Category: Uncategorized

Distant Love (Part 72)

Two cloaked figures walking on wet path near lit stone cottage during rain

“Oh God, come in! Your soaked. And Maeve, your not much better. Come on in the two of ye.” She gets a towel and starts patting him down.

“I’ll be okay,” Derek insists.

“It’ll be the death of ya. People get sick with a soakin’ ya know.” A deep now hung on her face. Then she continues. “I forgot to mention it earlier to either of you, there are a few people coming to meet Maeve later.”

“Who, auntie?” Maeve’s eyes open wide.

“Marcus and some of the others. They’ll be here in a couple of hours.”

The room goes silent.

“Who are they?” Derek enquired.

The older woman replied. “Oh friends of the family.” Both women looked knowingly at each other.

Derek thinks to himself. This is interesting. They must be resistance members that they are meeting, Best to play dumb.

He says, “Sure it will be good for me to meet your friends Maeve. It’s important that I get to know your circle.”

She looks at him with a smile. “Yes, it is. I hope you like them, they can be a raucous bunch. You won’t be seeing them that often anyway, they only come round every so often.”

Zendaya Shines in Euphoria’s Electrifying Season Premiere

Broken mirror shards, spilled foundation, red lipstick, powders, brushes, and glitter on a wooden surface

Euphoria Season 3 Episode 1, titled “Ándale,” is an electrifying return to form that reminds us exactly why this show has captivated audiences for years. After a long wait, the series picks up with its signature raw intensity, delivering a premiere that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in the chaotic lives we’ve come to know.

The opening sequence is one of the best I’ve seen in years. Rue tries to literally drive over Trumps wall (a very large palisade fence) using long planks of wood. They are already in place. However, she gets stuck at the top as the back wheels are in the air when she needs thrust to go downwards. Then she tries to move her weight around to see if it makes a difference, it doesn’t. So, she has to get out of the car, walk down the plank and walk. A classic start.

Zendaya once again delivers a powerhouse performance as Rue, capturing the vulnerability, wit, and quiet desperation of her character with breathtaking nuance. The episode’s opening sequence is a masterclass in tension and visuals—cinematography that is nothing short of stunning, blending high-stakes action with the show’s trademark stylized beauty. It’s thrilling, visually immersive, and sets a gripping tone for the new chapter as the characters navigate life beyond high school.

What stands out most is the blend of dark humor and emotional honesty that permeates the hour. Moments of levity cut through the heavier themes in ways that feel authentic and surprisingly funny, while the character dynamics remain as messy, compelling, and addictive as ever. The direction keeps everything feeling intimate yet epic, and the absence of over-the-top explicit content in this episode allows the story and performances to shine even brighter.This premiere expertly reintroduces us to a world that’s evolved but still pulses with the same heart-wrenching energy. It’s bold, beautifully crafted, and leaves you eagerly counting down the days until the next episode. If this is any indication, Season 3 is going to be an unforgettable ride. Highly recommended—Euphoria is back. Four stars out of five from me.

Wheelchair Wars Audrey 3 (v)

Human figure frozen in cryogenic chamber with frost and tubes in sci-fi lab

Within minutes, all the other troopers were in their pods.

Audrey shuffled herself forward in her chair and put on arm on the pod for support. “I’ll need your assistance, now.”

Brona supported her to stand and then to lay down into the pod. Her long hair draped over Audrey, she smelled of soap. Audrey felt a tingle run through her body.

Timothy would like her.

Pushing back her hair with her hand, she smiled. “Are you okay now?”

Feeling warm all over, Audrey smiled back. “That is fine. Go to your pod. When you wake, I will need your assistance once more.

Brona placed her hand on Audrey’s. Her hand was warm, soft. “I’ll be just over there.” Brona pointed to a nearby pod.

Audrey nodded, then pulled the translucent opening closed.

For a brief moment she wondered what awaited her on the other side. A strange new world full of horrible Sisters, no doubt Then her thoughts turned to Timothy, the love of her lfe and if she would ever see him again.

The pod turned cold. The hairs on her arm stood up and her breath became white. A few seconds later a white gas gushed over her body.

Wheelchair Wars Audrey 3 (iv)

Three people inside illuminated futuristic cryogenic pods emitting mist in a sci-fi chamber

The bridge was small and difficult to drive the battle chair around. A man with long grey hair was standing in front of the viewport.

“Are you the captain?” Audrey enquired, her voice echoing around the deck.

He tuned around, adorned with deep lines across his forehead and crow’s feet. in a shabby, torn blue uniform. “Yes, I am. My name is Carthage. Sorry that the bridge is so cramped. Not very accessible. It’s not a priority where this ship is from.

Audrey shuddered. “Is there anything I need to know about it?”

He rested his hand on the captain’s seat for support. “It’s more of the shock when you come back, We will be travelling close to light speed. While you are in stasis much time will pass.”

Audrey swallowed. “I know. All in service to the Emperor.”

Carthage then continued. “Well then, you should go to your pod. When I next see you, we should have arrived.”

Audrey turned and went to the back of the ship where her pod was waiting for her. It was in the center, with row after row of other pods surrounding it.

“Enter your hibernation pods,” she bellowed.

Brona went to leave before Audrey hushed, “Not you.”

Wheelchair Wars 3 (iii)

Military officer in wheelchair inspecting lined-up armored soldiers in futuristic space station

“We have been given a mission of the utmost importance by our most beloved Emperor. At all times, your total obedience and loyalty are expected.”

With that, she watched her troops, a mixture of stern-faced men and women, walk up the long ramp to the ship.

A sound of feet clattering. Audrey turned to see one of her troops running towards her.

A young woman with long, blonde hair and piercing blue eyes spoke. She was trembling. “I’m so sorry for being late. There is no excuse.”

I should really punish her. Set a good example for the others.

Audrey looked behind her. All the other troops are inside.

However, I could use an assistant. And she does look good.

“What is your name, trooper?” Audrey asks in a softer tone.

“Brona,” she replies, standing upright.

“Well, Brona, as punishment, you will be my personal assistant for the mission.”

Bron’s eyes flicker towards her and then away. “Okay, as you wish.”

“Walk behind me at all times. Speak only when spoken to. Now come along.”

Audrey pushed her joystick forward, and they made their way up the rampway into the ship. Inside, the troopers were already readying their hibernation pods.

Audrey headed to the bridge to talk to the captain.

Wheelchair Wars Audrey 3 (ii)

Rocket lifting off from a launch pad with fiery exhaust and city buildings in the background at sunset

“Your destination is over eight light-years away. It is a planet of ice and fire. Make sure to bring plenty of warm clothes. We lose heat quickly compared to the walkers. The ship Empericus 546 is awaiting you, along with over two hundred troops at your direct command.”

He turned his wheelchair around to face her.

“You will be travelling at light speed. I will have aged greatly by your return, if I am alive at all. Know that this is an important mission for the Empire.”

She replied, her voice cracking, “I will do as the Emperor commands.”

“Then, that is all, Audrey. Report to port 46Y2 in under an hour.”

Tears welled in Audrey’s eyes as she drove her chair away from Oreus’ room.

I know that I must serve the Emperor, but I thought that at least I would have Timothy by my side. I may never even see him again.

She stopped and wiped away the tears. There was much for her to do and little time.

Over fifty minutes later, she was addressing her troops, who donned white uniforms and were armed with light machine guns as they prepared to board the Empericus 546 or what they would simply call the Empericus, while on mission.

Distant Love (Part 71)

Couple embracing inside cozy cabin with rainy window showing spaceship outside

Derek puts his hand through Maeve’s hair. “You feel so good. I love your beautiful eyes.”

She leans down kisses him again. “You too, and such lovely thick eyebrows.”

He places his hand on her right breast.

She squirms and takes it away. “I’m sorry, love. Can we take our time.”

He smiles. “Of course, when we’re both ready. There is no need to rush. You are worth waiting for.”

She kissed his forehead. “Thanks, for being so understanding. Now come on, I’m starving, and my aunts makes such great breakfast.”

Derek smirks. “No need to tell me that. Talk about sausages to die for.”

With that, they both laugh head out of the ship and back to the house over the gravel surface. The sky begins to darken.

“Now Derek, no need to get despondent over the threat of rain. It happens way too often for that sort of thing.”

He stops the chair and smiles. “You have a point in fairness.”

The first drops begin to fall. Then more, before a downpour. Derek is soaked on his return. Maeve’s auntie holds her hand to her mouth on seeing him.

He shakes his head and drops of water fall off either side of his head.

Wheelchair Wars Audrey 3 (i)

Dark courtroom with judge's bench and large eagle emblem, people seated along sides

The door automatically opened and Audrey entered. It was Oreus’ personal quarters in the Fianna compound. Her eyes bulged at the luxurious large quarters and all the screens. Her presence had been requested over an hour ago, the reason undisclosed.

He was in the center of the room waiting for her, his face unreadable. “Thank you, for your attendance, Audrey.”

Audrey halted her chair about a meter away from him. “What do I owe the pleasure?”

Oreus grinned. “The pleasure is all mine. You did the Fianna proud, and now after facing the menace of Chaos, a good servant of the Emperor.”

Her eyebrows raised. “So, why have I been summoned?”

He continued. “You have been summoned because we have a new mission for you. Wheelchair Wars has exploded in popularity. You are now something of an icon. But remember, fealty to the Emperor is all that matters.”

Turning away, he went to the large window. Below, fighters were training. “An important relic from the Sisters of Vengeance has gone missing. You are to set off to Ciesta 9 and retrieve it, whatever the cost, immediately. You may take a platoon of the Emperor’s troops.

“What about Timothy?” Audrey blurted out.

“The Governor will be speaking to him shortly. The Emperor has a different vision for him”

Distant Love (Part 70)

Couple sitting in a cozy room holding hands and looking out a large window at a galaxy of stars and nebulae.

He goes straight to the control panel. “Ship, turn on communications and enter code Alpha, Three, Six, Nine, Two Beta.”

Diane would want an update. His heart sinks at the thought of having to speak to her.

He shudders as he hears her voice.

“About time Derek, I’d ask where your gone to, only the ship has a tracker. What a strange place they have brought you to! Any updates so far?”

Derek’s face turns crimson. “Nothing, so far. You’ll be the first to know. I’m really only checking in.”

“Fine! Report back when you know more. Over and out.”

The line went dead. Derek let out a big breath.

He thinks he hears someone.

“Somebody there?”

Maeve appears. Her eyebrows point inwards. “I was just checking up on the ship. I thought I heard talking.”

Derek turns to face her. “Ah, that was me, probably. A bit habit, talking to myself.”

They both laugh.

He continued, “Come on let’s go back to the house. Everything is fine here. You must be dying for something to eat.”

She smiled. “I sure am. But we have a few minutes.” She leaned down and kissed him.

He kissed her back. “Yes, we can wait a few mins. What’s the rush?”

Oreus 2 (iv)

Soldiers in combat-ready wheelchairs strategizing around a holographic table in a wasteland bunker.

A pause as if for effect.

“The people must be distracted.” He took a moment for another breath. “We need something big that will take people’s mind off other concerns. It needs to be something novel that catches the imagination.”

Roisin spoke up. “Maybe a fight to the death between all the teams?”

Brigid let off a little laugh. “That won’t generate the kind of interest that he is looking for. It’s been done to death, pardon the pun.

O Murchu then spoke, “Maybe a team battling a creature or something.”

Brigid tapped the table. “I’ve got it! As we all know, the Fianna are the in team at the moment.”

Oreus’ jaw clenched. What is she going to say?

“How about say a battle between the Fianna and say, a Gargantuan”

Gasps went up around the room.

Oreus’ heart sank. “That would be preposterous. They wouldn’t stand a chance.”

The room erupted in chatter.

“Quiet!” shouted the Governor. The room went quiet. “This is the kind of idea I was talking about. I like it. And if any of the Fianna survive, then they will have earned their place serving the Emperor. I can see it now, an epic battle that will be shown not only in this system but throughout the quadrant.”