As parents in Pembroke Pines look for engaging and educational activities to do with their preschoolers, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) activities offer a fantastic way to inspire curiosity and learning. Here are some fun and simple ~STEM activities~ that you can do at home with your preschooler to foster their love for these subjects.

1. Simple Science Experiments

Activity: Baking Soda and Vinegar Volcano

• Materials: Baking soda, vinegar, food coloring, a small plastic bottle.
• Instructions: Fill the bottle halfway with vinegar, add a few drops of food coloring, and place it in a baking dish. Add a spoonful of baking soda and watch the "lava" erupt!

Benefits: This experiment teaches children about chemical reactions in a fun and visually exciting way.

2. Technology Time

Activity: Coding Games with ScratchJr

• Materials: Tablet or computer, ScratchJr app.
• Instructions: Download ScratchJr, a free coding app for young children. Guide your child through creating simple stories and games using the app’s intuitive drag-and-drop interface.

Benefits: Introduces basic coding concepts and enhances problem-solving skills.

3. Engineering Exploration

Activity: Building Structures with Marshmallows and Toothpicks

• Materials: Marshmallows, toothpicks.
• Instructions: Challenge your child to build different structures, like bridges or towers, using marshmallows and toothpicks. Discuss which shapes make the strongest structures.

Benefits: Develops fine motor skills and introduces basic engineering principles.

4. Mathematics Fun

Activity: Counting and Sorting with Everyday Objects

• Materials: Coins, buttons, or any small objects.
• Instructions: Have your child count and sort the objects by size, color, or type. You can also practice simple addition and subtraction with these items.

Benefits: Reinforces counting, sorting, and basic arithmetic skills.
Also read: ~STEM Activities~ ~for Toddlers at Nowtech Academy in Pembroke Pines~

FAQs

Q: What are some easy science experiments to do at home with preschoolers in Pembroke Pines?A: Simple experiments like the baking soda and vinegar volcano, rainbow milk (using milk, food coloring, and dish soap), and growing a bean in a bag are great for young children. They are safe, easy to set up, and visually engaging.
Q: Are there any educational apps suitable for preschoolers?
A: Yes, apps like ScratchJr for coding, ABCmouse for a range of subjects, and Starfall for reading and math are excellent for preschoolers. These apps are designed to be intuitive and educational.
Q: How can I introduce engineering concepts to my preschooler?
A: You can introduce engineering concepts through building activities. Use materials like LEGO blocks, marshmallows, and toothpicks to build structures. Discuss how different shapes and designs affect the strength and stability of these structures.
Q: What math activities can I do with my preschooler at home?
A: Counting and sorting everyday objects, playing with number puzzles, and using counting books are great ways to make math fun and engaging for preschoolers.

Conclusion

Incorporating STEM activities into your preschooler's daily routine can be both fun and educational. These activities not only keep your child engaged but also lay a strong foundation for future learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Enjoy these activities at home in Pembroke Pines and watch your child's curiosity and skills grow!
Nowtech Academy- ~A~ ~preschool in Pembroke Pines~
Ready to give your child a head start in STEM education? ~Enroll today at Nowtech Academy Preschool in Pembroke Pines~, where our innovative curriculum fosters a love for learning and prepares your child for future success. ~Contact us now~ to ~schedule a tour~ and discover the difference a quality preschool can make!

TLDR: My first attempt of OLC was CM with a successful clear, why do a bunch of previous posts say to do weeks of practice before even attempting CM Strikes?
Today I joined an Old Lions Court (OLC) strike just to try it, my 2nd day of doing strikes (only did Eye of the North ones yesterday), my first day doing OLC. I didn't know what CM meant, so I joined an almost full party that was requesting DPS for the daily strike with a CM and EXP tag. I was told that the strikes were pretty simple, as long as you watched a video on the mechanics, so I decided to wing it in an EXP group after watching one. The video didn't go over the CM aspects, but luckily other than the mechanics being more punishing if you fail them, the only addition is that the phase 2 puzzle starts at the beginning and it's not a static order. (from my basic understanding)
When it started I was honestly terrified, I didn't even realize there were Challenge Motes in Strikes and clicked the green arrow without thinking, as I haven't interacted with the mechanic in anything other than the story mode for achievements. I had no idea that Phase 2 started immediately so it was a pretty big jumpscare at the start. But I assumed I just read the guide wrong and followed the rest of the team to cc the correct boss each time it came up. I did end up going downstate 1 time near the end during green pull mechanic, and I was slow on getting the red circle out of the group and clipped 2 people with it at least once probably twice.
All this just to ask, if I'm a mediocre player, with almost no knowledge, and I can get through it first time (admittedly while being hard carried from a knowledge standpoint at the very least) should I care about all the previous reddit posts that I came across after the fact saying "run the normal Strike x times and do a bunch of training lobbies before you even think of touching CM"? Or was this just a case of 9 omega good players and I was along for the ride.
And, whether the answer is yes or no, does this extend to other CM content? As I found CM OLC much more fun than all of the normal Eye of the North Strikes because it forced you to do something other than just DPS race and ignore 90% of the fight mechanics.

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Welcome to the Reverse: 1999 Daily Questions Megathread!

Please use this thread to ask any general inquiries about Reverse: 1999. Also, kindly search keywords under this thread as your questions may have already been answered by other Timekeepers.
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Q1. Should I re-roll?

• This depends on how much time you have to dedicate to re-rolling. In general, all three of the beginner banner characters are great, and you have options of doing shortelonger re-rolls, as per this guide.

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• Do not buy the 5-star psychubes, as we will eventually get enough 6-stars.
• Prioritization order:

1. LF Polarization
2. Englighten I
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Q10. What should I prioritize in the Oneric Shop (Oneric Fluid)?

• Prioritization order:

1. Monthy Brief Cacophony
2. Crystal Casket
3. Permanent Brief Cacophony (or Moment of Dissonance to craft Brief Cacophony if needed)
4. Sonorous Knell

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Currently, getting to Towson by the 51 takes about 45 min, and the Green route takes almost an hour! Both buses make a plethora of stops along the way, with 51 snaking through Rodgers Forge/GBMC and the Green going all the way out to City College/Loch Raven Blvd. I don't have an issue with these routes and understand people rely on them for daily commuting and do not wish them to be altered.
That said, given Towson's reputation as a college town with students who don't bring cars (source: I was one), getting to Downtown by city bus was always daunting and slow. Now that I've lived in the city for several years, I find getting to Towson and back takes at least a half day for a round trip + visit even with my better understanding of the routes and use of the Transit app to track active buses. My friends poke fun at the travel time and tell me just get a car to which I have nothing to come back with as justifying an hour to go less than 10 miles is a hard sell. I don't have this issue with other locales, as even the metro and light rail can take you to OM/HV, which are both further away, in less time than an optimized Towson trip.
What puzzles me is you can hop on the 120 to get from Downtown to White Marsh Park & Ride via 95 easily during the week- why isn't there one that departs from the Harbor and takes 83 to the mall/circle area? It feels like a strange decision considering how they're both business/residential/transit hubs that offer different things.
PS I know the rail project would do this, but I was wondering why it hasn't been a thing? And before someone points it out, I'm in support of branching out to neighborhoods that lack transit but don't see why an Express Towson route couldn't be done alongside them given the opportunities fast travel could open up.

Discuss today's puzzle and share your solutions here!

1) Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?

• This will be my first time raising a dog completely by myself, but I've been around dogs (helped train and care for Bichons, a Poodle, and later Doodle mixes in my family, and I've dogsat a Husky, a Pom, and a Shiba Inu).

2) Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a reputable breeder?

• I want to rescue, but I do have some concerns as I have two cats and I am a bit worried about the unpredictability of a shelter dog. I'm also considering trying to adopt a retired show or breeding dog instead of a puppy.

3) Describe your ideal dog.

• I would love to take my dog out for around 3-4 hours every weekday for walks, jogs, short hikes, frisbee, training, etc. On weekends I'm hoping to take my dog on long hikes and places where they can really run and stretch off-leash. I also want to take weekly classes in either agility or disc sports. I am looking for a dog that is highly eager to please, and essentially becomes my second shadow. A little goofy/crazy (not neurotic). I'd like this dog to mostly take over my life, aside from my cats.

4) What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?

• Silken Windhounds seem to fit the "bundle of energy but also a couch potato" bill, while also being a bit more biddable and better off leash than a greyhound.
• Dalmatians have come up quite a lot, though I don't yet know much about them.
• Herding breeds like the Belgian/Swiss/Dutch/etc. Shepherd/Border Collies/Mudi have come up a lot, especially for sports and obedience.
  • I really love Belgian Shepherds (all 4) but I see some mixed experiences as to how much is really efficient physical/mental stimulation for them. I am aware of their mouthiness, the extreme needs, the 2-year old on cocaine aspects. I am ok with this, but feel free to let me know if my answers tell you I can't feasibly provide for them.
• I've also been looking at Smooth/Rough Collies recently and they seem like they might be a bit milder once it's time to relax.

5) What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?

• Advanced obedience, disc catching or frisbee (maybe up to the dog?), recall, fun tricks.

6) Do you want to compete with your dog in a sport (e.g. agility, obedience, rally) or use your dog for a form of work (e.g. hunting, herding, livestock guarding)? If so, how much experience do you have with this work/sport?

• Not really. I want to take proper lessons/classes on a weekly basis, but don't think I want to compete.

Care Commitments
7) How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?

• Training: around 1 hour a day, split into 2-3 sessions
• Playing: 1 hour or so of fetch/frisbee outdoors. Incase dog parks are not a possibility, I have also looked into rentable fenced in areas that I might be able to use daily in the mornings. I found a site called Sniffspot that seems like it might work as a way to "rent a yard" for an hour everyday. Also another 30~60min playing at home.
• Walking/Jogging: at least 2-3 hours a day. Those may all need to be on leash though, as the off-leash parks and trails would be a bit outside the city.
• For when I'm not home, I'd like to either take the dog to doggy daycare or have a walker come. I think this depends on the breed/individual dog, as I know some of these breeds tend to do better than others.
• If I go the dog walker route, or even just when I'm home but busy, I plan to have a lot of snuff matts and puzzles, and chew toys to rotate around. If I have a dog walker come I'd have them rotate something new in when they leave.

8) How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average? What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?
see above
9) How much regular brushing are you willing to do? Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home? If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?

• I clean ears eyes and teeth everyday for my cats, so I'd do the same for my pup. If there's anything I feel uncomfortable with then I'll happily leave it to a professional.

Personal Preferences
10) What size dog are you looking for?

• Medium to Large. I'm thinking 45-90 lbs.

11) How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?

• Shedding/extra grooming is fine; not keen on slobber. Occasional barks when someone rings the doorbell or when I get home should be fine, but excessive barking may cause issues with the neighbors.

12) How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?

• Very important.

Dog Personality and Behavior
13) Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?

• Snuggly is a big plus, but not a necessity.

14) Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?

• Very eager to please.

15) How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard? How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?

• This doesn't really matter to me.

16) Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?

• Preferably no. I am happy to pass on dog parks and doggy daycare but living in the city there will always be dogs coming up to us and it's not very avoidable.

17) Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?

• I think this is implied already but just concerns with the cats.

Lifestyle
18) How often and how long will the dog be left alone?

• 4-5 days a week for about 7-8 hours a day. I likely can run home to walk the dog during lunch. If not then a dogwalker or daycare.
• I'm aware highly active breeds can do ok in an apartment but wondering if the apartment + time alone is too much.

19) What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog?

• It's just me.

20) Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets? What breed or type of animal are they?

• 2 Cats, (Bengals).

21) Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?

• No.

22) Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?

• I will rent. I'm willing to deal with the inconvenience and I won't be moving in unless the breeds I'm interested in are all given an OK.

23) What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?

• I'd like to be in Chicago or Boston in 2025, which both have none right now.

24) What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?

• Winter low of 22°F to a summer high of 82°F.

I know there's no perfect dog, but I'm curious to hear what experiences and advice others have with the breeds I have listed or any others! Big big thank you to anyone who read all or any of this!

Hey, could you help me identify if there is a dog which would suit with my current environment and lifestyle? Thank you!
Introduction
1) Will this be your first dog? If not, what experience do you have owning/training dogs?
It will be my first, I've never owned a dog before.
2) Do you have a preference for rescuing a dog vs. going through a reputable breeder)?
I'm leaning towards finding a good breeder, to get as much info as possible about the background of the dog (including health) and be able to ask the breeder for advice as well in case needed in raising the dog.
3) Describe your ideal dog.
A moderately active companion, social and loyal to me. With a generally 'interested in life and things' disposition, likes activities, going on walks and the occasional forest stroll. But should also be able to relax at home. Trainable, but I don't mind them having a bit of a stubborn personality. Smallish, because I live in an apartment. Should be trainable to be alone some part of the day.
4) What breeds or types of dogs are you interested in and why?
I've been looking at the wire-haired dachsund (standard or mini), because I think I would like their temperament. Appearance-wise I like wire-haired or similar dogs - with a bit of a 'rough' look, not too sweet. I've also thought of the miniature schnauzer and the west highland white terrier, however I think westies are a bit too cute for my taste.
5) What sorts of things would you like to train your dog to do?
Basic training like sitting, walking, maybe rolling over etc. I'm more interested in offering the dog intellectual activity and excitement, rather than teaching them to do tricks just for the sake of it. I'd like to buy them interesting puzzle-like toys and take them on walks to interesting places and let them sniff around.
6) Do you want to compete with your dog in a sport (e.g. agility, obedience, rally) or use your dog for a form of work (e.g. hunting, herding, livestock guarding)? If so, how much experience do you have with this work/sport?
No competing nor working.
Care Commitments
7) How long do you want to devote to training, playing with, or otherwise interacting with your dog each day?
1-2 hours, more on weekends (longer walks etc). I'd like to take my dog with me to places, sometimes to work or to events or cafes where dogs are aloud (but which wouldn't be too busy and stressful for the dog, I'd be mindful of that).
8) How long can you exercise your dog each day, on average? What sorts of exercise are you planning to give your dog regularly and does that include using a dog park?
1-1,5 hours of walking total on weekdays (2-4 separate walks I think). Also I would play with them with toys either indoors or outdoors during the walk or in the small garden of my apartment building. I would occasionally also visit a dog park which is near. I wouldn't mind socializing them with other dogs.
9) How much regular brushing are you willing to do? Are you open to trimming hair, cleaning ears, or doing other grooming at home? If not, would you be willing to pay a professional to do it regularly?
I'm thinking I could brush once a week, as well as do other smaller necessary grooming like clipping nails, cleaning ears etc. If needed, I would be willing to pay a professional, but not too often. A dog needing very frequent/extensive hair grooming would not be for me.
Personal Preferences
10) What size dog are you looking for?
Small or smaller medium.
11) How much shedding, barking, and slobber can you handle?
Shedding - little to moderately. Barking - better less because of the apartment thing, however I know that dachshunds which I've been looking at tend to bark. Slobber - less is better.
12) How important is being able to let your dog off-leash in an unfenced area?
It would be cool to let them loose on a forest walk and I'd be willing to do extra training for that, but not a dealbreaker if can't do it.
Dog Personality and Behavior
13) Do you want a snuggly dog or one that prefers some personal space?
I would like if they generally wanted to hang close to me, but they don't have to be attached to me all the time.
14) Would you prefer a dog that wants to do its own thing or one that’s more eager-to-please?
A healthy mix of both.
15) How would you prefer your dog to respond to someone knocking on the door or entering your yard? How would you prefer your dog to greet strangers or visitors?
Some initial barking would be okay. Definitely wouldn't want them to be aggressive. I'd like them to be generally friendly, but they don't have to be all over every stranger from the first moment. It's fine though also if they are really friendly, since they wouldn't be a guarding dog.
16) Are you willing to manage a dog that is aggressive to other dogs?
Since I'd like a smaller dog, then I think a little bit of agression I could handle, but not too much really. I'd like to socialize and train them from the beginning to be okay with other dogs.
17) Are there any other behaviors you can’t deal with or want to avoid?
Excessive chewing or scratching or destroying furniture would be a problem (some is inevitable however probably). But a bigger chewing/destroying problem should be able to be prevented with training, I hope.
Lifestyle
18) How often and how long will the dog be left alone?
Daily, since I live alone and work a 9-5, but my work is flexible and I would work out a plan with a mix of days in a week: on some days taking the dog to work with me (office type job), on some days working the morning from home and going to the office after lunch (dog is alone at home for 6 hours), on some days vice versa. About 1 day/week would be full home office.
19) What are the dog-related preferences of other people in the house and what will be their involvement in caring for the dog?
No other people besides me in my home. I would however make agreements with atleast 3 other people who could dog-sit when necessary.
20) Do you have other pets or are you planning on having other pets? What breed or type of animal are they?
No other pets.
21) Will the dog be interacting with children regularly?
Not children, but there are many teenagers ages 16+ where I work. There might be moments of interaction and definitely passing by some groups of people, but I wouldn't let the teens play with the dog necessarily, atleast not in large amounts.
22) Do you rent or plan to rent in the future? If applicable, what breed or weight restrictions are on your current lease?
I am currently renting. To get the dog, I would either make an agreement with my current landlord or move to another apartment where dogs are aloud.
23) What city or country do you live in and are you aware of any laws banning certain breeds?
Europe. I don't think any breeds are banned in my country, but if there are, these would be breeds I probably wouldn't want to have anyway (agressive breeds, breeds with extreme health issues).
24) What is the average temperature of a typical summer and winter day where you live?
Summer: 27°C/77°F, winter: -15°C/5°F. Does sway either way.
Additional Information and Questions
25) Please provide any additional information you feel may be relevant.
No additional information.
26) Feel free to ask any questions below.
No other questions, I think. Thank you!

I volunteer for a non-profit organization dedicated to creating a more accessible world for people with disabilities. We believe that everyone, regardless of their limitations, should have the opportunity to live independent and fulfilling lives.
I invite you to share the accessibility challenges you or someone you know faces in daily life. These challenges can range from simple tasks like eating or dressing to more complex activities like transportation or communication. By sharing your experiences, you can help us identify areas where we can develop creative solutions that make a real difference in people's lives.
Also, I encourage you to visit the organization’s website, where you might find a solution that suits you. On the site, under Projects, you can find 3D printable files and DIY guides.
https://tomglobal.org/search

Why was there a puzzle that locks you into the playroom until you solved it? I understand that these are a common element in Mascot Horror games but the in-universe reason is perplexing. Was it like an daily thing where the kids had to solve the puzzle in like 5 to 10 minutes using the clues on the wall but the staff would release them anyway if they hadn't solved it by that point?

I've released a tracking spreadsheet for my long running, daily Sudoku Adventure series, which has as of right now 491 (mostly) 6x6 variant Sudoku puzzles set by ~40 different setters, with a new one automatically added per day. Previously, the only way to access these puzzles was via my YouTube channel! Each puzzle comes with an online solve link (via Sven's SudokuPad) and a link to a walkthrough solve video. The spreadsheet also has several features to help you track your progress and gather statistics.
You can find it here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1y4BYBEuXbzReb_tx3bTUdKwynL2JveL3ob55g6c-D-Y/edit?usp=sharing
Enjoy!

Making Cricut wood projects because they are eco-friendly has always been my first preference. Whether it is balsa wood, basswood, or chipboard, Cricut has many robust machines that cut these materials precisely. Since the day I got my Cricut Maker, I have been very excited as I bought it to create various wooden-based projects. I have been wanting to make them for a long time.
When I finally got it, it was like a dream come true. The most exciting part was working on ideas. I got the help of my friend John, who is into fine arts. Since he is an expert in designing things, I reached out to him and asked him to design the project I wanted.
He was amazing and did his work nicely, but designing it on Cricut Design Space was not his cup of tea. So, I took charge of it. Without any further delay, let’s explore these projects.

• Photo Puzzle
• Want something to play with? Try this photo puzzle and give it to your children. With this puzzle, you can cherish your memories or family pictures for fun. To create it, you will need to open the puzzle pieces. After that, use printable vinyl to print the photo and apply it to a heavy chipboard.

And what about machines? Well, it has always been my trusty Cricut Maker, and I have always preferred it for my Cricut wood projects.

• Earrings
• Fed up with metallic earrings, my mom asked me to make her a wooden earring. I took the challenge and started working on it. I used veneer wood, as I liked its texture so much.

Moreover, it was easy to make; there was nothing I had to put a lot of effort into, meaning it was beginner-friendly. Regarding the accessories, you will need a basic set of Cricut tools along with a Cricut deep-point blade. In addition to this, you will need cardstock, earrings, hooks, and glue to do it!

• Coasters
• I love personalized crafts, so I made these beautiful coasters. They will help keep my table surfaces free from unwanted liquid stains. The more beautiful the design, the more wow reactions you will receive from your guests.

For Cricut wood projects like coasters, you will create a monogram or any pattern that you want on your coaster. Start creating the design on your Cricut Design Space, and let your creation spread like magic.

• Home Sign

The home sign is the best home decor that I have created so far. Once a year, I always make a new home sign with a new, unique design. This ingenious design can be changed with every season. However, you can use any wood that you think will fit right for it. I love creating such crafts, especially with wood, so you can start making them as soon as possible.

• Desk Organizer

With many incredible tools, such as a Cricut cutting machine, you can make fantastic, useful Cricut wood projects, like desk organizers. You can also keep things like pens or other Cricut accessories. With Cricut Maker, you can cut your wooden pieces into different shapes and sizes. The blade I have used in this project is a knife blade. However, the key materials are the Cricut StrongGrip mat, Standard Grip mat, masking tape, and fusible fabric.

• Jewelry Tray

Nobody wants to lose their precious jewelry; hence, it requires a box in which it can be kept safe for a long time. This personalized tray can hold all types of jewelry and can also be used to gift jewelry. The hexagonal design of this box gives it a unique look. Also, inside the box, I used an engraving tool to engrave a single pattern.

• Garden Signs

If you are looking for some Cricut wood projects for your garden, look no further than this garden sign. I made this beautiful-looking garden sign at my granny’s request. Yes, she is a passionate gardener, and she loves doing it. So, once a day, she requested that I make something for her garden. The herb will get a call out with this sign made using basswood.

FAQs

Question 1: Where to buy wood for Cricut projects?

Answer: Wood is available for your Cricut projects just a few clicks away. Popular e-commerce websites like Amazon, Etsy, Walmart, and Cricut’s platform offer a wide range of wood types. If you choose to buy from Cricut, you’ll even find wood specifically designed for your machine, such as the Cricut Maker-compatible Natural Wood Veneer - Cherry.

Question 2: What can I make for Cricut balsa wood projects?

Answer: The list of Cricut wood projects is endless, and you need to find only the best projects that you want to make. Below, I have mentioned some of the common projects that you can make using balsa wood:

1. Name puzzle
2. Home sign
3. Earrings
4. Coasters
5. Shadowbox
6. Ornaments

Question 3: Which Cricut machine is the best for cutting wood?

Answer: To cut the wood, you will need a robust Cricut machine. Hence, Cricut Maker is the perfect fit for crafters who want to make something out of wood. Whether it is balsa wood, chipboard, or basswood, it can cut everything up to 2.4 mm thickness.
Source: Cricut wood projects
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In the small town of Wolf's Hollow, the residents whispered of ancient secrets hidden in the dense, shadowy forests. Legends spoke of werewolves, but not the kind that transformed under the pull of the full moon. No, these werewolves could shift their forms at will, and they came in two distinct kinds: the benevolent Protectors and the malevolent Ravagers.
For centuries, the myth of the full moon had been spread by the Protectors to mask their true nature and keep the balance of power hidden from humanity. But now, the truth was on the brink of being exposed.
Draco had always felt a strange connection to the forest, a pull he couldn't explain. His grandmother, known in the town as a wise old herbalist, had entrusted him to her best friend Ahmad when Draco was just seven months old. Ahmad, a man of great wisdom and skill, had raised Draco, teaching him diplomacy, martial arts, self-defense, and all the science known to the world at that time. Draco had grown up believing his real family had died in an accident, knowing nothing of his true heritage.
One night, while wandering the outskirts of the forest, Draco heard a low growl. He turned to see a pair of glowing eyes watching him from the shadows. Instead of running, he felt an odd sense of calm. The eyes belonged to a large, silver-furred wolf, its demeanor gentle yet powerful. As it stepped into the moonlight, its form shimmered, and in a heartbeat, the wolf transformed into a tall man with kind eyes and an air of ancient wisdom.
"Do not be afraid," he said softly. "I am Lucian, one of the Protectors. You are in danger, Draco. The Ravagers have discovered who you are."
"Who I am?" Draco repeated, his voice trembling. "What do you mean?"
Lucian explained that Draco was a descendant of a long line of Protectors, and his latent abilities were beginning to awaken. The Ravagers, sensing his emerging power, sought to corrupt or destroy him to tip the balance in their favor.
As if on cue, a chilling howl echoed through the night. Lucian's expression darkened. "They're coming. We must move quickly."
They ran deeper into the forest, the howls growing louder and more menacing. Draco's heart pounded in his chest as they reached a hidden glade, illuminated by the faint glow of bioluminescent plants. Here, Lucian stopped and turned to face him.
"Draco, you have the power to choose your path," he said urgently. "You can embrace your heritage as a Protector and help us defend Wolf's Hollow, or you can walk away and let the Ravagers bring chaos and destruction."
Before he could respond, the Ravagers burst into the glade. Leading them was Kieran, a dark-haired werewolf with a cruel smile. His followers, all in wolf form, surrounded Lucian and Draco, their eyes gleaming with malice.
"So, the lost son of the Protectors has finally surfaced," Kieran sneered. "Join us, Draco. Embrace your true nature. Why fight for a town that would never accept you if they knew what you really are?"
Draco's mind raced. He looked at Lucian, then at Kieran, and finally back at the town he had called home his entire life. The teachings of Ahmad echoed in his ears, tales of heroism and sacrifice.
With a deep breath, Draco stepped forward, his eyes meeting Kieran's. "I choose to protect," he said firmly, feeling a surge of power within him.
Kieran's smile faded, replaced by a snarl. "So be it," he growled.
The battle was fierce, but with Lucian by his side, Draco fought with a newfound strength. He felt his body shifting, the power of the Protector lineage coursing through his veins. In the end, the Ravagers retreated, vowing to return.
Breathing heavily, Draco turned to Lucian. "This is only the beginning, isn't it?"
Lucian nodded. "Yes, but together, we can ensure that the light of the Protectors never fades."
And so, under the stars, with the myth of the full moon shattered, Draco embraced his destiny as a Protector of Wolf's Hollow, ready to face whatever darkness lay ahead.
After their narrow escape from the Ravagers, Draco and Lucian sought refuge in the hidden hideout of the Protectors. Tucked away deep within the heart of the forest, it was a sanctuary cloaked in secrecy, where the light of civilization dared not penetrate. Here, amidst the shadows and whispers of the trees, they hoped to regroup and plan their next move.
As they entered the dimly lit chamber, Draco couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. He scanned the room, his senses on high alert, until his gaze settled on a darkened corner where the light of the lamp failed to reach. Two red eyes gleamed from the darkness, and a voice, deep and resonant, echoed through the room.
"Are you ready to learn the ways of the Protectors?"
Draco nodded, his curiosity piqued. As the figure emerged from the shadows, he recognized the commanding presence of Ahmad, the Alpha werewolf and brother of Draco's late mother. Ahmad's age was evident in the lines etched upon his weathered face, a testament to the countless battles he had fought and the wisdom he had gained over the years.
For centuries, the power of Alpha had been passed down through generations, but now, as Ahmad explained, Draco stood on the cusp of something unprecedented. A true Alpha, born not from lineage but from sheer will and strength of character, destined to lead the Protectors into a new era.
Draco's training intensified under Ahmad's guidance. For fourteen years, he honed his skills, mastering the art of combat and strategy, all the while relentlessly pursuing the Ravagers who threatened their existence. With each victory, Draco felt the power within him grow, a primal force waiting to be unleashed.
But as Draco's strength grew, so did the desperation of their enemies. Kieran, the cunning leader of the Ravagers, launched a relentless assault, targeting Ahmad in a brazen attempt to cripple the Protectors. In a fierce battle that shook the very foundations of their hideout, Kieran struck a fatal blow, leaving Ahmad gravely wounded.
As Ahmad lay dying in Draco's arms, a surge of energy pulsed through him, a force unlike anything he had ever felt before. It was then that he realized the truth: the power of Alpha was not bound by bloodline but by destiny, and Ahmad had chosen Draco as his successor.
With his last breath, Ahmad passed on his Alpha powers to Draco, infusing him with the strength and authority of a True Alpha. In that moment, Draco transcended his mortal limitations, his spirit ascending to a higher plane of existence.
With Ahmad's legacy coursing through his veins, Draco confronted Kieran with a newfound determination. Their final battle raged on, a clash of titans that echoed through the forest, until at last, Draco emerged victorious, his enemies vanquished and his destiny fulfilled.
As the new Supreme Alpha, Draco stood tall amidst the ruins of their battleground, his voice resonating with power as he commanded the loyalty of all werewolves who pledged allegiance to the Protectors. With Ahmad's guidance and Lucian's unwavering support, he would lead his pack into a future filled with hope and unity, a beacon of light in the darkness that threatened to consume them all.
And so, with the rise of the Supreme Alpha, the legend of Draco Al Dragoon was born, a symbol of strength, courage, and the indomitable spirit of the Protectors. In the annals of history, his name would be etched in stone, a testament to the enduring power of the human will to defy fate and forge a path toward a brighter tomorrow.
Long before the time of Draco Al Dragoon, there existed a legendary figure whose name was whispered in awe and reverence: Abdul Mateen, the Holy Monarch. In an age shrouded in darkness and chaos, he rose from humble beginnings to become a beacon of hope for his people.
Abdul Mateen was born into a world torn apart by war and strife. His homeland, known as Draconia, was besieged by darkness, its lands ruled by fear and tyranny. From a young age, Abdul Mateen witnessed the suffering of his people, the oppression and injustice that plagued their lives.
Driven by a deep sense of justice and righteousness, Abdul Mateen vowed to bring an end to the reign of evil that held his land captive. With unwavering determination and boundless courage, he embarked on a quest to unite the scattered tribes of Draconia under his banner, rallying them to fight for freedom and liberation.
Through countless battles and trials, Abdul Mateen proved himself to be a formidable warrior and a wise leader. His charisma and conviction inspired legions to join his cause, swelling his ranks with warriors from all walks of life. Together, they marched against the forces of darkness, confronting evil wherever it lurked and vanquishing it with righteous fury.
But Abdul Mateen's quest for justice did not end with the defeat of his enemies. With victory within his grasp, he ascended to the throne as the Holy Monarch of Draconia, ushering in an era of peace and prosperity for his people. Under his rule, the land flourished, its people united in purpose and harmony.
Yet, peace was not to last. In the shadows, a new threat loomed, a sinister force bent on revenge and destruction. A beta werewolf, descended from the lineage of Keiran, harbored a deep-seated hatred for Abdul Mateen and his legacy. In a cowardly act of treachery, he struck down the Holy Monarch, ending his life and plunging Draconia into mourning.
But even in death, Abdul Mateen's spirit endured, his legacy living on in the hearts of his people. His sacrifice became a rallying cry for justice and freedom, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the light of hope would never be extinguished.
And so, as the ages passed and new heroes arose, the legend of Abdul Mateen lived on, a testament to the power of courage, compassion, and the enduring spirit of those who dare to stand against the tide of darkness and forge a path toward a brighter tomorrow.
As the empire of Draconia crumbled in the wake of Abdul Mateen's death, chaos engulfed the land, leaving it vulnerable to the machinations of the Ravagers who sought to claim the throne for themselves. But amidst the turmoil, a glimmer of hope emerged from the ashes of despair.
In the sacred texts known as the Gospel of Abdul Mateen, a prophecy foretold of a Holy Monarch who would rise to lead the people in their darkest hour. Descended from the noble lineage of the legendary monarch himself, this chosen one would wield the power of a super strong Alpha, feared by all who dared to oppose him.
For generations, the Protectors guarded the teachings of the Gospel, keeping the prophecy alive through their unwavering faith and dedication. They knew that one day, the chosen one would emerge to fulfill his destiny and restore balance to the land.
And so, as the dark ages threatened to descend once more, the Protectors remained vigilant, their faith unshaken by the encroaching shadows. They knew that the darkness could only prevail if the people turned away from the worship and remembrance of the divine.
As whispers of unrest echoed through the land and the Ravagers grew bolder in their ambitions, the stage was set for the arrival of the chosen one, the Holy Monarch who would rise to reclaim his birthright and usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for Draconia.
But his path would not be easy, for the forces of darkness would stop at nothing to thwart his destiny. Only through courage, faith, and unwavering determination would the chosen one overcome the trials that lay ahead and fulfill the prophecy of Abdul Mateen, the Holy Monarch of legend.
In the sprawling land of Draconia, a land rich with diverse ecosystems ranging from the towering mountains in the north to the vast plains, dense forests, scorching deserts, and boundless oceans, a new chapter of darkness was about to unfold.
Centuries had passed since Draco, the immortal True Alpha, had vanquished Kieran, the malevolent leader of the Ravagers. After the battle, Draco had retreated into the deep recesses of the northern mountains, choosing solitude over the limelight, leaving the Protectors to continue their noble mission. Over time, Draco's legend faded into mere folklore among the Protectors, and his name was whispered only in tales of old.
The northern mountains, a region long believed to be inhospitable and devoid of life, held secrets that few in Draconia could fathom. Hidden within their massive peaks lived the descendants of Azma Al Dragoon, a Holy Monarch akin to Abdul Mateen. Unlike Abdul Mateen's empire, which spanned the east, west, and south, Azma's dominion was confined to the north, as decreed by divine command. Her lineage was blessed with the extraordinary gift of voice command over all living beings, including dragons, unicorns, and even vampires.
In the present day, the Al Dragoon empire was ruled by the grandson of Draco's younger sister. Unlike his forebears, this monarch was neither pious nor righteous. He harbored ambitions that defied the sacred Gospel of Azma, which sternly warned against expanding the empire beyond the northern mountains. Driven by arrogance and a misguided sense of superiority due to his high-altitude dominion, he decided to conquer all of Draconia.
With the power of voice command, he enslaved the Protectors, forcing them to turn against their own. The once-guardians of peace and justice became unwilling instruments of tyranny, carrying out the young monarch's brutal campaign. In a mere seven months, the entirety of Draconia fell under his iron fist, its diverse landscapes unified under a reign of fear and oppression.
As the flames of conquest spread across the land, the ancient prophecies of Abdul Mateen and the Gospel of Azma weighed heavily on the hearts of the oppressed. The true believers whispered of a destined hero who would rise to restore balance and justice. The legend of Draco, the True Alpha, once a fading memory, began to rekindle in the hearts of those who still held hope.
Deep within the northern mountains, Draco stirred from his long isolation, sensing the turmoil and suffering that plagued Draconia. The time had come for the prophecy to be fulfilled, for the Holy Monarch to rise again and lead the people out of darkness. Draco, the immortal protector, would reclaim his legacy and confront the usurper who had dared to defy the divine decrees.
With the land of Draconia on the brink of an all-encompassing darkness, a new chapter of legend was about to begin, one that would see the return of a forgotten hero and the fulfillment of a destiny written in the stars.
In the quiet seclusion of the northern mountains, Draco grappled with his newfound powers and the immense responsibility they carried. He feared that the voice command, a power capable of influencing all living beings, might corrupt him and turn his strength against the very people he sought to protect. In his despair, Draco prayed fervently to God, seeking guidance and reassurance. For days, he prayed without rest, his pleas met with silence. Exhausted and weary, he finally succumbed to sleep.
In his dreams, Draco found himself in a tranquil garden, surrounded by lush greenery and ripened fruits. As he enjoyed the serenity, a divine light enveloped the sky, and a powerful voice resonated through the air. "Go to the house of the late Ahmad," it commanded. "In the basement, you will find a scroll that will reveal the truth."
Awakening with newfound purpose, Draco journeyed to the old, abandoned home of Ahmad, the man who had raised him and trained him. In the basement, he discovered a hidden scroll. With trembling hands, he unrolled the ancient parchment and began to read.
"Dear Draco,
This is your uncle Ahmad. Yes, I am your mother's brother. Your father did not die in an accident. Your grandmother entrusted me with you because you are the son of Malik Al Dragoon and an Alpha werewolf, my sister. You are a hybrid, possessing the voice command as a descendant of Azma Al Dragoon and Abdul Mateen. Your strong aura signified you as a true Alpha, but your grandmother sealed your voice command to prevent a werewolf from ruling the Al Dragoon empire.
Now, you are the Supreme Alpha, the werewolf promised by God to become the Holy Monarch. To claim your voice command, you must venture to the maze of the mountains at the start of the Northern range.
With love and faith,
Ahmad"
Determined to fulfill his destiny, Draco set off for the maze of the mountains. The journey was perilous, but Draco's resolve was unwavering. He navigated the labyrinthine paths with skill and determination, eventually arriving at the heart of the maze, where he encountered a formidable black dragon known as Golden Fury, the mightiest of all Draconian creatures.
The battle was fierce and brutal. Draco fought valiantly, sustaining severe injuries, but his strength as the Supreme Alpha allowed him to heal rapidly. Summoning his inner power, he finally vanquished the dragon. As the beast lay defeated, Draco approached a glowing glass bottle. When he opened it, a brilliant light surged into his throat, causing him to choke and collapse.
In a dreamlike state, Draco found himself face to face with the Emperor of Al Dragoon. The emperor's eyes burned with hatred as he declared, "I'll find and kill you. You now possess the voice command, so I can't control you, but I'll find and kill you."
Draco awoke with a start, his resolve hardened. He journeyed to the town of the Protectors and, with a mighty roar, summoned them. The Protectors, now a formidable force of 150,000 strong, ceased their activities and gathered around him. Their leader, Ameen, approached, awestruck.
"Who are you?" Ameen asked, his voice trembling with reverence.
"I am Draco," he declared, "the True Alpha and descendant of Abdul Mateen and Azma Al Dragoon."
The Protectors fell to their knees, apologizing for their actions under the influence of the voice command.
"Do not apologize," Draco said, his voice strong and compassionate. "It was not you. It was the voice command."
Ameen, filled with awe and respect, responded, "We all thought you were a myth. We never expected to see you in our lifetime."
Draco nodded, understanding the weight of their words. "Myths become reality in times of great need," he said. "Now, we must prepare. The time has come to overthrow the tyrant emperor."
That night, the Protectors held a grand feast in honor of Draco. They celebrated his return and pledged their loyalty to his cause. With a vast army at his command, Draco began to devise a strategy to take down the usurper who had plunged Draconia into darkness. The prophecy of the Holy Monarch was unfolding, and the final battle for Draconia's future was about to begin.
As the Protectors feasted in honor of Draco's return, a palpable sense of hope and determination filled the air. Draco, now fully aware of his destiny, began to outline a comprehensive plan to reclaim Draconia from the tyrant emperor who ruled from the northern mountains.
For days, Draco and his closest advisors, including Ameen, strategized tirelessly. They knew that the emperor's power was formidable, bolstered by the voice command that allowed him to control vast numbers of beings. However, Draco's unique position as a Supreme Alpha with the same voice command powers gave them a fighting chance. His hybrid nature and immortal status made him a beacon of strength and resilience.
One night, as the moon cast a silver glow over the camp, Draco gathered the Protectors. "Our enemy is powerful," he began, his voice steady and commanding, "but he underestimates the strength of our unity and the righteousness of our cause. We fight not just for ourselves, but for all of Draconia."
The Protectors roared in approval, their spirits lifted by Draco's words. With their morale high, they set off towards the northern mountains, moving stealthily through the diverse terrains of Draconia. They traversed forests, crossed plains, and navigated deserts, their numbers growing as more people joined their cause, inspired by the legend of the Holy Monarch.
As they approached the foothills of the northern mountains, Draco called for a halt. It was here, in the shadow of the towering peaks, that they would face their greatest challenge. Draco knew that to defeat the emperor, he would need to draw on every ounce of his strength and the faith of his followers.
The night before the final confrontation, Draco retreated to a secluded spot to pray. He sought divine guidance, asking God for the strength to lead his people and the wisdom to use his powers justly. As he prayed, he felt a warm, comforting presence surround him, a reassurance that he was on the right path.
At dawn, the Protectors assembled at the base of the emperor's fortress, a massive stronghold carved into the mountainside. Draco stood at the forefront, his presence commanding and inspiring. With a roar that echoed through the mountains, he led the charge.
The battle was fierce and intense. The Protectors fought valiantly, their determination fueled by the righteousness of their cause. Draco, with his voice command and supreme alpha abilities, was a force to be reckoned with. He called forth dragons, unicorns, and other creatures, rallying them to their side.
Amidst the chaos, Draco faced the emperor in a final showdown. The emperor, confident in his power, sneered at Draco. "You think you can defeat me? I am the ruler of Draconia!"
Draco's eyes blazed with determination. "You are a usurper. The true ruler fights for the people, not against them."
The clash between them was monumental. The emperor, though powerful, was no match for Draco's combined strength and the divine favor that guided him. With a final, devastating blow, Draco defeated the emperor, ending his tyrannical reign.
As the emperor fell, the fortress walls seemed to shudder, and the oppressive atmosphere lifted. The Protectors cheered, their victory a testament to their unwavering faith and the fulfillment of the ancient prophecy.
With the emperor's defeat, Draco ascended to his rightful place as the Holy Monarch of Draconia. He pledged to rule with justice, compassion, and humility, honoring the legacy of Abdul Mateen and Azma Al Dragoon. Under his leadership, Draconia began to heal, its people united and hopeful for the future.
Draco's story, once a myth, became a legend etched in the annals of history. The land of Draconia, vast and diverse, thrived under his reign, a beacon of peace and prosperity in a world that had known too much darkness. And so, the prophecy was fulfilled, and the Holy Monarch brought light to Draconia once more.
In the years following his victory over the tyrant emperor, Draco ruled Draconia with wisdom and justice. His marriage to Alina brought him great joy, and together they had children who, to Draco's surprise, were entirely human. Puzzled, Draco turned to God for answers, praying fervently until one night, a divine light filled his dreams.
"Draco, my faithful servant," the voice of God spoke, "your children do not possess your powers because they do not need them. Your lineage has fulfilled its purpose, bringing peace and justice to Draconia. Your descendants will thrive as normal humans, living lives of love, compassion, and integrity. Their strength lies not in supernatural abilities, but in the goodness of their hearts. In due time, a boy from your firstborn son's line will inherit the powers you possess. Until then, trust in your family's strength and wisdom."
With this divine message, Draco found peace. He understood that his descendants would carry his legacy in their hearts, if not in their abilities. As the years passed, Draco watched his children and grandchildren grow. When Alina and their children aged and passed away, Draco felt the weight of his immortality.
The Protectors, too, began to age and die, their children inheriting their virtues but not their powers. Seeing the natural order of life take its course, Draco decided it was time for a new chapter. He named his firstborn son, a wise and just ruler, as the new monarch of Draconia.
Draco then gathered all the supernatural beings of Draconia—dragons, unicorns, vampires, and more—and led them to a vast underground cave, twice the size of Draconia itself. This hidden sanctuary became their new home, a place where they could live in peace away from the mortal world.
For a thousand years, Draco and the supernatural beings remained hidden. As generations passed, the people of Draconia began to forget about Draco and his legendary deeds. Two thousand years after his disappearance, the people of Draconia, now living in a democracy, revolted against Draco's descendants, seeking independence and self-governance.
By the early 3000s, the memory of Draco had faded into myth. Emerging from his underground sanctuary, Draco observed a changed world. He saw a society that had abandoned faith, turning to atheism and forgetting their divine heritage. Saddened by the state of the world, Draco decided to document his story.
Writing his tale in a book, Draco published it anonymously. The book, filled with the true history of Draconia, the legacy of Abdul Mateen, Azma Al Dragoon, and Draco himself, became a bestseller. People were captivated by the story of the immortal protector and the holy monarchs, though they believed it to be fiction.
Having shared his story with the world, Draco returned to his underground cave, content to live out his days among the supernatural beings. Though the world above had forgotten him, his legacy endured in the hearts of those who read his book.
Draco watched over his descendants from afar, knowing that one day, the prophecy would be fulfilled, and a boy from his firstborn son's line would inherit his powers. Until then, Draco lived peacefully, the eternal guardian of Draconia's true history, and the hope for a future where his legacy would rise again.
Stoic's reign of terror had reached a peak, and the people of Draconia were living in constant fear. Among the oppressed was a young boy named Aman, who had suffered greatly under Stoic's brutal rule. One day, unable to bear the torture any longer, Aman decided to flee, seeking refuge far from Stoic's clutches.
He ran for days, his feet bloodied and his body weakened, until he reached the base of a massive mountain—the forbidden mountain that no one had ever successfully climbed. Desperation fueled his steps as he began the arduous ascent. To his astonishment, he made it to the summit. However, as he stepped into the middle of the top, the ground beneath him gave way. Aman plummeted into the depths, falling for what felt like an eternity before he lost consciousness.
When Aman woke, he found himself in a grand hall, unlike anything he had ever seen. Majestic dragons curled on one side, vampires and werewolves—ancient and frail but kept alive by some mysterious power—stood on another, and orcs loomed nearby. In the center of this hall, sitting upon an imposing throne, was Draco, radiating an aura of timeless power.
Draco's voice echoed through the hall, "What is your name, boy?"
Terrified and disoriented, Aman stammered, "Am I dead? If I am, oh god, forgive me. I never believed in you, but you are merciful. Please forgive me. Before dying, I prayed to you to help me, even though I didn't believe. Please forgive me, as I never sinned except for not believing in you."
Draco's roar shook the hall, "You mere human, I asked for your name, and you dare call me god? I am but a servant of the true God, who is all-powerful, all-knowing, and infinitely merciful. I am not worthy of such a title. Now, tell me your name."
Aman, trembling, replied, "I am Aman."
Draco's eyes narrowed, "What is your full name?"
The boy hesitated before answering, "It's Aman Al Dricon."
The name triggered a suspicion in Draco's mind. Although the name 'Al Dragoon' had been erased from memory by divine decree, 'Al Dricon' was close enough to spark curiosity. Draco turned to his Grand Mage, an ancient and wise figure, and commanded, "Determine his lineage."
As the Grand Mage began to weave his spell, the ceiling of the throne room shone with an ethereal light. A voice, clear and powerful, filled Draco's mind, a voice only he could hear. "Yes, my servant Draco, he is the boy I told you about," said God.
Draco's heart swelled with both awe and responsibility. This boy, Aman, was the fulfillment of the prophecy. He was the descendant promised by God, destined to inherit Draco's powers and lead the people of Draconia out of darkness.
Draco addressed Aman with newfound reverence, "Aman, you are more than you realize. You carry the blood of heroes, of legends. You are destined for greatness, to restore light to this land. Your journey has only just begun."
Draco's intense gaze bore into Aman as he asked, "How is everything upstairs? Tell me about the world above."
Aman, still a bit dazed from his fall and newfound surroundings, took a deep breath and began to recount the horrors of Stoic's rule. He spoke of the relentless oppression, the fear that had gripped the hearts of the people, and the suffering that was now a daily reality. As he spoke, Draco listened intently, his expression growing darker with every word.
When Aman finished, Draco asked, "Are you a werewolf?"
Aman couldn't help but burst into laughter. He laughed so hard that tears formed in the corners of his eyes. "Bro, that's hilarious!" he managed to say between laughs.
Draco's voice thundered through the hall, "Kid! Stop laughing! See who you're talking to. I am Draco Al Dragoon, the Monarch of all the beings of Draconia. Who do you think I am?"
Aman, still giggling, opened his eyes to see Draco undergo a startling transformation. Before him, the most handsome human he had ever seen morphed into a fierce, bloodthirsty white werewolf with glowing red eyes. The sight was both awe-inspiring and terrifying.
Aman's laughter stopped abruptly as he took in the transformation. For a moment, he was speechless, his mind racing to process what he was seeing. Then, almost reflexively, he giggled again, albeit nervously this time. "You mean you're the main character of the book I read?"
Draco's eyes narrowed, his red gaze piercing through the boy. "What book?"
Aman, now more cautious but still holding onto a sliver of incredulity, replied, "There was this old book I found in the ruins of a library. It spoke of a great hero named Draco Al Dragoon, who ruled over all beings and protected Draconia from darkness. I thought it was just a story."
Draco's expression softened slightly, recognizing the irony. The tale of his own life had become a forgotten legend, mistaken for mere fiction. He reverted to his human form and stepped closer to Aman, placing a hand on his shoulder. "That story is my life, Aman. And now, you are part of that story. Your destiny is intertwined with mine. Together, we must bring light back to Draconia."
Aman, feeling the weight of Draco's words, nodded solemnly. "What do I need to do?"
Draco smiled, a mix of determination and pride in his eyes. "First, we train. Then, we reclaim our land."
Despite Draco's best efforts to impart his knowledge and skills to Aman, the boy remained a mere human. Try as he might, Aman could not replicate the supernatural abilities of his ancestor.
Draco watched with a mix of frustration and concern as Aman struggled to harness the powers that were his birthright. It was as if fate had played a cruel trick on them both, leaving Aman powerless in the face of the growing darkness.
Despite his lack of supernatural abilities, Aman's determination remained unshaken. He trained tirelessly alongside Draco, honing his skills in combat, strategy, and leadership. Though he may not possess the strength of a werewolf or the command over dragons, Aman possessed something equally valuable—a steadfast resolve and unwavering courage.
As they prepared to confront Stoic and his dark forces, Draco placed his trust in Aman's human ingenuity and resilience. Together, they forged a bond that transcended bloodlines and abilities, united in their quest to bring hope and freedom back to Draconia.
As Draco surveyed the desolate landscape of Draconia, his heart weighed heavy with sorrow and anger. The once vibrant land he had sworn to protect now lay in ruins, its people shackled by the tyranny of Stoic. Determined to confront the oppressor alone, Draco ventured into the heart of the darkness.
Entering the decrepit castle that had once been his own, Draco was met with a chilling sight. Humans, once proud and free, now toiled as slaves under Stoic's watchful eye, their spirits broken and their hope all but extinguished. A towering statue of Stoic, adorned with chains and symbols of power, loomed over the enslaved populace, a cruel mockery of their suffering.
Draco pressed on, his steps echoing through the silent halls until he reached the throne room—the seat of power now tainted by corruption. There, amidst the decay and decay, sat Stoic, oblivious to the looming threat that stood before him.
With a thunderous roar, Stoic commanded his servants to capture the intruder, unaware of the true identity of the figure before him. Draco, bound in chains, met Stoic's gaze with unwavering defiance.
"And who are you to challenge me?" Stoic sneered, his voice dripping with arrogance. "A mere human, nothing more."
In an instant, Draco's form shifted, his human guise melting away to reveal the fearsome visage of a werewolf. His eyes blazed with righteous fury as he faced his adversary.
"What did you say?" Draco growled, his voice reverberating through the chamber. "And you? You dare to proclaim yourself as the 'God of Draconia'? How childish."
Stoic's bravado faltered in the face of Draco's raw power, a flicker of fear betraying his facade of invincibility. In that moment, the balance of power shifted, and the stage was set for a confrontation that would decide the fate of Draconia.
Draco lay on the cold stone floor of his chamber, his body battered and bruised from the fierce battle with Stoic. Despite his immortality, the wounds he bore were a stark reminder of his mortality in the face of such overwhelming darkness.
As he struggled to rise, a blinding flash of light enveloped the room, leaving Draco momentarily disoriented. When the light subsided, he found himself back in the familiar confines of his underground sanctuary. Confusion clouded his mind as he tried to comprehend what had just transpired.
Before Draco could gather his thoughts, a voice, stern and commanding, echoed in his mind. It was the voice of God, unmistakable in its authority and power.
"I never told you to go there," the voice admonished. "You are strong, but not as you were before. Only Aman can defeat him."
Draco's brow furrowed in confusion. "But how?" he asked aloud, though he knew the answer already. Aman, despite being human, possessed a strength and determination that transcended mere physical abilities.
"I will give him the power," came the reply. "You must teach him how to fight."
With a sense of purpose renewed, Draco set about his task. He would train Aman to harness the latent power within him, to wield it with skill and precision against the darkness that threatened to consume them all.
And so, beneath the earth's surface, far from the prying eyes of their enemies, Draco and Aman began their preparations for the ultimate battle. Together, they would rise against Stoic and his forces, united in their quest to reclaim Draconia and restore peace to the land.
As Aman stood before Stoic, the weight of destiny resting heavy on his shoulders, he felt a surge of power unlike anything he had ever known. In that moment, he was no longer just a mere human but the chosen successor to Draco, the Supreme Werewolf and righteous monarch of Draconia.
Stoic, unaware of the transformation that had taken place within Aman, prepared to engage in battle. But before the first blow could be struck, Aman spoke with a commanding voice that echoed through the chamber.
"You should stop," Aman said, his words carrying the weight of authority that came with his newfound power.
To his own surprise, Aman realized that he had inadvertently invoked the voice command, compelling Stoic to halt in his tracks. Stoic, unable to resist the compelling force of Aman's command, froze in place, his defiance momentarily subdued.
"Yes, my Liege," Stoic muttered, his words betraying his unwilling submission to Aman's authority.
Draco, observing from the sidelines, understood the significance of what had just occurred. Aman, with his newfound powers, had surpassed even Draco himself, becoming the true heir to the throne of Draconia.
Aman, still coming to terms with his newfound abilities, turned to Stoic with a mixture of surprise and determination. "Is this your trick, Stoic?" he asked, suspicion lacing his words.
Stoic, shaken by the unexpected turn of events, shook his head. "No," he replied, his voice tinged with both fear and resignation. "I don't know how, but you stopped me."
With a swift and decisive motion, Aman transformed into his werewolf form, his eyes blazing with righteous fury. In one fluid motion, he struck out, severing Stoic's head from his body with a single blow.
As Stoic's lifeless body crumpled to the ground, a wave of relief washed over Draconia. With the defeat of their tyrannical ruler, peace and harmony were restored to the land once more.
And so, under the leadership of Aman, the Supreme Werewolf and righteous monarch, Draconia entered a new era of prosperity and unity, free from the shadow of darkness that had threatened to consume it.
As the dust settled and peace returned to Draconia, Draco stood before Aman, his successor and the new Supreme Alpha. The weight of centuries of duty and responsibility bore heavily upon him, and he knew that the time had come for him to relinquish his powers and embrace the life of a mortal once more.
With a solemn nod, Draco accepted his fate. He had served his people faithfully, but now it was time for him to step aside and allow a new generation to lead. Turning to Aman, Draco spoke with a voice filled with wisdom and resolve.
"It is time for me to pass on the mantle of leadership to you, Aman," Draco said, his words carrying the weight of a lifetime of experience. "You have proven yourself worthy of this responsibility, and I have no doubt that you will lead Draconia with strength and wisdom."
Aman nodded, his eyes filled with determination. He understood the burden that now rested upon his shoulders, but he was ready to embrace the challenge.
But before Draco could fully relinquish his powers, a voice echoed through the chamber, resonating with divine authority. It was the voice of God, speaking directly to Draco.
"There should be only one Supreme Alpha," God declared. "Draco, it is time for you to give me your powers."
Draco bowed his head in acknowledgment. He had known this moment would come eventually, but it still filled him with a sense of solemnity. With a deep breath, he closed his eyes and began to channel the power that had been bestowed upon him so many years ago.

Hello! Long time lurker first time poster kinda situation.
I need advice form redditors here who have moved out of their family homes because of how emotionally draining it is in home.
Now for context why i decided to post here it's because I'm the eldest granddaughter on my dad's side of the family and i kinda like the advice given here because it makes sense.
Background of the story: my dad's side of family is really lovely to be with if you don't get involved in the drama but dad's parents (my papito and mamita) they are polar opposites of each other. Everyone loves my mamita to the extent they are willing to let her go shopping for anything during black friday sales in the USA basically she is an angel on earth kinda person...while papito will make lucifer and satan look like angels, in short no one loves papito because he is very toxic.
Because of papito my dad and me were forced to move to Manila from the visayas. So, from highschool until college i always day dream of going back to the Visayas and just being with my mamita.
additionally, papito is mentally ill (not officially diagnosed but unofficially diagnosed by everyone around him)
Fast forward to this week: i came back to my dad's hometown because papito caused a lot of problems and problems have somewhat been fixed (a little bit)...now originally it was okay with mamita and papito for me to stay in the main house buuuut during the 1st day of my stay papito realized my work is at night and that did not sit well with him.
There was an argument pa on why I'm working night shifts and not a regular 9 to 5 kinda gig. I told him it's because of the following:

1. I'm one of the few employees in the team who is willing go take night shift schedule
2. I have requested a night shift schedule so that i can be with mamita during the day time (note: papito has emotionally and verbally abused mamita in the past and i have been witnessed to it as a kid. Now, that im an adult to protect mamita from him so yeah I'm giving up quality sleeping time to act as a body guard to mamita)*
3. I get additional pay. (Note: i didn't tell papito how much i make. I actually lied to him and gave him a fake low balling answer. And i think it stroked his ego to realize he might have the power to be a better provider. Yes papito is a traditional toxic masculine man)**

When he realized that electricity for the main house would be on until 2am he got so mad/pissed off about it. Now, i didn't want a fight so i told him this "i can pay half of the electricity bill! I dont mind sharing the cost!" This spiraled into another argument.
Tldr: 1. He finds me working in the main host to costly and wants me to move to the vacant apartment room*** 2. Papito thinks I'm a lazy lady because he sees mamita cooking and cleaning for me. He doesn't like it because papito only wants mamita to clean and cook for papito. (Note: i can cook and clean. i just need to rest because I'm so drained by this whole ass trip 😭) 3. Papito thinks me being in the vacant apartment will reduce the electricity cost 🫠
Now, my problem is this: i realized if i stay with mamita, i will constantly be emotionally drained because of papito (****note: i can always lie and just go with the flow but doing it everyday is very tiring).....do i stay in my dad's hometown but in a different part of the town but i wont inform mamita or do i go low contact with mamita ans just visit her once a year on her bday?
Note: I'm mamita's bodyguard because i can fight and everyone in the family is expecting me to protect her from papito *Papito takes the role of provider and toxic traditional man very seriously. It's to the point everyone in the town is always gossiping about him Mamita and papito own an apartment business here in the town. The apartment building sits right on the family property *Mamita is papito's daily caregiver so when he acts mamita just makes up lies and goes with flow because she is partially deaf
I love my mamita very very much but she comes with a very toxic add on who is papito. Everyone in the family has begged mamita to move to manila for the peace of mind. But mamita finds life in manila so boring. She has complained that all she will do is sleep-eat-facebook-puzzles-repeat but here in dad's hometown she has multiple problems (aka papito) which make her brain function (note: i have begged her to stay with me in manila and i promised to buy her 500 puzzle books just to make sure she won't get bored but it's still a no)
So, do i stay in my dad's hometown but in a different part of the town but i wont inform mamita or do i go low contact with mamita ans just visit her once a year on her bday? Or any other suggestions? Please help 😭

A daily thread for the NYT Strands game. Discussion about the current puzzle does not require spoiler text . Please keep all discussion to this thread.
https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands

Gratitude to all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas from ten directions and three periods of time!
Gratitude to the Greatly Merciful and Greatly Compassionate Guan Yin Bodhisattva!
Gratitude to the selfless, altruistic, and benevolent Master Lu!
Gratitude to fellow Buddhist practitioners who helped me!
I am Bin Liu from Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China. Today, I would like to share my Buddhist experience: how the Three Golden Buddhist Practices of Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door saved me, a late-stage lung cancer patient.
I have been practicing XX Dharma Door for >20 years and have been a vegetarian for >10 years. In July 2012, due to unexplained weight loss, I went to the hospital. After a series of tests, I was diagnosed with late-stage lung cancer that had metastasized to my brain. At that time, my daughter kept the severity of my condition from me, but I had a vague sense that something was seriously wrong. The doctor said surgery was not an option, and that I needed immediate radiation and chemotherapy. I firmly insisted on being discharged from the hospital. My daughter reluctantly agreed, so I left the hospital after only undergoing the tests, without receiving any treatment.
The following 5 months were like living through a nightmare, filled with the excruciating pain brought on by cancer. My daughter took me everywhere in search of alternative treatments, from traditional Chinese medicine to various folk remedies, but none proved effective. My health continued to deteriorate, and my weight dropped from over 40 kilograms to just 25 kilograms. I could no longer walk and had to be carried in and out by my daughter. The most dreadful part was the constant, unbearable pain that lasted 24 hours a day. My entire body was so sensitive that any touch, no matter where, would cause intense pain.
The torment of cancer made me feel truly hopeless. One day, I whispered to my daughter, "Living like this is worse than death," and we both cried. Not long after, I noticed that despite drinking plenty of water, I didn't feel the urge to urinate. My daughter consulted a doctor at the oncology hospital, who explained that it was due to tumor compression, indicating that the cancer had likely spread throughout my body. There was no solution, just palliative care at best, with medication costing 500 CNY per pill, once a day. It felt like a death sentence, waiting for the inevitable day.
On January 1, 2013, I was already drifting in and out of consciousness (this was later recounted to me by my daughter). The day after New Year's Day, on the verge of passing away, news of my illness spread quickly among Buddhist friends I had made while volunteering at the XX Dharma Door practice center. Friends whom I hadn't seen for years came to visit upon hearing the news, bringing with them a glimmer of hope — Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door. They arranged for urgent help from a senior practitioner in Nanjing, who then contacted Master Lu's office for assistance. To our surprise, despite Master Lu's busy schedule, He responded within a few days. With guidance from Master Lu, step by step, we followed the assigned practices: Three Golden Buddhist Practices, making vows, liberating lives, and reciting Buddhist scriptures.
As the Lunar New Year approached, I learned that on New Year's Eve, reciting the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance 87 times could eliminate much of the karmic obstacles generated in this lifetime. So, on the evening of the thirtieth day of the lunar month, I made a solemn vow to Guan Yin Bodhisattva, committing to lifelong vegetarianism, liberating 20,000 fish, printing 10,000 copies of Buddhist scriptures, and transforming 1000 sentient beings. Despite being bedridden and unable to walk, with the support of relatives and my daughter, I made my way to the Buddhist altar. In a state of extreme weakness and pain, I struggled to complete the recitation of the Eighty-Eight Buddhas Great Repentance 87 times.
The next day, on the first day of the Lunar New Year, I felt completely transformed — spiritually uplifted and with a much-improved physical condition. Filled with confidence, from then on, fellow practitioners accompanied my daughter in conducting numerous fish liberations, releasing 10,000 fish within a month. With their assistance, we also printed Buddhist scriptures of Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door and delivered them to temples, where the monks helped me distribute. Additionally, I began diligently completing the daily recitation given to me by Master Lu every day.
Despite improvements in various aspects, my health suddenly deteriorated again. Just when everyone was puzzled and confused, my fellow practitioners helped me secure a second consultation with Master Lu. Master Lu's reply was brief but resonated deeply with me. He pointed out that after practicing the XX Dharma Door for >20 years, I couldn't let go of it. His guidance during the second consultation helped me realize that I needed to recite Buddhist scriptures with Him first to eliminate my own karmic obstacles before I could save myself. From then on, I dedicated myself to reciting Little Houses every day at home, and my health improved day by day.
One evening, feeling a bit uncomfortable, I called out three times, "Master Jun Hong Lu, please protect Bin Liu even more." Suddenly, I saw Master Lu's Dharmakaya, tall figure in a dark suit. I was truly excited, and the discomfort disappeared instantly. My fellow practitioners told me that seeing Master's Dharmakaya meant I was saved, which boosted my confidence even more.
Now, I am just like a normal person. I can go grocery shopping, cook, and take care of my granddaughter's diet. My weight has also increased to over 40 kilograms.
So far, we have burned >3,000 Little Houses for my karmic creditors and released over 40,000 fish. Because of my living example, my daughter, her colleagues, friends, neighbors, relatives, and some old Buddhist friends who used to practice XX Dharma Door have all started practicing Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door. My daughter, who didn't know a single Buddhist scripture before, can now recite 7 Little Houses every day. This year, our whole family attended the Hong Kong Dharma Conference, and we applied to become disciples of Master Lu. I am truly grateful to Guan Yin Bodhisattva, Master Jun Hong Lu, and all the fellow practitioners who have helped me!
Everyone understands that in our past and present lives, we have all made mistakes and accumulated significant karmic obstacles. Only by eliminating evil thoughts and distractions, and following the great compassion of Guan Yin Bodhisattva, along with practicing Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door under Master Lu, can we eliminate the karmic obstacles within ourselves and return to the embrace of Guan Yin Bodhisattva.
Today, I am deeply grateful to the Bodhisattva for giving me this opportunity to share my Buddhist journey at this auspicious Dharma Conference. I want to tell friends who, like me, have suffered from illness and torment, that it was Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door that saved me and allowed me to be reborn. I hope that all fellow Buddhists have the opportunity to return to the embrace of Guan Yin Bodhisattva in this Dharma Decline Age, cultivate their hearts and minds, break free from the sea of suffering, and attain enlightenment sooner.
Gratitude to the Greatly Merciful and Greatly Compassionate Guan Yin Bodhisattva!
Gratitude to the selfless, altruistic, and benevolent Master Lu!
Buddhist practitioner: Liu Bin (Jiangsu)
Posted: 2015-07-01
Translator: Frank
Published: 2024-05-28
Source: Feedback from Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door Website Users, Master Lu's Blog.
Statement by translator
The story was translated from Chinese into English by meaning, not word by word. If there is anything that is not rational or in line with the true meaning of the Chinese version, I pray for forgiveness from the Greatly Merciful and Greatly Compassionate Guan Yin Bodhisattva, all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, Dharma protectors and Master Jun Hong Lu.
Propagation
It would be greatly appreciated if you would forward this presentation to all sentient beings you know, sick or healthy. You will accumulate immeasurable merits and virtues. Saving a life is more meritorious than building a seven-floor pagoda!
Would you like to change your destiny?
We will show you how to do the Five Golden Buddhist Practices of Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door: (1) making vows, (2) reciting Buddhist scriptures (sutras and mantras), (3) performing life liberation, (4) reading Buddhism in Plain Terms, and (5) repenting. You will personally witness how you and your family can achieve physical and mental stability, relief from illness and grievances, wisdom growth, academic progress, career advancement, and family happiness through Dharma. It’s free of charge.
Contact
Buddhist practitioner: Lily
Email: [sunnypurplelily@gmail.com](mailto:sunnypurplelily@gmail.com)
WeChat: HanJing20210820
原文如下：
心灵法门的三大法宝救了肺癌晚期的我
感恩十方三世一切诸佛！
感恩南无大慈大悲救苦救难广大灵感感观世音菩萨！
感恩大慈大悲的师父卢军宏台长！
感恩所有帮助过我的师兄们！
我是来自江苏南京的刘斌，今天在这里是要和大家分享心灵法门的三大法宝是怎样救了肺癌晚期的我。
我修净土已有二十余年，吃长素十余年，在2012年7月因为莫名的消瘦去医院经医院经过一系列检查确诊是肺癌晚期并已转移头颅，当时女儿对我是隐瞒病情的，但我自己隐约感觉着不太好。医生说不能开刀只能放化疗，并且立刻就要进行，我坚决要求出院。女儿只能同意，在医院里我只进行了检查，并未做任何治疗就出院了。
在后来的五个月里我可以说是度日如年，尝尽了癌症给我带来的生不如死的痛苦。女儿带着我四处寻找偏方，老中医，也去找看香头的，但都不尽如人意，身体也每况愈下，从最初的八十多斤瘦到只有五十斤，已经不能走路都是女儿抱着进进出出，最可怕的是24小时没日没夜全身的疼痛，别人都不能碰我因为碰哪儿哪疼。对于癌症的折磨，我真的觉得活的很绝望。一天，我低声和女儿说了一句话，“这样活着真是生不如死”，说完我们俩人都哭了。没过多长时间，我发现喝了很多水都没有小便的感觉，女儿去肿瘤医院咨询医生，医生说是因为肿瘤压迫所致，肯定是转移全身都有了，没有办法，只能死马当活马医，条件允许就给开点药500元/颗，一天一次。我就像是宣判了死刑，等着死亡的那一天。
2013年1月1日那天我已经开始昏沉，（这是女儿后来告诉我的），元旦第二天，就在我弥留之际，因为我之前是在净土道场帮忙助念的，认识很多佛友，我得病的事情很快就传开了，几年没见的佛友听说此事就来探望我，同时也给我带来了生的希望——心灵法门，然后请我们南京师兄帮忙在台长那里挂了急诊，没想到几天后台长百忙之中就回复了，接到台长师父回复后一步一步按照师父布置的功课，三大法宝，许愿、放生、小房子。
当时快过年了，得知除夕可以念礼佛大忏悔文87遍消除今世的业障，于是就在年三十的晚上我向观世音菩萨发了大愿，正式发愿长年吃素，放生二万条鱼，印经书一万本，度一千人。由于当时我已经不能下床不能走路，由亲戚和女儿架着我去佛台那边，我在极度虚弱极度痛苦的状态下，吃力的完成了87遍礼佛大忏悔文，结果第二天大年初一我整个人都不一样了，有了精神，身体状态也好了很多。我充满了信心，自此，师兄们陪着女儿为我大量放生，一月内放生了一万条鱼，还配合了很多小房子，在师兄的帮助下印了心灵法门的经书，送往寺院里，由那里的师父帮我结缘。我自己也开始每天完成台长师父给我布置的功课。
在各方面都有好转的情况下，我身体突然又每况愈下，就在大家都费解疑惑的时候，师兄又帮我向台长师父挂了第二次号，台长回复很简单也说中了我的心事，因为修了二十多年的净土，放不下净土。经过师父第二次点拨我终于明白，先跟着师父念经，消自身的业障才能救自己，自此我每天在家里就是做功课念小房子了，身体也一天好似一天。
有一天晚上，突然有点不太舒服，我就喊了三声“卢军宏台长加倍护佑刘斌”，就看见穿深色西服身材高大的台长法身，当时真的非常激动，身体的不适顿时消失。师兄告诉我如果见到了师父的法身说明你有救了，听后我更加信心百倍。现在我已和正常人一样，自己买菜，做饭还能照顾孙女饮食，体重也增加到八十多斤了。
截止目前已经放生了4万多条鱼了，小房子有3000多张，因为有了我这个活生生的例子，女儿、女儿同事、朋友，邻居、亲戚，还有以前修净土的一些老佛友等都开始修心灵法门。女儿从一个不懂一句经文到现在每天可以念7张小房子，今年我们全家都来参加香港法会，并且申请做了台长得弟子，我真得很感恩观世音菩萨，感恩卢军宏台长，感恩所有帮助过我得同修们！
大家都明白每个人的前世和今世都做错过很多事，每人身上都有很大的业障，只有摒除邪思杂念跟着大慈大悲观世音菩萨，跟着卢台长修心灵法门，才能消除自己身上的业障，回到观世音菩萨的怀抱。
今天很感恩菩萨给我这个机会，让我能在这个殊胜的法会上分享我的学佛经历，我要告诉和我一样饱受病痛折磨的朋友们，是心灵法门救了我，让我得到重生。希望广大佛友有缘在末法时期回到观世音菩萨妈妈的怀抱，修心修行，脱离苦海，早证菩提。
感恩南无大慈大悲观世音菩萨，感恩大慈大悲卢台长！
江苏刘斌
——心灵法门网友反馈 2015-07-01
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Disclaimer of Liability:
The contents of the presentation and answers, including text, images, and other information obtained from Dharma practitioners, are provided strictly for reference purposes. Due to the unique nature of individual karma, results similar to those experienced by the authors may not be replicated. The experiences and advice shared should not be construed as medical advice or a diagnosis.
In the event of an emergency, it is crucial to promptly contact your doctor or emergency services by dialing 911. Relying on any information found in the answers is done solely at your own risk. The translator and answerer bear no responsibility for the consequences. By using or misusing the contents, you accept liability for any personal injury, including death. It is imperative to exercise caution and seek professional medical guidance for health-related concerns.

Hello, all: time to dive in - the takeaway message here is that there is no evidence that Thomas Kingston had a funeral on March 12th as reported.
Every single article about this funeral informs us that William was present at the funeral, and with no photo or quote evidence, we need to seriously examine how flimsy the facts are that it even happened. I do believe Thomas Kingston is actually dead, and therefore something must have happened with the body, but I DO NOT believe he had a service in the way it has been reported. The reports of his funeral were fabricated to send one message: William was present at his funeral.
Just the day prior, on March 11, Camilla and William appeared and were photographed sitting together at Westminster Abbey to mark Commonwealth Day. There are quite a few photos from that day, as are the many days before - folks will say there is a media block on these stories, but evidence shows there are many photos of the Royals taken and published the same day. Which makes it extremely strange that the next day, there are are NO photos from the funeral of Thomas Kingston - an event that allegedly had 140 guests, including Prince William, and had a funeral procession that went from Kensington Palace to St. James palace. No photos from outside, inside, or direct quotes from anyone who attended the funeral.
At this point, there was no official statement from Buckingham Palace or Kensington Palace on the death of Thomas Kingston, and no announced services. The funeral was first reported by Richard Eden to the Daily Mail at 12:44 EDT on March 12 (the same date as the alleged service).
Now, we are seeing articles in late May saying Lady Gabriella is being asked to appear at the Trooping of the Colors and that there will be another, larger service in honor of Thomas Kingston in June. Why are they having another service, and why would there be a second one? Why was the first one so small? How did the first service manage to stay so private when it was 140 people, including the Prince of Wales? Now, I found a Daily Beast article that claims "Buckingham Palace had requested that no media attended the service". Was the service ever announced? No. I'd like to see the email to the news outlets telling them no press allowed. If there is no media allowed, why would Buckingham Palace immediately confirm William's attendance and allow a dozen stories to run the same day? Sure, very private. Related - I'm making a master timeline of the RF since December 2023, and let me tell you - Camilla has been more active than any of them. She was just with William the day before, she's been the biggest show horse of them all this year, and yet she's not present for this tragic funeral? I don't buy it.
As with much of this Kate Missing saga, I don't know exactly how this piece fits or what it means. But it is a piece of the puzzle, no doubt. They want us to believe that Thomas Kingston's death was not suspicious, and that William appeared at his funeral. ------
Now let's examine some key dates and facts as they have been reported:
Thomas Kingston died Sunday, February 25, 2024

• "According to The Telegraph, Kingston died by suicide at his parents’ home in the Cotswolds on Sunday. He was 45. Senior coroner for Gloucestershire, Katy Skerrett, said Kingston had lunch with his parents before his father took their dogs on a walk. "On his return, Mr. Kingston was not in the house," according to the coroner's office. Kingston's mother began to search for him after 30 minutes, and his father "forced entry on a locked outbuilding when no reply could be gained. His father found Mr Kingston deceased, with a catastrophic head injury. A gun was present at the scene. The emergency services were called and the police are satisfied that the death is not suspicious," the coroner's office said." https://people.com/thomas-kingston-died-traumatic-head-wound-gunshot-lady-gabriella-husband-cause-of-death-age-45-8602940
• "died at the age of 45 on Sunday in Gloucestershire, England. He was found deceased at a home and emergency services were called at around 6:25 p.m." https://nypost.com/2024/02/28/entertainment/thomas-kingstons-final-days-before-death-with-wife-lady-gabriella-revealed/
• "Gloucestershire Constabulary has said it was called by the ambulance service about the death of Mr Kingston. The force said: “We were called by the ambulance service at 6.25pm on Sunday with a report of the death of a 45-year-old man at an address in the Cotswolds. The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”" https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/royals/thomas-kingston-cause-death-everything-32226346

Thomas Kingston's death was announced Feb 27

• Announced simultaneously by his family's statement and Buckingham Palace, both statements only released as quoted through the media. Earliest report of statements announcing death were late Tuesday Feb 27. (There was no official statement on royal.uk website or their social media. The quote from Buckingham Palace comes through an unnamed spokesperson.)
• Thomas' widow, parents family statement, unclear who released it (some articles say authorized/released by Buckingham palace for the family). According to Tatler, it came from Kingston's family first:
  • "Kingston’s parents, Martin and Jill Kingston, and his sisters Joanna Connolly and Emma Murray announced his death at 6pm on Tuesday 27 February, describing him as a ‘beloved husband, son and brother’, before asking the public to ‘respect our privacy as we mourn his passing.’ Kingston was found dead at an address in Gloucestershire, and a police spokesperson said that the ‘death is not being treated as suspicious’ and a ‘file will be prepared for the coroner.’" https://www.tatler.com/article/thomas-kingston-funeral-lady-gabriella-windsor
  • "A statement released on Tuesday on behalf of Lady Gabriella Kingston, Martin and Jill Kingston, Joanna Connolly and Emma Murray said, "It is with the deepest sorrow that we announce the death of Thomas Kingston, our beloved husband, son and brother. Tom was an exceptional man who lit up the lives of all who knew him. His death has come as a great shock to the whole family, and we ask you to respect our privacy as we mourn his passing."' https://people.com/thomas-kingston-dead-45-husband-lady-gabriella-windsor-former-boyfriend-pippa-middleton-details-8601086#:~:text=A%20statement%20released%20on%20Tuesday,of%20all%20who%20knew%20him
• Buckingham Palace statement through unnamed spokesperson -
  • "A palace spokesperson said that King Charles and Queen Camilla were informed of Kingston's death. "The King and The Queen have been informed of Thomas’s death and join Prince and Princess Michael of Kent and all those who knew him in grieving a much-loved member of the family. In particular, Their Majesties send their most heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Gabriella and to all the Kingston family," the palace spokesperson's statement said." https://people.com/thomas-kingston-dead-45-husband-lady-gabriella-windsor-former-boyfriend-pippa-middleton-details-8601086#:~:text=A%20statement%20released%20on%20Tuesday,of%20all%20who%20knew%20him

An inquest into the death was opened Friday, March 1

• "An inquest into Mr Kingston's death opened on 1 March at Gloucestershire Coroner's Court. His death was not being treated as suspicious, and no-one else was involved." https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-68549345
• "An ensuing inquest found that Kingston died by apparent suicide. A spokesperson for the coroner's office confirmed to PEOPLE that the cause of death was a "traumatic wound to the head," and a gun was found near his body. PEOPLE confirms the inquest has been adjourned to a later date." https://people.com/thomas-kingston-died-traumatic-head-wound-gunshot-lady-gabriella-husband-cause-of-death-age-45-8602940
• "“I have received evidence of the brief circumstances surrounding this tragic incident also in written format, which complies with rule 23 of the Coroners Rules 2013,” the senior coroner Katy Skerrett said. “These brief circumstances are as follows: Mr Kingston was visiting his parents’ home in the Cotswolds. On 25 February 2024 he ate lunch with his parents. His father went out to walk the dogs. On his return, Mr Kingston was not in the house, and after approximately 30 minutes his mother went to look for him. His father forced entry on a locked outbuilding when no reply could be gained. “He found Mr Kingston deceased with a catastrophic head injury. A gun was present at the scene. Emergency services were called. Police are satisfied the death is not suspicious. A postmortem has been undertaken by Dr Jones, a consultant histopathologist, and a provisional cause of death has been given as a traumatic wound to head.The coroner said she was satisfied with identification, initial cause of death and the brief circumstances surrounding Kingston’s death, and adjourned proceedings to a date yet to be fixed.” https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2024/ma01/thomas-kingston-died-from-traumatic-head-wound-and-gun-found-inquest-told
• "“I can confirm I have received evidence of identification of the deceased in written format, which complies with Rule 23 of the Coroner’s Rules 2013,” she (Katy Skerrett) said. “That evidence is sufficient for identification and I can thereby confirm the deceased is indeed Thomas Henry Robin Kingston, 45, whose home address is in London." https://www.standard.co.uk/news/crime/elizabeth-ii-gloucestershire-princess-police-tom-b1142627.html
• Allegedly no Royals came to the "short hearing at the court in Gloucester", but an official from the household did?
  • "“Having been satisfied with identification, initial cause of death and the brief circumstances surrounding Mr Kingston’s death, I can formally open this inquest. “I now adjourn it to a date to be fixed.” No members of the Kingston family were present although an official from the royal household attended, as did several members of the media." https://www.standard.co.uk/news/crime/elizabeth-ii-gloucestershire-princess-police-tom-b1142627.html

A funeral was held on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 in London.

• "According to SkyNews, Kingston’s casket traveled from Kensington Palace to the Chapel Royal before the hour-long service began at 11:30 am. The BBC reports that the service was followed by a reception at St. James’s Palace and a private cremation." https://www.vanityfair.com/style/thomas-kingston-st-jamess-palace-funeral-prince-william
• "Mr Kingston’s coffin was brought from the chapel of Kensington Palace, accompanied by close family for the hour-long service which began at 11.30am. The service was led by the Sub-Dean of the Chapels Royal, the Rev Canon Paul Wright, with a sermon by the former Bishop of London, the Rt Rev Richard Chartres. The funeral was followed by a reception in St James’s Palace and a private cremation, but no details have been shared of Mr Kingston’s final resting place. A larger scale memorial service is expected to be held in honour of Mr Kingston in due course." https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-68549345
• "Tom’s body had been carried by hearse in a funeral procession from Kensington Palace. Lady Gabriella was joined by her parents, her brother, Lord Frederick Windsor, and his wife, the actress Sophie Winkleman." https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/royals/article-13425387/RICHARD-EDEN-heartfelt-royal-gesture-help-Lady-Gabriella-Windsor-recover-tragic-death-husband-Thomas-Kingston-powerful-signal-really-means.html
• Who attended the Funeral?
  • "On Tuesday, Prince William joined a group of 140 mourners in London to honor the life of Thomas Kingston, the husband of Lady Gabriella Kingston, who died February 25 at age 45. The funeral took place at Chapel Royal, a small chapel in St. James’s Palace, and other royal guests including Gabriella’s parents, Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, the Duke of Kent, Princess Alexandra. Thomas’ parents, Martin and Jill Kingston and his two sisters, Joanna Connolly and Emma Murray, were also present." https://www.vanityfair.com/style/thomas-kingston-st-jamess-palace-funeral-prince-william
  • "Thomas Kingston was given a royal send-off today in a funeral attended by Prince William and other members of the Royal Family. The body of the financier, who was found dead last month aged 45, was carried in a procession that began at Kensington Palace, the family home of his widow, Lady Gabriella Windsor. The procession ended at Ambassador's Court at St James's Palace. A private family funeral was then held at the Chapel Royal" https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13188199/Prince-William-Thomas-Kingston-funeral.html
  • "King Charles was not in attendance as he continues to step back from public outings amid his cancer treatment. Meanwhile, Queen Camilla had prior commitments to host a reception at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday morning." https://people.com/prince-william-attends-thomas-kingston-funeral-8601555

Another service will be held in the future

• "A larger scale memorial service is expected to be held in honour of Mr Kingston in due course." https://uk.news.yahoo.com/william-royal-family-gather-private-161940842.html
• "Kingston’s hourlong service was followed by a private cremation, with a larger memorial service likely to be held in the near future." https://nypost.com/2024/03/12/entertainment/prince-william-attends-thomas-kingston-funeral-after-death/
• "According to Eden, Kingston's family, in partnership with the Royal Family, have organised a memorial service for the late financier. Some of Kingston's friends have already been invited. A source told The Mail: "It will be a wonderful chance to celebrate his life." Kingston's funeral took place at the Chapel Royal within St James’s Palace in March." https://www.gbnews.com/royal/king-charles-lady-gabriella-balcony-lovely-gesture#

Why no press at the funeral?
I just found this - I haven't seen this detail in any other article so I'll post it here.
"Buckingham Palace had requested that no media attended the service, which was held at Chapel Royal, St James’s, followed by a reception in St. James’s Palace.
A spokesperson for the palace Tuesday thanked the media for respecting the family’s privacy and said the funeral was attended by Prince William. The queen was not able to attend due to a prior engagement and the king could not attend due to medical advice to avoid large gatherings while he is being treated for cancer.
A larger memorial service is likely to be held in due course."
https://www.thedailybeast.com/prince-william-attends-thomas-kingstons-funeral-after-his-sudden-death

I've played BDO since early 2019, I've done it all, reached 751 gearscore, lifeskill, pve and pvp.
Organic player interaction is gone. Most of it was tied to conflict in one way or another. Reasons decc changes, karma nerf and marni realm. The only form of interaction that is organic is within your own guild.
The content of BDO is 99% tied to gearing. All the caps from pvp to pve undermine the core purpose of BDO.
BDO dungeon experience is awful. Most of the dungeons are completely empty. Many of the fights are gated by annoying puzzles and mechanics. You have no roles in your parties. The rewards are unimaginative lump sum pay. If you cannot complete the dungeon, you get nothing for your spent time since all the rewards are tied to completion. The dungeons are time gated, meaning you can't grind them and they are essentially a chore instead of something fun to do with your friends.
Blackshrine bosses are time gated. You can complete 5 / week when there are 10 bosses. They are also a chore because every week you must go and do them, instead of being able to grind them for a week. Rewards are problematic the exact same way as the dungeons.
Too many dailies because of time gating so much activity, (chore load is too big to call it a game to enjoy).
No fun pvp content of any kind. New and old node wars too organized to casually enjoy. War of roses is a bad joke for so many reasons. Guild league is mostly stomp or get stomped, even fights are rare. Participation rewards mean that people are once again looking to put in that time gated afk participation (chore). What is the point of rbf. Open world pvp is rarely enjoyable, but recently completely removed aside of arsha.
That is my 2 cents and doing my part. I know this is not the place for PA to hear it, but I don't care enough to go anywhere else with this. You must be reading this and wonder why am I even playing the game if I have only complaints and the answer is this: I am no longer actively playing. I've sold my gear and I semi-afk and make money in different ways. If there isn't going to be improvements, well there are plenty of promising games right around the corner. But yeah, feel like PA could do a LOT to improve the game and be more competitive in the mmo market.