The Decline of Family in Modern Britain Essay -- Sociology, Family Val

The Decline of Family in Modern Britain Family- a group of people who are related to each other such as a mother, a father and their children (Cambridge Dictionaries Online, Cambridge University Press (2008)), Is this the view of a family in 2008, clearly it could be said that this definition is somewhat outdated but does it point to the family world in decline? In Britain today the family has certainly undergone a lot of win overs compared to the 1950s where the family was predominately a nuclear family where the man of the household went out to work and the charr stayed at home to cook, clean and look after the children. Today there are a number of new structures to a family such as superstar parent families, reconstituted families and same sex families all of which consider they to be what constitutes a family. But how did these new structures come about, to answer this we have to look at the changes the family has undergone in recent years. Di vorce is a big influence on the structure of a family as it is today. Divorce is easier to obtain than in previous years with the inception in 1971 of the Divorce Reform Act that established irretrievable breakdown of marriage as grounds for separate. Another act was passed in 1984 that allowed married couples to divorce after one year of marriage that ultimately increased the number of divorces. Legal aid is now more accessible and ends in most cases the set down of a divorce. Divorce is also far less stigmatised than previously where the likelihood of knowing someone who is divorced as opposed to not knowing anyone (as in previous years) is rare and on the whole accepte... ...ly has its own structure dependant on who you are and as long as it functions to the best of its ability, it is about change with the times rather than decline. Bibliography ------------ Moore, S., Chapman, S. and Aiken, D. (2001) Sociology for AS-Level, Families and Househ olds Topic 2 (1-6) 36-55, London Collins. New Right and Changes in the Family (Class Handout 07.10.04) Changing Patterns of Marriage and Divorce (Class Handout 21.10.04) Contemporary Changes in the Family (Class Handout 08.10.04) Cambridge Dictionaries Online (accessed 24.10.04) Available http//dictionary.cambridge.org/results.asp?searchword=family S-cool Student Site As & A2 Level Sociology Family Ideology-Introduction, Type of Family, Diversity and A View from 1950 (accessed 21.10.04) Available http//www.s-cool.co.uk

The Details of Human Sexuality and Society Essay -- Sexuality, gender,

This is a definition of from someone who has studied human sexuality human sexuality is the way in which we experience and express ourselves as sexual beings (Rathus et al., 1993). There are many factors that help develop our sexuality, arguably one of the most important, is our actual gender. Whether, I am a male or female will likely have a major influence on the development of my individual sexuality. Furthermore, sexuality is an intrinsic part of our personalities whether we are aware of it or non. Ludwin Molina. Here is my definition to me it is just the attraction to someone. The way you feel towards them mainly sexual feelings.E very culture has a different belief or value when it comes to making sexual decisions. I would say it mainly depends on how you are raised. For me and my family we have been taught to wait until marriage, although sometimes things whitethorn not work out that way it is still how we have been raised Also I think it depends on the generation. The gener ation now is a cluster more accepting to sex before marriage. Kids think of it as its going to happen anyway. There for sexual attraction is shown a bus more often at a younger age. Now if youre talking some older generations it is not as accepted. You were manifestationed down upon if you had a kid before marriage in some generations. This caused people to not be as affection and show there attraction for each other in the public eye because they didnt want people to assume things and be looked down upon.Human Sexuality is a tough topic to talk about because it is so general. It is basically what attracts one to another and how they show there feelings. What brings them together and keeps them together. It also related to sexual attraction because it is ho... ...th anthropology because anthropology relates to genetic science. Human sexuality works very closely with genetics and how you are made and what you consist of as well as personality and culture traits. It also relate s to parents because your parents are what make you and raise you how to act. This relates to genetics because it makes you part of your parents. Which we are learning about in class.In conclusion human sexuality just depends on how comfortable you are with your self, how you were raised and what you believe. It is not really just pushed on you. You develop it your self with your own opinions and views. As long as help with the ones around you. For example the way kids I recognise and I am friends with show there human sexuality is very different then the way our parents did because it is our culture, as well as how we rate situations and how we look at things.

Chemical Warfare Essay -- essays research papers

Chem WarfareIt was not until the early 1930s that Germanchemists observed that organo-phosphorus multiforms could be poisonous. In 1934, DrGerhard Schrader, a chemist at IG Farben, wasgiven the task of developing a pesticide. Two days later a phosphorus compound withextremely high toxicity was produced for the firsttime. According to contemporary regulations,discoveries with military implications had to bereported to the military authorities, which was alsodone with Schraders discovery. This phosphoruscompound, given the quote tabun, was the first ofthe substances later referred to as nervus agents. Afactory for production of the new CW agent wasbuilt and a total of 12 000 tonnes of tabun wereproduced during the years 1942-1945. At the endof the war the Allies seized large quantities of this typeface agent. Up to the end of the war, Schraderand his co-workers synthesized about 2 000 neworgano-phosphorus compounds, including sarin(1938). The third of the "classic" nerve age nts,soman, was first produced in 1944. These threenerve agents are known as G agents in theAmerican nomenclature. The manufacture of sarinnever started properly and up to 1945 only about0.5 tonne of this nerve agent was produced in apilot plant. Immediately after the war, researchwas mainly concentrated on studies of themechanisms of the nerve agents in order todiscover more effective forms of protection againstthese new CW agents. The resul...

The Holocaust Essay -- Nazi Germany Papers

The Holocaust All throughout history, Jews have been persecuted. The Jews were blamed for killing deliveryman and the idea of anti- Semitism has been around centuries before Adolf Hitler and the Nazis. Adolf Hitler led the Nazis to power in 1933 promising to make Germany powerful and respected by the rest of the world. He promised to fight Communism, to begin jobs for the six million unemployed workers in Germany, to restore law and order, and to get rid of the Jewish persuade in Germany. Hitlers speeches were full of hatred for the Jews and this promote his followers to attack Jewish people. The Nazis controlled the police. The Nazis controlled the law courts, and Jews soon discovered that they would have no protection against Nazi attacks. In April 1933 Nazis called for Jewish shops to be boycotted. Storm-Troopers stood outside shops and stop Germans from going in. Slogans were painted on shop windows. These boycotts were not very effective so the Nazis needed more effective methods. Joseph Goebbles, who controlled propaganda, produced many anti Semitic books and In 1933 Jews were also banned from some professions such as doctors and the civil servants. Hitler wanted a racially pure Germany this is why the Jews were banned from these professions because they didnt want their influence to spread. Source A is an extract from the Nuremberg laws in September 1935 it starts by saying, A Jew may not be citizen of the Reich. This Shows that the Jews where stateless and they had nowhere to go. After it says, Jews have no vote they may not fill any public office. Thi... ... face. The killing centres were, isolated areas, moderately well hidden from public view. They were located close to major railroad lines, allowing trains to transport hundreds of thousands of people to the killing sites easily. The deportations required the help of many people and all parts of the German government. The victims in Poland were already remand in ghettos and totally under German control. The deportation of Jews from other parts of Europe, however, was a far more complex problem. The German foreign minister was victorious in persuade German occupied nation to assist in the deportations. The introduction of the Auschwitz extermination camp meant that the Jews could be killed efficiently. Unlike other death camps which were base solely to kill Jews, the Auscwitz death camp had a work camp attached.

Economic History of Europe from Early 100s to Medieval :: essays papers

Economic report of Europe from Early 100s to Medieval In the tenth century, Europe was climax out of a torment of invasion, plunder, and rapine, by enemies form all sides. They were from Scandinavia, the Norsemen or Vikings that pillaged and harassed everyone almost to Constantinople. They were also plagued by the Saracens from across the Mediterranean and from the Magyars from the east overland. But no one will submit to this kind of abuse forever. Europeans began to retaliate and counter the thrusts of their attackers, raising the price of aggression. Over the years the northern tribes and Hungarian invaders gave up, settled mound and domesticated. This end form danger launched Europe on the path for development and growth. Western Aristocracy, however, did not foster the idea of a successful, cost-effective thrift. The Aristocratic empires squeezed al they could out of what they had instead of looking for new ways to make more. They pressed and oppressed harder. These societies had no initiative and could not operate in terms of productivity. The chivalrous period that followed was considered a transitional society. These nomadic communities kept in constant motion mad nothing so special or valuable as to cause issues of ownership or other ambitions to power. In the centuries that followed authority began to weaken. The tradition of election passed on to hereditary rule, but the old custom and appearances also fagged away and the ruler, even when designated at birth was formally elected. His power was weakening and some seeked to restore the empire that had once been. At this distributor point the basis of economy in Europe was private property what could be held, defended, and conquered. As communication and transportation came into peoples lives the contest for power in European societies gave revoke to semi-autonomous city, or an organized commune. But nothing like the commune appeared outside Western Europe. The commune had a primary economic component to be a government of the merchants, by the merchants, and for the merchants. Also it functioned in its ability to grant social status and political rights on its residents, rights that are crucial to the bear of business and to emancipation from outside interference. These cities became gateways to freedom. Migration to cities improved the income and status of the migrants. Self emancipation in Western Europe was directly linked to the franchised villages and urban communes.Economic History of Europe from Early 100s to Medieval essays papersEconomic History of Europe from Early 100s to Medieval In the tenth century, Europe was coming out of a torment of invasion, plunder, and rapine, by enemies form all sides. They were from Scandinavia, the Norsemen or Vikings that pillaged and harassed everyone almost to Constantinople. They were also plagued by the Saracens from across the Mediterranean and from the Magyars from the east overland. But no one will submit to this kind of abuse forever. Europeans began to retaliate and counter the thrusts of their attackers, raising the price of aggression. Over the years the northern tribes and Hungarian invaders gave up, settled down and domesticated. This end form danger launched Europe on the path for development and growth. Western Aristocracy, however, did not foster the idea of a successful, efficient economy. The Aristocratic empires squeezed al they could out of what they had instead of looking for new ways to make more. They pressed and oppressed harder. These societies had no initiative and could not operate in terms of productivity. The medieval period that followed was considered a transitional society. These nomadic communities kept in constant motion mad nothing so special or valuable as to cause issues of ownership or other ambitions to power. In the centuries that followed authority began to weaken. The tradition of election passed on to hereditary rule, but the old custom s and appearances also faded away and the ruler, even when designated at birth was formally elected. His power was weakening and some seeked to restore the empire that had once been. At this point the basis of economy in Europe was private property what could be held, defended, and conquered. As communication and transportation came into peoples lives the contest for power in European societies gave rise to semi-autonomous city, or an organized commune. But nothing like the commune appeared outside Western Europe. The commune had a primary economic function to be a government of the merchants, by the merchants, and for the merchants. Also it functioned in its ability to grant social status and political rights on its residents, rights that are crucial to the conduct of business and to freedom from outside interference. These cities became gateways to freedom. Migration to cities improved the income and status of the migrants. Self emancipation in Western Europe was directly linked to the franchised villages and urban communes.

Economic History of Europe from Early 100s to Medieval :: essays papers

Economic History of Europe from Early 100s to Medieval In the 10th century, Europe was access out of a torment of invasion, plunder, and rapine, by enemies form all sides. They were from Scandinavia, the Norsemen or Vikings that pillaged and harassed everyone almost to Constantinople. They were also plagued by the Saracens from crosswise the Mediterranean and from the Magyars from the eastern overland. But no one will submit to this kind of abuse forever. Europeans began to retaliate and counter the thrusts of their attackers, raising the price of aggression. Over the geezerhood the northern tribes and Magyar invaders gave up, settled down and domesticated. This end form danger launched Europe on the path for development and growth. Western Aristocracy, however, did non foster the vagary of a successful, businesslike economy. The Aristocratic empires squeezed al they could out of what they had instead of looking for new ways to make more. They pressed and oppressed ha rder. These societies had no initiative and could not operate in terms of productivity. The medieval period that followed was considered a transitional society. These nomadic communities kept in constant motion mad nothing so special or valuable as to cause issues of ownership or other ambitions to power. In the centuries that followed authority began to weaken. The tradition of election passed on to hereditary rule, still the old tradition and appearances also faded away and the ruler, even when designated at birth was formally elected. His power was weakening and some seeked to restore the empire that had one time been. At this stopover the basis of economy in Europe was private property what could be held, defended, and conquered. As communication and transportation came into peoples lives the challenger for power in European societies gave rise to semi-autonomous city, or an organized commune. But nothing like the commune appe ard outside Western Europe. The commune had a base economic operate on to be a government of the merchants, by the merchants, and for the merchants. Also it functioned in its ability to grant social status and political rights on its residents, rights that are crucial to the take of business and to freedom from outside interference. These cities became gateways to freedom. Migration to cities improved the income and status of the migrants. Self emancipation in Western Europe was directly linked to the franchised villages and urban communes.Economic History of Europe from Early 100s to Medieval essays papersEconomic History of Europe from Early 100s to Medieval In the tenth century, Europe was coming out of a torment of invasion, plunder, and rapine, by enemies form all sides. They were from Scandinavia, the Norsemen or Vikings that pillaged and harassed everyone almost to Constantinople. They were also plagued by the Saracens from across the Mediterranean and from the Magyars from the east overland. But no one will submit to this kind of abuse forever. Europeans began to retaliate and counter the thrusts of their attackers, raising the price of aggression. Over the years the northern tribes and Hungarian invaders gave up, settled down and domesticated. This end form danger launched Europe on the path for development and growth. Western Aristocracy, however, did not foster the idea of a successful, efficient economy. The Aristocratic empires squeezed al they could out of what they had instead of looking for new ways to make more. They pressed and oppressed harder. These societies had no initiative and could not operate in terms of productivity. The medieval period that followed was considered a transitional society. These nomadic communities kept in constant motion mad nothing so special or valuable as to cause issues of ownership or other ambitions to power. In the centuries that followed authority began to weaken. The tradition of election passed on to hereditary rule, but the old cu stoms and appearances also faded away and the ruler, even when designated at birth was formally elected. His power was weakening and some seeked to restore the empire that had once been. At this point the basis of economy in Europe was private property what could be held, defended, and conquered. As communication and transportation came into peoples lives the contest for power in European societies gave rise to semi-autonomous city, or an organized commune. But nothing like the commune appeared outside Western Europe. The commune had a primary economic function to be a government of the merchants, by the merchants, and for the merchants. Also it functioned in its ability to grant social status and political rights on its residents, rights that are crucial to the conduct of business and to freedom from outside interference. These cities became gateways to freedom. Migration to cities improved the income and status of the migrants. Self emancipation in Western Europe was direc tly linked to the franchised villages and urban communes.

A Visit to Zoo

A Visit to the Zoo Last Sunday it was cloudy. I, along with my friends visited the zoo. As we reached the main gate of the zoo, we saw a huge crowd. Some were buying, entrance tickets, just ab disclose were gossiping and chatting while others were relaxing under the shady trees. We entered the zoological gardens and ca me across a beautiful lake, where some water-birds, like ducks, were swimming. Seeing the white ducks on the smooth surface of water is a charming sight. As we move further, we came to the enclosure where birds were kept. They ranged from sparrows, eagles and parrots to pigeons of various colours.The birds were chirping. It was enchanting music. We enjoyed it very much. In the next enclosure were kept lions and leopards, tigers and tigresses, whose roars were deafening. As we approached the net, a lion rushed towards us and we were terrified. Their fierce looks were frightening. afterward discerning this, we came across a garden having stags, very smart and beautif ul. In one of the corners, monkeys were jumping. Their tricks and pranks were very pleasing. Some people threw peanuts to them and they immediately jumped down the trees to eat them.Many children were qualification faces at them. Our next halt was at an aquarium in which we were most interested. A large number of fishes were kept there. There were fish of many species and colours. To see them fidgeting in water was really a delightful spectacle. There were many other aquatic animals. Just by the lieu of this enclosure we came across north-polar bears, which looked sad and deserted. The black bears enclosure attracted a mammoth gathering. The bear was playing many tricks which thrilled the spectators. Some people offered him eatables which he gulped at once.The zoological parks are so vast that it is very difficult to describe all the cages and enclosures fully. After taking a complete round of the zoo, we relaxed for some time in a cool and beautiful garden nearby. The fragrance of the flowers was tremendously intoxicating. Then we had snacks and drinks, which refreshed us very much. It was evening and the sun was setting. We came out of the zoo like many other visitors. We boarded the bus while casting our last and lingering look at the zoo, which is surrounded on one side by the old but majestic wall of the old fort, which, no doubt, added to the beauty and grandeur of the zoo.

Hamlet’s Values Prevail Essay

Mark Twain one time stated, It is curious curious that physical courage should be so commons in the knowledge domain, and moral courage so rare. The zealous struggles between internal and external gratification and somatic and ethical honour have incontrovertibly direct to mans continual battle for integrity pride versus ethics. Religious teachings impart that one show respect to all and utilize the power of address to convey ideologies yet religious crusades have instigated the bloodiest and most(prenominal) deadly battles in human history. Mans universal and timeless question asks whether it is ethical to underpin ones honour through brutality or if the use of language and moral lessons are sufficient to deliver the message. Analogously, William Shakespeares The Tragedy of settlement bequeaths enlightenment to its audience of the universal beauties and faults of mankind on the comprehensive debate of integrity.The tragic hero, Prince small town of Denmark, vies to compre h conclusion his uncomfortably altered environment, while he relentlessly endeavors to stress morality, logic, and reason in a world where corruption and greed autonomously dictate action. His mothers precipitous remarriage, the tormenting death of his father, and the forsakenness village feels from those he held death lead him to render epiphanic cognizance. Shakespeares use of soliloquys bestows unto the audience a voyeuristic view into settlements personal meditations, highlighting villages introverted state. though his vulnerability and pathos at times render him ineffectual and indecisive, it is purely reflective of his humanity and that is what entices him to the audience. Hamlet is in an internal battle with the imperfections of the world around him.In the hypocritical nation of Denmark, Hamlet is thrust into witnessing indecencies, both externally and in his own home thus Hamlets lose of action is conjured not by feebleness of character. It is the moral contradictions and duplicity in the world before him that hinder his actions he operates therefore with ethics, prudence, and wisdom. Heroic valor sets Hamlet apart from the supplementary nobility in Denmark. After the enigmatic death of the erstwhile King Hamlet Senior, goes unquestioned, Hamlets morals compel him to seek answers. Before Hamlet can pursue the truth he must however come to terms with his mother Gertrudes remarriage to his fathers brother, Claudius. letdown in his mother and grief for his father, lead Hamlet to his first soliloquy, wherein he describes the consequences of suicide and his mothers immorality. Even in his melancholia Hamlet understand the magnitudes of self-slaughter, as the Everlasting has fixed / his canon gainst it (1.2.135-136).His ability to look past the superficial transient benefits of iniquitous actions helps Hamlet to stay firm in his beliefs throughout his journey. Though dismayed as to how rotten in the state of Denmark it is, Hamlet expresses his emotion s by reacting to his surroundings in a gallant manner (1.4.90). Upon meeting the ghost of the latish King, Hamlet is incensed by the horrific crime his uncle-father has committed (2.2.399). However, Hamlet does not immediately take the words of the ghost as factual in his second soliloquy he concludes the spirit that he has seen / may be a devil and that he cannot trust him without evidence (2.2.627-628). Hamlet decides the figure outs the occasion / wherein he will catch the conscience of the poof (2.2.633-634). Hamlet realizes the depravity of slaughtering a man based on the conjecture that he is a murderer. He refuses to place much(prenominal) marginal worth on an individual life as to take it without knowing the truth.In the most famous soliloquy of all the Shakespearean plays, Hamlet debates the value of life and the consequences of death Hamlet asks to be or not to be (3.1.64). Realizing that death is a misleading and temporary fix, as one knows not of what lies hereafter possibilities of eternal suffering from the pangs of despised love and lifes unanswered questions Hamlet concludes conscience does make cowards of us all and with over compend action is lost (3.1.74-96). Though the ghosts words attest to be true as the players reenact the murder of the late King Hamlet in The Mousetrap, Hamlet waits to execute his plan. Morality often stifles ones acceptance and trust in others. As his family has forsaken him, his childhood friends Rosencrantz and Guildenstern comply with the will of the king to remove him, and those living within the walls of Elsinore Castle perceive him to be insane, Hamlet has but one true confidant Horatio.Hamlets most enlighten epiphanic moment comes as he prepares for the match against Laertes he finally untangles the webs of deceit which have been clouding his moral judgment. He responds to Horatios worry for the battles conclusion by telling him, not a whit, we defy augury he further explains, man does not control fat e if it is meant to happen, it will (5.2.231-238). Hamlet has hitherto looked at life like a slow moving game of chess, evaluating each move he makes by weighing the consequences of the subsequent moves he now understands he must leave his fate in the hands of providence. Hamlets dawdling journey comes to a rapid close in the final act of the play. During the match against Laertes Hamlet is made witness first hand to his uncle-fathers crimes Claudius accidentally murders both Gertrude, with the wine he had poisoned for Hamlet, and Laertes, by the poisoned marque intended for Hamlet.Hamlet no longer stands idly by whilst the injustices of Claudius tear his country down. Though he too is poisoned by Laertes blade, Hamlet fights for the justice of Denmark and slays Claudius once and for all. The tragic resolution leaves a bloodstained Denmark distraught and uncertain, yet the heroic legacy of Hamlets valor and morality live on. Horatio recounts Hamlets tragic tale as Fortinbras of Nor way captures Denmark. Hamlet is buried like a soldier to a stage, / for he was likely, had he been put on, / to have proved the most royal (5.2.442-444). Though Hamlet never wishes to be king, his pure humanity and strong morals prove to manifest his capabilities, even after death. It is integral for either actor playing the role of Hamlet to be well versed in the characteristics of his Hamlet predecessors, and to embrace their qualities while learning from their frailties.Whether on stage or on film, Hamlet is one of the most challenging roles for any actor to play. Two contemporary silver screen adaptations of Hamlet by Kenneth Branagh and Franco Zeffirelli portray the unripened Prince as a grieving individual vying to keep his virtue as corruption ensues. Branagh presents Hamlets famous To be or not to be soliloquy as the cinematic essence of the unraveling of Hamlets layers. Hamlet questions the meaning of right and wrong, while searching for his own purpose within the mirrors . alas for Hamlet, the mirrors neither hold truths nor divulge answers, thus he is left feeling a forsaken sense of betrayal. Branaghs acting and directing are impressive in this scene, his emotions depict Hamlets internal conflict he attempts to keep hold of his morals in a world void of any such ethics. Zeffirellis interpretation of Hamlets renowned To be or not to be soliloquy captures a darker side the tragic hero.Though Mel Gibsons superb acting highlights Hamlets emotional conflict of where he morally stands, the distrait directorial choice to locate the scene in the family crypt conveys too vile a mood and is confusing to the audience. Zeffirellis redemption comes in a glorious form his interpretation of Hamlet and Horatios conversation in the plays final act. Zeffirelli shows an excellent understanding of the plays overall purpose. He depicts Hamlets epiphany as a monologue rather than the end of a discourse between friends. By omitting Horatio from the latter portion of this scene, the audience is able to see Hamlets shift in perspective give out on its own.Hamlet overlooks the ocean and its horizon as he decides let his fate rest in the ebb and flow of life. Contradictorily, Branagh, using Shakespeares superior context, does not enhance the viewers perception of Hamlets conflict. Rather Branagh chooses to show the intimate relationship between Hamlet and Horatio. Kenneth Branaghs tick off of symbolism in Hamlet delves into the true meaning beneath the pages of Shakespeares written word. He surpasses the usual film adaptations of a drama, which fail to provoke the imagination. He probes the audience with strong symbolism forcing thought, questioning, and imagination beyond the physical. Franco Zeffirelli, dissimilarity attempts to engage the viewer by shortening the scenes and speeches apropos to the common Hollywood adaptation.While the stride may be more exciting, it loses in cinematic depth. A great production of Hamlet incorporates the str ife between the external forces pulling man from his set and learned morals. Hamlet should be portrayed by his struggle to protect his humanity while those he cares for try to strip the essence of morality from him. As Hamlet traverses grief, the actor should have the emotional depth to connect with the viewer, and versatility to surpass the realm of pure poignancy to enter profundity.Hamlets instructions to the players should be heeded by any director let your own / discretion be your tutor. Suit the action to the / word, the word to the action, with the special / observance, that you overstep not the modesty of / constitution (3.2.17-21). Plays should convey a universal struggle of man and act as a window to the natural world, where the audience members are permitted to view the intimacies of a golf-club contrasting their own to this rule, Hamlet is no exception.Works CitedHamlet. Dir. Franco Zeffirelli. Perf. Mel Gibson, Glenn Close, and Alan Bates. DVD. Hamlet. Dir. Kenneth Branaugh. Perf. Kenneth Branaugh, Julie Christie, and Derek Jacobi. DVD. Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. Ed. Barbara A. Mowat. Simon & Schuster, 2003. Print.

Cebu in Philippines: Mabuhay Essay

Mabuhay It means Welcome in Philippines. And here, you truly atomic number 18. On Tourism Philippines Guide, youll muster comradely unbiased updated travel information for touring Philippines, what to see and what to avoid. More + CebuPosted by Roz Visarra on May 4th, 2009Filed Under Cebu, FeaturedCebuCEBU TRAVEL GUIDEWhy non GoWhy GoBest Time to VisitWhere to StayWhere & What to haveNightlifeTo Do ListStay A representation FromGetting ThereCebu is a very beautiful city with countless beaches and nature parks. It offers everything you need- from a relaxing retreat in a tropical island, to all the conveniences that a branch class metropolis rear end give. In contrast to the bustling metropolis, the rest of Cebu s 167 islets and islands ar lined with idyllic white sandy beaches and pristine lighten up waters.The Queen City of the South is the capital of the Visayas (also the political, economic, educational and cultural center of the Visayas) and is the second biggest city in the coun show. Located in between two straits, and any(prenominal)(prenominal) surrounding islands, Cebu is roughly 225 kilometers long, a narrow island that is home to 2.4 million people.Cebu is the jump-off point to satellite destinations in the Visayas and Mindanao Islands Leyte, Samar, Dumaguete, Siquijor, Cagayan De Oro, Camiguin & Surigao Del Norte.Spectacular tubing Cebu This is an aerial control of Metro Cebu, screening Cebu City (top left), Mandaue City(right), Mactan Channel(the body of water), and LapuLapu City(part of Mactan Island, bottom left). The bridge farther in the image is the first Mactan-Mandaue bridge, the second one is the Marcelo Fernan Bridge. This is one of the finest aerial shots I have for Metro Cebu. The timing was perfect for the plane to take this approach, the weather was right, the sun was like a flood light that is constantly illuminating the subject from this angle. This angle and this view was observable for just a few seconds. Luckily, I was able to take the shot within that time frame. Photo by storm-cryptThe Heart of Cebu City The western sandwich half of Osmena Boulevard, from the Fuente Osmena circle to Cebus provincial capitol. Photo by storm-cryptWhy Not GoEverybody sleep togethers to go to Cebu so on that point is really no former why anyone would not call for to go there, if given the chance. Although if you want to go to a very quiet, provincial place, you give the axe always go to its neighboring towns such(prenominal) as Bantayan, Badian and Argao.Why GoCant Outdo Cebu With an island like this, it is difficult to miss summertime in Cebu. A resort on the eastmost side, and in the foreground(west side), is a fish sanctuary, teeming with corals, and a huge variety of species of fish, that you can view closely to the point that you can touch them. And you can do all that with just snorkeling. Shot taken off the southeastern coast of Mactan Island, just a few minutes of side trip on the way to the airpor t. This island is called Hilutungan Island a few kilometers off the southeast coast of Mactan Island. Photo by storm-cryptSimply because Cebu has it all. If you are looking for a place to spend your honeymoon, there are several 5 star resorts nearby. If you are planning afamily vacation, you can enjoy parasailing and scuba diving in the island hotels, and you can also go mountain climbing or camping in one of its nature parks. When it is thrill and excitement you long for, it has a one-of-a-kind amusement park that you cannot find anyplace else- the Sky Experience Adventure at Crown Regency. Now, if it is shopping and dining you want, Cebu has it too a lot of them in fact. Anything which your adventurous and wandering heart desires, you can find it in Cebu.Central Cebu Mountains Going strait to north from the municipality of Sibonga will get you to this point.Taken somewhere in central Cebus mountain range, shortly forward heading east to the city of Cebu. Photo by storm-cryptBest Time to VisitSummer in Cebu is usually very hot while in November-January, the wind is often cold. If you want to frolic in the beach, you should go there during summer which is from March to May. But, if you want to see what Cebu has in store for all its visitors, go there in January, specifically on the 3rd week as this is the time they celebrate one of the countrys biggest festivities, the Sinulog. But you need to record early as hotels are bound to be booked even a week or two before the festival. The rainy season begins in July bringing torrential downpours that would sometimes inhibit movement, typhoon action at law is minor compared with other parts of the Philippines.Sinulog Sinulog, on the third weekend in January, follows the baby Jesus (Santo Nino) with a solemn religious parade on Friday evening, and an all-day festival on Saturday. Sort of like Carnival with thousands of participants. Spectacular These girls are your average Filipino teenagers, save are dressed up in the style of cultural minorities who still live in the more than remote locals of the country. Photo by friskodudeThe Cebuanos flair for showmanship and love for celebrations is manifested in the Sinulog, a colorful festival of pageant proportion observed every third Sunday of January. Sinulog is a dance ritual in honor of themiraculous image of the Santo Nio. The dance moves two steps forward and one step backward to the sound of the drums. This resembles the current (Sulog) of what was then known as Cebus Pahina River. Thus, in Cebuano, they say its Sinulog.SINULOG 07Photo by 2rokbotoyWhere to StaySave up to 75% on hotels in PhilippinesSince Cebu has always been a general tourist destination, it is equipped with hotels and resorts for every budget. If you want to splurge a bit to experience luxury at its best, you can stay at the following hotels and resorts Marco Polo Plaza- determined at Nivel Hills, this is a gravid hotel with such awesome customer service. The pabulum buffet at Caf Marco is like no other, plus you get a grotesque view of the city. place start at around $105.Waterfront Hotel and Casino- there are two Waterfront Hotels, one is beside the airport and the other is within the uptown area but I would recommend the hotel in the uptown area because it is so much nicer, with better amenities. Plus it is near everything else. Rate starts at $95.Plantation Bay- this is located in Lapu-Lapu, it is an island city just rough 30 minutes away from Cebu. This is a truly lovely resort where you can really experience luxury and relaxation. rank start at $150++.Shangrila Mactan Resort and Spa- this is probably the most popular resort in Cebu and with good reason too. It has a beautiful beach front, melted pools, a huge garden, a play area for kids plus a wonderful spa. Rates start at $165++.If you are on a budget, you may prefer to stay at cheaper hotels. Dont worry, Cebu has a lot of them and they are quite clean and nice too.Golden Peak Hot el- located in uptown Cebu this is a newly built hotel. Rates start at $30.Maxwell Hotel- another newly built hotel, with a spa and burnt umber shop with free DSL internet. Rates start atGolden Prince Hotel- this hotel is very near food and shopping establishments, particularly one of Cebus biggest malls which is Ayala. Rates start at $49.Heritage of Cebu The Heritage of Cebu monument in Parian showcases the significant events of Cebu. You can also see sculptures of Lapu-lapu, Rajah Humabon, Ferdinand Magellan, martyr Pedro Calunsod and other prominent historical figures that have moved and shaped Cebu in more ways than one. This monument is the work of national artist Edgardo Castrillo. It was constructed on July 1997 was inaugurated on Dec. 8, 2000. Photo by Brennan MercadoWhere & What to EatAbuhan- Have you ever heard of Pochero? It is a great tasting soup with pork or beef bone marrow, corn and cabbages. Abuhan is famous for it. You can try this in one of their 3 brances. I wo uld recommend the branch they have at Asiatown IT Park.Golden Cowrie-This is probably the most frequented Filipino restaurant, particularly by tourists. Their food is simply amazing. You can try their sauted mushroom and chicken pandan. They have 3 branches in Lahug, SM, and Hukad in Ayala.Spice Fusion- this restaurant offers Asian Cuisines that are quite delicious. A favorite, roti in curry sauce is highly recommended. Spice Fusion has two branches, one at the Banilad Town Center and the other one at North Wing, in SM.Sutukil- visitors should never leave Cebu without going to the famous SUTUKIL. It is an area with several restaurants offering the freshest seafood. You can actually choose from live fish, crabs, and shrimps, and then you can have it cooked SUTUKIL style, which comprises three different food grilled, raw (with vinegar, tomatoes, ginger and chili), and soup. This is located beside the Mactan Shrine in Lapu-Lapu.Caf Laguna-a place where you can taste authentic Filipino dishes. turn out their bistek tagalog, it is simply heaven to the palate. You can find Caf Laguna in the mall and garden area of Ayala Mall.Larsians- sample Cebus street food at its finest. grill chicken, pork and fish plus you can try their puso or what others call hanging rice. It is rice wrapped and cooked in palm leaves.Harbour City Dimsum- great Chinese food- try their siomai and steam rice. Harbour City has branches in two malls, Ayala and SM.NightlifeCebu has lots of places to go to enjoy your night from downtown to uptown, Metropolitan Cebu comes even more alive as dusk sets in, with queues leading to music bars, discos and the casinos.If you want to go dancing, you can go to Sunflower at Lahug, or at Pump in Archbishop Reyes Street. If you want to go Karaoke, you can go to POD5 at the Banilad Town Center, or at K1 KTV at the Crossroads. If you just want to hang out in a restobar, you can go to Sinners and Saints in Banilad or a sportsbar called Badgers. You can also go t o T.G.I.F. in Ayala where the food, beer and service are really good. Now if you just want to have some nice and quiet evening, you can go to Tops, it sure is nice there during the night you get to see all the lights around Cebu.My to do ListIsland Hopping- You can rent a pumpboat for about $60 and this will take you to 3 beautiful islands around Cebu. It is a whole day activity so you may want to bring in some lunch and snacks.Mountain View- You can go there day or night- it does not consequence as they are open 24/7. It is full of tall trees and flowers, plus hangout areas and playgrounds for kids. You also get a great view of the city at the top. Entrance fee $1.25 per personNature Tripping- You can go to one of its many waterfalls, especially the one in Badian which is the Kawasan Falls, it is about 2 hours away from the city.Bantayan Island- This is about a 3 hour drive to the southernmost port, and then you will take a RoRo to the island which is about an hours travel. Banta yan is great for those who want some quiet time in sugary white sand beaches.Turtle with two live sharksuckersPhoto by alfonsatorMoalboal- You should go there if you want to dive. It is about 2 hours away from the city. They have several diving packages at different rates. The islands of Mactan and Camotes are not to missed by diver addicts too.Sky Experience- located at the heart of the city, this is where the citys tallest building is. Experience the thrill of walking hundreds of feet above groundBasilica del Sto. Nino- this very old church is located at the heart of downtown Cebu. There you can see the many faces and images of the Little Jesus. It has been said that miracles happen if you ask the Sto. Nino to pray for you.Cebu CathedralPhoto by neiltootShopping- there are two kinds of shopping you can do-high end and low end. You can find some really good buys in downtown Cebu, specifically at Colon Street where tops can go as low as $2. You can also go to two big malls where yo u can find clothes, shoes and accessories Ayala Mall and SM.Stay Away FromCebu is also home to a lot of pickpockets and robbers. Stay away from the downtown area late at night. yet during the day, you should keep your valuables in places where it is difficult for robbers to get access to it.

Angels Demons Chapter 28-31

28Secretary Sylvie Baudeloque was this instant in a panic. She paced outside the managers empty office. Where the hell is he? What do I do?It had been a bizarre day. Of course, any day working for Maximilian Kohler had the potential to be strange, but Kohler had been in rare form today.Find me da Vinci Vetra he had de compositionded when Sylvie arrived this morning.Dutifully, Sylvie paged, knelld, and E-mailed Leonardo Vetra.Nothing.So Kohler had left in a huff, apparently to go find Vetra himself. When he rolled back in a a couple of(prenominal) hours later, Kohler looked decidedly non well not that he ever actually looked well, but he looked worse than usual. He locked himself in his office, and she could hear him on his modem, his ph mavin, faxing, talking. hence Kohler rolled out again. He hadnt been back since.Sylvie had decided to ignore the antics as yet another Kohlerian melodrama, but she began to get concerned when Kohler failed to return at the comely time for his d aily injections the directors physical condition required regular treatment, and when he decided to push his luck, the results were never pretty respiratory shock, coughing fits, and a half-baked dash by the infirmary personnel. Some quantify Sylvie thought Maximilian Kohler had a death wish.She considered paging him to remind him, but shed learned charity was something Kohlerss pride despised. Last week, he had become so enraged with a visiting scientist who had shown him undue pity that Kohler clambered to his feet and threw a clipboard at the mans head. King Kohler could be surprisingly agile when he was pisse.At the moment, however, Sylvies concern for the directors health was taking a back burner replaced by a much more pressing dilemma. The CERN switchboard had phoned five minutes ago in a frenzy to say they had an urgent call for the director.Hes not available, Sylvie had said.Then the CERN operator told her who was calling.Sylvie half laughed aloud. Youre kidding, right? S he listened, and her face clouded with disbelief. And your caller ID confirms Sylvie was frowning. I see. Okay. tolerate you ask what the She sighed. No. Thats fine. Tell him to hold. Ill locate the director right away. Yes, I understand. Ill hurry.But Sylvie had not been able to find the director. She had called his cell line three times and each time gotten the same message The mobile customer you are trying to reach is out of range. Out of range? How far could he go? So Sylvie had dialed Kohlers beeper. Twice. No response. Most unlike him. Shed in time E-mailed his mobile com droper. Nothing. It was like the man had disappeared off the face of the earth.So what do I do? she now wondered.Short of searching CERNs entire complex herself, Sylvie knew there was exactly one other way to get the directors attention. He would not be pleased, but the man on the phone was not someone the director should keep waiting. Nor did it sound like the caller was in any mood to be told the di rector was unavailable. ball over with her own boldness, Sylvie made her decision. She walked into Kohlers office and went to the metal box on his wall behind his desk. She open up the cover, stared at the controls, and comprise the correct button.Then she took a complicated breath and grabbed the microphone.29Vittoria did not remember how they had gotten to the main elevator, but they were there. Ascending. Kohler was behind her, his breathing labored now. Langdons concerned gaze capitulumed through her like a ghost. He had taken the fax from her hand and slipped it in his jacket pocket away from her sight, but the image was still burned into her memory.As the elevator climbed, Vittorias world swirled into darkness. protoactinium In her mind she reached for him. For bonny a moment, in the oasis of her memory, Vittoria was with him. She was nine years old, rolling down hills of edelweiss flowers, the Swiss sky spinning overhead. pop music PapaLeonardo Vetra was laughing beside her, beaming. What is it, angel?Papa she giggled, nuzzling close to him. Ask me whats the matterBut you look happy, sweetie. Why would I ask you whats the matter? unspoilt ask me.He shrugged. Whats the matter?She immediately started laughing. Whats the matter? Everything is the matter Rocks Trees Atoms Even anteaters Everything is the matterHe laughed. Did you make that up?Pretty smart, huh?My little Einstein.She frowned. He has wild hair. I saw his picture.Hes got a smart head, though. I told you what he proved, right?Her eyes widened with dread. Dad No You promisedE=MC2 He tickled her playfully. E=MC2No mathematics I told you I hate itIm glad you hate it. Because girls arent even allowed to do math.Vittoria stopped short. They arent?Of course not. Everyone receives that. Girls play with dollies. Boys do math. No math for girls. Im not even permitted to talk to little girls about math.What But thats not fairRules are rules. Absolutely no math for little girls.Vittoria looked hor rified. But dolls are boringIm sorry, her mystify said. I could tell you about math, but if I got caught He looked nervously around the deserted hills.Vittoria followed his gaze. Okay, she whispered, on the button tell me quietly.The motion of the elevator startled her. Vittoria opened her eyes. He was gone.Reality rushed in, wrapping a frosty grip around her. She looked to Langdon. The earnest concern in his gaze felt like the ecstasy of a guardian angel, especially in the aura of Kohlers chill.A single sentient thought began pounding at Vittoria with unrelenting force.Where is the antimatter?The horrifying answer was only a moment away.30Maximilian Kohler. Kindly call your office immediately.Blazing sunbeams flooded Langdons eyes as the elevator doors opened into the main atrium. Before the noise of the announcement on the intercom overhead faded, every electronic device on Kohlers wheelchair started beeping and buzzing simultaneously. His pager. His phone. His E-mail. Kohler glanced down at the blinking shed light ons in apparent bewilderment. The director had resurfaced, and he was back in range.Director Kohler. Please call your office.The sound of his name on the PA seemed to startle Kohler.He glanced up, looking angered and past al approximately immediately concerned. Langdons eyes met his, and Vittorias too. The three of them were motionless a moment, as if all the tension between them had been erased and replaced by a single, unifying foreboding.Kohler took his cell phone from the armrest. He dialed an extension and fought off another coughing fit. Vittoria and Langdon waited.This is Director Kohler, he said, wheezing. Yes? I was subterranean, out of range. He listened, his gray eyes widening. Who? Yes, patch it through. There was a pause. Hello? This is Maximilian Kohler. I am the director of CERN. With whom am I speaking?Vittoria and Langdon watched in silence as Kohler listened.It would be unwise, Kohler finally said, to speak of this by phone . I will be there immediately. He was coughing again. have-to doe with me at Leonardo da Vinci Airport. Forty minutes. Kohlers breath seemed to be failing him now. He descended into a fit of coughing and barely managed to choke out the words, Locate the canister immediately I am coming. Then he clicked off his phone.Vittoria ran to Kohlers side, but Kohler could no longer speak. Langdon watched as Vittoria pulled out her cell phone and paged CERNs infirmary. Langdon felt like a ship on the periphery of a storm tossed but detached.Meet me at Leonardo da Vinci Airport. Kohlers words echoed.The uncertain shadows that had fogged Langdons mind all morning, in a single instant, solidified into a vivid image. As he stood there in the swirl of confusion, he felt a door inside him open as if some mystic threshold had just been breached. The ambigram. The murdered priest/scientist. The antimatter. And now the target. Leonardo da Vinci Airport could only mean one thing. In a moment of stark r ealization, Langdon knew he had just crossed over. He had become a conceptualizer.Five kilotons. Let there be light.Two paramedics materialized, racing across the atrium in white smocks. They knelt by Kohler, displace an oxygen mask on his face. Scientists in the hall stopped and stood back.Kohler took two long pulls, pushed the mask aside, and still gasping for air, looked up at Vittoria and Langdon. capital of Italy.Rome? Vittoria demanded. The antimatter is in Rome? Who called?Kohlers face was twisted, his gray eyes watering. The Swiss He choked on the words, and the paramedics put the mask back over his face. As they prepared to take him away, Kohler reached up and grabbed Langdons arm.Langdon nodded. He knew.Go Kohler wheezed beneath his mask. Go call me Then the paramedics were rolling him away.Vittoria stood riveted to the floor, watching him go. Then she turned to Langdon. Rome? But what was that about the Swiss?Langdon put a hand on her shoulder, barely whispering the wor ds. The Swiss Guard, he said. The sworn sentinels of Vatican City.31The X-33 space plane roared into the sky and arched south toward Rome. On board, Langdon sat in silence. The last fifteen minutes had been a blur. Now that he had finished briefing Vittoria on the Illuminati and their covenant against the Vatican, the scope of this situation was first to sink in.What the hell am I doing? Langdon wondered. I should have gone home when I had the chance Deep down, though, he knew hed never had the chance.Langdons better taste had screamed at him to return to Boston. Nonetheless, academic astonishment had somehow vetoed prudence. Everything he had ever entrustd about the demise of the Illuminati was suddenly looking like a brilliant sham. man of him craved proof. Confirmation. There was also a question of conscience. With Kohler ailing and Vittoria on her own, Langdon knew that if his knowledge of the Illuminati could assist in any way, he had a moral debt instrument to be here.The re was more, though. Although Langdon was ashamed to admit it, his initial horror on hearing about the antimatters location was not only the danger to human tone in Vatican City, but for something else as well.Art.The worlds largest art collection was now sitting on a time bomb. The Vatican Museum housed over 60,000 valuable pieces in 1,407 rooms Michelangelo, da Vinci, Bernini, Botticelli. Langdon wondered if all of the art could possibly be evacuated if necessary. He knew it was impossible. Many of the pieces were sculptures weighing tons. Not to mention, the greatest treasures were architectural the Sistine Chapel, St. Peters Basilica, Michelangelos famed spiral staircase leading to the Museo Vaticano priceless testaments to mans creative genius. Langdon wondered how much time was left on the canister.Thanks for coming, Vittoria said, her voice quiet.Langdon emerged from his daydream and looked up. Vittoria was sitting across the aisle. Even in the stark fluorescent light of the cabin, there was an aura of composure about her an almost magnetic radiance of wholeness. Her breathing seemed deeper now, as if a spark of self-preservation had ignited deep down her a hunger for justice and retribution, fueled by a daughters love.Vittoria had not had time to change from her shorts and sleeveless top, and her tawny legs were now goose-bumped in the cold of the plane. Instinctively Langdon upstage his jacket and offered it to her.American chivalry? She accepted, her eyes thanking him silently.The plane jostled across some turbulence, and Langdon felt a surge of danger. The windowless cabin felt cramped again, and he move to imagine himself in an open field. The notion, he realized, was ironic. He had been in an open field when it had happened. Crushing darkness. He pushed the memory from his mind. Ancient history.Vittoria was watching him. Do you believe in God, Mr. Langdon?The question startled him. The earnestness in Vittorias voice was even more disarmin g than the inquiry. Do I believe in God? He had hoped for a lighter topic of conversation to pass the trip.A spiritual conundrum, Langdon thought. Thats what my friends call me. Although he studied religion for years, Langdon was not a religious man. He respected the power of faith, the benevolence of churches, the strength religion gave to many people and yet, for him, the intellectual suspension of disbelief that was imperative if one were truly going to believe had always proved too big an obstacle for his academic mind. I want to believe, he heard himself say.Vittorias reply carried no judgment or challenge. So why dont you?He chuckled. Well, its not that easy. Having faith requires leaps of faith, cerebral acceptance of miracles immaculate conceptions and divine interventions. And then there are the codes of conduct. The Bible, the Koran, Buddhist scripture they all dribble similar requirements and similar penalties. They claim that if I dont live by a specific code I will g o to hell. I cant imagine a God who would rule that way.I hope you dont let your students dodge questions that shamelessly.The comment caught him off guard. What?Mr. Langdon, I did not ask if you believe what man says about God. I asked if you believed in God. There is a difference. Holy scripture is stories legends and history of mans quest to understand his own need for meaning. I am not asking you to pass judgment on literature. I am asking if you believe in God. When you lie out under the stars, do you sense the divine? Do you find in your gut that you are staring up at the work of Gods hand?Langdon took a long moment to consider it.Im prying, Vittoria apologized.No, I just sure you must debate issues of faith with your classes.Endlessly.And you play devils advocate, I imagine. Always fueling the debate.Langdon smiled. You must be a teacher too.No, but I learned from a master. My father could argue two sides of a Mobius Strip.Langdon laughed, picturing the artful crafting of a Mobius Strip a twisted ring of paper, which technically possessed only one side. Langdon had first seen the single-sided shape in the artwork of M. C. Escher. May I ask you a question, Ms. Vetra?Call me Vittoria. Ms. Vetra makes me feel old.He sighed inwardly, suddenly sensing his own age. Vittoria, Im Robert.You had a question.Yes. As a scientist and the daughter of a Catholic priest, what do you think of religion?Vittoria paused, brushing a lock of hair from her eyes. Religion is like words or dress. We gravitate toward the practices with which we were raised. In the end, though, we are all proclaiming the same thing. That life has meaning. That we are grateful for the power that created us.Langdon was intrigued. So youre saying that whether you are a Christian or a Muslim simply depends on where you were born?Isnt it obvious? Look at the diffusion of religion around the globe.So faith is ergodic?Hardly. Faith is universal. Our specific methods for understanding it are arbitrary . Some of us pray to Jesus, some of us go to Mecca, some of us study subatomic particles. In the end we are all just searching for truth, that which is greater than ourselves.Langdon wished his students could express themselves so clearly. Hell, he wished he could express himself so clearly. And God? he asked. Do you believe in God?Vittoria was silent for a long time. Science tells me God must exist. My mind tells me I will never understand God. And my life tells me I am not meant to.Hows that for concise, he thought. So you believe God is fact, but we will never understand Him.Her, she said with a smile. Your Native Americans had it right.Langdon chuckled. pay back Earth.Gaea. The planet is an organism. All of us are cells with different purposes. And yet we are intertwined. Serving each other. Serving the whole.Looking at her, Langdon felt something stir within him that he had not felt in a long time. There was a bewitching clarity in her eyes a purity in her voice. He felt draw n.Mr. Langdon, let me ask you another question.Robert, he said. Mr. Langdon makes me feel old. I am oldIf you dont mind my asking, Robert, how did you get involved with the Illuminati?Langdon thought back. Actually, it was money.Vittoria looked disappointed. notes? Consulting, you mean?Langdon laughed, realizing how it must have sounded. No. Money as in currency. He reached in his pants pocket and pulled out some money. He found a one-dollar bill. I became fascinated with the cult when I first learned that U.S. currency is covered with Illuminati figureogy.Vittorias eyes narrowed, apparently not knowing whether or not to take him seriously.Langdon handed her the bill. Look at the back. See the Great Seal on the left?Vittoria turned the one-dollar bill over. You mean the pyramid?The pyramid. Do you know what pyramids have to do with U.S. history?Vittoria shrugged.Exactly, Langdon said. Absolutely nothing.Vittoria frowned. So why is it the central image of your Great Seal?An eerie bit of history, Langdon said. The pyramid is an occult symbol representing a convergence upward, toward the ultimate source of Illumination. See whats above it?Vittoria studied the bill. An eye inside a triangle.Its called the trinacria. Have you ever seen that eye in a triangle anywhere else?Vittoria was silent a moment. Actually, yes, but Im not sureIts emblazoned on Masonic lodges around the world.The symbol is Masonic?Actually, no. Its Illuminati. They called it their shining delta. A call for enlightened change. The eye signifies the Illuminatis ability to infiltrate and watch all things. The shining triangle represents enlightenment. And the triangle is also the Greek letter delta, which is the mathematical symbol for Change. Transition.Langdon smiled. I forgot I was talking to a scientist.So youre saying the U.S. Great Seal is a call for enlightened, all-seeing change?Some would call it a tonic World Order.Vittoria seemed startled. She glanced down at the bill again. The wr iting under the pyramid says Novus OrdoNovus Ordo Seculorum, Langdon said. It means New Secular Order.Secular as in non religious?Nonreligious. The verbiage not only clearly states the Illuminati objective, but it also blatantly contradicts the phrase beside it. In God We Trust.Vittoria seemed troubled. But how could all this symbology end up on the most powerful currency in the world?Most academics believe it was through Vice President Henry Wallace. He was an upper echelon Mason and certainly had ties to the Illuminati. Whether it was as a member or innocently under their influence, nobody knows. But it was Wallace who sold the design of the Great Seal to the president.How? Why would the president have agree to The president was Franklin D. Roosevelt. Wallace simply told him Novus Ordo Seculorum meant New Deal.Vittoria seemed skeptical. And Roosevelt didnt have anyone else look at the symbol before telling the Treasury to print it?No need. He and Wallace were like brothers.Broth ers? crock up your history books, Langdon said with a smile. Franklin D. Roosevelt was a well-known Mason.

If I Could Meet Any Historical Figure Essay

If I could meet any historical figure I would chose to meet Rosa Parks. She is anunbelievable inspiration and a bulky role model. She is also a salient example for everyone that no matter what race you are, you should stand up for what you believe in. Rosa Parks is not tho one of the most important people in non-white History she is also a great role model for women everywhere.If I was ever darned to sit down and meet with her I would ask her how long it took her to get up enough courage to refuse to move. Ive often wondered if she planned that bulge out or if she did it as an adrenaline rush, spur of the moment kind of thing. If she had planned it out, I would ask her if she tried to get people to do it with her or if she precious to do it by herself-importance. What made her finally want to stand up for herself and do it?Next I would want to know if she had any role models her self and what she valued most in life. These characteristics are extremely important to me and in my opinion they show stability and strong sense of character. Its interesting to prize about if she valued the same type of things like me because she seems so much more courageous. Then would be a good time to inform her on how much of a role model she is and how much of an impact she made in the world today.On the topic of black people who made great impacts, she would probably wonder who else was big in black narrative. It would be my pleasure to tell her about many the great names in black history such as Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, Angela Davis, Wilma Rudolph, Sojourner Truth, Madam C.J. Walker and Malcolm X. Hopefully she would find this information interesting.I would have loved to have gotten the chance to meet her and debate all my questions with her. Im proud of her and I hope she can still see today what an impact she has made in American Black History.

The Da Vinci Code Chapter 100-101

CHAPTER 100Bishop Manuel Aringarosas body had endu ruby m whatever kinds of pain, and yet the searing heat of the bul permit wound in his chest felt profoundly foreign to him. Deep and grave. non a wound of the flesh plainly closer to the soul.He opened his eye, trying to see, tho the rain on his face blurred his vision. Where am I? He could feel powerful sections holding him, carrying his limp body like a rag doll, his black cassock flapping.Lifting a weary arm, he mopped his eyes and saw the man holding him was Silas. The great albino was struggling round off a misty sidewalk, shouting for a hospital, his voice a stock tickerrending wail of agony. His red eyes were focused dead ahead, tears streaming down his pale, blood-spattered face. My son, Aringarosa whispered, youre hurt. Silas glanced down, his visage contorted in anguish. I am so very sorry, Father. He seemed almost too pained to speak.No, Silas, Aringarosa repevasivenessd. It is I who am sorry. This is my fault. The teacher promised me there would be no killing, and I told you to obey him fully. I was too eager. Too fearful. You and I were deceived. The Teacher was never going to deliver us the Holy Grail.Cradled in the arms of the man he had taken in any those years ago, Bishop Aringarosa felt himself whirl around back in time. To Spain. To his modest beginnings, building a small Catholic church in Oviedo with Silas. And later, to refreshed York City, where he had proclaimed the glory of God with the hulk firearm Dei Center on Lexington Avenue.Five months ago, Aringarosa had received devastating news. His lifes work was in jeopardy. He recalled, with vivid detail, the meeting inside Castel Gandolfo that had changed his life the news that had put down this entire calamity into motion.Aringarosa had entered Gandolfos Astronomy Library with his head held high, fully expecting to be lauded by throngs of welcoming hands, all eager to pat him on the back for his ranking(a) work representing Catholicism in America.But only three people were present. The Vati enkindle secretariat. Obese. Dour. Two high-ranking Italian cardinals. Sanctimonious. Smug. Secretariat? Aringarosa said, puzzled. The rotund overseer of legal in the flesh(predicate) matters shook Aringarosas hand and moti onenessd to the chair opposite him. Please, make yourself comfortable.Aringarosa sat, sensing something was wrong.I am not skilled in small talk, Bishop, the secretariat said, so let me be direct nigh the reason for your visit.Please. Speak openly. Aringarosa glanced at the two cardinals, who seemed to be measuring him with self-righteous anticipation.As you are well aware, the secretariat said, His righteousness and others in Rome take aim been concerned lately with the political fallout from paper Deis more controversial practices.Aringarosa felt himself bristle instantly. He already had been by dint of this on numerous occasions with the new pontiff, who, to Aringarosas great dismay, h ad turned out to be a distressingly fervent voice for liberal change in the Church.I want to assure you, the secretariat added quickly, that His Holiness does not seek to change anything about the way you run your ministry.I should hope not accordingly why am I here?The enormous man sighed. Bishop, I am not sure how to say this indulgently, so I impart landed estate it directly. Two days ago, the Secretariat Council voted unanimously to revoke the Vaticans sanction of Opus Dei.Aringarosa was certain he had heard incorrectly. I beg your pardon?Plainly stated, six months from today, Opus Dei will no longer be considered a prelature of the Vatican. You will be a church unto yourself. The Holy See will be disassociating itself from you. His Holiness agrees and we are already drawing up the legal papers.But that is impossibleOn the contrary, it is quite possible. And necessary. His Holiness has become uneasy with your aggressive recruiting policies and your practices of bodily morti fication. He paused. Also your policies regarding women. Quite frankly, Opus Dei has become a liability and an embarrassment.Bishop Aringarosa was stupefied. An embarrassment?Certainly you cannot be surp skipd it has come to this.Opus Dei is the only Catholic organization whose numbers are growing We straightway have over eleven hundred priestsTrue. A troubling issue for us all.Aringarosa shot to his feet. require His Holiness if Opus Dei was an embarrassment in 1982 when we helped the Vatican BankThe Vatican will always be grateful for that, the secretariat said, his tone appeasing, and yet there are those who however believe your financial munificence in 1982 is the only reason you were granted prelature status in the first place.That is not true The insinuation pained Aringarosa deeply.Whatever the case, we plan to act in good faith. We are drawing up severance terms that will include a reimbursement of those monies. It will be paid in five installments.You are buying me off? Aringarosa demanded. Paying me to go quietly? When Opus Dei is the only remaining voice of reason unitary of the cardinals glanced up. Im sorry, did you say reason?Aringarosa leaned across the table, sharpening his tone to a point. Do you really wonder why Catholics are leaving the Church? Look around you, Cardinal. population have lost respect. The rigors of faith are gone. The doctrine has become a buffet line. Abstinence, confession, communion, baptism, mass take your pick choose whatever combination enlivens you and edit out the rest. What kind of spiritual guidance is the Church offering?Third-century laws, the second cardinal said, cannot be applied to the modern followers of Christ. The rules are not workable in todays society. Well, they seem to be working for Opus Dei Bishop Aringarosa, the secretariat said, his voice conclusive. Out of respect for your organizations relationship with the previous Pope, His Holiness will be giving Opus Dei six months to voluntarily bre ak away from the Vatican. I suggest you cite your differences of opinion with the Holy See and establish yourself as your own Christian organization.I refuse Aringarosa declared. And Ill tell him that in person Im afraid His Holiness no longer cares to meet with you. Aringarosa stood up. He would not dare abolish a personal prelature established by a previous Pope Im sorry. The secretariats eyes did not flinch. The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away. Aringarosa had staggered from that meeting in bewilderment and panic. Returning to New York, he stared out at the skyline in disenchantment for days, overwhelmed with sadness for the future of Christianity.It was several weeks later that he received the phone call that changed all that. The caller soundedFrench and identified himself as the Teacher a title common in the prelature. He said he knew of the Vaticans plans to pull support from Opus Dei.How could he know that? Aringarosa wondered. He had hoped only a handful of Vatican po wer brokers knew of Opus Deis impending annulment. Apparently the word was out. When it came to containing gossip, no walls in the world were as porous as those surrounding Vatican City.I have ears everywhere, Bishop, the Teacher whispered, and with these ears I have gained certain knowledge. With your help, I can uncover the hiding place of a sacred relic that will bring you enormous power enough power to make the Vatican bow before you. Enough power to save the Faith. He paused. Not just for Opus Dei. But for all of us.The Lord taketh awayand the Lord giveth.Aringarosa felt a glorious ray of hope. Tell me your plan.Bishop Aringarosa was unconscious when the doors of St. Marys hospital hissed open. Silas lurched into the entryway delirious with exhaustion. Dropping to his knees on the tile tier, he cried out for help. Everyone in the reception area gaped in wonderment at the half-naked albino offering forrard a bleeding clergyman.The doctor who helped Silas heave the delirious b ishop onto a gurney hearted gloomy as he felt Aringarosas pulse. Hes lost a lot of blood. I am not hopeful. Aringarosas eyes flickered, and he returned for a moment, his gaze locating Silas. My child Silass soul thundered with remorse and rage. Father, if it takes my lifetime, I will find the one who deceived us, and I will kill him.Aringarosa shook his head, looking sad as they prepared to wheel him away. Silas if you have learned nothing from me, please learn this. He took Silass hand and gave it a firm squeeze. Forgiveness is Gods greatest gift.But FatherAringarosa closed his eyes. Silas, you must pray.CHAPTER 101Robert Langdon stood beneath the lofty cupola of the deserted Chapter House and stared into the barrel of Leigh Teabings gun.Robert, are you with me, or against me? The Royal Historians words echoed in the hush of Langdons mind. in that location was no viable response, Langdon knew. Answer yes, and he would be selling out Sophie. Answer no, and Teabing would have no ch oice but to kill them both.Langdons years in the classroom had not imbued him with any skills relevant to handling confrontations at gunpoint, but the classroom had taught him something about answer paradoxical questions. When a question has no correct answer, there is only one honest response.The gray area between yes and no.Silence.Staring at the cryptex in his hands, Langdon chose simply to walk away.Without ever lifting his eyes, he stepped backward, out into the rooms vast empty spaces. Neutral ground.He hoped his focus on the cryptex signaled Teabing that collaboration big businessman be an option, and that his lock signaled Sophie he had not abandoned her.All the while buying time to think.The act of thinking, Langdon suspected, was exactly what Teabing wanted him to do. Thats whyhe handed me the cryptex.So I could feel the weight of my decision.The British historian hoped the touch of the Grand Masters cryptex would make Langdon fully grasp the magnitude of its contents, coaxing his academic curiosity to overwhelm all else, forcing him to realize that failure to unlock the pillar would mean the loss of history itself.With Sophie at gunpoint across the room, Langdon feared that discovering the cryptexs elusive password would be his only remaining hope of bartering her release. If I can free the map, Teabingwill negotiate.Forcing his mind to this critical task, Langdon moved slowly toward the far windows allowing his mind to fill with the numerous astronomical images on Newtons tomb.You seek the circle that ought be on his tomb. It speaks of Rosy flesh and seeded womb.Turning his back to the others, he walked toward the towering windows, searching for any inspiration in their stained-glass mosaics. There was none.Place yourself in Saunieres mind, he urged, gazing outward now into College Garden. What wouldhe believe is the orb that ought be on Newtons tomb? Images of stars, comets, and planets twinkled in the falling rain, but Langdon ignored them. Sauniere was not a man of science. He was a man of humanity, of art, of history. The sacred femininethe chalicethe Rosethe banishedMary Magdalenethe decline of the goddessthe Holy Grail.Legend had always portrayed the Grail as a ferocious mistress, dancing in the shadows just out of sight, whispering in your ear, luring you one more step and then evaporating into the mist.Gazing out at the rustling trees of College Garden, Langdon sensed her teasing presence. The signs were everywhere. Like a taunting silhouette emerging from the fog, the branches of Britains oldest apple tree burgeoned with five-petaled blossoms, all glistening like Venus. The goddess was in the garden now. She was dancing in the rain, sing songs of the ages, peeking out from behind the bud-filled branches as if to remind Langdon that the fruit of knowledge was growing just beyond his reach.Across the room, Sir Leigh Teabing watched with confidence as Langdon gazed out the window as if under a spell. Exactly as I hoped, Teabing thought. He will come around.For some time now, Teabing had suspected Langdon might hold the key to the Grail. It was no coincidence that Teabing launched his plan into action on the same night Langdon was scheduled to meet Jacques Sauniere. Listening in on the curator, Teabing was certain the mans eagerness to meet privately with Langdon could mean only one thing. Langdons mysterious manuscript has touched a nerve with the Priory.Langdon has stumbled onto a truth, and Sauniere fears its release.Teabing felt certain the Grand Master was summoning Langdon to silence him.The Truth has been silenced long enoughTeabing knew he had to act quickly. Silass attack would accomplish two goals. It would prevent Sauniere from persuading Langdon to keep quiet, and it would ensure that once the back was in Teabings hands, Langdon would be in Paris for recruitment should Teabing need him.Arranging the fatal meeting between Sauniere and Silas had been almost too easy. I had insid e information about Saunieres deepest fears.Yesterday afternoon, Silas had phoned the curator and posed as a distraught priest. Monsieur Sauniere, forgive me, I must speak to you at once. I should never breach the sanctity of the confessional, but in this case, I feel I must. I just took confession from a man who claimed to have murdered members of your family.Saunieres response was pass overled but wary. My family died in an accident. The police report was conclusive.Yes, a car accident, Silas said, baiting the hook. The man I spoke to said he forced their car off the road into a river. Sauniere fell still. Monsieur Sauniere, I would never have phoned you directly except this man made a comment which makes me now fear for your safety. He paused. The man besides mentioned your granddaughter, Sophie.The mention of Sophies name had been the catalyst. The curator leapt into action. He ordered Silasto come see him immediately in the safest location Sauniere knew his Louvre office. T hen he phoned Sophie to warn her she might be in danger. Drinks with Robert Langdon were instantly abandoned.Now, with Langdon separated from Sophie on the far side of the room, Teabing sensed he had successfully alienated the two companions from one another. Sophie Neveu remained defiant, but Langdon intelligibly saw the larger picture. He was trying to figure out the password. He understands the importance of finding the Grail and releasing her from bondage.He wont open it for you, Sophie said coldly. level(p) if he can.Teabing was glancing at Langdon as he held the gun on Sophie. He was fairly certain now he was going to have to use the weapon. Although the persuasion troubled him, he knew he would not hesitate if it came to that. I have given her every opportunity to do the right thing.The Grail is bigger than any one of us.At that moment, Langdon turned from the window. The tomb he said suddenly, facing them with a faint glimmer of hope in his eyes. I know where to look on N ewtons tomb. Yes, I think I can find the passwordTeabings heart soared. Where, Robert? Tell meSophie sounded horrified. Robert, no Youre not going to help him, are you?Langdon approached with a resolute stride, holding the cryptex before him. No, he said, his eyes rockyening as he turned to Leigh. Not until he lets you go.Teabings optimism darkened. We are so close, Robert. Dont you dare start playing games with meNo games, Langdon said. Let her go. Then Ill take you to Newtons tomb. Well open the cryptex together.Im not going anywhere, Sophie declared, her eyes narrowing with rage. That cryptex was given to me by my grandfather. It is not yours to open. Langdon wheeled, looking fearful. Sophie, please Youre in danger. Im trying to help you How? By unveiling the secret my grandfather died trying to protect? He trusted you, Robert. Itrusted youLangdons blue eyes showed panic now, and Teabing could not help but smile to see the two of them working against one another. Langdons attemp ts to be gallant were more pathetic than anything. On the verge of unveiling one of historys greatest secrets, and he troubles himself with a woman who has proven herself unworthy of the quest.Sophie, Langdon pleaded. Please you must leave.She shook her head. Not unless you either hand me the cryptex or smash it on the floor. What? Langdon gasped. Robert, my grandfather would prefer his secret lost forever than see it in the hands of his murderer. Sophies eyes looked as if they would well with tears, but they did not. She stared directly back at Teabing. Shoot me if you have to. I am not leaving my grandfathers legacy in your hands.Very well.Teabing aimed the weapon.No Langdon shouted, raising his arm and suspending the cryptex precariously over the hard stone floor. Leigh, if you even think about it, I will drop this.Teabing laughed. That bluff worked on Remy. Not on me. I know you better than that. Do you, Leigh? Yes I do. Your poker face needs work, my friend. It took me several seconds, but I can see now that you are lying. You have no idea where on Newtons tomb the answer lies. Truly, Robert? You know where on the tomb to look?I do.The falter in Langdons eyes was zip but Leigh caught it. There was a lie there. A desperate, pathetic ploy to save Sophie. Teabing felt a profound disappointment in Robert Langdon.I am a lone knight, surrounded by unworthy souls. And I will have to decipher the keystone on my own.Langdon and Neveu were nothing but a threat to Teabing now and to the Grail. As painful as the solution was going to be, he knew he could carry it out with a clean conscience. The only challenge would be to persuade Langdon to set down the keystone so Teabing could safely end this charade.A show of faith, Teabing said, lowering the gun from Sophie. invest down the keystone, and well talk.Langdon knew his lie had failed.He could see the dark resolve in Teabings face and knew the moment was upon them. When I setthis down, he will kill us both.Even with out looking at Sophie, he could hear her heart beseeching him in silent desperation. Robert, this man is not worthy of the Grail.Please do not place it in his hands.No matter what the cost.Langdon had already made his decision several minutes ago, while rest alone at the window overlooking College Garden.Protect Sophie. Protect the Grail. Langdon had almost shouted out in desperation. But I cannot see howThe stark moments of disillusionment had brought with them a clarity unlike any he had ever felt. The Truth is right before your eyes, Robert.He knew not from where the epiphany came. The Grailis not mocking you, she is calling out to a worthy soul.Now, bowing down like a subject several yards in front of Leigh Teabing, Langdon lowered the cryptex to within inches of the stone floor.Yes, Robert, Teabing whispered, aiming the gun at him. Set it down.Langdons eyes moved heavenward, up into the gaping void of the Chapter House cupola. Crouching lower, Langdon lowered his gaze to Teabi ngs gun, aimed directly at him.Im sorry, Leigh.In one fluid motion, Langdon leapt up, swinging his arm skyward, launching the cryptex straight up toward the dome above.Leigh Teabing did not feel his finger pull the trigger, but the Medusa discharged with a thundering crash. Langdons crouched form was now vertical, almost airborne, and the bullet exploded in the floor near Langdons feet. Half of Teabings brain attempted to adjust his aim and fire again in rage, but the more powerful half dragged his eyes upward into the cupola.The keystoneTime seemed to freeze, morphing into a slow-motion dream as Teabings entire world became the airborne keystone. He watched it rise to the apex of its climb hovering for a moment in the void and then tumbling downward, end over end, back toward the stone floor.All of Teabings hopes and dreams were plummeting toward earth. It cannot strike the floor I can reach it Teabings body reacted on instinct. He released the gun and heaved himself forward, dropp ing his crutches as he reached out with his soft, manicured hands. Stretching his arms and fingers, he snatched the keystone from midair.Falling forward with the keystone victoriously clutched in his hand, Teabing knew he was falling too fast. With nothing to break his fall, his outstretched arms hit first, and the cryptex collided hard with the floor.There was a sickening crunch of glass within.For a full second, Teabing did not breathe. Lying there outstretched on the cold floor, staring the length of his outstretched arms at the marble cylinder in his bare palms, he implored the glass vial inside to hold. Then the acrid tang of vinegar fire the air, and Teabing felt the cool liquid flowing out through the dials onto his palm.Wild panic gripped him. NO The vinegar was streaming now, and Teabing pictured the papyrus dissolving within. Robert, you rally The secret is lostTeabing felt himself sobbing uncontrollably. The Grail is gone.Everything destroyed.Shuddering in disbelief ove r Langdons actions, Teabing tried to force the cylinder apart, longing to catch a fleeting glimpse of history before it dissolved forever. To his shock, as he pulled the ends of the keystone, the cylinder separated.He gasped and peered inside. It was empty except for shards of wet glass. No dissolving papyrus. Teabing rolled over and looked up at Langdon. Sophie stood beside him, aiming the gun down at Teabing.Bewildered, Teabing looked back at the keystone and saw it. The dials were no longer at random. They spelled a five-letter word APPLE.The orb from which Eve partook, Langdon said coolly, incurring the Holy wrath of God. Original sin. The symbol of the fall of the sacred feminine.Teabing felt the truth come crashing down on him in excruciating austerity. The orb that ought be on Newtons tomb could be none other than the Rosy apple that fell from heaven, struck Newton on the head, and shake his lifes work. His labors fruit The Rosy flesh with a seeded wombRobert, Teabing stamme red, overwhelmed. You opened it. Where is the map?Without blinking, Langdon reached into the breast pocket of his tweed coat and carefully extracted a delicate rolled papyrus. Only a few yards from where Teabing lay, Langdon unrolled the scroll and looked at it. After a long moment, a knowing smile crossed Langdons face.He knows Teabings heart craved that knowledge. His lifes dream was right in front of him. Tell me Teabing demanded. Please Oh God, please Its not too lateAs the sound of heavy footsteps thundered down the hall toward the Chapter House, Langdon quietly rolled the papyrus and slipped it back in his pocket.No Teabing cried out, trying in vain to stand.When the doors burst open, Bezu Fache entered like a bull into a ring, his feral eyes scanning, finding his target Leigh Teabing helpless on the floor. Exhaling in relief, Fache holstered his Manurhin sidearm and turned to Sophie. Agent Neveu, I am relieved you and Mr. Langdon are safe. You should have come in when I ask ed.The British police entered on Faches heels, seizing the anguished prisoner and placing him in handcuffs.Sophie seemed stunned to see Fache. How did you find us?Fache pointed to Teabing. He made the mistake of showing his ID when he entered the abbey. The guards heard a police broadcast about our search for him.Its in Langdons pocket Teabing was screaming like a madman. The map to the Holy GrailAs they hoisted Teabing and carried him out, he threw back his head and howled. Robert Tell me where its hiddenAs Teabing passed, Langdon looked him in the eye. Only the worthy find the Grail, Leigh. You taught me that.

The Hunters: Moonsong Chapter Forty-One

It seemed standardised he and fair(a) had been waiting forever in the tiny back office of the library, flavorless thought. They had strained to catch a sound, to humble and learn anything at al about what was happening down there. just paced, wringing her hands and biting her lips, and he leaned against the wal , head lowered, and kept a good base on Samanthas stave. Just in case.He knew about al the doors and passages and tunnels down there, many of which he had no idea where they led, exactly he didnt realize the soundproofing was so good. They hadnt heard a thing.Then suddenly the trapdoor was pushing up, and matted tensed, raising the stave, until he saw Elenas face.Meredith, Elena, Stefan, and Damon climbed out, covered in blood, but basical y fine, if the eager course Elena and Meredith were tel ing Bonnie what happened, their words tumbling over each other, was any indication.Ethans dead, Stefan told categorical. There were rough other Vitales down there in the figh t, but none of the pledges. Hed send them out to hunt.Matt matte sick and weirdly happy at the same time. Hed pictured them dead at Damon and Stefans hands, Chloe, al his friends from pledging. tho they werent. Not dead, non real y. But transformed, vampires now.Youre going to hunt them, he tell, aiming his words at Stefan and Damon, and at Meredith, too. She nodded, her face resolved, and Damon looked away.We prolong to, Stefan told him. You energize it on that. Matt viewd hard at his shoes. Yeah, he said, I know.But, if you get a chance, maybe talk to some of them? If you can, if theyre reasonable and no ones in danger? perhaps they could learn to live without kil ing people. If you showed them how, Stefan. He rubbed at the back of his neck.Chloe was special. And the other pledges, they were good people. They didnt know what they were getting into. They deserve a chance.Everyone was silent, and, after a moment, Matt looked up to find Stefan regarding him, his eyeball da rk park with sympathy, his mouth pul ed taut in lines of pain. Il do my best, he said kindly. I can promise you that. But new vampires vampires in general, real y can be unpredictable. We might not be able to save any of them, and our priority has to be the innocent. We will try, though. Matt nodded. His mouth tasted sour and his eyes burned. He was beginning to realize besides how tired he was.Thats about the best I can expect, he said roughly. Thank you.So theres a whole room ful of dead vampires down there? Bonnie asked, wrinkling her nose in disgust.Pretty much, said Elena. We chained the doors closed again, but I call we could close the chamber off more permanently. Someones going to go down there eventual y, and the last thing this campus needs is another murder investigation, or another gruesome legend.Ta-da Bonnie said, grinning brightly and pul ing a light bag out of her pocket. Final y something I can do. She held the bag up. call back al the hours Mrs. Flowers made me spend studying herbs? Well, I know spel s for locking and warding, and Ive got the herbs to use right here. I thought they might come in handy, as soon as Matt told us we were going to a secret underground chamber. She looked so pleased with herself that Matt had to smile a little despite the heaviness inside him at the thought of Chloe and the others somewhere out in the night. They might not work for more than a day or two, she added modestly, but theyl definitely discourage people from investigating the trapdoor for that long.Youre a wonder, Bonnie, Elena said, and spontaneously hugged her.Stefan nodded. We can get rid of the bodies tomorrow, he said. Its too close to dawn to do it now. Bonnie got right to work, sprinkling dried plants across the trapdoor. Hyssop, Solomons seal, and damiana leaves, she said when she saw Matt watching her. Theyre for strengthening of locks, protection from evil, and general protection. Mrs. Flowers dril ed me on this throw so much I final y g ot them al down. Its too bad I didnt have her helping me with my homework in high school. Maybe I would have learned some of those French verbs. Damon was watching them, his eyes half hooded. We should look for the new vampires, too, he said. You know vampires arent pack animals. They wont hunt in concert for long. Once they split up, we can pick them off, he told Stefan.Im coming, too, Meredith said. She looked at Damon chal engingly. Il just walk Matt home and then meet up with you both.Damon smiled, a queerly warm smile that Matt had never seen him direct at Meredith beforehand. I was talking to you, too, hunter, he said. Youve gotten better. After a second, she smiled back, a humorous twist of her lips, and Matt thought he saw something that might be the beginnings of friendship flickering between them.So the Vitales were definitely behind al the murders and disappearances? Matt asked Stefan, feeling sick.How could he have spent so much time with Ethan and not suspected that h e was a murderer?Bonnies face went so white that her few freckles showed same little dark dots on plain paper. And then her color came flooding back, her cheeks and ears turning a bright pink. She climbed unsteadily to her feet. I should go see Zander, she said.Hey, Matt said, alarmed, and moved to block the door.Theres stil a whole bunch of vampires outside, Bonnie. Wait for somebody to walk you over.Not to mention that you have other commitments, Damon said dryly, looking meaning(prenominal) y at the herbs scattered across the trapdoor. After you work your witchy mojo, then you can go see your pet.Were sorry, Bonnie, Meredith said, shifting uncomfortably from one foot to another. We should have trusted you to know a good guy when you saw one.Right Al is forgiven, Bonnie said brightly, and plopped down in front of the trapdoor again. I just need to say the spel . She ran her hands through the herbs. Existo signum, she muttered. Servo quis est intus. As she scooped some of the her bs back into her bag, Bonnie kept smiling, and stopping, and staring into space, and then bouncing a little. Matt smiled at her tiredly. Good for Bonnie. Someone ought to have a happy ending.He felt a strong, thin hand take his and turned to see Meredith beside him. She smiled sympathetical y at him.Nearby, Elena laid her hand tentatively on Stefans arm, and they both had their eyes on Bonnie. Damon stood stil , watching them al with an almost fond expression.Matt leaned against Meredith, comforted. No numerate what happened, at least they were together. His true friends were with him he had come home to them at last.The sun was low in the east when Bonnie climbed up the fire escape, her feet clangorous on each step. As she came over the side of the building, she saw Zander sitting with his back against the rough concrete wal at the edge of the roof. He turned to stare at her as she came toward him.Hi, she said. Shed been so excited to see him on her way over here, enough so that Elena and Meredith got over their guilt and started to laugh at her, but now she felt weird and uncomfortable, like her head was too big. It was, she realized, total y possible that he wouldnt want to talk to her.After al , shed impeach him of being a murderer, which was a pretty big mistake for a girlfriend to make.Hi, he said slowly. There was a long pause, and then he patted the concrete next to him. Want to sit down? he asked. Im just watching the sky. He hesitated. Ful moon in a couple of days.Mentioning the ful moon felt like a chal enge, and Bonnie settled next to him, then squeezed her hands together and jumped right in. Im sorry I cal ed you a kil er, she said. I know now that I was wrong to accuse you of being responsible for the deaths on campus. I should have trusted you more. Please accept my apology, she finished in a little rush. Because I miss you. I miss you, too, Zander said. And I understand it was a shock.Seriously, though, Zander, Bonnie said, and shoved him a little with her hip. You just tel me youre a werewolf?Did you get bitten when you were a kid or something?Because I know getting bitten is the only way to become a werewolf without kil ing psyche. And, okay, I know youre not the kil er now, but Meredith saw you with a girl whod just been attacked. And and you had bruises, real y bad bruises everywhere. I think I had every right to think something was hinky with you.Hinky? Zander laughed a little, but there was an edge of sadness to it, Bonnie thought. I guess its kind of hinky, if you want to put it that way.Can you explain? Bonnie asked.Okay, Il try, Zander said profound y. He reached down and took her hand, turning it over in his and playing with her fingers, pul ing them lightly. As you apparently know, most werewolves are created either by being bitten, or by having the werewolf virus in their family and activating it by kil ing someone in a special ritual. So, either a terrible attack, which usual y screws the victim up, or a deliberate act of evil to grab the power of the wolf. He grimaced. It kind of explains why werewolves have such a bad reputation. But theres another kind of werewolf. He glanced at Bonnie with a sort of shy pride. I come from the Original pack of werewolves. Original. Bonnies mind raced. Immortal, she thought, and remembered Klaus, who had never been a human. So youre real y old, then? she asked hesitantly.It was fine, she guessed, for Elena to date guys who had seen centuries go by. Romantic, even. Sort of.Despite the crush shed had on Damon, though, Bonnie always pictured dating someone close to her own age.Even Merediths cute, smart Alaric seemed kind of old to her, and he was only in his twenties.Zander snorted with sudden laughter and squeezed her hand tight. No he said. I just turned twenty last monthWerewolves arent like that were alive. We live, we die.Were like everybody else, we justTurn into superstrong, superfast wolves, Bonnie said tartly.Yeah, fine, Zander said. Po int taken. Anyway, the Original pack is like, the lord family of werewolves. Most werewolves are infected by some kind of mystical virus. It can be passed down, but its dormant. The Original pack is descended from the very first werewolves, the ones that were cavemen pull out during the ful moon. Its in our genes.Were different from regular werewolves. We can stop ourselves from changing if we need to. We can learn to change when the moons not ful , too, although its difficult.If you can stop yourself from changing, do some of you stop being werewolves? Bonnie asked.Zander pul ed her closer. We would never stop being werewolves, even if we never changed at al . Its who we are. And it hurts to not change when the moon is ful . Its like it sings to us, and the song gets louder and clearer the closer it gets to being ful . Were aching to change by the time it happens.Wow, said Bonnie. Then her eyes widened. So, al your friends are members of the Original pack, too? Like, youre al rel ated?Um, Zander said. I guess. But the relationship can go back pretty far its not like were al first cousins or anything.Weird, Bonnie said. Okay, Original pack, got it. She snuggled her head comfortably against Zanders shoulder.Tel me the rest.Okay, Zander said again. He pushed his hair out of his eyes and wrapped one arm around Bonnie. It was getting a little cold sitting on the concrete, and she nestled grateful y against the warmth of his side. So, Dalcrest is on whats sort of a hot spot for para regulation activity. Theres these things cal ed ley lines, seeAlready know it, Bonnie said briskly. Go on with your part.Zander stared at her. O kay, he said slowly.Anyway, the High Wolf Council sends some of us to Dalcrest every year as students. So that we can monitor any dangers. Were kind of like watchdogs, I guess. The original watchdogs.Bonnie snorted. The High Wolf Council. Zander poked her in the ribs.Shut up, its not funny, he said. Theyre very important. Bonnie giggled agai n, and he elbowed her gently. So, with al the disappearances and attacks, things have been bad on campus this year, he continued, sobering. Much worse than they usual y are. Weve been investigating. A pack of vampires in a secret society on campus is behind it, and weve been fighting them off and protecting people when we can. But were not as strong as they are, except at the ful moon, even if we change. And so the bruises. And your friend seeing me guarding a girl whod just been attacked.Dont worry. We took care of the Vitale Society tonight, Bonnie said smugly. Well, the leader at least, and some of the others, she amended. Theres stil a bunch of vampires on campus, but wel get rid of them. Zander turned and stared at her for a long moment before he spoke. I think, he said at last in a careful y neutral voice, that its your turn to explain. Bonnie wasnt actual y that great at properly organized, logical explanations, but she did her best, going back and forth in time, adding side notes and remembering things as she went along. She told him about Stefan and Damon, and how everything had changed when the vampire brothers came to Fel s Church last year and Elena fel in love with them. She told him about Merediths sacred duty as a vampire hunter, and she told him about her own psychic visions and her gentility as a witch.She left a lot of stuff out everything about the Dark Dimension, and Elenas bargain with the Guardians, for instance, because that was real y confusing, and maybe she should tel him about it subsequent so he didnt just overload but the tel ing stil took a long time.Huh, Zander said when she was finished, and then he laughed.What? Bonnie asked.Youre a weird girl, Zander said. Pretty heroic, though.Bonnie pushed her face into his neck, happily breathing in the essential Zander smel of him fabric softener, worn cotton, and clean guy.Youre weird, she said, and then, admiringly, and the real hero. Youve been fighting off vampire attacks for weeks and weeks, to protect everybody.Were quite a pair, Zander said.Yeah, Bonnie said. She sat up and faced him, then reached out and ran her hand through his soft pale hair, pul ing his head closer to her. Stil , she said, just before their lips touched, normal is overrated.