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multi-fandom-imagines8 · 2 days

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The Princess & the Spy

Warnings: angst, death

A/N: Hello everyone, I’m back! It’s been a couple of years. I wrote this at 3 a.m, so bare with me.

Summary: Y/n is the princess of Vallahan. Her father joins the king of Hybern during the war and Azriel is sent there to spy. He meets y/n and uses her for information. When she finds out, she’s angry, heartbroken and decides to join the war with her father.

Word count: 1.58K

In recent days, escalating tension caused by the inevitable war the king of Hybern planned against the mortal realm spread. The king of Vallahan was rumored to have aligned with Hybern. Despite the growing support for this alliance within Vallahan, princess Y/n remained against it. She actively tried to swat her father but to no avail. Reluctantly, she attended the war strategy meetings at her father’s behest, though she always sought a means to evade them. One night, as she slipped away from yet another meeting, she encountered a mysterious figure lurking in the shadows. As she moved closer, she was met with a handsome male, who was taken aback the minute she laid eyes on him.

“Are you new here? I have never seen you before” she inquired, her lips curving into a tentative smile.

“I- I am… kind of” the male stammered.

“I rarely have the opportunity to meet new people. I’m Y/n” she introduced herself, extending her hand.

“Your highness” he bowed respectfully “I’m Azriel”.

“I see you’ve heard of me. I had hoped otherwise” Y/n remarked, a tinge of disappointment in her tone.

“Of course, you are the princess of Vallahan. Why is it that you don’t want to be recognized?” Azriel inquired with genuine curiosity.

Y/n sighed softly “Because the moment people find out who I am, they start treating me with formality and- and distance”.

“I see” a gentle smile appeared on his face “May I ask a favor of you?”

“Depends”.

“If you keep our encounter a secret, I promise to return and engage with you on a more casual level” he offered.

“Alright. Your secret is safe with me” her eyes sparked with excitement, but little did she know that her trust just made Azriel’s mission a lot easier.

As days and weeks passed, Azriel would come and start a conversation with her , gradually coaxing Y/n to confide in him about the war discussions she detested attending. Unbeknownst to her, she began to harbor feelings for him, while Azriel, in turn, found himself unexpectedly drawn to her. However, their affection took a tragic turn one night when Y/n failed to appear at their customary location. Concerned for her well-being, Azriel , being a shadowsinger, inquired about her whereabouts and teleported to her chambers, only to find her in tears.

“Y/n?” He spoke softly.

“A-Az?” she was startled by his sudden presence.

“What’s wrong?” seeing tears in her eyes, made him feel something he didn’t wish to.

“How did you get in here?” She quickly wiped away her tears.

“That’s not important right now. Who hurt you?” He asked, stepping closer with concern.

“No one. It’s just… I am a fool. I thought that somehow my father would not join this war. Despite knowing his nature, I had little hope. I just- I don’t understand. I’m just tired and I don’t wish to talk about this today” she rubbed her face wearily.

“It’s alright. You are not a fool. You simply see the best in everyone” he hesitated before sitting at the corner of her bed.

“And look where that got me”.

Unsure if he should proceed, knowing that he’s also not as good as she thinks he, he decided to speak up “Y/n, there’s something I need to tell you”.

She turned to face him, curiosity all over her face “what is it?”.

“If I asked you to run away with me, would you?”.

She chuckled softly “You know I can’t. I have a responsibility towards my people”.

“But with the war looming, doesn’t that change things?” He hoped she’d agre, that she’d be out of harm’s way when the war started. When they had to fight her father, her people. He had hoped that he’d be able to protect her, to spare her, but deep down he knew. He knew that was not going to happen, especially since he’s been lying to her, manipulating and deceiving her all this time, she’d never accept once she found out the truth.

“There was a time when I wanted to run away, to go very far away and never look back. To be free, but I cannot, Az” she responded.

“Please” he pleaded.

“Why do I sense there’s something you’re not telling me? Why the sudden talk about leaving?” she moved closer, placing her hands atop his.

He took a deep breath before speaking again “because I’m leaving tonight. I’m returning home-“.

“Well, you can always come back” she interrupted.

“No, you don’t understand. My home is not here, it’s far away and I won’t be returning, at least not in the same manner” he clarified.

“Not in the same manner? Az, you’re not making any sense. If your home is far away, why were you here?” She withdrew her hands, but he held onto hers.

“I am sorry for what I am about to tell you and know that I truly am sorry for everything. It was not supposed to end like this. I initially came here to spy on your father and report back to my high lord. When you caught me and I realized who you are, I saw an opportunity and I took it. I know it was wrong, and I apologize. If I could take it all back, I would, but I can’t. I don’t expect you to forgive me, but you deserve the truth. When the war starts, we’ll find ourselves on opposite sides and I- I wanted to get you out of here. You’re not like th-“.

“Do not finish that sentence” she shook her head, trying to hold the tears from falling “I was a fool. I should’ve known. You- you… All this time I’ve been working for the enemy without knowing it, how am I supposed to face my people now? Get out! I never want to see you again” she declared, feeling something inside her fracture.

“Y/n, please. I-“.

“Leave. NOW! I don’t want to hear anything that comes out of your mouth. Leave before I call the guards” she shut her eyes, not knowing what she was hoping for: for him to stay or for him to do as she says and leave forever.

He was about to say something, but seeing how much pain he had caused her, he chose to comply. When she reopened her eyes, he had vanished, as though he had never been there. All the memories, the joy he had brought her, it was all a lie. Her heart broke into a million tiny little pieces that night. He left her the night she needed him the most. That night made her choice to join the war easier.

—-

On the battlefield she had hoped to encounter him. She didn’t know the extent of his power, she had only heard rumors about what he could do in the past two days. Yet, today, she decided she’s going to fight him. From a distance, she could spot two warriors that were distinct from the rest, and she knew one of them was Azriel. She fought her way to him and the minute she reached him, her heart sank. She still loved him, but she couldn’t back down now. She owed her people for what she had done. All that blood was on her hand. She gave him all the information he needed to attack and slaughter them. Even if she can’t defeat him, she’ll at least die with her people. As she reached him, he froze as his eyes met her. Azriel always knew what to do, but at the moment he was lost and he was afraid. She saw his hesitation and took that to her advantage and attacked him. He easily blocked her attack, but she kept swinging her sword at him. He kept in a defensive position, not wanting to hurt her by mistake, he has already done enough damage. Y/n was getting frustrated, trying harder and harder to land a blow on Azriel, determined to defeat him. He moved with precision, effortlessly blocking each blow she aimed at him, his movements a silent plea for her to stand down, but she would not yield, her determination fueled by rage and hurt. That rage was controlling her, blinding her, making her vulnerable. With a swift motion, Azriel disarmed her, his blade halting just short of her chest as he held her at bay “this doesn’t have to end this way” he urged, barely able to speak, his heart aching at the sight of what she had become. In that instant, she realized she could never defeat him or erase him from her heart. He had won twice, and she refused to let him win again. With that, she knew the only way out…she moved forward, letting the blade pierce her heart.

“NO!” Azriel screamed, retracting the blade immediately. Blood filled her lungs and covered her chest. As she began to fall, he caught her, his hands soaked with her blood “why would you do that?” He whispered, cradling her in his arms.

“It was the only way. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t stop loving you. I couldn’t let you win” she caressed his cheek.

“Stay with me” he pleaded, holding her tighter.

“It’s alright. I-I for-give-you” she uttered with her dying breath, her hand slipping from his face.

“I’m sorry” he repeated, bringing her lifeless body closer to his chest, his forehead resting against hers

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reaper2187 · 3 days

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Arlecchino x reader

In the tranquil abyss of the House of Hearth, where shadows danced and embers flickered, there lived a formidable duo, Arlecchino and you. Arlecchino, the enigmatic leader of her loyal children, carried an aura of authority that commanded respect. While you, her steadfast second in command, exuded a warm and nurturing presence that enveloped the young minds within the safe confines of their clandestine abode.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long, ominous shadows across the towering walls of the Snezhnayan palace, Arlecchino summoned you to her secluded sanctum. Her voice, soft yet firm, filled the dimly lit chamber. 'My most trusted confidante, I have a delicate matter that requires your attention.'

Stepping into her private chambers, you were greeted by the faint scent of parchment and the flickering glow of dying embers in the fireplace. Arlecchino sat at her desk, poring over a pile of documents with an intensity that hinted at the gravity of the task at hand.

'My children,' she began, her piercing gaze meeting yours, 'have been restless of late. Rumors of discontent have reached my ears, and I believe it is time for us to address their concerns.'

You nodded, understanding the weight of her words. 'I have noticed a subtle shift in their demeanor as well,' you replied. 'It is imperative that we act swiftly to quell any potential unrest.'

Together, you delved into the intricacies of your children's grievances, carefully analyzing each complaint and identifying the underlying reasons for their discontent. The children, you discovered, yearned for greater purpose and a more active role in shaping their own destinies.

Arlecchino listened intently, her keen mind absorbing every nuance of your analysis. 'Your insights are invaluable, my dear,' she said. 'Together, we shall devise a plan to address their concerns and reinvigorate their spirits.'

In the days that followed, you and Arlecchino worked tirelessly behind the scenes, crafting a strategy that would not only meet the needs of your children but would also strengthen the House of Hearth as a whole. You proposed a series of training exercises and missions that would challenge their abilities and foster their growth.

Arlecchino, with her unrivaled tactical prowess, refined your plan, ensuring that it would not only test their physical and mental limits but also instill in them a profound sense of accomplishment.

As the plan took shape, you couldn't help but marvel at the depth of Arlecchino's understanding of her children. She knew their strengths and weaknesses intimately, and her unwavering belief in their potential inspired you to strive for excellence in your own leadership role.

The day of the training exercises arrived, and the children of the House of Hearth assembled in the courtyard, their young hearts filled with a mixture of anticipation and trepidation. You and Arlecchino stood side by side, your presence a beacon of guidance and support.

As the exercises commenced, you watched with pride as your young charges tackled each obstacle with determination and resolve. Arlecchino's eagle-eyed gaze scanned the scene, her approval evident in her silent observation.

Through grueling trials and arduous challenges, the children pushed themselves to their limits, discovering hidden strengths and forging unbreakable bonds. The atmosphere crackled with a collective sense of accomplishment and newfound purpose.

As the final exercises came to an end, you and Arlecchino retired to the solitude of her sanctum. 'Our plan has been a resounding success,' she said, her voice tinged with quiet satisfaction.

'The children have risen to every challenge, proving their worth and unwavering loyalty,' you replied. 'Their spirits have been reignited, and their belief in our cause has been solidified.'

In that moment, you realized that your bond with Arlecchino had grown stronger than ever before. Together, you had not only guided the children of the House of Hearth to a path of growth and fulfillment but had also forged an unbreakable covenant of trust and respect.

As the embers in the fireplace danced and flickered, you turned to face her, your heart filled with gratitude and admiration. 'Arlecchino,' you whispered, 'I am eternally grateful for your unwavering leadership and the profound privilege of serving by your side.'

A faint glimmer appeared in her eyes, a rare hint of vulnerability breaking through her stoic facade. 'And I, my dear confidante,' she replied, 'am eternally indebted to your wisdom, empathy, and unwavering support.'

In the hushed stillness of the chamber, your gazes met, sparks of unspoken understanding passing between you. It was a moment of profound connection, a testament to the unbreakable bond that had formed between the enigmatic leader and her trusted second in command.

#lesbian #wlw #wlw post #genshin x reader #genshin women #arlecchino #arlecchino x reader

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pokemonshelterstories · 20 hours

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Hey, uhm I had a question?

Does your shelter have a fostering program? If it does how would one get approved for it?

we do! signing up depends on what kinds of pokemon you're okay with fostering.

for domesticated pokemon such as meowth, maschiff, or growlithe, one simply has to submit a foster application and meet for a quick foster interview. first-time fosters will also be given extra support as they get used to how fostering works.

for non-domesticated but non-hazardous pokemon such as starly, bounsweet, or shinx, you need to either pass a training course from one of the certified programs we use or have two paldean gym badges to show that you're capable of understanding the behaviors of pokemon that weren't bred specifically to interact with humans.

for potentially hazardous pokemon- that is, pokemon of certain types such as poison, pokemon with certain behavioral issues such as resource guarding, or pokemon with a base stat total exceeding 350- we require additional training or a total of at least four paldean gym badges

feel free to check out our website for more information on the application process!

#charlietalks #pkmn irl #pokemon irl #pokemon shelter life #pokemon adoption

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matan4il · 3 days

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do you think irans attack this past weekend was a test? a dip of the toe, if you will, to assess potential future plan viability?

can’t shake the thought unfortunately

Hi lovely, sorry it's taken me a moment to reply! I think you're justified in thinking this way, because when the top military experts all did not foresee Iran's unprecedented attack on Israel coming, we all have to take their threats very seriously.

That said, I personally find it hard to believe that Iran will make its "big move" before it has a nuclear weapon. Israel (supposedly) has nuclear weapons, and also has (again, supposedly) some of them loaded unto nuclear submarines. Why the submarines? Because those are hard to locate, which means that even if an enemy thinks they can somehow exterminate Israel with one decisive strike, they'll still pay the price of Israel's retaliation, launched from those submarines. And THAT is a serious deterrent. So if Iran wants to destroy Israel and live to tell the tale, it needs at the very least its own nuclear weapon, and a plan on how to stop Israel's nuclear submarines from striking back.

Iran is def not in a place where it thinks it can avoid Israel's retaliation (at least not yet). How do I know? Because of the money they invest in Hezbollah. More than any of the other terrorist organizations it funds, the Iranian regime arms, trains and prepares Hezbollah to be its main extension during an all out war with Israel. Hezbollah is believed to be at least ten times stronger than Hamas, at least in terms of manpower and number of rockets, and Iran was still reluctant to add its power to that of Hamas on Oct 7. They're reserving that terrorist organization and its power for the day they'll need it. The reluctance to use it during the current war tells me Iran is still not ready for the ultimate showdown with Israel. It's also supported by the fact that Iran was quick to announce after its attack on Israel, that they're done if Israel doesn't further attacks, and then the Iranian regime pretended like it couldn't determine who launched the (counter)strike on Isfahan, and also did all it could to hide the damage that we now know was caused to Iran's aerial defense systems, protecting its nuclear program...

Iran is not ready yet. Does that mean they're not learning from this little exchange of blows? They are. Just like Hamas used every time they fired rockets at Israel to study Iron Dome, and make their next attacks more efficient. But what did the Iranian regime learn? That even when it looks like Israel is more diplomatically isolated than ever, that doesn't mean that the world's leaders will stand by when unjustified aggression is launched at it. They DO understand that what Iran gets away with when it comes to Israel can come for their own countries next. That its air defense systems are still no match for Israel's attack capabilities, since the Iranians failed to even detect them coming in. That there is a coalition in place, which even includes identified and unidentified moderate Arab countries, back by western ones, and this constellation will be much harder to fight than Israel on its own, even with Iran's proxies. That 99% success at defending Israel means Iran is not even close to where it needs to be, if it wants to launch its ultimate attack.

We do have to be wary, and I'm sure the heads of Israel's security forces are. But I also think we still have time before Iran makes its "big move" to destroy Israel, because honestly, I do believe they know they won't get more than one shot. So... I have that's a bit of comfort. I'm not saying Iran won't attack, but I am saying I don't think we're there yet. And just like Iran can use this little exchange to study Israel, we can do the same right back. Remember, Israel has a laser defense system that's meant to go operational in the near future, and it's meant to be even better (in more than one way) than Iron Dome. So we have a few tricks up our sleeves, too... ;)

Sending you a big hug, I hope you're okay, and if you celebrate it, then have a happy Passover! xoxox

(for all of my updates and ask replies regarding Israel, click here)

#israel #antisemitism #israeli #israel news #israel under attack #israel under fire #terrorism #anti terrorism #hamas #antisemitic #antisemites #jews #jew #judaism #jumblr #frumblr #jewish #israelunderattack #iran

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wolven91 · 3 days

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Drifting - Part 10

“Ah! Casper my boy!” Exclaimed Zeet. It was the older engineer geckin who had been supporting the young man's progress as a brand new mech pilot. The blue geckin had been the one in the first instance to suggest to the young man that he give piloting a try and so far had been a stalwart ally and straight shooting voice of reason for Casper.

Despite the engineer’s enthusiasm, Zeet had never led Casper astray, nor had any of his machines failed the young man. The human felt he could trust this geckin, as far as his equipment went at the very least.

“Good morning Zeet, I understand it's the moment of truth?” Replied Casper, calmer than he expected. Qik stepped into the room not a single step behind the human and marched over to the correctly sized chairs. She pulled out the centre one and sat directly in front of the High Commander, the black and purple geckin in charge of the geckin people’s military actions.

She would be the one in control of the upcoming operation.

This was when Casper noticed that there was a small crowd of geckins already sitting on the other side of the broad table that dominated the room. With only two chairs on ‘his’ side, it was quite obvious where he was meant to sit. Casper couldn’t help but squint and narrow his eyes at the people arrayed in front of him. Wasn’t it a bit heavy handed? Zeet, Wren, the High Commander and a slew of other geckins that the man had yet to have met, at least as far as he was aware of. Were they all needed to brief the pair of mercenaries?

Zeet seemed undeterred.

“Indeed! The moment of truth! Oh, I can’t w-” Although the older alien couldn’t finish his sentence as a curt, sharp voice cut him off and he went silent instantly.

“Enough Zeet. Casper, why not sit with your… colleague?” Suggested the High Commander, not in the slightest giving him another option. Her tone was mocking, but he had no doubt she held little regard to either Qik or the pair of them.

Casper didn’t say anything, and instead calmly walked over to sit and join Qik at the table. She was perfectly still and a perfect picture of cold, calm and calculating. Casper kept his silence, and waited for someone else to speak.There was a pregnant moment of silence.

The High Commander was the first to break the pause and spoke in a haughty tone.

“As per your contract Qik, we have need to run an op on the same planet as before.” She explained, blinking slowly and looking down her short snout at the lopeljack mercenary. Qik was unphased.

“What’s the gig?” She asked without missing a beat.

“They’re amassing a sizable mechanised force in the former cities. Orbital operations are still at a stand still, neither of us want to have to report the loss of a ship.” The Commander explained, waving a hand dismissing the orbital fleets as if it were a non-issue.

“So you want us to cut them down?” Qik asked, fishing for details.

“Exactly.” The purple and black geckin replied without assisting. Her eyes blinking slowly again, she kept them focused on Qik, pointedly ignoring Casper. He made no attempt to insert himself, he trusted Qik implicitly. The lopel stared the geckin down for a moment before breaking her gaze and shrugging, leaning back into her chair.

“Seems straight forward, I would have thought you would have used us in something more valuable.” She mused aloud, interlocking her fingers and gazing lazily at the geckin. Casper’s eyes narrowed a fraction just as he noticed the scale below her right eye twitch. A tell?

“I am a geckin of my word. This is the first combat operation we need to deploy against. The choice is our own mechanised force, which is a cost and a risk, or we rid ourselves of the two drains upon our resources.” The aloof geckin explained, again, waving her hand in the air without her elbows leaving them table.

“Drains?” Casper asked, unable to bite his tongue in time. The geckin finally turned her attention to the human.

“With your contracts complete you will have no need to stay and we can invest in professionals that mind their business.” Replied the commander, obviously peeved at the pair of them.

The geckin turned her attention back to Qik, despite only being a foot tall, Casper was near certain he saw the mental image of a tank turret, slowly traversing as the High Commander turned and stared at Qik.

The lopel merely stared back.

“Make no mistake, we are not pleased with your interference with Casper and his training.” She explained curtly. Qik shrugged and pulled a uncaring face.

“I trained him how I would train any pilot, just as you’ve asked me to do for the last hundred you sent my way. He’s no different.” She defended calmly. Casper had no idea if that was true. Did she use all her trainees as body pillows?

He kept this thought to himself.

“And yet he’s the first to demand his own contract?” The High Commander demanded.

“Ask him yourself.” Qik offered, gesturing at Casper to her left. The young man tried not to have a heart attack.

“Well?” The High Commander inquired, staring a hole through the centre of Casper’s forehead. Casper swallowed and gathered his thoughts, not sure if he was ready to be put on the spot already. But the man had, had plenty of time to think and consider the matter. Clearing his throat, he offered his explanation, as honestly as he could.

“I’m not geckin ma’am. I would assume your pilots are quite loyal to your people?” He asked slowly.

“Every one of them.” She replied without hesitation.

“I am grateful for your help, but I’m not geckin. There was no plan for me to stay long term. You got me dropped into your lap. This was just an accident, you couldn’t have expected me to stay?” Casper asked, trying to appeal to her common sense. A human to babysit wasn’t exactly a boon to anyone, let alone a government or private organisation that would apparently need to prove he was happy on a regular basis?

Casper wasn’t expecting the cold, sharp, humourless grin to spread across her face.

“Hmph, quite the contrary. We fought for a sizable number of humans to be provided to the geckin territories.” She explained, almost off handedly. It hadn’t been what Casper had expected her to say in slightest. He frowned, outright confused.

“What, why? You don’t know us.” He demanded.

“Politics, as with everything.” She offered, waving her hand as she did.

“So not the kindness of your heart then?”

That got a snort of derision from the small creature. She leant forward and interlaced her fingers, resting her snout beneath her fingers while staring Casper directly in the eye as she spoke next.

Her words were low and intense. She believed every word she uttered with every fibre of her being. Casper was certain of that.

“You are not an idiot so don’t be naive. No. The geckin people are under attack by the cowardly ssypno and their gluttonous nobility. All the while, their queen sits idly while our freedom is crushed within their coils.” The High Commander explained, baring her teeth as she spoke.

“Our very existance is up for debate amongst the high tri-table and we will not merely sit by while the next hunt begins.” She pulled her arms apart, one hand slapping against the table while the other pointed at Casper to emphasise her point.

“Demanding our fair share to the human population that was being divided amongst the other races was a method of establishing our legitimacy to be sat at the table, as frustrating as it is to have to resort to such methods.” She explained, waving awake the unpleasant concept as if it bothered her like a fly.

Casper blinked, turning over this information in his head.

“Humans were… divided up amongst the other races?” He asked.

“Yes. Humans have captured the hearts and minds of every race across the stars. The general populace of every sentient race demand we ‘save’ you.” The geckin snorted. “I will be blunt as there is no harm in being honest at this point.”

She paused, but Casper gave her every ounce of his attention. This was not knowledge that was available to him. He needed to hear this. The High Commander locked eyes with the human and spoke with conviction.

“I do not care if your people die. But while you’re alive, you are the perfect tool for my people. A shield to aggression. No ssypno force, noble or royal, would *dare* attack a base, city or maybe even planet if there was a single human present.” The High Commander revealed, shocking Casper to his core. He felt his lips part, as if to retort, but no words came out.

“You’re the perfect shield.” She pointed out as if the sky was blue and water was wet.

Casper turned this concept over in his head as he considered this from every angle. He was staring at the wood grain of the table, but wasn’t seeing it.

Until he made the connection, and looked back up at her.

“But now I want off the planet.” He pointed out.

“So we will lose control of you and lose your protection.” She finished. Almost smug in that Casper had to have had this information explained. She was not talking as if she was in a poor position. Why? What was giving her this confidence?

“Why do I feel you have another card up your sleeve?” He asked.

“An odd saying, but yes, my tail has yet to fall off.” She retorted. She paused, and allowed Casper a time to stay there, in his ignorance. Qik also said nothing, but was still avidly watching her. The lopel eyes intense and serious.

Eventually, the geckin spoke again.

“I wonder… How will the many bleeding hearts of the galaxy feel ‘if’ or rather, ‘when’, the ssypno forces fire on a human?” The geckin tilted her head. “We will record and present every moment of your operation. Success or failure, we remove at least some of their forces from the board and weaken the ssypno’s desire to fight.”

The wicked grin returned as the High Commander leaned forward, pressing her fingertips and claws into the table, leaving curled wood at the end of new grooves in the priceless wood.

“The ssypno people will see their nobility attacking their precious humans and revolt. That… is the value you hold.” The High Commander concluded, grinning and licking her absent lips.

Casper had no retort, nothing he could say. He would be used regardless of his actions. Qik however, didn’t care. A job was a job and the sooner she and the human completed it, the sooner they could get to the other side the spiral.

“Fascinating as it is, can we finalise the contracts?” Qik asked disinterestedly, suspending her hand in the air as if offering a solution. The High Commander affixed a ‘smile’ across her features while the rest of the geckins remained perfectly impassive. Casper didn’t like it immediately and the hairs on the back of his neck all slowly raised on end.

The only exception to this and seemingly oblivious to the ongoing power players, was Zeet who immediately piped up and began to present his PDA, turning it briefly.

“Oh! Yes! I have some marvellous plans for you to-”

“Zeet. Shut.” The High Commander demanded. Zeet paused immediately, returning to his chair and hiding the screen from view. Qik narrowed her eyes, glancing from Zeet, back to the High Commander.

“Something you’re not telling us?” She asked, obviously sensing the same issue Casper was. The High Commander acted surprised and grinned again.

“Oh no. You will deploy as you have done in the past with your equipment.” She offered. Qik outright frowned and her voice dropped an octave.

“...What of Casper’s rig?” She demanded, deadly serious.

“Casper doesn’t own a rig.” The High Commander offered, seemingly confused as to why Qik would ask. .

“How do you expect him to fight?” The lopel asked, audibly speaking through clenched teeth.

“I suppose we could… supply a firearm, for free.” The purple and black striped geckin offered pleasantly, as if that was reasonable or acceptable.

Qik was on her feet in an instant, hands on the table, looming over the geckins as best she could.

“This will be a breach of contract, under the ‘unreasonable’ clauses!” She announced, pointing down at the table and punctuating her words. Casper merely sat back and let her work. The geckin merely shrugged, unphased by the lopel’s display.

“We would contest any claim, but we… being reasonable, are willing to offer an amendment to Casper’s contract.” The High Commander offered, leaning back and spreading her hands and arms out, as if a benevolent trader.

The room went still and the temperature dropped.

“What kind?” Qik asked in a calm, steady voice. Too calm. Too steady. She was on edge.

“We will provide a mech of high quality, free of charge until the completion of the operation and contract.” The geckin offered calmly. Everyone waited for the other shoe to drop.

“What for?” Casper asked. Qik glanced in his direction, but otherwise kept her eyes on the geckin, who was now pointedly ignoring the lopel.

“Hmmm, you’re certainly not a simple feral creature like some suggest. There will be a clause that is in our favour.” She admitted.

“What is it?” He asked. The High Commander leaned back and glanced to her left, Casper and Qik’s right. To Wren. The biologist who had been caring for Casper since the beginning. She hadn’t done a great job, but the young man couldn’t fault her attempts to ensure he was okay.

Wren spoke calmly in a practised manner. She seemed to recite her words from memory, rather than form them on the fly.

“In the event of the need to eject the pilot casket, the operation is declared over and the loaned mech and all its contents and components are the property of the XixTech organisation.” The green geckin concluded before sitting back down and going silent. She too, adopted a haughty expression, lifting her muzzle slightly and staring Casper down somewhat.

It honestly didn’t seem like much of an issue. It wasn’t his mech, he’d get his own rig later. Casper breathed in to dismiss and accept the terms, he had no want to take their property, but stopped when Qik’s hand grabbed his thigh.

He glanced over to her as she spoke without breaking eye contact with the High Commander.

“All components?” The lopel demanded.

“Quite.” A nod.

“No deal.”

Casper blinked, turning to Qik.

“What? I can’t fight on foot! I need that rig.” He demanded, thinking about fighting tanks on foot with a single rifle! Qik or no, he’d more likely fall and blow his own head off than destroy a damned tank!

Qik’s expression when she turned to him gave him pause however. Without waiting, she spoke and explained in a slow, clam voice. Devoid of emotion.

“Casper, the pilot in the casket, is included in this.”

Wait.

“If you need to eject, then XixTech will, literally, own you.” Qik concluded.

Wren cleared her through before speaking as everyone turned to her.

“More specifically, as their representative; I will own you.”

Casper frowned, seeing the green doctor in a new light.

“Why?” He asked, confused as to why she’d go this route. If she had asked for anything, he’d likely have just given it to her. She needn’t of gone this way.

“Ignoring that I don’t need to answer that, we can learn more from you.” She began, coolly. “From your connection to the machine to how you handle the load. I hasten to add, it need not be a bad life, you could work *with* me in researching this.”

Casper said nothing, she continued.

“Or I could put your brain in a jar and ask you questions where you are devoid of distractions like light or sound. I would reward cooperation with stimulation. Otherwise it would be a perfect void for you.”

The green geckin shrugged.

“Either way works for me.”

The lopel stood and swiped her hand through the air, dismissing the whole geckin side.

“No deal. My company is on their way, they will have several things to say about this coercion.” She warned before turning and breathing in to speak with Casper, but was cut off by the High Commander.

“So be it, but you’re not being asked here.” The purple and black geckin turned to the human and pointedly asked; “Casper? Your choice. Freedom, with the chance of failure, or stay here as our permanent resident. We will offer you opportunities to pilot mechs, albeit under our direct control.”

The High Commander turned back to the lopal, although still spoke to Casper.

“We have learnt from our mistakes with our dear Qik here.”

Qik raised her hand, her fingers splayed and brought her palm down in a vertical swipe, holding it in place as if to highlight her words.

“Casper, don’t. There's another way.”

The young man doubted it. The geckins were too sure, the contracts seemed too tight.

“Is there?” He asked.

“The company has lawyers, these idiots aren’t the first to try and strong arm a deal.” She offered. The geckin High Commander retorted again, with an almost gleeful tone.

“No, but we are the first with a human. We checked, your laws are fantastically logical and detailed. It even lists the species… unfortunate ‘human’ is not included.” The finished with a sharp grin.

“They’ve got us cornered.” Casper pointed out.

“No, theres another way.” Qik said, her eyes almost frantic as she mentally searched for an out, finding none.

“Qik.”

“No, just… give me a sec.”

“Qik do you trust in your training?” Casper asked quietly.

“What?” The lopel asked, glancing up at him. He was still sat in his chair as she stood over him. Her fur was beautiful and shiny. He didn’t want to cause her distress, but there wasnt a way out here.

“Do you trust in what you’ve taught me? Could I survive in a fight?” He asked pointedly.

Qik said nothing, searching his face for something. He smiled and shook his head.

“I’m not trying to trick you. Just honesty.” He pressed.

She grimaced and wore a tight smile.

“I’ve taught you all I can. Everything else comes from experience.” She explained, her shoulders sagging.

“Like fighting technicals?” He suggested. Qik frowned, then turned to the gathered board of geckins.

“If… Is it just technicals? By requirements, you need to tell me your intel now.”

One of the side geckins spoke, reviewing a datapad.

“Only scuttle tanks and stationary emplacements. We need those emplacements destroyed, but we do offer bonuses for every additional unit destroyed. The bigger the better.” He offered. His lighter tone a stark difference to the hard tones of the others.

“No enemy pilots?” Qik checked.

“The ssypno are still scrambling after you took out the former ace.” The High Commander offered. Qik turned back to Casper and sighed.

“I think… You got a good chance.”

Casper merely nodded then turned in his seat to directly address the High Commander.

“I’ll accept the contract if you give me a fighting chance. Give me a good mech and I’ll agree.”

“Deal.”

[r/WolvensStories]

[Ko-Fi]

#conservationverse #cuddleverse #human #hfy #haso #humans are space orcs #furry #human x furry #rabbit #lopeljack

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philosopher-blog · 2 days

Text

كل واحد منا يمتلك رأيه الخاص ووجهة نظره الفريدة التي تتأثر بالعديد من العوامل مثل التربية والثقافة والبيئة والتجارب الشخصية. هذه العوامل تشكل جزءًا أساسيًا من هويتنا وتؤثر على كيفية تصويرنا للأمور من حولنا.

عندما نتناقش كمجموعة حول موضوع معين، يمكن أن تتباين آراؤنا بشكل كبير بسبب تلك العوامل المختلفة التي تشكل رؤيتنا. ولكن هناك خطوات يمكن اتباعها لتحديد ما إذا كان رأيك صحيحًا أو لبناء رأي حيادي يقترب من الصحة:

1. **زيادة الوعي:** قم بزيادة الوعي بشأن الموضوع الذي تناقشه. ابحث عن مصادر متعددة واقرأ واستمع لآراء مختلفة.

2. **الاستماع الفعّال:** كن مستعدًا للاستماع إلى وجهات نظر الآخرين بفتح ذهنك وقلبك. فالاستماع الفعّال يمنحك فهمًا أفضل للموضوع.

3. **التحليل النقدي:** قم بتحليل الحقائق والأدلة المتاحة بحيادية. حاول فصل الحقائق عن الافتراضات والمعتقدات الشخصية.

4. **التفكير بشكل منطقي:** قم بوضع حجج مدروسة لدعم رأيك وتأكد من أنها مبنية على منطق وحقائق صحيحة.

5. **التفاوض والتواصل:** قم بالتفاوض والتواصل مع الآخرين بشكل بنّاء. ابحث عن نقاط التشابه وحاول التوصل لاتفاق مشترك إذا امكن.

6. **الاستشارة:** لا تتردد في استشارة خبراء أو أشخاص موثوقين عند الحاجة لمساعدتك في التفكير بشكل جيد.

تذكر دائمًا أن الصحة النسبية للرأي قد تختلف من شخص لآخر ولكل شخص وجهة نظره الخاصة. الهدف هو بناء رأي متوازن يستند إلى الحقائق والتحليل الشخصي والتفكير النقدي. قد تحتاج إلى وقت وجهد لتطوير قدرة تقييم الآراء بشكل أفضل، ولكن من خلال التدريب والتجربة، ستكون قادرًا على بناء رأي يعكس موقفك بشكل صحيح ويمكنك من التفاعل بفعالية مع الآخرين.

Each of us has our own opinion and unique point of view that is influenced by many factors such as upbringing, culture, environment and personal experiences. These factors form an essential part of our identity and influence how we perceive things around us.

When we discuss as a group about a particular topic, our opinions can vary greatly due to those different factors that shape our vision. But there are steps that can be followed to determine whether your opinion is correct or to build a neutral opinion that is close to correct:

1. **Raise Awareness:** Raise awareness of the topic you are discussing. Find multiple sources and read and listen to different opinions.

2. **Active Listening:** Be prepared to listen to others’ points of view by opening your mind and heart. Active listening gives you a better understanding of the topic.

3. **Critical Analysis:** Analyze the available facts and evidence impartially. Try to separate facts from personal assumptions and beliefs.

4. **Think logically:** Develop thoughtful arguments to support your opinion and make sure they are based on valid logic and facts.

5. **Negotiation and communication:** Negotiate and communicate with others constructively. Look for similarities and try to reach a common agreement if possible.

6. **Consultation:** Do not hesitate to consult experts or trusted people when needed to help you think well.

Always remember that the relative validity of an opinion may vary from person to person and everyone has their own point of view. The goal is to build a balanced opinion based on facts, personal analysis, and critical thinking. It may take time and effort to develop the ability to better evaluate opinions, but through practice and experience, you will be able to construct an opinion that correctly reflects your situation and enables you to interact effectively with others.

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