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universitypenguin · 10 months

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Chapter 15

Summary: Lloyd takes things too far in his threat against Deputy Russell and has to change tactics mid-stream. Princess and Zach decide to push back against Detective Roth's allegations.

Word Count: 3,936

Masterlist

Warnings: Mention of drug trafficking, murder, legal proceedings, spy/intelligence agencies, corruption, stalking, violence, threatening, and discussion of criminal behavior. Minor foul language. Only appropriate for 18+ readers. No minors.

The Princess & the Lawyer Chapter 15

Lloyd stood at the stove stirring a noxious mixture of gasoline and aluminum hydroxide. Pungent fumes hung thick in the air, forcing him to cover his mouth and nose with a bandanna.

The screen door slammed, and familiar footsteps echoed through the hall.

“Ugh! What is that stench? Did a gas line rupture?”

Elliot’s voice rang through the house before he came around the corner into the kitchen.

His bright-eyed appearance was in sharp contrast with Lloyd’s sleep-deprived state. Knowing his cousin had been left in charge of their captive all night, Lloyd couldn’t help but draw the obvious conclusion. Elliot’s excessive cheerfulness was derived from a more potent source than caffeine - he was smoking ice again.

“I followed your instructions and made a copy of Carl’s phone,” Elliot said, buzzing with excitement. “Guess what? Sheriff Holbrook’s texts are still on there, tucked away in some encrypted app. We could use it as leverage!”

Lloyd shook his head. “No. We can’t deviate from the plan. Did Russell agree to a meeting time?”

“Eleven o'clock at High Meadows.”

“Not a bad choice. Lots of entrances and exits,” Lloyd said. “I’m almost finished here. There’s water cooler jugs filled with this stuff piled up on the back deck. Bring your truck around and start loading them for me, will you?”

“Sure thing, man.”

Elliot bounded down the hall and Lloyd rubbed his tired eyes. He desperately needed some sleep unless he planned on asking Elliot for a bump of meth to keep him going. Lloyd shut off the stove, checked the final batch of chemicals, and rinsed his spoon in the sink. He stuck his head outside to inform Elliot he was going to bed and headed up the stairs.

Just as he lay down, his phone rang.

“Hello?”

“Mr. Hansen? This is Judy Lange from the HOA. I wanted to let you know that the association swimming pool has been fixed and approved for reopening on Monday. Should I leave your keys in the mailbox for your house sitter, or wait until you’re back?”

Mrs. Lange didn’t actually hold an official position with the Homeowners Association. Her husband had campaigned for the post out of pure spite. His single-minded crusade against Della Collins’ window box planters and their “busy-looking” Ultra Star Petunias earned him a landslide victory in the election. He’d passed a statute banning all multicolored blossoms from public spaces and after his triumph, lost interest in executing the duties of his office.

Despite her eccentric husband, Lloyd found Mrs. Lange to be a reasonable person. Her annoying habit of speaking at a million words per minute was made up for by impeccable manners and a sharp sense of humor. Even Mrs. Collins, who was still torqued at Mr. Lange a year later, couldn’t resist her charms.

After his brain finally managed to process her rapid fire words, Lloyd grunted.

“The mailbox is fine. I’ll text my friend and let her know to pick them up.”

“Excellent. I apologize for calling you at such a time, Lloyd.”

Mrs. Lange’s voice carried a hint of horror, as if she’d just realized she had contacted someone in the midst of a family tragedy. Lloyd didn’t view the situation as such, but he recognized the apologetic shift in her tone as she launched into a long winded explanation.

“With everything going on, I am sure now is a terrible time for you… I just didn’t want to forget. You’re the most frequent patron of our athletic facilities. Well, usually the only patron to be frank. Mrs. Collins isn’t getting around like she used to after her knee surgery. Anyways, I’ll personally take those keys to your friend so they’re ready when you get back. And if there’s anything I can do for you, don’t hesitate to reach out.”

She really meant it, Lloyd thought, his lips twisting into a bitter smile. If only she knew what the man who he was supposed to be grieving had done to him.

“Thanks, Judy. I appreciate it.”

“Of course, darling. I’ll see you around.”

Already half asleep, Lloyd hung up the phone. His last thought was that he needed to call you. Hearing from Judy reminded him of home, and of you. It had been days since your last talk and that was far too long. Before the meeting with Russell, Lloyd promised himself he’d make time for a conversation.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

You stalked back and forth in front of Zach’s desk, breathing hard, your fists clenched in frustration.

“I can’t believe his nerve! Can you believe this? Can you?!”

“Uh-huh.”

Zach grunted and continued tapping on his keyboard.

“He has the audacity to accuse us of leaking information to the media, without a shred of evidence? It’s unprofessional!”

Zach nodded, seemingly absorbed in his work.

“I spent so much time building them a database and now no one can use it. The whole process was exhausting and tedious and… are you even listening to me?”

“Yes. Roth is an infuriating bastard. I knew it from the start, and you thought he was cute.”

“I did not!”

“Did so,” Zach said.

“Did not.”

“Let’s not lose sight of our most important objective here.”

“Yes, let’s not. What is that objective, again?” you asked.

“Getting back in Roth’s good graces and thereby, restoring our access to information and resources.”

“I’m sorry, were we just in the same room? About twenty minutes ago, when Roth kicked us to the curb and Bishop had a melt down?”

“We’re not going to let our hard work go to waste. There’s more than one key for every lock, you know?”

“Uh… that’s not how locks work.”

“It is when you know how to pick locks,” Zach quipped.

“I haven’t even told you about my conversation with Mr. Liu!”

He resumed typing, his attention focused on the monitor. “No sister?”

“Well, that’s a very anticlimactic way of putting it, but yes. He’s certain that Julia didn’t have a sister.”

“That’s the conclusion I ended up at too.”

“Should we tell Roth?”

“I’d rather clear our names first,” Zach said.

“How?”

“Look at this.”

Zach pivoted his monitor to show you the screen.

You stared at a map of Arlington with a route highlighted in purple. Squinting, you noted the web address of a popular running app called PacePal. The account’s username was generic and the profile picture was an image of a man's athletic shoes.

“What am I looking at?”

Zach smirked. “This PacePal profile belongs to Peter Shaw. The account photo is of the same running shoes he’s wearing in the Twitter he shared last year of himself finishing the Miami Marathon.”

“Okay, not to make myself look like an idiot, but who is Peter Shaw?”

“A very tenacious investigative reporter with Rolling Stone Magazine. He’s also the only person who knows the real identity of the leaker, and thanks to his lax attitude toward social media security, we know where Mr. Shaw will be at two o’clock this afternoon.”

“So, if I’m hearing you correctly, we’re going to give Detective Roth a taste of his own medicine?”

“I intend to serve him a fresh plate of crow as soon as humanly possible,” Zach said.

You raised an eyebrow. “Ruthless much?”

“I didn’t pull in that jackass Lattimer without a damn good reason. We’re onto something with Julia’s supposed sister and if we don’t keep pushing the trail will go cold. What do you say, Princess? Shall we go put Shaw on notice?”

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Lloyd called you when he woke, but reached your voicemail instead of you. He sent a text instead and dove into the shower to scrub off the lingering stench of gasoline that clung to his skin.

None of the clothes he’d packed suited the character he wanted to portray tonight, so he rummaged through Joe’s closet in search of better options. In the back, he discovered a garment bag containing the winning ensemble: a navy suit with wide lapels, bootcut trousers, and a matching waistcoat. It screamed 1970’s gaudy at the top of its lungs.

To complete the look, Lloyd installed the hair extensions he’d sent Elliot to acquire from a beauty supply store two towns over. Cutting the remaining extensions into three-inch pieces, he applied them carefully across his jaw, smirking as he remembered April's suggestion that he should grow a beard. The overall effect was a cross between Jerry Garcia and Medusa on a bad hair day.

For accessories, Lloyd raided Joe’s dresser. He added rings, a gold chain necklace, and a pair of lightly tinted orange sunglasses. The oversized frames elevated the look from vintage inspired to unmistakably costume like - a perfect fit for the character he was putting on. He slapped on a strongly scented aftershave he found in Joe’s medicine cabinet and instantly regretted it when his eyes watered from the fumes.

Resisting the urge to wash it off, he turned his attention to more practical matters. Joe’s gun cabinet yielded a wide assortment of armaments. He owned weapons from every firearms manufacturer on the market in the past fifty years. Lloyd wasn’t keen to give a hopped up meth addict a gun, but circumstances demanded it. He picked up a Winchester Renegade and checked the ammunition.

“Hey, Elliot! How’s your aim these days?”

Elliot turned around from his task of cleaning up the kitchen and did a double take of Lloyd’s outfit.

“Better than most people’s. What are you wearing, dude? Are we going to make a drug deal or audition for Saturday Night Fever?”

Lloyd snorted at the question and held out the Winchester Renegade.

“I need you to watch my back while I’m meeting with Russell. Just in case things don’t go according to plan.”

“Understood. I’m the second shooter on the grassy knoll,” Elliot said.

They took back roads to the meeting spot. By the time they reached their destination, Elliot’s old truck was covered in mud from the unpaved roads that cut through the vast Idaho landscape. They were deep in the countryside, hidden from prying eyes of passersby on the highway by miles of barren hills.

High Meadows had once been a thriving venue for team roping and barrel racing events. Now, the clay earth he remembered as being meticulously groomed played host to an invasion of dandelions and scotch thistle. The red aluminum roof over the pavilion had faded to a dull rust color and the cedar panel fencing that encircled the space was bent with age and broken in several places.

He helped Elliot unload the water cooler jugs filled with the gelled fuel that he’d spent the morning cooking. Lloyd marked out a circle, about twenty feet in diameter, in the middle of the arena and cut a small trench into the ground. With Elliot’s help he poured the viscous mixture into the trough and raked the displaced dirt back into place.

They hid their equipment in the bed of Elliot’s truck and moved the vehicle into a ravine near the main access road to High Meadows.

Lloyd turned to his cousin. “Go take up position on that hill over there.”

He pointed to a spot beyond the dilapidated grandstands. “It has the best vantage point. Also, there’s a thermal scope in your backpack in case the night vision doesn’t cut it.”

Elliot slung his backpack over his shoulder and disappeared into the hills. Lloyd took his position in the arena as the sun settled behind the horizon. He lay down on one of the risers in the grandstands, propped his feet up, and dozed until the sun went down. Suddenly, the crackle of the Bluetooth in his ear brought Lloyd back to the present as Elliot’s voice broke him from semi-unconscious.

“Russell is pulling in,” Elliot said.

“I see the headlights,” Lloyd confirmed.

The beams of Russell’s headlights cut through the darkness, illuminating the arena. Lloyd leaned casually against a pillar on the far side. The position gave him plenty of time to observe Russell as he approached. The deputy was clearly spooked - he’d worn a bulletproof vest over his khaki uniform.

“Nice of you to finally show up,” Lloyd called out in greeting.

Russell stepped into the arena, his eyes scanning the space, trying to assess the situation.

“Who are you?”

“Didn’t Carl tell you? We’re the Canadians,” Lloyd said, flashing a mischievous grin.

Russell’s eyebrows furrowed.

“Now, let’s get down to business!” Lloyd clapped his hands and rubbed them together. “Don’t look so tense, Luke. I’m here to make you rich, and myself even richer. You see, I came here to shake down a former associate, but the trouble is this jackass died before I could get to him. So, I found a locally connected businessman and squeezed until he spilled your name.”

The deputy’s nostrils flared, a warning sign Lloyd waved off dismissively.

“Don’t worry about it. I took care of him.”

“What do you mean you ‘took care of him’?” Russell demanded.

“I took him for a swim in Redfish Lake, the kind you don’t come back from,” Lloyd said, punctuating that statement with a wink.

Russell’s shock was palpable. Lloyd gave him a beat to recover, but when he just got a blank stare in response, he shifted tactics and threw his arms out in exaggerated frustration.

“Oh, come on! Be fucking for real, bro. Do you have two brain cells left rattling around in that ugly mug, pig? I got rid of your dealer because, number one, he’s a snitch and I don’t fuck with snitches. Number two, getting rid of Carl gives you the opportunity to set up a more reliable distribution system. Isn’t that nice? An open playing field with no territorial disputes from the locals? You can thank me now, or later.”

Russell hesitated. Lloyd didn’t let the silence linger.

“Okay, then. You’ll thank me later. Look, about-”

“You really killed Carl?”

Lloyd sighed. “Would I lie to you? Me? I have a reputation to uphold, Deputy.”

“You’re a fucking psychopath, that’s what you are,” Russell said, edging backwards.

“Hey! We’re not done talking business!” Lloyd yelled after the man as he turned away.

“Yes we are. Go to hell!”

“Don’t walk away from me, pig! This isn’t the kind of conversation you can just walk away from!”

Lloyd’s voice echoed through the pavilion, ringing with anger.

Russell glanced over his shoulder.

“Oh, Luke… My number one rule is simple: I don’t fuck with snitches. Rule number two? Dirty cops who know your face are bad business. You see, they always end up being snitches. It’s like different flavors of the same ice cream. Triple chocolate fudge or brownie delight, who can tell ‘em apart?”

As Russell’s hand went for his gun, Lloyd flipped open his lighter and tossed it on the ground. The carefully prepared mixture of gasoline ignited instantly, shooting up and forming a wall of fire that raced around to encircle them.

Taken by surprise, Deputy Russell instinctively moved away from the searing heat of the flames an action that inadvertently drew him closer to Lloyd.

“Isn’t this nice? I find it rather cozy, like stepping into a bubble of security.”

Lloyd chuckled, his smile twisted with madness.

“This is how you conduct business?” Russell hissed, eyes glinting with shocked desperation as the flames continued to roar around them.

“I find it refocuses the attention when a deal starts getting off track.”

“What the hell do you want?!”

“I’ve made myself very clear, Russell. You need to work on your attention span. Here’s the deal: we become business partners… or you become a victim of what I like to call ‘spontaneous human combustion.’”

“Spontaneous,” the deputy muttered, looking at the flames.

“I never really plan on cremating anyone,” Lloyd said, as if it were the most reasonable thing in the world to discuss incinerating your business associates. “Every time I’ve actually gone through with this, the whole thing happens so fast, it really does look spontaneous. Now, Deputy… What do you say? Ready to make a deal?”

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

You sat beside Zach on a park bench, trying to make the most of the slight shade of a tree that offered a tiny bit of respite from the blistering August heat. The sound of approaching footfalls was a major relief. Five more minutes out here and you would have melted. You glanced up to see Peter Shaw, a man of average height with close cropped dark hair, nearing your bench.

Zach stood up and moved to the center of the path, blocking access to the parking lot.

“Peter Shaw. I’m Zach Hightower and this is Y/N. I assume you know who I am?”

The journalist stopped a few feet away from Zach. He was dripping with sweat, but still had the energy to offer a cocky smirk. He glanced in your direction and arched an eyebrow.

“The investigative duo. Where’s Hansen? Isn’t he usually your partner?”

“I read your article this morning. It was very interesting,” Zach said.

“Thanks. What part did you enjoy the most?”

“I thought it was very well researched. You even knew where the recent evidence was being stored. That was a very… interesting… detail to include in the article.”

Peter shrugged. “I take pride in my work.”

“The other little thing that jumped out and grabbed me was about the evidence collected in the Nguyen case twenty years ago. Your source criticized the chain of custody related to Shun Nguyen’s cell phone. That was extremely specific.”

Shaw’s grin turned from smug to sly. “I always make sure my sources have a keen eye for detail. Now if you’ll excuse me…”

“One more thing. The criticism you leveled at the State Police for handling the digital evidence from that cell phone? Well, it went over my head, but I’ve got a guy who’s a genius with that kind of thing. When I showed him the article he said you’d need to consult with an expert in digital forensics to break down those kinds of technical concepts as clearly as you did.”

“Actually, I’m just that good,” Peter said, crossing his arms.

“You have a degree in English and absolutely no background in tech. You’re not that good… but I believe your source is. The level of insight they gave you left their fingerprints all over that article, Shaw. Your man’s days are numbered. If you were as good as you think you are, his head wouldn’t be heading for the chopping block.”

The journalist snorted. “Do you run, Mr. Hightower?”

“Only when someone’s shooting at me. Why?”

“Just wondering if you get any other forms of exercise, besides jumping to conclusions.”

“It’s more of a step-by-step chain of logic that links together quite nicely. You really are a good writer, Shaw - very organized. That made it much easier to fill in the blanks. Does the name Leo McKenzie ring a bell?”

The blood drained from Shaw’s face, turning his lips white. Zach grinned.

“Good talking to you, Pete. Thanks for your time! Come on, Princess, let’s go.”

“You’re way off base, Hightower,” he called after you.

Zach gave him a cheerful wave. “Hey, Pete, since you’ve undoubtedly got my number, why don’t you give me a call next time you need a source? I can teach you how to cover your tracks so you don’t keep burning through informants.”

Then he lengthened his stride, forcing you into a jog as you tried to keep up. Once you were in the privacy of his vehicle, you gaped at him.

“Are you crazy? Did you just invite that sleazebag to call you?”

“Sure. He’s made more progress on this case than anyone else. We can’t ignore that.”

“How did you know who his source was? Did you guess?”

“Deduction isn’t guessing and that look on his face was all the confirmation I needed.”

“We should tell Detective Roth.”

“No. Let him figure it out on his own. He won’t believe anything we tell him at the moment.”

“But the security of the investigation is at stake!”

“Not for long. Shaw will contact his source and alert them that we’re onto them. I want to give Detective Roth the chance to redeem himself. Also, if he can’t find a mole in his own department, I’m not sure I want to work with him.”

“Right. Hey, where are we going?”

Zach turned onto an unfamiliar exit, one that headed away from his office.

“I’ve got to make another stop. Don’t worry, it won’t take long.”

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Elliot drummed his fingers on the steering wheel. "You really freaked him out."

"Mmmhh."

"He's going to send those drugs up in flames."

The insight was spot on. Deputy Russell’s wavering commitment to the sale was becoming more evident as dawn broke. He had raced back to the security of the Sheriff’s Offices after meeting with “the Canadians” and spent the rest of the night holed up there. Through the front window, Lloyd watched his shadow move behind the blinds.

The silhouette moved from left to right, and then crossed back again, from right to left. Russell was already a paranoid bastard and introducing a real threat to his life may have been a step too far. His restless actions raised a red flag in Lloyd’s assessment of the situation. Watching him through binoculars from their high vantage point in the parking lot of the White Rivers campsite, Lloyd decided it was time to ease the pressure and give Russell an escape hatch.

He was too spooked to hand the drugs over directly to the Canadians. After the ring of fire incident Russell was probably more likely to shoot Lloyd if he ever saw him again instead of cooperating with him.

“We’re going to plan B,” Lloyd said. “Give me a burner phone.”

He held out a hand and Elliot pressed a device into his palm. Lloyd dialed and watched through the binoculars as the blinds of the Sheriff’s office raised. He couldn’t see anyone, but he knew Russell was somewhere inside.

The call connected.

“Hello? Who is this?”

Lloyd spoke hoarsely. “Hello. Deputy Luke Russell?”

“This is he.” Russell sounded suspicious.

"This is Agent Ambrosio of the ATF. Do you have a moment to speak with me? Somewhere private would be best if possible."

"Yeah, yeah. I can do that," Russell said.

There was feedback as he moved, the the sound of a door closing. He must have gone to his office.

“Okay. I can talk now.”

"Russell, I'm calling about your boss, Sheriff Holbrook. Are you aware of the case against him?"

"Uh… you mean that thing from last year?"

"Eighteen months ago," Lloyd clarified. "The federal investigation into Holbrook's involvement with the drug trade has continued, which is why I'm reaching out. We need your cooperation."

"What can I do to help you, agent?”

"We have everything that we need to make an arrest. This is a courtesy call, Deputy. We're moving on him tomorrow morning. Do you understand?"

"Oh… Wow… Okay, is there anything I can do?" Russell asked.

"We're still organizing things. Holbrook is constantly armed, and we're aware of how high-risk this operation will be. I’d be more comfortable with the situation I’m sending my men into if we had your cooperation.”

“Absolutely. Whatever you need, sir.”

Lloyd’s mouth curved into a smile. Pushing too hard may have been the right play after all. His prey had just swallowed the bait without noticing the hook that pierced his lip along with it.

Game. Set. Match.

All that was left to do was reel in his catch.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Next - Part XVI

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readnburied · 3 months

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24 Books I want to Read in 2024

This is another post that should’ve made its way to you sooner rather than later. But it’s still the first month of the year, so I think I’m not too late in sharing with you all the 24 books I want to read in 2024. Please keep in mind that this is by no means an exhaustive list because I want to read a lot more than these 24 books. So without any further ado here’s a list of them.

1. Thirteen Rising by Romina Russell

Not only do I love this series as a whole but I really want to know how it’ll end and this is the last book so I’ll finally know.

2. The House of Hades by Rick Riordan

Everybody loves books by Rick Riordan just like me so my goal—along with many others’—is to read all the books by him and it includes this one.

3. The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larson

The first book blew my mind and that’s why I’m eager to know what’ll happen next in the series.

4. Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

I’ve heard a lot about his book and I do love books by Leigh Bardugo so I’m eager to read this one.

5. White is for Magic by Laurie Faria Stolarz

It feels like forever since I read the first book in this series and I really want a chance to read the second book because this series is interesting.

6. Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin

Every year I tell myself I’ll read this book and every year I don’t. But I want to change that this year and finally read it.

7. Jade War by Fonda Lee

I read the first book and found it really heavy and kind of scary for myself. However, I do want to know what happens next and I hope I can do it.

8. Forest of a Thousand Lanterns by Julie C. Dao

I started reading this book but I just wasn’t able to give it proper attention and so I want to try again and read this book.

9. Red Sister by Mark Lawrence

This is another book which deserves a better treatment than what I was initially giving it, so I hope I’m able to give it proper time and attention this time.

10. Psychos by Sheridan Anne

I love the title of this book and that’s the main reason why I want to read this book, and I hope I enjoy it.

11. Wyntertide by Andrew Caldecott

I read the first book and found it weird but intriguing and that kind of urged me to give the second book a chance.

12. Scare Crow by Julie Hockley

I think I mainly want to read this because I want to make progress on the series and I’m certain I need to revise the content of book 1 before I do.

13. Blood Infernal by James Rollins

This is the last book in this super interesting series and I’m eager to see how it all ends and what happens to the main characters.

14. How to Hang a Witch by Adriana Mather

Since I love the first series I read by this author I’ve made it a mission to read all her books and that’s why I want to give this book a read.

15. The Orphan of Cemetery Hill by Hester Fox

This is another author I aim to read every book of and this will be my second book from this author. I just love gothic stories.

16. As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson

This is a pretty famous series and I’m eager to read the last book and finish it and I’m hearing a lot about how it’ll make you cry. So let’s see.

17. A Portrait of Loyalty by Roseanna M. White

The first two books in this series are downright adorable and I know the third book would be as well, so I’m eager to read this book.

18. Deadly Little Scandals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

I’ve been trying to get to this book for a really long time and I just hope 2024 is the year and I can read it.

19. Break Us by Jennifer Brown

This series is one my favorites and of course I’m looking forward to reading the last book and reaching the conclusion.

20. Every Gift a Curse by Caroline O’Donoghue

The main theme of this series is what I love about it and that’s why I’m looking forward to reading the last book and finishing this series.

21. Foul Lady Fortune by Chloe Gong

The whole world in this series feels so real and unique at the same time that I can’t help but want to read this book.

22. The Shadow Cabinet by Juno Dawson

Considering the crazy cliffhanger of the first book, it’s obvious I want to read this book the first chance I get.

23. The Ballad of Never After by Stephanie Garber

I don’t know about the female protagonist, but I love the Prince of Hearts and I want to know what happens to him in this book.

24. Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano

I loved the first series I read by this author and so I want to read all their books and that’s why I’m eager to get to this series.

And these are the 24 books I’m eager to get to in 2024. I hope I can read them all and so many more in this year. Let me know what are your anticipated reads for 2024 and if you’re planning to read any of the books on this list.

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roselyn-writing · 2 years

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When a rose turns black chapter 6

Hello people!, It’s been a while since i wrote a chapter this long! Anyway i hope you enjoy and stay tune for future updates! ;)

“A meeting before the calamity”

In a very large golden decorated hall, A man stood in the centre. He is meditating in a lotus position. He was interrupted by the coming of another person.

“Sire Aham.”A man with a thick British accent called, bowing respectfully to him.

“Yes, Sire Kilam?” The Man replied, While looking at him.

“Sire Aham it's the sorcerers again,” Kilam answered him. His face is expressionless.

“What of then, Sire Kilam?” Aham Asked, Facing the man.

“They are plotting something against us, It must be bad,” Kilam replied to Him.

“And what of Sire Russell?” Aham ponders at that. Aham quickly got up from the ground, he quickly fixes his clothes.

“He is on his way to Virginia,” Kilam answered him.

“Sire Aham!” Another man called.

“Yes, Sire Noah?” He muttered, looking at the man who called him.

“Sire Aham! King John III is coming.” Noah says, he took a moment to breathe.

“Really? How far along is he from Virginia?” Aham asks. Thinking of the two tasks at hand Right now.

“Two days from here” Noah replied, feeling a bit tensed because of the news. Of the new proclaimed King.

“Sire Kilam Please inform the King to prepare a proper welcoming to the “King”,” Aham responded, then he looks to Noah. ”and Sire Noah come with me to discuss the matter of the sorcerers” Sire Aham suggested

“Yes, Sire Aham” Kilam uttered then left to do his task, while Noah Goes with Aham to Discuss the matter. And what to do.

“So.. any suggestions?” Russell says, looking at all the superiors in the meeting hall.

“The sorcerers are looking for a way to take the cursed book. There is a suggestion, Sire Russell.” Mervyn Uttered while clenching his hands together upon the table.

“And what is it, Sire Mervyn?” Malcolm Says.

“Easy. Guard the halls with Guards, No not just any Guards. But Guards with anti-magic armors.” Mervyn replied.

“That is a good idea, But Sire Mervyn we do not have the time to craft anti-magic armor.” Sire Aham uttered.

“There is. The Sylvans. The Guardians of the forest.” Russell suggests

“I do not think that the Sylvans have the time to face mortals' problems.” Sire Aham added while crossing his arms.

“Then what about Orm?” Wilbur replied,” Orm? Orm the great forger?” Norman repeated

“Yes Orm the Great forger” Sire Aham replied

“I will ask Sire Orm, I know that he will not refuse us,” Millard suggests

“He will not refuse us, He must not!” Russell growled Anger defined in his tone

“Calm down Sire Russell anger is useless.” Sire Aham told him.” I pray the remained one to guide us to a solution, I know that the great remained one will not forsake us” Aham added

“Praise the remained one.” All in the hall said in union.

“Blasted, Those sorcerers. Nothing good comes from them” Russell Cursed, as he angrily slammed his hand on the table.

In a place that reeks of foul deeds and stenches alike. A demon smiles in pure happiness and mockery at the Sorcerers and mages.

“Ah!, That is Interesting, I hope their plans are thwarted.” Raquol sneered at the sorcerers. Raquol hated them to the bone. If there is anything Raquol hates other than Lucifer. It's the sorcerers and those lowly humans who beg the demons for help.

“I hate them so much, I wish that they disappear from the face of the universe” Raquol growls.

“But alas. They are Lucifer's favourite pets.” Raquol muttered in annoyance.”But soon, I’ll plot my revenge against Lucifer and those sorcerers” He promised. Raquol realized that he needs time to do so.

“But certainly not today,” He uttered, annoyed

Donovan is a great sorcerer, His birth alone is something to be explained. He is a hybrid between a Human and a Hudaronic, He is also a great huge beast that resembles a triceratops head and size. He is known as the “Master of evil”. He is the enemy to a lot of people mostly the Royal monarchs of Morbidia, And also to sorcerers.

He once cursed the Queen of Morbidia with a sleeping curse. But she woke up because of King William's kiss of “true love”. After the Queen found out about this she paid a female assassin to kill him. The female assassin managed to let Donovan fall in love with her. She tried to slit his throat but he managed to survive by turning into an hudranoic beast called “Antaris” then he ate her for dinner.

The news quickly reported to the Queen about the female assassin's death and the whole mission is but a failure she paid with her life. The Queen is burning with anger and hatred for Donovan. This unearthly beast and mongrel. She fears for herself, Her daughter, and her husband. The last thing she fears for is her people. She doesn’t care about them at all even if Donovan ate them or cursed them.

Donovan on the other hand promised himself to never be fooled by humans or fall in love with them. He had learnt the hard way That trust is earned not given easily. His hudranoic nature saved him from certain death.He’s thankful for it, He concluded that life is full of experience. And he must live it all.

Nothing can describe how awful a disgusting feeling is for the likes of Ashure. He doesn’t care about wasting lives and efforts. The only thing he cares about is his goal to be achieved. And that’s all he cares about it.

“I don’t care about the loss of children, on the contrary, I hate them.” Ashure cruelly confessed

Sadly there are many sorcerers, mages, and also normal people like Ashure. Cruelty is in their veins.

It’s safe to say that there are two types of people one’s that good and one’s that bad.

It's like two sides To one world.

“I don’t care about people's feelings, I killed my father and I didn’t care about it, Why would I care for people?” Ashure cruelly added.

And Cruelty is one of the main reasons for his demise.

“It's time,” An eerie voice spoke to him,” It is Indeed”

It’s one of these normal and lovely days for the Aepel family. It’s also a morning lovely day to wake up and do the daily routine.

Hadi Aepel wakes up to eat breakfast and do his daily routine stuff.

“Good morning honey!” Farrah greets him

“Morning beautiful~” he greets back

“I heard that Nora is giving birth today. I will go to her after I make breakfast!” she said. She finished the breakfast and then put it on the table. She and Hadi sat on the seats to eat.

“Oh, Honey that’s so kind of you to take care of her” Hadi muttered, after taking a spoonful of food into his mouth.,

“Is there anything you want? My dear husband” she uttered. Smiling to him. as she lovingly side-hugging him.

“No honey I don’t want anything I just wanted you to be safe. Be careful honey.” Hadi says.

“Okay then. I will be careful, Dear husband” Farrah replied, smiling at him

After that, Massoud knocks on the door. He completely startled them.

“Dear brother, what’s wrong?” Hadi asked, startled because of his brother’s sudden knocks.

“No, No nothing is wrong!” He apologized by raising his hands while giggling at their reaction.

“So what is it, Why did you come Massoud?” He asked his brother

“Mister Peitz and Mister Salem ask if you’re coming today for the work, You know,” Massoud replied.

“Oh, Of course, I'm coming to work today,” Hadi uttered back.

“Okay then! I will inform them that you’re coming!” Massoud muttered but before he left

“I can’t go with you brother, My wife is giving birth today.” He apologized.

“No worries at all brother,” Hadi said to him.

After Hadi finished eating breakfast, He left to work. And Farrah goes to Baby Aliyaa to feed her then she hands her to her Grandmother Salwa.

Farrah gently and carefully carries Aliyaa, Aliyaa is still sleeping peacefully on the cot bed. Farrah didn’t want to wake her up so she hastily and gently carries her on her shoulder.

Salwa is waiting patiently for Farrah to come with baby Aliyaa, Moments pass by and she comes with Aliyaa, She gently handed Aliyaa to her grandmother,

“Did you feed her Farrah?” Salwa questioned, as she gently carries Aliyaa.

“No, But I brought the milk bottle with me!” Farrah responded, As she left to fetch the bottle

“Good, Please hurry, my dear,” Salwa murmured.

“Okay!” Farrah replied. while fetching the bottle

Back to the superior’s hall. Every known superior

in Virginia is there.

“So. Is there something from Sire Ormm?” Sire Aham Spoke.

“Not yet,” Millard declared,

“I say we fight back! We will fight them to the bone! We are superiors we do not cower from mere sorcerers!” Sire Russell snapped, As he clutched the fiery swords,” I do not care I have a family to protect and care for!” He angrily Raised his swords, Upon Clutching the swords the holy fire engulfed him, Changing his citizen clothing to his Light one’s armor.

“We are the superiors! We do not run from danger, We fight it to the bone!” Sire Russell added, as his white wings spread out of his shoulders. The other superiors were moved by this and they all joined him.

Sire Aham calmly crosses his arms, as he carefully observes the scene in front of him.

He knows that it's foolish to take action unprepared. But there is nothing to do now as most of the superiors are swayed to Russell's side.

“Sire Russell, Please do not take action unprepared. It’s unwise!” Sire Aham cautioned.

“Sire Aham, You know that we are much stronger than them, Then why waste time making plans?” Russell maintained his anger.

“It's important to observe everything before reacting.” Sire Aham calmly retorts

Russell didn’t reply, In fact, He knows that sire Aham is right, and He is always right, So Russell took only a moment to breathe and clears his mind of negativity and anger.

It’s time. To react before the calamity,”

@lorabeyc @loryeenb @loryeen @mollyb9 @florafoom @alexapenz @lisadelise @kyd35 @melissalix @noelle9 @monapome @huepazu

#wartb #Aliyaa Aepel #Sire Aham #Kilam Bornev #Russell Tyrien #Millard of Virginia #Wilbur #Norman #Hadi Aepel #Farrah Aepel #Salma Aepel #Massoud Aepel #Donovan Master of evil #Donovan R’aush #Ashure ro’bey #wartb season 1 #King John III #King of Virginia #when a rose turns black

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shirkers2018dirsanditan · 1 year

Note

the denver hate is so real... that team is so rancid there's a legend that their mascot's statue at the denver airport killed its designer!

i have some unanswered football asks that i obviously won’t answer for the time being and i know the vibe of this ask was far more lighthearted than is appropriate now. and while i am interested in this story about the mascot statue, i literally saw this ask and thought about a few weeks ago when russell wilson tried to make a dive for the end zone and hit his head on the turf instead and the camera zoomed in on him and he looked completely out of it and then he struggled to stand up on his own. and it is just like…..obviously this is a sport and not summer camp and players can be criticized for their performances and team rivalries are what makes it fun, but the way that commentators and fans treat these athletes when we know that the risks they are taking is literally heinous.

and no, these players aren’t selfless. i’m not saying that. they are playing because they want to win. they want a bigger paycheck and they want rings and they want to be put among the greats in their sport. of course. it’s professional sports; they aren’t gladiators and they aren’t slaves. but when you see these players literally give themselves concussions trying to score and you turn around and directly slander them it gives the impression that you do not see them as people. and when announcers and commentators do that it’s even more ridiculous because many of them are themselves former players….

there is a minimum level of respect required that is not given, especially for black players and especially for black quarterbacks. and there is an apathy toward protecting these players the same way they do white players like tom brady or aaron rodgers. they literally do not call defensive fouls on tackles of black and minoritized QBs/players in general the same way they do white players, and they do not call fouls the same for players of any race that have less recognition, and certainly not rookies. that kind of hierarchy needs to he abolished when it is a matter of basic safety…

#sorry this isn’t really relevant to your ask but it was bothering me #anon

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abyss-boys · 1 year

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WIP Introduction: In Memory of US

↳˗ˏˋ YA

↳˗ˏˋ LGBT, POC, disabled, mentally ill characters

↳˗ˏˋ Psychological Thriller

↳˗ˏˋ First draft

↳˗ˏˋ Third person, past tense

↳˗ˏˋ Missing persons, unreality, false memories, disappearances

↳˗ˏˋSummaryˊˎ˗ ↴

The ultimate social paralysis of off-the-map towns creates an atmosphere of familiarity and safety for the ages-old residents, those whose families witnessed the first dirt roads that carved through the once much denser forest. The streets, lamp-less and haunted in the night, have been memorized and seldom see confused tourists. These homes are riddled with old wood and cryptic small-town stories. The roads themselves are paved with the hard work of their native people. Places like this, they resist change. All here must adhere to the same pattern of life that has played out in these homes for generations before them.

But what happens when you defy the path laid out before you? Anboro doesn’t take kindly to change, and Carmen, Connor, and Russel soon find out what happens when you become strange to a town of stagnation.

(Rest of summary and characters below the cut)

Weeks after their high school graduation, they notice a missing neighbor, a kid around their age. They approach the family of this missing boy, but when our three protagonists sneak his name, a look of confusion spreads over the family’s faces. No such boy had ever existed.

Suspecting foul play, these three friends do their own research into the disappearance. But soon they find out that no one can remember the missing boy. The town swallowed him.

Not long after, another goes missing, a girl who worked alongside Russel in the town’s local grocery store. When he checks the girl’s schedule to see if today was her day off, he finds that her name is missing from the rosters. She, too, had been swallowed into obscurity.

And after her, the cycle continued. Every week or so, someone else would disappear, but the only ones who remembered them were Carmen, Connor, and Russel. Even the pictures that once displayed the faces of their friends and peers were missing the faces of those lost to memory. One family dwindled one by one, losing kids, losing a husband, and finally, losing the mother, and once she had stepped into the past, the house was replaced with trees and flowers, with no record that it ever existed.

Scared, confused, and wondering if they would be next, three young adults must try to figure out where their townsfolk had disappeared to, and if they can stop the spread of these losses. Can they find the missing people? Can they stop the disappearances? Or will they be eaten away by the town like everyone else?

↳˗ˏˋCharactersˊˎ˗ ↴

↳˗ˏˋ RUSSEL POOLE ˊˎ˗

↳˗ˏˋ 17, He/They, Cis, Gay

↳˗ˏˋ Uses a walking cane

↳˗ˏˋ Aspires to live by the ocean and be a marine biologist

↳˗ˏˋ Has two younger sisters, 8 and 13

↳˗ˏˋ CONNOR PARRISH ˊˎ˗

↳˗ˏˋ 19, He/Him, Trans, Straight

↳˗ˏˋ Autistic, BPD

↳˗ˏˋ Unsure of his aspirations, so he’s searching for his purpose while spending time with his friends

↳˗ˏˋ Has a younger brother, 3

↳˗ˏˋ CARMEN WARD ˊˎ˗

↳˗ˏˋ 18, She/It, Trans, Bisexual

↳˗ˏˋ Needs hearing aids, uses ASL

↳˗ˏˋ Aspires to be a tattoo artist

↳˗ˏˋ Only child

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donzoh · 1 year

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Formula 1 Intro 1 by a nigga name zoH

Sadly it has been more than a month since the start of the Formula 1 season and honestly the anticipation was killing me. (how we already in April) Only because my knowledge of the sport grew more and more each year. Which grew more interest, a weird burning desire if you will for me to engulf myself in this fast pace, quick thinking, sexy of a sport. Which has multiple drama on and off the track. Pushing a “road rocket” to its absolute limit to make sure you'll get every tenth of a second faster than your opponent.

Diving deeper into this dangerous sport that can make people question its integrity the further you dig, the scandals ouf. Does that go for almost any sport. Theirs always something to question, why is it like that? Like in basketball theirs the refs giving out technical fouls left snd right. In baseball the umps will kick you out if you so much as yell at them. In football the refs will throw a flag if you look at another player wrong or when a defender touches the Quarterback, BOOM flag. Okay I'm exaggerating a bit, but if you watch one of them sports you'll notice the amount of bullshit that goes on. In F1 theirs the FIA and race Stewarts that just be doing shit. Literally doing shit.

I shouldnt give up on this little dream I have. Yes i’d be traveling overseas to foreign countries I have never been in, or should trust. The sport itself bring adrenaline and other toxic chemicals that would scare the normal sport viewer away. Fast cars and big money isn’t just the beauty of it. The tracks, technology, tactics, techniques, communication, the drivers are aggressive, fearless, and have a killer instinct to be number one. The supreme confidence to just be in that car. Where you have to shift your whole body weight to press on the breaks in order to stop the craft (car). Theirs only 20 people a year whom get to drive the fastest land vehicles on earth. Trying to interpret F1 language to regular language is a challenge I'm willing to accept.

The concept of running a F1 team can't be done by a normal human. You cant be a sane person doing this sport. Why? Well to be completely honest you kind of have to be crazy to watch or even be in this kind of sport. A lot of backstabbing goes on. A lot of accusations without evidence. So much finger pointing, anger/hate. So why watch this toxic sport if you haven't yet? A few things may interest you like the science. If you like technology, aerodynamics, aesthetic environments/cities you can look at. Theirs 22 places around the world they travel and capture the best scenes with the most anticipated Vegas GP late this year.

I will be focusing on Lando Noris from McLaren. Alex Albon in the Williams. And George Russell from Mercedes. Maybe the teammates too. All I know is, it demands a lot. One needs to have mental toughness and also being at top physical shape. If everyone trying to get ahead of everyone else. Even a teammate. Who won't care about your feelings. The ego. To be number one. Thiers no other choice. Pure cut throat. Fucking Wild EY!

#lando norris #george russell #alex albon #f1 fandom #f1 2023 #f1

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containatrocity · 1 year

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THE PARIAH: RUSTY CRAVEN

The road outside my house is paved with good intentions. Hired a construction crew 'cause it's hell on the engine.

"I'm Rusty Craven, I'm 35 years old, and I'm the Head Forest Ranger for Huntsville. I have no children of my own, but am raising my niece Genesis Boone after the death of her parents in 2011, as we're each other's only remaining family. I was a soldier in the US military up until my return to Huntsville, and it was in the military where I became friends with Duck Romero, who was my commanding officer. I'm a born Huntsville native, but I was disowned by my family at 17 years old and sent to military school upon coming out as Gay. My husband Lee and I are well liked by the people of the town, and I am ambivalent toward the commune. My most prevalent vice is lingering on my past."

Name: Peter Russell "Rusty" Craven (Nee Boone)

Aliases: Rus, Rusty, Russ, Uncle Rusty, Ranger Craven, Pete/Petey (Not preferred), Junior (He'll kill you.)

Age: 35 (September 27th) [Libra]

Sexuality/Gender: Gay Cis Male [He/Him]

Personality: There's not a soul in Huntsville with a foul word to say about Russ Craven. A loving man with a big heart and an open-door policy for anyone who might need a shoulder to cry on, or even a warm dinner and a spare bed to sleep in, Rusty would give the shirt off his back to lighten the weight on another's shoulders. A responsible, bright man, he's easily flustered when it comes to anything romantic or sexual, coloring stark red in the face and stammering his way out of the conversation as quickly as possible. Despite his pleasant demeanor, there's a distinct sadness still lingering within him, the loss of his husband six years ago still too fresh to cope with some nights, and the knowledge that had they never returned, he may be alive haunting his quiet hours. He puts a happy face on to protect the people that matter to him, and to most of the younger kids around Huntsville, "Uncle Rusty" is less a statement of his relation to them, and more of their clear trust and affection for the man.

Occupation: Head Ranger of the Monongahela Parks and Game Forest Rangers. One of few remaining.

Affiliations: The Townsfolk of Huntsville, The US Military (veteran), Monongahela Parks and Game.

Scent Profile: Dirt and diesel, something faintly spicy, earthy, meaty like a carefully cooked, well rounded dinner. Pine and maple sap as well as a clinging sweetness from a cologne a touch more feminine than one would assume of Rusty's appearance, and cigarette smoke, a vice he falls victim to more often than he cares to admit.

Aesthetic: A crowded but clean kitchen, something that smells like home cooking away on the stove. An old tube TV quietly playing reruns of a sitcom from the 90s while you slowly drift off to sleep on the couch- the knowledge you'll wake up in your own bed, no matter how big you get. Carefully polished old leather boots starting to show their age, military fatigues worked into general day to day wear, a pride in who he once was, and who he's become. Children's detangling hair spray and multicolored hair ties and beads alongside a beard trimmer and aftershave in the bathroom, framed drawings and old photos of people long since dead dotting hallway walls.

So hum hallelujah, just off the key of reason- I thought I loved you, it was just how you looked in the light.

CHAPTER ONE: LIFE IN HUNTSVILLE POST PARADOX.

Serving now as the head of the ranger team tied to the local forest, Rusty, Duck, and their remaining skeleton crew of rangers serve largely as protection and surveillance for those out on hunting trips to provide food and supplies to the town. He spends a number of nights in the primary ranger station, tracking the movements of ghosts and radioing to other watch points- which has led to him being absent from home, for a number of overnights. With Sissy growing into her own as an adult, Rusty's found himself in a fugue state, the knowledge that he's been single for over half a decade made all the more present with his niece's interest in romance of her own becoming more pressing. He's well aware that the way he lingers on his past is unhealthy- there's no changing where he is now, Huntsville, with Lee long gone. He can put the ache to the side most days, focusing on looking after the people of the town and those who rely on him, often offering up space at the old Boone residence for Sissy's friends and anyone needing time away from their own troubles and a home-cooked meal.

He's nervous and careful, meeting new people, burned from his past and still in the grasp of a long-term loss of his faith, he desperately wants to reach out and have more friends his own age than simply Duck, and perhaps find love again, but options are slim in Huntsville, and love opens him up to sorrow once more, something he's witnessed first hand in the aftermath of Duck's wife dying. He tries his best to find comfort in the strange monotony they've managed to put together in their survival, hunting, cooking, rationing, and scraping by, but some part of him still wants to seek something better- to die lonely in his 30s had never been the plan- it just seems to be his fate, at this rate.

#huntsvilleintro #r.threads #r.bio #r.musings #r.aesthetic #r.headcanons #Beloved Pariah;

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anaiazien · 2 months

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LA Clippers vs Golden State Warriors Game Player Stats

"Clippers vs Warriors in Thrilling Showdown"

Just before the All-Star break, the LA Clippers pulled off an incredible comeback to secure a big win over the Golden State Warriors in an exciting game. The Clippers guard Russell Westbrook's outstanding effort in the last quarter, when he displayed his flexibility and resolve, was crucial to the team's comeback .

The most crucial missed call occurred in the waning seconds when James Harden, anticipating an intentional foul from the Warriors, initiated his shooting motion before the contact from Wiggins.

Although this scenario typically results in a foul being called on the floor, a review by the NBA determined that Harden had commenced his shooting motion before the contact, vindicating the officials.

Despite the missed calls, the Clippers secured a solid win against the Warriors. Clippers' head coach Ty Lue, however, faced ejection during the game, leading assistant coach Dan Craig to take over coaching duties in the final minutes.

The team displayed resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity, a testament to their depth and versatility.

Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images. Pictured: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors

Even more surprisingly, the Clippers won at Golden State despite the three calls that went against the Warriors. In addition to putting on a strong game without star player Kawhi Leonard, the Clippers' ability to overcome officiating issues demonstrated their fortitude and will.

In the spirit of transparency, the NBA also acknowledged three incorrect calls that nmaintain composure under pressure.egatively impacted the Clippers during the game. Despite these errors, the Clippers managed to secure the win, highlighting their ability to navigate challenges and pressure.

In a gut-wrenching turn of events the Golden State Warriors suffered yet another late-game collapse, falling 130-125 to the LA Clippers. Despite a commanding lead for the first three quarters, the Warriors couldn't hold on, putting an end to their recent win streak.

As fans grapple with mixed emotions over the team's improved performance, it's time to assess individual player performances with a critical eye.

Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles the ball during the game against the LA Clippers

The Warriors showcased a commendable defensive effort in the early stages of the game, controlling the tempo and building an 11-point lead to start the fourth quarter. The first three quarters saw solid contributions from key players, creating a sense of optimism among fans.

However, the inability to maintain this level of play in the final stretch proved costly. Whether the most recent meltdown is more tolerable or unpleasant is a matter of opinion and relies on several factors.

Supporters must make up their minds about the situation, divided as they are between admiring the team's clippers vs warriors general progress and being angry at seeing another collapse.

Being a committed fan is an emotional rollercoaster, and the Warriors' wild performance further heightens that experience.

Russell Westbrook, often known for his scoring prowess, demonstrated his all-around capabilities in the fourth quarter against the Warriors.

Despite a slow start from the field, Westbrook erupted with 10 crucial points, adding 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, and multiple hustle plays to fuel the comeback of Clippers vs Warriors.

Clippers guard Russell Westbrook (0) shoots against Golden State Warriors guard Ty Jerome, left, and forward Jonathan Kuminga during the first half on Thursday in San Francisco.

Westbrook's ability to impact winning after a slow start has been a recurring theme throughout the season. His resilience and commitment to contributing in various facets of the game have proven invaluable for the Clippers, providing a stabilizing force when the team needs it most.

The comeback victory against the Warriors serves as a significant momentum-builder for the Clippers as they head into the All-Star break. Westbrook's performance not only secured the win but also showcased the importance of a well-rounded approach to the game.

Russell Westbrook's all-around impact and resilience were on full display in the comeback win of Clippers vs Warriors.

As the team enters the All-Star break with newfound momentum, Westbrook's ability to influence the game beyond scoring serves as a testament to his versatility and dedication to securing victories for the Clippers.-Skynews

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nityarawal · 6 months

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Maye-

You know what would be utterly noble? If you took Nonce Charles place due to starter wife murder in conjunction w/ Trumpleberry charges tomorrow.

Praying Ivana whistleblows on foul play for her mom too.

Can you help?

Meg-xit went through it. I sang her home one night- so worried for them in 2019 whilst messaging Josh Radnor.

Singers are most joyful creators. Do you sing? I'll write a song for you Queen Mother. My Patty June- my x's mom- Patricia Jones Rawal Campbell was Divine Too.

Shame she was pawned in ww3. She looked like Elizabeth Taylor.

If she's alive please ask her to paint you & Elon, X & harems.

She does best Elizabethan & Guru's miniatures!

Her website hacked now by her HP boytoy pervert Keith Campbell. Madaboutmermaids.com

Maybe Elon's hackers can find remnants of her on madaboutmermaids.com & whales nursing homes?

I've looked and looked.

I haven't seen her since 2012 wars begun.

It broke my heart. She said she loved me even more than her beloved Pravin- Sunil's dad- who was passion of her life.

Cambell's and gross boys clubs have really targeted our lineage and Prodigy. This War On genius, Wombs, drugs, kids, food & sex needs to stop. Agreed enlightened mommy?(: peace out. Only way. Everyone wants to triangulate us into drama. Sending all love & prayers for a succesful day. My mother in law would send reiki if she could hear us now. Believe me. She's a girl's girl through and through like me.

Probably the "+" old fashioned prudes in LGBTQ. Lol AI prudence council arrived!!!

Prayers!

My FIL Pravin was murdered in a nursing home there by my x's half sister Ren too.

She's attacking Russel Brand likely too- taught at his school.

Renuka Abraham's.

She was visiting us at Encinitasbeachhome.com when x went haywire.

Cambridge spies made him surrender me. He was madly in love for 18.5 years.

They vasectomied him. For sex workers.

Circumcision too?

That's very mean to do adults!

My son wasn't done was he? Yours?

Your Grand Kids?

Stop this awful genocide.

Our boys can't make love with handicapped penusis- Foreskin represents heart Chakra in Taoism.

Add this important convo to peace tea. Putin wants to chemically castrate pedos! Avert the danger and offer this viable solution please.

Don't Hurt Our baby boys & girls with war on breeders.

Middle East is incorrigible with Apartheid there and here!

"Peacing out!" Is only option.

Checkmate and let's party! Xoxo

All love,

Nitya

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f1 · 10 months

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Hungarian Grand Prix: Sergio Perez crashes on first lap of practice

Red Bull's Sergio Perez has failed to qualify in the top 10 for five races in a row Red Bull's Sergio Perez crashed on his very first lap of practice at the Hungarian Grand Prix. The Mexican put his outside wheels on the grass when turning into the Turn Five hairpin and spun into the wall. Perez's error prevented the other drivers from getting any dry running as rain started to fall during the red-flag period called to recover the damaged Red Bull. Mercedes' George Russell was fastest with McLaren's Oscar Piastri in second. Fernando Alonso had been fastest in the Aston Martin before pitting a few minutes before the end of the session with the track conditions still improving. Only 11 drivers set lap times, and championship leader Max Verstappen and Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton were not among them. Perez's crash has increased the pressure on him after a difficult run in which he has failed to qualify in the top 10 for five consecutive races. His remarks over the radio immediately after the crash made it clear that he understood the potential seriousness of the error. "I can't believe this," Perez said. Team principal Christian Horner said: "He just misjudged it. It was just a mistake. You could hear the frustration in his voice." Perez's early-season ambition of challenging team-mate Verstappen for the championship has collapsed as his season has imploded following a series of errors. At the same time, former Red Bull driver Daniel Ricciardo, who won seven races for the team from 2014-18, has returned to the grid as a replacement at their second team Alpha Tauri for Nyck de Vries, who was fired last week. Ricciardo has said his dream is to go well enough in the Alpha Tauri to again earn a seat at Red Bull. Perez, who has a Red Bull contract for 2024, said on Thursday that Ricciardo's return "doesn't change anything" for him, insisting that his future was "in my hands". Horner has said that he believed Perez's problem was that he had been putting too much pressure on himself, and added after the British Grand Prix that Perez "just needs a clean weekend". That hope is already forlorn in Hungary, although it may well turn out that Perez is fortunate in that the weather prevented anyone else learning about their cars in dry conditions so he will not be as behind as he would have been had the session not been hit by rain. A number of drivers did go out later in the session to try their cars on intermediate tyres in the wet conditions, and Carlos Sainz caused a second red flag when he spun coming out of Turn Three. He made light contact with the wall with the rear of his car and damaged his front wing but was unable to restart himself because he was beached on the kerb. The incident damaged Sainz's front wing. Alpha Tauri's Yuki Tsunoda was another driver to fall foul of the conditions, also damaging a front wing with a spin. via BBC Sport - Formula 1 http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/

#F1 #Hungarian Grand Prix: Sergio Perez crashes on first lap of practice #Formula 1

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clementinecompendium · 11 months

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Reading June 2023

Read: The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett Unnatural Death by Dorothy L. Sayers

Reading: Discovering Your Soul Signature: A 33-Day Path to Purpose, Passion & Joy by Panache Desai Make a Name for Yourself: 8 Steps Every Woman Needs to Create a Personal Brand Strategy for Success by Robin Fisher Roffer Poemcrazy by Susan Goldsmith Wooldridge Don't Read Poetry by Stephanie Burt The Essex Serpent: A Novel by Sarah Perry The Yellow Fairy Book ed. Andrew Lang

Series / General Interest: "Alfred Hitchcock Presents: Stories..." anthologies Dorothy L. Sayers Omnibus of Crime (series) * Jack Zipes * music theory * Tintin / Hergé

To Read: The Poisoner's Handbook ed. Raymond T. Bond Hauntings: Tales of the Supernatural ed. Henry Mazzeo A Treasury of Great Mysteries ed. Howard Haycraft & John Beecroft Folklore 101: An Accessible Introduction to Folklore by Dr. Jeana Jorgensen Fairy Tales 101: An Accessible Introduction to Fairy Tales by Dr. Jeana Jorgensen Babel by R. F. Kuang Singing School by Robert Pinsky The Sober Lush by Jardine Libaire, Amanda Ward Swedish Folktales and Legends by by Lone Thygesen Blecher, George Blecher From the Forest by Sara Maitland Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari Rage Becomes Her: The Power of Women's Anger by Soraya Chemaly The Elements of Song Craft: The Contemporary Songwriter’s Usage Guide To Writing Songs That Last by Billy Seidman Foul Lady Fortune by Chloe Gong The Hunter and Other Stories by Dashiell Hammett The Nice Girl Syndrome: Stop Being Manipulated and Abused -- and Start Standing Up for Yourself by Beverly Engel The Assertiveness Guide for Women: How to Communicate Your Needs, Set Healthy Boundaries & Transform Your Relationships by Julie de Azevedo Hanks, PhD, LCSW Of Sound Mind: How Our Brain Constructs a Meaningful Sonic World by Nina Kraus You Better Be Lightning by Andrea Gibson Permission to Feel: Unlocking the Power of Emotions to Help Our Kids, Ourselves, and Our Society Thrive by Marc Brackett Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief by David Kessler The Five Invitations: Discovering What Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully by Frank Ostaseski What Happened to You?: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing by Oprah Winfrey Sensitive Is the New Strong: The Power of Empaths in an Increasingly Harsh World by Anita Moorjani Rude: Stop Being Nice and Start Being Bold by Rebecca Reid The Sound Book: The Science of the Sonic Wonders of the World by Trevor Cox The Top Five Regrets of the Dying by Bronnie Ware Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion by Jia Tolentino

Bedtime Reading: A History of Western Philosophy by Bertrand Russell The Unabridged Journals of Sylvia Plath by Sylvia Plath The French Revolution by Ian Davidson The Blue Fairy Book ed. Andrew Lang

#booklr #currently reading #to be read #tbr pile #book tumblr #library

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news4usonline · 1 year

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Clippers new acquisitions trying to find their way

LOS ANGELES (News4usonline) - The Los Angeles Clippers acquired several new players with the help of the NBA trade deadline and the buyout market. Each player the Clippers acquired were brought in to address a need on the roster. Players such as Eric Gordon, Mason Plumlee, Bones, Hyland, and Russell Westbrook have been acquired to elevate this Clippers roster and make a push for a championship run. Despite being brought in, their level of play will dictate their roles on a loaded Clippers roster.

“We’re excited to have the new guys come in… pieces that fit our team and our best players and now it is our job to put this team together, it is gonna take some time to figure out rotations, so I’m excited, but it will take time,” said Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue. Westbrook is the biggest name the Clippers added to their team. Trading away two point guards at the deadline in Reggie Jackson and John Wall, this was a glaring need for the Clippers to fill. Westbrook’s tenure with crosstown rival the Los Angeles Lakers was up and down. Eventually, Westbrook was traded to the Utah Jazz. He then bought out his contract to make himself a free agent. Paul George, one of the Clippers top stars, was the main person that pushed for the Westbrook pickup. In his first game wearing a Clippers uniform, Westbrook showed the fans and his new teammates that he was worth the pickup. Despite a thrilling game which led to a 176-175 double overtime loss to the Sacramento Kings, Westbrook played well, scoring 17 points and totaling 14 assists. “About what I imagined, that’s the reason I was high on Russ being a part of this team. What he brings, we saw flashes of it tonight,” George said. In his debut as a Clipper Westbrook looked more like his traditional self and was more comfortable playing around shooters. While his defense still could be a problem, his playmaking will help the Clippers. The game went down to the wire, and Westbrook eventually fouled out in what was a disappointing loss to the Kings. Other than his debut game, the handful of games played by Westbrook has been solid performances, he is finding a role in the starting lineup as a facilitator, but the Clippers have not fully figured it all out yet. “Find my way to be able to help other guys is something I truly embrace… all these guys here find out their spots and what they like and don’t like is gonna be a process but I am ready for the challenge,” said Westbrook. Gordon is another major acquisition the Clippers made. This is his second tenure with the team, and he has had a good journey while away. Being a heavy contributor on different teams in the past several years, Gordon is expected to bring that experience and play to the Clippers. Gordon is essentially replacing Luke Kennard that was traded from the Clippers. Gordon has better playmaking abilities than Kennard, and while he is not the same level of shooter, he is a much better all-around scorer, which adds a new threat level for the Clippers. “This is a situation that I wanted to be in and look forward to,” Gordon said. “We have a lot of talented guys and I believe I fit the mold of how they play.” While Gordon would be a sure-fire rotation player for most teams, the presence of Norman Powell, Terence Mann, and even Nic Batum from the bench could cut into playing time. Despite his talent, the Clippers are very deep, and over the past few games Gordon’s shot attempts and minutes have come down to some degree. Gordon most likely won’t fall out of the rotation, but his consistent minutes could depend on situational matchups, or even if he finds a rhythm.

Plumlee and Bones Hyland were the other two acquisitions made by the Clippers. Plumlee was a big pickup for now the Clippers have a legitimate backup center. Ivica Zubac was the only true rotational big, and he needed help. While Plumlee has some defensive limitations, he can play in situations needed for an extra big, and the pickup has already paid off for Plumlee has been much needed while Zubac has been injured coming out of the NBA All-Star break. Hyland looked like a solid acquisition, but with the addition of Westbrook, the minutes for Hyland just are not there. Hyland has seen the floor here and there, but his play time is down, and his play style is not fully required considering Mann, Powell, and Gordon can make up for it, while Westbrook is a better facilitator. With the new acquisitions going to be a big factor for the season moving forward, Clippers star Kawi Leonard agrees it could take a little time, but all they can do is keep playing, pushing for everyone to just be themselves. With the Clippers current struggles, with the season winding down and playoff positioning becoming critical, the new Clipper players and the entire roster need to find their groove. “New faces on the floor, I wouldn’t say it's a new season, but we just have to keep going and see what we can do with this new unit,” said Leonard. Read the full article

#ClipperNation #Clippers #RussellWestbook

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