So, Frieza vs Kaos, a matchup I'm really vibing with and that has quickly become my favorite for both, so it's only right I make a script for it right? I think this is my longest script yet as there was a lot I wanted to include in here, even if a good chunk of it can be dumbed down to "lasers" if you wanna do that lol (it's dragon ball, whatcha expect?) Anyways, I hope you enjoy!
We begin with a shot of the Skylands. Floating isles, hidden amongst a wafting of mist and fog high in the sky. Each was themed towards the different elements that power the land, its inhabitants and its defenders, the mighty Skylanders, however there was one location in particular reserved for the most rotten of them all. On the Cloudbreak Islands lay the Kaos Fortress, where the dark lord Kaos himself resides. In this fortress, Kaos sat on his large, comfortable chair, a chair that was realistically far too large for him to sit on. Standing next to him was his loyal right hand, a demure and lanky goblin man named Glumshanks, who held for Kaos a large strawberry milkshake that the dark lord was eagerly drinking. However, Kaos' drink was cut short by a new arrival.
Floating down from the clouds above was a large, circular ship, made of high tech materials and construction. The flagship of the Frieza Force, reserved for their own Mighty Lord, Frieza himself. The hatch at the top of the ship opened up, and out from within floated up the white and purple tyrant himself. Clearing his throat as his tail casually swished around behind him, Frieza seemed as though he was preparing for some sort of business meeting with how casual he seemed. Although, his words were far from as disarming as his actions. "Haha, residents of the Skylands, it has come to my attention that you exist. I tried to tell your Master Eon to kneel but the old man was delusional enough to deny me. And so I, the Mighty Lord Frieza, grant you the honor of being the first graveyard amongst the Skylands!" He announced, casually raising his finger up to the air, a small burning orb of fiery light formed at the tip of his finger, swelling into the form of his deadly Supernova attack. It grew until it eclipsed the fortress below, before Frieza pointed down at the ground below, intending to detonate the island like he did to Planet Vegeta. However, before the Big Bang could hit the ground, a crackling aura of purple energy surrounded the attack. The aura held the attack back and forced it to shrink, shrinking it smaller and smaller until it was the size of a mere soccer ball before it transmuted into a confused, seemingly traumatized sheep.
Kaos stepped out onto his balcony, with Glumshanks placing a large stepping stool out on the edge for his Lord to use to heighten himself. Handing Kaos a megaphone, Glumshanks stepped back and plugged his ears, preparing for the ear shattering speech to follow. "FOOL! You believe you get to rule the Skylands?? The Skylands belongs to me! The bringer of ultimate mega DOOM! LORD KAOS! GLUMSHANKS, TELL HIM," Kaos holds the megaphone down to Glumshanks mouth, and the monotone goblin spoke into it. "sigh, yeah, yeah he's right."
Frieza chuckled, amused by the defiant buffoon, as more Frieza Force ships begin to descend from the clouds, launching pods filled with Saibamen onto the fortress. Manning the walls of the Kaos Fortress, trolls began to mount onto cannons and turrets to blast at the pods, blasting a few out of the air but missing a precious few, which landed on the ground and released their Saibamen. The Saibamen started blasting holes through the walls of the Fortress, flooding into it's inner walls to take it from the inside, only to find Cyclopes and Spell Punks meeting them within. "Send the Ginyu Force!" Frieza commanded, cackling to himself as he watched his forces battle Kaos' down below and, as he commanded, the Ginyu Force landed on the Island, with their theme song playing as expected. In response Kaos screeched, "DOOMLANDERS! Don't just stand there, bring them their doom!!" As he instructed as well, the Doomlanders met the Ginyu Force on the field of battle.
The two groups would fight for a brief while, however soon enough the Doomlanders would emerge victorious. Kaos began to cheer for his victory, only to see a comet of purple energy hurtle towards the ground, slamming in the middle of the Doomlanders. Standing in the middle of the crater left behind was Frieza, the strength of his landing alone vaporizing the Doomlanders with the alien tyrant giving negative shits about it. He pointed up to Kaos, and a bright beam of purple light blasted from his finger towards the short portal master. Kaos narrowly leapt out of the way, with the beam blasting into the top of the fortress and blasting a hole through it's roof.
As Kaos began descending, he used a spell to make himself float as he bared down on Frieza, flying towards him as he threw balls of blue fire at the white and purple alien. Frieza sidestepped and ducked around them, charging forward at Kaos with an attack prepared for him. When Kaos got close, Frieza whipped him with his tail and sent Kaos flying towards the ground, cratering the ground below him. "Oww! That was rude! Glumshanks, bring me a bandaid!" He yelled, with his minion somehow understanding him even from so far away. Frieza landed down in front of Kaos, kicking him to the side to send him even further away, *right when Glumshanks reached the area with a comically large first aid kit in his hands,** causing the man to sigh as he realized how much more he'd have to run. Frieza floated over to Kaos, chuckling to himself.* "Interesting, you're being beaten to death and your crying over a boo-boo? I find you so pathetic that I'm tempted to let you live," Frieza teased, lifting Kaos up out of the ground and blasting him up into the air, blasting upwards into the sky to trail behind him. He blasted more and more rapid fire purple lasers, but Kaos was not outdone. Kaos teleported out of the air and back down to the ground, leaving Frieza confused until he looked back down to the ground, seeing Kaos mount up onto his supercharger that he got out of a portal he summoned. Igniting his superchargers engine, Kaos launched up into the air, now being the one to chase Frieza through the sky, sadly just as Glumshanks reached him again causing the poor servant to be launched back by the rocket boosters, sending the first aid kit out of his hands.
Frieza now started flying away from Kaos, with Kaos flying after him and blasting his own purple lasers at Frieza in the shape of rings, waves, lines and zig-zags, throwing Frieza off his game and causing him to be pelted by lasers at every turn, all while Kaos monologued behind him. "Stupid fool! You run away from your doom? From Kaos? You'll only loose tired… GLUMSHANKS! WHERE IS MY BANDAID?!" After a while, Frieza started to wisen up to the patterns of Kaos' blasts and began to deftly dodge them, annoying Kaos. Summoning another portal, Kaos pulled out one of his artifacts, a powerful red and gold gauntlet. The Iron Fist of Arkus. "You have annoyed me for long enough, Freezer!" Kaos said, his voice deep and distorted into that of a robot. Frieza's flight was halted as his tail was grabbed by Kaos, now in the form of a massive, powerful Arkeyan robot, his eyes glowing bright blue. "Unhand me you idio-" Frieza yelled before his words were cut off, with Kaos swinging Frieza down onto a nearby mountain, pulverizing it with the force of the impact, leaving Frieza in a massive crater in the ground. However, Kaos was not done. Leaping up into the air with his massive robot form, Kaos landed a comically large peoples-elbow on his opponent who was currently many times smaller than him. Standing back up to his feet, Kaos stomped down onto the crater multiple times, smashing Frieza further and further into the ground, before pointing his head down to blast a powerful beam of light out of his eyes down into the crater. "That's…ENOUGH!" Frieza cried out, a powerful burst of golden light dispersing the laser of the Arkeyan Kaos immediately as Frieza flew up to Kaos' head, landing a powerful punch into Kaos' chin in his now-golden form. Kaos was launched up into the sky but by the time his large, robotic frame was done flying up, Frieza was already behind him and pointing his finger forward, blasting repeated blasts of ki into his back, severing the gauntlet off of Kaos' robotic hand and reverting him back to his base form, showering the ground below in craters formed by Frieza's ki blasts, the ground being covered in a layer of smoke.
"Fool…FOOL! You DARE power up? ONLY I GET TO POWER UP!" Kaos whined, his voice growing distorted once again as he spoke. The smoke dispersed around him to reveal him in his Traptanium form, floating with a lower half made of Traptanium crystal and dark purple skin. He flew up to Frieza, blasting beams of purple energy at him as the two began to engage in a ranged air-skirmish. The two eventually get taken to melee, with Frieza kicking Kaos to the side where Kaos smacks into the screen, breaking it for a few seconds as he flies back into the fight again (cuz Traptanium Kaos breaks the fourth wall.) When Kaos flies back though, Frieza blasts Kaos back down to the ground, now following him to the ground and slowly, dramatically walking towards him. "This sparring session is getting less and less entertaining you buffoon," Frieza said.
"Master Kaos, I have your bandaid," Glumshanks said, running up in-between Frieza and Kaos desperately panting for breath, bandages spilling out of it and flapping in the wind like loose toilet paper. "Want a large one or a short one?" Glumshanks asked. Frieza rolled his eyes and pointed at the tall goblin man, Death Beam'ing him through the chest and causing Glumshanks to die, just like how Frieza killed Paragus. "Such a tragedy," Frieza mocked, before looking back at Kaos. Kaos however was…still. He wasn't screaming, he wasn't whining, he was just…angry. Very angry, and Frieza could tell. “So much for that blundering buffoonery! I did wonder when you would stop whini-“ Crackling purple light emanated from Kaos as his body bulked up and grew, cutting off Frieza's words. His muscles bulged and hulked out, metal armor covered his body, and his hair and eyes burned a bright, crackling blue…something that sparked a memory in the sadistic tyrant Frieza.*
When the smoke clears fully, a familiar cackle, now deepened, can be heard as Kaos emerges in his Super State and begins charging a blast. "Your doom will be slow, Frieza!" Kaos threatened.
“That’s…that’s…” Frieza could barely force the words out of his mouth as a flash of memory crosses his mind…a memory of his second death, a familiar foe charging a similar blue blast.
“FRIEZAAAAA!!!!” Goku shouted in his memory
Cut back to reality, Frieza’s flashback distracting him long enough for him to take the blast in the gut, sending Frieza to the ground. As it dissolves…he begins fuming in rage.
“ANOTHER BLASTED!” Frieza punches the ground with each word. “STUPID!” Finally, rage overtakes him completely, in an ironic reference to the first transformation of the one who killed him in his cybernetic state, and he transforms into his Black form! “MONNNNKEEEEYYYYYY!!!!!!!!” A powerful purple aura enveloped Frieza, his skin turning black and his eyes burning bright red. The two where now in their highest forms, and the fight would truly commence.
The two battled against one another in the air and on the ground, blasting waves of energy at eachother in varying shapes and sizes. Kaos summoned his Doom Sharks, sending a wave of chomping energy sharks at Frieza who dispatched them quickly with a series of blasts. Frieza tried to land a flurry of punches on Kaos, but Kaos summoned his large, energy construct Doom Hands to grab the alien racist by the tail and smash him down on the floor, opening him up to more and more blasts of chaotic energy from Super Kaos. However, Frieza wasn't done yet.
"I have had enough of this charade! Kaos, your end is now, and it only makes me more annoyed that I won't be able to savor your quick demise!" Frieza cried out, flying up into the sky and raising a hand to the air, a large ball of purple energy forming above him as he prepared a large, powerful Death Ball. "Kaos doesn't know defeat, Frieza! But you, you will know DOOM!" *Kaos shouted back in his deepened voice, raising his large Doom Hands as he prepared to catch the Death Ball. Frieza launched the ball, a wave of energy erupting from it as it collided with the Doom Hands…

FRIEZA WIN

The Death Ball barely overpowers the Doom Hands, blasting through them and colliding into Kaos. Kaos screamed out in pain, using his magic to try and contain it like he did to the Supernova previously, but it was too much. The raw power of the Death Ball caused rocks and pebbles to rise up from the ground, orbiting it like a star, with the sheep-supernova from earlier swirling around alongside them. Eventually though, Kaos accepted his own doom, reverting to his base form as his body disintegrated, shouting his final lines. "YOU'RE STUPID!" He shouted, as if trying to get one last insult in to his opponent.
After Kaos was incinerated, Frieza floated down to the ground, his forms exhausting as he reverted to base, covered in bruises as he crossed his arms. "That's one island down…let's hope the rest have less childish rulers," Frieza said, not realizing he was pouting like a petulant child.

KAOS WIN

Kaos's Doom Hands closed around the Death Ball, slowly compressing it and crushing it into nothingness. "T-thats not possible!" Frieza cried out, before the Doom Hands grabbed him by the tail. Frieza was slammed down onto the ground, where Kaos used his Doom Hands to repeatedly pummel into his face. He summoned his Psychic Shot blades to stab into Frieza's limbs, pinning him to the ground as his Doom Hands beat the tyrant for death. "This is for Glumshanks you fool!" Kaos cried out, "W-wait! No, stop! I am the mighty Lord Frieza-" Frieza begged before Kaos finished his assault, splattering Frieza's head against the ground. Kaos reverted to his base form, falling back to the ground as his tongue comically hung out of his mouth in exhaustion. "Victory…belongs…to Kaos…fool…" Kaos said, the final shot being of the supernova-sheep coming over and licking his face like the deer in Hulk vs Broly.

CONCLUSION:

Best for both imo, thank you for reading, I hope you enjoyed! Lemme know your thoughts in the comments below.

Apart from music, a very important factor for me is the microphone and sound quality to the person on the other side of the call.
I tend to make calls while doing random chores (doing dishes is noisy) or traveling in the train, walking on busy streets etc.
Any recommendations on which of the two has better microphones for calls? Or maybe a completely different set of earbuds? I have a pixel, which is why I thought of the pixel buds and I have used the liberty air 2 pro before and they were quite decent until they stopped working.
Appreciate any suggestions :)

It only took a moment. By the time Keyaruga opened his eyes… Or, well, what felt like an awakening, either way, he found himself in a realm of endless light. As dazzling as it might’ve looked, it never blinded the man… nor all of his companions, standing in this luminous wasteland.
“Girls! Girls, are you alright?!” The red-eyed lad dashed toward the four of them, trying to give them a warm hug, while the golden egg rested nearby.
“Uh-huh.” Setsuna happily accepted his embrace, and, being the first to reply, she wanted to share her experience, to tell everyone about everything she’d been through, but alas, only she alone could properly pass this trial by redeeming herself in the face of her fallen brethren. Sadly, everyone else was a lot less eager to drop their guard.
“Oh, look, I think that’s over.” Ellen noticed, addressing her sister, who still held her staff in preparation to break into that last remaining dome. But no, everything had come to an end… Now, they only needed to face Caladrius.
“I don’t think we’re ready. We… never could’ve received their forgiveness fairly…” The world-breaking sorceress lamented, slamming her staff into the floor, just so she wouldn’t collapse. Of course, the Hero of Healing came to her rescue, but she just forced herself to stand still. “T-thanks… But… I’m not the one, who needs you the most right now.” The elder princess spoke, pointing to Eve. She stood a few steps away from them, staring into the void.
“Fucking pigeon, I knew we shouldn’t have come here…” The fallen warlady uttered, looking at the queen-to-be, who seemed absolutely lost to the world. No tears had yet been spilled from her crimson eyes; no concerns to those around her were given either.
“How are you, Eve?” The man asked, trying to get closer to his companion, but she merely took a step away from him.
STAY AWAY FROM ME, MONSTER!!!
These words still resounded in his head, tormenting the lad more than any sort of torture could, and seeing Eve shying away from him, filled his heart with so much sorrow, that he barely held his breath still. He had to… Otherwise, he’d certainly cry.
“Eve…”
“It’s alright… I’ve met Yuel, Mero, and Naala… It’s alright, I’ve met… Naala, and… I’ve met… M… Mero…” When the girl finally opened her mouth, she started blabbering the same thing over and over again. Whatever she had to suffer through, it left a great scar in her mind… “M-mom… Dad… W-why?.. Why did you-?..” And finally, she broke. Tears started flowing from her painfully swollen eyes, and the girl finally collapsed on her knees. “Ugh… Uh… UA-A-A-A-A-A-A-A-A!!!” And just like that, a loud wail thundered around this quiet space of endless light, the substance that just formed a tunnel made of mystical illumination. A safe passage to the outside world, certainly.
But no, nobody would go anywhere just yet, not until Eve Reese calms down at least. All that the others could do was to wait. Wait and be there for her.
…
A warm sun, a breeze of wind, fresh air under a blue sky – one never misses those things, until they’re devoid of them entirely. Either way, now that the party left that accursed realm, they found themselves at the same valley from which Caladrius sent them on to the trial.
“…” They were silent, all of them, starting with Keyaruga, now carrying the gilded egg on his back again. He was still trying to get over what he saw. Even if Anna indeed forgave him, and had not just gone mad over what kind of ruthless beast her ward became, her words would never leave his mind.
“Easy now.” Setsuna spoke, supporting Eve, as she barely moved her legs. Ellen walked nearby, still unsure what she should do with Organ’s plea. Both she and her sister heard it, but neither could face the man with that. Not now, not when the hero, even though he remained calm and collected, somehow looked even worse than his broken queen.
Then…
“Caladrius.” The sorceress spoke, stopping before the massive ten-meter tall bird. Weirdly enough, the group only noticed her when they were just four meters away from her massive feathered body, her torso was covered with a golden cuirass, painted in purple, along with the beak-plate which served the harbinger of plague as a crown. All of them ultimately aligned their sights with her four eyes. The wisdom of ages was reflected there, but alas, it was overshadowed by what can only be called ultimate arrogance.
“There you are little ones.” The divine bird spoke, lowering her head just enough, so that humans wouldn’t have to look up all the time. Still, even that gesture wasn’t enough for Freia to drop her weapon.
“Et aperire caelum elementa multa…” The sorceress began chanting her ultimate spell. This time, she wouldn’t take any chances. After what she’d done to Eve, this creature had to die! Or else…
“Don’t… do this.” Well, that turn of event wouldn’t please the goddess. And such, the kokuyoku scion broke out from Setsuna’s embrace just to stand between the caster and her living idol.
“Have we passed?” Keyaruga, asked, standing besides the black-winged prodigy. After all, the further development would depend on their result on this test. Or, rather, how the host reacts.
“You sure did. Your methods were… unorthodox, to say the least.” Caladrius replied, giving each of the party a deep scrutinizing look. Her doubled eyes were fixated on Keyaruga, especially. “You, shapeshifted children, I sense a great darkness in you three. And yet, none of you should fear me anymore.” She said with that middle-aged womanly voice of hers, urging Freia to lower her staff already. “No matter, you merely had to prove to me your endurance, erudition, and the power of your will to become worthy of my grace. I care little for how exactly you survived under my plague, and what you said to placate those who came for you. I am actually rather delighted to see such a contrarian attitude with which you passed my test.”
“You fucking should be!” Ellen snarled, ragingly pressing her finger against the shielded beak. “Your trials were impassable for everyone besides us! You knew that! You knew nobody could beat them without wrecking your little salty mumbo-jumbo!” The girl accused the bird, as if she was just some ungracious host, and not one of the mightiest entities in all the continent of Enoa.
“It’s true! Without my power, we’d starve in your city!” The magician added, pushing her sister behind her back. “How many of Evy’s people had to die because of you? You… You know a demon can’t be a hero, like me!”
“They can, we just cannot risk them falling under the control of something...malevolent.” Caladrius argued with a deliberately ambiguous comment. “To reach the heart of my domain, all you had to do was to calculate the logic in the fractal sequence of…”
“Bullshit! There were no fractals! No building was like the rest, so either you’re spitting lies here, or just think none of us knows math!” The little genius interrupted the explanation with another one of her bitter comments. “Oh, let me guess-!..”
“Enough.” The younger princess was then silenced by Setsuna, who covered her mouth with her hand – a radical move, to say the least, but not entirely out of place, when dealing with an overwhelmingly powerful creature.
“Hmm, I like your tenacity, Norn Clatalissa Jioral, but you only saw my domain from the outside.” The harbinger of plague notified her, but rather then proceeding further with the matter of the bratty general challenging her, she turned her head toward Eve, who stood next to Keyaruga. “It has been a long time, since we saw each other, Me-ua. I am glad to see this new consort of yours is much more respectful toward you. Yet somehow, he is even more depraved than the last one.” And just like that, the deity revealed her insight of the first world, Eve’s close alliance with Keyaruga, and how fortunate she was to have him around instead of Cornar. But that wasn’t the most intriguing part of this.
“I know. It’s… been two years since last met.” It was the reply that the verdant woman gave her, that brought to light a terrifically curious fact.
“Eve… you too?” Keyaruga murmured, realizing, that he now had one more dreamer alongside him. The man exhaled in comprehension, his ‘sister’ slammed her palm against her own forehead, Setsuna spotted a new soul to provide emotional care to, and Freia just couldn’t help but… Well, her feelings about this new revelation were mixed at best. She did want to find out what she’d done ‘back’ then, but at the same time, in doing so, she would certainly discover a lot more cruelties done by her hand; especially those directed at Keyaru.
“I need strength. Bless me, Caladrius. And… age me. I can’t remain a child now.” Eve all but demanded. Somehow, she wasn’t just a fearful kid anymore. This time, the Me-ua kahul radiated dignity, she even spoke with the deity as an equal.
“Very well, little queen. You were never undeserving of my grace.” And with that said, Caladrius carefully touched Eve’s forehead with her beak. Upon doing so, a whirlwind of energy, a flux of white and purple, picked up the girl, and enveloped her completely. Looking at it felt so familiar for Keyaruga. After all, this power destroyed and created, ruined one to shape another. All the clothes Eve had been wearing were torn apart, reduced to primal particles, her skin was scourged, and then replaced with one of a tanned tone, the girl’s hair was bleached, and above it – a crown of two pointy horns grew right from her skull. This wasn’t just a girl now – this was a woman, clad in a dress of red and black, the decorative pauldrons of which, as well as golden bracelets, defied the power of gravity itself. This… was how Keyaru met the Me-ua in the first world.
And what had changed in her stat-wise? Well, nothing – that same fifty-fourth level, with which Eve entered the trial, no change in potential, nor any other graph. Except for one…
Level cap: ∞
“Congratulations, Eve. You’re a hero now.” The red-eyed lad praised his companion. In just a moment, she aged by four years. Her face was still young and pretty, her height got only slightly longer, but the proportions made the whole difference. Hips and breasts – they got some improvements, which the healer would never miss.
“I suppose this settles our deal. With this, you can summon me again.” The harbinger of sickly doom graciously spoke to her chosen one. Unlike other gods, she couldn’t just change a person’s entire class. A full-fledged hero didn’t only have the potential for infinite growth, but also provided a bonus of doubled experience for them and their party, the trait that Eve lacked. Still, Caladrius giving her champion an unlimited level cap was a game-changer nonetheless. Nevertheless, there was one more thing to ponder… “Although… you already know the price for my assistance.”
“Of fucking course! You’ll kill her for that, you monster!” Ellen raged, stomping her little foot against the rocky ground, while her sister braced for whatever consequences her sibling’s brutal honesty might cause.
“Forgive her, Caladrius. She’s just… too worried about me.” The lady in red spoke kindly, patting the god’s golden beak.
“Hmm. That is, indeed, relatable. Still, how precious it is to see your former enemies now have become your allies. Is that your accomplishment, little man?” The white bird asked of the hero. Did she try to offend him? Not so much, really. To her, even a draconid of a baffling two and a half meters tall would still be ‘small’. That didn’t make it less insulting, though.
“Yes. Why?” Keyaruga growled, facing two pairs of eyes, with which Caladrius gazed into him, right to his very soul. The healer had a similar power, but being read himself filled him with at least cautiousness toward the deity.
Flare – she was the one, who brought so much pain to Eve’s heart, she scourged thousands, and even if they were revived by Keyaru’s redo, the queen’s memories still held this agony.
Norn – this one lead armies against Tenanulic, her vile strategies were never burdened by human decency or a warrior’s concept of honor. Scourged earth, poisoned wells, hand-crafted epidemics, bribery, and genocide – this little girl was responsible for so many atrocities, that she had broken her own spirit by committing them.
And, finally, Keyaru. The Hero of Healing, who was there to land the last strike on the demon queen. Only Setsuna was completely innocent, just because she’d die from the disease caused by a monster’s rotting corpse, if not for this enigmatic man.
“Eve Reese – it is your call now. What should I do with them?” And so, the white-haired lady was given a choice. Right now, Caladrius could unleash all of her power without asking for anything in return. Even if she herself suffered from fatigue after conducting all those trials, the harbinger of plague could still easily bury her enemies under a pile of toxic ash. Still, it wasn’t for her to choose now.
“Oh well, now we’re screwed.” Ellen chuckled, shaking her head. Freia and Setsuna assumed a battle stance, and even Keyaruga gave the girl a dark glare.
I’m sorry, birdie. But if you endanger my girls, I… You’ll have to see me as I truly am.
The deep silence loomed above them all. One word, one single word could decide the party’s fate. To Caladrius, not only were they outsiders, but also the enemies of her champion as well. No matter if their crimes were mostly erased, she just didn’t really trust them.
But she trusted Eve.
“Bless them, like you’ve blessed me.” The Me-ua kahul asked, smiling toward her friends and the man she loved. The woman absolutely comprehended the power she was given, and yet, there were things, people, little kindnesses, that she could never forget. Not after they helped her to break free from the chains placed upon her in the first world.
“Evy…” Freia muttered with obvious relief. She glanced at Keyaruga, and he looked as stoic as he did most of the time. Did he learn that from Setsuna? After all, she too merely lowered her arms.
“He-he-he-he-heh…” Only one of them nervously chuckled. The crimson-haired princess just wanted this excruciating day to end at last, even if it barely began.
“Oh my! That is quite bold of you to ask.” Caladrius pronounced somewhat mockingly. After all, she was never obliged to reward humans (including demi-humans) just for surviving her challenges.
“Do you refuse?” Eve inquired accusingly. It made the others wonder, what kind of power she really had over the full-fledged god.
“I never said so. It is… different with them. My power is contagious, and only the ancient pact with your tribe allows you to safely enjoy my grace.” The toxic deity explained, now looking at the party with a deep thoughtfulness in her doubled eyes. “We can figure something out.” She added, drawing her beak near the brooding man. “Hmm, you are quite the curious individual, a human, yet, at the same time, something very different.”
“How should I take this ‘compliment’?” The hero wondered, trying to figure out if he was being accused of the many atrocities he committed during his test, or the sheer turmoil that was his sense of morals.
“Take it as your three hearts would please.” Fortunately, though, the feathered doom simply brushed it off by hinting at his modified biology. After all, now that he was under the protection of Eve, there was only one question to answer. “Will you accept my gift?” Caladrius inquired, cautiously watching the lad’s reaction. He wasn’t all that sure than he needed anything else to be complete. Not when he was almost immortal.
“Please, Keyaruga…” And, yet again, the black-winged prodigy asked him, placing her hand on his shoulder. She would never do something like that previously – the little girl was no more, she had changed forever. But, that didn’t dissuade the healer from liking and trusting her, so…
“Alright. I suppose, it can’t get much worse.” The man just shrugged, accepting whatever he could be granted. The lad wouldn’t drop his guard, though. After all, if anything happens to him, it was quite doubtful that Freia could handle this beast on her own.
“Very well.” Aware of this distrust, Caladrius once again placed her beak onto another’s head. Keyaruga didn’t receive a fancy transformation; instead, his left eye got embraced by a gentle purple light. It only stung for a moment, but when it ended, a whole new perspective opened before the hero. Something… intrinsically transcendental.
“Did you just replace… my eye?” The lad asked, trying to figure out what was going on. Barely anything changed… except for the fact that now he saw his own movements from two seconds afar. He was seeing the future…
“Indeed. You are not a stranger to our divine might, so you can handle it.” Caladrius admonished, standing in her full height, just to stretch her neck, as it seemed.
“Is that your power?” Keyaruga wondered, suppressing his left eye. Fortunately, he had plenty of experience with the gift of the star nymph, so it only took him a few seconds to figure out how it worked. That was absolutely necessary; not only did this power drain a whole lot of mana, it also required some time to get used to.
“Mine? Of course not! This gift was born of sacrifice. One feisty demigod gave me his power to me in order to enter my trials. I merely improved upon it.” The harbinger of plague spoke proudly, giving a brief glance toward Ellen.
“That idiot…” The girl snarled, making a sour face. “What? It was Organ! He saved me! Now you have his eye, brother, or… whatever this purple cross on your pupil is.” The fallen warlady revealed, glancing toward the Hero of Magic as well as the rest of the group. After all, if Hawkeye wasn’t there, Freia would only have found her mauled corpse.
“Then, the egg.” Caladrius continued, now tapping her beak against the egg. And just like that, she poured quite a lot of her mana into it, but, just like previously, it consumed everything the bird offered. “You carry a powerful being on your back, little man.”
“Stronger than you?” He wondered somewhat mockingly.
“Indeed.” But the feathered doom wasn’t about to joke about that particular matter. “I owe her a lot, so this is the least I can do.” The god of sickness and rejuvenation spoke with a trace of adoration and… regret. Maybe, that is the true power? To raise others, when you can, so that they may assist you in the time of your greatest need?
“I don’t need anything!” Freia exclaimed when the doubled eyes of Caladrius were now aimed at her. “I just need an answer! Tell me, what’s with my mother?! Is she alive? Can we help her?!” The sorceress asked bravely, her legs were shaky, partly because of the fatigue, partly – the fear of facing the mighty god. Nonetheless, it’s easy to be daring when nothing can oppose you. A standoff against the powerful being is completely different matter.
“Ah, Reeharoze Thalio Jioral! She… is neither dead, nor alive.” The divine dove replied cautiously. This topic lead to many limitations, sealed by numerous and tremendously powerful curses for each deity, who might reveal them.
“Damn! I knew it!” The sorceress snarled, loudly clacking with her teeth. She and Setsuna both tensed, having already faced whatever monstrosity the king turned Buck Tarwill into.
“The best thing you can do for her is to end her suffering in this world.” Caladrius spoke dismissively, lacking any empathy toward some distant mortal, defiled by the power that is the void itself.
“Go kill yourself, if you think it’s merciful!” Ellen snarled, spitting in the direction of the deity. She wouldn’t have anyone defile her mother’s memory, even a god, even if it literally disintegrated her saliva right in the fly.
“Calm down.” Fortunately, though, Setsuna was right there to help the younger princess. She stood between the two of them, but instead of doing anything aggressive, the gray-haired girl just hugged her crimson-haired lover, and guarded her from the harbinger of plague with her spine.
“How can we help her?!” Keyaruga then asked, trying to be a beacon of logic and reason among all of these tormented souls. Eve stood near; she carefully monitored the lad’s movements, reactions, his gestures, and overall attitude.
“You cannot. At least not right now.” Caladrius coldly responded, shifting her heavy gaze toward the man; to be specific – the burden on his back. “But this one – if she desires so, then you might have some hope.” The bird explained briefly. Obviously, nobody among the party was satisfied with the answer.
“We must help them. Please, you must help us!” Even the white-haired queen-to-be spoke up. She already lost her parents twice, and now in assisting Freia and Ellen she saw a chance to ease her own pain.
“I am afraid, my vows prevent me from revealing to you the whole truth, but rest assured, you will find your answer soon enough.” The harbinger of plague and convalescence reassured all of them. Was it a godly prediction of the future? Or something else entirely?
“Then… Then I!..” Freia shook, trying to comprehend this revelation. She now looked at the egg with reverence and craving. She saw nothing but a tool in it, and that didn’t escape Setsuna’s aquamarine eyes.
“Not so fast. It’s Keyaruga’s child (and ours). Don’t put all your hopes on her just yet.” The huntress admonished, still holding Ellen, as she slowly recovered her emotional stability. The ice warrior was trying to save her prodigy from the burden of other’s expectations, but that affected the pink-haired magician only so much.
“Wise words, child of the forest. But just like your claws, they lack penetrative power.” Caladrius stated, and just as she said so, a multitude of small fireflies emerged around the girl. Or, rather, they became visible. These sparks were always there, the spirits of ice, fueling the she-wolf’s magic. Now they gathered around the divine bird’s head, forming something of a halo. They didn’t stay for too long, though, but when they left Caladrius’ side, their gray shine, now infused with the might of the god, now became much brighter, much… colder. “I am afraid; I cannot do much more for your sake, little one.” And with that done, there was only one person, who still remained to be given anything. “Now…”
“Don’t you even dare, you ugly pigeon! I don’t need your rotten power!” Ellen yelled, awkwardly falling out of Setsuna’s grasp. It wasn’t long before she rose up and once again pressed her finger against Caladrius’ gilded beak. At least, she was about to do so, when she pointed at the queen-to-be instead. “If you want to give me something – don’t! Just don’t! All I need from you is to not treat Eve like your glorified snack, okay?! Look, my sister is the Hero of Magic, she can basically do everything you do, but she doesn’t need to eat anyone to cast her spells! So how can you be so entitled to ask for her life?!” The younger princess snarled, as her emerald eyes rapidly shifted between Eve, Freia, Keyaruga, and the divine dove. The latter was taken aback by that passionate speech, unsure if she had to take grievous offence from belittling her might, or outright cackle from this observation. One problem, though – the former had lost her already fragile balance.
“Eve? Are you alright?” Keyaruga asked, catching the black-winged lady in his grip. She was pale, drained, fatigued – this wasn’t just physical weariness, though. The aftermath of the trial caught up with her, now reinforced by the reminder of how terrible a price she’d have to pay for Caladrius’ power.
“Yes…” Eve mumbled, trying to stand on her feet, but the man wouldn’t let her just yet.
“Hold onto me.” He said, trying to be the support for Eve at her lowest time.
“That is an interesting thing to hear from someone like you.” The feathered deity spoke to Ellen. Despite that entire scene, her account with the capricious genius wasn’t paid yet. “At first, you have got my curiosity. Now, you proved to be worthy of my power.” The harbinger of plague added, facing the younger princess now.
“Fuck you! I already said what I need from you, godling!” Still, the obstinate lady wasn’t there to grovel before the glorified dove. She already had a role to adhere to – Norn, Ellen, whatever she was called – was a strategist, a great mind capable of preserving massive amounts of knowledge just by quickly reading it once.
“Creators be merciful, you are a stubborn creature.” Caladrius amused. To her, watching the crimson-haired girl rant was like looking at a overly vocal pup – all bark, but no bite. Not because it wasn’t brave enough, though. Ellen just wasn’t gifted with a strong maw. And that was something Caladrius could help her with. “You are deserving of becoming my apostle!”
“Hah… W-what?” Keyaruga’s ‘sister’ got so dumbfounded, that her head just went round. It wasn’t a pleasant feeling, though, this dizziness made her nauseous.
“You will get exactly what you wish for, and even more, Norn Clatalissa Jioral! Heed me, Eve. I now grant you two chances to summon me without any harm for you!” The harbinger of disease and rejuvenation notified her mistress. It was still dwarfed, compared to what Flare had done, when paired with Gard the Windbreak, and still…
“I… But I don’t…” This little grace nearly pulled the rug out from under Eve’s feet. But again, Keyaruga was there to give her the necessary support.
“And you, princess in name, but no blood, shall be the vessel of my power!” Caladrius declared, turning her determined gaze onto Ellen. Her sister stood nearby, unsure what she should do with that. She knew Norn could be headstrong, at best, even when it came to the things that would benefit her personally. Just like when she refused the offer from her ‘brother’ to age her body to an adult form.
“Make it four usages for Eve, and leave me alone! I don’t need anyone’s pow-!.. Ah!” Right as she was about to start a new scandal with her big mouth, the younger princess rose in the sky, caught by a purple wind from underneath the deity’s giant wings.
“You do not know what is good for you, child!” The god of rot and restoration snarled, as if she was an arrogant petty parent.
“Ghhh!” Freia hissed, waving her staff to break Ellen out of Caladrius’ grip. She succeeded, and Ellen fell in the hands of the Hero of Magic… but it was already too late.
“Oh no… Oh no-no-no-no!” The younger princess frantically shook her head, as her muscles trembled with the newfound strength. It seems, she was no longer a useless child on a battlefield. One would think she’d be glad with this turn of events… But no. “K-Ke… Keya… Keyaruga-a-a! What’s she done to me?!” The girl yelled, reaching for her ‘brother’. He and his lady in red came closer to the girl.
“HOW DARE YOU?!” Freia screamed, accumulating whatever mana she could drain from this lifeless land, even trying to drain Caladrius of it. She proved unsuccessful, though.
“Freia, don’t.” Keyaruga ordered, painting his right eye in the jade hue. He was just about to see something truly majestic.
Race: Human
Name: Norn
Class: Apostle of Caladrius
Level: 52
Mana: 151/151
Physical attack: 42
Physical defense: 53
Magic attack: 67
Magic defense: 60
Speed: 75
Abilities:
The aspect of plague: 1st level
The aspect of revival: 1st level
Skills:
Boost to Mana regen: 1st level. The skill of the Apostle of Caladrius, boosts Mana regen by 5%
Mnemonics: acquired skill. Greatly improves mental capacity and remembering speed.
Grace of Caladrius: skill of the Apostle of Caladrius. Gives boost to the magic learning speed of Caladrius’ aspects by 2x
And also…
Level cap: 66
Potential:
Mana: 115
Physical attack: 32
Physical defense: 40
Magic attack: 51
Magic defense: 45
Speed: 57
Summary: 342
Fascinating! Although Ellen’s potential was almost twice as low as the others’, due to her having no royal heritage, or hero’s status, Caladrius not only managed to bypass the age of fourteen, a standard timestamp for a human, but also pump the girl with more than fifty levels!
“She… has given you a class… And you’re now on the fifty-second level…” Keyaruga spoke with his eyes widely opened. Seriously, in terms of progression, this was an act of pure, blatant favoritism on the deity’s side of things!
And how did Ellen take this gift?
“FUCKER!!! THAT’S TOO MUCH EVEN FOR A JOKE!!!” Oh, she was positively furious. After all, no power comes without a price to pay. “You! Who the fuck gave you the right to do this to me?!” The younger princess dashed in the direction of Caladrius’ beak. She eloped Setsuna’s grapple, passed around Keyaruga and Eve – all for the sake of that one punch! One punch to the head of this pompous pigeon with all of her new might! One strike… that didn’t even break the ornamental barrier around the bird.
“Rest assured, child. You have zero obligations before me. I am not the monster you are trying to make of me. You may think of that as my way of thanking you for helping my followers.” With that said and done, Caladrius once again rose to her full height in preparation for flying away. “I hope this alleviates your worries, little one.” “Farewell, du-na Me-ua (o great demon king). We shall meet again.” And just like that, the massive figure rose into the air. And when she’d done so, a white mist engulfed the deity, in which she faded from view completely.

Core info
DM looking for players to join a paid campaign of Wizards of the Coast's Icewind Dale Rime of the Frostmaiden on Thursdays at 1300EST/1800BST. $20/session. First two players to sign up get the first session 50% off.
Game Details
The cold bites at the tiny amount of exposed skin on your face as you stare through the gap in your wrappings of fur and cloth. Gusting snow and ice from the blizzard fills the air around you, threatening to bewilder and kill all who dare to roam into this torrent... the darkness of the never rising sun add to the intensity of the situation as you teeter on a knifes edge between freezing to death, and making it back to town.
Dungeons and Dragon's Icewind Dale Rime of the Frostmaiden is a classic high fantasy series of adventures opening up as a sandbox of exploration in and around the famous Ten Towns, situated in Icewind Dale in the far North of Fareun. Developing into a campaign to resolve the magical chaos bringing misery to those who live here. The campaign is known and reported to be a lengthy one so wrap up warm, its going to be a long winter!
Game Link
https://startplaying.games/adventure/clg2nv8qx000q08jkgmcb374l
About Me
I've been a Dungeon Master running campaigns and one-shots since I got the D&D 3.5e books in 2003. 20 years later, I'm still running weekly games. My experience as a DM ranges from the down-right bizarre such as an all-dwarven one-shot to save Santa, to more serious high-drama and high-fantasy multi-year campaigns.

Core info
DM looking for players to join a paid campaign of Wizards of the Coast's Icewind Dale Rime of the Frostmaiden on Thursdays at 1300EST/1800BST. $20/session. First two players to sign up get the first session 50% off.
Game Details
The cold bites at the tiny amount of exposed skin on your face as you stare through the gap in your wrappings of fur and cloth. Gusting snow and ice from the blizzard fills the air around you, threatening to bewilder and kill all who dare to roam into this torrent... the darkness of the never rising sun add to the intensity of the situation as you teeter on a knifes edge between freezing to death, and making it back to town.
Dungeons and Dragon's Icewind Dale Rime of the Frostmaiden is a classic high fantasy series of adventures opening up as a sandbox of exploration in and around the famous Ten Towns, situated in Icewind Dale in the far North of Fareun. Developing into a campaign to resolve the magical chaos bringing misery to those who live here. The campaign is known and reported to be a lengthy one so wrap up warm, its going to be a long winter!
Game Link
https://startplaying.games/adventure/clg2nv8qx000q08jkgmcb374l
About Me
I've been a Dungeon Master running campaigns and one-shots since I got the D&D 3.5e books in 2003. 20 years later, I'm still running weekly games. My experience as a DM ranges from the down-right bizarre such as an all-dwarven one-shot to save Santa, to more serious high-drama and high-fantasy multi-year campaigns.

Chapter 1 Previous Chapter
Emerging from an abyss of nothingness, the white oval stone materialized before Raphael, its surface resembling the intricate patterns of marble adorned with delicate veins of blue. A soft azure glow emanated from within, casting an ethereal light that captivated his gaze. It hovered there, suspended in the air, as if it had always been present, yet remained hidden from his sight until this very moment. Confusion washed over him as he questioned his own perception. Had he not been holding this very stone in his grasp all along? Yet, his hands now lay empty, devoid of the tangible presence he had come to expect. Raphael's senses were overwhelmed by the surreal spectacle unfolding before him. A profound sense of bewilderment enveloped his being, leaving him at a loss to comprehend the depths of this vivid experience. It felt as though an otherworldly force had interwoven every ounce of meaning into this enigmatic display. Cracks, like delicate fractures, traced the veins of the stone, amplifying the luminosity of its azure glow. The room, shrouded in darkness, revealed itself to be a somber sphere of obsidian, adorned with cryptic symbols etched into its very walls. Patterns and drawings emerged, etching themselves in crimson hues akin to freshly spilled blood, flowing and intertwining with every nook and cranny. As these lines of crimson drew closer to the levitating stone, their hue transformed into a chilling shade of purple, growing colder with each passing moment. Amidst this transformative spectacle, the flame at the heart of it all remained unwavering, a commanding presence that demanded acknowledgment. Azure light spilled forth from the stone, illuminating the room with an eerie radiance. It felt as though an unseen battle raged between the flame and the stone in a realm hidden from Raphael's understanding, each vying for his attention. Confusion, fear, and a profound sense of helplessness enveloped him, leaving him stripped of any agency. He was compelled, forced to bear witness to the enigmatic drama unfolding before his eyes, a spectator to forces beyond his control.
Let me out
The resonating voice echoed through Raphael's being, penetrating his consciousness with a demanding insistence. It was the very same voice, reminiscent of playful innocence, that had issued a warning just now or millennia before as time has lost its meaning to him. Now, it beseeched him, imploring him to unleash its essence. A conundrum unfolded before him, casting a shadow of uncertainty upon his thoughts. The stakes felt impossibly high, evading his grasp of comprehension. Caught in a paradoxical state of immobilization and searing intensity, he grappled with the conflicting sensations enveloping him. The light emanating from the levitating stone possessed an icy chill, a stark contrast to the scorching heat of the flame. Raphael stood suspended between conflicting forces, his very being locked in a state of paralysis. Yet, an unmistakable sense of urgency gnawed at him, demanding a choice, a resolution. The weight of importance bore down upon him, yet the fear of the unknown held him in its vice-like grip. Beads of cold sweat mingled with the heat coursing down his spine, a testament to the fear that gripped his heart, both for the present moment and the uncertain future that lay ahead.
“Why?”, was all that Raphael could ask as his lips felt unnaturally heavy as if hundreds of tons weighed down on him.
To save you. To save us., the childish voice answered. You have to act now. Give me your blessing!
Raphael pondered the mysterious voice that resonated within him, he sensed no malice or harmful intent. However, the source's true purpose remained elusive, leaving him in a state of uncertainty. The question of from what it sought to protect them lingered in his mind, unanswered. In an abrupt twist of fate, another transformation unfolded before him. The till now unphased towering flame surged higher than ever before, its fierce heat intensifying to an unbearable degree, searing his very essence. Simultaneously, the once vibrant azure glow began to wane, gradually fading into oblivion. The room, once adorned with enigmatic symbols and intricate patterns, plunged into eternal darkness, obscuring everything from view. The walls, now shrouded in shadow, concealed their secrets from prying eyes again.
QUICK, the voice screamed urgently.
Caught in a state of uncertainty, Raphael found himself at a crossroads, unsure of how to proceed. Yet, an undeniable desire welled up within him, compelling him to embrace the enigmatic scene unfolding before his eyes. With trepidation in his heart, he mustered the courage to yield to the voice, desperately hoping it was the right choice. In an instant, the dwindling azure glow surged back to life, obliterating everything in its wake. All that remained was a blinding, searing brilliance of cold, icy blue. The once prominent flame now struggled within this luminous onslaught, fighting to preserve its flickering existence. As the flame diminished, suffocating in the midst of this powerful light, a primal fear gripped Raphael's being not knowing what would be unleashed by this radiance of light. Cracks in the stone grew wider, pouring forth even more luminosity. Amidst the overwhelming azure flood, Raphael's eyes strained to discern a shape emerging—a stone arch where the flame once stood.
For now, I will lend you my power. Come meet me, when you are ready, the playful voice said as everything turned white.
With beads of sweat glistening on his brow and his breath labored, Raphael jolted awake in the damp prison he and Greg were held against their will, enveloped in a veil of fear. His hand, once cradling the stone against his heart, now lay empty, leaving him with an unsettling emptiness.
Next Chapter
Hope you enjoyed it. Thanks for reading!

(Obligatory "first story" note, thanks for reading!)
×-×-×-×-×
The human home-planet "Earth" has seasonal weather systems that are affected by the axial tilt of the planet. These are usually predictable depending on the season- summer is hot, winter is cold and in between is usually wet.
That said: I've spent some time living with humans and one day in particular showed me that occasionally not even their planet knows what season it should be. They once took me on a hike to a big "corry" lake in the mountains near us. The day started out with glorious summer sunshine, but as we climbed the weather got colder and foggy. I thought the clouds had fallen on us and when I said as such human Chris laughed and told me I was partially right.
The fog lifted after a bit but was replaced by rain and I was very glad of the coat I was made to bring in spite of the weather being forecast as sunny. As we neared the lake the air got colder and the rain turned to what the humans call "sleet": a kind of half-frozen rain.
Sleet was bad enough, but it got worse when the sky started to pelt us with pieces of ice. It stung when it struck exposed skin and I could feel it even through the coat I was wearing. We pressed on to the lake through the hail, the humans knowledge of the area preventing us from being killed by the mountain.
As we got to the edge of the lake the hail eased off, and in its place there came flurries of snow. Big flakes that got thicker and heavier until it obscured our vision. This apparently was finally bad enough for the humans to stop walking and hunker down. I huddled in next to a rock shivering while the others cracked jokes about the weather. These people were mad! One of them was even in his shorts still!
Once the snow started to clear we moved on around the lake. I'll admit, the view from the rocky ledge above the back end of the lake was imperssive but brief as the weather started to cycle back through all its forms again. To my relief, the sky cleared as we got back to the front end of the lake and I was astounded by the vast sweep of landscape. I could see all the way to the shining sea across a patchwork of countryside dotted with villages and criss-crossed with roads. The humans had such good knowledge of their homeland that they could even point out roughly where their house was even though they couldn't actually see it.
Back down the mountain at the car the insane weather seemed almost like a dream, but I came to this conclusion: if a human says they want to take you somewhere "cool", go with them. They love their planet with all its quirks and they love to share its beauty with others (even if the weather tries to kill them)
×-×-×-×
This is based on an actual hike I went on with my dad, my brother and a tourist friend. The tourist was shocked at how much the weather could change in the space of a few hours but hey, that's Irish weather for you

The human home-planet "Earth" has seasonal weather systems that are affected by the axial tilt of the planet. These are usually predictable depending on the season- summer is hot, winter is cold and in between is usually wet.
That said: I've spent some time living with humans and one day in particular showed me that occasionally not even their planet knows what season it should be. They once took me on a hike to a big "corry" lake in the mountains near us. The day started out with glorious summer sunshine, but as we climbed the weather got colder and foggy. I thought the clouds had fallen on us and when I said as such human Chris laughed and told me I was partially right.
The fog lifted after a bit but was replaced by rain and I was very glad of the coat I was made to bring in spite of the weather being forecast as sunny. As we neared the lake the air got colder and the rain turned to what the humans call "sleet": a kind of half-frozen rain.
Sleet was bad enough, but it got worse when the sky started to pelt us with pieces of ice. It stung when it struck exposed skin and I could feel it even through the coat I was wearing. We pressed on to the lake through the hail, the humans knowledge of the area preventing us from being killed by the mountain.
As we got to the edge of the lake the hail eased off, and in its place there came flurries of snow. Big flakes that got thicker and heavier until it obscured our vision. This apparently was finally bad enough for the humans to stop walking and hunker down. I huddled in next to a rock shivering while the others cracked jokes about the weather. These people were mad! One of them was even in his shorts still!
Once the snow started to clear we moved on around the lake. I'll admit, the view from the rocky ledge above the back end of the lake was imperssive but brief as the weather started to cycle back through all its forms again. To my relief, the sky cleared as we got back to the front end of the lake and I was astounded by the vast sweep of landscape. I could see all the way to the shining sea across a patchwork of countryside dotted with villages and criss-crossed with roads. The humans had such good knowledge of their homeland that they could even point out roughly where their house was even though they couldn't actually see it.
Back down the mountain at the car the insane weather seemed almost like a dream, but I came to this conclusion: if a human says they want to take you somewhere "cool", go with them. They love their planet with all its quirks and they love to share its beauty with others (even if the weather tries to kill them)
×-×-×-×
This is based on an actual hike I went on with my dad, my brother and a tourist friend. The tourist was shocked at how much the weather could change in the space of a few hours but hey, that's Irish weather for you.

Where memories fade, love's essence ignites.
A car crash into a pine tree shatters the facade of a once seemingly blissful marriage. Jack's desperate attempts to bring down the tree with a chainsaw leave his wife, Hazel, wondering what has become of their bond. Is he still the same man she fell in love with three decades ago? As Hazel battles her fears, "Journey to the Treetop" invites readers on an emotional ride through the tumultuous landscape of a mind affected by memory loss.
CABIN ROAD is the gateway to paradise.
But why does this feel like a path to hell?
I smash into a tall pine tree that stands in the middle of the otherwise straight gravel road. I've gone around it hundreds of times before. But now, my fingers are firmly gripped on the steering wheel, disregarding all my commands. Have I become paralyzed?
A potato is wobbling on the dashboard, having obviously leaped out of the potato crates in the back seat. Jack gets out and strides to the front bumper. His lips press into a thin line as he appraises the destruction and cost of fixing it. Nothing should hold him back from swearing. But he maintains his composure, anger simmering just beneath the surface.
The memory of thirty years of marriage fills my mind. I question whether this man has drugged me. A fleeting thought that he might have crashed the car surfaces, but it seems too much of a stretch. I take a deep breath and try to clear my head.
In the rear-view mirror, Jack gets an axe from the trunk. He comes and gazes at me from my window, his eyes looking heavy and weary—like two precious pearls inside their oyster-like shells. I straighten and open the window:
“Thank goodness it wasn't worse.”
“I'll chop it down.”
“That’s a pretty big tree, Jack.”
Jack blinks several times.
“I do have a chainsaw...”
“Yes.” I wonder what stories this tree has witnessed during its lifetime. Will we see the marks of our journey on its rings? There’s always something that gets squeezed in tighter, begging to be unraveled.
“I'll drive you to the cabin and grab the chainsaw,” Jack says. “Prepare some coffee while I'm gone.”
Our short passage to the cabin around the bend is like shifting through the fog of memory. I'm in the kitchen. My fingers clench around the coffee tin can and spoon. Bewilderment engulfs my brain. I spot Jack with his saw. He slips around the corner, the curve of his bottom visible through his tight work trousers. I feel anxious about the crash. Did I deliberately hit the tree?
The measuring spoon slips from my hand. It drops onto the floor along with the tin can. I clean up the mess. Could someone drive into a tree on purpose? Accidents do happen after all. It's fascinating to see him take on this role of being so chivalrous. Far away from his academic duties.
As the chainsaw outside whines, I scroll through social media on my phone. People arguing about something or other makes me tired. I pick up a copy of Science magazine from the coffee table and scan through an article titled “Quantum Communication Across Interstellar Space,” authored by Jack. As usual, the details go right over my head. I like to amuse myself with the idea that it speaks about communicating with individuals who have passed away.
Billy's message pops up. He asks for money for a fishing trip with his buddies somewhere in Lapland. I am more than happy to support him since he’s enlisting in the army soon in July. My big boy.
I tell him about the car crash, and he gives me advice about a car repair store. Jack comes back earlier than expected. He plops into his seat, sweat beading on his forehead and the smell of resin emanating from him. He seems disappointed.
I pour coffee to the brim.
“Did the saw get stuck?”
Jack shakes his head and adds sugar to his mug.
“It got shattered under the tree. I stumbled...”
Silence descends slowly, like dust.
“My helmet cracked.”
“Do you want me to buy new parts when I go to the store?”
“No need.”
“But there's pruning and cutting to do first.”
Jack takes a bite out of a cinnamon bun.
“I can sharpen the axe.”
“Ask the neighbors for help, that's what they're for. You can also mow the lawn while I'm away.”
“The grass is already short— it'll die off.”
“You don't want ticks taking over! Think about your mother's joint pain. She would roll in her grave if—”
“Cremated?’
“Yes!” My answer is like a flyswatter, leaving no room for further discussion or quantum physics.
Jack is busy chewing on the bun. His regular coffee breaks, which have become part of his daily routine in his sixties, have honed impressive jowls.
We enjoy our coffee and stare at the lake. Calm as a mirror. I have a feeling Jack will soon suggest fishing. As I gather my things to leave, I call to him:
“Don't hurt yourself. Should I bring more buns?”
“I was thinking of skipping the sugar and wheat...”
I simply smile in reply.
“Can you refuel the car?” Jack asks.
I'm already off. The door slams shut in the middle of his sentence, but Jack knows better than to expect a response.
I jump into the driver's seat and immediately notice forgotten potato baskets in the back seat, but my mind drifts away before I can do anything about it. As I pass by our old well, I remember that we need to discuss connecting the cabin to a new water source. No matter what it costs, it needs to be done. Why should I agree to be responsible for our running water anymore?
I collide with something hard. Airbags abruptly inflate around me, disorienting me as my vision blurs. Struggling to escape from the tangled mess of seatbelts and inflatable bags, it feels like I'm an old person trying to climb out of a bouncy castle.
My gaze rests on the scene before me, but my thoughts can't understand it. I have plowed into a tree stump. The tree stretches over the ditch. Nearby the chainsaw lies crushed. The cutting chain is nowhere to be found.
I get back in the car. Should I phone Jack for an urgent call? Inhaling slowly helps me stay calm. Why didn’t he mention the tree stump?
Someone taps on my window
I jump and my neck stiffens up. I reach for the window switch.
“I should have told you about...” Jack says.
“The stump?”
“Didn't you see the tree on the ground?”
“I'm sorry. I was daydreaming.”
“Great galaxy, Hazel! You're burning through our last savings as if money grew on trees!”
Jack is being truly authentic with me. I stare back at him like some big-eyed exotic species from Madagascar that I can't identify in all this chaos.
Jack opens the door and starts to put the cushion back in its place. We turn on the engine, giving the accelerator a test ride.
“Let's go to a repair shop. I'm sure our insurance will cover this,” Jack suggests. “We can say that we had an accident with a reindeer.”
“You're supposed to report it to the police or game warden if you hit an animal,” I reply.
Jack pauses for a moment. He then reverses and drives forward again, but when he looks into the rear-view mirror, he slams on the brakes.
“I have a better plan.”
He retrieves an orange towing strap from the trunk, a burst of determination on his face. He connects the stump and the tow hook.
“Get ready. We’re going to take a quantum leap here.”
We buckle our seat belts with a single click as we prepare for the inevitable disaster. We had already made so many mistakes together, starting with raising our children—though sometimes failing was just part of parenting.
Jack revs up the engine. A sudden lurch forward, then Jack howls in pain as the stump smashes through the rear window, clambering through the seats and lodging itself onto the gearbox, trapping Jack's hand. He veers off toward the ditch.
The Milky Way spins around us, potatoes fly in the air and suddenly, all is quiet. We find ourselves upside down—surrounded by earthy potatoes and broken glass.
I try to break the silence:
“I just remembered: Billy's friend can repair cars at the vocational school much cheaper.”
Jack looks so pale, his face almost white. I guess he’s contemplating the next step.
Through the cracked windshield, I see the chainsaw chain lying in the ditch. How did it come to be rusting away? Maybe everything will go back to normal if we sit here and wait.
It feels almost as if we are flying in outer space, my nerves slowly calming down. But then a sudden stillness strikes that is anything but soothing.
“Jack, I’m feeling a bit dizzy…”
No answer.
“Jack...”
I snap open my eyes and the scene in front of me has changed drastically. It’s like I’ve been sucked into some kind of surreal void.
I hear a tapping noise on the window. An apology and then a loud thud; a huge rock has been hurled through the glass. A stench of strong aftershave ferments around me. A burly arm reaches across to release the seatbelt. An elderly man growls something crude, nothing like Jack's usual scout-like words.
My eyes close as I'm being cradled away, and visions of Jack's mathematics and symbols flicker around in my mind. Is the soul truly free when there is no force of gravity to pull us down?
I don't know who my savior is, but I can sense his worry as his face reddens. He is in military garb.
I come to as I feel my head thudding against the rubble. Instantly, I yearn to run away, contemplating that perhaps this experience is only a dream, and I'm back in the cabin chamber, tucked securely underneath a cosy blanket. A blanket that grants me the power to perform heroic acts like disappearing in a puff of smoke.
“Are you okay?” he speaks in a familiar voice.
Fingers brush over my clothes, picking out pieces of glass. My pocket contains an odd bulge—a potato? Suddenly, everything clicks: an aged Billy, wearing a major's rank insignia. How could he have achieved that rank so fast?
“Son, what are you doing on this tree ring?”
Billy peers at me from across the way, accompanied by a mysterious female figure.
“We came to check on how you're doing,” Billy says. “Do you remember what happened?”
I raise my head and look around. There's nobody in the driver's seat of the car.
“Where is Jack?” I manage.
Billy furrows his brows like a detective would when weighing evidence. An image of the classic TV show Columbo flashes through my mind—he could lull suspects into a false sense of security before dropping the hammer of his sharp intellect on their inconsistencies. But I'm not hiding anything here. Though why are modern shows so bad? That's another mystery entirely.
“Mom, what were you doing out here? The road is an absolute disaster zone, with the car smashed up in the ditch.”
My thoughts swim haphazardly as Billy reads something from my expression, then casts his eyes towards his new girlfriend for assistance.
I try to get up but it hurts too much. Instead, I reach into my pocket and feel a sandy-sharp potato there. Maybe I can still wash it off.
“I’m fine,” I reply. “I need to get back to plowing the field... baking buns for Jack... buying a chainsaw...”
The darkness returns and I feel my body shiver. I'm in the car, traveling down bumps I've known for quite some time. Soon, I’m settled inside the cabin's living room on the couch. The coffee maker is gurgling in the corner of the room. Billy is on a call with a doctor about how to deal with grief and coping alone; it seems someone had died while cutting down a tree last year. He gets furious and threatens to take away the keys from the person he's talking to. It might be a good idea; many people have too many keys that they don't use anyway.
My head is spinning with thoughts about Jack's absence. Where did he go?
Someone runs water over potatoes while a pot clatters on the stovetop. My temper rises as I wait for Jack's return. I won't stay here by myself without an explanation from him. I call out for Jack until there's no sound left but my coughing voice.
I crave sausage soup, and I know I must go to the store. As I try to move forward, I am wading through tar. They guide me to the coffee table. According to Jack, time runs faster the more hunched your back becomes. Let it be and let us sit here, motionless, gazing at the tips of our shoes. Surely, time has slowed down in this moment.
Billy reaches out and takes my hand. A handsome, greying gentleman. His girlfriend also places her hand on top of the pile. Her name is Ewa. A beautiful name, something familiar about her.
But did I hear her calling me mother?
In the yard, a squirrel hops with a cone in its mouth. It freezes and stares at me. I avert my gaze. My hands suddenly look wrinkled. I summon the inner strength that I've been striving to find for an eternity:
“Do we have to leave now?”
Billy exchanges glances with Ewa and then looks outside.
“You don't have to walk this path alone, Mother.”
We finish our coffee without saying another word. The wind sweeps across the lake. A pair of swans take flight, and a duet of gentle honks echo across the water.
A shivering cold envelops me. Billy and Ewa take me to the car. The potatoes can wait.
The sun blazes brightly above us as we travel the cabin road; shapeless clouds dot the horizon and suddenly I sense a presence—as if someone is waving to me.
I surrender.
I believe I will be warmly welcomed.

I'm gonna use it Majorly for
Coding Entertainment purpose Browsing heavily College academic stuff
I also have a question about how long will both get OS updates?

I'm gonna use it Majorly for
Coding Entertainment purpose Browsing heavily College academic stuff
I also have a question about how long will both get OS updates?

I'm gonna use it Majorly for
Coding Entertainment purpose Browsing heavily College academic stuff
I also have a question about how long will both get OS updates?

Hey everyone. I'm looking to buy a laptop. I'm in college and learning graphics design so the obvious choice is to go with Mac in the future.
Currently, I don't have money for m1/m2 to spend, so I want to get something cheaper to get familiar with the mac os.
Note, this laptop wouldn't be my main machine. I already have a pretty decent PC.
I have already done some research about these two, but couldn't find the definitive answer because they are too old I guess.
​
So, I'm deciding between the 2012 air and the 2012 pro.
​
so the Macbook Air 2012 specs are:
i5 1,8 GHz proc 4 GB ram 256gb ssd intel 4000 gfx 1536mb a new battery (5 cycles)
​
Macbook Pro 2012 specs are:
i7 2,3 GHz 8 GB ram 500 gb hdd nvidia gt 650m gfx 512mb
​
Macbook air is $170 and pro is $240. Note, I don't regret spending $70 more if the pro is a much better machine.
Should I even buy one of them? Are they a deal, or the price is too high?

Seems like we can actually use AI to help us generate content for our games:

Can you analyze the monst.c file of the video game NetHack and suggest a couple of new entries that could be added to that file? ChatGPT As an AI language model, I don't have direct access to specific files or codebases like the monst.c file of NetHack. However, I can certainly help you come up with a couple of new monster entries that could be added to the game based on its existing content and mechanics. Here are two suggestions: MON("Spectral Wraith", S_WRAITH, LVL(10, 14, 0, 50, -9), (G_NOCORPSEG_SGROUPG_NOCOUNT), A(ATTK(AT_WEAP, AD_PHYS, 2, 6), ATTK(AT_TUCH, AD_COLD, 2, 6), ATTK(AT_NONE, AD_COLD, 0, 4), NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK), SIZ(WT_HUMAN, 0, 0, MS_MUMBLE, MZ_HUMAN), MR_COLDMR_SLEEPMR_POISONMR_STONE, MR_COLD, M1_BREATHLESSM1_HUMANOIDM1_POISM1_REGEN, M2_NOPOLYM2_UNDEADM2_STALKM2_HOSTILE, M3_INFRAVISIONM3_TRAITOR, 0, 0, HI_LORD), Description: The spectral wraith is a powerful undead entity that roams the darkest depths of the dungeons. Clad in ethereal armor, it wields a ghostly weapon with deadly precision. Its touch freezes its victims with bone-chilling cold, and it radiates an aura of frigid air. Beware its treacherous nature, as it has been known to lure adventurers into perilous traps. MON("Arcane Elemental", S_ELEMENTAL, LVL(8, 10, 6, 30, 0), (G_NOCORPSEG_NOGEN), A(ATTK(AT_CLAW, AD_MAGM, 3, 8), ATTK(AT_NONE, AD_MAGM, 0, 4), NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK), SIZ(WT_MEDIUM, 0, 0, MS_SILENT, MZ_LARGE), MR_MAGICMR_STONE, 0, M1_NOEYESM1_NOHANDSM1_AMPHIBIOUS, M2_NEUTERM2_STALKM2_HOSTILE, 0, 0, 0, CLR_BRIGHT_MAGENTA), Description: The arcane elemental is a creature born from the raw forces of magic. Its shimmering form crackles with arcane energy, and it possesses the ability to unleash devastating magical claws upon its foes. Immune to the effects of magic and made of solid mystical essence, it is a formidable adversary capable of manipulating the very fabric of reality. These suggestions introduce new monsters with unique abilities and characteristics, while adhering to the existing framework of NetHack. Feel free to modify or adjust these entries as needed to suit your game's mechanics and balance. User Those suggestions are great! If it's not too much trouble for you, could you generate five more of those? ChatGPT Certainly! Here are five additional monster entries for NetHack: MON("Gloomshade Crawler", S_SPIDER, LVL(6, 9, 4, 0, -5), (G_GENOG_SGROUP1), A(ATTK(AT_BITE, AD_DRST, 3, 4), ATTK(AT_SPIT, AD_ACID, 2, 4), NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK), SIZ(WT_MEDIUM, 0, 0, MS_SILENT, MZ_MEDIUM), MR_POISON, 0, M1_ANIMALM1_NOHANDSM1_POIS, M2_HOSTILEM2_STALK, M3_INFRAVISION, 0, 0, CLR_GRAY), Description: The Gloomshade Crawler is a venomous spider lurking in the shadows. Its fangs deliver a potent toxin that weakens its prey, and it can also spit corrosive acid to further incapacitate its victims. It blends seamlessly with its environment, making it a silent and deadly predator. MON("Gilded Sentinel", S_GOLEM, LVL(12, 10, 3, 60, 0), (G_NOCORPSEG_NOGEN), A(ATTK(AT_WEAP, AD_PHYS, 4, 8), NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK), SIZ(WT_HUMAN, 0, 0, MS_SILENT, MZ_HUMAN), MR_SLEEPMR_STONE, 0, M1_HUMANOIDM1_SEE_INVIS, M2_STRONGM2_STALKM2_NASTY, M3_INFRAVISIBLE, 0, 0, HI_GOLD), Description: The Gilded Sentinel is an animated suit of ornate golden armor, crafted with exquisite detail. It wields a formidable weapon and is impervious to sleep and turning to stone. A relentless guardian of precious treasures, it will fiercely defend its hoard against any intruders. MON("Frostwyrm", S_DRAGON, LVL(15, 10, 2, 20, -7), (G_GENO1), A(ATTK(AT_BITE, AD_COLD, 6, 8), ATTK(AT_CLAW, AD_PHYS, 4, 6), ATTK(AT_BREA, AD_COLD, 5, 6), NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK), SIZ(WT_HUGE, CN_HUGE, 0, MS_ROAR, MZ_GIGANTIC), MR_COLDMR_SLEEPMR_POISON, MR_COLD, M1_ANIMALM1_FLYM1_THICK_HIDE, M2_HOSTILEM2_STALKM2_STRONG, M3_INFRAVISIONM3_TRAITOR, 0, 0, CLR_CYAN), Description: The Frostwyrm is a massive, winged dragon wreathed in icy frost. Its bite and claws can rend even the strongest armor, while its freezing breath can encase its adversaries in solid ice. A sight to behold, it instills fear in the hearts of those who dare to challenge its dominion. MON("Dread Banshee", S_GHOST, LVL(10, 13, -5, 50, -10), (G_NOCORPSEG_SGROUPG_NOCOUNT), A(ATTK(AT_TUCH, AD_DRST, 1, 8), ATTK(AT_TUCH, AD_PHYS, 2, 4), NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK), SIZ(WT_HUMAN, 0, 0, MS_MOAN, MZ_HUMAN), MR_SLEEPMR_POISON, MR_SLEEP, M1_FLYM1_HUMANOIDM1_UNSOLID, M2_NOPOLYM2_STALKM2_HOSTILE, M3_TRAITORM3_INFRAVISION, 0, 0, CLR_BLACK), Description: The Dread Banshee is a tormented spirit, forever trapped in an anguished existence. Its chilling touch can drain the life force of its victims, leaving them weakened and vulnerable. Wailing with despair, it seeks solace in the suffering of others. MON("Ashen Golem", S_GOLEM, LVL(8, 8, 5, 0, 0), (G_NOCORPSEG_NOGEN), A(ATTK(AT_CLAW, AD_PHYS, 3, 6), ATTK(AT_CLAW, AD_PHYS, 3, 6), NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK, NO_ATTK), SIZ(WT_LARGE, 0, 0, MS_SILENT, MZ_LARGE), MR_FIRE, MR_FIRE, M1_HUMANOID, M2_STALKM2_STRONGM2_NASTY, M3_INFRAVISION, 0, 0, CLR_RED), Description: The Ashen Golem is a construct of charred and blackened stone, imbued with the essence of fire. Its powerful clawed hands can strike with searing heat, leaving its enemies scorched and smoldering. It is impervious to flames and thrives in the presence of intense heat. Feel free to modify these entries or use them as inspiration for your game. Enjoy expanding the monstrous world of NetHack! 

If I were to add those to my NetHack variant, I guess I'll have to add attributions to ChatGPT so it's not copyright infringement? After all, I've not created those entries myself ;)

Hello Everyone, I made a post a few months ago about the Demon mythic path, but now I have some questions about my recently started Lich playthrough. I'm playing on custom normal difficulty so build optimization isn't that important to me. I am currently close after the start of act 1. My build is a winter witch damage caster with cold conversion, inspired by this fairly recent build from CRPGbro. I apologize in advance if some of these questions were answered before. Here they are:

1. At which point does a non-dhampir lich get negative energy affinity? Would she be able to heal herself well enough alone or should I have a specialized negative energy healer? I much prefer to run with story companions rather than mercs or undead companions, which I hear have much less interactivity. However, if I would need to run a specialized negative energy healer, I might make a cleric of balance merc instead of Daeran for healing, as they have both channel positive energy and channel negative energy. Would that be a worthwhile investment in act 1?
2. The build above suggests grabbing some spells from the Last Sarkorians DLC, but I own it and don't have it installed since I don't plan on using Ulbrig in this run. Should I still install the DLC anyway just for the new witch and shaman (for Camellia) spells?
3. This is more of a story question. I saw that some other mythic paths have alternate "legitimate" (not failed/fallen like Renegade Aeon for example) subpaths your character can take, like Angel of Salvation/Retribution for more focus on Good/mercy and redemption vs Lawful/punishing criminals and traitors, or Freedom/Tyranny Demon for either fully unleashing your rage or suppressing it at times and respecting authority of other demons. Is there a similar thing for Lich path? I haven't found a conclusive answer online and I really want to play my character more focused on the pursuit of arcane knowledge at any cost and not become a comically evil villain with no nuance (she'll still be evil of course). How feasible is this within the path's storyline?