The In-Between

One of the many seasons of life.

It's the calm before the storm of the next life event. The pause between the breaths of life.

The stillness before the chaos.

It allows you to rest, digest, and accept the previous cycle you experienced.

The Illusion of Division

We are one

One with nature that nurtures us

One with the stars, which we're made of

We are one with each other

Sharing experiences 

Sharing pain

Sharing joy

Sharing love

That is why there is really only one rule

Treat others how you want to be treated

For how you treat others is how you treat yourself

Update

    Yo! Been a couple weeks. I had planned on doing more on the writing front, but my new job has been taking all my time and energy. I still plan to focus on One Vs. All, though I don't know the timeline now. (I am no stranger to plans not working, but this not working out as planned still irritated me.) I don't know when next I can write or record, though I will do what I can. Thank you for reading and...

    Till next time, take care.

I Was Houseless

     For multiple years, I was in and out of living in a car with my mom.  From about the age of fourteen to when I was eighteen. During this era, instead of saying I was homeless (on the rare instance I shared my home status), I would say I was houseless. Because you are never without a home. It just so happened my home was a Dodge Calibur, and then later a Hyundai Sonata. There were times my mom and I had respite from the car. Whether we were blessed enough to sleep in someone's home, stayed in a hotel for a period of time, or even living some place temporarily.

    How did I end up in that situation...? I won't go into full detail right now, though here is the summarized version. My mom and I moved in with her boyfriend (at the time) when the lease of our apartment was up. We found out later that he was a narcissist. (I'll talk about narcissists another time.) When we could no longer deal with his abuse, we left and moved into the car.

    Why am I sharing this? It's a significant part of my life. The multitude of experiences from this time period had a great effect on me. For better and for worse. Helping shape me into who I am today. A lot of stories I plan to share are from this era of my life. It would be a disservice and disingenuous to leave that out of these stories.

Reborn

    A warrior was cast into hell. Not as a punishment for himself. Not even as punishment for hell's denizens. But as a last resort. Demons sought to cross the veil and conquer the realm. So the kingdom sent forth an unparalleled warrior. Every battlefield he crossed, he dominated. Every foe who challenged him was promptly cut down. He only lived for battle. Wandering the lands purely for greater bouts. And so... he was cast into hell. His aimless battlelust focused on hell itself. A single warrior waging war upon hell itself...

     As he did on many battlefields before, he cut down the enemies before him. Though unlike his  previous foes, those he encountered here were not human. These creatures had grotesque muscles, which gave them inhuman strength. Jaws that were built to crush bones between them. Claws that could rend flesh from bone with a single swipe. The sight of these creatures would drive sane men mad. Though instead... These traits delighted the warrior. These new enemies required more of his strength to defeat. He had to use different moves to slay these creatures. The excitement of these new experiences pushed the warrior further, cutting down hordes of demons. Eventually, the demons began to recognize him. Soon, greater and greater forces would oppose the warrior. Larger demons, larger hordes. This entertained the warrior, never leaving him bored.

    Though, there came a battle that was too much for even the warrior. An army amassed to face him. Legions of demons varying from small, quick imps to hulking brutes wearing armor and wielding weapons. The warrior gleefully faced this army. Initially cutting down his foes as he had grown accustomed to. However, this battle dragged on longer than most. It seemed as though the enemy forces replenished themselves as fast as he cut them down. Swatting the hordes of demons began to feel like swatting at the waves of the ocean. The demons began to inflict damage upon the warrior. Something they had never seen or done before. This emboldened them, causing them to fight more aggressively than they already did. Progressively, they inflicted more and more damage. The blood that coated the warrior was no longer only the demons... In the flurry of attacks, one brute swung at him with a giant club, knocking the warrior down with a resounding crack. The crack rang throughout the battlefield like a bell. The warrior collapsed onto the ground with a thud, causing the demons to become still. Initially, the demons only watched, making sure he was dead... Upon seeing him lie still, the demons began to roar and howl. The battlefield shook with the demonic celebration.

    Though in the cacophony of crowing, demonic blood sprayed into the air. Silence washed over the army... The warrior was back on his feet, drenched in both his blood and the blood of the demons around him. He released a ghostly breath as he stood, tightly gripping his great sword. The demons around him chattered in their tongue, confused by the sight before them. The warrior they had just beaten down, that had taken so much to bring down, was standing once more. And what 's worse... He was smiling.... Some of the demons questioned what they fought against. Though while they were caught in a daze, the warrior dashed through a grouping, cutting them down. He then swung their blood off his blade. Some demons involuntarily backed away from the warrior. Primal instincts told many of the smaller demons to run. The warrior then released another ghostly exhale. The same brute that had knocked him down before stepped forward. The brute brought his club down once more. Though this time, the warrior dodged the swing and proceeded to dismantle the brute. He cut into its ankles, bringing it closer to the ground. Then he stabbed into its spine, right before beheading the brute. The brute's body collapsed onto the ground, a loud thud being heard all around. The silence fully washed over the once rambunctious army. Though it was short lived as the warrior then let out a cackle that sent shivers down the spines of the demons.

    The warrior continued the battle, the rush of elation coursing through him. Many demons fought back. Many more didn't get to choose. The warrior proceeded to swing his blade, slaughtering the demons. While not from that realm, it seemed to be the perfect place for him. It is said, that to this day, he is still in hell, holding back the demon siege.

 

 

Intrusive Thoughts

They are many voices. Your shadow self expressing itself. Making a remark that you know is yours though probably wouldn't say out load.

The voice of society enforcing its rules. The voice that says no even if what it's saying no to is something you enjoy.

The voices of those you care about. Remarks that would be stated by your family, your friends, but not necessarily yourself.

It is up to you how you respond to the intrusive thoughts. Whether you shun them. Deny them. Let them dictate your actions. Or to simply observe them.

Wolfgang Bros.

    Two figures squatted in a tree, a full moon's glow illuminating them. They observed the compound below them and all its moving pieces. Multiple beams of light swinging across the compound, leaving nothing in the dark for long. Guards patrolling the compound grounds, robotic in their patterns and precise scheduling. As well as several cameras throughout the compound.

    "You sure this job's worth it?" Ted questioned. Ted was bulkier than his lean counterpart. The difference in their shapes was made more obvious by the fact they both wore identical black garb. The only difference being their accessories. Ted wore an empty sheathe strapped to his back while his counterpart wore a multi-pouched belt.

    "I am certain," Fred assuredly answered. "The pay for this job is higher than our last 6 combined."

    "The security also looks tighter than our last 6 combined."

    "It's just another job. One in which we won't need to work again for a long time."

    "My instincts say something isn't right," Ted insisted. Fred looked at him for a couple seconds, considering his words.

    "...I say the pay's worth it. We can handle anything that comes up." Ted shifted his glance between Fred and the compound repeatedly. Though he soon groaned.

    "Alright brother. Let's get this over with." A smirk grew on Fred's face.

    They hopped down from the tree and slithered through the grass, sticking to the shadows, making their way toward the intimidating compound. Upon meeting the barbed wire fence, they waited for their opportunity to sneak in unnoticed. Once that opportunity struck, they hopped over the three meter fence and landed with ease. Before the dust could settle from their landing, they quickly moved to cover, avoiding a swinging light. While in cover, they kept their ears out for the patrolling guards. When they knew the coast was clear, they moved deeper into the compound. Avoiding the floodlights, moving past guard patrols, and staying in camera blindspots.

    They soon reached the central building filled with sterile white corridors. Once inside, Fred shook his body. Ted smirked. "You know I hate the cold," Fred retorted. Ted chuckled before moving on. Fred sharply exhaled through his nose. They then maneuvered themselves into the shadowy blindspots of the cameras and waited...

    "Do you know what we're guarding?" A guard questioned. The guard he was walking with took a minute before responding.

    "What?" Guard Two responded.

    "Do you know-" 

    "No, I heard you. I'm right next to you."

    "Well. Do you?" You could feel Guard 2 shoot a confused look to his partner.

    "It doesn't matter. We're getting paid the same."

    "Yeah, but-"

    "But what?" Silence followed the two as they continued. "The job is to guard the premises and keep intruders from entering the innermost quarters."

    "It just feels off. I know the boss left out something important and I don't want to get screw-" and before Guard 1 could finish his remark, Fred and Ted snatched the two guards. They quickly dismantled and disrobed the two guards before switching into the guards gear. They then hopped from the blind spot and continued walking.

    They moved through the corridors as they did outside; avoiding other guards while doing so. They eventually came to a hallway that led to a door. Though the door was blocked by two guards wielding guns. Ted looked at Fred with anticipation. Fred squinted and shook his head in response. Ted's shoulders dropped. Fred checked the watch he stole from one of the guards, revealing to him it was a couple minutes from the hour. The duo waited those couple minutes before rounding the corner and meeting the guards. The guards nodded to the two before leaving. The two smirked at each other. They then stood in front of the door for a few moments. Enough time to make sure no other guards would appear. Once that fact was made certain, the two examined the lock on the door. Only to see that it was a simple door knob. Ted tilted his head and twisted the knob. The door opened with no resistance.

    The two slipped into the innermost quarters, awed and shocked by what they saw. It was a lavish space. Starkly contrasting the sterile hallways they just traversed. Oak floorboards with crimson carpets accenting the floor. Wooden columns, spaced evenly and symmetrically, matching the floor. Across the walls was maple leaf decor, splashing occasional gold and red against dark oak brown.

   "Damn," Ted blurted. In the center of the room was a stunning sword within a display case. Upon getting closer, it's beauty was made even more obvious. It's shining golden cross guard and handle with a rounded pommel. The magic emanating off of it allured and commanded the respect of the two. The two were silent, admiring it's beauty.

    "Incredible... We've seen some stuff, but... Damn. I get why our client wants it," Fred remarked. Ted was silent, staring at the sword. The hair on the back of Ted's neck stood on end and he almost seemed on guard. Fred looked at him for a second before continuing. He took out a small box from one of his pouches. He proceeded to blow powder at the display case, revealing lasers around the box.

    "Makes sense," Ted commented. Fred paused as he examined the lasers. He walked around searching for any openings. Though before he could find anything, something stopped him and Ted dead in their tracks. "...You hear that brother?"

    "Yep... Just like thunder..." Ted darted his eyes around as he examined the room for exits. Meanwhile, Fred stood up straight and stared at the door they entered from.

    "Brother," Fred prompted. Ted looked over at him. "Wolfman." Ted's eyes lit up before he flashed a toothy grin, revealing sharp, jagged teeth...

    The sound of numerous rushing boots thundered toward the display room. It didn't take long for them to reach the room and promptly kick it open. Though, the situation was odd. The room was dark and no one was there.

    "Spread out and search for a light switch," the head guard commanded. The group spread out throughout the room, flashlight beams sweeping the room.

    "Found the switch, though it's not working," informed one guard along the left wall. As if timed, a man then stepped on some broken glass. He looked up at the ceiling and saw the destroyed lights.

    "We got busted lights over here," informed another guard. All the guards then looked up revealing all the lights smashed.

    "The intruder couldn't have gotten far. Search for him!" commanded the head guard. The door then slammed behind the squad. All light beams focused on the door. Before anything could be said, a yell was heard from a guard as he was tossed across the room into others.

    "The hell?" A guard remarked before another guard was tossed. 

    "Remain calm and stay ready!" commanded the head guard. Guards frantically swung their flashlight beams, searching for whatever was hunting them. In their searching, they briefly spotted a large shadow along the walls. Growling could soon be heard.

    "The hell is that?!" shouted a guard. The large creature then jumped in front one particularly scared guard, causing him to fall, dropping his gun. The guard soon picked it back up and panned his light up the creature. First showing sharp claws. Then furry legs. An even furrier, large, muscular body. Then the head. Pointed ears, a dark mane, and snarling sharp teeth. The squadron was quiet, speechless at the sight of something that shouldn't exist. The beast then howled, temporarily stunning the squad. It then exploded in speed, knocking over all guards close to it. In the frenzy, all you could hear was terrified screams, snarling, and loud thuds.

    The beast soon cleared the room and dashed out the door. As it ran through the halls, alarms blared. It swiftly exited the main building and proceeded to avoid the scrambling guards. Upon seeing the giant moving shadow, many guards became stunned, others fearfully fired at it. The beast dodged the gunfire and disappeared into the trees.

    The beast then stopped next to a leaner one, the magical sword on his back. Now in contact, they proceeded to run.

    "I told you something was wrong with this job," Ted jeered as they dashed away... Fred grumbled under his breath.

Sometime later...

    The brothers stood someplace underground with a box in between them. A man with a white suit came down the stairs, a smile plastered on his face.

    "The Wolfgang Brothers! It is an honor and a pleasure. Now, I have to know, is that your actual last name or just cool nickname you gave yourselves?" The brothers blankly stared at their client without answering. "Doesn't matter either way," he stated, shaking off their silence. "Do you have it?"

    "You're looking at it," Fred replied, patting the box.

    "Excellent!" The man then pulled out his phone and repeatedly tapped the screen. A ding then came from Fred's phone. "The money has been paid in full." Fred checked his phone to verify. He smiled at his phone before opening the box revealing the sword. The man became visibly more delighted upon seeing it. He then picked up the sword and admired its beauty. 

    "We went through an awful lot getting that and don't even know what it is. So... What is it?" 

    The man didn't look away from the sword, though chuckled at the question.

    "It is arguably one of the most famous magical items in history..." He laughed some more as he swung it, like a child would. "This is Excalibur." The brothers' eyes widened as realization sunk in. Ted and Fred exchanged looks while wide eyed.

Purpose

    "Finally... I can finally learn what my purpose is..." I thought as I scaled the mountain face.

    My imagination went wild exploring what my purpose could be. I've always been physically capable... Maybe I am to be a warrior? Carving through my enemies. Though the thought of getting my brain rattled or getting hurt didn't sound fun... Maybe a teacher or a scholar? I love to share knowledge and soak it up like a sponge... Though, I can't see myself doing that full time... Maybe I am to be a leader? To take a stand against what is wrong! Though I don't really like crowds.

    I eventually made my way to the entrance of the cave where the oracle was said to be. Why do they always have to be in such ridiculous locations. A mountain top, behind a waterfall, atop a volcano? Or in this case, a cave inside a mountain only accessible by climbing. Why can't oracles be somewhere simpler. Like next door to a shop?

    I cleared away these thoughts as I entered the cave. That is the only way to truly commune with an oracle. As I walked through the cave, I took centering breaths. Once my mind was at its most still, I sensed the oracle's presence.

    "What is my purpose...?" I asked. "Is it simply to experience life?"

    That is everyone's purpose.

    Though simple, this statement sent a shock through me. An electric current of realization. The oracle's voice was quiet, still, while still resonating through me.

    "So what is mine?"

    To serve the people. To raise the people's vibration.

    This answer took me aback. Really? That was it? I mean it makes sense knowing myself - and it's a noble purpose, but... After years of speculating and fantasies of grandeur... That was my purpose?

    Are you unsatisfied with your answer?

    "No, no... It makes sense... It's simply... Something for me to digest... I am grateful for your communication."

    No audible response. I looked back at where I imagined the oracle to be. Knowing full well the oracle wasn't there. I simply stood where I was. Contemplating what I learned... After some moments, I walked out of cave, a newfound sense of purpose in my stride.