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Author's Ramblings: Well, having to churn out two installments for this week has definitely turned up the pressure, so hopefully this short installment isn't too much of a disappointment. If you missed the post for Wednesday Wanderings, it was intallment #40 in this serial--please be sure to check it out, I can't fit everything in the recap! For this week, I wasn't able to flesh out all the characters as nicely as I'd hoped, but the story is of Eira and the Dark Phoenix, so that element is coming along quite nicely. There a bit of scene jumping again, as the day spent with Eira's uncle is mostly spent with the master and apprentice in different places, so hopefully that explains just a little bit. Now, since I have a hundred billion other things that I absolutely must do in addition to wrapping up my ramblings--lolz--happy reading and have a great weekend! Don't forget to leave a comment--I love the feedback! ^_^
RECAP: On Wednesday, A reluctant niece and League Master are confronted on the steps of an official League building, where the foursome have arrived in Kouraki. Deene is dispatched to see Uleah to her final destination as a messenger girl, while Eira and the DP take care of official business, where Eira must also take her basic exams. The DP seems uneasy in the city and Eira struggles with her own sense of paranoia as they leave the building to walk into a new surprise. Our heroes were then invited to the home of Eira's uncle, Garrett Omaha, where they are now.
((and because I can't resist...a subtitle))
"So," The Dark Phoenix began. "Would you mind telling me exactly why we're spending the night at your uncle's if all you wanted was lunch or dinner?"
"Not or, and. I want lunch and dinner." Eira bit her lip as they stood outside in the hallway, in front of their respective guest rooms. "And it's not like I planned for this to happen!"
"I had no idea you were so attached to your uncle."
"A-attached?" Eira stammered, a nervous laugh escaped as she rubbed her neck. "I wouldn't know about that. I just, I mean…it was complicated. I couldn't…really, hey, he invited us for…I mean, I couldn't be impolite and it's been…weeks…in the jungle and away from civilization and…I-I'm sorry. Really sorry. I didn't mean for things to turn out like this, I was just…you know. Hungry. Yeah. That's it. I was hungry and that's the most-"
"Your excuses are severely lacking."
"Never mind. It would be rude to refuse hospitality on behalf of your family, but we will not stay here any longer than lunch. There was no need for guest rooms."
"Heh…right. Uncle can be a bit…uh…" Eira put her hand on the scanner beside the door, waiting patiently while it registered her identity and admitted her. "I'll get yours…" She slung her knapsack to the floor and kicked it just inside the room. "You don't want to go through the whole setting up guest profile thingy…security's kind of ridiculous."
"Why is it ridiculous? Is it truly necessary? Is there a reason for it?"
"Er…that's…relative. It sorta runs in the family." Eira slapped her hand on the scanner beside his door. It whirred and clicked open. "There you go. We don't have to stay, we just have to…pretend."
"I see."
Why are you so nervous, apprentice?
Hey! Don't do that…at least…don't…you could warn me! And I'm not nervous! I don't know what you're talking about.
I see. Then what would you say is currently occupying the majority of your thought processes in this precise moment.
LUNCH! I'm hungry!
Eira turned on her heel with a huff, only to walk right into their host. She scrambled backwards a few moments too late, as he caught hold of her wrist and held tight. "Eira! You really should be more careful in paying attention to your surroundings. Are you all settled in?" He flashed a smile to the Dark Phoenix. "Are the accommodations to your liking?"
"We will not be staying for the night."
"Ah, you say that now, but surely, we have been quite worried these past few months, I'm sure there can't be any harm in staying over for the night! We've missed seeing our darling little flower perform for-"
"You were unaware of Eira's whereabouts?"
"I beg your pardon?"
"Mr. Durheim," The phoenix began. "If it is at all possible to-"
"Ah, questions, question! Those can wait! I'm sure you're both starving and I'd hate to let such a scrumptious feast go to waste! Lunch is about to start and you didn't show, I was getting worried."
Eira flinched at the friendly arm now pointedly draped around her shoulders, wincing as her Uncle's free hand reached over to touch her master's shoulder. That couldn't end well. "U-uncle Garrett…of course…we're coming…we're…" She stumbled awkwardly after him as he pulled both of them down the hall.
"Mr. Durheim…I was under the impression of-"
"Excuse me?"
"Ah, of course, sorry, my dear Mr. Phoenix. Durheim is my brother-in-law and his leg of the family, I hail from what we call the 'crag-side' a little rougher around the edges, but partial to those of us in the Omaha clan. My sister is the empty-headed creature…I mean, the lovely maiden, that brought about an alliance of our families." The uncle dabbed his mouth with a silken napkin. "Hence, I am Garrett Omaha. I should have made a proper introduction, but I've been simply overjoyed at seeing my niece alive and well, that all thoughts of-"
"Why wouldn't she be alive…and well?"
Eira nearly choked on her greens, attempting to reach for her drink, only to receive a hearty slap on the back.
"Ah, niece…smaller bites…deeper breaths." The hand shifted from her bank to rest meaningfully on her shoulder. "Has he been starving you? I thought the conditions would have been deplorable, but to think that really-"
"Didn't your niece tell you where she was going?" The Dark Phoenix poked a slab of meat with his knife and frowned. "I was under the impression that she had permission to-"
"She simply left one day in the middle of everything. No note, no warning and of course, the entire family has been-"
"So you registered her as a missing person with The League?"
"Naturally! I'm sure you already know that Eira is quite a precocious and difficult child to-"
"I'm not ten years old!" Eira leaned away from the hand stubbornly stuck to her shoulder. "Stop treating me like a kid!"
"Ah, Eira. You're so noisy. Still interrupting your elders in the middle of important discussions." A brilliant smile crept across Garrett's face. "Now then, why are you still here dawdling with us old folk? I thought for sure you'd want to visit with your brothers and sisters! Not to mention your cousins have been worried sick!"
"Cousins?" The Dark Phoenix shot a curious look at his apprentice. "Exactly how many brothers and sisters are we talking about?"
"Now then, Mr. Phoenix, nothing for you to worry about." Garrett patted Eira's shoulder. "Up with you niece, go enjoy yourself! In fact, don't forget to call your parents and let them know personally that you're here and doing well. I know the others will be glad to-" Eira jerked upright to her feet and stomped out of the room.
Her uncle watched her leave, his smile dimming a few watts before he waved to one of the servants to clear the half-empty dinner plate. "Honestly, I don't know what to do with that girl. But I suppose her brothers and sisters will take care of it. They're better at getting her to behave than I am."
"Would you be needing my signature?" The Dark Phoenix handed his full plate to the passing server.
"For the release of Eira's…information, in the missing persons report. A League signature is required. I do not mind signing for it, I can also vouch that she was adequately cared for while residing in my company."
"Adequately? What an interesting choice of words…"
Her feet continued moving until she found herself standing in the middle of a very long, very white hallway. Eira shook her head, trying to clear it and recall how she'd managed to make her way here.
She licked her lips, about to call out when the earlier feelings of uneasiness churned deeper in her stomach. There weren't any siblings or cousins here, but she knew this place, knew this hall, knew what it meant.
Her hands curled into fists.
This was turning out to be a day worse than before.
Eira blinked, struggling to keep her eyes open and her mind to focus on something she could handle. There was still whiteness everywhere and a light shining down from the ceiling.
Her eyes closed again, to block the light, a familiar pain dulled in the back of her head. It took a few more minutes to take inventory of the rest of her body, starting with moving her fingers and toes. By the time she'd regained full use of all motor functions, her mind had settled on the fact that it could not remember.
A moan left her lips as she groggily sat up.
She was still in the hallway.
The same hallway where her feet had walked her off to. One hand went to her mouth, tears brimming and spilling over the corners. The horror registered as she scrubbed her face with her tunic sleeve.
No. No! I didn't do this! This didn't happen again! No! Help! Somebody help me…please…
The silent cries began to fade as her sobs filled the hallway with an eerie echo.
"Eira?" One voice, a young girl, was the first to appear. "Oh, Eira!" Two pairs of chubby, warm arms were flung around her neck.
"Hey guys, I found her!" The young man grinning in the hallway, flashed a thumbs-up. "And she's being eaten alive by the twins."
"Eira? For real?" More voices and more faces.
In a matter of minutes, the hallway was swarming with siblings, cousins and servants, everyone bustling around her. Eira found herself being carried away from the depressing hallway and off to preparation rooms in the back of the house.
It registered a few moments too late.
"W-wait a minute! What are you guys doing? I can't perform!" Eira struggled against new hands, stronger than the ones from before, tugging at her uniform and smoothing her hair.
"Your hair is really too short." Lyssa sighed. "What a pity! I didn't know this is what they were going to do to you for running away again." She smirked. "Speaking of which, you owe us...don't you want to know how much trouble you're in for pulling a stunt like that?"
"I didn't run away. Everyone knew I was leaving." Eira twisted. "Get your hands out of my hair and stop touching me!"
"Now, Sis." Bryan's face appeared directly in front of her. "You should listen to your older brothers…and seriously, we've been worried. And Lyssa's right, we can't just let something like this pass as if it was nothing, I mean I wasn't even aware that you'd-"
"I don't care if you're older than me!" She thrashed wildly, trying to get away from the hands.
"Ohhh, that's a pretty necklace!" Greedy hands clasped around her neck, tugging at the silver cord and charm. "Can I see it? I want to try it on!" The younger girls clamored.
A slight tremor passed through her and Eira squeezed her eyes shut. "No! You can't! That's...don't touch that!" They should know better. She needed space. And they were in the way...again. "You should know better." The words were pushed through her lips as her hands curled into fists.
This time, her energy answered and she surged upwards from the floor with a forceful push. A faint ring of red energy crackled ominously as they pushed the annoying people away. A few shrieks and yells of surprise greeted her ears when a neat circle of a few yards radius was cleared around her.
"Eirithea!" Bryan's hands dissolved into blue flame as he scowled down at her. "You know we don't use our powers against family! You know better! Don't make me-"
"And I said that you should know better!" The words came out as a hiss. "Just leave me alone!"
"I don't think we can do that, sis." Meron picked himself up from where he'd been thrown to the wall.
"Though I do have to say, you've picked up some control. I'm impressed."
"Any idiot can master control." Eira slowly settled back on her heels. "I don't know who told who what, but this is all going to turn into a huge mess if you guys start messing things up. I've put way too much effort into this and I'm not going to let anyone ruin it!"
"Why didn't you think of that before you left?" Lyssa yawned. "And really, I do hate your hair…it's so short…and ugly. You definitely can't perform with it like that and I don't think we have a wig that will help you."
"I've been gone for how many months and all you can talk about is my hair? You haven't changed, Lyssa. What will it be next? How many credits it cost because I wasn't part of the program anymore?" She scoffed. "It couldn't have been that much. I was always just a stage accessory. I'm sure your fans grew when I disappeared."
"I wish." Lyssa snarled. "You ingrate-!"
"It is a lovely…estate." The Dark Phoenix allowed, as they strolled along the waterway. "I had no idea natural rivers still ran in this corner of Kouraki, it is very beautiful, quite calming."
Garrett forced a smile, the emotion frozen on his face. "Yes. Calming, I'm sure."
"This is a vacation residence?"
The smile disappeared completely. "As a matter of fact, it isn't."
"Ah, I thought it might have been, it's so lovely tucked away so close to nature, away from the bustle of the city. I haven't been to Kouraki for awhile. I thought there was no country left in it."
"We try to preserve what we can." There was a short bark of laughter. "Besides, the credits speak when you cannot."
"Ah, yes…which reminds me, I meant to ask. Eira's parents…? You seem to have quite a few children in your care, I am assuming they are not yours?"
"They are busy with work. My sister cannot be bothered to check after every single one of them and…I am a favorite uncle. They leave the children to me and I see to their every need. We are more of a business than a family in that sense, those of us who can produce the commodities in the highest demand, well, we whole-heartedly do our best." He smirked. "You are correct in thinking there is no Mrs. Omaha. I see no need for one, it would be useless."
"A very interesting choice of words." The Dark Phoenix said, smoothly. "Eira is adopted, yes?"
Garrett stopped a few steps ahead of him, his figure lightly shadowed by the fading sunlight. "She told you that?"
"No, but it is impossible for her to be your biological niece."
"Then you guessed?"
"I prefer to say it was logical reasoning." The Dark Phoenix turned to see the silhouette of the house. "You said your sister married a Durheim…and that would be…quite a stretch, if Eira was their child."
"How so? My sister is just one of that man's…entourage."
"A busy fellow then."
"In the entertainment industry, we do what we must. I do not care what you think of it."
"Strange…I didn't have you marked as one working in the entertainment industry, though I was aware of your...family trade."
"Really?" The walk resumed. "Why not? Am I lacking in some-"
"I meant on a stage, you seem happier in your own domain, not on display before the general public."
"Celebrities pay a price for their fame."
"Of which, you are not."
"Why is this important to you?"
"It is a puzzle…I like puzzles…and numbers. Neat, precise and logical, they fit very well inside my mind."
"Ah, of course...but please..." Something beeped and Garrett drew a device from his inner jacket pocket. He sighed. "I have business to take care of, so please, do enjoy the gardens to you heart's content. I'll send someone to fetch you for the evening meal, you need not worry."
"Is fine. Her brothers and sisters are taking care of her. She's quite the little angel to them, they were very worried to know she'd disappeared. She means a lot to all of us."
"I hate you." Eira choked, coughing. The smooth, slender hand on her back merely tapped lightly in response. "I hate all of you!"
"No you don't." Lyssa smiled. "You like Dana, remember? Wonderful, precious little Dana?"
"Where is she? What did you do to her?"
"We didn't do anything…she disappeared, uh…let's see, right around the same time you did."
"You didn't even file a missing persons for her, did you?"
"So what if we didn't? It isn't like she was irreplaceable."
"And that's supposed to make it right?" Eira suppressed a moan, twisting away from the hand to brace on the wall.
"What's the matter, E? You're looking kind of pale and-"
"You have your own self to answer that. I hope you can live with your-"
"Now, now…didn't you learn any manners at all?"
"My head hurts, stupid!" Eira grabbed handfuls of her hair, now long, thick and silky. An agonized groan came as she yanked at the hair, coherency seeming to fade away.
"Eira? Eira! Stop that!" Lyssa grabbed at her hands, succeeded in capturing her wrists. She used a flicker of green energy to lightly relax the muscles and pull Eira's hands free of her own hair. "You can't yank your own hair out…we only grew it back, it's not something you have to-"
"It hurts! Make it stop!" Eira began to flail around. "Can't you make it stop? My head it…hurts!"
"Dinner already?" The Dark Phoenix smiled at the young girl. "Ah, very well then, suppose you be my guide and I follow you back to the house, yes?"
"Mmmhmmm." The curly-headed blonde offered one innocent hand. "Go, now?" Her voice was light and accented.
"Yes. Now is fine." He took the proffered hand and slowed his pace to match the short, chubby legs. "What's your name?"
"Gre-na." The name was stretched out. "Grena. I'm four."
"Ah, what a pretty name…and four years, impressive."
"Tell me, Grena…is Eira your cousin?"
"Big sister."
"Ah, do you miss her?"
"Nuh-uh. I like Lyssa."
"I see. How about your…Uncle…Garrett?"
The toddler wrinkled her nose, stopping in her tracks, deep in thought. "Don't know."
"Hmmm…what's for dinner?"
"Don't know."
"Are you hungry?"
"Did your uncle send you to find me?"
"He didn't want you t' get lost in the garden."
"I see."
"See what?"
"Hmm? Nothing, Grena…just…talking to myself."
"Dinner's gonna be fun!"
"Uh-huh. Dinner show!" Grena gave a little hop and skip. "I can stay and watch. I'm old enough." She said, importantly. "It's good."
"The show?" The Dark Phoenix tried to clarify. "I guess we will be staying overnight…"
The dining room was quite elaborately set up.
A nod of approval came from the phoenix, himself as he stood just inside the doorway to methodically file away his observations.
It was a large, high-ceiling, perfectly square room. There were tables along three sides of the wall, with the entire middle section and one wall, prepared like a stage. There were curtains, visible props and attendants rushing about, with jobs to complete.
The tables were being set and voices announced the arrival of chattering young people, with a few adults mixed in. The phoenix moved to the side, watching as the group sorted themselves out according to some unspoken ranking system.
A feeling of annoyance settled in when he realized there was far more empty seats than people and a security guard took up residence to his left. Moving yet another step away, the phoenix watched as more people were admitted, this time with tickets.
His eyebrows went up. Eira had barely been present for a handful of hours and already, it seemed her fame was enough to warrant a dinner show. He winced, feeling the faint beginnings of a headache starting in the very lightest corner of his mind. This was going to be a long dinner.
"Ah, Mr. Phoenix, aren't you going to join us?" Garrett stood beside him, a pleasant expression offered. "Please, you are our guest, do sit here." The chair at the left was offered as the one of his right left empty. "I do believe you are in for a treat, have you ever seen, Eira perform?"
"Eira? Perform?"
"Yes, it is quite a spectacular phenomenon. Her individual act is very unique, it's called 'Whirlwind'."
"I am…surprised. I did not know her talents existed to wind."
"Ah, but you have never seen her like this, I believe."
"Like how…?" His words trailed off as the performers for the evening entered from the far wall.
In richly detailed costumes, crafted to showcase each body at its most beautiful, the children began to enter. The phoenix was able to pick out a few faces and eventually, even Eira's.
Her hair had been grown to a length that would have been troublesome, if not for the costume and constant energy swarming around her. Each individual was aglow from head to toe with their respective primary energy, creating a lovely, rainbow shimmer to light the room from within.
To his credit, the host was correct. Each act was spectacular and each performer was powerful and unique in their own right. The phoenix witnessed transformations, mesmerizing vocals, captivating dance and perfect synchronization.
"This is very…well…done." He allowed, when prompted by his host to voice his opinion.
"Pretty! Pretty!" Grena clambered into his lap. "It's pretty!"
"Yes, it is." The phoenix smiled, offering her a vegetable roll. "And do you dance too?"
Grena wrinkled her nose. "Nuh-uh. I'm not big 'nuff yet."
"Grena, do not disturb our guest." Garrett reached over, catching her by shoulder straps of her dress and lifting her clear, to set her on the floor. "Isn't Kimmy watching you? Go find, Kimmy."
"But I wanna sta-!"
"Go." The order was punctuated with a glare, at which the little girl gave a whimper and a pout. Ducking her head, she streaked off towards the exit, the gaieties forgotten. She paused in the doorway, to throw herself at one of the serving girls. The result was a loud and messy crash as the tray and its contents were splattered.
"That stupid-!" Garrett jerked up from his seat, stalking over to the source of the irritation. "Please, do excuse me." But the polite words were spoken in barely concealed anger.
The phoenix watched this episode with mild curiosity before returning his attention to his plate. He didn't care to see what exactly would happen next, it had been enough of a challenge to keep a mostly polite appearance for the sake of reputation. Witnessing any act of injustice at the moment would most certainly set off a chain of disasters for which he'd be obligated to oversee.
He sighed as one of Grena's muffled wails reached his ears. She was throwing a temper tantrum, it seemed, for a reason he could not quite fathom. Her cries were quickly silenced, however, and it was a matter of moments before he dared to look again, to see a handful of bots seeing to cleanup duty.
Another sigh bubbled up and he pushed it aside. A familiar piece of meat remained in one corner of his plate and this time he remembered his reason for such distaste. Wiping his mouth, he set the napkin in the corner and placed the utensils at the edge of the plate.
"Master Phoenix?" Eira's voice came from directly in front of him.
His head snapped up and he blinked, searching amongst the carefully applied cosmetics and curled locks of hair. "Eira?"
"I-I'm sorry you have to see me like this." Her actual blush blossomed deeper than the painted rose dots at the edges of her cheek. "and I'm really sorry about everything else, can we leave now? Please?"
"Eira?" Garrett's voice broke in. "Why aren't you with the others? They've been so excited to know you're back, they all wanted to perform with you tonight."
"Ah…ha…yeah, right." Eira forced a smile, taking a careful step back, her hands holding up the filmy skirt, her feet bare. "I've been really out of practice lately, so it's probably a good thing that I'm not-"
"Out of practice? You? I doubt it. You live to dance!"
"No, I don't."
"Now, Eira…" Her uncle's voice was patient and soothing. "We've talked about this before and we have-"
A spark of white crackled at her feet and swiftly spiraled upwards, covering her in a blinding cocoon of white energy. The dinner guests shied away from the brilliant until the light flickered off.
The light crystals in the room exploded.
A few shrieks were heard and then whispering giggles filled the room.
The glowing Eira moved slowly, stiffly to the center of the room and sat down, cross-legged, arms folded in front of her. The footprints left behind flared white and then melted away. The glow faded from her body, the last trace registering only as burning, white eyes, as her head tilted back and her mouth opened.
The Dark Phoenix wrinkled his nose, waiting while the hood of his cloak silently moved up to cover his head, adding another degree of darkness. He'd heard her voice before, but under this influence, he didn't want to know exactly what it could do.
She sang for awhile, until the white energy in her eyes burned red. Then she rose to stand, taking the scarves tied in her hair to secure them to the bangles on her wrist. Her head turned and one finger pointed towards the host and guest of honor.
"For you!" She cooed, blowing a kiss.
Pillars of fire streamed upwards from the canisters positioned around the edges of the stage. The strange glow lit up the room as the attendants hurried in, replacing the light crystals with new ones and directing cleaning bots to see to the sharp pieces littering the floor.
Her dancing outfit of a floaty, golden skirt and blouse burned away to a wispy, white dress, similar to the whisper-folk in Pietrasaan. It fell well down to her ankles, with several thin layers of gauze and various sparkling gems scattered throughout. At the base of her neck, something silvery sparkled.
The Dark Phoenix nearly choked on his vegetable soup. So that's where the Lyrith went…you have a great deal of explaining ahead of you, apprentice. Casting a glance to the corner of his eyes, another ripple of displeasure washed over him. Her dear uncle was staring at the necklace with an expression of pure hatred, his hands fisted in the white tablecloth. The danger I feel here…it is him…?
Attention returned to Eira as she raised one hand, wiping her forehead with a silken sleeve, the eyes burned red and she laughed as the red energies faded away and the white returned. The broken pieces of crystal on the floor began to glow white, as the sharp cutlery on the table also took to flight.
The sharp instruments flew through the air, stopping just inches away from the maniac dancing girl in the center of the room. She took a bow, snapping her fingers as she stood upright. "Listen to my song," She intoned. "Hear what I can't tell you."
Wind blew through the room, with a faint mist accompanying it. A strange haze settled over the stage as Eira began to return to the original form of a serene, white statue. The knives and broken crystal swarmed around her, creating a constant, spinning barrier.
Her head tilted to the left and then she smiled as her feet began to move. Delicate white footprints decorated the expensive carpet and the smooth dancing stage as she skipped lightly around in a pattern where every other step was a twirl. The knives and crystal moved effortlessly around her, moving out when she darted in and pressing closer when she shrank away.
The pattern danced on the floor began to glow, until, even beneath her whirling skirts, Eira's glowing feet could be seen, the symbols carved into the soles of her feet, seeming to burn even brighter. The footprints began to connect, until two double circles were formed, a smaller one inside the first. Lines crisscrossed each other, forming pointed stars and triangles, until a glowing medallion was carved into the floor.
Her feet slowed and stopped, as Eira stood in the very center of the finished pattern. Her mouth opened and soft vocals began, rising in crescendo as the energy built up, humming, glowing and sparking wildly.
From the four corners of the room, four bolts of pure-white light streaked directly to the summoner calling them. Panic set in as the dinner guests began to clear out of the room. There were more security guards than before, seemingly sprouting out of nowhere to escort the guests out.
Garrett was smuggled away by bodyguards, the room emptied in the moment it took the phoenix to realize that he was the only one left. Strange...to leave your own niece...and no counter measures...? I do not like you, Garrett Omaha.
The earlier feelings of annoyance registered with a singular moment of disgust. It took another moment to work with sorting out the feelings before he gave up altogether. It was pointless and irritating.
Slowly at first and then more rapidly, tiny wisps of black mist began to snake out of him, until his entire figure was covered with a deadly swarming cloak, even darker than before. The show before his eyes was analyzed in a single breath.
Her voice reached the highest point in the same instant the Dark Phoenix yawned. He dipped one gloved hand into the glass of wine and licked it, frowning. Then, raising the same hand, he snapped his fingers—once.
The command given in both head and heart, he stood up from his chair, knocking it over as he placed one hand on the table and effortlessly hopped over. One hand reached back for a fruit from the decorative display and he polished it on the front of his cloak as he approached the glowing girl.
Her barrier of knives and crystal blurred even faster as he approached, in all his darkened glory. The pattern on the floor groaned beneath the weight of two people, one calling and the other suppressing. Leaping from the floor, as a lighted image, it flashed forward, avoiding the Dark Phoenix to imprint itself on its summoner.
Eira's scream echoed through the entire estate.
She stood, trapped within her own prison of fear, the pattern having forced gaps in her original defense. Through the small holes, patches of her face and body were now visible, every inch of uncovered skin, bore some mark from the pattern, still glowing a fierce white. It had simply risen and enveloped her, using her physical body for the necessary completion.
The Dark Phoenix sighed. "Apprentice…" His voice was darker, rougher and deliberate. "Cease and desist." His right hand darted forward, the fruit in hand, directly to her face.
She gave a squeak of surprise as it registered, the whiteness flickered and left, her expression of terror muffled as the broken crystal and knives clattered to the floor. Her arms waved wildly for a moment, before she settled on grabbing the phoenix himself. "What's going on here!"
He simply caught the fruit that fell from her mouth and held it up in answer.
She released him at once, taking the fruit in a daze. "I did it again, didn't I?" Her voice was toneless, void of expression, a mask slowly creeping over her face. "I always do it like this…I can't help myself. I turn into a monster and then…" She shuddered violently, tears beginning to pour from her eyes. "Always a monster…a machine, even." The items at her feet registered and she nearly screamed. "W-what are those doing there? Get them away from me!"
"They weren't bothering you a moment ago."
"A moment ago, I didn't know they were there!" She chewed on a fingernail. "Please...please...make them go away...they're sharp...they hurt...they can hurt me..." She gagged. "They cut things...they bleed...the taste of blood..." She choked. "Get them...make it stop...please!" Her hands went to her head, the pain from before returning again. "Please make it stop!"
He caught hold of her hands easily in one of his own. "It's stopping. It's stopping." He soothed. "It stopped...it's all gone. Shhh!" He scowled at the floor and the cutlery melted away, the crystal erupting in black flame before fading to nothing. "There now, it's all gone, isn't it?" He released her hands, returning to his original intent. "You must be hungry…eat that." He held up the fruit.
"I-I can't…" She wailed, the emotions registering in her eyes and nowhere else. "I'm not hungry." The fruit was beginning to crumple under the pressure of her squeeze as she hugged her arms to herself, attempting to stop the shaking that was now starting in full force.
"Liar." He winced. "And that lie hurt."
She gasped, her hands moving to her mouth. "Sorry! I'm sorry! Sorry!"
"Then eat it." He guided the fruit to her mouth. "Go ahead, take a bite…"
"N-no!" Her eyes squeezed shut. "I can't…I can't….you don't understand, this is bad and-"
A wide band of black energy shot straight out from his back, turning into a ribbon that suddenly ran the entire length around the room, sealing the doors and decorating the walls with a protective barrier.
A phoenix barrier. The official symbol flared on the ceiling in a dull, golden color. He almost smiled, taking the fruit from her hand and a knife from the folds of his voluminous cloak.
"You really should keep better track of this." He carved the fruit into neat slices and held one up to her mouth. "Open. Chew. Swallow." He pushed it gently against her closed mouth. "In that order, preferably."
The tears slowed as her lips parted and she nearly swallowed the entire slice. Her stomach rumbled as the last hot tears flowed freely. "I'm sorry." She managed, between bites. "I'm sorry." A flicker of pink energy registered, the snack converting to energy to fuel her hypersensitive self.
"One apology with all your heart is enough…more than that…is annoying." He wiped the knife with a kerchief and extended it to her. "In the future, if you happen to lose this again, I won't forgive you."
"M-my knife?" She stared at it, wonderingly. "T-they took it…I didn't…I couldn't…I'm sorry!"
"You should be." He patted her head. "That was a silly thing to do…to let your opponent get the best of you when interacting in a familiar environment."
A blush registered, head bowed. "I'm-"
"Sorry. Yes. I know. So you've said." The Dark Phoenix slowly tugged off one black, silken glove. "Which leaves me no choice at the moment, though I will say that you are by far the best candidate." He smirked. "This will be far be the most dangerous…considering the depth of my darkness, I'll have to be very…very, careful." His gaze swept her from head to the toe. "But there is no better time than the present…particularly with all of this…" His cool, smooth fingers caressed her cheek, where the pattern marks now faded away. "Do you trust me, apprentice?"
"I-I don't have a choice, do I?" Her eyes desperately searched his face, reading nothing more than an expression she couldn't decipher.
"Don't you trust me, Eira?" The hand on her face, tipped her chin up, darkened, fathomless eyes seeing beyond the face before him.
"Y-you can't trust me."
"That is not the question."
"I'm a monster…I'm uncontrollable…I can do…I'm…"
"That is not the answer."
"Please…don't hurt me!" Her eyes squeezed shut, more tears coming. "Please don't hurt me. I can't take it anymore!"
"I would never hurt you." The hand from her face traveled to rest securely on her shoulder, holding her at arm's length. "Not when it is within my power to remove the pain without hindering the result produced from overcoming one's weaknesses. Pain is a natural element of life. You live and you die. In between of that, whatever happens…pain is always present, without it, we would be poor examples of intelligence."
A teary half-smile surfaced. "As usual…you don't make any sense at all." She hiccupped, reaching for him.
He smoothed away one teardrop and as her eyes opened, he smiled, just for her. An expression so beautiful and heartbreaking, she caught her breath, one hand covering her mouth.
"…a-ask me again."
"Don't move." He leaned forward, wrapping his arms tightly around her in a hug for the briefest of moments and then he released her. "Do you trust me?"
"Yeah. I do."
"This will hurt." He pulled away, one hand remaining on her shoulder as the other drew a handful of black energy from the folds of his cloak, it straightened and shimmered, settling into the form of a pointed javelin.
Eira cringed, unable to back away as the hand on her shoulder kept her frozen to the spot. "Happy place…?"
Her mouth spoke before her mind could give it release.
His smile didn't waver. "Yes…think of a happy place." She closed her eyes as he thrust the point straight through her chest.
Pain erupted everywhere.
I trust you. I trust you. I trust you. Her thoughts chanted over and over, only able to handle this level of reality as the pain began to evade every corner of her body, pushing past the barriers, the memories and her personal supply of pain, itself.
Her body writhed in his arms for a few, mercifully short moments and then, everything faded away.
© Sara Harricharan


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The Koehler Center provides a number of online resources to support teaching and learning at TCU. Such resources include guides for creating accessible course content, resources for developing a syllabus, tips for using educational technology, an online catalogue of pedagogy books available for check-out, a web magazine dedicated to teaching and written by faculty and staff at TCU, and resource pages for specific audiences (department chairs, new TCU hires, etc.).
Accessibility for TCU Online
Accessibility, as it relates to e-learning, means that your e-learning course should be accessible to a variety of users–for example, learners with disabilities, the aging population, and those for whom English is a second language. Simply put, this means that information must be provided in a format that does not rely on a single sense or ability.
Learn more about creating accessible content.
The Creator Studio
Want to make short interactive videos for your classes? The Koehler Center is excited to introduce the Creator Studio, located in Winton-Scott Hall, Room 108. The Creator Studio puts you in charge of recording and editing your video content as you create engaging material for your courses. The Koehler Center staff will be nearby for any help you need or to consult with you on what will work best for your class.
Learn about the Creator Studio.
Educational Technology
By providing support for various educational technology solutions, the Koehler Center is focused on responding to the present needs of instructors, as well as keeping the TCU community informed of new educational possibilities.
Learn more about Educational Technology solutions.
Insights Magazine
Insights magazine is the Koehler Center's biannual electronic publication. It features articles written by faculty and instructional staff highlighting teaching innovation, student engagement, and professional development. It also showcases upcoming Koehler Center events, workshops, and speakers.
Learn more about Insights and read past issues.
Koehler Center Library
The Koehler Center houses a collection of current books and journals on subjects such as active learning, online learning, course development, and the scholarship of teaching and learning.
Learn more about the Koehler Center Library and search the collection.
Mobile Computer Cart
The Koehler Center has a Mobile Computer Cart to support in-class activities or projects that require students to use a computer. Instructors can reserve a class set (32) computers to use in any academic building during their designated class time. Please book at least 24 hours in advance to allow the Koehler Center team to make arrangements for pick up and drop off.
Learn more about the Mobile Computer Cart, check availability and reserve the cart.
New to TCU
The New to TCU pages offer helpful information if you are new to campus (ID Card, Parking, WiFi), information about specific campus services (Shuttle Services, Classroom Technology Introduction, Post Office), and resources to help you prepare to teach (Syllabus Template, Mandatory Policies, Syllabus Rubric).
Visit the New to TCU resources.
Syllabus Resources
The resources on this page are available to help you create new syllabi or revise old favorites. Wondering what to include in your syllabus? You will find accessible syllabus templates that you can adapt and use, and that include the current versions of the required TCU policies. Looking for ways to revise existing information? Use the syllabus rubric for suggestions on how to improve the overall quality of your syllabus. Other resources include links to the Academic and Final Exam calendars, and a list of in- and out-of-class activities to encourage students to read the syllabus.
TCU Chairs Resources
This website offers support for TCU department chairs and program directors, providing information on policy and procedure, easy access to administrative forms, links to "best practice" resources, and information on training sessions and meetings of the Chairs Council.

subset: commoncrawl


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Al Kite answered his door in Aurora, Colorado in 2004, to let in a prospective renter who he had met before. He had just finished talking with his girlfriend on the phone and it was the last time anyone Al knew would speak with him. He was found two days later, tortured and murdered in his basement. The killer would live in his house for the weekend, sleep in his bed, wear his clothes and drive his car to the ATM to get cash from Al's account. To top it all off, the killer has never been caught.
Music from Free Music Archive: Kevin MacLeod, Sunhillow, Blue Dot Sessions


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Elekta Synergy system was the first linear accelerator to bring 3D image guidance into the treatment set up process. The system is equipped with imaging tools that help clinicians visualize tumor targets and normal tissue, and their movement between and during fractions. The integration of this technology in the Elekta Synergy gantry enables physicians to perform imaging with the patient in the treatment position at the time of treatment, to optimize patient setup before therapy.
Key imaging tools include 2D, 3D and 4D volumetric cone-beam imaging for soft tissue visualization; 2D real-time, fluoroscopic-like imaging for targets that move frequently; and 2D kV imaging for standard and orthogonal planar imaging. Elekta Synergy also features sophisticated ultra-low leakage field shaping with a fully integrated multileaf collimator, in addition to a 40 x 40 cm uninterrupted field size to simplify and refine treatment of larger-field targets.


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Considerations in Managing a Successful Risk Strategy
Join us at the Pension & Investments Canadian Pension Risk Strategies Summit, May 5th, at the Four Seasons Toronto. The summit will provide an overview of growing financial risk and increased market volatility of plan liabilities. Top experts will share their strategies for retirement plans considering whether to undergo a risk transfer transaction or to incorporate an LDI strategy to help improve the plan's funded status.
From 9:40 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Martin Leclair, Vice President at Proteus, will be part of the panel discussion regarding considerations in managing a successful risk strategy. He will be joining Duncan Burrill from the CBC Pension Plan and William da Silva from Aon Hewitt.
Panel Discussion: Important Considerations in Managing a Successful Risk Strategy
The focus in any good risk management approach is initially on asset strategies like liability-driven investing (LDI) and optimizing return-seeking strategies. However, you should not lose sight of other key considerations. It can be quite a daunting task for you and other top executives in charge of the risk strategy to shift focus from asset management to broader pension de-risking strategies. It's often a complex process that requires meeting many fiduciary and regulatory requirements that you may have overlooked, until now.
This panel will provide some of the key considerations that should be taken into account:
Fiduciary obligations: Delegation of duties to external money managers doesn't take care of all fiduciary responsibilities. Understand why it's important to know how to ask tough questions about metrics, derivatives or other risk control strategies.
Monitoring: As conditions change, adjustments might be warranted. How often should the plan's exposure to risk factors be checked?
Regulatory compliance: Once your plan's risk profile has been established, how should you prioritize on the likeliness of an adverse event occurring and the impact of that event on your plan?
Legal Issues: In any de-risking strategy, plan sponsors should understand any legal risks that might be present and how to eliminate or mitigate these.
Transparent communication with investment board/committee: What modes of communication is best for sending timely, accurate messaging to board members?
To see the full agenda, 'click here'.


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JACKSON, Mississippi — A federal appeals court has upheld the conviction of a former executive director of the South Delta Regional Housing Authority and her 32-month prison sentence. The ruling was issued Thursday by a three-judge panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans. » READ MORE about this story … Ann Jefferson was convicted in ...Read More »
Tag Archives: Stupidity
SALTILLO — Saltillo has joined other communities in approving a ban on saggy pants in public. The unanimous vote by aldermen came Tuesday during their regular meeting. >>> MBJ POLL QUESTION: Which is more indecent? A $50 fine comes with the first offense with subsequent offenses possibly resulting in fines up to $200. Saltillo's new ban will take effect in ...Read More »
Panel sides with EPA over Yazoo Pump; board mulls another appeal
NEW ORLEANS — A federal appeals court panel sided yesterday with the Environmental Protection Agency over its 2008 veto of a $220 million flood control project near the Yazoo River in the south Mississippi Delta. >> RELATED: EPA admits it has no experts on Yazoo Pump Project. The Board of Mississippi Levee Commissioners sued the EPA in 2009 after the ...Read More »
Housing director's trial to get underway next month
GREENVILLE — A Sept. 26 trial date has been set for the director of the South Delta Regional Housing Authority and a contractor in a federal criminal case, according to The Delta Democrat-Times. ••• SEE ANALYSIS AT EDITOR'S NOTEBOOK ••• SEE MORE COVERAGE Ann Jefferson, who is on administrative leave as the authority's executive director, and Jimmy Johnson, a contractor ...Read More »
Ball State University report: Mississippi is fat and stupid
Mississippians are fat, stupid and doomed to low-wage, menial careers, according to a Ball State University report. However, officials at the Mississippi Economic Council scoff at the findings, leading MEC president Blake Wilson to say, "I'm glad (they are) very safe behind (their) internet research perch." >>> SEE REPORT<<< >>>SEE COMPLETE STORY<<<Read More »


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Man, I couldn't wait for this one! The September 2008 issue of Condé Nast Portfolio was featuring personal-finance advice from Alan Patricof! Alan Frigging Patricof!
The father of…
The veteran of…
Well, no, I didn't actually know who the heck Alan Patricof was, but the subtitle of the article dubbed him a "[v]enture capital veteran" and the introduction said he was a venture capitalist "before the term even existed." That's good enough for me to be curious what his advice would be for, relatively speaking, "regular" investors.
I tend to think of venture capital investing as high-risk, high-reward. Being prepared to make 20 investments in which you hit one major home run—and lose your shirt on most of the rest. Strictly for the wealthy. So I was kind of surprised that the first few bits of advice that Patricoff offered all seemed fairly conservative to me. The article started by asking Patricof what he would do with "an extra $100,000." This seems like a very useful question to be asking, though I must admit it is a bit hard to think of having $100,000 and deciding to call it an "extra" $100,000. I can, using the power of positive thinking, imagine having $100,000 at all; and I can imagine having $100,000 that I was willing to invest. But I'm not yet to the point where I can see myself with $100,000 that I look at and think, "What will I do with this extra $100,000?"
But I digress.
In any event, Patricof responded first by saying:
I certainly would not invest everything immediately. I would do it cautiously, on a gradual basis.And then he described an investment mix that felt conservative to me, although he noted that the answer should depend on one's age and net worth:
40% in stocks, including international
25% in convertible preferred or convertible debt
25% in 15-year federally backed CD with a 6% return
10% in cash—"to take advantage of any further decline in the market"
I thought this was kind of a nice reality check. Venture capitalists are not necessarily all high flyers, willing to make big bets with big money and equally willing to take big losses, in the way that I might romanticize them. Many may be savvy business people who hate big losses, but take them in calculated ways—and like Patricoff, may even be conservative in day-to-day investing. I read Patricoff's advice as traditional and fundamental, suggesting that one cannot time the market and should not try to time the market, this being the reason the lump sum of money should be invested "cautiously, on a gradual basis." And I see the investment mix he suggested as quite conservative, with a much lower proportion of stocks overall—and by consequence, a much lower portion of international stocks—than many investment mixes I have seen recommended, particularly those for younger folks or for those who are more aggressive.
As for more specific thoughts about areas or sectors that may be good for investment, Patricof mentioned the following:
- alternative energy—says they are going to "be much bigger in the coming years"
- Internet—says it is going to be the "primary way of getting information for a long time"
- I.T. and software services—says these are important for their productivity boost
- mobile phones—says they will be "ubiquitous and deliver services that will touch every aspect of our lives"
For more from Alan Frigging Patricoff, check out the September 2008 issue of Condé Nast Portfolio.
Related Posts:
20-40% Returns Sound Heavenly But...
The 9 Or So Paths To Getting Rich—And My Purported Analysis Of Them (Part 1 of 2)
The 9 Or So Paths To Getting Rich—And My Purported Analysis Of Them (Part 2 of 2)
Allocate 50% to Non-U.S. Stocks, According to Wharton Professor


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One of the most frequently asked questions we get is 'how do I get rid of mould' and 'how do I stop it from coming back?'
Living in Cornwall, most of us cannot live without coming into contact with mould as air from the southwest causes a moist environment. Excess water is one of the main causes of damp and mould, meaning the pesky spores will always try to infiltrate our homes. Be it in the corners of your shower cubicle or behind furniture in damp parts of your rooms, mould is part and parcel of our Cornish lifestyle and we can only manage the problem.
We deal with this on a daily basis and want to share 'how to get rid of mould' and 'how to stop it coming back' Passmore Cleaning style.
First of all, you need to determine the root of your damp and mould, our climate is one cause, however other factors such as plumbing leaks, lack of ventilation and simply cooking and drying clothes can be major contributors. See more causes here and here.
There is little point starting treatment until the area affected is dry, as mould cannot develop if there is no moisture. An option for this is using a dehumidifier, however, be sure that all windows and doors are closed as you will be simply be attempting to dry the air outside… and that's never going to happen. The opposite option is open the windows during warm weather (rare, but it does happen). We can't stress enough that ventilation is very important for a damp free home. It seems contradictory to open all the windows to keep out mould but ventilation prevents condensation and moisture building up on walls and ceilings.
We recommend wearing a mask and gloves for this part and making sure the rooms are well ventilated with any windows open and all children, pets are out of harms reach. Now, all you need to do is spray the affected area with mould remover, we find Dettol Mould & Mildew to be the most effective, but use your own favourite. And most importantly… leave it. Do not wipe it. Simply spraying the mould will kill the spores. Repeat step 2 and 3 if necessary.
So now you've got rid of the mould how do you keep it from coming back? Well, ventilation, ventilation, ventilation. Especially when doing everyday tasks such as drying clothes and cooking. On top of this, just keeping your home dry and remembering mould feeds off moisture. The key is regular treatment of mould areas; if you see even a little creeping in then give the beggars a zap with the mould spray and remember… leave it to work it's magic.
So there you have it, a very simple way to combat Cornish mould. Another tip for the winter is to invest in a dehumidifier or dehumidifier traps as they absorb three times their weight in water and prevent mould spores feeding off moisture in your home.
Dealing with mould and acting on prevention not only has health benefits but financial as well. Especially when living in rented accommodation, it is more cost effective to keep on top of the mould, as when you leave, you will get your all your deposit back and won't be charged to get rid of it.
Any more questions feel free to contact us and we will get back to you in a jiffy.
Our Blog!
A space for cleaning advice and words from Passmore Cleaning
July 2019


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Government Monitoring
The Scotia Rapid Test for Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP)
The SRT PSP test is a qualitative lateral flow rapid test for PSP toxins that can be used with bivalves such as mussels, clams and oysters. This test involves converting the shellfish into a liquid form (known as the extract) which can then be applied to the test.
This test is used as a screen to reduce the volume of samples being tested by analytical methods. A negative sample will require no further testing. A positive sample should be analyzed by a quantitative method. This screening protocol can significantly reduce the costs associated with analytical testing by government regulators.
The SRT PSP test has regulatory approval by the USFDA ISSC for use as a screen using the AOAC extraction method.
The testing method is completed in three basic steps:
Step 1: Prepare sample
For Shellfish: Remove tissue from the shell and grind till smooth
For Lobster Tomalley: Remove tomalley from the lobster and blend till smooth
For Algae: Filter seawater and collect algal cells
Step 2: Prepare Extract
For Shellfish: Extraction process converts ground shellfish into a liquid form using one of two methods:
1. Positive results obtained in a regulated environment will need further analytical testing by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) or Mouse Bioassay (MBA). This will require using the AOAC Extraction.
2. If further testing is not required, then use Rapid Extraction.
For Lobster Tomalley:
Extraction process converts blended tomalley into a liquid form. This will require AOAC Extraction method.
For Algae:
Extraction process converts the collected algal cells to liquid form using the Phyto Extraction.
Step 3: Proceed to Scotia PSP Test
To test, dilute shellfish, tomalley or algal extract in the buffer provided with kit and apply sample to the test cassette.
For further details on how to perform the test see PSP AOAC, PSP Rapid or PSP Phyto testing instructions.
Example of negative and positive (toxins present) test results:
Please see kit instructions for complete test interpretation.
Product Specifications
Sensitivity in shellfish
20-70 µg/100 g
Sensitivity in phytoplankton
0.1 µg/mL
Test Time
35 minutes
Shelf Life
1 year
Single sample use


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It's Bi Visibility Day which is surprisingly important in a world where the both gay and straight culture refuse to play nice with bi people. The L and G part of the umbrella think it's not 'gay enough' and straight people think it's a phase or greediness. They come at it from opposing points of view but the effect is the same that bisexuality isn't seen as a distinct identity on its own.
This makes it tricky for a lot of bi people to come out especially if like many people their attraction varies from gender to gender rather than being equal in style and intensity with everyone so they feel much more romantic with men and more sexual with women for example.
All the difficulties and complexities of coming out as bi can mean that only the negatives of the whole identity gets talked about which is a real shame. I think if I'd known earlier than you can be bisexual without having to actually prove it through queer sex and that there were so many advantages to it, I mightn't have been so slow to catch on to it.
There's the obvious joy of cunt of course. Playing with Princess's cunt is one of my favourite things in the world (along with making her come.) Cock will always be my first love but I am constantly delighted by how much cunt manages to keep me intrigued. It changes more from fuck to fuck than cock does and there's more taste as well.
Plus getting to know Princess's cunt has helped teach me all kinds of things about my own now I have had the chance to really feel the fluctuations, changes and party tricks it can offer you. I'm only limited by the reach of my own wrist these days which also makes me more grateful for the joys of sex toys.
If I love a dildo then I'm twice as in love with a double ended dildo. Princess fucks better with a double ended dildo than a lot of men do with their own dick. Plus she looks incredibly hot filled up and fucking me at the same time while her tits jiggle in rhythm with her filthy mind.
And then there's the fact that threesomes are easier when you're not straight. I love love love watching my Master fucking Princess and getting that slightly voyeuristic but yet front row seat to how well they know each other's bodies and pleasure. Add in the advantages of three pairs of hands, three mouths and even more positions possible with all those arms and legs and I'm smitten.
Add in getting to see Sir watching and flirting with other men and I'm really not sure I could be tempted back to a straight relationship…


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Attraction Information
- Landmarks
Ages: 4+
Venue type: Indoor
Ely Cathedral is a magnificent building that offers a warm welcome to all its visitors, whether their interest is historical, religious, architectural, or even those who just want to explore this impressive building.
There is plenty to discover in this amazing place, built in 1082, including how a Saxon princess became a Saint and founder of Ely after running away from her husband, and how the cathedral became the only building in the UK to be recognised as one of the 7 Medieval Wonders of the World!
You can also learn about the astonishing collapse of the central tower and its replacement by the unique Octagon Tower, why Oliver Cromwell shut the cathedral for 11 years, and much more on the guided tours, which are included in the admission price and cover the ground floor.
There is so much to see and do, from the stunning 215 feet (65.5m) high West Tower, which dates from the 13th and 14th centuries, to the 19th century Labyrinth at the West Door. Look out for all the animals represented in woodcarvings, stone, and stained glass, and see how many you can spot! Speaking of stained glass, there is a museum dedicated to this inside the cathedral (the only one of its kind!), which offers an insight into the history and techniques of stained glass over 800 years!
Activities for kids include brass rubbing and an Activity Trail, with the chance to win a prize if they crack the code! The cathedral is surrounded by meadows and parkland, offering plenty of ideal spots to have a picnic or to just sit and enjoy the beautiful views.
- Snacks Available
- Onsite Shop
- Toilets Available
- Disabled Toilets Available
- Wheelchair Friendly
Getting There and Contact Information
Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4DL, England
Click here to visit Ely Cathedral's website
01353 667735
Standard Opening Times and Pricing
Opening hours
Open daily. Summer: 7am to 6.30pm Winter: 7am to 6.30pm (Monday to Saturday), 7am to 5.30pm on Sunday.
Admission to the ground floor is free for the under 16's if accompanying their parent(s) or guardian(s).
Admission including guided tour: Adult £8, Concession £6
Admission and Octagon or West Tower Tour tour: Adult £14.50, Concession £12.50


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Kalispell Regional Medical Center
Kalispell Regional Healthcare
Kalispell Regional Medical Center
Kalispell Regional Healthcare Foundation
Brendan House
The Summit
Kalispell Medical Equipment
Pathways Treatment Center
Physician Network
The HealthCenter
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To Your Health
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Student Affiliations
Patients and Visitors
Medical Records
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Construction Updates
Directions, Maps and Parking
Gift Shop
Grateful Patient and Family Program
On-Campus and Off-Campus Dining
Organ Donor
Patient Rights and Policies
Tobacco-Free Campus
About the Aircraft and Crew
A.L.E.R.T. Banquet Stories
Frequently Asked Questions
Give to A.L.E.R.T.
Behavioral Health
Depression Support Group
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The Newman Center
Pediatric Services
Meet Our Team
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Birthing Center
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Pathways Treatment Center
Pathways Treatment Center, a department of Kalispell Regional Medical Center, located in Kalispell, Montana, began its high standard of care when it opened its doors in 1994. Pathways provides acute inpatient services for Montana clients who have mental health or substance abuse issues.
The 40-bed facility offers clinically effective treatment through the collaborative efforts of a team that includes psychiatrists, addictionologists, certified licensed addiction counselors, licensed therapists, psychiatric nurses and mental health specialists. Each staff member is dedicated to delivering results-oriented treatment in a caring and confidential environment.
An organization known as Mental Health America promotes opportunities to explore options in mental health care. Explore the resources by visiting the
MHA website
Pathways Community Meetings
12-1:30 p.m. Depression Support Group
9 a.m. AA Speaker Meeting
9 a.m. AA Speaker Meeting
8 p.m. NA Meeting
Psychiatric Program
The Pathways psychiatric program is carried out during a short-term stay. It is designed to help people with emotional and psychiatric problems stabilize, receive appropriate medications if needed, learn healthy coping skills and develop effective plans for successful transition back to their communities.
The program includes:
Daily meetings with a psychiatrist
An assigned counselor
Chemical dependency evaluation, if needed
Family meetings as indicated
Therapeutic services
After-care coordination
Inpatient Chemical Dependency
Pathways provides professional referred 24-hour medically monitored detoxification services.
For individuals who are admitted for medically monitored detoxification, services include:
Daily visits by a medical physician
Around-the-clock nursing monitoring
Medication administration by physician order
Full therapeutic services, as tolerated by the patient
ASAM Level 3.7 (medically monitored intensive inpatient services, as defined by the American Society of Addiction Medicine)
Co-Occurring Disorders
Pathways provides treatment for co-occurring disorders to address both psychological/emotional and chemical dependency issues concurrently. Our staff helps patients identify the interdependent relationships between their mental health and chemical dependency issues.
The adolescent program is conducted in a separate wing of the treatment center from adults. It is designed to assess, stabilize and coordinate ongoing care for adolescents in crisis and their families. Simultaneous capability and case coordination help families, agencies and placements continue ongoing care of the child.
Referral Process
Our intake specialist and clinical staff are available to help you determine the appropriateness for placement at our facility. For more information about the referral process, please call
(406) 756-3950
If you are concerned for yourself or for others and their safety, you can always visit the emergency room.
What to Expect
What Pathways Treatment Center Provides
Pathways Treatment Center provides inpatient hospitalization for psychiatric and/or chemically dependent adults and adolescents in a friendly and professionally staffed medical facility. It is a short-term, acute behavioral health hospital with an average stay of usually less than a week. Lengths of stay vary and are determined after the patient has been evaluated by the treatment team. On admission a registered nurse will work with you through the admission process. You will be seen by medical and/or psychiatric physicians. Your assigned therapist will make every effort to introduce him/herself to you as soon as possible and will act as your counselor and case manager. If you are admitted in the evening you will meet your physicians and therapist the next day. Daily group therapy, life skills and recreational therapy are provided to help you learn more effective coping skills.
Voluntary Admission
If you are coming to Pathways voluntarily you will complete paperwork upon arrival. You may sign a request to leave anytime after your admission, but your psychiatrist has up to five business days to ensure a safe discharge plan for you.
Involuntary Admission or Emergency Detention
If you are coming to Pathways involuntarily this means that you will be required by law to stay here. You will be provided paperwork regarding this, and a court appearance will be scheduled for you. This will not go on a police record, and you are not in any legal trouble. A copy of your patient rights will be provided either by the mental health professional who evaluated you prior to admission or by the nursing staff upon admission. Also, a public defender will be provided for you for any court proceedings.
Personal Belongings
It is best to pack lightly when coming to Pathways. Laundry facilities are available, so please bring a maximum of three changes of clothing and pajamas. Toiletries are available if needed. Valuables are best left at home or with family or friends.
Please note the following restrictions:
You will not be allowed to use cell phones or other electronic devices.
Belts, lighters, knives, weapons, money and sharp objects are not allowed.
No food, candy, drink or gum is allowed to be brought in from outside the facility.
Pathways is not responsible for lost or stolen valuables.
Pathways is a tobacco-free facility.
To Keep in Mind
Please bring a written list of your current medications. It is best to leave your medications at home or with family or friends.
You might not be prescribed the same medications you are currently taking.
Private rooms are not available.
Lengths of stay vary and are determined after a patient has been evaluated by the treatment team.
For your safety, you will be searched prior to transfer to Pathways and upon arrival.
Patient Forms
All patients must fill out and sign the
Patient Consent and Financial Agreement form
Voluntary Admission Packet
Emergency Detention Admission Packet
Adult Admission Paperwork
Adolescent Admission Paperwork
Patient Information
Click on the link below to review Kalispell Regional Healthcare's notice of privacy practices, patient consent and financial agreement, advance directives, patient rights and responsibilities, organizational code of ethics, messages from Medicare and Tricare, and truth in lending.
Patient Rights and Policies


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Gardenieres host William Moss discusses vertical gardening and making the most of vertical space. From bougainvillea to climbing roses to grapes, don't waste your space when you can garden up and grow them vertically!
Gardenieres: Vertical Gardening with William Moss
Got questions about this article or any other garden topic? Go here now to post your gardening ideas, questions, kudos or complaints. We have gardening experts standing by to help you!


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ACIS – Automated Cake Icing System
One of the original high production systems from Unifiller. The ACIS is your answer to complete post production for your line of round cakes. From pick and place to mid fill, top and side icing and decorating, the ACIS can do it all!
System Features and Benefits:
- Automated batter depositing
- Pick and place cake layers
- Middle filling cake layers
- Top and side icing cake layers
- Decorating round and/or rectangular cakes
- Computerized production speeds
- Performance monitoring
- Touch screen operator controlled
Section 179 Deductions for this Line
Specifications vary per Line. Contact us directly for more info.
Up to 8 cakes per minute
Air: 4 CFM @ 80 psi per station
110 or 220 VAC
Full washdown
No tools required


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True big 5 free range hunting in a wilderness area. Crusader Safaris hunts the Balule, part of the Greater Kruger area for Buffalo and Elephant.
Crusader Safaris has secured the hunting rights on a significant portion of the Balule. This is a large unfenced area and forms a part of the "Greater Kruger conservancy"
The Balule is managed by the APNR (association of private nature reserves) that controls 650 000 acres of free range big game country on the west of the famous Kruger national park. Buffalo, Elephant, Leopard, Lion and Rhino all occur naturally in this area.
Our Buffalo hunt is a 7-day hunt. Hunters fly into Hoedspruit, a short commercial flight from Johannesburg. A Buffalo hunt can easily be combined with some great free range plains game hunting in either the Umkommas valley or the Baviaansriver.
The Balule is a true wilderness area where all of the big 5 occur naturally. To be able to hunt Buffalo and Elephant in this environment is a truly authentic dangerous game hunt.
Our camp is an old rustic hunting camp in the Balule hunting area. Enjoy evenings around the fire listening to the roar of Lion, Leopard, Hyena hunting and all the other unique sounds of a true African wilderness area. Sitting around a lead wood fire in the evenings taking in this experience while discussing the days hunt is very enjoyable.
Rooms are en suite and have electricity and hot water. Around the log fire and outside cooking area is where most evenings are spent.
All Buffalo and Elephant are hunted on foot, tracking is a big part of the hunt and a great experience in the flat Lowveld terrain. After a good breakfast at camp hunters will usually take a packed lunch to be enjoyed in the field, under a shade tree usually watching a waterhole. You can expect to return to camp in the evening to enjoy a sundowner, camp fire and the sounds of wilderness Africa.


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|» Products
|» Government Flags
Government Flags
Government Flags are used as the symbol as well as emblem of a state, institution, etc. They give identities to militaries, forces, cadets and other with their different designs and styles. They feature particular designs and patterns that recall legends as well as events. They are designed from high-quality fabric and threads to ensure long lasting life. As they give tribute to the military forces and their honor, they are available in fine finishing and legible content.
Features of Government Flags:


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Dream Theater (left to right): Mike Mangini, Petrucci, James LaBrie, Myung,
and Jordan Rudess. Photo by Michael Lavine
Like where they're hearing the accents in, say, an asymmetrical phrase?
Myung: Yeah. Like, would you think of 9/8 as 6/8 then 3/8 or 3/8 then 6/8? It's a total feel thing, but it's sort of like, "Are we on the same page, musically?"
Tell us about the writing sessions for the new album.
Myung: It reminded me of the early days, when it was just me sitting in front of John and Jordan [Rudess, keyboards] and saying, "I'll play this part, you play this part, and we'll record it." A lot of the early stuff was stuff I would first work on with John and Kevin [Moore, original DT keyboardist] and then we would bring it to the band. But once our [1992] album, Images and Words, took off and went gold, we were just like this machine. We started touring and writing and doing everything together.
So, in some ways, this was like we were back to the beginning. It was a combination of writing as a group and not as a group. The sessions were really mellow and laidback. We were all playing at acoustic volumes, which made the dynamics of the communication different. It felt less on the go and more meditative.
Petrucci: I had stuff that I worked on ahead of time—demos, songs, and my riff library—but, ultimately, John, Jordan, and I went into the studio and wrote together. As we were writing, we demoed it all. I programmed the drums using Superior Drummer in Logic. After we finished the songs, we sent them to Mike Mangini. About two-and-a-half months later, when we came to record, he had templates of all the songs—all the tempo maps and markers. It's pretty incredible to watch and record somebody like that. He came in and brought everything to life. It's a lesson for all professional musicians out there—not only about being incredibly skilled and gifted, but also about being prepared.
How do you balance maintaining and/or furthering your prodigious technique while working on the demanding live set and committing it to memory?
Petrucci: Things go in stages. Right now, my focus is on the fact that I know I have to tour, and the first show is September 24, so I have to be able to play such and such songs. There's a whole process of learning them—isolating the guitars and going back and learning what I played—then memorizing it and practicing the difficult parts. It's not the time to be searching out and practicing new things: The focus is the short-term goal. Once I get comfortable and I'm on the road, or when the tour cycle is done and I'm home, then I can take a deep breath and start asking questions again, start learning new things.
Myung: I'll know what the set is going to be at least a month prior to a tour. Then I put myself on a schedule where I at least run through every song once a day, going through the set for two or three hours. Some of the songs are really long, so it can take over ten minutes to get through it once. Even if you've played it for an hour, you've only gotten through it five times or so. Our set is like two hours, and we'll have a master set with extra songs in it, so maybe there will be—from start to finish—like, three hours of material to run through. Then, slowly it starts to come together.
Apart from just running through the set, I also have to get my hands to do what I want them to do, which is a whole other thing where I just warm up. I have a certain procedure that I do with my hands before I feel totally dialed in. It's two or three hours of subtle movements. And it's not anything that I learned from a book, it's just playing.
Are you able to find time to do this every day?
Myung: It's a part of my life now, so I need to do it. And before every show I have to do it.
You run through the whole two-hour routine before every show?
Myung: Yep. Absolutely. Usually, we'll drive overnight on a bus, check into a hotel, and soundcheck will be sometime after 4 o'clock, and then we're usually on at 9. Between soundcheck and the actual showtime—as soon as soundcheck is over—I disappear and find a room, then immediately start my sequence. It really has to be that way, because you can't give it your all and feel good about what you're doing if your hands, if the physical side of things isn't ready. You have to condition yourself to be able to play the way you want to play.


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Rain rain go away, come again another day. Preferably, a day when we haven't planned a barbecue please.
It has rained a lot though, hasn't it? Like, a lot a lot. Almost every day in the last week for us, and the days ahead aren't looking much better. In fact, if I look at BBC Weather for the next week, it's all grey, clouds and rain.
Of course, being British, I've come to expect nothing more from the summer weather. But is it really too much to ask to have a picnic without having to bring the umbrellas, 'just incase'.
We've been out for a few picnics this week. Most of them were Pokemon motivated, because if you're going to hang out at a pokestop you might as well bring food, right? We don't want to let the weather dictate where and when we can play Pokemon, so we've been braving the grey skies. Lets just say we've been glad of our decision to bring our brollies with us.
I took this photo on one of our outings, and it really makes me giggle. While others were running for their cars at the first droplet of water falling from the sky, we chose to stand defiant in the face of mother nature. 'No, we won't let you ruin our summer you miserable old so and so.' Jokes aside, this really has been our week. Propping our umbrellas over us like a makeshift tent, as we sit on an ever dampening picnic blanket trying to get as many pokeballs as we can before home time. (Hey, I'm not sure I mentioned this, but we're kind of in to Pokemon Go at the moment?)
Unfortunately, even this fun activity might be at its end, for now at least. Not long after this photo was taken, the waterproof lining of our picnic blanket ripped beyond repair. We weren't very impressed, having paid a tenner for it only a few weeks ago! Without it's lining it's virtually unusable, particularly in the current climate. I don't fancy a soggy bum every time I sit down for a sandwich! To top it off, my umbrella went skew-whiff too, and ended up in the bin once we got home.
In all seriousness though, I really do hope the rain buggers off for a bit. We have such much we want to do over the summer, and so far it's been a bit of a wash out. An umbrella and wellies are great for the odd outing, but being soaked through every time you go out is no fun at all. So, if everyone could get outside and start begging the sky spirits for some sunshine, Mama would be one happy lemur.
Incase you hadn't guessed it, my word of the week this week is rain. I hope you've all had a great week!
Linking up with Word of the Week.


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On April 25, the fourth anniversary of Hart's Corner Bar & Restaurant reopening on the corner of Mississippi and Sheridan Boulevard, I drove past the old roadhouse — hailed as Lakewood's oldest business — and saw that it had gone dark again, ninety years after it first opened. Over the decades the place has gone through a number of transformations, from the original root-beer stand to a barbecue joint/gas station in the '30s, to diner-style restaurant in the '50s, then to a biker bar and nightclub.
Jefferson County Planning & Zoning offers this account:
One of the stops made by stagecoaches, wagons and travelers on horseback was the Old Store's place, Westfield Farm, on the southwest corner of the Sheridan-Mississippi intersection. Because this primitive trail was one of the early routes into present day Lakewood, it gave the intersection of South Sheridan and West Mississippi historical significance. In 1908, Leo Hart and Lena Fischer married and in the early 1920s they bought property on the north side of Morrison Road and South Sheridan Blvd. Hart turned the old root beer stand into a small restaurant and called it Hart's Corner. Built in 1924, this vernacular wood frame structure had additions added on until 1950. The bar and restaurant is an irregular plan, 56' long and 48' wide, with a hipped roof. Deciding to cater to the cars as well as the motorists, Hart's installed four gas pumps in front of the eatery around 1926. By 1929 he was earning a comfortable living and bought 90 acres of land which extend south to Louisiana Avenue to build a brick house. He also put up a grocery store across from his restaurant, with eight cabins with garages for the tourist trade. These later were expanded to 16. Hart also had a 1,000 foot deep well drilled which supplied his home and business with pure water....Leo Hart died in 1939 and Tommy Hart operated the family business until his death in 1978.
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That's when the Moustos family bought the building. And in 2011, they took it back over from the couple that had been leasing it. "We spent the last three months tenderly bringing this back to the way it was," Nick Moustos, who'd managed Hart's Corner form 1978 to 1980, told us right before Hart's reopened on April 25, 2011. "We're just bringing it back to what it was: a family gathering place, where families would come in with their kids and feel comfortable. And that's what it's going to be."
For a while at least; old photos on the wall documented the various stages of the spot, and regulars would gather to eat dinner and listen to the fancy new jukebox. But then the Moustos passed the place on to new owners, and it began collecting police reports. Lots of police reports, as well as liquor-license violations. One evening a few nights before I last stopped in, one customer bit off a piece of another customer's ear. In February 2014, a man was shot outside the bar. The last Facebook post was made on August 2014, when the owners surrendered the liquor license rather than face a hearing, and the place has been closed up tight since then. It's back with the Moustos family, its next phase uncertain.
But one thing is certain: In a town where institutions are quickly disappearing, the ninety-year-old Hart's should beat again.


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Fellow parents, a word of advice.
Do not, under any circumstances, have a phone chat with your partner the day before a much-needed date getaway that you've been waiting on for two months, and for goodness' sake, don't elaborate upon how much you need it.
Even more important, absolutely do not say (flippantly) something to the effect of, "Something will happen between now and then – a kid will start throwing up or something…"
Guess how many of our kids started ralphing between last night and this morning?
I'll give you a hint – it's not just one.
Fortunately, my inlaws are amazing and kept the kids anyway, so we were able to go on our date. We went to World of Beer at Easton, first, and the bartender tells me about the three types of mead they have on tap. She asked, "Do you just want me to bring out samples of all of them?"
When is the answer to that ever "No" ?
Happy Valentine's Day. I hope yours didn't involve any barfing.
Featured image from Brigitte Tohm.


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Gintama at Animate Girls Festival 2013
Nov. 2, 2013 - Nov. 3, 2013
Ikebukuro Sunshine City
Official site
Animate Girls Festival, as you may have guessed from its name, is an annual exhibition showcasing goods directed at female anime fans! And to no one's surprise, Gintama managed to make a small appearance among titles like Attack on Titan, Meganebu!, Free!, and Diabolik Lovers.
G.E.M. Series Sakata Gintoki - New ver.
The prototype of the second Gintoki G.E.M. figurine was displayed at the festival. G.E.M. is a figure line by MegaHouse who produces higher-end quality figurines of characters from various anime. Although this line is directed to females, characters like Elizabeth, Kagura, and Kyubei have made appearances as well.
Gintoki's first G.E.M. figurine originally released in 2010 had many incarnations, such as Benizakura, Renewal, and Yamcha.
Price, release date, and pre-order date to be announced.
The G.E.M. Hijikata Toshiro ver. Kai was displayed beside this prototype. It was released in September, 2013.
Gintama (Anime ver.) Blanket
This Ginpachi blanket was on pre-sale on the AGF shop for 4,000円 through mail order. It's 1000x750mm and in full color.


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Source Toothbrush by Radius
The Source Toothbrush by Radius is like no other toothbrush. The toothbrush doesn't look like it was manufactured as much as it looks like it was born. The sleek and soft curves wrap a form that just begs to be picked up. When the brush hits your hand, it has an instantly familiar feel. The brush head is oversized, which can feel strange the first couple times you use it, but that goes away and the over-large head replaces your idea of a normal-sized brush. The large head does a thorough job of cleaning both the teeth and gum line and is easily replaceable once it starts to run ragged. The Source gets its green cred from the recycled materials used to form the handle, made from flax, wood or dollar bills.


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About Fuel Fitness
A different kind of company
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Candy corn has long been associated with fall and Halloween since it was first invented in the 1880′s. Even though it is available year round, sales for the candy increase around this time. One of the top retailers for candy corn reports that they sell enough candy corn each year that if all the kernels were laid end to end they would circle the earth 4.25 times! Another fun fact about candy corn; during the Halloween season in eastern Canada a blueberry cobbler candy corn can be found. (I'm going to have to try and find that!)
These days candy corn isn't just for eating, and while you can literally decorate with the fun little treats, here are some candy corn decorations and costumes made from fabric.
Does anyone eat candy corn any time of the year other than Halloween?