I will preface by saying that I am definitely not a CoD player and the last CoD game I've played was BO2 which I liked. But I have seen other CoD games since then and the games all in all look all the same to me so they never grabbed my interest which also includes Warzone. However, I am an avid FPS or first person gamer casually and competitively more focused on objective based gameplay rather than just kills, since the birth of CSGO. So when I saw XDefiant, the game obviously didn't hold my interest all that much until a couple of friends said we should try it. I can't speak of others but I definitely did have fun. The game was actually more fun than I thought, had a lot of "one more game" moments. The gunplay does feel good and movement is decent (both of which I have minor complaints about). now I have clocked in about 25 hours in a span of 2 weeks.
But I will say this, the game doesn't feel like it's out yet. The game fundamentally feels janky and unpolished - sometimes even not launch ready. And all of that culminates into rather an annoying experience which I will list the lowest to the highest:

• UI/UX - sucks, too much clutter, give us options to hide some in-game. And I would like to know what challenge to complete on the same tab as the Loadout menu and not in another tab. Also, I don't have a second monitor, so the fact that I have to go Fullscreen>windowed>Fullscreen just to unlock "alt+tab" is super annoying every time I enter the game.
• Player progression/ Battlepass - Lets be real here. They kinda suck and is not worth throwing your money into. You earn a green skin/ blue skin in your battlepass which is literally a weapon skin you can earn just by playing in other F2P FPS games. Cosmetics are also just color tweaks of characters. There aren't really any player incentives to keep people engaged but luckily game is good enough to go another round.
• Bunny hopping: I personally don't know why is it called bunny hopping, it doesn't make you move any faster. I also think jumping consecutively also slows down your momentum drastically in this game. But the initial boost you'd get from jumping just from a standing position is insane. But tbh, I personally don't think it to be too annoying, I usually have had the upper hand in most of those fights, although it does distract me from other opponents that are also taking a shot at me. Also movement is pretty janky in general and vaulting is abysmal.
• Snipers - I think something about snipers needs to be tweaked. It's definitely an OP weapon and you cannot argue with that. I think playing snipers is literally the lowest skill to play in this game (which already is a pretty easy low entry skill game). But if I'm obliterating a game 71-19, (and I don't even play snipers in other games), I think there's an issue. Playing against it is obviously frustrating given that the TAC-50 is the easiest gun to grind for and every low skill player will use it. Playing in higher (ranked) lobbies there is little sniper usage. People defending it (imho) are prolly terrible at mid to CQB.
• Maps - Although, I I do think the game (generally) has good maps. I don't think they are great maps. Every game (that I have played) have safety nets that prevents decent flanking and requires smarts to outsmart opponents that are holding an objective. Again, I have not played CoD in a while so idk if CoD is also fashioned the same way. So please correct me if I'm wrong that the map was intended to be this way because its a CoD-type game.
  • Every domination, occupy type maps has no safety for the player that is holding an objective, you can almost be shot/flanked from almost every direction, so flanking an opponent doesn't feel smart but rather just happenstance. Its annoying because guess what, you can be flanked when you also spawn. You're much safer being the aggressor rather than a team player holding the objective (leaving a player behind on said objective) because the TTK is low enough, whoever has first peek usually tends to win the fight.
  • Every escort/zone control type map has the strongest peek angles for the defenders, creating the best defense for anyone especially those holding a sniper, said angles also has the worst way to flank usually requiring flanker (aggressor) to be seen by the defender to even get close. Again, playing another sniper from the aggressor side usually do the trick but the defender usually has the better angle from wherever you peek and also the aggressor sniper doesn't have much safety like the defender does against enemy snipeflanker.
• Getting hit behind walls - its honestly funny the amount of times this has happened for it to be this common. People are blaming it on net code, idk what it is so I'm not gonna talk about it. But I do know what tick rates are and they say that this game's tick rate is that of overwatch. I do not believe it because most games rn still run on that tick rate and if I died that many times behind walls in other FPS games, I personally would've quit FPS altogether. But yea it sucks given that I usually have 20-30 ping in my games.
• Hip-Firing: I think hip firing in this game is the weakest in any game I have seen. Practically non-existent in most cases, which probably ties in with my next case.
• Hit-registration: This is the most infuriating thing in the game. This like "getting hit behind walls" is common place in this game than any other I have played. The fact that I will shove my gun while ADS-ing down someone's throat and still miss the first (important) shots sometimes is actually baffling.

But even with all this being said, the game was a good time. I do think the game plays it very safe, doesn't do anything innovative except for overwatching it (just adding abilities - ex. Valorant, Apex Legends, etc) and it doesn't have to be (innovative) as long as its decent for which it is. For now, it's a strong average mindless shooter.
6/10.

Isle of Hope: A Tale of Survival and Redemption

Chapter 1: The Calm Before the Storm

Maya Williams sat in her seventh-grade classroom, staring out the window as Mr. Thompson droned on about the history of ancient civilizations. The warm spring sun cast a golden glow over the schoolyard, and Maya's mind wandered to the weekend ahead. She and her friends—Eli, Nora, and Milo—had planned a sleepover and a movie marathon. Little did she know, this would be the last ordinary day she would ever experience.
As the final bell rang, signaling the end of the school day, Maya gathered her books and made her way to the cafeteria for lunch. She joined her friends at their usual table, the air filled with their excited chatter. Eli, the tech whiz, was showing off his latest gadget. Nora, always calm and collected, laughed at one of Milo's jokes. The atmosphere was lively, but a sense of unease lingered in the background. Whispers of a strange illness had been circulating all week, but no one took them seriously.
"Did you hear about that new virus?" a student at the next table asked, his voice tinged with curiosity and fear. Maya glanced over, catching snippets of conversation. "Yeah, they say it's turning people into... I don't know, like zombies or something."
Maya's friends dismissed the rumors with a shrug, but Maya couldn't shake a growing sense of dread. The principal's voice suddenly crackled over the intercom, interrupting her thoughts. "Attention students and faculty. Please stay indoors. Lock all doors and windows. We are facing an emergency."

Chapter 2: The Virus Spreads

Panic spread through the cafeteria like wildfire. Students and teachers scrambled to make sense of the announcement as the once mundane school environment descended into chaos. Maya's heart raced as she watched in horror as her classmates, now transformed into mindless, ravenous creatures, began attacking each other with terrifying ferocity.
Just then, Mr. Thompson burst into the cafeteria, his eyes vacant and his movements erratic. He let out a guttural growl and lunged at a nearby student. Maya's instincts kicked in, and she grabbed a nearby chair, wielding it like a weapon. "Get back!" she screamed, her voice filled with a mix of fear and determination.
Mr. Thompson, now fully transformed into a zombie, advanced on her with unrelenting hunger. With a swift, desperate swing, Maya brought the chair down on his head, the force of the blow sending him crashing to the ground. Blood spattered across her clothes, but she didn't flinch. She knew it was him or her.
"Maya, we need to get out of here!" Milo shouted, grabbing her arm. Together with Eli and Nora, they pushed through the panicked crowd, their hearts pounding in their chests. The hallways were a scene of utter mayhem, with students running in all directions, screams echoing off the walls.
As they reached the stairwell, Maya's gaze fell upon the heavy metal door leading to the school's basement—a seemingly impenetrable fortress that offered refuge from the horrors unfolding above. "This way!" she shouted, leading her friends down the stairs and into the dimly lit confines of the basement.

Chapter 3: Taking Shelter

With adrenaline coursing through their veins, Maya and her friends quickly set to work barricading the entrance. They used whatever makeshift objects they could find to fortify their stronghold—desks, chairs, and filing cabinets. The air was heavy with the scent of dampness and mildew, but to Maya, it was a sanctuary—a bastion of safety amidst the chaos that raged outside.
As they caught their breath, Maya took stock of their situation. The basement was a maze of storage rooms and utility spaces, with limited supplies and no way to contact the outside world. "We need to stick together and stay calm," she said, her voice steady despite the fear gnawing at her insides. "We'll figure this out."

Chapter 4: The Basement Fortress

As the minutes stretched into hours, Maya and her friends huddled together in the dimly lit basement, their eyes scanning the darkness for any signs of danger. Outside, the sounds of chaos echoed through the halls as the infected roamed the school in search of their next prey.
With a sense of grim determination, Maya took charge, her natural leadership abilities shining through in the face of adversity. She assigned tasks to each member of the group, ensuring that everyone had a role to play in their fight for survival. Some were tasked with fortifying the barricades, while others scoured the basement for supplies.
They found a small storage room filled with canned goods and bottled water—a precious lifeline in their time of need. Eli rigged up a makeshift lighting system using spare batteries and flashlights, while Nora organized their limited medical supplies. Milo, ever the protector, stood guard at the barricade, his ears straining to catch any sound of approaching danger.

Chapter 5: Scavenging for Supplies

As days turned into weeks, their supplies began to dwindle, and the reality of their situation began to sink in. With each passing day, Maya and her friends ventured out into the school in search of food, water, and medical supplies, their hearts pounding with each step they took into the unknown.
Armed with makeshift weapons—a baseball bat, a metal pipe, and a crowbar—they navigated the labyrinthine halls of the school, their senses on high alert for any signs of danger. They raided the cafeteria for non-perishable food items, gathered bottles of water from the drinking fountains, and scavenged first aid supplies from the nurse's office.
One particularly harrowing trip saw them encounter a group of infected students, their vacant eyes and jerky movements a stark reminder of the horrors they faced. Maya and her friends fought their way back to the basement, their hearts racing and their bodies trembling with fear and adrenaline.

Chapter 6: The Government Announcement

One fateful night, while searching for news on an old radio, they intercepted a government broadcast that sent chills down their spines. "All infected zones will be destroyed with nuclear strikes. Evacuation is no longer possible. Good luck." Maya's blood ran cold as she realized the gravity of their situation. Their town was on the list. They had to leave, and fast.
The announcement left them reeling, their minds racing with fear and uncertainty. "We can't stay here," Maya said, her voice trembling. "We need to find a way out—somewhere safe, far from the fallout." They gathered around the map they had found in the school's library, searching for a potential escape route.

Chapter 7: The Plan Takes Shape

With the weight of the government's announcement heavy on their hearts, Maya and her friends knew they had to act fast if they were to stand any chance of survival. Gathering in the dimly lit confines of the basement, they set to work devising an escape plan—one that would see them flee the confines of the school and seek refuge in a place far from the impending nuclear strikes.
Eli suggested the idea of flying a plane, his eyes lighting up with excitement and determination. "There's an old Cessna at the airstrip near the edge of town," he explained. "I've been taking flying lessons with my dad. If we can get to the plane, I can fly us out of here."
Maya's heart pounded with a mix of fear and hope. The idea seemed risky, but it was their best chance. "Alright," she said, her voice steady. "We'll need to gather supplies and make our way to the airstrip. Let's get to work."

Chapter 8: Preparing the Plane

Finding the Cessna at the airstrip was a stroke of luck, but getting it ready for flight was another matter entirely. With Eli's technical expertise and a stroke of ingenuity, they managed to get the old plane running, despite its age and condition. The task was daunting, but they worked tirelessly, their determination fueling their efforts.
Maya and her friends gathered fuel, loaded supplies, and ensured the plane was ready for takeoff. The process was painstakingly slow, each step fraught with danger and uncertainty. They scavenged the nearby hangars for additional supplies, finding spare parts, tools, and even a few makeshift weapons.
As the days passed, the group grew closer, their bond forged through shared hardship and determination. They worked together seamlessly, each member contributing their unique skills to the effort. Maya's leadership guided them, while Eli's technical know-how and Nora's resourcefulness ensured their success. Milo's unwavering loyalty and strength provided a sense of security and camaraderie.

Chapter 9: The Flight Crew

As the designated pilot, Maya felt a mix of excitement and fear as she prepared to fly the plane. Milo, Eli, and Nora would be her co-pilots, assisting her in navigation and communication. Together, they went over the flight plan, checking and double-checking every detail.
Maya spent hours studying the plane's controls and practicing basic maneuvers under Eli's guidance. The responsibility weighed heavily on her shoulders, but she knew they had no other choice. Their survival depended on her ability to fly the plane and lead them to safety.

Chapter 10: The Great Escape

Under the cover of darkness, they made their move. With the zombies distracted by the chaos in the town, they made their way to the airstrip, their hearts pounding with anticipation and fear. The sight of the old Cessna waiting for them filled them with hope and determination.
With a deep breath, Maya climbed into the cockpit and started the engine. The plane roared to life, the sound echoing across the deserted airstrip. As they taxied down the runway, the reality of their situation hit them full force.
Isle of Hope: Part 2 - Rebuilding and Redemption

Chapter 11: The Great Escape (Continued)

With the Cessna's engine roaring, Maya and her friends held their breath as the plane sped down the runway. The fear of being overrun by zombies, the urgency of their escape, and the uncertainty of their destination all weighed heavily on their minds. The plane lifted off just as a group of zombies reached the edge of the airstrip, their outstretched hands a haunting reminder of what they left behind.
As they soared into the sky, a mix of relief and apprehension settled over them. They were safe for now, but their journey was far from over.

Chapter 12: A New Beginning

The group flew for hours, searching for a safe haven. Eventually, they spotted a secluded island surrounded by dense forests and pristine beaches. It seemed untouched by the chaos that had consumed their world. Maya guided the plane to a smooth landing on a makeshift airstrip they discovered in a clearing.
As they disembarked, the reality of their new situation set in. They had escaped immediate danger, but now they faced the daunting task of surviving and rebuilding their lives on the island.

Chapter 13: Splitting Into Groups

Recognizing the need for organization and structure, the group decided to split into two main factions based on gender, with each group responsible for different aspects of their new society. Maya and Nora led the girls' group, focusing on establishing shelters, gathering food, and ensuring safety. Milo and Eli led the boys' group, focusing on defense, exploration, and construction.
Despite the division, the groups maintained regular communication and cooperation, with the leaders meeting frequently to discuss important decisions and challenges. The separation allowed them to efficiently manage tasks and resources, ensuring the survival of their newfound community.

Chapter 14: Building a New Society

Over the years, the two groups thrived on the island, their bonds strengthening as they worked together to build a sustainable society. They established farms, constructed sturdy shelters, and created a system of governance that ensured fairness and order.
The leaders' meetings became a cornerstone of their society, where decisions were made democratically, and everyone had a voice. Maya's leadership was instrumental in fostering a sense of unity and purpose, guiding them through challenges and celebrating their achievements.

Chapter 15: Reuniting at 18

As time passed, the groups agreed to reunite when they all turned 18, including the younger 8th and 6th graders who had grown alongside them. The reunion was a celebration of survival, resilience, and the bonds they had formed. Maya, now a young woman of 18, felt a mix of excitement and nostalgia as she prepared to see everyone again.
The reunion was filled with laughter, tears, and stories of their experiences over the years. Maya was thrilled to see Milo, who had been her close friend and confidant during their years on the island. The two reconnected, and their bond deepened into love. They eventually had two children, their lives seemingly perfect.

Chapter 16: Betrayal and Heartache

However, their happiness was shattered when Maya discovered that Milo had been cheating on her with her friend Evie. The betrayal cut deep, and Maya's world was turned upside down. She struggled to cope with the pain and anger, feeling lost and alone.
In her darkest moments, Maya found solace in the friendship of Max, who had been an 8th grader when they first arrived on the island. Now 19, Max had grown into a kind, supportive, and understanding young man. He offered Maya a shoulder to lean on, and their friendship blossomed into something deeper.

Chapter 17: Finding Love Again

Maya and Max's relationship grew stronger, built on trust, respect, and shared experiences. They found happiness in each other's company, their love a beacon of hope in the midst of their challenges. Eventually, they had a child together, their family a testament to the resilience and strength they had developed over the years.

Chapter 18: A New Chapter

With Max by her side, Maya felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Together, they continued to lead their community, guiding them through the ups and downs of life on the island. Their love and commitment to each other and their people became a source of inspiration for everyone around them.
As they looked to the future, Maya and Max knew that their journey was far from over. They faced new challenges and adventures, but they faced them together, their bond unbreakable.

Chapter 19: Legacy of Hope

Years later, as their children grew and thrived on the island, Maya and Max reflected on their journey. They had faced unimaginable horrors, survived against all odds, and built a community based on love, trust, and cooperation. Their legacy was one of hope and resilience, a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
The island had become a sanctuary, a place where they could live in peace and harmony. As they watched their children play on the beach, Maya and Max knew that they had created something truly special—a legacy that would endure for generations to come.
And so, the story of Maya and her friends came full circle. From the chaos and destruction of their old world, they had forged a new life filled with hope, love, and redemption. Their journey was a testament to the power of unity, the strength of the human spirit, and the enduring legacy of hope. Anything I can fix? Please tell me!

People playing Halo have been asking about the usefulness of the Flood Pod Infectors when spores seemingly did the same thing but potentially better. This is a fair question and something I really wanted to discuss after writing the Flood spore lore post a year ago, so I hope I can offer some clarification.
So, while both type of Flood forms were broadly categorized as Flood Infection Forms in the new encyclopedia, both served different purposes, and one type was more suitable in situations where the other wasn't.
To Start off:

Pod Infectors

Arguably the most memorable of all Flood creatures, the Pod Infectors have appeared since the first game and were originally called simply as Infection forms, before this term became an umbrella label for different types of Flood forms sharing the same function.

Infection Forms:
All Infection forms share several key morphological traits across their variations, each suited for subduing and subverting any avaliable organic targets. The most commonly encountered Infection forms have a frond-like array, which act as the creature's sensory system, steming from soft, pod-shaped bodies filled with noxious gases that allow them to bound over the ground and obstacles at surprising speeds.
(Halo Encyclopedia 2022, p.406)

So, from this passage, we know that Pod Infectors had a good degree of mobility. In Halo Wars, it was even referenced that they could climb over cliffs, so rough terrains would not hinder their march.

Pod Infectors:
Though individually weak and easily killed, pod infectors strike in vast numbers and can move over cliffs.
(Halo Wars 2, Phoenix Log)

In contrasts, Flood spores had no means of self-propelled locomotion; they can only float aimlessly instead. The anime Halo Origins also shows us Pod Infectors that could perform guided flight. The reason why we haven't encountered these Flood types in the games might be due to the fact that the parasites were more evolved and more powerful during the Forerunner-Flood war.
So we clearly see that the regular Infection forms have an advantage over spores in maneuverability, but what matters more is another factor: Pod Infectors have weapons.

Infection Forms:
Each tendril ends in nano-scale barbs which can latch onto the target's body and cut through armor or environmental suits.
(Halo Wars 2, Phoenix Log)

While the virulence of Flood spores shouldn't be underestimated, the fact that they had virtually no offensive capabilities (they are usually just clusters holding Flood Super Cells together) means that decently protective gear such as fully-sealed environmental suits would be sufficient in keeping you safe in areas where the air is contaminated.
Moreover, Infection via a Pod Infector is by far the fastest method, which often just takes seconds to complete. This is due to the far higher dosages of spores being injected by a Pod Infector injects than infection via inhalation of spore-contaminated air.
And yes, Pod Infectors still use spores for infection.

343 Guilty Spark: "You can see how the body has been transformed by the genetic restructuring of the Flood infection. The small creatures carry spores that cause a host to mutate."
(Halo Combat Evolved, Level: The Library)

And after all, spores are just Flood cells grouped together.

Spore:
Encysted Flood cells form spores, which can remain dormant for centuries.
(Halo Encyclopedia 2022, p.404)

There's another usage for Pod Infectors, which is what we're all familiar with: to create and control Combat forms.
According to the encyclopedia, infection via spores would instead turn the hosts, living or dead, into incubation pods rather than mutating them into the typical Combat forms.

Spore:
Spores can parasite sapient and non-sapient species, consuming them and transforming their biomass into egg-like incubators for larger, more mobile Flood Infection forms.
(Halo Wars 2, Phoenix Logs)

These incubators are commonly called "Blisters" or "Flood eggs".
The necessity of a Pod Infector in order to create a Combat form is implied by another passage saying that the Flood cells in the wounds would transform the target into a Blister rather than a Combat form.

Infection forms:
Even if the infection form is quickly removed, Flood cells in the wounds will slowly consume the victim and turn them into quivering, spore-packed Blisters.
(Halo Wars 2, Phoenix Log)

This actually makes sense, since a Pod Infector does possess some rudimental level of sentience. This enables the creature to control the infection processes, while spores simply just convert original biomass into more Flood matters.
In action, Pod Infectors replaces the brain as the host's commanding "organ", controlling all functions, processing all knowledge and experience from the host, and absorbing them to the collective hive-consciousness.

Infection forms:
Though barely intelligent on their own, once an infection form infiltrates a sentient creature they turn the victim's cognitive power to the furtherance of Flood goals. Each is an insidious puppeteer, able to sift through memories of any sentient creature to learn of military countermeasures, security access codes, and the location of population centers.
(Halo Wars 2, Phoenix Log)

Pod Infectors can perform biological modification for the host.

Combat form:
The infection form does augment its new body and repair minor damage in order to better serve as a living weapon, but ultimately the combat form is utterly disposable.
(Halo Wars 2, Phoenix Log)

This comes in the form of alterations of the host's anatomical structures.

Combat forms possess unnatural physical strength, perhaps gained through the mutations of the host's musculoskeletal structures.
(Halo Encyclopedia 2009, p.165)

We've also seen some very extensive bodily restructuring, such as this human being grotesquely contorted.
Nevertheless, there are a few instances where the creation of Combat forms occured without Pod Infectors present.

1. UNSC marine Orlav was slashed in the back by a Combat form. Even when a piece of Flood flesh was removed, she turned into a Combat form not long after.
   
2. On the infested surface of Shield World 0459, one ODST mentioned he was bitten by the Flood before inevitably transforming into a Combat form.
   

No explanation has been given; my reasoning would be that both incidents happened near a Proto-Gravemind. One was in the engine room of UNSC Mona Lisa, and one was on Trove, so the respective Compound mind can assume direct control over the Flood easily by themselves.
All in all, Pod Infectors are the more direct threats. They are very agile, they have razor sharp claws, they convert victims far quicker than any other forms, and they can choose what they will do with their victims.
Now, what do Flood spores excel at?

Spores

• Subtle Propagating:

Unlike Pod Infectors, spores don't aggressively attack prey, which makes them seem as the lesser threats compared to other Flood presences. However, this works only in the Flood's own favor, as spores can spread further and under everyone's noses because the defenders are too occupied.
Moreover, the tendency of the spores to infest insignificant organisms as well as propogate on inanimate objects actually keep them and their growth under the radar.

How did it get there in the first place? Adequate wondered. It was highly improbable that the Flood could have arrived here independently. Yes, Flood spores could spread on meteors and comets, as well as derelict space equipment hurtling around the stars.
(Halo Fractures, Defender of the Storm)

In one short story, "Defender of the Storm", the Forerunner space station of Seclusion had pods filled with microscopic lifeforms that broke down biological wastes from the residents.

Worst of all, they had collectively decided the dirtiest assignment on the station should again fall to him: gathering up packs of the occupants’ waste for delivery to the digester units, one located at the end of each vane. Microorganisms inside the units broke down the foul matter to generate power, while releasing unwanted gases into the atmosphere.
(Halo Fractures, Defender of the Storm)

It was suggested that these pods were secretly tainted with Flood spores.

“Yes. The infestation likely began in the replacement digester units just installed by the service team.”
“The apparatus that breaks down waste. That’s why the outbreak started on the tips of the vanes.”
“Correct. They bring in fresh pods of microorganisms annually. Flood spores must have been mixed in with them and been awakened. ...
(Halo Fractures, Defender of the Storm)

The Ancilla further commented on the likelihood that Flood spores feasted on the microorganisms as well as the body wastes brought to those pods to further their growth.

"... The malleable seals would have given them a means of escape. They must have infected several of our sentries, taking them directly to combat forms—and their bodies gave rise to the infection forms we now see. I also suspect the Flood is drawing on the biomass in the digester pods to create an environment that might exponentially increase the rate and severity of infestation.”
(Halo Fractures, Defender of the Storm)

So spores eats everything... even shit or the soil, and unless you actively keep track of every surfaces and every hidden spaces, you're bound to miss pockets of infestation caused by spores.

• Self-Perpetuation

This is perhaps Flood spore's biggest advatange. The spores' reproduction and propagation processes are extremely efficient, even by Flood standard.
I'll be using the Blisters mentioned above as my examples.
According to official depictions, we can see that the hosts who were turned into Blisters are completely broken down and molded into large egg-shaped entities.
This is why I call it efficient, as there is no biomass that was left out or wasted. Spores eat everything and transform what they eat into more of themselves, but it doesn't end there.
As purpose-built forms, Blisters are created to produce more Flood creatures, ranging from simple Pod Infectors, to more complex Pure forms, and, you guess it, more Flood spores.

Blisters:
Non-sapient animals and mangled corpses deemed unfit for being harnessed into larger Combat forms are seeded with Flood cells and quickly transformed into sacs filled with Infection forms and membranes that function as incubation chambers for the development of spores.
(Halo Encyclopedia 2022, p.407)

For those instances where spores do turn their victims into Combat forms, one similarity remains.

Combat Form:
Combat Forms are covered in spore-filled polyps and much of their internal organs are in the process of being consumed and replaced with FSC accretions that function as support lattices, protecting a sickly green liquid that contains Flood spores in suspension.
(Halo, Encyclopedia 2022, p.408)

Combat forms additionally operate as mobile incubators and gestate spores, though they may produce a lower quantity. After all, unlike Blisters which are hosts whose entire body mass is transformed into a single-purposed and stationary pseudo-organ, Combat forms still need body parts for mobility, attack, and handling of salvaged equipment and technology.
Do be noted that this really isn't a new lore. It has been this case since the first game.

Guilty Spark: "The mutated host then produces spores that can pass the Flood to others. It is insidious and elegant. As long as any hosts remain, the Flood is virulent."
(Halo: Combat Evolved, Level The Library)

The fact that Combat forms spawn spores means that any physical harms inflicted on them...

Combat Form:
Ironically, damages incurred by this form scatters small chunks of infected flesh and distribute it in the environment, aiding the Flood in spreading its influence.
(Halo, Encyclopedia 2022, p.408)

... would inadvertently distribute fatally virulent substances everywhere.
And this trait isn't unique to Combat forms. Pod Infectors are stated by Guilty Spark to also carry spores, which I mentioned above.
Pure forms which are the products of masses of Flood Super Cells morphed into biological war machines would carry spores inside them as well. For example, we see the Spawner forms constantly emit clouds of spores from the holes on their back.
It's also stated that the Gravemind can create a huge quantity of spores by itself.

The Gravemind's tentacled body produces billions of Flood spores.
(Halo, Encyclopedia 2012, p.169)

Now the next and my final point.

• Building Infrastructure

I am now looking from a broader perspective — by combining all the characteristics discussed so far and tying them into the discussion about the Flood's modus operandi.
So, we know spores can spread and infest stealthily. We know spores can operate for a long duration of time. We know spores can consume practically anything organic. We know spores can create constructs to create more sproes (Blisters, Combat forms).
In fact, tiny spores can evolve into living Flood creatures...

The Gravemind:
The Flood is the ultimate parasite. It's able to use any sentient being as food, and those infected by the Flood stand no chance. Infection is a gradual process, whereby an Infection Form, grown from a tiny spore, bonds the victim to the Flood's central intelligence and slowly consumes the contents of the host creature's mind.
(Halo, Encyclopedia 2011, p.20)

All these traits combined make spores the integral aspect of the parasite's expansion and conquest.
To put it this way: Flood spores are products of the Flood infestation, and at the same time, they represent the parasite's ... "means of production".
The phenomenon of "Blightlands" best exemplify this.

Blightland:
For its part, the Flood will seek to adjust local environmental factors in its favor immediately after reaching the Coordinated stage. If not stopped, Blightlands are the result of uncontained Flood expansion: Areas around established hives filled with FSC growth and Spore bodies, which harvested the vitality of the soil, soak up solar energy, and consume all native lives within its boundaries.
(Halo Encyclopedia 2022, p.413)

Notice that the passage said "around" the hives?
In regards to Flood infestations, the parasites don't just build hives, which are either repurposed buildings or completely made out of pure biomass, but they also set up the fundations and infrastructures by seeding spores and other bioforms to the surrounding regions.
Basically, the Blightlands are Flood-controlled regions where spores and other growth gathered "resources", from lifeforms and latent energy alike, and the hives are the buildings and bases within the regions.
Blightlands also serve as foundations for future Flood structures and hives to build on top of. We've seen this at the start of the outbreak on High Charity, numerous disparate Flood growth of varying sizes appeared in the corridors and on walls. They continued to fester until they formed into a new hive that blanketed every surface areas there was.
There's more, but before I talk about that, there's an intriguing quote from the encyclopedia:

Hives:
The Flood's only desire is to expand and corrupt. Once enough biomass is available, the parasite can establish lairs for defense and the growth of specialized forms. ... These tumorous blights are the most obvious targets for attack and cleansing, but they are simply a sympton of Flood infestation, not its causes. The Forerunners recognized this distinction far too late, after countless sterilization missions resulted in empty victories.
(Halo Encyclopedia 2022, p.404)

Interestingly, destroying the hives wouldn't necessarily deliver the critical blow, and I think Flood spores' various attributes contribute to this phenomena.
We have concluded that Flood spores are incredibly common: All types of Flood forms carry and disperse spores either voluntarily or by outside factors (i.e. combat damage). This makes it easy for the Flood to cause environmental corruption over a large area, which will create Blightlands.
We also have concluded that spores are fruitful "building tools". When a spore land on an environment of ample bio-organic materials, they can feast on all the resources and convert them into Flood forms or structures, which eventually become new hives; it can be even described as "self-replicating".
This makes the Flood stand out from other factions in Halo. When the issue regarding manufacturing comes to mind, other races — other the Forerunners, are reliant on specialized instruments or facilities to process and refine raw substances and factories to fabricate products.
The Flood can do that with just their most basic vectors that all known Flood forms carry and generate; hives simply do things more efficiently and on a muuch larger scale.
The spores allow the parasite's "industry" to be decentralized, and the expansion wouldn't be crippled when the birthing hive is destroyed. Given enough time, another hive can arise from the surrounding Blightland.

TLDR

Pod Infectors possess superior mobility and actual weaponry. Their speed and ferocity make them suitable for building up an army, and their rudimentary intelligence makes them much better at managing a fighting force.
Spores are adept at facilitating a comprehensive and expanding network of infrastructure, which they can do without the enemy's notice. Spores may work slower, but their subtlety and pervasiveness make them extremely dangerous threats, especially when their infestation goes unnoticed or uncontained for too long.

Content of the Article: 1 Basics of Meditation; 2 Meditation Entrance; 3 Tactile Hallucinations; 4 Merits and Virtues of Meditation; 5 Clairaudience; 6 Clairvoyance; 7 Teleportation; 8 Clairsentience.
What is Meditation? The Compendium of Buddhism defines meditation as mind cultivation. Mundane people do not have enough hallucinational experiences to understand the phenomena of ghosts Buddhas and gods; the practice of meditation can make up such insufficiencies. Through these experiences of many different states of mind and body, the practitioner can grow celestial eye (which is a metaphor for meditation experiences) and testify “intellectual testament of birth and death”.
1 Basics of Meditation
The practice of meditation is concerned with three adjustments, the adjustment of posture, the adjustment of breath, and the adjustment of heart (i.e., mind). I) A cross-legged sitting posture is best, the straighter the spine the better. The eyes are closed, and the gaze is directed inward toward the area of concentration, as in the so-called Eye watches Nose, Nose watches Mouth, and Mouth watches heart. The tongue is rolled upwards with the tip of the tongue at the root of the front upper teeth.
II) Breathing should be as deep, long, thin, and even as possible. Author me adopts abdominal breathing, i.e., when inhaling, I imagine breathing into my chest (i.e., right under center line of breastplate) or Lower Dantian (i.e., 3 inches under navel), with my lower abdomen bulging out. When exhaling, the lower abdomen is deflated and the chest is lifted, breathing like animals such as cats and dogs.
III) In the sense that both the body and the external world are projections of the heart: my heart is the universe; the universe is my heart. Interests and intentions control the direction of the heart, which means where the intention dwells, where the heart is formed, so turning the heart is talking about where the intention dwells, or where it is directed to. First coarse tuning, the author, when I was a teenager practicing meditation commonly used this spell to harmonize the internal and external environment of the body and heart (i.e., mind). The passing gods and spirits above sky, the lord of this land, the lonely souls in the wilderness, and the devils underground bear witness to me. I now swear that when I, Luyan, practice meditation today, I am not doing it just for myself, nor just for my family and friends, but for countless and boundless sentient beings. If I learn to be successful, I will return the favor to countless and boundless all living beings.
2 Meditation Entrance
Beginners have this transition phase. Close your eyes and look inward at the Middle Dantian (i.e., right under center line of breastplate). On inhalation, one's intention (think this way, think like this) is that the true air (i.e., warm feelings) slowly tends to the chest along with the inhalation; one feels (one's intention is all in the sensation) that the true air is sucked up to the chest. Exhale naturally without any intentional action. After a few times of practice, the true air will be gathered in the Middle Dantian.
In the beginning, Meditator uses the Middle Dantian, and after the true air has gathered in the chest, pushes the true air towards the Dantian (i.e., Lower Dantian, 3 inches under navel) with suction force; this is called Transporting Air. After the true air has established a base in the Dantian, Meditator always uses the Dantian as the home base and the other acupoints practiced as the line camps. When the true air reaches a certain acupoint (all technical words refer to Chinese Acupoints Chart), it triggers corresponding hallucinations of touching, hearing, and so on.
After practicing for some time, beginners may feel a steady flow of true air to the Dantian as inhaling; at this point, the Ren Mai has been opened. The Ren Mai is the middle line on the surface of the body from the lower jaw to the Dantian. Subsequently, Meditator can practice opening the whole circle of meridians, etc., according to the diagrams of acupuncture. Or Meditator just guards the Dantian to accumulate more and more true air. That true air is tactile hallucinations, so accumulating more and more of it, eventually will trigger the phenomena described later.
3 Tactile Hallucinations
The phenomena of the true air transportation described above is called tactile hallucinations in modern psychology. As the meditator continues to progress, more hallucinations will appear. Where the true air cannot pass through, it will stagnate, manifesting phenomena such as distension, pain, and so on. Meditator may also encounter many more, such as moving touch (the throbbing of localized flesh on a limb), itching, coolness, warmth, lightness, heaviness (localized heaviness of the body), astringency, smoothness, ripples (such as a finger or droplet of water touching the skin or limb), joy, anger, sadness, happiness, crying, and so on.
Meditator may also encounter phenomena such as the body wobbling, getting bigger, smaller, or floating; a flow of air under the skin; someone or something tapping you; and a bug or a small mouse running under or on the skin. When there is something running under the skin, if the Meditator is practicing with his eyes open, he can even see that the skin bulges where that thing is running. When something runs on the skin, the Meditator can even see that a concave place (the footprint of that thing) appears. In ancient times, there were many names for the above phenomena, such as naughty ghosts, tickling ghosts, and so on.
How do you remove tactile hallucinations? The usual approach is to reprimand, e.g., Go! Go away! Leave me alone. After a few times or weeks, when unconsciousness receives the message, the hallucination will be restrained. In addition, stroking or tapping the Baihui acupoint on the top of the head is helpful in absorbing the hallucinating air into the meridians. You can also remove hallucinations by touching the place of hallucination with your hands, other things such as bathing.
The reader may wonder why it is necessary to utter or say aloud, go away, I don't like you. A: The unconscious (i.e., God-sense) only accepts the present quantity. Generally, direct physical and verbal behavior can be received by the unconscious; while information about thoughts and intentional behaviors (i.e., intents, plans) are poorly received or not received.
4 Merits and Virtues of Meditation
When Meditator has already mastered and become accustomed to the basic techniques mentioned above, and prefers to study supernormal capabilities, the following periods of time are better, with a strong sense of air, and are prone to triggering hallucinations. Around 12:00 noon, around 6:00 p.m., and from around 12:00 midnight to around 6:00 a.m.; these are what the ancients called Zi Wu Mao You. Some people say that these time periods attract demons, and they especially avoid these time periods. Many of the hallucinatory phenomena are what people call devils, but we meditators call those states as Stillness, and we call those ghosts, gods, devils, and other hallucinatory experiences in them as merits and virtues. Why do we call those merits and virtues?
When I was a child, once Uncle Dragon told me, for example, that a little girl felt a little mouse running around in her body, so she was very scared and got sick. The parents went to the temple and asked the Great Virtue Master. Upon hearing this, the Great Virtue Master said, "Ah! It's nothing! I had that phenomenon when I was a child, and it was nothing harmful; ignore it, or drive it away, hit it a little, and speak out and say to it, 'Go away! I don't like you!' Maybe two or three times, after a month or two, that stopped happening." As a result, the little girl was cured. The other monks in this temple looked and listened, and wondered: why, when Master Great Virtue said a few words, did that person get well? Through observation, they realized that Master Great Virtue had virtue (i.e., that kind of experience) in him. Because he had virtue in him, he said a few words, and when the patient heard them, she was cured.
Uncle Dragon also told me. The virtue in the Great Virtue Master is not easy to come by, not only the insights he gained from his hard work in practicing meditation, but also the fact that he was probably engaged in many kinds of industries and knew the secrets of many kinds of industries, and those experiences are also merits and virtues.
5 Clairaudience
As Meditator’s capability rises, the senses of touch and hearing and sight become acute. Before falling asleep, the Meditator may hear his or her own heartbeat. According to modern psychological analysis, the sound of hearing one's own heartbeat before going to sleep is caused by the contraction and dilatation of blood vessels near the small bones of the ear. Meditators may experience auditory hallucinations such as whistling, hissing, ticking, whimpering, birds chirping, water running, frogs chirping, wind blowing in a cave, rain, thunder, etc.; or someone discussing a problem as if they were in a meeting, or someone greeting them, or someone telling them something.
As Meditator continues to study and understand, understands that the objectives are projected and held by internal considerations, and thus proves the Celestial Ear through, Celestial Leg Through, and the Others Heart through, etc. intelligences and gnosis. Later in this article, we will explain these kinds of godly powers in terms of visual hallucinations, which are the same as this Celestial Ear through. How do you remove auditory hallucinations? The usual approach is to scold, such as, "Go away! Do not bother me! Leave me alone." After a few times, when the unconscious receives the message, the hallucination is suppressed.
6 Clairvoyance
Visual hallucinations are what the celestial eye sees, and the following are examples of several phenomena in the world of visual hallucinations.
（1. Function Flies to Have）
One day, when I was a child, I was meditating when I suddenly saw a book flying in front of my head. I thought to myself, "What is that? It's too far away to see clearly, but it would be nice to see it closer! The book flew closer. I thought, "Oh! You're still alive, you have intelligence! The book wiggled as if it knew what I meant and bounced with joy. I then said (thinking): are you really an intelligent living thing? And the book wiggled again. I'm like, "Then where did you come from? What do you want from me? The book wiggled a lot, like it was in a terrible hurry.
At this time, the hallucinational environment was a little unstable, so I hurriedly concentrated, adjusting to maintain the hallucination, while thinking: you can't talk, so I won't ask; the front of this book is like this, then what is the back like? Immediately, the picture of that book presented its back. At this point I was happy again and had nothing to do. After reading it for a while, I got bored of it. The book flew away. When the hallucination ended, I also ended my meditation. I felt relief all over my body, and there was a sensation of subtle electric currents on the surface of my body.
（2. Demon Phenomena）
One morning when I was in junior high school, I woke up especially early, about three o'clock in the morning, in order to prepare for an exam. After reading a book for a while, I was sleepy and fell asleep, so I lay on my back on the bed, with my head against the south wall, and habitually did the breathing of practicing meditation several times. As a result of practicing for a long time, the tip of my tongue was always at the root of my front upper teeth.
Suddenly, I felt that the upper right side of my head was empty, (it was a wall), and there were a couple of faces that looked like children's drawings, glittering. I thought, "What's that? I can draw with my feet better than you guys!” I was in trouble! The glowing faces came at me in a line and hit me on the right side of my forehead.
At that time, due to my habit of practicing meditation, I did not react easily to changing my posture. I was still feeling the state of my whole body, and I felt that the skin and flesh of my face, abdomen, and legs were all deformed and moving in a wave-like manner toward the part of my right forehead where I had been hit. The deformation of the skin of my face was so strong that I hurriedly pushed the skin of my face back with my hands. Feeling that it worked well, I followed it up by pressing and pushing the skin and flesh on my abdomen to reset. Then I quickly stood up and reset the skin and flesh of my legs and whole body. By the time I was done, I was sweating. The good thing is that I didn't notice any soft tissue strains and my whole body quickly returned to normal.
It makes no difference whether the phenomena mentioned earlier are called hallucinations or demons; the key is to understand the truth. In the world of hallucination, all animals, plants, and inanimate mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas are equal. From then on, I began to pay attention to politeness, keep the precepts, and try to respect anything, living or inanimate. This is because of practicing meditation, so that I conscientiously obey the precepts. The precepts emanate from within my own body, are Path Fruits.
Remove the visual hallucination in the same way as above: whatever it is, either communicate politely as if you were treating a six- or seven-year-old child or shoo it away. Visual hallucinations respond directly to reprimands, for example, if you tell it to leave, it leaves. Whereas auditory hallucinations are slower to respond, usually taking a few days; tactile hallucinations are even slower to respond and can take weeks.
7 Teleportation
Stepping into a painting is when, in meditation, staring at something in the hallucination may be mindful of curiosity, fascination, and then, as above, an instantaneous change of objective target. What gives rise to Celestial Leg, i.e., instant translocation, teleportation, is that such objective targets change so much that even the whole environment changes within an instant, as if coming to another place in an instant, see the cases in Section 15.1, and the cases below.
In hallucination, the environment usually changes to match the mind, and the objective is based on the thinks, or saying that the objective environment is think brought there. The omnipresent heartland law Think is by fetch image as nature. For example, on a very hot evening, I was meditating and the hallucination I just entered was of an evening hillside. I feel very cool. When I saw the grass fluctuating, as if a wind was blowing, I thought: a little wind is good, it's cooler. In this world, the wind became stronger. I thought: this wind is getting stronger, as if it is going to rain. In this world, it was raining. I thought rain is good, because the crops are dry now; it's good that it's raining more! And the rain became heavier. I thought: No good! Where am I? It's raining so hard; if there's a flood, where can I run to? The flood came.
8 Clairsentience
Once in meditation I saw a beautiful woman. Looking, looking I thought, "It seems like her cheekbones are a little high." This beautiful woman suddenly turned into a skeleton. I was scared out of my vision and realized that I was sweating all over. I was still thinking: "It's just to look at you, why are you scaring me!" Then I thought: yes, of course, people don't want to when I stare at them that much. I still have to keep the precepts properly, don't look at if it is not polite!
In conjunction with the above example, use a few lines from Master Sangchan's Inscription on Faith to explain what happened above: 1. return to get the purpose, 2. lose the sect with the illumination, 3. the illumination returns simultaneously, 4. more victorious than the former emptiness, 5. the former emptiness is transformed, 6. it is all due to the illusion of (It seems like her CHEEKBONES are a little high) the mind. The reader can bring these six sentences into the previous paragraph to interpret Clairsentience or Reading Others Mind.
The end.

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Welcome back to the Reformed UPG of the Week! This week, Joshua Project seems to be having a DNS error (or attack?) so I am going to again re-do an older post that I did a few years ago and also pull some info from PeopleGroups.org. Meet the Tay of Vietnam!

Region: North Vietnam

low quality map bc JP wont load
Stratus Index Ranking (Urgency): 66
It has been noted to me by u/JCmathetes that I should explain this ranking. Low numbers are more urgent, both physically and spiritually together, while high numbers are less urgent. The scale is 1-177, with one number assigned to each country. So basically on a scale from Afghanistan (1) to Finland (177), how urgent are the peoples physical and spiritual needs.

The Stratus Index - Synthesizes reliable data from different sources to clearly display the world’s most urgent spiritual and physical needs.
The vast majority of missions resources go to people and places already Reached by the Gospel, while only 3% of missionaries and 1% of missions money are deployed among the Unreached. This is the Great Imbalance. As a result, there are more people without access to the Gospel today than a decade ago. Stratus seeks to equip the global church with fresh vision to accomplish the Great Commission by addressing some of the factors that perpetuate the Great Imbalance. We hope this tool allows the church to better understand what steps will be required to overcome the barriers that prevent needs from being met, spurring informed and collaborative missions strategy. Stratus Website

Hanoi
Quay Son River
Climate: Due to differences in latitude and the marked variety in topographical relief, Vietnam's climate tends to vary considerably for each region. During the winter or dry season, extending roughly from November to April, the monsoon winds usually blow from the northeast along the Chinese coast and across the Gulf of Tonkin, picking up considerable moisture. The average annual temperature is generally higher in the plains than in the mountains, especially in southern Vietnam compared to the north. Temperatures vary less in the southern plains around Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, ranging from between 21 and 35 °C (70 and 95 °F) over the year. In Hanoi and the surrounding areas of the Red River Delta, the temperatures are much lower between 15 and 33 °C (59 and 91 °F). Seasonal variations in the mountains, plateaus, and the northernmost areas are much more dramatic, with temperatures varying from 3 °C (37 °F) in December and January to 37 °C (99 °F) in July and August. During winter, snow occasionally falls over the highest peaks of the far northern mountains near the Chinese border. Vietnam receives high rates of precipitation in the form of rainfall with an average amount from 1,500 to 2,000 mm (60 to 80 in) during the monsoon seasons; this often causes flooding, especially in the cities with poor drainage systems. The country is also affected by tropical depressions, tropical storms and typhoons.
Rice Terraces in Vietnam
Terrain: Vietnam's northern terrain is mostly mountainous or hilly, with some highland areas covered by a thick green blanket of jungle (about half the total land area). The Red River Delta and coastal plains in the lowland part of the North are heavily populated and intensively cultivated (almost entirely by rice fields).
The joined Delta of Hong River (Red River) and Thái Bình River is a flat, triangular region of 15,000 square kilometers. The Hong River Delta is smaller but more intensely developed and more densely populated than the Mekong Delta. Once an inlet of the Gulf of Tonkin, it has been filled in by the enormous alluvial deposits of the rivers over a period of millennia, and it advances one hundred meters into the Gulf annually.The ancestral home of the ethnic Vietnamese, the delta accounted for almost 70% of the agriculture and 80% of the industry of North Vietnam before 1975.
The Red River, rising in China's Yunnan Province, is about 1,200 kilometers long. Its two main tributaries, the Sông Lô (also called the Lo River, the Riviere Claire, or the Clear River) and the Sông Đà (also called the Black River or Riviere Noire), contribute to its high water volume, which averages 4,300 cubic meters per second.
The entire delta region, backed by the steep rises of the forested highlands, is no more than three meters above sea level, and much of it is one meter or less. The area is subject to frequent flooding; at some places the high-water mark of floods is fourteen meters above the surrounding countryside. For centuries flood control has been an integral part of the delta's culture and economy. An extensive system of dikes and canals has been built to contain the Red River and to irrigate the rich rice-growing delta. Modeled on that of China's, this ancient system has sustained a highly concentrated population and has made double-cropping wet-rice cultivation possible throughout about half the region.
The central mountains, which have several high plateaus, are irregular in elevation and form. The northern section is narrow and very rugged; the country's highest peak, Fan Si Pan, rises to 3,142 meters in the extreme northwest. The southern portion has numerous spurs that divide the narrow coastal strip into a series of compartments. For centuries these topographical features not only rendered north–south communication difficult but also formed an effective natural barrier for the containment of the people living in the Mekong basin.
The Mekong Delta, covering about 40,000 square kilometers, is a low-level plain not more than three meters above sea level at any point and criss-crossed by a maze of canals and rivers. So much sediment is carried by the Mekong's various branches and tributaries that the delta advances sixty to eighty meters into the sea every year. An official Vietnamese source estimates the amount of sediment deposited annually to be about 1 billion cubic meters, or nearly thirteen times the amount deposited by the Red River. About 10,000 square kilometers of the delta are under rice cultivation, making the area one of the major rice-growing regions of the world. The southern tip, known as the Cà Mau Peninsula is covered by dense jungle and mangrove swamps.
Ha Long Bay
Wildlife of Vietnam: Faunal species noted are accounted as 11,217 species of animals, in Vietnam's hot and humid climate. These are broadly: Indian elephants, bears (black bear and honey bear), Indochinese tigers and Indochinese leopards as well as smaller animals like pygmy lorises, monkeys (such as snub-nosed monkey), bats, flying squirrels, turtles and otters. Reptiles such as crocodiles, snakes and lizards are also reported. Specifically the faunal species which are endemic to Vietnam are the following. While many variety of animals have become extinct like the Northern Sumatran rhinoceros, the protection of large animals have been addressed. The Vietnamese Javan rhinoceros used to live throughout the region of Vietnam but was declared extinct in 2010 when the last remaining individual was found dead with the horn removed.
Unfortunately, they have monkeys.
Wild elephant in Vietnam
Environmental Issues: The main overall issue that Vietnam is currently dealing with surrounds environmental pollution. This includes a lack of clean water supply, waste water, air pollution, and solid waste. Not only do these issues effect Vietnam, but also its population, urbanization, and surrounding countries.
Languages: Vietnamese is the national language. Also in Vietnam, French, Tày, Cham, Khmer, Chinese, Nùng, and Hmong. The Tay speak Tay.
Government Type: Unitary Marxist–Leninist one-party socialist republic

People: Tay in Vietnam

Tay women
Population: 1,835,000
Estimated Foreign Workers Needed: [Joshua Project is down]
Beliefs: The Tay are 1% Christian. That means out of their population of 1,835,000, there are roughly 18,000 believers. Thats about 1 believer for every 100 unbeliever.
The Tay worship a multitude of gods. Ancestor worship (praying to deceased ancestors for protection and guidance) is commonly practiced. The Tay are also animistic (believe that non-living objects have spirits).
Traditionally, most Tay villages had temples where they worshipped a multitude of gods associated with earth, water, fire, and important ancestors. Many other spirits and ghosts were also worshipped. The major ceremony of the year was held at the beginning of the farming season, when the various deities were asked permission to prepare the farm and plant the seeds. Folk literature and art were also of importance in religious life.Traditionally, most Tay villages had temples where they worshipped a multitude of gods associated with earth, water, fire, and important ancestors. Many other spirits and ghosts were also worshipped. The major ceremony of the year was held at the beginning of the farming season, when the various deities were asked permission to prepare the farm and plant the seeds. Folk literature and art were also of importance in religious life.
The Tay worship a multitude of gods. Ancestor worship (praying to deceased ancestors for protection and guidance) is commonly practiced. The Tay are also animistic (believe that non-living objects have spirits) The Tay have a strong belief in supernatural. Worshiping their ancestors is the most invaluable ritual of the Tay. The altars for the ancestors are placed in a central location in the house. The altar room is such a sacred place that guests is not allowed to sit on the bed in front of the altar.
Their polytheistic belief system consists of worshiping spirits, ancestors, and midwives. Astrology is also an important part of their belief system. For instance, for marriages and building new houses they consult astrology. The cult of the midwife is especially worshiped. After the wedding, the wife stays with her parents during her pregnancy to avoid evil spirits. When a child is born, there’s the one-month ritual for honoring the midwife.
Tay people praying before an altar
History: The Tày were originally known as the Thổ people. Thổ is derived from Chinese tǔ (土), which means 'land' and 'local'. Although not inherently a pejorative it was often used as such in practice (cf. "bumpkin") in both Vietnam and China. Under the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Thổ was deemed a pejorative and substituted with Tày
The Tày are closely related to the Nùng people and Zhuang people, who they are culturally and linguistically almost "indistinguishable from". (pulled this from Wikipedia. this sounds racist and probably not entirely true)
Although they are considered an indigenous group, portions of their population likely originated in China during the 11th and 12th centuries. However unlike the Nùng, they were more heavily Vietnamized due to their closer proximity to the Kinh and shared similar cultural practices with the Vietnamese such as lacquering their teeth black. By 1900 around 30% of their language was made of Vietnamese loan words.
Tày customs were altered greatly due to Vietnamese and Confucian patriarchal structures, however some customs persisted. Polygamy with multiple equal wives and legitimacy of issue was practiced. Marriage was preferred to occur within the clan. Young wives lived with their parents until giving birth to their first child. Tày women, like those of the Nùng and Zhuang, were said to have used poison to seek revenge when wronged.
At the end of the 1700s when Vietnam was in chaos, several ethnic groups united with the native groups of Thai speaking peoples. These people became known as the Tho. Today, they are regarded as an official minority in Vietnam. They prefer to be known as "Tay," since the term "Tho" is now considered derogatory.
Tay village (i think)
Culture: Typical qualification that all people groups can't be summed up in small paragraphs and this is an over generalization.
The Tay are farmers who have a long tradition or wet rice cultivation. They have a long history of intensive cultivation and irrigation methods like digging canals, laying water pipes, etc. They also maintain the custom of harvesting the rice and thrashing the grains out on wooden racks, which they call loong, while still in the fields, then carrying the threshed rice home in baskets. In addition to cultivating wet fields,the Tay also plant rice on terraced fields along with the other crops and fruit trees. Cattle and poultry raising are well-developed, but a free range style of animal husbandry is still popular. Household crafts are worthy of note. The most famous Tay craft is weaving brocaded designs of beautiful and original patterns which are highly prized. The market is also an important economic activity.
The Tay have developed a rich culture of poems, songs, epics, tales, funny stories, and dance. Popular folk songs of the Tay are call-and-response singing, lullaby, Then, and wedding and funeral singing. Then is sung at events such as worshiping at the ancestral altar, praying for sick people, praying for a couple to have children, at family get-togethers, to welcome guests, and at a “going to the field” festival held in the first month of the new year. Then is an indispensable part of the spiritual and religious life of the Tay.The Tay have developed a rich culture of poems, songs, epics, tales, funny stories, and dance. Popular folk songs of the Tay are call-and-response singing, lullaby, Then, and wedding and funeral singing. Then is sung at events such as worshiping at the ancestral altar, praying for sick people, praying for a couple to have children, at family get-togethers, to welcome guests, and at a “going to the field” festival held in the first month of the new year. Then is an indispensable part of the spiritual and religious life of the Tay.
The Tay’s Quang regime is a form of social organization which resembles a feudal system that is aristocratic and hereditary. Within its rule region, the Quang owns all lands, forests, rivers, etc. Hence, it has the right to control everyone who lives on that land and to exploit these people through forced labor, imposing duties on commodities, and enforcing the payment of tributes and offerings. The Quang regime appeared very early and persisted until the end of the 19th century or the beginning of the 20th century. Tay families are usually small and the line of descent is traced through the father. Children begin school at six years of age and older. There, they begin studying the Vietnamese language. Young people choose their own marriage partners, and after a betrothal ceremony, many marriage rituals are performed. The groom is expected to perform some work for the bride's family as payment
The traditional dress is made from indigo dyed cotton. It is usually plain, with little embroidery or other decoration. The women wear a simple shirt with silver buttons down the front teamed with black trousers. Both sexes wear colorful head scarves. Nowadays the Tay are often seen wearing Viet and western clothes.
The Tay are mostly peasants who live in the low, sloping mountains between the high mountains and the plains of southeast Asia. They grow wet rice and use slash and burn techniques to grow dry rice, maize, buckwheat, watercress, sugar cane, and other vegetables. They grow hemp and use it for making bags and nets for fishing. They sell or exchange products for household items and use forest products for food.
The Tay have settled in valleys in the Northeastern part of the country: Quang Ninh, Bac Giang, Lang Son, Cao Bang, Bac Can, Thai Nguyen, Ha Giang, Tuyen Quang, Lao Cai, Yen Bai. Their villages are characteristically large and crowded, and there are villages with hundreds of houses. The Tay traditional house is built on stilts with a frame of rafters and 4, 5, 6, or 7 rows of columns. A house has from 2 to 4 roofs made from tiles, straw, or palm leaves. Wood or bamboo is used to make the walls. The Tay always build at the foot of a mountain. They call the name of the villages after a mountain, field, or river where they live. Each village has about 15-20 households, some big villages can contain hundreds of roofs. The Tay mainly live in houses built on the ground. These houses are private property, as are their accompanying gardens. However, there are still some Tay who live in houses built on stilts. The architecture of these homes is simple, without the fancy gables and decorative work commonly seen on other houses. Today, nearly all the Tay are part of a collectivized agricultural program in the form of community (collective) farms. Farm land is seen as community property that people are free to use, but not own.
Villages used to be the center of economic activity, with local markets rotating among a series of villages and trading mainly with the Vietnamese and Chinese communities. Today, however, the Tay have been primarily assimilated into the Vietnamese society. Traditionally, the Tay were master hunters. They used traps, cages, and automatically triggered arrows. Today, they hunt very little because of the changed ecological conditions.
Tay traditional dress is made from homegrown cotton that is indigo dyed. There is usually not much embroidery or other decorations. Women wear skirts or trousers, with short shirts inside and long one worn on the outside. The Ngan group wears shorter shirts, the Phen group wears brown shirts, the Thu Lao group wears conical-shaped scarves on their heads, the Pa Di group wears hats that look like house roofs, and the Tho group tend to dress like the Thai in Mai Chau (Hoa Binh province).
Tay Traditional Dress
Cuisine: In the past, in several places, the Tay ate mainly sticky rice, and almost every family used stew and steam pots for cooking. On festival occasions, they make many kinds of cakes, such as square rice cakes (banh chung), round rice cake (banh day), black rice sesame cake (banh gai), lime-water dumpling, fried rice cake, marble dumplings made of rice white rice flour with rock sugar fillings, patty make of mashed rice, etc. There are special cakes made from flour with an ant egg filling, and com, a young rice confection made from smoked sticky rice, roasted, and pounced. Other famous dishes among these peoples are Five-color Sticky Rice, Thang Den cake, Ha Giang sausages, and Grilled “Bỗng” Fish.
Thang den’ (floating sticky rice cake)
Prayer Request:

• Pray for the missionaries currently there, that God would protect them and guard them, their ministry, and their disciples.
• Pray the Christian believers among the Tay will be sent teachers to help them become well established in the faith. Pray they will find each other and love each other in order to fellowship together faithfully
• Pray they will learn to live in the power of Christ's Spirit, experiencing the fruit of Christ's Spirit consistently.
• Ask God to raise up prayer teams here and abroad that will break up the ground through worship and intercession.
• Ask the Lord to send long term laborers to live among the Tay of Vietnam and share the love of Christ with them.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to grant favor to Christians currently ministering to the Tay of Vietnam.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to soften the hearts of the people toward Christians so that they will be receptive to the Gospel.
• Pray against Putin and his insane little war.
• Pray for our nation (the United States), that we Christians can learn to come alongside our hurting brothers and sisters and learn to carry one another's burdens in a more Christlike manner than we have done historically.
• Pray that in this time of an upcoming election and insanity that the needs of the unreached are not forgotten by the church. Pray that our hearts continue to ache to see the unreached hear the Good News.

Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. (Romans 10:1)
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Here are the previous weeks threads on the UPG of the Week for from 2023 (plus a few from 2022 so this one post isn't so lonely). To save some space on these, all UPG posts made 2019-now are here, I will try to keep this current!

People Group	Country	Continent	Date Posted	Beliefs
Tay (updated)	Vietnam	Asia	06/10/2024	Animism
Sunda (updated)	Indonesia	Asia	06/03/2024	Islam
Malay (updated)	Malaysia	Asia	05/27/2024	Islam
Jewish Peoples	United States	North America	05/06/2024	Judaism
Jordanian Arab	Jordan	Asia	04/29/2024	Islam
Bouyei	China	Asia	04/22/2024	Animism
Arab Libyans	Libya	Africa	03/25/2024	Islam
Gafsa Amazigh	Tunisia	Africa	03/18/2024	Islam
Hindi	South Africa	Africa	03/04/2024	Hinduism
Arabs	Iraq	Asia	02/26/2024	Islam
Bagirmi Fulani	Central African Republic	Africa	02/12/2024	Islam
Gujarati	Portugal	Europe	02/05/2024	Hinduism
Western Cham	Cambodia	Asia	01/29/2024	Islamc
Yadav	India	Asia	01/22/2024	Hinduism
Thai (updated)	Thailand	Asia	12/18/2023	Buddhism
Bayad	Mongolia	Asia	12/11/2023	Buddhism
Bedouin (Suafa)	Algeria	Africa	12/04/2023	Islam
Aboriginal (Reached)	Australia	Oceania	11/27/2023	Christian

a - Tibet belongs to Tibet, not China.
b - Russia/Turkey/etc is Europe but also Asia so...
c - this likely is not the true religion that they worship, but rather they have a mixture of what is listed with other local religions, or they have embraced a liberal drift and are leaving faith entirely but this is their historical faith.
Here is a list of definitions in case you wonder what exactly I mean by words like "Unreached".
Here is a list of missions organizations that reach out to the world to do missions for the Glory of God.

Whether you’re in the mood for a gripping drama, an exhilarating action film, or a heart warming musical, HBO Max offers a diverse selection of movies to fit your next streaming session.
Known for its original series like The Sopranos and The Wire, the platform has expanded its offerings to include feature-length films that often find their way to award nominations and critical acclaim.
From iconic Westerns to the latest Oscar nominees, Max has a movie for every taste. You’ll find everything from spine-chilling horror to laugh-out-loud comedies and captivating fantasy films. Be sure to explore the extensive library, as some titles might not stay available for long.

1. Stop Making Sense

Stop Making Sense is a groundbreaking concert film directed by Jonathan Demme, capturing the innovative live performances of Talking Heads.
Filmed at the iconic Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles, this 1984 rockumentary was created over four shows with a modest budget raised by the band themselves.
The film is famed for its minimalist filming style and memorable moments, such as David Byrne’s oversized suit. This approach allows the band’s artistic flair to truly shine, creating an experience that transcends traditional concert films and resonates as a unique piece of performance art. You can explore more about this concert film's 40th anniversary on HBO Max.

2. Mad Max

Mad Max, the film that launched a genre-defining franchise, initially seemed like a standalone project.
Directed by George Miller and starring Mel Gibson as Max Rockatansky, the narrative explores a law enforcer seeking vengeance against a notorious biker gang. Max’s tragic loss of his family sets the stage for his transformation into a relentless avenger in a lawless, post-apocalyptic world.
The series has expanded remarkably since its inception 45 years ago. Besides the original Mad Max, you can binge-watch the sequels on Max: 1981’s The Road Warrior, 1985’s Beyond Thunderdome, and 2015’s Fury Road.
An exciting development for fans is the upcoming release of Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, featuring Anya Taylor-Joy as Imperator Furiosa. This highly anticipated addition to the series premieres later this month, continuing the legacy of intense action and sociopolitical commentary that Mad Max pioneered.

3. The Killing of a Sacred Deer

The Killing of a Sacred Deer by director Yorgos Lanthimos, known for works like Poor Things, combines dark humor with unsettling drama.
You will follow the life of Steven Murphy, played by Colin Farrell, a respected surgeon. His seemingly perfect life, complete with a loving wife (Nicole Kidman) and children, begins to unravel after he meets Martin, portrayed by Barry Keoghan.
Martin is an awkward teenager dealing with the loss of his father, and what starts as a compassionate gesture by Murphy quickly turns into a nightmarish scenario reminiscent of Sophie’s Choice. Lanthimos' unique style masterfully blends comedy with deep emotional moments, making this film an evocative experience.

4. The Zone of Interest

In 1943, Rudolf Höss (Christian Friedel), the commandant of Auschwitz, oversaw the horrific workings of the concentration camp. When he returned home, he entered the so-called Zone of Interest, a place eerily close to the camp.
Here, Höss resided with his wife Hedwig (Sandra Hüller) and their five children.
Daily life for the Höss family involved an attempt to build an idyllic existence within their household.
Background noise, such as the sounds of gunshots, arriving trains, and burning furnaces, was a constant reminder of the realities just beyond their walls. This unsettling juxtaposition captures the chilling essence of Jonathan Glazer’s Oscar-winning film, presenting a stark contrast between domestic normalcy and unimaginable brutality.

5. Black Swan

Natalie Portman delivers a remarkable performance in Black Swan, a dark ballet drama directed by Darren Aronofsky.
Portraying Nina Sayers, a dedicated dancer with the New York City Ballet, Portman's character lives under the shadow of her overbearing mother, played by Barbara Hershey.
Her mother’s own failed ballet career drives her to push Nina towards artistic perfection.
Nina's world dramatically changes when she secures the lead role in a new production of Swan Lake. The twist? She shares the role with Lily, portrayed by Mila Kunis.
Lily, an adventurous and carefree dancer, becomes both a close companion and a fierce competitor. This duality propels Nina into a spiral of obsession and rivalry.
Aronofsky’s directing amplifies Nina's emotional turmoil, making you experience every intense moment.
As Nina's grip on reality weakens, the film skillfully integrates surreal elements with her deepening madness, capturing the viewer’s attention throughout the narrative. Black Swan stands out as a masterpiece in both psychological horror and modern cinema.

6. Good Time

Good Time is regarded as an exceptionally underrated film from the past couple of decades.
Released in 2017, the movie stars Robert Pattinson and is directed by the Safdie Brothers, Benny and Josh.
Pattinson plays Connie Nikas, a small-time criminal always seeking his next big opportunity. His partner in crime is his developmentally disabled brother Nick, portrayed by Benny Safdie.
Their story centers around a bank robbery that goes awry, leading to Nick's arrest.
Connie is then thrust into a relentless struggle to rescue his brother.
The narrative is fast-paced and gripping, reminiscent of the frantic energy found in another Safdie Brothers’ film, Uncut Gems.
As you watch, you will feel the tension and urgency that drive Connie to take drastic measures.
If you're seeking a visceral and thrilling crime drama, Good Time is a compelling choice. Now available on Max, it is an excellent opportunity for both first-time viewers and those wanting to revisit its thrilling sequences.

7. Wonka

Timothée Chalamet plays Willy Wonka in a delightful origin story driven by Roald Dahl’s imaginative chocolatier.
Directed by Paul King, known for Paddington, this film offers a new take on the character. While it doesn't quite capture the magic of Gene Wilder's performance in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, it is certainly an improvement over Tim Burton’s 2005 version.

8. Dream Scenario

Nicolas Cage's portrayal of Paul Matthews in Dream Scenario is a standout example of his versatility.
Cage plays an unremarkable biology professor who becomes an overnight sensation after appearing in the dreams of strangers. This unexpected twist propels him into viral fame, offering a fascinating look at both the allure and pitfalls of sudden celebrity.
Critics have commended Cage's performance, arguing it ranks among his finest.
The role navigates complex themes, combining humor with a deeper exploration of fame's impact.
For those familiar with Cage's work, Dream Scenario is a must-watch, showcasing how he expertly balances various emotional layers to deliver a compelling narrative.

9. The Green Knight

David Lowery, known for movies like Pete’s Dragon and Peter Pan & Wendy, brings a fresh perspective to the Arthurian legend in The Green Knight.
This fantasy-adventure film features Dev Patel as Sir Gawain, the nephew of King Arthur.
Sheltered and privileged, Gawain seeks a way to prove himself. When a chance arises to demonstrate his prowess as a warrior, he eagerly accepts, despite being unprepared for the trials ahead.
The plot explores themes of bravery, honor, and self-discovery as Gawain embarks on a dangerous quest to confront the Green Knight, a mysterious giant who is part human, part tree.

10. Dicks: The Musical

A24, known for films like Moonlight and Ex Machina, brings you an unconventional musical based on the off-Broadway show Fucking Identical Twins.
In this musical, Aaron Jackson and Josh Sharp, who both co-wrote and star, play two coworkers who discover they are long-lost twins. They hatch a wild scheme to reunite their parents, portrayed by Nathan Lane and Megan Mullally, in a plot reminiscent of Parent Trap. Megan Thee Stallion takes on the role of their boss.
Filled with bold humor and adult themes, this musical is unapologetically bold. If you’re sensitive to explicit language, you might find this one challenging.

11. Barbie

Directed by Greta Gerwig, Barbie brings a fresh and dynamic approach to the beloved doll's story.
Barbie, portrayed by Margot Robbie, enjoys an idyllic existence in Barbieland until unforeseen glitches in her perfect world prompt a journey to the real world—Los Angeles.
This mission has her investigating the source of her troubles and restoring her fabulous life.
The film has enjoyed immense popularity, grossing nearly $1.5 billion globally, which suggests you've likely watched it already.
Its innovative narrative and remarkable performances make it worth revisiting, particularly given its surprising Oscar snubs. Barbie seamlessly blends humor, adventure, and thoughtful social commentary.

12. Fargo

Fargo showcases Frances McDormand in her first Oscar-winning role as Marge Gunderson, an assertive and very pregnant police chief in Brainerd, Minnesota.
The story unfolds as Marge investigates a baffling crime scene that leads her to Jerry Lundegaard (played by William H. Macy), a desperate car salesman embroiled in a dangerous scheme to secure a large sum of money.
Jerry's plot brings him into contact with two ruthless criminals, portrayed by Steve Buscemi and Peter Stormare, who possess little concern for human life.
The film, directed by the Coen brothers, blends dark humor with stark violence, creating moments that are simultaneously horrific and absurdly funny. An unforgettable scene involves a murderer disposing of a body with a wood chipper, turning a gruesome act into a disturbingly comical situation.

13. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

In The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, directed by Sergio Leone, you witness Clint Eastwood as a mysterious figure teaming up with Eli Wallach's Mexican outlaw. Their partnership holds more questions than answers.
The film, enhanced by Ennio Morricone's iconic score, offers clever plot twists and stellar performances. This cinematic gem maintains its status as a timeless classic.

14. Eastern Promises

David Cronenberg's Eastern Promises offers a gripping and intense cinematic experience.
Viggo Mortensen shines as Nikolai, a formidable enforcer for a notorious crime family in London. His life takes a turn when a compassionate midwife, played by Naomi Watts, starts probing into the mysterious death of a woman linked to Nikolai's employers.
This film diverges from Cronenberg’s usual surreal style, opting instead for a more action-packed narrative that keeps you engaged.
The addition of physical confrontations, including Mortensen’s memorable fight scenes, intensifies the story, making it a must-watch thriller.

15. RoboCop

From the mind of director Paul Verhoeven, RoboCop presents a dystopian vision of Detroit plagued by rampant crime.
The story follows officer Alex Murphy, portrayed by Peter Weller, who suffers a brutal attack. After being critically injured, he is transformed into a cybernetic law enforcer.
Although some of the special effects might now seem dated, they were cutting-edge when the film was released in 1987.
If you’re captivated by the original RoboCop, you can continue your journey with its two sequels and the 2014 reboot available on Max.

16. Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan

Among the numerous Star Trek films available on Max, Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan stands out as a must-see. This film revitalized the entire franchise and set the stage for Star Trek: The Next Generation.
J.J. Abrams attempted to reboot this classic with Star Trek Into Darkness, but the original remains unmatched for its impact and storytelling. If you haven't watched it yet, it's highly recommended to do so before it leaves the streaming service.

17. Jodorowsky’s Dune

Alejandro Jodorowsky, the Chilean-French filmmaker, embarked on an ambitious project to adapt Frank Herbert’s Dune. He aimed to involve iconic artists such as H. R. Giger for character designs and Pink Floyd for the soundtrack.
Perhaps most audaciously, he envisioned Salvador Dalí taking on a role in the film. His vision extended to a film length of approximately 14 hours.
Although the film never materialized, Frank Pavich's documentary captures this incredible journey. You can explore more about this fascinating endeavor by watching Jodorowsky's Dune.

18. Albert Brooks: Defending My Life

Albert Brooks is often celebrated as a comedian's comedian. Known for directing iconic comedies like Defending Your Life, Lost in America, Real Life, and Mother, Brooks has also made his mark as a brilliant actor, earning an Oscar nomination.
This documentary, directed by his longtime friend Rob Reiner, captures Brooks' unique talent. The film features insights and accolades from notable figures such as David Letterman, Steven Spielberg, Sarah Silverman, Judd Apatow, Chris Rock, Larry David, and Ben Stiller, highlighting Brooks’ profound impact on comedy.

19. Dune

Frank Herbert's Dune has seen several cinematic attempts, but it wasn't until Denis Villeneuve's 2021 adaptation that the story truly captivated audiences, even winning six Oscars.
Set in the distant future, in the year 10191, the narrative revolves around the planet Arrakis, home to the universe’s most precious resource, melange, also known as spice. This unique substance is central to the plot, with its control linked to the fate of the galaxy.
You follow the journey of Paul Atreides, portrayed by Kyle MacLachlan, the young heir of a powerful duke. Paul finds himself thrust into a world of political intrigue and danger as he attempts to protect his family and the spice supply on Arrakis.
Villeneuve's adaptation, with its stunning visuals and faithful representation of Herbert's themes, has gained widespread praise and is available on Max.
David Lynch's earlier version of Dune has resurfaced in popular culture, now appreciated for its surreal and distinctly Lynchian style, even though it was initially met with less enthusiasm. This resurgence has sparked renewed interest in comparing the two adaptations, especially given the different directorial visions and interpretations of the intricate source material.

20. Furious 7

You might think that many of the Fast & Furious films blend together with their similar themes of car chases, fistfights, and street races. Furious 7, though, stands out for a few significant reasons.
This installment is known for the daring scene where the crew drops their cars from a cargo plane. Moreover, this film holds a special place as it features Paul Walker's final performance in the series after his untimely death in 2013. It’s a touching tribute and one of the series' finest moments.

21. Carrie

Carrie, directed by Brian De Palma in 1976, stands as a chilling adaptation of Stephen King's debut novel. Nearly five decades later, this film continues to terrify new generations. The story revolves around Carrie White, portrayed by Sissy Spacek, a reclusive and introverted teen who becomes the target of her high school's social clique.

22. Pulp Fiction

If you’re a movie fan, odds are you've already seen Quentin Tarantino's iconic Pulp Fiction. This film is a favorite for many who enjoy revisiting its complex narrative and unforgettable characters like Jules, Vincent, Honey Bunny, and Marsellus Wallace.
Max offers Pulp Fiction for streaming, one of the few Tarantino movies available on the platform. Whether you're reminiscing about the diner scene or the pawn shop sequence, you'll find the film's intertwining stories and unique dialogue endlessly engaging. Although a full Tarantino marathon might not be possible on Max, the experience of watching Pulp Fiction stands strong on its own.

23. Avatar: The Way of Water

James Cameron's sequel to Avatar takes place 16 years after the original 2009 film. You follow Jake (Sam Worthington) and Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), who are now married and have children.
The sequel, titled Avatar: The Way of Water, doesn’t quite generate the same buzz as its predecessor but still managed to surpass Cameron's own Titanic along with all the Star Wars movies. It has become the third-highest-grossing movie ever, with only Avatar and Avengers: Endgame ahead. For more details, you can check out Avatar: The Way of Water on HBO.

24. Reality

In 2017, an intelligence report on Russian interference in the 2016 US presidential election was leaked. The following year, Reality Winner, a former NSA translator, faced charges for this act and received a prison sentence exceeding five years—unprecedented for a government whistleblower.
Sydney Sweeney, known for her roles in Euphoria and The White Lotus, delivers a compelling performance in this factual narrative. The film unfolds in real-time as the FBI arrives at Winner's door and conducts over an hour-long interrogation, capturing the tension and stakes of the situation.

25. Parasite

Parasite, a remarkable film by Bong Joon-ho, is unique for being the only non-English-language movie to win the Best Picture Oscar, highlighting its wide-ranging themes.
Following the Kim family, who are struggling financially, the plot uncovers their elaborate plan to infiltrate the wealthy Park family. The Parks, despite their wealth, face their own set of challenges.
The movie is skillfully layered with themes of class struggle and social commentary. The story is unpredictable, with unexpected shifts in its narrative. Bong Joon-ho masterfully guides you through twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. His ability to surprise and engage audiences is unparalleled, making Parasite a must-watch film that leaves a lasting impression.

26. All the Beauty and the Bloodshed

All the Beauty and the Bloodshed presents a compelling view of Nan Goldin, capturing her dual identity as both artist and activist.
Goldin's photography vividly chronicles significant crises in America, such as the HIV/AIDS and opioid epidemics. Despite her acclaim, she faces a profound dilemma: should she permit her work to be displayed in museums funded by the Sackler family, whose pharmaceutical practices are widely criticized for contributing to the opioid crisis?
This film portrays an artist deeply committed to her principles, showing her readiness to jeopardize professional opportunities to stand firm in her beliefs. Through this lens, you gain an intimate look at the ethical conflicts that define Goldin's career.

27. The Dark Knight

The Dark Knight, directed by Christopher Nolan, stands out prominently in the Batman trilogy. If you’re planning a movie marathon, all three films are available on Max.
However, the second installment is often considered the pinnacle of the series. Christian Bale reprises his role as Batman, but it is Heath Ledger's portrayal of the Joker that steals the spotlight.
Ledger’s performance, blending dark humor with sheer madness, is a key reason why this film is so compelling. Tragically, Ledger passed away six months before the movie’s release but received a posthumous Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
The Dark Knight remains a landmark superhero movie, celebrated for its complex characters and intense narrative.

28. Hereditary

Hereditary, directed by Ari Aster, takes psychological horror to unprecedented levels.
You follow Annie Graham, a miniature artist portrayed by Toni Collette. She lives with her psychiatrist husband and their two children, Peter and Charlie.
Everything changes after Annie’s estranged mother passes away.
The film quickly immerses you in questions about Annie's sanity, her husband's competence as a psychiatrist, and the odd behavior of her children.
The movie introduces you to unsettling elements like Charlie’s mysterious clicking noise and ominous occurrences in the family's car, which escalate the tension.
Ari Aster’s directorial style sets him apart, making him a noteworthy figure in modern horror cinema.
If you’re interested in more of his work, his second film, Midsommar, is also available for streaming.

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a globally recognized English proficiency test that assesses the language skills of individuals aiming to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries. The test evaluates four key language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

But when it comes to taking the IELTS exam, choosing the right path between the IELTS General and IELTS Academic tests is crucial for achieving your specific goals. Both versions of the test serve different purposes and have distinct formats.
Let’s explore what IELTS General and IELTS Academic entail, their purposes, the differences in their test formats.

IELTS General vs. Academic: An Overview

IELTS Academic

· Purpose: The IELTS Academic test is designed for individuals applying for higher education or professional registration in an English-speaking environment. It is suitable for students seeking undergraduate or postgraduate admissions and for professionals such as doctors and nurses who need to demonstrate their English proficiency for licensing purposes.

· Test Format:
Listening: 30 minutes. Four recordings of native English speakers are played, and candidates answer questions.

Reading: 60 minutes. Three long reading passages with tasks, primarily sourced from books, journals, magazines, and newspapers.

Writing: 60 minutes. Two tasks:
· Task 1: Describing visual information (graph, chart, diagram).
· Task 2: Writing an essay in response to an argument or problem.
Speaking: 11-14 minutes. A face-to-face interview with an examiner, including short questions, speaking at length about a familiar topic, and a structured discussion.

IELTS General Training

· Purpose: The IELTS General Training test is aimed at individuals migrating to English-speaking countries such as Canada, Australia, or the UK, or those applying for secondary education, training programs, or work experience in an English-speaking environment.

· Test Format:
Listening: 30 minutes. Similar to the Academic test with four recordings of native English speakers.
Reading: 60 minutes. Includes extracts from books, magazines, newspapers, notices, advertisements, and company handbooks.
Writing: 60 minutes. Two tasks:
· Task 1: Writing a letter (formal, semi-formal, or informal).
· Task 2: Writing an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem.

Speaking: 11-14 minutes. Same format as the Academic test.

Differences in IELTS Test Formats

While both versions of the IELTS test share the same Listening and Speaking components, the Reading and Writing sections differ significantly:
Reading:
· Academic: Focuses on long, complex texts suitable for academic study.
· General: Includes a variety of texts relevant to everyday life, work, and social contexts.
Writing:
· Academic: Requires description of visual data and formal essay writing.
· General: Includes letter writing (which may be less formal) and essay writing on general topics.

Getting Expert’s Help To Choose From

GCI Language helps you to choose the right IELTS path and offers tailored coaching to help you achieve your specific goals.

Here’s how we support your IELTS preparation:
Our experienced instructors are well-versed in the intricacies of both the IELTS Academic and General Training tests. They provide personalized guidance, ensuring you understand the test format and strategies to tackle each section effectively.
Our curriculum covers all aspects of the IELTS exam, including Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. We provide ample practice materials, mock tests, and feedback sessions to track your progress and address your weaknesses.
Whether you prefer in-person classes or online IELTS coaching, GCI Language offers flexible learning options to suit your schedule. Our adaptive approach ensures you receive high-quality instruction regardless of your location.
Enjoy the benefits of small class sizes, which allow for individualized attention and interactive learning. Our instructors can focus on your specific needs and provide targeted support.
With a history of success, many of our students have achieved their desired IELTS scores and successfully pursued their academic and professional goals. Our structured approach and comprehensive resources are key to your success.
Choosing between IELTS General and IELTS Academic is a critical decision that depends on your specific objectives, whether they are academic or professional. Understanding the differences in their formats and purposes can guide you in making the right choice. At GCI Language, we are dedicated to providing the best IELTS coaching and resources to help you excel in your chosen path. With our expert instructors, comprehensive curriculum, and flexible learning options, you’ll be well-prepared to achieve your goals.

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Source: Choosing the Right Path – IELTS General vs Academic

Hi all,
I'm going to join my country's military. Unexpectedly, a spot opened for an officer role that I really like, but it requires A2 French as a second language. The problem? This test is in two weeks. Seems quite impossible.
However, I have some basic French knowledge from my highschool days. Maybe A1 plus. Like, I can ask for directions, order stuff in restaurants, and I can sort of understand news articles if I know the context, etc.
I did a practice test that they provided, and I didn't make it with my current knowledge. But I was close. On a scale of 1-20, I got a 7.5. And I need a 10 to pass. So could it be done? And if so, what do y'all think is the best way to improve a language very quickly? I have unlimited free time to learn over these two weeks. The test is mostly based on translation (french to dutch and dutch to french) as well as a short essay in French.
Ty for any tips!

Thesis

Sources:

• Tweet
  
• The ADL - Israel: A Guide For Activists
  

Elaboration

The ADL promotes 'replacement theory' in Israel, while condemning it in America.
Awhile back, the ADL put out a hasbara handbook - a guide to advocating for Israel.
In the handbook, on pages 59-60, the ADL espouses views that are word-for-word taken from 'replacement theory'.

• The ADL - Israel: A Guide For Activists

Excerpt:

A bi-national state, in principle and in practice, would mean the ideological end of the Jewish State of Israel and lead to the forsaking of Jewish nationalism and identity, along with its special status as a refuge for Jews fleeing persecution.
Furthermore, bi-nationalism is unworkable given current realities and historic animosities. With historically high birth rates among the Palestinians, and a possible influx of Palestinian refugees and their descendants now living around the world, Jews would quickly be a minority within a bi-national state, thus likely ending any semblance of equal representation and protections. In this situation, the Jewish population would be increasingly politically – and potentially physically – vulnerable.
It is unrealistic and unacceptable to expect the State of Israel to voluntarily subvert its own sovereign existence and nationalist identity and become a vulnerable minority within what was once its own territory.

• Alarmism about 'birth rates' = ✅
  
• Alarmism about immigration = ✅
  
• Alarmism about the demographic majority becoming a minority and losing its privileged status = ✅
  
• Equating the privilege of being a demographic majority with 'sovereign existence' (which in-turn negates the existence and/or concerns, agency, progress, etc. of the Out-group) = ✅
  

All of this is typical 'replacement theory' talking-points.
A commentator on Twitter points out that the ADL uses the same rhetoric as American and European ultra-nationalists, who fear-monger about PoC and immigrants.

The interplay between right-wing nationalism & support for Israel

The ADL's primary purpose now is to defend Israel's apartheid regime.
Note how Rep. Stefanik is pictured in the ADL tweet. She is the one leading the charge right now with these public antisemitism inquisitions of college administrators.
Right-wing nationalists support Israel because they want to emulate Israel's policies towards Palestinians (as a stand-in for immigrants, PoC, leftists, etc.).
A study on European antisemitism found that xenophobes (who rated higher in antisemitism) tend to support Israel due to its immigration policies. Whereas those critical of Israeli policy were less xenophobic & less antisemitic.

• This fits the American Right too.
  
• Former New Republic editor, Peter Beinart, wrote about this in an article titled 'The Beinart Notebook - Are Zionists more antisemitic than anti-Zionists?'
  

Since Zionism is a form of cult-like nationalism, it's no surprise that the ADL would adopt 'replacement theory' talking-points when discussing their concerns about the political agency of the Jewish demographic majority in Israel.
In order to maintain that demographic majority, Israel uses discriminatory legislation & enormous State violence.
A lot of Zionists obfuscate what Zionism means now (for all practical purposes) by signaling some support/empathy for Palestinians. So the primary question one must ask, is whether you support a Jewish demographic majority in Israel.
If the answer is 'yes' - then you're justifying massive discrimination & violence against the Palestinian out-group. It no longer matters what games one plays with the 'definition' of 'Zionist'.
Get straight to the functional point. Are you morally consistent?

The ADL, Mike Pompeo, and the Jewish National Fund

Peter Beinart, in a discussion with FMEP's Lara Friedman & political strategist Rania Batrice, talks about how the ADL supports discriminatory policies in Israel that it would never support in America.
Peter notes that Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the ADL, has to 'code-switch' when advocating for Israel, for this very reason. Whereas, someone like Mike Pompeo, who is also a cultish nationalist, is more forthcoming in what he wants for America (a Christian nationalist State).
For Pompeo, it's perfectly fine to support an analog to the Jewish National Fund (JNF) in America (ie a hypothetical Christian National Fund; an organization that would support land access/development for Christians only). Greenblatt would lose his mind if a CNF existed in America - but he won't propose abolishing the JNF in Israel.
In Israel, the government controls 93 percent of the land¹ - directly or indirectly through quasi-governmental bodies like the Development Authority (DA) or the JNF. But all of it is administered by a governmental body, the Israel Land Administration (ILA).
The JNF's mandate is to develop land folease land to Israeli Jews, so 13% of the land in Israel excludes Palestinian citizens of Israel & everyone else. Thus, when the ILA tenders a lease owned by the JNF, they are directly complicit in "outright discrimination".²

1. The Israel Land Administration
2. Human Rights Watch - Off the Map: Land and Housing Rights Violations in Israel’s Unrecognized Bedouin Villages
3. Human Rights Watch - Israel: Discriminatory Land Policies Hem in Palestinians

Israeli historian at Tel Aviv University, Prof. Gadi Algazi, explains how the Ben-Gurion utilized the 1949 Absentee Property Law to facilitate the JNF acquiring stolen Palestinian land.

• The Real News Network - Israeli Tree Campaign "Judaizes" Expropriated Land

Ben-Gurion circumvented any future international legal intervention by 'selling' (absolutely illegally) the land entrusted to the custodians (Ben-Gurion appointed Israel the custodians of the stolen Palestinian land following the 48' War) to the JNF so that Israel, in the case of an international debate, could say 'sorry, it's not in my hands anymore'. Within days, about a million dunams (1M dunams = about 250K acres) of land were sold for a price well below their value to the JNF. Another million would be sold later on.

Then-Israeli Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion appointed the Israeli government as custodian of the land and then sold 250,000 acres to the Jewish National Fund. The problem of the Arab refugees was forgotten in the main despite the United Nations trying to resolve it. Ben-Gurion thought that time would eventually solve the problem. The abandoned village land and houses were given to Israeli soldiers so Arabs couldn’t return.

• The Berkshire Eagle - Leonard Quart: A documentary about Israel's past digs at the roots of its present uncertainty

Some speculate the JNF never even paid for the land. Instead, the Israeli government agreed to subsidize the purchase in exchange for assurances the land would be set aside for Jewish settlement.

But the Israeli cabinet ordered the JNF to stop all efforts at buying land from Palestinians directly, and the men returned to Israel.144 Ben Gurion told Weitz and Danin in December 1948 that “The JNF would buy land only from the State. There was no need to buy land from Arabs.”145
[...]One month after Ben Gurion told Weitz that the JNF should buy land only from the state, the two sides finally concluded a major deal by which the JNF would purchase a huge amount of refugee land in January 1949. Despite his mistrust of sharing power with the JNF, Ben Gurion had long wanted to sell captured Palestinian land to the JNF. In fact as early as May 13, 1948, the day before he publicly read Israel’s declaration of independence, Ben Gurion offered to sell a massive 2 million dunums of land to the JNF for £P0.5/dunum. He was trying to sell land he did not yet control to raise money for arms.

• Fischbach, Michael. Records of Dispossession (Institute for Palestine Studies Series) (pp. 61-63). Columbia University Press. Kindle Edition.

The deal involving the so-called “second million” dunums was finalized on October 4, 1950, and involved the transfer of an additional 1,271,734 dunums by the Custodian of Absentee Property on behalf of the Development Authority to the JNF, 99.8 percent of which (1,271,480 dunums) was rural land. Granott later placed the amount at 1,278,200 dunums. The amount of £I66 million was to be paid to the government over a ten year period. Some sources indicate that the JNF was actually to turn the money over to the Jewish Agency on the government’s behalf; the amount then would be considered a loan by the government to the JA. Others claim that the JNF never actually paid the amounts it owed under the two deals.163

• Fischbach, Michael. Records of Dispossession (Institute for Palestine Studies Series) (pp. 65-66). Columbia University Press. Kindle Edition.

Thus, Israel confiscated Palestinian land and held it in trust - only to sell it to an organization that would only allow the land to be used (sold/leased/etc.) by Jewish people only.

The JNF faced no such obstacles and was free to discriminate against Arabs in favor of Jews. Its charter mandated that all land that it purchased thereafter would be inalienable, to be held by the JNF on behalf of the Jewish people in perpetuity. Because the JNF could not sell land it acquired, it leased land to Jewish settlements and individual Jews on the condition that it not be re-let to non-Jews and that only Jewish labor be used on the land—the policy of “Hebrew labor” [Heb.: ‘avoda ‘ivrit]. Thus as a nongovernmental organization free to manage its own land on an exclusivist basis within the new state, the JNF argued for its control of refugee land on this ideological base: if the JNF obtains the land, it will be the best way to guarantee that it is used for Jewish settlement only. This attitude was expressed by a JNF official at the 23rd congress of the World Zionist Organization held in 1951, the fiftieth anniversary of the JNF’s establishment, who stated that the JNF “will redeem the lands and will turn them over to the Jewish people—to the people and not the state, which in the current composition of population cannot be an adequate guarantor of Jewish ownership” [emphases in the original].

• Fischbach, Michael. Records of Dispossession (Institute for Palestine Studies Series) (pp. 59-60). Columbia University Press. Kindle Edition.

It's important to note that all throughout the history of the JNF, its officials openly talked about dispossessing the Palestinian people and taking their land.
In Records of Dispossession, Michael Fischback writes about the culpability of Zionist organizations in the expulsion of the Palestinian people - and singles out one important figure, Yosef Weitz of the JNF.

The question of to what degree Jewish authorities deliberately expelled Palestinians is a hotly contested one.13 For many historians of the Arab-Israeli conflict, the issue comes down to whether Zionist authorities ordered the deliberate expulsion of the Palestinians according to a master plan of ethnic cleansing. It is beyond dispute that some expulsions occurred as it is that, even before the fighting began, various figures in the Zionist movement were actively investigating the idea of what they euphemistically called “transferring” the Palestinians out of the country. One such person was Yosef Weitz of the Jewish National Fund [Heb.: Keren Kayemet le-Yisra’el]. Weitz was born in Russia in 1890 and immigrated to Ottoman Palestine in 1908. He began working for the Jewish National Fund (JNF) in 1918. The JNF was established by the World Zionist Organization [Heb.: ha-Histadrut ha-Tsiyonit; later, ha-Histadrut ha-Tsiyonit ha-‘Olamit] in December 1901 to acquire land in Ottoman Syria for the establishment of a Jewish state. It acquired its first land in Palestine in 1904. In 1907, the JNF was incorporated in London as the Jewish National Fund, Ltd., although its offices were located on the continent and moved several times over the decades. Starting in 1932, Weitz had risen to serve as the director of the JNF’s Land Development Division. He was also involved in the establishment of the Histadrut, the all-encompassing Zionist labor federation.

• Fischbach, Michael. Records of Dispossession (Institute for Palestine Studies Series) (pp. 4-5). Columbia University Press. Kindle Edition.

Weitz countered with a hard-line vision of transferring the Palestinians completely out of the country. He detailed his ideas in his diary:

It should be clear to us that there is no room in Palestine for these two peoples. No “development” will bring us to our goal of independent nationhood in this small country. Without the Arabs, the land will become wide and spacious for us; with the Arabs, the land will remain sparse and cramped . . . . The only solution is Palestine, at least Western Palestine [i.e., Palestine without Transjordan], without Arabs. There is no room here for compromises!14

Weitz and Lifshits agreed to try to work toward this goal. In fact, in 1948 they served together on a committee that investigated transfer (see below). When the fighting broke out in 1948, Weitz believed that it provided a golden opportunity to effect such a transfer. By the spring of that year, thousands of Palestinians were already in flight and leaving behind large stretches of land. For Weitz, the proper course of action was simple: prevent their return and take over their land. On May 20, 1948, Weitz noted in his diary that the refugee flight would create “a complete territorial revolution . . . . The State is destined to expropriate . . . their land.” 15 Once the fighting was underway, he would move to realize this.

• Fischbach, Michael. Records of Dispossession (Institute for Palestine Studies Series) (pp. 6-7). Columbia University Press. Kindle Edition.

The ADL's history of anti-Palestine activism: the spying case

Historically, the ADL surveilled Arab-American and Jewish-American activists who were sympathetic to the Palestinian struggle.

• The Los Angeles Times (1993) - New Details of Extensive ADL Spy Operation Emerge : Inquiry: Transcripts reveal nearly 40 years of espionage by a man who infiltrated political groups.
  
• The Associated Press (1993) - Arab-Americans Sue Anti-Defamation League Over Alleged Spying
  
• The Los Angeles Times (1999) - Anti-Defamation League Settles Spying Lawsuit
  
• The Jewish Telegraphic Agency (2002) - ADL Settles Privacy Lawsuit, but Denies It Did Anything Wrong
  

Excerpt, from a JTA (2002) article on the ADL spying on anti-Zionist Jewish-Americans:

Both sides had filed appeals in July when a San Francisco Superior Court judge dismissed the cases of plaintiffs Anne Poirier and Steven Zeltzer, but not that of Jefferey Blankfort, who claimed the ADL obtained his Social Security number "for nonjournalistic purposes." Because the settlement took place before the appeals came though, the ADL agreed to compensate all three.

Blankfort explains the court case:

• The National Press Club - Jeffrey Blankfort: The ADL: Covert action, censure, and courting law-enforcement.

In earlier decades, the ADL put out dossiers on pro-Palestine activism with titles like, 'Target U.S.A: The Arab Propaganda Offensive' (1975).

• Source: Stanford University, the Berman Jewish Policy Archive.

News article coverage from that time, reporting on then-director of the ADL Jerome Bakst's speaking engagement in town.

• Source: The Evening Herald of Pennsylvania, November 1975.

In the present, the ADL still keeps tabs on pro-Palestine activism & activists like Mohammed El-Kurd.
With so many more Zionist groups now, the ADL no longer has to be a one-stop-shop for all things Israel advocacy. They no longer need to spy on Americans when plenty of other organizations do. They no longer have to profile people, because other Zionist groups like Canary Mission do.
So while the ADL isn't outright spying people as it did years ago, it's not out of some moral shift. It's because they no longer have to.

A biceps tendon rupture occurs when the biceps muscle is torn from the bone at the point of attachment (tendon) to the shoulder or elbow. Most commonly, the biceps tendon is torn at the shoulder. These tears occur in men more than women; most injuries occur at 40 to 60 years of age due to chronic wear of the biceps tendon. In younger individuals, the tear is usually the result of trauma (such as an auto accident or fall). Biceps tendon ruptures can also occur at any age in individuals who perform repetitive overhead lifting or work in occupations that require heavy lifting, and in athletes who lift weights or participate in aggressive contact sports.
Physical therapists help individuals regain flexibility, strength, and function in their arms following biceps tendon ruptures.
Physical therapists are movement experts. They improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement. You can contact a physical therapist directly for an evaluation.
What is a Biceps Tendon Rupture?
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint made up of 3 bones: the upper-arm bone (humerus), the shoulder blade (scapula), and the collar bone (clavicle). The ball at the top of the upper-arm bone is called the head of the humerus. The socket on the shoulder blade is called the glenoid fossa. A tendon is a fibrous bundle that attaches a muscle to a bone. The muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff hold the ball into the socket of the shoulder. The biceps muscle has 2 tendons that attach it to the shoulder and travel the length of the upper arm and insert just below the elbow. The biceps muscle is responsible for bending (flexing) the elbow and rotating the forearm. One of the tendons is called the "long head" of the biceps muscle; it attaches to the upper-arm bone. The second area of attachment is called the "short head" of the biceps; it attaches the muscle to a bony bump on the shoulder blade called the coracoid process.
Most commonly, the biceps tendon will tear at the long head of the biceps at the upper-arm bone, leaving the second attachment at the shoulder blade intact. The arm can still be used after this type of rupture, yet weakness will be present in the shoulder and upper arm. A tear can either be partial, when part of the tendon remains intact and only a portion is torn away from the bone, or complete, where the entire tendon is torn away from the bone.
How Does It Feel?
After sustaining a biceps tendon rupture, you may experience:
Sharp pain in the upper arm or elbow
Hearing a "pop" or snap at the shoulder or elbow
Bruising and swelling in the upper arm to elbow
Weakness in the arm when bending the elbow, rotating the forearm, or lifting the arm overhead
Tenderness in the shoulder or elbow
Muscle spasms in the shoulder and arm
A bulge or deformity in the lower part of the upper arm (a "Popeye arm")
How Is It Diagnosed?
In most cases, a thorough history and physical examination of the involved arm can diagnose a biceps tendon rupture. Your physical therapist will ask you several questions regarding your medical history, your regular daily tasks at home and at work, and your recreational or sports activities. Your physical therapist will ask how the injury happened and where you are having pain and/or weakness.
Your physical therapist will examine your entire upper arm for bruising or swelling, and gently touch it to determine if there is any tenderness over the biceps region at the shoulder, upper arm, or elbow. Your physical therapist also will examine the amount of motion and strength present on the involved side in the shoulder, forearm, and elbow, compared to the noninvolved side. Functional testing may also be performed to determine what daily tasks are difficult for you to perform (eg, lifting an object, reaching overhead, reaching behind the body, or rotating the forearm to open a door).
How Can a Physical Therapist Help?
A biceps tendon rupture often is treated without surgery. Your physical therapist will design an individualized treatment program to help heal your injury in the safest and most efficient way possible. Treatment may include:
Rest. You will be instructed in ways that allows the limb to rest to promote healing.
Icing. Your physical therapist will show you how to apply ice to the affected area to manage pain and swelling.
Range-of-Motion Activities. Your physical therapist will teach you gentle mobility exercises for the shoulder, elbow, and forearm, so your arm does not get stiff during the healing process.
Strengthening Exercises. As the pain and swelling ease, gentle strengthening exercises with resistant bands or light weights will be added.
Functional Activities. You will learn exercises to help you return to the activities you performed before the injury.
Education. Your physical therapist will teach you how to protect your joints from further injury. You will learn how to properly lift objects once the arm is healed, and how to avoid lifting objects that are simply too heavy.
Can This Injury or Condition Be Prevented?
To prevent a biceps tendon rupture, individuals should:
Maintain proper strength in the shoulder, elbow, and forearm.
Avoid repetitive overhead lifting and general overuse of the shoulder, such as performing forceful pushing or pulling activities, or lifting objects that are simply too heavy. Lifting more than 150 pounds can be dangerous for older adults.
Use special care when performing activities, such as lowering a heavy item to the ground.
Avoid smoking; it introduces carbon monoxide into the body and leaves less oxygen for the muscles to grow and heal.
Avoid steroid use, as it weakens muscles and tendons.
What Kind of Physical Therapist Do I Need?
All physical therapists are prepared through education and experience to treat biceps tendon ruptures. However, you may want to consider:
A physical therapist who is experienced in treating people with shoulder and elbow conditions or injuries. Some physical therapists have a practice with an orthopedic or sports medicine focus.
A physical therapist who is a board-certified clinical specialist or who completed a residency or fellowship in orthopedic physical therapy. This therapist has advanced knowledge, experience, and skills that may apply to your condition.
You can find physical therapists who have these and other credentials by using Find a PT, the online tool built by the American Physical Therapy Association to help you search for physical therapists with specific clinical expertise in your geographic area.

Orginal Story by C.K. Walker
Written By Ayden M.N. and u/Memiiselgey23
SPOILERS FOR BORRASCA V
(Constructive Criticism is welcome and encouraged)
...
One hundred thirty two. That is the amount of people that were rescued that day on the mountain. I would be lying if I said it didn’t take me by surprise to hear the news about the stables let alone the number of people that were there. It makes me think back to when I was a kid and all the strange and tragic things that happened to me then. It's funny how time changes, how everything wilts away. How life goes on without a wait or stop. Sometimes you'll forget what lurked underneath, and when you do remember, it's already too late. I couldn't say my childhood wasn't bad but it's basically not as cheery as most kids have it.
My father was definitely sucked into his job as a lawyer, while my mom was bustling her back at an old diner, drinking her sorrows away. None had any time to spare for me, as a child. It made me a pretty independent child, and when my mother decided to give birth to Lucy, I became that mother figure that I never had. Aside from Lucy, I had nobody else to talk to. School in Drisking was okay, but I would be lying if I said it was a good experience. I was pretty much alone from childhood to teens. Most kids already had their own friends, their designated trio. I would always refer to it that way. It was by sheer luck that I really did find a friend. Someone who I could share my emo playlist alongside with and in return she taught me a lot about DnD.
However like if the world knew I was meant to be alone, she was taken away from me. I never knew what happened to her, but I beat myself about. If only I didn't moved from Drisking, maybe I could had found her sooner.
The one thing that has remained consistent is my ritualistic daily breakfasts at the diner. From the start of my freshmen year, I never missed a day of going to the diner. It was my way of getting my head together and preparing for the day ahead. Even into my adulthood, I never stopped going. Imagine my surprise when I saw a face that I’d honestly thought I would never see again. It didn’t click at first. I just felt like I knew it.
She was about 5’8” with asymmetrical short dirty blond hair. Her clothes were mainly black and I can just see something protruding from her around her waist. She had a plain black shirt tucked into her pants with a well-kept belt. She wore a Nobel 6 zip up jacket -Clearly a Halo fan- and a small d20 pin on it. Where this seems normal to the untrained eye, I can’t help but feel deja vu from looking at this woman. She seemed like this distant dream that is so fuzzy that it’s just familiar enough to almost recognize.
She walked into the diner and was given a table next to mine. I racked my brain trying to figure out who this was. I examined every part of her, again, and again, and again, just trying to make sense of who was sitting right there in front of me. She was so close, yet she was so distant from me.
“May I help you?” She sighs, putting her coffee down on the table in a way that I can only describe as a contained irritation. “Or are you just going to stare at me like I’m an exhibit?”
I wasn’t even conscious I was staring. She turns to me and it all clicks together. The d20, the jacket, and, my new discovery, looking at her closer and can see her, the freckle on her upper lip.
“Kat? Is that really you?” Stunned, I blurted out. I was adamant that that familiar woman had to be her. No one had that exact same freckle like her.
“That depends on who is asking.” She rolls her eyes taking another sip of her coffee.
She doesn’t recognize me? It makes since she didn’t. It’s been so long. Looking down at my empty plate, as I really wanted her to recognize me. Should I introduce myself? I thought, maybe I'll make her remember me.
“So you don't know me? I can give a hint, I'm sure it might give you an idea on who I am.” I nervously laughed, as I dug into my black leather purse.
Quickly, I pulled it out, plopping down a custom made d20 dice on the table. I remember painting my own dice black, since I was super obsessed with the color black as a teen.
“Wait,” Kat puts down her coffee again, this time with more of a clang. “What is that? Where did you get this?”
Placing the dice right next to my plate, I felt my throat lumping already.
“Remember on my 16th birthday, when it was only you and me. I remember we almost burned the house down because we had the dumb idea to bake a cake.”
“Pauly…?” A slow recognition comes across Kat’s face. Replaced soon by unadulterated joy. “Well, I’ll be damned!”
Tears started to well up my eyes, I was so ecstatic to finally see her eyes flashed with recognition. I slowly got up to my chair, every step I took felt like I was stepping in a pile of needles. Getting a great look on Kat, she looked different from the nerdy shy girl I knew. But, I didn’t care how different Kat looked, I was happy to see my old friend alive.
“I just don't know what to say. I thought I've lost you.” I whispered, my voice already trembling as I spoke.
“Oh,” Kat's voice cracks a bit too, pulling me into a hug. “It’s okay. I’m here.”
Kat seemed to be holding back tears. Just being with her now, I couldn’t even wrap my head around it. It seems so surreal. Even when I hugged her, it felt like it was a fabricated dream. But it wasn't, this was all flesh and blood.
“Just…how are you…I'm so sorry that I never found you. Everyone, even the cops told me that you were long gone. I had hoped you'd come back. Just didn't know it would take this long.” Wiping my tears with my sleeve, I hugged even tighter. She was much taller than me, so I couldn't really comprehend it.
“Hey, hey.” Kat chuckles a bit. Still holding back tears, I could tell. “It’s okay. You…There was no way you could have known. I have a lot of explaining to do, I’m sure but let’s forget about that for now.”
“Yeah…I'm just so happy to see you again.” I sat across from Kat's seat, picking up a napkin to wipe the rest of my tears. It rubbed off some of my mascara, making me think it was a horrible idea to try out some make up today. “So, um…what have you been doing over these years? I see you got a gun holster over there?”
“Well, I…” Kat cut herself off. “I was a SWAT operative. It’s, uh, a long story. How about you?”
“SWAT? No wonder you look so tough and badass!” I then continued enthusiastically. “Well, I'm actually a nurse practitioner. I'm very specialized in prenatal care. I know it's funny because I really didn't like babies back then.”
“Oh? That’s…nice.” Kat’s voice shudders. “And I wouldn’t call myself a badass for being SWAT. It…makes you question a lot of things about yourself for sure. It’s all in the interest of others though.”
My smile slowly fell, as I was scared if I might've made her upset. “I see, I understand. We both are doing jobs that help people, and probably had to endure some bad cases once in a while.”
“Did…did you ever find Kincade?”
Kincade. I haven't heard of that name since after moving Drisking.
I took a deep breath, as I responded. “I did manage to find Kincade after your disappearance. They never told me what happened, and I lost contact ever since. Last time I checked, Kincade moved to California.”
“Oh, thank god.” Kat sighs out of relief, as she takes a seat back down. “Knowing that girl, she’s living it up in LA. Well, I was actually in New York all this time. I thought it would be a good place to settle down. For what it was worth, the NYPD was good to me.”
“Oh I can tell she is. I followed her Instagram, and she's always posting pictures of parties and such.” I tucked a strand of hair in the back of my ear, while I pulled out my phone to show Kat Kincade’s page. “Even if they don't want to talk to me, I'm just super glad they're okay.”
I sometimes wonder why Kincade hasn't had contact with me yet, but deep inside I felt like they were somewhat upset with me. The strange thing was that once Kincade showed up, my mother just randomly disappeared. My father had always told me that she's just had it with us, and left to do her own life. However I never believed that story. Sure my mom was a raging drunk chain-smoker, but she always loved Lucy and I. Her just leaving out of the blue isn't in character, and I just know that something wrong might have occurred.
Kat inspects the page. I can tell it struck something in her. I knew from this point she was holding back a bit with her emotions but for some reason, this broke her. Suddenly I saw my childhood best friend break into a waterfall of sadness. She started to sob. As if she had a dam behind her eyes and they just burst.
“Kat.. Oh shit, I didn’t mean to make you cry,” I rushed towards Kat’s side, wrapping an arm around her shoulders.
It broke me to see Kat this way, yet I couldn’t help but wonder what made her let out her tears. My eyes suddenly landed at one of Kat’s wrist, a light brown scar was marred on her skin. It was half covered by her sleeve, its appearance was more like a stab wound than a slash. I could tell Kat noticed me staring at it, as she quickly covered it up. The sky was now in a vibrant orange and magenta hue, while the bright sun started to slowly settle down.
Kat finally regained her composure after a few minutes of apologizing profusely.
“I know.” Kat weakly pushes out from her lips through her tears. “I know you see them. I know I have a lot of explaining to do. I got that…from a mission that I’m not sure if you’re ready to hear.”
Leaning against her shoulder, I looked up at Kat with an understanding expression. “I think I’m ready to hear about this. Over these years, I wanted to know what happened in Drisking. I don’t want to stay ignorant anymore.”
“Let’s…” Kat wipes her eyes, only for more tears to take the others place. “Let’s go somewhere a little more private.”
∆∆∆
“As you enter into the Church of the Overthrown Gods.” Kat dramatically pauses. “You feel as if multiple eyes are watching you. As you look closer to the rotting wood altar, you see a tiny eye just peeking out…and then another…and then another…and then another… as they rise up from the altar you see they are on tendeles attached to a large spherical mass. You see 10 tenderals rise all with snake-like eyes darting around the room before meeting yours. As the large mass comes into view you see one large eye on it staring at you and an unnerving smile as it laughs intimidatingly at you. As you realize what is staring back at you is…a beholder…and that’s where we will leave off tonight’s session!”
Several protests fill the room. It wasn’t out of character for Kat to leave off on a cliffhanger, but this is what we have been waiting for since the end of 2008. And even a year later, Kat always leaves the carrot dangling over our heads.
“Hey,” Kat shrugs “I gotta keep you hooked or else our three month streak of all of you attending won’t keep going.”
“Oh, fuck you, Kat!” Kami rolls her eyes lightheartedly “We come back every week regardless.”
“Yeah, but it's more fun torturing you.” Kat giggled while combing through her long hair with her fingers.
Shaking my head, I took a sip on my already luke-warm Snapple, “Typical Kat. Why do you always gotta tease us like that? I was literally witnessing my character finally healing from a poison arrow and just to end at that. I totally can't wait till the next!”
“Thank you,” Kat nods before getting up and starting to pack up and the group follows suit. “I cannot wait for next session. It’s a big battle so I recommend you all start doing some research on Beholders to be ready, because this monster is really tough. Remember, we are starting the next session at level 12, and I’ll see you all soon!”
After about 10 minutes, the rest of the group left except for me. I like staying after sessions with Kat. I don’t understand why the other two people in the group don’t stay. It’s not even 9pm by the time we finished and they are already out the door.
It’s sophomore skip day tomorrow and I sure as hell know everyone will be participating so what’s the rush? Well, everyone except for Kat. From all the time I’ve known Kat up until this point, she never skipped a day or cut any corners when it came to her education. It was admirable but also frustrating. I cannot tell you how many plans I had to cancel because she wanted to study. I never understood why she was so serious about it. It’s like her life depended on her making good grades and being a shining student. I have to admit, I am jealous of her dedication to it.
I would typically leave her to her own devices when it came to school but just by looking at her, she looked like she deserved a break. With the exams and the constant verbal battles between her mother and her father, I can tell just by looking at her, the pressure is on her. I could say the same for my home situation, but I'm already used to it, that it is practically normal for me. Kat, on the other hand, really deserved a break, just this one time.
While I was playing with one of the d20 dice, gathering up courage, I asked, “Hey Kat? Whatcha going do tomorrow?”
“Oh, um.” Kat says not looking up from her notebook, making some notes for the next session. “Just going to school, I should be able to go to take our usual walks tomorrow after.”
A smile crept on my lips, as I definitely predicted Kat's answers. Sure, I did hear that the Sheriff in town was going to give tickets to those that didn't go to school, but I didn't really care about that. I just wanted to have a chill day with my friends. After all, I busted my ass to at least have passable grades.
“Hmm. Hey Kat, why don't we…you know,” I nudged her with my elbow. “Skip school tomorrow?”
“I don’t think that’s a good idea.” Kat sighs.
“I know, I know. But I just feel like these days have been for us but we just have fun tomorrow.” I could tell that I was losing Kat already, her mind dead set on going to school. I tucked a strand on my blue hair behind my ear, as I followed Kat. “Kat, please. Sometimes I worry about you because you're working yourself out. Just this once, and I'll promise I'll try to raise my Geometry class to a B!”
“I suppose…” Kat thinks for a second. “It wouldn’t hurt to skip one day.”
“Hell yeah!” I tackled Kat, as I tried to spin her around in happiness. “I promise that you'll have the best day. That jackass Sheriff won't ruin our day. I'll make sure of it!”
“Alright! Alright!” Kat giggles “Fine. Just calm down.”
I feel a sense of relief coming from Kat like I somehow unlocked one shackle that she bore on her ankles. There’s still plenty, and this one is certainly not the heaviest but the littlest weight off of her is enough for her to appreciate.
I let her go as I dashed towards my Jack Skeleton backpack, fetching out my half torn notepad. “ I scribbled some of the plans I have for tomorrow. I was thinking we could dine on Prescott Artisan Sandwiches, and then maybe hike the trail over west of Crystal Lake. What do you think?”
“Yeah!” Kat exclaims. “I heard there’s going to be a few people there tomorrow. Probably could use the social interaction, or attempt to at least.”
“We'll have the lake to ourselves,” I chuckled, placing my notepad back to my back. I really did need a new notepad, however I remember my family was very tight on money at the time. “Oh I almost forgot that Kincade might be joining us too.”
“Sounds good to me.” Kat smiles. “Honestly, that girl needs to be a bit more interactive if you ask me.” Kat chuckles. “As if I’m one to talk.”
“That's why I invited her too. I feel like you girls could get along.” I then jokingly added, “Maybe you can indoctrinate her into playing DnD with us, eh?”
“I’m sure I can.” Kat giggles. “Alright, so are you staying the night tonight? I think I can take the car tomorrow so you can stay if you like.”
“I'll stay, but I should pick up Lucy. My mom said she left her by the Landys,” I rubbed my neck in frustration as I continued. “I hate how my mom just randomly abandons Lucy to strangers. Does she know there's creeps?”
My mother always had done this multiple times, even when I was Lucy's age. A seven year old like Lucy shouldn't be in conditions like this, and I knew damn well that my father won't be available till 7AM. I thought about maybe walking up to the Landys house, maybe it was like 3 blocks or so.
“I think I'll walk to get Lucy. You wouldn't mind my little sis joining in our sleepover, right?”
“I mean, I don't have a big problem with it. Honestly, prefer it to just be you and me but I won’t be kicking and screaming if she is here.”
“That's true,” I nervously laughed, “Either way, Lucy is pretty much a sweet kid, and she will probably be distracted playing with her ballet Barbie dolls.”
Peeping through the windows, the sky was pitch black, almost like a void swallowing the whole town. I took a deep breath, before heading out of the door. Before stepping a foot outside of the wooden porch, I called out. “I'll be back, Kat. If I don't come back, the Skinned Men might’ve caught me!”
“Oh, don’t say that!” Kat calls at me as I walk away. She didn’t seem offended more lighthearted but there was a little seriousness there.
Kat always believed in the supernatural. While all of us grew up and just accepted it was just an urban legend that wasn’t real, Kat believed it. Kat even dedicated an entire essay on the history of the Skinned Man, and where the legend originated from. Needless to say, there wasn’t much to go off of and because Kat is very committed to things, she decided to embellish the details a bit and even I knew that a lot of that stuff was all pulled out of thin air and had no actual weight to it. They were just urban legends that little kids would scare others with. Along those tales were the Triple Tree.
Everyone would carve their names in the Triple Tree, serving like a talisman to these Skinned Men. If you didn’t, then I guess you were fucked. I never really carved my name, for some damn reason, my dad never let me. The moon shined brightly, casting light to these liminal streets. I was already used to walking at night, but for some odd reason, something was off. Crossing the right side of the neighborhood, I caught some headlights shining through the bushes. It looked like it belonged to an old police cruiser, and that alone made me start running. I was not a fan of the officers here, plus I was definitely violating a curfew.
“C’mon, Pauly,” I uttered under my breath, jumping through some fences.
I landed on the backside of the Landy’s house, my knees landing on top of the pavement. Hissing in pain, I slowly wobbled towards the front side of the house. It was stupid of me to think that I would magically land on my feet, but then again I had the shitiest luck. Quickly, I knocked on the door three times, after the fourth knock, the white adorned door swung open. In front of me was a cinnamon brown haired 14 year old boy, who had that bored expression that every teenager had. I recognized that boy as Parker Landy, the youngest of the Landy family.
“Uh, can I help you?” Parker wrinkled his nose, while he adjusted his glasses.
I furrowed my brows, “I’m here for my sister. For Lucy.”
“Oh, okay. Um, I guess you can come in.”
Parker reluctantly ushered me inside, as I wasted no time to search for Lucy. There, located in the dinning, Lucy was drawing while Mrs. Landy was brushing her dark little locks of hair. She was wearing a baby pink ballet uniform, the one that my dad bought her for her birthday. Ecstatic, Lucy jumped up from the chair and darted to my direction. We bid farewell to Mrs. Landy, heading out into the night. However, I caught a glimpse of her face morphing into a sorrowful look. ‘She must have been worried for us,’ I thought, mainly because it was just two girls heading out, embracing the unforgiving night.
“Pauly, where’s mommy?” Lucy’s wide eyes looked at me, grabbing my hand ever so tightly.
I sighed, thinking how to word out an appropriate response, “She’s just working a lot in the diner. So we can afford your ballet classes,” I had lied, flashing an assurring smile. I didn’t want Lucy to know the truth, she was an innocent kid after all.
Crossing up that same street again, I could sense that we were almost close to safety. Or so I thought. A slow rumbling sound of an engine followed behind. It was pitch dark outside, so I couldn’t really tell what color the vehicle was, but I did recognize it. What my eyes could grapple from what little information it had at the time, it was just that damn old police cruiser. Just as I was about to run with Lucy, the dark tinted windows rolled down, revealing an old familiar face.
“Ah little Miss Rhoades. What brings you here past curfew, hmm?” Ex Sheriff Clery asked, while flashing a very wide smile. I remember him being the Sheriff since the 1950s, not before being replaced by Robocop Walker.
Lucy bounced up and down, as she exclaimed “Me and Pauly are going home! Mommy and Daddy are still at work!”
Clery’s gaze looked back at me, his grin growing ever so slightly larger. “Oh really? It’s quite dark out here, you girls might need a lift.”
“No thank-” “Yes please!” Lucy quickly cut me off as she threw the car door open.
She quickly slithered herself in the backseat, while I was too stunned to comprehend. It left me no choice but to take this impromptu ride. Trembling, I sat next to Lucy, shutting the car door behind me. A loud click followed, as both doors were locked.
The whole ride I was scared shitless. I didn’t know why, but I guess I scared myself alot reading Missing Persons cases. I mean, I just entered a car with a person I barely knew. Yes, I know he’s a cop and his entire job is to keep us safe, but I couldn’t help but feel this sense of unease creeping into my conscious mind. It might be from the hundreds of “Stranger Danger” PSAs I’ve been fed all my young life. Lucy probably noticed how tense I looked, latching herself onto my arm.
“It's okay Pauly, the Skinned Men won't catch us anymore. We're safe here!” Lucy nuzzled on my arm, clearly obvious about the situation.
Sheriff Clery let out a chuckle, adding on “Little Lucy's right. No need to worry about those monsters when you're the old sheriff, eh?”
I nervously laughed along, just wishing that we’ll be at our destination already. That just put me even more on edge. I decided to dare a glance at the interior back mirror and I saw a pair of eyes seemingly staring at me and my sister with a look that just sent a chill down my spine. I tried to rationalize that maybe I’m just imagining things but the way he was staring at us was undeniably unsettling.
It was not after a minute later we arrived. The whole minute felt like hours, rightfully so I bolted out of the cruiser with Lucy in my arms. Before reaching the front door, the older man called out, “Be careful next time. You won’t know what’s lurking around these parts.”
After that the police cruiser drove off into the dark void of the unknown. That sentence alone carried an unsettling meaning, yet I could never pinpoint why. Objectively, it was quite normal. It was just a man showing a kind gesture but my gut was screaming not to trust this person. I tried to just brush it off as a misunderstanding but it was so strange I couldn’t.
∆∆∆
“So,” Kat began. “The place still has Prescott’s name written all over the place even after everything that happened?”
“I believe so,” I took a deep breath before continuing, “I really hope it’ll be over now. Sometimes, I wished I could live on with life. Like nothing happened, you know?”
The melody of the forest sung around us as we took in the fresh day’s air and the warm embrace of the midsummer’s sun. We’ve walked through this forest hundreds of times before but it’s like discovering uncharted territories every time we step foot in it. It feels different now. It seems bleaker than it was when we were children. Maybe it’s just an optical illusion or that every memory of my childhood feels like a dream.
“God,” Kat scoffs. “I’d scrub that name off the earth if I could.”
“I have to admit, everytime I see that name, something bad always happens. It's almost as if it was cursed.” My gaze shifted back to the abundance of trees, each of them being so eerily identical. “Thomas Prescott really did sell his soul, and everyone had to pay the price.”
“Don’t remind me.” Kat almost growls like a wolf to a degree that caught me off guard.
Shit, I definitely struck a nerve there. Why? Why did that set her off the way it did? I tried to change the subject into something else. I really didn’t want to upset Kat any further, I felt guilty just by saying that.
“It’s so silent here, I don’t know if I should be on edge or relaxed.”
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to sound like that. I don’t know what came over me.”
Kat’s eyes dart around before she runs her fingers through her hair with a sigh. It didn’t occur to me until just now that she had been watching everywhere and everything all at once. Every little movement her eyes locked onto. Could be just a natural reaction. I’m sure her line of work requires her to be hyper-vigilant so maybe it carries into her normal day-to-day life.
“You don’t need to apologize, Kat. I was the one who was pushing too much.” The wind blew softly, remnants of leaves danced in the air. It reminded alot about how life is, always pushing you in unpredictable directions. “I was thinking after this, maybe we should help each other out. My therapist gave me the advice that some wounds can’t heal by themself.”
“I can help you. I don’t really need help myself. When I was on the field, I was given state mandated therapy. It was important to do so to not go actually insane from all the messed up things we see. Trust me, there’s a reason why a lot of us quit after a few years of service.”
“ I see,” I gave Kat a crooked smile, “You're resilient, that's what I admired about you.”
Even after all those years, Kat still had those strong traits of being smart and strong. I could help but feel proud of her, and I wished her the best. I got closer to Kat, as I leaned on one of the oak trees nearby.
With a playful tone, I asked. “So when are you gonna show me how to use one of those?” I pointed at her gun.
“You?” Kat laughs. “I thought you hated loud noises?”
I shrugged, raising one of my brows. “Still do. It's just in case anything goes south. Or maybe I wanna impress somebody.”
“I’ll teach you soon. No doubt about that. I don’t have any ear protection on me and this beauty can get pretty loud.”
As we took in the forest’s lush surroundings, I noticed something that I haven’t seen before despite being out here for god knows how many times. There was a perfectly healthy tree in front of us but it seemed as if the bark had been ripped and torn definitely unnaturally; it had to have been done by someone, not an animal.
Kat and I exchange confused looks as we walk closer to the tree. Then, it all came together. I didn’t want to think that someone would have done this again. Not after the original was burnt to the ground a long time back. On the tree there were signatures. It sent an ungodly chill through my whole body. I looked over to Kat to see her reaction and she looked like she was frozen in time. With a look of shock and fear instilled upon her very body.
“It can't be. There's a new one here, but how?” My mouth was agape as I reached to touch the bark of the tree. My fingers grazed against each little individual signature. Each of them being unique, much like their owners’ names.
I look back at Kat. I realized I was mistaken, or perhaps it just shifted. Her look, it wasn't out of fear, no, it was out of resentment and hate and a boiling rage that I could tell is about to spill through. I know that even if I were to manage to say anything in this situation, I couldn’t prevent it from all coming out. What could I say? This isn’t anything I’ve seen from Kat. She always had a way to relieve her own anger but this was an anger that even the cool-minded Kat could not keep under control. Like a wildfire that had found a negligent camper’s gasoline can.
“Kat–”
“They think they can control me even in death but they can’t.” Kat whispers to herself quickly. I barely had time to process before the wildfire finally found the gas. “THEY FUCKING CAN’T!”
Kat lifts her shirt slightly, revealing her concealed gun. A Pit Viper. She draws it at a speed I barely had time to comprehend as she switches off the safety and takes a stance.
“Wait! Kat!”
That was all I could get out before I was overtaken by an ear splitting explosion. I barely had time to register the second one before the third went off. It was the same for the fourth and the fifth. My ears rang the loudest they have ever in my life as the pain in my ears set in and the agony of my head throbbing so hard that I thought my brain would burst from it alone. The sounds echoed through the forest. All the birds and the bugs and creatures stopped in unison as if Kat slain them herself.
And then.
Silence.

FYI, this is a story COLLECTION. Lots of standalones technically. So, you can basically start to read at any chapter, no pre-read of the other chapters needed technically (other than maybe getting better descriptions of characters than: Adam Vir=human, Krill=antlike alien, Sunny=tall alien, Conn=telepathic alien). The numbers are (mostly) only for organization of posts and continuity.
OC Written by Charlie Stastarrfallknightrise,
Typed up and then posted here by me.
Proofreading and language check for some chapters by u/Finbar9800 u/BakeGullible9975 u/Didnotseemecomein and u/medium_jock
Future Lore and fact check done by me.
Domestic assault? Whaaaat? Noooo! That’s just normal romantic Drev foreplay!
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Want to find a specific one, see the whole list or check fanart?
Here is the link to the master-post.
Sunny left the room in an uproar to look for Adam.
The translation unit was almost overloaded with the noise behind her, but she didn't need it to understand the human's words as they yelled at each other, both sides polarizing for and against her and Adam as she stepped from the room.
Truth be told it didn't bother Sunny much, having spent her entire life rejected by her own mother, having only recently gotten over that, she found that dealing with other people wasn't so hard, but she knew what this meant for Adam as close to his family as he was.
She found him outside on the deck pacing back and forth with his hands behind his back. She was surprised to see more anger in his expression than fear or doubt. His chin was held high, jaw clenched.
She knew that look.
"Are you ok?”
He swiveled to face her, his face flushed with red.
"I think I might have screwed up."
His voice was calm.
Sunny tilted her head,
“What's done is done."
He paused and nodded in agreement.
She offered up the plate she had brought him,
"Are you going to eat, or should I just throw this away?”
He paused looking at the plate and then looked up at the sky and sighed deeply.
"No I... I have something I need to do."
And then to her surprise he turned back on his heel and marched back into the house, leaving her standing confused in his wake. Still holding the plate, she hurried after him, finding she had to jog lightly to keep up with his strides despite him being a foot shorter than her as he marched through the living room and back into the dining room where the tumult had only gotten louder. Martha was standing alongside her husband across the table from her parents and an uncle. David was red in the face standing next to his mother as Jordan held onto his arm trying to calm him down. Uncle Ben and his family Sat wide eyed in silence as Maya herded the children out of the room and into the next. David and Jordan's son had burst into tears at the uproar and Kimber was valiantly trying to calm him down as she was led away.
Eris sat shrunken into the corner, holding her hoodie down over her ears rocking back and forth seeming like she was suffering some kind of breakdown.
Adam paused at the head of the table and tried to shout to be heard over the tumult, but despite his best efforts he was being drowned out.
Sunny pulled up next to him drawing in a breath to give them her best war cry.
They had tested it at one point a Drev at the height of shouting could reach 140 decibels which was as loud as a gunshot, but just as she was about ready to start, Eris took to her feet hands balled into fists.
"Everyone just, STOP!!!"
Her voice wasn't very loud, but the psychic wave that she produced hit the entire room like an explosion. The humans rocked on their feet, hands to their heads. A couple fell out of their seats clutching their ears. Sunny felt dizzy, and when she was finally able to look up the room was a picture of silent carnage, almost akin to a renaissance painting. Adam's family members were hunched or crouched next to their seats, their hands over their ears. Some lay on the floor looking shocked. Uncle Ben was holding a shattered glass.
Adam was the only one still standing, but instead of addressing the room he hurried across the floor to where Eris was still sitting on her seat, hands over her ears. He knelt in front of her and gently took her hands,
"I'm so sorry Eris, here..."
He paused and then turned towards where Thoms was sitting hand still to his head,
"Thomas can you go get the car started and maybe take Eris out for a little?”
The other man nodded dumbly, still holding his head as he got up,
Adam was still holding Eris hands,
"Hey, hey look at me. Thomas is going to go start the car, and I want you to go with him somewhere quieter, ok? While I get all of this sorted out. I'm so sorry kid, this is my fault."
She shook her head, but he wouldn't hear it, kissing the top of her head through her hoodie and then helping her to her feet where she hurried outside.
The entire room remained silent as Adam waited for the sound of the retreating car before he turned back to the room.
The look on his face was thunderous, and Sunny, realizing that she was not needed, plopped herself down in Thomas's vacated chair between a wide-eyed Grandpa Vir, and one of the aunts, and pulled the big salad bowl towards her. If she was going to be entertained, she might as well have a snack while doing it.
Adam, still standing at the head of the table looked a bit nonplussed as he stared at her, and she watched as the entire family's eyes turned to look at her. She crunched slowly on another piece of iceberg lettuce and motioned for them to continue.
”Give ‘em hell tiger! Don’t mind me.”
Adam took a deep breath and sighed before beginning,
"How DARE you!?"
The room was still silent.
He turned to make eye contact with everyone in the room, his single eye staring at them with such condemnation that many lowered their heads,
"Fighting, in front of the kids and guests like this!? It's reprehensible! Absolutely disgusting!”
He pounded his fist against the table,
"I thought you all were better than this!”
They looked down.
"When I was young MY family taught me to be accepting and inclusive of everyone. I was taught to be polite, caring and even love those who I disagreed with."
He paused for a moment gathering his thoughts,
"Since joining the UNSC I have met a lot of people and done a lot of things and during that time I have had the opportunity to better learn courage and compassion in a way that I don't think others will ever have the privilege of doing. So, shame on you, shame on you all for behaving like this after teaching me what you tried to teach."
He jabbed a finger at Martha's parents,
"You two especially, all dinner I have had to sit here and listen while the two of you made embarrassing and xenophobic comments at the behest of my friend..."
He paused then shook his head,
"No scratch that, the Love of my life, and my girlfriend, and I am sick and tired of hearing it! Plus, all of that bestiality bullshit!”
He slammed his hands against the table again,
"Bestiality!? Seriously!? That’s the most insulting thing I have ever heard in my entire life!!! She's NOT an ANIMAL, she is a sentient thinking person who is, and I have no DOUBT in my mind of this, waaay smarter than I will ever be. There is nothing wrong here, the only thing wrong is your fear and your prejudices. Finally, I find someone who I really care about and for some reason unknown to me that has to be some sort of problem?"
He glowered around the room.
Uncle Ben sat in his seat looking almost apologetic. Martha's mother looked as if she was about to cry while her husband looked silently defiant. Grandpa and Grandma Vir just looked on awkwardly.
"So does anyone have a problem with that?"
He went silent as the room waited.
It was then that Jim Vir, who had been, up until this point, sitting, still eating his dinner, picked up his glass and raised it,
"Here here!”
Jeremy, Maya, and David quickly grabbed their drinks too and raised them with their dad. Martha did the same, and eventually Grandma Vir raised her glass as well. A few members of the family seemed surprised, but followed suit. Of course, not everyone joined in. Uncle Ben's wife didn’t, and Martha's parents didn't, a few others were either too shocked or disgusted to do so. Once it was all over Martha's father stood, took his plate and walked into the study, shutting the door behind him leaving his wife sitting tearfully at the table.
Everyone waited…
Adam looked at his mother.
She motioned him to sit, and he did, and she took her seat as well.
Sunny watched as the family slowly groaned back into place as David forced a conversation between himself and uncle Ben. Eventually the table was speaking again, and the children slowly filtered back in. Jordan went out to comfort their son, who was brought back red eyed and puffy cheeked, but happy enough. Kimber, smart for her age, walked in and hugged Adam once, before running over to sit next to Sunny. Both Waffles and Jeffrey had come over to sit with Adam, Waffles resting on his feet and Jeffrey slithering out his human leg.
The table remained tense.
Sunny didn't mind. She was almost having fun occasionally shooting a glance over at Adam who remained stiff and straight backed.
Martha's mother eventually opened her mouth in a gargantuan effort to seem polite, looked at Sunny,
"So uh... Sunny why don't you tell us about your family?”
Adam stiffened the fork halfway to his lips, David spilled water on his lap and Martha choked on her food.
"Oh… My mother tried to throw me into a volcano when I was born and my father is dead. It was a glorious death though, Adam was pretty much directly responsible for it. As for my mother, she tried to kill me, so Adam beat her unconscious with a rock, then she later came back and tried to kill him, so I crippled her and now she’s as good as dead, rotting in the GA’s biggest, most secured prison.”
Someone's glass shattered, uncle Ben tipped his plate onto his lap and Maya's husband looked as if he wanted to sink through the floor.
The table went silent again.
Across the table there was a sudden snorting noise, and Sunny turned her head to see Jim holding a glass to his lips. His eyes were squinted shut. He slowly lowered the glass from his mouth other hand over his mouth, shoulders shaking.
The entire table stared at him.
It continued to shake for a little bit until a small squeak escaped him, and then he could no longer contain himself as full low laughter broke from him, shaking the table and causing the glassware to clatter.
Sunny was the second person to begin laughing until the entire table was uneasily going along with it.
"Oh heavens!"
Jim punted,
"What a clusterfuck!”
"Jim!"
Martha scolded him as he continued to giggle,
"This couldn't get worse, could it? Like objectively more awkward?"
Adam was smiling slightly as his father laughed, taking another sip of his drink. Sunny hummed low in her chest setting the empty salad bowl back on the table.
Jim waved a hand at Adam,
"Go on, get out of here before it gets worse."
He continued to laugh. Adam looked relieved and thanked his dad before standing. Sunny did the same, and in a seemingly random act of defiance Adam took her hand as he walked out. Sunny hummed softly as she was dragged towards the front door and outside.
He paused to take a deep breath once they were out on the front porch.
He turned to look at her and she tilted her head,
"So, does this mean we are a thing again?"
Adam paused, withered as if he was going to back out and then set his jaw straightening up with a deep breath,
"If you'd take me back, then yes."
She tilted her head as if thinking about it, but seeing the encroaching panic on the man's face she nodded,
"Yes obviously, I'm sorry, I won't tease you anymore."
The look of relief on his face was almost heartbreaking as he grabbed her hand again,
"Come on."
"Come on what?"
"We are going on a date."
"Oh really?"
"Yes, really now get in the damn car before I have a heart attack."
"Mmmmm you're kinda cute when you order me around."
He raised an eyebrow at her from over the car roof,
"Oh yeah? Well, there's more where that came from."
She hummed again as she took her seat, the car doors slamming on either side of them. She listened to the engine as it thrummed to life. She glanced over at him, only to see him whiteknuckling the steering wheel as they drove down the gravel drive.
Sunny wasn't entirely sure if that was because of what had just happened or because Adam hated driving. They passed Thomas and Eris heading back and both paused in the road windows rolled down.
He leaned his head out the window,
"Hey you guys ok?”
Thomas nodded,
"Yeah Eris suggested milkshakes, so we went out."
He reached over with a closed fist, and Eris gave him a fist bump,
"Never told me how fucking cool my niece was!”
Adam smiled,
"I thought it was obvious."
"You guys leaving?"
"Just for a little while."
"How did things go after we left?”
Adam shrugged,
"I chewed out Mom's parents and then we finished dinner, got so awkward, dad laughed so hard he almost pissed himself, you know the usual family reunion shit."
Thomas snorted,
"Well you two crazy kids have some fun. I return to the house of Evil."
Adam laughed and the two of them slowly began to pull away.
Sunny watched them go and then turned back to Adam,
"So, you've never really called it a date before. A human courting ritual I assume?”
He nodded.
"What should I expect?"
"Well, we are going to go out and have dinner then maybe see a movie and go for a walk."
"We just had dinner."
"Yeah and I'm already hungry."
The two of them laughed and he took a long slow breath as they pulled onto the main highway.
He was a man of his word, and she got a second dinner before going to see a movie. It was an action movie, as the only kind of movies Sunny could really pay attention to, though Adam said she tended to ruin them by judging the realistic nature of the fight choreography before she pointed out that he always judged the planes.
[…]
It was later that night walking out of the movie theater laughing, that they fell back into step with each other. Sunny lifted her head to the night air breathing in slowly. She loved the smell of Earth. She wasn't sure why. Maybe it was because she associated it with humans, and that was associated with Adam. He took her down a partially lit pathway into one of the parks illuminated by the faint yellow glow of the lanterns. Other people were walking here too, and all around them bioluminescent bugs winked in the darkness.
Adam reached down to pick up a discarded stick, which he spun between his hands absently.
Sunny was just enjoying the air when she noticed a sudden change in his posture. It was only that notice that saved her, and she ducked as he swung, narrowly missing her beak by a few inches.
She dodged backwards keeping low to the ground as he advanced grinning.
"That is hardly fair, attacking me when I'm unarmed."
"Is it my fault you weren't prepared?”
Sunny dodged back, grabbing a stick from the ground and bringing it up to meet his downward stroke. She threw his attack to the side and jabbed for his middle though he backed away at the last second.
Their fight only grew more elaborate as they danced up and down the walkways, leaping up onto benches and playground equipment as they ranged across the park. Startled couples walking in the darkness jolted to the side as they raced past. Sunny cut down, shearing Adam's stick straight in half.
He looked down in surprise, ducked under her swing and then pulled back coming at her again, but changing up his style so he was now using the two sticks as weapons. Sunny found it rather hard to keep him back with two weapons against her one, though her reach was far superior. She caught him once in the side, but gave it up for a kick in the chest. She staggered back and he came in overhead with both of the sticks which she caught on hers. They stayed locked there for a moment before he reached out a foot and tipped her onto the grass.
She fell and he fell with her weapons still locked.
She looked up at him, the UV blue of his stripes rendered more purple by the dim light.
Sunny felt something rather strange just then and let go, flipping him onto his back in the grass where he lay breathing hard.
"You pulled your punch."
She grunted sitting up.
"I well yeah... I like you, I don't want to hurt you."
"You know where I come from since you like me, you should hit me harder.”
"Where I come from that is called domestic violence."
They laughed again and then paused still breathing hard.
"I feel... strange."
He propped himself up on his elbow to look over at her,
"What do you mean?”
She explained and he raised an eyebrow,
"Well, that's good, that's kind of how you are supposed to feel after what we just did I guess."
"What do you even mean."
She stared at him confused and he inched over, pushing her back into the grass before holding his hands up,
"May I define: foreplay. Now I’m not going to define you what “being horny” is, you can ask Ramirez about that… on second thought don’t, better not tell him about that…"
"Jerk."
She kicked him back onto the ground where he lay in the dirt.
"Since when did you know how to flirt?”
"Apparently since about ten minutes ago."
He looked over at her,
"Since when did you even know what flirting is?”
She grumbled,
"We have flirting on my planet."
"Punching someone in the face does not count as flirting."
"Then clearly you don't understand true romance."
He continued to laugh some more, but just then they heard a sharp siren and then were lit up by bright blue and red light. Adam sat up quickly, as did Sunny, and the two of them sat there in surprise as two figures walked towards them from the darkness, one of them holding a flashlight. Adam held up his hand to cover his eyes as the two police officers walked forward.
"Everything alright here?"
They asked, looking at Sunny in something akin to shock or awe.
Adam blushed,
"Uh yeah... Is something wrong, officer?"
"Just got a call a few minutes ago about a... Drev and some guy beating the shit out of each other in the park, that wasn't you two was it?”
Adam was blushing, though the lighting was his saving grace.
"Uh yea, that was us, but we were just... ahem… play fighting."
They glanced between him and Sunny, not entirely sure what to do.
Sunny nodded at them,
"Yes, we are sorry, and will try to tone it down next time."
The two officers glanced between the two of them, and one of them called in a false alarm on the radio before heading back to his car. Sunny And Adam ended up laughing again as the two men left them to be.
"Maybe we should go somewhere more private…”
"Probably a good idea."
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Here is the link to the master-post.
Intro post by me
OC-whole collection
Patreon of the author
Thanks for reading! As you saw in the title, this is a cross posted story written by starrfallknightrise and I'll just upload some of it here for you guys, if you are interested and want to read ahead, the original story-collection can be found on tumblr or wattpad to read for free. (link above this text under "OC:..." ) It is the Empyrean Iris story collection by starfallknightrise. Also, if you want to know more about the story collection i made an intro post about it, so feel free to check that out to see what other great characters to look forward to! (Link also above this text). I have no affiliations to the author; just thought I’d share some of the great stories you might enjoy a lot!
Obviously, I have Charlie’s permission to post this and for the people already knowing the stories, or starting to read them: If you follow the link and check out the story you will see some differences. I made some small (non-artistic) changes, mainly correcting writing mistakes, pronoun correction and some small additional info here and there of things which were not thought of/forgotten or even were added/changed in later stories (like the “USS->UNSC” prefix of Stabby, Chalar=/->Sunny etc). As well as some "biggemajor" changes in descriptions and info’s for the same stringency/continuity reason. That can be explained by the story collection being, well a story collection at the start with many standalone-stories just starring the same people, but later on it gets more to a stringent storyline with backstories and throwbacks. (For example Adam Vir has some HEAVY scars over his body, following his bones, which were not really talked about up till half the collection, where it says it covers his whole body and you find out via backflash that he had them the whole time and how he got them, they just weren't mentioned before. However, I would think a doctor would at least see these scars before that, especially since he gets analyzed, treated and goes shirtless/in T-shirts in some stories). So TLDR: Writing and some descriptions are slightly changed, with full OK from the author, since he himself did not bother to correct these things before.

Since startups need to invest their capital for immediate or short term gains in marketing,you can spend money on spreading awareness for the product it is mainly for big companies with large budgets.
Small business needs to focus on returns on their investment. Most of the small business makes mistake on speding campaigns of broad natured or traffic oriented else you will loose your capital without any substancial returns.
The algorithm gives you what you ask for. If you want sales, run sales campaigns. Awareness and traffic campaigns don't get people in buying mode.
Sharing some of the learning through promoting ad campaigns on facebook, linkedin and instagram

• Focus on conversion-oriented campaigns to make the most out of limited budgets:
  • Instead of running campaigns aimed solely at generating brand awareness or website traffic, prioritize campaigns that are designed to drive conversions, such as purchases, sign-ups, or app downloads. These campaigns directly contribute to revenue generation and offer a clearer return on investment (ROI).
  • Efficient Budget Allocation: By concentrating your budget on conversion-focused campaigns, you ensure that every dollar spent is geared towards achieving tangible business outcomes, maximizing the impact of your limited advertising budget.
• Regularly update and test creatives to keep the audience engaged and reduce CPA:
  • Audience engagement tends to decline over time when exposed to the same ad creatives repeatedly. Regularly updating your ad creatives with fresh content, visuals, and messaging helps maintain audience interest and prevents ad fatigue. A title which addresses the pain with a solution is great.
  • Titles addressing pain points with solutions, tend to perform well.
  • Test & learn: Continuously test different creative elements, such as imagery, copy, headlines, and calls-to-action, to identify what resonates best with your target audience. This iterative testing process allows you to refine your creatives and optimize performance, ultimately reducing your cost per acquisition (CPA) by improving ad relevance and engagement. Do your A/B testing
• Understand key performance metrics and make data-driven decisions:
  
  • Familiarize yourself with essential metrics such as CPA, return on ad spend (ROAS), conversion rate, click-through rate (CTR), and customer acquisition cost (CAC), Average order value(AOV). These metrics provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of your ad campaigns and help measure their impact on your business goals.
  • Data Analysis: Regularly analyze campaign performance data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. By leveraging data-driven insights, you can make informed decisions about campaign optimization, budget allocation, audience targeting, and creative strategy, leading to better overall results.
• Structure your ad account efficiently, emphasizing sales and retargeting campaigns:
  
  • Diversify ad spend across multiple platforms:Start with one and expand your advertising efforts beyond a single platform to reach a broader audience across different channels such as Google Ads, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter, or Pinterest. Each platform offers unique targeting capabilities and audience demographics, allowing you to maximize reach and effectiveness.
  • Having an avtaar of your customer will help you craft better ad campaigns to reach your dream customers.
  • Channel Optimization: Tailor your ad creatives, messaging, and targeting strategies to suit the specific characteristics and user behaviors of each platform. Experiment with different ad formats and optimization techniques to identify which channels yield the best results for your business objectives.

These are some of the practices that would help in achieving results based on revenue generation. Startups should prioritize revenue generation over obsessing about branding. Your brand won't grow if you don't have revenue to sustain it.

With the permission of the White Moon for the research of what's left of ABELARD and it's technology. Research of this unknown technology can massively boost each of our plans and goals.
Our best AI research team will covertly arrive to the Imperium, and we will begin a series of joint experiments and broad research.
After thoroughly researching the current research notes and operation reports, we have several conclusions:

• We have no reports of the laboratory from any data gathered after Guiana's operation. This is odd, as the database we have recovered was heavily related to AI research. Potentially, the laboratory was airgapped, and not recovered after the German invasion.
• Likewise, we have no information which can aid to the "Russian combat units" reports. Potentially, we might consider the Northern Fleet as one, which was engaged with the Germany during the French invasion (which can also be considered as "eastern incursion".
• Our working theory is that ABELARD and it's "hive mind" might have an origin of either the abandoned French research team, French resistance fighters, or a lost Alfr. Potentially all of it combined, in one way or another.

We will analyze the data for the future, and turn to the PARIS-03 - a brain control chip.

Part 1 - Chip/Hive research

• We will provide the facility with "Football Fever" and "Slayer" chips - useful for cross-reference of the hive mind nature. Likewise, we will take a batch of the PARIS-03 to our facilities for further research.
• After researching the existing chips, we are to conduct a test production run of the PARIS-03 chips, provided we have access to PARIS-07.
• The chips are to be distributed to a number of blank Alfr Replicant and Everlasting/Summer units (with significantly limited combat capabilities). High security is advised and the facility is to be checked for signal penetration.
• This is to check the nature of the hive mind without a controller. We have several hypothesis:
  
• • The PARIS-07 can work as a control unit itself, and a person can assume direct control through the facility
• • The hive mind can center around a "Controller" (Similar to Neymarite hive mind) and the rest are either the the extensions of it's will, or are highly influenced by the controller.
• • The hive mind can work as a distributed independent hive mind with no direct control or a controller.
• We will test the hostility, cognitive performance, and overall characteristics of the nascent "blank" hive mind.
  
• Based on this hive mind and chip research, we are also to research potential countermeasures and possibilities regarding subversion of a potentially hostile hive mind.
  
• We will also research the possibility to use the PARIS-07 to modify the chip to our needs, limiting or changing some of the functionality.
  

Part 2 - BCI

Based on the overall research of the chips, we are to begin integration of the chip's technology into our research and industry.

• The main goal is to rebuild the PARIS-03 into a BCI unit, integrating Alfr and Everlasting BCI technologies into the system. Disabling (or limiting) the "hive mind" aspect and focusing on the "melding" aspects, we seek to massively improve the integration between an organic brain and a photonic co-processor, bringing forth true fidelity of the brain-machine interface.
• Additionally, we are to integrate same technology in the interfaces connecting bionic/organic organs to the synthetic chassis, improving overall performance.

The result should be a technology allowing to massively improve the performance of our Everlasting and Alfr as intelligent beigns, taking the best from all.

Part 3 - Hive mind integration

At this point, we aren't interested in a complete hive mind for many reasons. However, we are interested in integrating it for some purposes, mainly:

• Battlefield integration - The various battlenetworks (Sovyenok for us, we are sure Alfheimr also had something) are already hive minds in practice, just not as sophisticated. We consider the following:
  
• • Integrating the principles and the base technology regarding distributed networks and communications into the battlenetwork technology for our Sovyenok system, allowing for a faster, more efficient, but still non-sentient "pseudo hive-mind". Analogue can be made for the Imperium.
• Allow for a limited integration of the hive mind's direct communication systems into the SummeAlfr chassis. While not a direct intervention, we consider an ability to massively coordinate all military units through the field and operate as a single entity a massive increase in efficiency. Some considerations and blocks are made:
  
• • The BCI's have blocks on the mind integration, focusing on a surface thought sharing and messages, which can prove useful in a battlefield. Also, we can try to integrate this on a more limited scale in a civilian environment, making a more efficient (or a more discreet), and more direct alternative to social media.
• • The BCI's have control from the inside, not outside - the person maintains full autonomy and can connect to the broader network (working either as a battlenetwork or a social media). We consider that quite important to prevent an actual hive mind from taking control, or a foreign attempt at subversion)

Part 3 - Protection

This is specifically made for the research of the subversion protocols, related to Alfr's technology takeover. Researching the protocols and their interraction with Alfr, we are:

• Develop them further and work on their integration into our EW, in case of a hostile attack from Alfr-using nation like the New Alfheimr.
• Likewise, develop the protocols further to check their work on any sentient/non-sentient AI and drones in general
• Develop protective measures to prevent the technology from working on us or the Imperium Alfr.

Part 4 - Replication

After the initial experiments and through research, we will work on replicating the functions of the PARIS-07. Disassembling, catalogizing, and studying the unit thoughtfully, in case there are any other functions we could miss, we will study the possibility of replicating the production unit - either for the practices to be integrated into a regular factory, or the standalone unit. After that, we will study if we can copy the unit, and if there are any differences between them, we will ship the unit (using a private cargo plane to Karachi, and from there using Stealth Quinjets) to our facility for further research and integration.
Finally, after the research, we will also look at a joint integration of the technology into the batlte units outside of the BCI.

Molluscum can present as bothersome bumps, especially when it inhabits the genital region. To answer your question, yes, there is a way to tell molluscum contagiosum from genital warts. Mollusca—also known as water warts—is a condition of the skin caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). Transmission of this virus can occur directly through skin-to-skin or sexual contact or indirectly through infected towels, toys, or other surfaces. While it’s primarily diagnosed in children ages two to five, it can still be spread to sexually active teens, adults, and those who are immunocompromised. Other risk factors include having eczema or asthma.
Other ways that Mollusca and genital warts can be distinguished from each other include symptoms, complications, and prevention and treatment methods. Both Mollusca and genital warts are typically asymptomatic but can burn, itch, or bring discomfort in some cases. While both conditions usually resolve on their own, the virus that causes genital warts—the Human papillomavirus (HPV)— remains dormant and never truly leaves the body. On the other hand, once Mollusca has healed, the virus no longer exists in the body, although reinfection can still occur. Additionally, HPV can cause cancer (cervical, anal, oral, etc.), while Mollusca isn’t known to cause further medical complications or conditions. In terms of prevention, both conditions share some common measures, such as avoiding direct contact with lesions, not sharing towels, practicing safe sex, and sanitizing surfaces.