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actaeoncross · 2 years

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Pinwheels

Part One

Murkitt, Minnesota

Marie tucked another errant curl into place. Why she attempted to wrangle her hair into place was beyond her. A frown passed across the young girl’s face. If it hadn’t been for Harry, she would have cut the black curls into place. Harry always said that Charles liked women with long hair and didn’t care for the new shorter trends. They wouldn’t be so inclined to escape if they had no length to take them anywhere. Sighing in resignation, Marie placed the papers she carried on the desk to rearrange her hair. As Marie tucked the strand back into place beneath her headband, her eyes met those of Mr. Thorn.

The older man was watching her with distaste etched into his features. Many of the men who did not go off to fight in the Great War disproved women making their way into the workforce. Mr. Thorn was the loudest in their office. He had nothing but swell things to say when she first appeared in offices. There had been compliments on what a pretty, young creature she was, and he exalted Harry for going to fight. James Thorn’s opinion quickly changed when Mr. White asked him to train her to take Harry’s place. Since he found something to nitpick her about each day, the complaints could be about her dress for the office, her work (which was impeccable according to Mr. White himself), or her relationship with Mr. White.

“Marie!” Mr. White’s voice rang across the room. The agency they worked for was squeezed in with other businesses in one large building. Mr. White’s office as the lead was relatively small. Rumors did say this was temporary while another building was built especially for Gideon. Marie grabbed the topmost sheet from her desk and made her way to his office.

“Is everything okay? You’re not letting that louse Thorn get to you?”

Charles Edward White sat on the corner of his desk, observing her closely. A crease where his brows furrowed marred his handsome features. Marie watched as his features settled after she shook her head no in answer to his inquiries. Charles had always been so very, very kind to her. It almost hurt at times that the auburn-haired, hazel-eyed Adonis treated her as a little sister. She had been in love with the man almost as long as he’d been friends with her brother. Would he ever see her as something more? Harry certainly didn’t help matters. How could he ask Charles to watch out for her?! Like she was still some small, helpless girl.

“I was just curious, why did you scrap this delivery request? We opened and filled a much larger hotel just last week,” Marie inquired, offering the sheet.

“It’s that little Minnesota hotel, isn’t it?” Charles asked before confirming it with the paper.

“If it’s because it wasn’t a new hotel-”

“No, that’s not it. We simply don’t have a guy who wants to deliver. Costs are increasing with the war, and we don’t have the funding.”

“I’ll go! You can’t deny them the Holy Word for such a reason!”

“Marie, I couldn’t possibly put you in potential danger,” Charles replied calmly to her outburst.

“Oh, bull! You know very well I would be in perfect safety. You just don’t want to do anything Harry might be upset with!” Marie couldn’t stop the slight tap of her foot in frustration.

For once, the expression on his face was one she couldn’t read. It was a perfect mask as he silently contemplated her. Marie bit the tip of her tongue. She would not back down this time! They were behind deliveries without Harry’s help. Charles had barely let her take any of Harry’s clerical duties. Both would rather keep her locked away safe in a home.

“Charles, please. You said it was little. Wouldn’t that be better than a city job?” Marie asked gently.

“How does Harry ever say no to you?” Charles groaned, passing a hand through his hair. “I’ll have some conditions.”

Marie was certain no one else received this type of treatment. She could only imagine what the others would say if they caught wind. Charles White paid for her a ticket in one of the Pullman cars on the train. The plush carpets, exquisite furnishings, and attendants made her feel like she lived in luxury. However, she could hardly enjoy the experience. An odd, nagging feeling of something missing and dread kept passing over her.

“It’s simply the nerves of traveling alone,” Marie told herself.

Harry had always been with her the few times such travel was required. Her thoughts turned towards her twin. He had been so eager to sign and ship out for war. At first, she had telegrams telling her of Europe, and then the messages stopped. Harry only sent a telegram when his post changed. It had been months, and Charles said he didn’t have much more than her. Charles avoided her eyes whenever she attempted to question him about Harry. They were keeping things from her. No doubt worried about telling a woman such things as war! Instead, they thought it better to have her fret and worry should the thought of Harry cross her mind. Harry was with her every moment of the day. Until he packed up and left, Marie couldn’t have imagined a day without him at her side.

The train shuddered to a stop, and Marie hastily prepared to disembark. Charles had said he would have her a carriage ready to travel the last legs to Murkitt. Marie met with the man driving the carriage and thanked him profusely for loading the box of Bibles for her. After a long, shuddering ride down poor roads, an unfamiliar smell made Marie gag as they approached the town.

“Watch your step. We’ve more chicken than people, and they make a bit of a mess,” the carriage driver warned.

Marie carefully side-stepped a pile with her neat, cloth boots. She was already regretting taking this assignment. No one had mentioned that Murkitt, Minnesota abounded with chickens and their excrement! Marie could only imagine how people lived with such a stench lingering throughout their homes. The town should be called Chickentown! Travelers would have a fair warning of what to expect with such a name.

Marie blocked her nose with her hand as she attempted to take a deep breath. She begged Charles for this chance. She couldn’t simply turn back over a few chickens when she was already here. At least the cotton dress she wore was light and not floor length. It was light-colored, but she would spend most of her time within the hotel before leaving. Besides, she should be able to finish quickly enough. The hotel looked small from the outside.

“It won’t be difficult,” Marie told herself.

Raising her head high and squaring her shoulders, Marie confidently strode towards the hotel’s front doors. The driver carried two neatly packaged boxes of bibles ahead of her. She could begin immediately distributing them to the hotel’s rooms.

The work only took about one to two hours. Marie was pleased to note as she gently shut the last dresser drawer. She paused in front of the room’s mirror to adjust the yellow sash on her dress and slightly change the angle of her Niblick hat. Pleased with her appearance, Marie exited the room quickly as she could manage towards the lobby. Marie felt as though she could fly; she was so happy to leave this smelly town!

“I don’t think you should tell her,” the driver’s voice drifted down the hall.

“She needs to know. That’s not the sort of thing you stay mum about.”

“Just let her return to her family, and they can tell her. She wouldn’t know the difference.”

“I wouldn’t know the difference on what?” Marie interrupted the hushed conversation.

The older gentleman running the front desk exchanged a glance with the driver. His withered hands fiddled with a telegram message. Her green eyes caught sight of the slip of paper, and she filled with dread. The only telegrams she received were from Harry.

“It was Charles. He sent to check she arrived safely,” Marie attempted to reason with herself. Though, this did nothing to explain the whispered conversation she interrupted. It couldn’t be Harry. Her brother was all she had left in this world. If something happened to him…

“Please,” Marie gathered the remnants of her courage to whisper.

“You should take a seat first, ma’am,” the elderly man coaxed.

“Tell me what it says! Please.”

The two men exchanged a glance. The driver hurriedly muttered something about packing the carriage and quickly left. The remaining man cleared his throat and seemed at a loss on where to start. He smoothed the worried creases from the telegram and read the short message.

“Regret to inform you, Private Harold White killed in action Italy June 15th.”

She should have felt something, anything. A snap as he left or emptiness when he was gone. It wasn’t supposed to be from a telegram. She couldn’t breathe. Marie didn’t notice the man preparing to come and comfort her before turning to receive another telegram. She needed fresh air and somewhere to hide as she mourned. Marie stepped outside and hurried down the street. As Marie traveled further from Murkitt, tears began to obscure her vision. It wasn’t until she tripped and hit the ground that Marie noticed her surroundings.

A stinging in her hands had her focus first. There were shallow scrapes across her hands from where she caught herself. Marie looked down to see shattered seashells scattered in the dirt around her. Confused, Marie lifted her gaze to the high grass surrounding her. It looked like there was a wooden structure towering above the grass line. Marie unsteadily rose to her feet to take a better look and felt a sudden breeze. The air smelled of salt and the sea.

“This can’t be happening. I’ve gone crackers! There isn’t a sea in Minnesota,” were Marie’s last thoughts as water rapidly flooded the field.

#i'm in the process of joining ao3 for future updates #abarat #clive barker #fanfic #please be gentle #i haven't written in years beyond a clerk/secretary capacity #diamanda will be in the next update #please let me know the islands you're most interested in visiting #i hope to hit all of them once

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scotianostra · 1 year

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John Paton Laurie was born on 25th March 1897.

Laurie was born at Dumfries, to William Laurie, a clerk in a tweed mill and later a hatter and hosier, and Jessie Ann Laurie née Brown Laurie attended Dumfries Academy, before abandoning a career in architecture to serve in the First World War as a member of the Honourable Artillery Company. Upon his demobilisation, he trained to become an actor under Elsie Fogerty at the Central School of Speech and Drama, then based at the Royal Albert Hall, London and first acted on stage in 1921.

A prolific Shakespearian actor, Laurie spent much of the time between 1922 and 1939, playing Shakespearian parts including Hamlet, Richard III and Macbeth at the Old Vic or Stratford-upon-Avon.

He starred in his friend Laurence Olivier's three Shakespearean films, Henry V Hamlet and Richard III He and Olivier also appeared in "s You Like It. During the Second World War, Laurie served in the Home Guard - the only future Dad's Army cast member to do so.

His early work in films included Juno and the Paycock, directed by Alfred Hitchcock. His breakthrough third film was Hitchcock's The 39 Steps in which his menacing, understated performance as a crofter (opposite Peggy Ashcroft) is particularly memorable. Other work included Peter Manson in The Edge of the World, Clive Candy's batman in The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp, the farmer recruit in The Way Ahead, the brothel proprietor in Fanny by Gaslight, the repugnant Pew in Disney's Treasure Island and Doctor MacFarlane in Hobson's Choice. In the 1945 film I Know Where I'm Going!, Laurie had a small speaking part in a céilidh sequence for which he was also credited as an adviser.

It was on the small screen that we remember Laurie most fondly as Private Frazer in Dad’s Army with his 'Wur doomed, wur awl doomed....” catchphrase. He cropped up in four episodes of the popular classic TV Show, The Avengers, playing a different role each time and in three episodes of Dr. Finlay's Casebook again playing different roles. Of course with a voice like his he was a natural as a storyteller on the bairns TV show Jackanory.

One of his final appearances, looking slightly frail, was in Return to the Edge of the World, directed by Michael Powell in 1978.

John Laurie died aged 83 in the Chalfont and Gerrards Cross Hospital, Chalfont St Peter, from emphysema, he was cremated and his ashes were scattered at sea.

#scotland #scottish #actor #theatre #television #cinema #history #Dads army

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grandmaster-anne · 1 year

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Court Circular | 8th March 2023

Buckingham Palace

His Excellency the Hon Christopher Dawson was received by The King today upon his appointment as Governor of Western Australia. Mrs Dawson was also received by His Majesty. The King, Sovereign Head, the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem, this afternoon received Professor Mark Compton (Lord Prior). His Majesty held a Council at 4.15 p.m. There were present: the Rt Hon Penelope Mordaunt MP (Lord President), the Rt Hon Oliver Dowden MP (Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Secretary of State in the Cabinet Office), the Lord True (Lord Privy Seal and Leader of the House of Lords) and the Rt Hon Alister Jack MP (Secretary of State for Scotland). Mr Marcus Jones MP, Ms Kelly Tolhurst MP and Mr Craig Whittaker MP were sworn in as members of His Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Council. The Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP made affirmation as a member of His Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Council. At the Council The King approved the List of High Sheriffs for the Counties of England (other than Cornwall and those in the Duchy of Lancaster) and Wales. After the Council, the Rt Hon Oliver Dowden MP had an audience of His Majesty when The King approved the List of High Sheriffs for the Counties of the Duchy of Lancaster. Mr Richard Tilbrook was in attendance as Clerk of the Council. The Rt Hon Sir Clive Alderton (Principal Private Secretary to Their Majesties) and the Rt Hon Sir Edward Young (Joint Principal Private Secretary to His Majesty) were in attendance. The Rt Hon Penelope Mordaunt MP had an audience of The King before the Council. The Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP (Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury) later had an audience of His Majesty. The Queen Consort, Patron, Women of the World, this afternoon gave a Reception at Buckingham Palace to mark International Women’s Day. The Princess Royal, on behalf of The King, held an Investiture at Windsor Castle this morning. Her Royal Highness, on behalf of His Majesty, held an Investiture at Windsor Castle this afternoon.

Kensington Palace

The Princess of Wales, Colonel, Irish Guards, this morning visited 1st Battalion Irish Guards at Salisbury Plain Training Area, Wiltshire.

St James’s Palace

The Earl of Wessex, Chancellor, University of Bath, this evening held a Dinner. The Countess of Wessex, Patron, Disability Initiative, this morning held a Meeting. Her Royal Highness this afternoon attended a Rehearsal of Sandhurst Military Wives Choir at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, Camberley, Surrey

St James’s Palace

The Princess Royal, Patron, Opportunity International UK, this evening held a Reception at Windsor Castle.

Kensington Palace

The Duchess of Gloucester, Colonel-in-Chief, Royal Bermuda Regiment, this afternoon received the Governor of Bermuda (Her Excellency Ms Rena Lalgie).

#court circular #princess anne #princess royal #king charles iii #queen camilla #catherine princess of wales #earl of wessex #countess of wessex #duchess of gloucester #british royal family

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whencyclopedia · 2 years

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Robert Clive

Robert Clive (1725-1774), also known as 'Clive of India' and Baron Clive of Plassey, masterminded the expansion of the East India Company in India. Best known for his victory at Plassey in Bengal in 1757, Clive's reputation suffered in his own lifetime from charges of corruption and subsequently as one of the main architects of British imperialism in India.

The East India Company

Robert Clive was born into a country gentry family at the ancestral home of Styche Hall in Shropshire, England, on 29 September 1725. His father was Richard Clive and his mother Rebecca Gaskell. He studied at Merchant Taylor's school in London from 1737 and then accounting in a specialist school in Hemel Hempstead. At just 17, Clive joined the East India Company (EIC) as a humble 'writer' or clerk in December 1742. He arrived in India in 1744 after an unusually long 15-month voyage since his ship had run aground on the coast of Brazil. It was here in India that he would fulfil his ambiguous destiny as both champion of the British Empire and utterly ruthless colonialist. The historian S. Mansingh gives the following summary of Clive's character: "sturdy, violent, self-centred, emotional, generous, courageous, and brilliant in adversity" (101).

#RobertClive #India #EastIndiaCompany

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mixtapejunkie · 10 months

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Frank Morrison -Headcanon game

i. ⸻ general.

name. Frank Morrison

alias⁽es⁾.

gender. Male

age. 19 (34 if he hadn't been taken)

spoken language⁽s⁾. English, knows a little of other languages but not enough to be fluent really.

sexual preference. Pansexual

occupation⁽s⁾. Unwilling Killer

ii. ⸻ appearance.

eye color. Yellow

hair color. Dark brown, dyed blonde

height. 5'9''

major scars. Across his nose, and along the right side of his mouth

iii. ⸻ favorite.

color. blue

song. Iris - Goo Goo Dolls

food. Burgers

drink. Banana Milkshake (alcoholic is whiskey)

iv. ⸻ have they …

passed university. No

had sex. Yes

had sex in public. Yes

gotten pregnant/someone else pregnant. No. He's careful about that, at least.

kissed a boy. Yes

kissed a girl. Yes

gotten tattoos. Yes, throat tattoo.

piercings. Left ear pierced.

been in love. Yes

stayed up for more than 24 hours. Yes when squatting.

v. ⸻ are they …

a virgin. No

a cuddler. Yes

a kisser. Yes

scared easily. Of some of the larger, more brutal killers, absolutely.

jealous easily. Depends if it's one of his Legion or not.

trustworthy. You can trust him with anything.

dominant. Frank will take control if he needs to.

submissive. Absolutely a pillow princess to those who treat him right.

in love. Frank shares his heart willingly with others, and with a lot of people. The closest are Joey, Julie and Susie...but others wormed their way into his heart.

single.

vi. ⸻ random questions.

have they harmed themselves. no

thought of suicide. sometimes, wondering if he could bear to leave everyone behind.

attempted suicide. no

wanted to kill someone. only when the store clerk grabbed Julie. He was infuriated then.

have any fears. being abandoned. Being left alone and seeing everyone else happy and healthy.

vii. ⸻ family.

sibling⁽s⁾. foster siblings, too many to count. Left behind when Frank's temper got too terrible, and he was pulled out.

Adoptive parent⁽s⁾. Foster parent, Clive Andrews.

Adoptive significant other. -

pet⁽s⁾. Stray cats that he feeds and loves.

Tagged by: @facesofthefog

Tagging: You!

#headcanon memes #dbd verse #long post

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drcpanda12 · 1 month

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Robert Clive, a name synonymous with British India, was a man of immense accomplishment and equally significant controversy. This exploration of his life delves into his remarkable rise from a lowly East India Company clerk to a celebrated military leader who laid the foundation for British dominance in India. However, Clive's legacy is far from simple. We will examine the ethical complexities of his governorship, the challenges he faced upon his return to India, and the enduring debate surrounding his achievements and actions. Prepare to be introduced to a fascinating, complex, and ultimately tragic figure who forever altered the course of Indian history. Understanding Forgetfulness The Many Faces of Forgetfulness The truth is, forgetfulness isn't always a bad thing. In fact, it's a natural part of how our brains function. Here are a few types of forgetfulness that are considered normal: British Empire Builder: A Look at Robert Clive Robert Clive, a name etched in the annals of British colonial history in India, was a figure of immense accomplishment and equally significant controversy. This deep dive explores his life, from his unexpected rise to power to the complexities of his legacy. Clive's Early Ascendancy Clive's journey to becoming a pivotal figure in British India began rather unassumingly. In 1744, at the tender age of 18, he arrived in India as a lowly clerk for the East India Company (EIC), a powerful British trading entity. However, the 18th-century Indian subcontinent was a land of political turmoil, presenting both peril and unforeseen opportunities. The young Clive, with a keen strategic mind and a natural aptitude for military tactics, thrived in this environment. He rose swiftly through the ranks of the EIC's military, his battlefield prowess becoming increasingly evident. The defining moment of Clive's early career arrived in 1757 with the Battle of Plassey. The EIC forces, under Clive's masterful leadership, achieved a stunning victory against a numerically superior Indian army. This pivotal battle, though controversial in its tactics (which some historians allege involved exploiting internal conflicts within the Indian ranks), effectively laid the foundation for British dominance in Bengal, the wealthiest province in India. Clive's decisive triumph cemented his reputation as a brilliant military leader and earned him the sobriquet "Clive of India." Governor of Bengal Following his military success, Clive was appointed Governor of Bengal in 1757. This period marked a time of both immense achievement and ethically dubious practices. Undoubtedly, Clive's administration brought a measure of stability and prosperity to Bengal, significantly bolstering the EIC's coffers. He implemented reforms in tax collection and administration, but these often came at the expense of the local population. A key reform, the "dual system," placed tax collection rights in the hands of Indian intermediaries who answered to the EIC. While this streamlined revenue collection, it also opened doors for corruption and exploitation of the peasantry. Historians continue to debate the extent of Clive's personal involvement in these corrupt practices. Some allege his acceptance of gifts and excessive financial gains constituted blatant exploitation. Others argue that he was a product of his time, operating within a system inherently tilted towards profit maximization for the EIC. Regardless of the precise details, the exploitation undeniably occurred, leaving a stain on Clive's legacy. Understanding Forgetfulness The Many Faces of Forgetfulness The truth is, forgetfulness isn't always a bad thing. In fact, it's a natural part of how our brains function. Here are a few types of forgetfulness that are considered normal: Return to India After a period back in Britain, Clive returned to India in 1764 to quell a major uprising against the EIC's rule. He implemented reforms aimed at curbing corruption within the company's administration. These reforms, however, were met with resistance from vested interests within the EIC. Disillusioned and facing renewed criticism upon his return to Britain in 1767, Clive became embroiled in a bitter political battle surrounding the alleged exploitation in Bengal. Ultimately, though acquitted of formal charges of corruption, Clive's reputation remained tarnished. Haunted by personal struggles and public scrutiny, he tragically took his own life in 1774. A Legacy of Duality Robert Clive's story embodies the complexities of colonialism. He was a brilliant strategist who secured British dominance in India. However, his methods were often ruthless and exploitative, contributing to a system of economic hardship for many Indians. Clive's legacy remains a topic of debate, a reminder of the lasting impact of colonialism and the moral dilemmas inherent in empire building. Clerk to Conqueror Robert Clive's rise to power in India is a fascinating tale, one that transcends the simple narrative of a young clerk becoming a military conqueror. This section delves into the intricacies of his early career, exploring the opportunities, challenges, and transformations that shaped him into "Clive of India." The Stage for Clive's Ambition In 1744, when Clive arrived in India at the tender age of 18, the Mughal Empire, which had previously held significant sway over the subcontinent, was crumbling. This political fragmentation created a power vacuum, with regional kingdoms and European trading companies vying for dominance. The East India Company (EIC), Clive's employer, was one such player, constantly embroiled in skirmishes with its French counterpart. This environment of instability provided the perfect breeding ground for an ambitious young man with a keen eye for strategy. Clive's Unexpected Aptitude for War Initially employed as a lowly clerk, a position typically focused on administrative tasks, Clive found the work mundane. However, his natural inclination towards leadership and a thirst for adventure drew him towards the burgeoning military wing of the EIC. While he lacked formal military training, Clive possessed a natural aptitude for warfare. He displayed a keen understanding of military tactics, a talent for motivating troops, and a strategic mind that thrived in the chaos of battle. Clive's Early Military Victories Clive's first taste of military success came during the Carnatic Wars (1746-1763), a series of conflicts between the British and French East India Companies. The 1746 capture of Madras by the French forced Clive to briefly become a prisoner of war. However, his escape and subsequent bravery during the siege of Fort St. David in 1748 caught the eye of Major Stringer Lawrence, a prominent British military leader. Lawrence recognized Clive's potential and became his mentor, grooming him for a more prominent role. The turning point arrived in 1751, when Clive, with a small force, successfully defended Arcot, a strategically important city, against a much larger enemy force. This audacious victory, achieved through clever tactics and a calculated gamble, established Clive's reputation as a brilliant and daring military leader. The Battle of Plassey and its Aftermath Clive's defining moment came in 1757 with the Battle of Plassey. Here, his strategic brilliance was on full display. Through shrewd negotiations and a suspected betrayal within the ranks of the Indian army led by Siraj-ud-Daulah, Clive's smaller force emerged victorious. This pivotal battle, though marred by controversy surrounding the alleged manipulation of internal conflicts within the Indian side, effectively laid the foundation for British dominance in Bengal. The immense wealth of Bengal flowed into the EIC's coffers, and Clive, hailed as a hero, was showered with riches and honors. Understanding Forgetfulness The Many Faces of Forgetfulness The truth is, forgetfulness isn't always a bad thing. In fact, it's a natural part of how our brains function. Here are a few types of forgetfulness that are considered normal: Conclusion: From Humble Clerk to Architect of an Empire Robert Clive's journey from a lowly clerk to a celebrated military leader is a testament to his ambition, strategic acumen, and the opportunistic climate of 18th-century India. The Battle of Plassey marked a turning point, not just for Clive's career, but for the course of British colonialism in India. However, the seeds of future controversies surrounding exploitation and ethical ambiguity were also sown during this period. A Controversial Governor Robert Clive's tenure as Governor of Bengal (1757-1760) stands as a stark reminder of the exploitative nature of British colonialism in India. While his administration brought a degree of stability and economic prosperity, it was achieved through methods that caused immense hardship for the Bengali people. Let's delve deeper into the complexities of Clive's governorship. A Recipe for Exploitation One of Clive's key reforms, the "dual system," established a seemingly efficient method of tax collection. The system entrusted Indian intermediaries, known as zamindars, with the responsibility of collecting taxes from peasants and delivering the revenue to the EIC's treasury. In theory, this streamlined the process and reduced administrative costs for the company. However, the dual system proved disastrous in practice. The zamindars, eager to maximize their own profits, often resorted to extortionate practices on the peasantry. They demanded exorbitant taxes, often exceeding the pre-British levels, leaving farmers with little to sustain themselves. This exploitation, coupled with a series of natural disasters, led to a devastating famine in Bengal (1769-1770) that claimed millions of lives. While the extent of Clive's direct involvement in this exploitation remains debated, the system he implemented undeniably contributed to the tragedy. Personal Enrichment and the Question of Corruption Clive's own financial gains during his governorship further fueled controversy. He accepted substantial gifts and payments from Indian rulers and intermediaries, which many historians consider blatant corruption. Clive's defenders argue that these practices were commonplace at the time and essential for maintaining influence in the region. However, the sheer scale of his personal wealth – amassed in a relatively short period – raises serious questions about his ethical conduct. Weakening of Traditional Institutions The British intervention under Clive also disrupted traditional power structures in Bengal. The Mughal emperors, previously the dominant rulers, were relegated to mere puppets. The zamindars, initially local revenue collectors, were transformed into instruments of British control. This dismantling of existing political and economic systems further destabilized the region and contributed to the hardships faced by the Bengali people. A Legacy Tainted by Exploitation Robert Clive's governorship of Bengal marked a turning point in British dominance in India. However, this power was built on a foundation of exploitation and manipulation. The dual system, the acceptance of questionable payments, and the weakening of traditional institutions left a lasting scar on Bengal. Clive's legacy remains a complex one, forever intertwined with the harsh realities of colonialism. The Fall of Clive Robert Clive's story doesn't end with his controversial tenure as Governor of Bengal. He returned to India in 1764, facing a very different scenario from his initial rise to power. Let's explore this tumultuous period and how it cemented his complex legacy. A Return to Quell Rebellion By the early 1760s, the exploitative practices of the East India Company (EIC) had fueled widespread discontent in Bengal. This culminated in a major uprising led by Mir Qasim, a former Nawab (ruler) who had been deposed by Clive. The rebellion threatened British dominance in the region, prompting Clive's return as Governor and Commander-in-Chief of Bengal in 1764. Reforms and Resistance Recognizing the role of EIC corruption in the rebellion, Clive attempted to implement reforms. He aimed to curb the rampant abuse of power by company officials and establish stricter regulations on private trade. These reforms, however, met with fierce resistance from vested interests within the EIC. Many company officials, accustomed to enriching themselves through exploitation, saw Clive's reforms as a threat to their livelihood. Facing Public Scrutiny Back in Britain Clive's return to India was a far cry from his triumphant first governorship. He faced constant opposition from within the EIC and a growing public outcry in Britain. Newspapers and Parliament began to question his earlier methods in Bengal, particularly the accusations of personal enrichment. Clive, disillusioned and weary, returned to England in 1767. A Bitter Political Battle and a Tragic End Back in Britain, Clive faced a public inquiry into his conduct in Bengal. Though ultimately acquitted of formal charges of corruption, the inquiry further tarnished his reputation. Haunted by personal struggles, public scrutiny, and accusations of profiteering, Clive tragically took his own life in 1774. A Legacy Forever Debated Robert Clive's story remains a subject of intense debate. He is hailed as a brilliant military leader who secured British dominance in India. However, his methods were often ruthless and exploitative, contributing to a system that caused immense suffering for the Bengali people. Clive's legacy is a stark reminder of the complexities of colonialism, where ambition and achievement are intertwined with exploitation and moral ambiguity.

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thebrikbox · 6 months

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A Timeless Classic: A CHRISTMAS CAROL, by Charles Dickens

“Marley was dead, to begin with. There is no doubt whatever about that. The register of his burial was signed by the clergyman, the clerk, the undertaker, and the chief mourner. Scrooge signed it. And Scrooge’s name was good upon ‘Change for anything he chose to put his hand to. Old Marley was as dead as a doornail.”

Charles Dickens had the talent to create stories based on his own personal experiences. His novels captivated world wide readers and he earned praise for his epic storytelling. Some of his tales were adapted into cinema and I, personally, favor A CHRISTMAS CAROL and I religiously watch it once a week every holiday season.

There have been many versions of the holiday tale, with the first movie in 1901, to recently in Disney's in 2009 animated release. As a writer and a reader, it pains me to watch a film derived from novels because there have been too many directors that butcher a beautifully told tale that an author painstakingly created. I'm pleased that filmmakers didn't stray too far right or left from the literary masterpiece and alas, we were gifted a beautiful story to see and love.

I truly enjoy Disney’s animated movie, directed by Robert Zemeckis, starring Jim Carrey as Scrooge, the ghost of Christmas past, present, and future. I watched a behind the scenes video of how the movie was made with live actors, digital gear, and computers - talk about Disney magic. (I recommend that you find it on YouTube and watch it)

*DisneyStudios

The animated release received critical acclaim for the animation, and it received criticism for some scenes that were too gruesome and scary for younger audiences, but overall, the movie did fare decently well in theaters.

My favorite live action adaptation is 1984's release directed by Clive Donner, starring George C. Scott. The all-star cast performed exceptionally well, so much so, that you believed the actors were the characters themselves. This is a must-see movie if you haven't done so, yet.

*Getty Images

About the Movie

Scrooge is a greedy, wealthy old man filled with content towards all people, even his fellow wealthy peers. He owns a counting house with a business partner just as nasty as him, Jacob Marley, and together they are ruthless to their clients. The story begins with Scrooge confirming Bob’s death in a mortuary, but his story begins seven years, the anniversary of Jacob’s death.

Scrooge employs a good-hearted man, Bob Cratchit, paying him a very low wage. The sweet man pities his employer and tolerates his mean demeanor regardless of the ill treatment he receives, but also for a much desperately needed wage. Christmas is when Scrooge is grumpiest because he’s always hounded by solicitors asking for donations to feed the poor. The moment you meet Cratchit is on Christmas Eve, and you see how gentle of a man he is. The working condition isn’t great because the fire is low and the dear man wears his outerwear for little warmth. Two men later enter the business and asks Scrooge for donations to help the poor and they’re thrown out. Then Scrooge’s nephew, Fred, enters with an invitation to Christmas dinner, but he’s given hostility for being giddy and festive. In response to his uncle’s bitterness, Fred says:

“There are many things from which I might have derived good, by which I have not profited, I dare say,’ returned the nephew. ‘Christmas among the rest. But I am sure I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round—apart from the veneration due to its sacred name and origin, if anything belonging to it can be apart from that—as a good time; a kind, forgiving, charitable, pleasant time; the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow-passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys. And therefore, uncle, though it has never put a scrap of gold or silver in my pocket, I believe that it has done me good, and will do me good; and I say, God bless it!”

Fred leaves with high spirits and insists that Scrooge join him if he has a change of heart.

Later in the evening, Scrooge is spooked at his home when the face on his door knocker changes into the face of his old business partner, Marley. Once inside and settled in for the night, Marley’s ghost appears and warns Scrooge to change his ways or he’ll suffer the same fate of being a restless spirit suffering throughout eternity like he is. Scrooge defies his old friend. Marley tells Scrooge about three spirits that will visit him, the first one will appear after the bell tolls one, but he’s dismissed by the skeptical old man.

After the stroke of one, the ghost of Christmas past, Scrooge’s past, appears. It takes Scrooge back in time for him to witness how happy he once was. Scrooge sees events that he long forgot about and he refuses to see anymore memories because they were too heartbreaking, more so the one when he sees his fiancé, Belle, whom he lost because he loved his money more than her.

The next spirit of Christmas present appears and takes Scrooge to see his employee, Cratchit, and his family. The mean old employer didn’t realize how poor Cratchit was. Scrooge’s heart softens when he sees Tiny Tim, Bob’s ailing son. Scrooge hears sees Bob toast his employer for their meager feast, but Mrs. Cratchit says unkind words about Scrooge for being a cold-hearted man for overworking her beloved husband on a slave’s wage. Bob defends his employer and this moment softens Scrooge’s heart and he begins to exhibit sympathy. Scrooge is then taken to his nephew’s house and sees that he’s being ridiculed by everyone there. This hurts Scrooge because he didn’t expect to see his nephew and company to have a festive evening on his expense.

Later, the spirit of Christmas Yet To Come, or ghost of Christmas future, appears and it’s the most frightening spirit of the three. Scrooge is taken through time to see a Christmas that he wasn’t present in. However, Scrooge isn’t aware these events was about him… yet. Scrooge sees men discuss a wealthy’s man death and what happened to his money. Scrooge believes the man being spoken about is someone who is loathed and the spirit wants to show that the man could be himself if he doesn’t change. Scrooge is shown grief Cratchit suffers upon the passing of Tiny Tim. Afterwards, the spirit takes Scrooge to a graveyard to see his tombstone and this is when the bitter man realizes he witnessed what the future will be like after his death. This frightened Scrooge so much that he promises to change.

Dawn… Scrooge awakens in his room and is grateful that he’s been given a second chance. He becomes giddy. Scrooge sends a huge Christmas turkey to Cratchit, and he joins Fred for dinner, to his surprise. The next morning, he promotes Bob and promises to help his family with whatever they need. Good to his word, Scrooge’s life changed and he became a beloved man by all in his town.

Final Thoughts

If you haven't seen this holiday classic, I recommend that you watch it with an open mind and learn to appreciate it for what it is: a timeless masterpiece. There are many versions of A CHRISTMAS CAROL to see; select the one that calls to you, get cozy with snacks, and indulge yourself in a story from one of the greatest creators of all time, Charles Dickens.

Movie Grade: 0.0 to 4.0

Score: 4.0

#christmas #movie talk #movie review #movies #holiday #a christmas carol #christmas movies #holiday movies #ebenezer scrooge #movie theme #movie time #movie critic #review #happy holidays #merry christmas #merry xmas

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aberrant-webnovel · 6 months

Text

Chapter 11 - C-Ranker Newbie

Content Warning: Surgery mention

Chapter 11 - C-Ranker Newbie

I walked into the lobby of the Vault Breaker HQ with Silva following behind. We spent yesterday relaxing in leisure for the most part. Wanted to have a break and hang out. Today, our lives change forever.

"Let's ask about where we should be going to get started."

"Yeah."

I just kinda said the obvious and Silva followed right along with me. There were a few clerks always stationed here. General info and services Vault Breakers needed were what they handled.

One familiar face stood out. And it looked like she wasn't currently assisting anyone.

"Yo, Camille! Told you, I'd be back!"

"Oh, uh! Ymir. Right?"

For some reason, Camille seemed nervous. A couple other clerks were whispering to each other while I walked over to her with Silva.

"Yup! And this is Silva!"

"Hi."

Silva just nodded and said one word. Be more friendly, sis!

Oh, by the way. I decided to call Silva 'sis' now. Haven't said that aloud yet, but we'll get there.

"Good to see you both. How can I help you?"

"Oh! We need to go through orientations. Just checking in and seeing where we should go."

"Let's see here…."

Camille got a more composed look about her when she began typing away at a terminal embedded into her desk. Her eyes flicked around while she scanned the info on the screen.

"Silva Dirge. E-Rank. R&D Corps. Please report to Dr. Clive Earnest in Lab 6. I will see that a uniform is sent to have you try on. Good luck and stay strong, Silva."

"Thanks. See you both around, then."

Silva waved as she started walking off. I hope she has an easy time adjusting to her job. I'm sure she'll be in good hands with Dr. Clive. He seemed like a good guy when I met him on testing day.

"And since you're a bit of a special circumstance, I have specific orders to relay to you."

"Sure thing. Let's hear it."

"Ymir Sorenson. C-Rank. Runner Corps. Please report to Chief Harper's office on the top floor. You can take the elevator in the lobby to get there. It only goes up to her office and I've given your keycard access to operate it. Good luck and stay strong, Ymir."

"Gotta talk to the Chief on the first day, huh? Well I best get going. Thanks, Camille. See you later!"

"Yeah, uh. Til next time!"

I waved and turned to head off.

And off I went!

The elevator I needed was pretty obvious. There was only one in here. In the main building of HQ, the lobby was especially tall. It needed to fit the entrance with the huge statues. The Chief's office is above the lobby. Also in the main building is a cafeteria with free meals every day for Vault Breakers. The floors above the cafeteria are the dorms. HQ has a massive amount of space for Vault Hunters to live on site. Uncle Varun is apparently going to be moving in there at some point.

I walked over to the solid metal door of the elevator and swiped my keycard. The door slid to the side and allowed me to enter. Once inside, I saw a point to swipe my card again. Once I did, the doors closed and I lifted up.

This ride was maybe a half minute. Not too slow. Not too fast. The doors slid open when I arrived at the top. There was a hall here in front of me. Not to long.

I walked forward and admired the accents around me. A few portraits hung in sections of the wall. Each section is divided by a column design molding that went from the floor to the ceiling. There are twelves sections divided out. After I got halfway is when the portaits were at my side. They were portraits of the same heroes depicted in the entrance hall. Six of them.

I stared at the last two when I approached the end of the hall. To my left, Yorrick "Sarge" Bartman. On the right, Gajjet "Hellion" Dirge. Two of the biggest names. I would surpass them both.

Knock knock. I rapped the right side of the double doors twice with my knuckles and waited for an answer.

"Enter."

I pushed the double doors. The room before me was a large office with a circular perimeter. I took a few steps in and swung the door closed behind me. Then I stood at attention. Feet shoulder width apart. Hands folded behind my waist.

"Ymir Sorenson reporting!"

"At ease, nephew. I don't want you being formal with me in this meeting."

I laxed my position and held my arms at my side, slipping my hands into my pockets. Then I looked around. Two couches in the center of the room and a coffee table between them. Beyond that, a dark wooden desk. Behind the desk sat my Auntie Harper. In the right side of my vision, next to Harper's desk, stood Commander Vasquez and Dr. Eugene Atom. They were waiting silently and patiently.

"Please come closer. Stand before my desk."

I walked forward obediently and stopped a foot from the Chief's desk.

"Ymir Sorenson. C-Rank. Runner corps. And yet you're not augmented."

"Pretty sure you made that call, Auntie."

"Cheeky… I made that decision, but your body won't be able to handle what's to come. Not as it is."

"I figured."

So I wasn't strong enough for the Vaults. I knew that was the case. I couldn't avoid augments forever. It wasn't like I wanted to, but I wanted to uphold the wishes of my mother and sister. They wanted me to stay the same as long as I could.

"We have a good amount to discuss. First, I want to talk about the findings from Dr. Eugene Atom. If you would please share your result, doctor."

"Yes, Chief."

Eugene approached and handed me a file. I spread the envelope open and stared at the data in front of me. It wasn't immediately clear what everything meant, but I began to piece together information. Luckily, Eugene kept explaining.

"The stim I gave you the other was a standard preparation. Meant for repairing more topical damage, bones, and minor internal damage. The response in your recovery indicated a reaction from your body that I could only see as abnormal. After further study of your blood samples, we discovered a type of cell in your blood that was not identifiable. It is unique. With no previous data on this blood cell, I could only make guesses and try to experiment.

Through experimentation, your blood was discovered to have an enhanced compatibility with certain Vault tech. The stim you received actually improved a lot of your body. Obvious by the muscle growth. With a stim rated at the low grade it was, we'll have to develop a more appropriate stim for your body if we plan on giving you any standard medical assistance."

So my body was special in some way. I didn't quite take this into account when thinking of possibilities. I figured the stim being extra strength was the most likely reason for my body reacting strangely. Didn't know my body was responsible.

"I've blueprinted out the first physical body augments you'll need to perform as a Runner. Included is a system to regulate stim injections in the field. With adjustments made based on your reaction, we can provide you medical care in the field consistently without risk of adverse effects, especially while using a stim designed for your personal use. I've also begun to prepare a surgical stim that won't replicate the same type of healing, and rather will prevent the excess healing you normally receive for a time period necessary to perform the augmentation surgery. Afterwards, we'll have to rely on the installed stim package to heal your body."

So I would need a special device just to maintain proper application of the stims. It's a lot to wrap my head around, but I go the gist of it.

"I understand. Take care of me, doc."

"Good to hear. You'll be in good hands."

Eugene reached for the files that were handed to me. I had skimmed through them all over his explanation and pieced together the information in there. It was just a bunch of data that made what Eugene said seem way longer.

I handed back the files. Eugene took them and walked back to his position over by Commander Vasquez.

"Ymir, let me ask you a question."

"What's up, Chief?"

"Did my mother ever tell you how she got the name Hellion?"

"Nope. Just figured she was an unruly kid or something."

"You're not wrong. Gajjet Dirge was a child militant raised by a group that opposed the Vault Breakers."

"…"

I didn't respond. I had heard at different times about terrorists that operate in the Desert Sector. It was a problem for the Igneol Domain. Many civilians were at risk in the few times that attacks have occurred in the past. Luckily, it's been years since the last time.

"The group was taken out by Yorrick Bartman. All of them were killed, except one girl. He picked up Gajjet and dragged her back to Igneol. He raised her and trained her, but Gajjet had a bad reputation with everyone else all the same. She killed five C-Rankers without a single augment on her body while with the terrorist group. She was dubbed a Hellion. Gajjet was treated terribly by the civilians for her actions and terribly by our Vault Breakers for the same.

All the same, my mother rose above that with Sarge guiding her. When he was lost, she changed. Gajjet became someone who would never hold back her team or leave a Vault until she had conquered it. And she'd never witness a casualty again. Gajjet kept ever Vault Breaker safe that ever fought with her after Sarge's death."

"Nana Gajjet…"

I just muttered the name and lowered my head. I hadn't heard this story, but it was starting to explain her convictions.

"Ymir Sorenson. You stated that you wanted to be like the Hellion. A goal to surpass her, even. Can you find the resolve to match her feats? Can you find the resolve to keep your team alive and conquer ever challenge present to you?"

I snapped my body to attention. Chief Harper said not to be too formal, but I felt like I needed to be.

"Yes, Chief!"

"At ease."

I relaxed. She really didn't want me too worked up.

"You're nothing like Gajjet. You've never rebelled against the Domain. You never murdered. You never disobeyed what you knew you were supposed to do. You instead took her knowledge and used it. I need you to follow your own path. Don't walk in someone's footsteps."

"I intend to pave my own way, Chief. I'll surpass Gajjet entirely and uphold my oath while doing it."

"Good answer. Ymir, you're going to be put into a special team. You're going to fill the biggest shoes we have."

"You mean..?"

Commander Vasquez took a few steps toward me and stopped within arm reach. He rested his hand on my shoulder and smiled.

"Ymir, welcome to the G.I.A.N.T.S."

"Huh?"

"You'll become CODENAME GENERALIST. I'll introduce you to the team after this."

"Uh, sure! Yes, Commander."

So I'm joining the team of those ultra soldiers? I feel like I'm happy for this opportunity, but I'm still a newbie with no experience. How is this gonna work?

"But Chief, Commander. I'm curious how someone can be on an elite team like that without any experience. I've never been into a Vault before."

"Then we'll have to send you into some. Vaults that get cleared sometimes become training environments. I'll set up some simulated training runs with old Vaults."

Commander Vasquez grinned through his works as he spoke. Harper chuckled a little.

"I'll make you into the best soldier there's ever been, Ymir! Haha!"

A boisterous and wheezy laugh. I felt like Vasquez would be someone I could grow to rely on quite a bit. He's a nice guy.

"Then let's get down to the last matter, shall we?"

I watched Chief Harper stand up from her desk and walk around towards me. Commander Vasquez saw this and went back to where he stood before. Now it was just the Chief and I standing and staring at each other.

She hugged me. I'm kinda shocked. My Auntie Harper was never a hugger. I don't have a single clue what brought this on.

"Um, Auntie?"

"This might be the last time I can hug my nephew like this. Just a second longer."

"Yeah? Sure, then."

I didn't quite get it. But this was nice. I'll stay here and enjoy her hug.

"So, Ymir…"

She pulled away from me.

"I want to go over what's to come. You'll need to change your whole body to do this job. It's just fact that the human body cannot handle the job of a Vault Breaker without augments."

"So when do I have to go through with the operation?"

"Tonight. I'll have to go tell Del about this, but you won't be going home for about a week."

"Tonight? A week? That's nuts!"

"Silva is living there now, right? My brother told me about it. She can look after your mom. It's important that we get you augmented as soon as we can so that you can start to work and live as a Vault Breaker. If you're not resolved to get the operation tonight, then I'll have to rethink my decision I made during your testing."

So it's this serious, then? Sure, she's right about Silva being home for mom. But I'm still worried about them. I do a lot at home, after all. But most of all, there was one thing bothering me.

"I promised Silva that I'd stay more myself than machine. Is that possible?"

"Physically, no."

Right away, that promise was shattered.

"Your body will become mostly machine. That's true for most Runners. Other corps don't dive so deep into augmentation. As long as we don't go over your limit, then your mind will remain intact. I promise that you're always going to stay who you are. You're going to look a lot different on the inside, though."

"Tell Silva I'm sorry then. I'll just have to break that promise and become a Runner anyway."

"Then, Ymir. Go with Commander Vasquez to meet your team. Please report to the surgical labs by 19:00 hours. You're dismissed."

Chief Harper patted my shoulder and went back to her desk. Eugene sighed relief and went to stand by the office door. I guess we're all leaving together except the Chief. Once I started to head in the same direction, Commander Zasquez started to follow. The three of us went through the double doors and continued down to the end of the hall where the elevator remained still ready to be boarded.

We got back to the lobby and parted with Eugene. He had some more work to get back to, but would be present when I get my operation performed.

Time to head to the more eastern building. That's where the Medic corps and training facilities are located. We just weren't going where the Medic offices are located. Rather, we took a path upstairs and found a briefing room.

"Ymir. The ones inside this room are the best Vault Breakers I could find in the whole Domain. Don't let anyone try to intimidate you, okay?"

"I think I'll be alright, Commander."

"Good. Keep that frame of mind."

The Commander slid the door open to the room. It just fit right between some wall panels and slid to the left. Neat. We don't have doors like that in most place.

I followed as Vasquez pushed inside.

The center of the room had a long, ellipse-shaped table. Clear glass and a white enamel body to hold it. From where I entered, the table is to my right. Just a little to the left is a wall that has a large monitor taking up the majority of the space. There's a terminal actually built into a connecting wall on the other side of the room. Must be linked with the screen.

"Attention, G.I.A.N.T.S.!"

Vasquez had taken a commanding stance while I stood at his side. His words had called four individuals in the room to stand and snap to attention. All of their faces were familiar. Not all of them were friendly.

Hammer, Musa, and Zach are all in this room. I met them earlier. Hammer had an especially happy grin grow onto his face when I came into the room with the Commander. Musa and Zach were fairly stoic. The last face I recognized sent a rush of anxiety down my spine. The face of someone who has already shoved the barrel of a gun in my face. The face of someone who hates me.

"These are my team, Ymir. Let me introduce you. First, we have Hammer, CODENAME SECURITY. He'll keep you safe. Hammer has been on the team the longest so rely on him.

Next is Zach, CODENAME NETWORK. Matched augments through our whole squad are controlled by him and allow us to operate better as one unit.

Beep over there is CODENAME INFILTRATOR. You won't have too much to talk about, even if you can sign. He's quiet by nature, but that helps his job in getting through Vaults without ever being seen or heard."

Vasquez continue to name off my newest acquaintances. Then the fury of the woman subsided for just a small bit while she was being addressed. I guess the Commander has a bit of authority over her.

"Lastly, this is the Captain. You'll get her name directly from her. She gets really mad if someone else gives out her name. She's our CODENAME ASSAULT and a secondary leader for the team. She'll be in charge is dispatching aberrations. Nobody is better at it. And you know me as Commander Vasquez. I am CODENAME TRAPPER. I can disable and control Vault defenses. That's about it, though. Haha!"

CAPTAIN? She's the Captain? But she's so mean and volatile. Who would give a person like that any amount of authority!?

Auntie Harper, did you make this decision too? OVERTURN IT!

"Everyone, I'd like to introduce you to Ymir Sorenson. He's joining the G.I.A.N.T.S."

Oh shit, here it comes. I feel the burning rage growing and slowly overtaking everything. The Captain's face was becoming red and for some reason sweat was beading on her brow.

Careful, miss. You have very nice makeup. Don't smear it.

"Ymir will from today be called CODENAME GENERALIST. I'm sure you all understand Ymir's role in our team. Once we outfit him with the necessary augments, I'll have him train with you all both in and out of Vaults. This is an order to all of you: Make sure Ymir is capable of performing all your roles to the necessary extent. I've made sure that you all know what the GENERALIST is supposed to know. Ymir already has all the knowledge needed to fill this spot, but he lacks the skillset of a Vault Breaker. His training will begin in one week."

As Vasquez finished his words, the group all spoken in unison to respond.

"Yes, Commander! We will not fail!"

"Good! Dismissed until our next meeting."

With that, Vasquez patted me on the shoulder and just exited the room. I looked over to the group I just joined and prepared for some wild welcome.

I was surprised when the Captain started walking towards me with a crazy fast speed. Instead of confronting me, she turned and left the room.

I'm glad that I don't have to deal with that right now. I'll try to talk to her next time. I still don't even know how her name.

"Haha! Had no idea you were so awesome, Ymir! Who knew you were a brainiac with all that muscle on ya! Haha!"

Hammer sauntered over and slapped me on the back with each laugh he belted out. Those strikes hurt like hell. The second one almost sent me to the floor.

"Fuck! … Um, yeah. I studied Gajjet Dirge's notes every day. I've read reports on every Vault she conquered."

"No shit? Think we might be get some help with that stuff?"

"You're asking me for help, Hammer? Aren't you supposed to be training me?"

"I don't get all the data stuff about Vaults. I leave it to Zach to make it easy to understand, but I still don't get all the concepts he tries to relay to me."

"Sure. I'll tutor anyone on Vault layouts and aberrations if you need it. I just don't know what I can tell you that you wouldn't have experienced already.

"We'll have to figure that out! Haha!"

Another slap on the back. This time I stood my ground, but I know that I'm gonna have bruising show up later.

"So… Welcome, Ymir."

[Welcome.]

Zach and Musa walked up to me together and gave me a short welcome. The two left together and disappeared from my sight.

"I gotta get over to the engineering building to look at some weapons I'm having shipped in from Crytin. Wanna come take a look?"

"You're having them shipped in? If you paid for that, wasn't it outrageously expensive?"

"I did a big favor for Dr. Caliburn last time I went to the ice. Today, I'm getting a shipment to look at. Told me to pick one gun to keep and the rest can be sold by HQ. Cool, right?"

"How'd you manage that? Also, isn't it really hard to travel to Crytin? You talk about it like it's just a quick trip."

"Ain't been there in a decade. Haha! It sucks going there and it's too cold. I can't show my muscles!"

"What about the shipment coming in then? He took ten years to send it?"

"The weapons I'm looking at today are brand new models. They're not on the market yet. I cashed in a favor to get first pick. So, you wanna come get yourself a new gun?"

#horrror #scifi #thriller #novel #webnovel #original fiction #original story #original characters #original work #putting myself out there #reblogs are appreciated #minors dni

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