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I woke up yesterday morning to a text from my twin. He had just left a high dopamine event (like a concert) and wanted to communicate how happy he is that we’ve reconnected recently, and just overall how he couldn’t be happier with the way things are going between us. It made my heart sing. After 7 years we are officially dating with intentions for a serious relationship.
Just knowing he was feeling good and thought of me in that moment, plus wanted to share how he feels puts me in lala land 🥰
We’ve come so far in our progress.

This is an excerpt because my first chapter needs revision
Even if the world was almost destroyed 250 years ago we sure were able to come a long way in that time. It was great enough that me and Thomas’ parents would try so hard to be able to live here.
At first glance it was beautiful like a dream. Sector 3 was one of the best Districts except 1 and 2.
It buzzed with life with people on their way to work and wherever they needed to go. Cars hovered over the ground at speeds of 20 to 30 miles per hour. They made a sort of buzzing noise that was music to my ears. The smells of food cooking in fancy restaurants attacked my nostrils hoping to draw my attention and buy their food. Good thing I had a hearty breakfast because I don’t think I could afford any of them right now. Teenagers like me hung out with their hoverboards doing all types of tricks that could easily backfire in a nearby park. They had neon colored hair, mohawks along with other choices in fashion that my school and I just don’t agree with. Other businesses such as hospitals, hair salons, movie theaters also seemed to attract crowds like a magnet. I even passed by the hospital my mom worked at. It was a huge dark skyscraper with a spacious parking lot with its name Healing Haven Hospital in bright colored letters at the top.
Sector 3 was a great place to live if you could afford it. Although If you looked hard enough you noticed the people that failed to make ends meet. In the slums people slept in man made houses of trash and boxes. Others smoked and did drugs which was kind of illegal. Either they weren’t caught or the soldiers didn’t care enough to check. Children wearing dirty rags who were so skinny you could count their ribs rummaged through trash and fought over any spoils. It wasn’t fair that this greedy government would place laws and taxes that would force them to suffer this horrible fate. I need money whether or not it's legal as long as it can keep my family fed and happy.
15 minutes after I left the house I finally reached the train station. I got off my hoverboard and got in line and thankfully it wasn’t that long. When I reached the doors, I almost had a heart attack. Guarding the door where two sentinels armed to the teeth carrying large guns and dressed in their signature white bulletproof armor.
“Pay up please,” the one on the right said as he stretched out his hand. He held a device that would collect the money you need to take to ride the train.
“Okay,” I agreed with a nervous voice.
I took out my own phone and paid. I was able to get a seat on the train I was keeping all to myself with no troubles.
After we started moving I finally was able to let myself relax. I thought I was this close to being arrested before I could do anything illegal today.
Sentinels are usually stationed in places such as banks and homes of important people like governors. But this is the first time I’ve seen them deployed at a train station. I remember when I wanted to be one when I was a kid and go to District 2 to make lots of money but my parents made me give up that dream. District 2 specializes in military and security. That was where soldiers trained and lived. Higher Ups also had access to a luxurious life in a fancy mansion and more money than what they actually needed. This is where the hovercrafts that soared the sky providing surveillance were built and maintained. Where Epizon’s forces that would protect our country from its threats could prepare for any possibility. Prepare for what I always ask. Most of the world has been destroyed. Africa has never shown any hostility to us. No, they’re just here to enforce this tyrannical government and eliminate any that may possess abilities.
I grabbed my headphones from my backpack and played my favorite songs. At least I can enjoy the view.
It was like I was flying as the train soared through the sky on a railway that snaked throughout the city. Never actually touching since the train was connected through powerful electromagnets saving both energy and money. The city looked even more impressive when you had a bird’s eye view.
Couples and families enjoyed picnics on tables at the Liberty State Park. People walked in and out of the Interpretive Center where history from about 300 years was taught. It still had memorials dedicated to remembering events like what happened centuries ago at 9/11. Now there’s a huge memorial dedicated to those who fought to save us from the Enhanced. It's still so hard to believe that people with super powers exist. I’ve learned about them in history class but they seem so unreal. I’ve never seen somebody shoot fire or fly so either the military is really good at their job or this is all made up.
District 3 of the great utopia Epizon. Named after the Greek word for survivor. When the continents Australia, Europe, South America, and Asia were destroyed in World War Three. By the Enhanced who gained powers that almost destroyed the world. Thankfully, the remnants of North America were able to stand up and defeat all the Enhanced people and create the amazing paradise we live in.
It sounds so unreal it has to be propaganda to control the Sectors.
We flew over the Hudson River Walkway. It was my favorite view on the train ride because I loved the way sunlight would reflect off the pristine turquoise waters. It's a shame we don’t really get to swim or fish though. That’s probably for the best.
The rest of the train ride went fast and before I knew it I was at my stop. I grabbed my hoverboard and raced to school because the Victor can’t be late.
While this District has its downsides it could really get a lot worse from here. However, District 1 was the real paradise. It was where the most important people with the most standing lived. The President, his wife, and other high ranking government officials lived there. In enormous mansions separated by acres where all the other people who enforced laws and taxes that made it difficult for my parents to live and provide for us.
But District 3 was the best place where people who are more fortunate like me could live. As long as you were skilled enough and worked hard enough. My mom was a somewhat prominent doctor at one of the biggest hospitals in this District. District 3 specializes in a lot of fields but the one it specializes in is medical science. Medicine, prosthetics, you can get the best of them from here. And my dad was vice president at a company that released some of the best virtual reality games. Entertainment is just as important as health in Epizon. Which meant I sometimes received popular games before everyone else. I remember so many times my parents and I would play together exploring outer space, fighting monsters. My parents are so cool, right?
You’d think that our life would be a little more luxurious and it was. Unfortunately, the selfish government increased taxes and fees from school started to pile up. As the victor in sophomore year I was exempt from those rules as long as I remained Victor. But my parents have yet to completely finish paying all those debts.
It's dangerous to get lost in your thoughts when you’re traveling 3 feet off the ground at 15 miles per hour on a hoverboard because you might end up running into a moving car. Thankfully, I managed to stop just in time.
“So, the Victor almost crashes to a fatal stop. It would be sad, you know. I’d hate for my best friend to die like that.”
I knew that voice.
I turned around and noticed that mischievous grin with sharp teeth I was so familiar with. With his strong red eyes and messy black hair he could’ve been a criminal. Well he technically should be but we’re too smart to get caught.
“Thomas, how’re you?” I asked as I got off my hoverboard.
“Oh, nothing, just waiting for you,” he replied. “I knew you’d show up here to catch the levitrain.”
He gave me a hug and somehow managed to pick me up and spin me around like something a kid would ask their parents to do.
“How’re you doing my best friend? Did you actually get a huge extravagant meal because I just did. My mom just got paid and she didn’t save a single epi.”
“Yeah, I actually did and so I can actually keep my breakfast and not throw up let me down.”
“Sure!”
“How’re you so strong anyway? I know you work out but are you seriously that strong. Don’t tell me you actually have super strength.”
“I hope I don’t. Life sucks as is but it would get even worse if I suddenly awakened superpowers.”
I feel the same. It’s rough but we can make it better.
“Fistbump!”
We always managed to read each other’s minds.
“Are you ready for these physicals?” I asked.
“I’m so sick of those things,” he replied. “Oh, it’s time for us to cross.”
We both got on our hoverboards and raced towards school.
“Don’t worry about it, you're strong and you’re pretty muscular,” I assured him. “But, I hope you’re not strong enough to throw a car or something.”
“Don’t worry about it, I've already tried. Nah, I’m kidding.”
“So, are we doing that job today,” Thomas asked with a mischievous grin.
“You know it,” I said.
CHAPTER 2
Now you have to admit our school was pretty impressive.
First of all, it was gigantic. It sort of resembled a castle but really high tech in blue, red, and white colors. In the middle FutureTech was printed in red and blue and was highlighted in white. The dorms were on the left side. And the rest of the other facilities and equipment was in the other half. This was FutureTech, a place which was probably the best school a student could ask for. Less than 20% of those who apply here make the cut. And the majority of them were rich kids who could afford to pay the tuition. Me and Thomas barely made it and it was really tough. But we both worked hard and eventually I became the Victor. One of the perks of being a Victor that must’ve been in place for people like us was that the Victor could choose anyone who didn’t have as much money as the others to be their second in command. They would be exempt from the tuition and other crazy rules. Did you know you have to pay a security fee after a year?
Crazy.
But those only applied if the other guy had good grades and a clean track record. But only as long as I’m the Victor and if either of us do anything that breaks the rules we’ll both be kicked out. Talk about pressure.
But this was the best place to learn anything really. Law, business, art, engineering and other sciences. And it could all be done here.
The school had defenses in place to protect the lives of students and staff. An electromagnetic barrier surrounded the entire establishment. Stretching out a few acres across outside the building. If you wanted to get in you had to get through the one gate in the front. At the gate there were security cameras, x-rays, and 10 armed Sentinels just for extra security. The security was just as intense inside making it nearly impossible to do anything that violated the rules. They didn’t waste a single epi.
“Man, the security of this place is unnerving as always,” Thomas complained.
“It never fails to show me just how out of place we are.”
“Of course the security is advanced. The children of really important people receive education here. This helps them make sure they aren’t kidnapped. I do agree it's unnerving but at least it’s secure. Besides you and I both deserve to be here”
We walked through the sliding doors and saw just how beautiful the school was inside.
The place was illuminated by golden lights. Robots made clunky noises while drones wizzed over my head. I could barely hear myself think over the voices of other students. Girls argued over petty things like their hairstyles and whose boyfriend was better. While boys competed to see who’s stronger or more handsome. Rainbow colors flashed from the lab to the right. Future doctors practiced their skills on mannequins in the lab at the left.
“Hey, look, it's the Victor!”
Soon, the whole school had their eyes on me.
Girls and boys waved and applauded. Even the ones on the second floor whooped and jumped around. Not everyone felt the same though. Some students snickered and sneered while others glared with hatred and jealousy. Even when you work hard to be at the top not everyone will appreciate it.
“You’re popular,” Thomas remarked.
“Too bad not everyone is a fan. You still got the ladies cheering for you. You think you could give them a good word about me?” Thomas joked.
“You know that’s not how it is. We’re on different levels in society. I lose my title as Victor and I fade into the background.”
“Besides, you're smart and strong. Try hard enough and you could get a girlfriend. Just don’t let anyone catch on to our extracurricular activities.”
“Look at that smug smile on his face,” a voice rang out.
“It must be nice to be the Victor's lap dog. I could use that so explain why it is getting wasted on that idiot.”
“ He thinks he’s so strong and mighty just because of that stupid pin. Wait till I get my hands on it, fool.”
“He should watch out. It’d be unfortunate if an accident were to happen. No one would miss some commoners who couldn’t support themselves without that Victor title.”
“Who is that?” Thomas demanded.
“If I find out who they are they won’t have to worry about creating any accident.”
“Chill out Thomas. None of them have the guts or smarts to try anything. Besides, together there’s nothing they can do to either of us.”
“You’re right. We have brains and muscles,” he said as he flexed his arms.
I don’t blame some of them though. Kids who weren’t super wealthy but still made it could use the privileges I got from this title. There were also the selfish rich kids who had more money than they really needed. But I couldn't bear to see someone work hard to achieve something they couldn’t. It makes me so sick sometimes. Our parents do our best just to put a roof over our heads and pay taxes. But I became Victor and that’s a problem. I apologize but I’m not giving it up anytime soon.
“ So what’s first on Victor's schedule?”
“First, we have History class. Then, I have to give a report on quantum physics. Then we have lunch right before the physicals.”
“Well, while you’re doing your fancy report on quantum psychics I’m doing one on the state of this Sector. There’s so many children and families without homes. If I simply beg them nothing will happen. I’ll convince them why they should lend money and support to those who really deserve it. They can train adults to help reinforce the Walls. Add them to the military. Children can also be useful for things. Think about all the new medications they could try by using sick children. They could also put extremely smart children to work in engineering. Even the government can’t ignore the potential of children if given the right environment.”
Good old Thomas is always thinking of ways to help those in need. He takes every advantage and tool he can if it means he can improve the lives of his mother’s and others. More reason for me to fight to stay the Victor.
“Thomas, I have a question.”
“What is it?” he asked.
“Let’s say if you can do what you plan. What if some of those who you’re helping have powers?”
Thomas' face darkened as he stopped his stride.
I hate to do this to him but what if some of those he’s trying to help are Enhanced. People who have done nothing wrong superpowers or not don’t deserve to be hurt out of fear and hatred. Especially if it was because my best friend was only trying to genuinely help.
“I’m not sure. I can already imagine what the government would do if they got their hands on Enhanced people. But if I can only help people with no powers who actually need it. Am I wrong to try even if it could hurt others?”
Thomas’ statement really made me think. The government will hunt those with powers without question. But if he can help the others is that really so wrong? If only we could get the power and authority to change Epizon for the better. A place where rich or poor, normal or superpowered don’t matter. The only thing that you’ll be judged on is your character.
But I guess we’ve got to help our families and graduate first.
“Let’s go Thomas. We can both think about that later. But first let’s catch an elevator to the third floor and learn more history. YAY!!”
“Ok! I’ll race you!”
In 5 minutes we made it to History class before we could’ve been marked late. Seriously, why does Mr. Rodrigo’s class has to be all the way at the end of the hallway.
We took our seats in the front with Thomas right behind me and got ready.
Mr. Rodrigo was an intimidating man. He was 6ft 6 inches tall. He had an even more muscular body than Thomas and his platinum blonde hair was as tidy as always. But the most frightening part was his silver right arm prosthetic which I swore could punch through steel. No student turned in work late in this class. We had a Veteran soldier, not some pushover.
“Today, in class we’ll be discussing World War Three and what led to it 250 years ago!” Mr Rodrigo announced.
The projector in front turned on into an educational video to teach us about the history of Epizon.
This is how the story went. Over 250 years the Earth was a beautiful place. All the major continents and countries were still thriving and Epizon was known as North America. It was a place where all races were equal. And people could enjoy nature and the same standards of living. No one went hungry and people could afford anything they could ever want. Yeah right.
However, this peace and prosperity was interrupted when the Chosen rebelled. When the greatest scientists of North America were able to give selected people superpowers to make sure peace could continue to prosper. However, the Chosen got drunk on their new powers. They betrayed our country and killed those who gave them their powers to make sure no one could fight against them. After taking full control of our country they waged war on the rest of the world, Starting World War Three. However, other major world powers also developed their own Chosen. In the next 10 years Asia, South America, Europe, and Australia were completely destroyed.
However, our country’s usurpers had almost destroyed themselves in the war. While they grew complacent with their powers we built up our resources in secret. When they attempted to heal their wounds we launched a counter strike against them. Using whatever tactics it took from air strikes, snipings, and more. A major part was thanks to a specially created poison that could weaken those with powers and even kill them. We finally won over them and took our country back. To celebrate we named our country Epizon and split it into 20 Sectors. The most crucial people in the war effort against the former Chosen were elected to be governors, secretaries with the President on top. With their descendants guiding Epizon to greatness and equality centuries later.
What a load of bull.
This country isn’t fair or equal at all! My parents struggle just to pay stupid bills! I go on these stupid jobs just to make sure me and my best friend's family don’t have to sleep on the streets. The horrible fate of those who couldn’t make it haunts me everytime I go around the city. One doesn’t even have a fair chance of becoming a politician if they aren't related to one.
I got so mad I snapped my pen in half. A waste of a perfectly good pen.
“Mark, are you good?” Thomas whispered.
“Yes, I’m fine. Sorry just lost my temper-”
A metal fist slammed into my table.
“Mr. Mark, is there a reason why you and your friend are interrupting class. Do you perhaps feel that as the Victor you have nothing to learn from this topic.”
The rest of the class snickered and snorted.
“Actually no Thomas and I were comparing the earliest of Epizon to now to highlight just how much our country has grown. I apologize if we interrupted your class.”
“Oh really. Well since you already know this class backwards and forwards you can teach the class. In fact, you can educate them on the Bloody River Incident. Consider this a test. And I do hope you know your facts. After all, I was the only survivor of that horrible massacre ”
The Bloody River Incident was a catastrophe where 1,000 died. I only learned about it last year because whenever the aftermath turned on the news my parents removed it.
“I’d love to educate our class on Epizon’s history, Mr. Rodrigo.”
Three years ago the Sentinels launched an attack on a refugee camp of Enhanced in Sector 4. Unfortunately, the battalion of 1,000 Sentinels was all wiped out. It got its title for the color the Hudson River turned when the blood of fallen soldiers mixed in. The security for schools, banks, and other “important” places increased. Of course they never bothered with things like public transportation until recently.
“Anytime this year,” Mr. Rodrigo complained.
Why did I have to get a pop quiz today?
Chapter 3
“Finally, we get to go to lunch,” Thomas cheered.
“Did you bring anything today?”
“I was super lucky today. My mom made this huge spread so I’ve got some leftover pancakes, bacon and some eggs. What about you?”
“Oh nothing so special. My mom was still at work so I gathered up some things and made lasagna.”
“Your mom’s super awesome lasagna,” I wondered.
“I’ll share some with you if you share with me,” he said.
Thanks to the insulated lunch box Thomas’ food was still warm. The aroma of all the wonderful spices gave me delight.
“Sure. One of the special privileges I get to enjoy is your mom’s lasagna. After all the school lunch is too expensive and while it may be high class food. It still pales in comparison to homemade food made with love.”
“Isn’t that right? So Mark, what do you want to do once you graduate? We can’t be criminals forever.”
“I was thinking about starting a company using our inventions. I’ve been talking to my dad about it and if I can remain the Victor until I graduate. It will be a great sales pitch especially if we can improve our projects. Even Epizon can’t deny geniuses who can make their country even greater.”
“You’re right. How did your Dad like our skeleton key?”
“He wasn’t fond of it at all. He said he didn’t want us to use our intellect to make weapons. Instead, we should work with my mom to find ways we can help people. For example, my mom’s a neurosurgeon. Sentinels who’ve suffered grievous injuries in training exercises will be looking for someone who can really fix them. Paralysis, loss of motor control, even the prosthetics they use sometimes malfunction.”
I took out my laptop and typed a few buttons. In three minutes I pulled a sort of research paper I made in my spare time.
“I’ve heard that some nervous systems are unable to handle the stress of handling new prostheses. And the more prosthesis they implant the more the increase in side effects. Some soldiers sign up for weaponized implants to improve their combat powers. I heard they can even copy some powers like pyrokinesis or super strength.”
“That’s crazy. Anyways I’m hungry. Let's discuss this after lunch.”
We’ll need all the energy we can get.
We split the food both ways and chowed down.
Thomas took out a mini speaker and started playing rock music. Before we knew it we started using the forks and spoons we had as music instruments. We tapped and beat to the music. But we calmed down a little when we received glares. We can’t be looking foolish.
The cafeteria was big enough to carry two hovercrafts. It had gold chandeliers and pristine white walls. Tables ranging for 1, for 2, and 4 were scattered out. Robots taking orders, collecting checks, and bringing food raced around on high tech wheels. The air was packed with aromas from dishes prepared by some of the best chefs in Epizon. However, what I despised the most wasn’t the high cost of food that made me avoid relying on school lunch. But the snot nosed rich kids who went out of their way to bring their own fancy dresses and suits just for the cafeteria. I mean are you serious? And the school allowed them to do it as long as it was just for lunch. I pitied the other kids who stood out because they weren’t in the position to waste the few good clothes they had. I certainly could agree with that. These kids would dance, sing loud and do whatever else that was annoying.
On our table just for two that was far away from the majority we ate our lunch in peace.
“Your mom’s lasagna is just as good as it’s always been Thomas. I could never quite recreate it even when you gave me the recipe.”
“Of course you couldn’t. It’s a secret skill that can only be learned by my bloodline.”
HAAH! HAAH!! HAAH!!!
Would it be too much to ask if we could just laugh like this forever.
“I see you’re enjoying yourself Victor.”
Someone just had to ruin the fun.
I heard the tip tapping of shoes from right behind me. One girl, two boys.
“I hate this guy. Why’d he even come to this school? He should have just been homeschooled in his nice mansion in Sector 1.”
“Come on, commoner. You should be grateful to be blessed for me to come to you. Your lap dog should feel grateful too.”
“This guy,” Thomas growled.
He grabbed a chair and sat right in the middle of us. His lackeys stayed right behind him.
The aggressor was the son of the President, the most powerful man in Epizon. He was tall for 15 6ft 3 inches. His white skin had no freckle, zit, or pimple in sight. His red eyes went well with the red highlights in his hair. Usually dying your hair isn’t allowed but when you’re the President’s son you get to break a few rules.
His two lackeys are Merle, daughter of Sector 4’s Governor, and Sector 3’s Secretary Charles.
“Jason. It’s time for us to eat lunch. What would you like to order?” Merle asked.
“Knowing Jason he’s going to order whatever’s the most expensive thing on the menu,” Charles answered.
“That’s right I Jason Powers sit at the top of Epizon. I come from a line of great people like secretaries, governors, generals, and revolutionary scientists. Someone of my standing deserves nothing less than the best.”
“Very well, I shall place your order now.”
Jason pointed at me.
“But what are you eating Victor? What’s on your plate? Pancakes,eggs,lasagna. I won’t allow someone as esteemed as the Victor to eat from such a shabby diet. At this school you’re one of the only people at this school at my level. Maybe I should order the second most expensive thing on this menu.”
“Ok!”
“What-” both Thomas and him exclaimed.
“If possible, can I take it to go?”
Look I’m not passing up free high class food even if I don’t like the guy that’s offering.
“Guess I’ll order it then. I’ll take something to get Waiter-bot!”
In response a nearby Waiter-bot rushed over.
“Hey, what are you doing?” Thomas whispered.
“Look, I'm not turning down free food. Maybe I’ll give it to my parents.”
“And what about your third string?”, he addressed Thomas.
Thomas jumped out of his seat and looked like he was about to start a fight. Thankfully, his smart to know that’s a bad idea.
“Considering you’re the lowest person here. Should I buy you the fifth most expensive dish? Or did that restaurant your mom owns mean you don’t need it. It used to be so high-class you know but ever since Father placed those taxes you haven’t been doing so well. You’re still successful, sure but your mom must be struggling to run it.”
Thomas was about to raise his fist but I quickly smacked it down.
“He’ll take it and thanks for your kind consideration.”
“If you need anything, here's my card. I may take pity on you.”
In 20 minutes the Waiterbots brought our food after Jason and his lackeys left.
We had Massaman curry, wagyu beef, Japanese sushi and other delicacies.
“WHY! Why would you accept that he’s mocking us!”
“But he’s giving us free food Thomas,” I leaned in to whisper.
“We literally do all these illegal side jobs that could get us and our families in danger if we’re found out. So we can provide for them. You think I’m passing up free food.”
Thomas' expression finally relaxed.
“You’re right it’s like you said free food is free food.”
The loudspeakers in the cafeteria shouted out loud:
“Will the Victor please come down to the basement prepared for the assessment.”
Voices from the crowd erupted.
“So, the Victor is going first?”
“I’m glad it’s not me.”
“What if he has powers? What if the Sentinels can’t bring him down?” We can’t leave until the assessments are over.”
“I hope he doesn’t come back. Then, I can be the Victor.”
“You think it’s going to be you. It’s going to be me.”
Why did it have to be me first? I wish these kids would shut up, they're making it worse.
“What are these brats talking about? Half of these brats couldn’t hope to be as good as you or me for that matter so they shouldn’t get their hopes up. The only thing stopping Jason from being Victor is you so there’s that.”
Thomas is always there to cheer me up.
“Well, I’ll put this food in our lockers so we can eat them after school. That’s if I actually see you again.”
“Yeah, yeah I hope you can’t shoot fire or fly too because then I’d be in trouble.”
“HAAH!! HAAH!! HAAH!!”
“Don’t do your best Mark, I'll see you later.”
After changing into my gym clothes I was escorted by 4 sentinels to the basement. It was only accessible by a special elevator built for that purpose alone. After what was probably 4 whole minutes with people who were ready to fill me up with lead. We finally arrived at the basement.
The Basement was where the annual assessment to discover if a student possessed super powers.
You see Enhanced have this sort of bioelectric aura that they emit that couldn’t be recognized using the human senses. They can only only be recognized using incredibly advanced technology. if an Enhanced got enough experience with their abilities, they could hide their bioelectric aura from machines too. However, this aura is linked to their powers and are stronger when they are used or the individual is under extreme stress. So the government came up with an idea.
To set up a school system where students can be monitored and powered people can be identified. With Sentinels there to take them down. And that is why every kid in Epizon has to go to some kind of school or get an annual check up. It’s so they can kill powered people when they’re young.
Could this society be more wrong? It saddens me to know that it could.
We finally stopped and the doors opened wide open.
“Keep walking?” the Sentinel to my right demanded.
Guess it’s time to get this over with.
We arrived at the Vault. It looked just like some high tech bank but instead of keeping people out. It was made to make sure they couldn’t escape. With automatic machine guns on the walls, Sentinels, and 12 foot thick walls of high grade steel it wasn’t going to be easy to escape. And in the case of an incident the elevator upstairs would be locked. Leaving you trapped under bedrock unless you could teleport or had some other useful power for that situation.
One Sentinel walked over to the Vault's white doors and demanded entry.
“Open, Sentinel 1706!”
With a click and clank the doors started to open slowly.
It finally sank in just how nervous I was. I was just as nervous as last year. I’ve seen kids that took the physicals never returning. As if they never even existed. My heart started to race and I could feel the sweat crawling down my face.
Please don’t tell me I’m an Enhanced person. I don’t need superpowers. I just need to graduate and start an awesome company. Hanging out with Thomas and helping our families. That's all I want to do! I just want to be normal like everyone else.
“Relax, you’re hyperventilating. You’re the Victor , you should be calm and composed. I mean don’t give us a reason to suspect you before the assessment even starts.”
Crap, I let them see me weak.
“Of course not, I'm just planning this out that’s all.”
However, my focus was ruined by ominous threats.
“Let’s kill those kids.”
“They’ll all pay for what they’ve done.”
“The sins of the parents shall be held accountable by their children.”
“Let the Revolution begin!”
Hey, what are those voices? They just started flooding in my head.
I looked around but I couldn’t find any culprits. I’m sure none of those voices belonged to a Sentinel. No Sentinel would dare to harm a student here without approval. So where was that coming from?
“Hey, who was that? Are you playing some kind of game?” I asked.
“What are you talking about, kid. Don’t try anything, follow the rules, and you’ll be fine.”
“BUT!!”
The final part of the Vaults wall barely opened before I heard a deafening boom.
The ground started shaking and the ceiling began to collapse.
“Did something happen upstairs,” a Sentinel asked.
“What the hell is going on?”
My question was answered by a ginormous explosion.

I am a single mom of one child and have not been able to land a job for months. I have been using my credit card to pay rent and other bills. My lease ends in June and I still have not been able to get a job. I have less than a month to confirm with my complex on if I am renewing of moving out and I cant afford neither. I have no family in this state (Ga) and being a DV survivor, have been able to find any resources to help because are all maxed out when I inquire. I feel like such a failure and wish a miracle job will come through for me. I have no idea what to do.

im a florida native, but the only places i’ve ever lived in are south florida miami area and central florida. im 24 (f) looking for a safe area, a place where there is nature, not too far from the beach, doesn’t have to be city vibes but id like to be relatively close to A city. i can get a job anywhere since i work in sales, but i want to get out of miami. i don’t want to be anywhere that’s more expensive than miami but also not a dump. some places I’ve considered: the pan handle, cape coral, west palm beach, sarasota. any advice and suggestions helps 🙏🏼

Hey all, it has been a long time since I poked my head into this sub. I just got my PSA submission back today so I am looking to upgrade, trade, or sell some.
Slab and raw values will be based on recent eBay sales, and PWCC or Goldin auctions. I will use 130point for comps as it is the easiest to find OBO sold prices for eBay.
Please read the descriptions in the imgur albums, some cards are trade only.
Suicunes are NFS, Ho-oh are NFS, trade only Slab timestamps Raw timestamos
Mainly looking for holos or better from Expedition-Call of Legends. Main interests are of course Crystals, gold stars, ex, Suicune, Ho-oh, Umbreon. I prefer NM or better for trades towards the slabs unless something is really high end. I think that is a fair ask with most of my slabs being 9s.
Not interested in Base-Neo, or hyper modern at the moment. I would consider sealed for the time range mentioned.
Thanks!

Today is crossover day in the Maryland General Assembly. Any bill in one chamber that has not been introduced into the other chamber is officially dead for the session. In addition to the big sales bill (HB556/SB516), there are 8 other bills that have been cross filed and 3 bills taking an alternate route.
Here are the bills that have a good chance of getting passed.
HB0135 – (SB0946) - Controlled Dangerous Substances – Volume Dealers and Drug Kingpins – Cannabis HB0280 - (SB0073) Criminal Law - Cannabis-Related Offenses - Civil Penalties HB0556 - (SB0516) Cannabis Reform HB0664 – (SB0017) Expungement good cause HB0685 – (SB0523) Medical Cannabis – employees in health care settings HB0922 – (SB0525) Economic development – cannabis businesses HB1067 – (SB0508) Hemp Farming Program HB1135 – (SB0587) Health Care Facilities – Use of Medical Cannabis HB1172 – (SB0671) Medical Cannabis - Visiting Qualifying Patients
Introduced in opposite chamber
HB0232 - Child in Need of Assistance – Neglect – Cannabis Use HB0980 - Criminal Procedure - Probation, Parole, and Pretrial Release Violations HB1071 – Reasonable suspicion
These are the bills that have not been cross filed and are now dead
HB0408 - Alcohol and Tobacco Commission - Industry to Consumer Cannabis Legalization HB0413 - Firearms - Right to Purchase, Possess, and Carry HB0506 - Criminal Law - Manufacturing of Cannabis Products and Concentrate HB0855 – Cannabis limits (and/or) HB1147 - Public Health - Cannabis Programs - Cannabis-Induced Psychosis and THC HB1204 - Hemp Farming Program - Refined Hemp and Hemp Extract Products
SB0051 - Criminal Procedure - Reasonable Suspicion and Probable Cause - Cannabis SB0088 - Criminal Procedure - Automatic Expungement - Pardoned Conviction of Possession SB0249 - Motor Vehicle Administration - Driver Education Program - Cannabis SB0436 - Medical Cannabis – Concurrent Grower and Processor Licenses SB0653 - Child in Need of Assistance - Neglect - Cannabis Use SB0676 - Drugged Driving - Cannabis-Impaired Driving Test Pilot Program – Establishment

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The lessons in Iman Gadzhi - Agency Navigator will teach you how to:
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Every night, I tip out 5% of my total sales to bussers and runners. When I clock out, I am forced to declare, at minimum, my total credit card tips for the night. Most nights, that means I declare ~20% of sales for tips, but leave with 15% in cash.
According to coworkers, this issue has been brought to owners in the past. The response was, “you make it up on cash heavy nights” -insinuating that we take home more than we declare.
I did the math over 6 months, and I’ve declared $1200 more than I took home in cash. I want to bring it up with management, but am afraid of retaliation. What can I do? Has anyone been in a similar situation and seen it resolved?

Hey, apologies if this question isn't allowed but wasn't sure where the best place to ask was.
I've been looking at local auto auctions and found a lot where I plan to bid. Looking through pricing for past bid sales, I noticed a lot of cars get listed as not sold even though there's a bid listed. For example "Highest bid: $2,500 vehicle not sold" is there a minimum selling price that they're not disclosing and prevents the car from actually being sold at that price? Reason I ask is I found two cars I'd like to bid on one has a few bids and the other has none. I'd really like to leave with a car but am confused on how exactly that works. I don't see any reserve prices listed for the cars and obviously I don't want to overpay just to get the car I'm interested in. And I don't want to bid on a car I don't ultimately want to take home either lol.
Any information would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks for reading this. This is in England.
I booked a wedding venue in October 22 date of wedding to be June 23. Paid 25% (£5k) of the value of the wedding upfront (£20k). Was told it was needed to secure the booking. In December 22 unfortunately my engagement ended and I informed the venue right away of cancellation.
The venue said unfortunately nothing could be done my deposit is non refundable and gone. This is according to their T&Cs. The best they can do is offer me a later date this year (Dec 23) and use half my deposit towards it whilst waiving an additional 35% cancellation fee so in total I'd be down (£12k) if I didn't accept this offer.
I refused their offer and said I will deduct reasonable costs incurred on their behalf of around £400 for booking and signing the contracts. I also dispute the validity of this non refundable deposit under consumer protection and that this cancellation fee is excessive and an unfair contract.
We did not confirm the menu. Did not confirm decor nothing. All TBC further down the line. Just initial booking to hold the venue. It was all super early in the process. From my point of view there's been minimal cost incurred on the venues part and I've given loads of notice.
They venue wouldn't budge final offer was exchange the date at any point till Feb 2025 which is useless to me. I've just come out of a broken engagement and they expect me to get married by that point is ridiculous.
At this point I began my money claim.
They reject my claim. They've put a defence together using a solicitor (I'm representing myself) full of legalese etc. Now they claim they've incurred nearly all the costs of the wedding in December 22 (less than 2 months after I've booked and over 5 months out from the event).
Things like buying food and plates (never asked for anything bespoke) I find that absurd since I cancelled so early didn't confirm any food choices or decor. In their contract it says we can confirm menu up to 1 month prior to event. Why are they buying stuff now without my confirmation and who buys meat like 6 months in advance. What if I didn't want a certain dish..
Loads of random charges like meeting with the sales manager is £500 +vat. I mean what? I could've said I didn't like the place and left. No one charges for a sales pitch..
Apparently £750 +vat meeting with a wedding coordinator, I don't get what this is for. I've not instructed them to do anything so far. Picked no colours, no stages, no lighting absolutely nothing.
There's more but I think it paints the picture. They've picked some case law that seems to give some precedence to help their defence. They also believe they're entitled to keep the money due to loss of business and turning people away. Not being able to rebook etc. It's a popular time so I find it hard to fathom. I think they can rebook it.
They're also open to mediation, I'll do it to try and resolve but again I don’t think their costings are fair at all. I'm willing to budge but not much. I'm a bit apprehensive of going to court but I think I'm entitled to a refund less reasonable costs and have tried to be fair.
I've got a few weeks to decide to proceed or not.
First time taking any sort of legal action any advice if I've got a good case + any precedent and case law that might help? Much appreciated!!

A little over a year ago, I posted about how I was considering starting my own small business.
https://www.reddit.com/smallbusiness/comments/riqwft/a_client_wants_me_to_quit_my_job_and_work_fo
I was nervous. What if I fail to get more clients?
Guess what happened? My fears came true. For the the entire 2022, I could not get more clients and completely relied on that one client.
Before I paint an all gloomy picture, there are some wins to be proud of. For example, in just the 1st quarter, we increased sales by ~145% to $645K.
Q1 2022
By the end of 2022, we had reached and more than doubled his goal of $2M revenue. And he even reduced his operating costs to below 12%.
How we reached those goals was primarily due to restructuring the sales pipeline away from paid ads. We focused our prospecting on leads that are already warm-to-hot and partially sales-qualified. And by expanding our outreach across multiple channels from just emails and phone calls to include LinkedIn, Twitter, and even postcards. All made possible by an AI system that automates both prospecting and outreach, which I built. This is what worries me.
When I mentioned to him that I'd like to expand by business by offering that system to other clients and he really got upset. He threatened to cancel my contract, which in itself is not a problem because I can work to get new clients. The problem is that, although he has no IP claims for the software because I developed it outside of his paid time, I am afraid that he might bring a vexatious suit because he has more money to spend on lawyers than I do. He hasn't said this explicitly but the way ho got upset at my proposal got me thinking about covering all my bases.
Yes, I am still under a 1099 contract but and my compensation (minus SE taxes and health insurance costs) is more than what I was making at my old job. Nonetheless, I would like to move past being a client business.
I am thinking maybe the other option is to ask him for ownership stake in the company, no less than 50%. Is this too much? Should I even do that knowing that I possibly could make more money if I sever ties and go it fully independent.
Or should I stealthily get other clients and just wean myself away from this client softly?
THANK YOU: I also wanted to express my gratitude for the humbling feedback and support that I did get in the original post. That gave me more confidence to seek new opportunities. Although my current situation may seem prickly, I am still thankful for the opportunity and I would still make the same decision today.

Ok most of us had already assumed before today’s hearing that there would likely be a SCLX minority/full BO in the future. After today’s comment about a asset sale in the near future my only question is when will a PR drop pertaining to SEMDEXA NDA application? For SRNE/SCLX to get the best offer that needs to drop and soon or am I missing something?

My solicitors sent the following to my sellers solicitors -

1. Our Local search also notes Underpin section of the rear wall of the house please can the seller provide some further information in relation to the same.

Should I be concerned about the above? I haven’t had a structural survey carried out on the property yet.
The property has had a rear extension. The property was built in 1901.
I have attached a link to the property also -
https://www.zoopla.co.uk/for-sale/details/63425183/
Any advice would be highly appreciated.

Figuring out what the best router for your needs can be complicated. We've tested the top Wi-Fi router brands so you can find the right one for your needs.
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Take a look at this list: https://quizience.com/best-wi-fi-routers-for-2022/
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TP-Link Archer AX21
Best budget router
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Wi-Fi Standard
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Wi-Fi 6
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Speed Rating
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AX1800
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Range
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Up to 2,500 sq. ft.
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Wireless Networking Security
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WPA3
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Bands
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Dual-Band (2.4 and 5GHz)
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Available for $100 (or less if you catch a sale), the TP-Link Archer AX21 is an entry-level, dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router that supports top speeds of up to 1,201Mbps (1.2Gbps) on its 5GHz band. It's nothing fancy, but it offered near flawless performance for small- to medium-size homes in our tests, and it's a cinch to setup and use thanks to TP-Link's Tether app.
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Best of all, when tested against other, similar routers from names like Asus and Netgear, the AX21 held its own with faster download speeds, better range, and low latency, too. Add in a functional bandsteering mode that automatically steers you between the 2.4 and 5GHz bands within a single network, plus guest network controls and even a quality of service engine for prioritizing traffic to the most important devices on your network, and you're looking at a decent home networking upgrade that's as simple and affordable as it gets. It isn't powerful enough to max out speeds on a gigabit network, but it can still hit consistent close-range speeds near 700Mbps or so, which is more than enough for most households. Read our TP-Link Archer AX21 review.
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Linksys Hydra Pro 6 (MR5500)
Best midrange router
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Wi-Fi Standard
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Wi-Fi 6
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Speed Rating
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AX5400
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Range
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Up to 2,700 sq. ft.
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Wireless Networking Security
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WPA2, WPA3
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Bands
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Dual-Band (2.4 and 5GHz)
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If you've already got a budget router running your network and you're ready to upgrade to something more powerful, the Linksys Hydra Pro 6 belongs high on your list. With a dual-band, AX5400 build, full support for Wi-Fi 6, and 160MHz channel support for moving data more efficiently, it was an excellent performer in my speed tests, even managing to outperform flashier picks like the also great Asus RT-AX86U.
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The Hydra Pro 6 is a touch pricey as dual-band routers go, but the steady, consistent performance makes it a standout. Try and catch it on sale if you can, but if you just want a reliable, no-frills router that can keep up with gigabit speeds, look no further. Read our Linksys Hydra Pro 6 review.
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TP-Link Deco W7200
Best mesh router overall
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Wi-Fi Standard
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Wi-Fi 6
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Speed Rating
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AX3600
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Range
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Up to 5,500 sq. ft. (two devices)
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Wireless Networking Security
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WPA2, WPA3
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Bands
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Tri-Band (2.4 and two 5GHz)
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For the best performance from your mesh router, you'll want to prioritize getting one with support for Wi-Fi 6, plus a tri-band design that includes three separate bands of traffic: the usual 2.4 and 5GHz bands, plus an additional 5GHz band that the system can use as a dedicated wireless backhaul for transmissions between the router and its satellites. Most mesh routers like that cost at least $300 or even $400, but the TP-Link Deco W7200 gets you there for less than $250.
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That's the best deal I've seen for a tri-band mesh router with support for Wi-Fi 6 -- and sure enough, it's an excellent performer, as well. In fact, the only system that managed to outperform it outright in my at-home speed tests is the AX6000 version of Netgear Orbi, which costs more than three times as much (keep reading for more on that one). On top of that, TP-Link's setup process is about as easy as it gets, with satellite extenders that automatically join the mesh as soon as you plug them in. Read our TP-Link Deco W7200 review.
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Asus RT-AX86U
Best gaming router
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Wi-Fi standard
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Wi-Fi 6
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Speed Rating
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AX5700
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Range
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Up to 2,500 sq. ft.
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Wireless Networking Security
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WPA3
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Bands
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Dual-Band (2.4 and 5GHz)
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Gaming routers promise high performance and low latency for die-hard gamers, and it isn't uncommon to find them selling for $300 or even $400. At about $270 or less, the Asus RT-AX86U dual-band router isn't inexpensive either, but it's a strong value relative to routers like those -- and the performance it delivers as a gaming router is flat-out great.
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Most noteworthy is the router's latency management. In fact, it leads all of the routers I've ever tested, gaming or otherwise, with the lowest average latency across all of my tests, which online gamers will definitely appreciate. Something else you'll appreciate: An excellent mix of app-based controls and features, including a mobile boost mode, that lets you prioritize gaming traffic to your phone at the touch of a button.
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Gaming features aside, the RT-AX86U offers full support for Wi-Fi 6, with strong, stable speeds and good range. If you need additional range, you can add other Asus "AIMesh" devices to your home network to make it the centerpiece of a mesh.
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That checks off all of the boxes that most people want from a good gaming router, and it gets you there at a price that isn't too painful for us to recommend. Even if you aren't a gamer, this is still one of the best Wi-Fi 6 routers you can buy right now. Read our list of the best gaming routers.

In the first movie, we see some of bakugous sweat land on one of the villains hands, only for todoroki to shoot his flames at it and it detonate same as bakugous explosions With this in mind, if bakugou and todoroki fought, if todoroki managed to land a stream of fire on bakugou, wouldn’t that cause all the sweat on his body to just explode against his will?

I am an land/investment broker in Canada. I have been to ICSC Canada multiple times. I have been thinking about going to vegas icsc this year to know more about US market and networking and see if there is any opportunity for future projects (I am also a small developer). I understand it’s supposed to be retail focus but is it worth going for the purposes of networking and understanding more about the US market especially in multi families land and/or IPP sectors? Thanks