Orwell’s Totalitarian Government in 1984 Essay -- Literary Analysis

George Orwells key accusive throughout his novel, 1984, was to convey to his readers the imminent threat of the severe danger that totalitarianism could mean for the world. Orwell takes prominent measures to display the horrifying effects that come along with issue and dominant control that actually comes along with totalitarian government. In Orwells novel, personal liberties and soulfulness freedoms that are protected and granted to legion(predicate) Americans today, are interpreted away and ripped from the citizens lives. The government takes away freedom and rights from the lot so that the ruling section (which makes up the government), while reign with complete supremacy and occupy all power. George Orwell declared himself as a Socialist, and he was a strong believer that people desperately need to maintain a sense of willingness to heighten against the government, in case there is ever need for it (rebellion). Orwell did not fear rebelling and taking a stand for what h e believed in. This is evident especially because Orwell wrote this famous novel, that is immediately classified around the world as must-read literature, to bring awareness to the world, and the potential oppression that could eventually form if things continued in the way they were currently acquittance at the time.Orwell lived in a time when communism was a very clear and hold danger that was beginning to be enforced in many parts of the world. During this time, it was believed by many that the central ideas presented by a communist government were ideal for all of society. However, Orwell knew differently. Orwell was able to envision how a seemingly peremptory communist government would most definitely come along with the removal of liberties, freedoms, and rights of the people. Or... ...ally become of a world where leaders forced their communist ideas and rules upon all people, and Orwell was merry enough to point out what was inevitable to happen.Works Cited1. The Poli tical Ideas of George Orwell The Socialist Party of considerable Britain. World Socialist Movement. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 May 2012. .2. Orwell, George. 1984, a novel. bare-assed York New American Library, 1949. Print.3. Arno, The. Oscar Wilde - Biography and Works. Search Texts, Read Online. Discuss.. The Literature Network Online classic literature, poems, and quotes. Essays & Summaries. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 May 2012. .4. Fuchs, Thomas. A concise biography of Adolf Hitler. Berkley ed. New York Berkley Books, 2000. Print. Orwells Totalitarian Government in 1984 Essay -- Literary AnalysisGeorge Orwells key objective throughout his novel, 1984, was to convey to his readers the imminent threat of the severe danger that totalitarianism could mean for the world. Orwell takes great measures to display the horrifying effects that come along with complete and dominant control that actually comes along with totalitarian government. In Orwells novel, personal liberties and indiv idual freedoms that are protected and granted to many Americans today, are taken away and ripped from the citizens lives. The government takes away freedom and rights from the people so that the ruling class (which makes up the government), while reign with complete supremacy and possess all power. George Orwell declared himself as a Socialist, and he was a strong believer that people desperately need to maintain a sense of willingness to rebel against the government, in case there is ever need for it (rebellion). Orwell did not fear rebelling and taking a stand for what he believed in. This is evident especially because Orwell wrote this famous novel, that is now classified around the world as must-read literature, to bring awareness to the world, and the potential oppression that could eventually form if things continued in the way they were currently going at the time.Orwell lived in a time when communism was a very clear and present danger that was beginning to be enforced in ma ny parts of the world. During this time, it was believed by many that the central ideas presented by a communist government were ideal for all of society. However, Orwell knew differently. Orwell was able to envision how a seemingly supreme communist government would most definitely come along with the removal of liberties, freedoms, and rights of the people. Or... ...ally become of a world where leaders forced their communist ideas and rules upon all people, and Orwell was brave enough to point out what was inevitable to happen.Works Cited1. The Political Ideas of George Orwell The Socialist Party of Great Britain. World Socialist Movement. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 May 2012. .2. Orwell, George. 1984, a novel. New York New American Library, 1949. Print.3. Arno, The. Oscar Wilde - Biography and Works. Search Texts, Read Online. Discuss.. The Literature Network Online classic literature, poems, and quotes. Essays & Summaries. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 May 2012. .4. Fuchs, Thomas. A concise biogr aphy of Adolf Hitler. Berkley ed. New York Berkley Books, 2000. Print.

Comparing Grendel and Oedipus Rex :: Comparison Compare Contrast Essays

Parallels between Grendel and Oedipus Rex A messenger hurriedly arrives at a palace to itemise king Oedipus, that his father, Polybus, the king of another town, has died at an old age of natural causes. The messages receptor and his queen, therefore, assume that Oedipus has escaped his fate as told by the oracle at Delphi that he should murder his father and marry his mother. There is reprieve of worry until it is revealed that the man who died was merely Oedipus adoptive father and that Oedipus had indeed once killed his father and was unite to his mother. Oedipus was not the king of his fate. Pointless accident, not pattern, governs the world, says Grendel, who, as a consequence, adopts an existentialistic stance, explains Frank Magill in Critical Review of Short Fiction. This point has been expressed in numerous sarcastic papers by various essayists. One may wonder, how of all time, whether this is the only way to interpret an incredibly ambiguous story in which no question is ever clearly answered nor clearly formulated. One may wonder, actually, whether the author meant for his work to be analyzed in this way at all. The author, John Gardner, spins a tale of a monster held viscously to his destiny of an unnatural death. No matter what Grendel does, his death is predetermined. Though he tries to disprove fate to himself by believing in existentialism, the belief that actions wee the future, he never validates that point of view. John Gardners purpose in writing Grendel was to express that the future is completely unavoidable. Grendel may be paralleled to Sophocles Oedipus Rex which describes the story of Laius and Jocasta, the king and a queen of Thebes, who are told by the oracle at Delphi that the fate of their newborn son is to someday kill his father and marry his mother. They call up that they can diversify that destiny by killing the child but their plan backfires when, unannounced to them, the child grows up far away and fulfills his destin y by eventually murdering Laius and marrying Jocasta, incomplete of whom he knows is his parent. Oedipus Rex is analogous to Grendel because in both stories the main character has a fate which is exceptionally clear but he simply does not believe it, quite on the contrary, he believes that his actions will create his future, but he is tragically mistaken.

Essay on Animal Imagery in A Dolls House -- Dolls House essays

living creature Imagery in A Dolls House Animal imagery in Henrick Ibsens play, A Dolls House is a critical part of the character development of Nora, the protagonist. Ibsen uses creative, but effective, animal imagery to develop Noras character passim the play. He has Torvald call his wife his brusque lark(Isben) or sulky squirrel(Isben) or other animal names throughout the play. He uses a push-down store of bird imagery-calling her many different bird names. The name Torvald uses directly relates to how he feels about her at the time. The animals Ibsen chooses to use are related to how Nora is acting, or how she needs to be portrayed. For display case Not even a dozen lines into Act I, Torvald asks (referring to Nora), Is that my little lark twittering out there(Isben) and Is that my squirrel rummaging around?(Isben) A lark is a songbird a happy, carefree bird. It is can also be used as a verb that means to engage in spirited fun or merry pranks. A squirrel is quite the opp osite it is a small, furry rodent. If you are to squirrel away something, you were hiding or storing it, kind of like what Nora was doing with her bag of macaroons. Torvald calls her these names to fit the situation. Nora was definitely a care free woman, just like a lark, and Torvald refers to her as such my little lark(Isben). When he says that, Nora is moving around the room and humming with a carefree spirit that would characterize a lark. Whenever she has this spirit, Torvald refers to her as his little lark.(Isben) On the other hand, Nora must be some sort of scrounge, because Torvald also refers to her as his little squirrel.(Isben) He asks if that is my squirrel rummaging around(Isben). It seems that maybe Ibsen was usi... ...al in the character development for both characters, showing really how both sides perceive the other. Works Cited and Consulted Baruch, Elaine Hoffman. Ibsens Doll House A Myth for Our Time. The Yale Review 69 (1980) 374-387. Durbach, Errol. A Dol ls House Ibsens Myth of Transformation. Boston Twayne, 1991. Ibsen, Henrick. A Doll House. The Bedford Introduction to Literature Reading, Thinking, Writing. 5th ed. Ed. Michael Meyer. Boston Bedford/St. Martins, 1999. 1564-1612. Northram, John. Ibsens Search for the Hero. Ibsen A Collection of Critical Essays. Ed. Rolf Fjelde. Englewood Cliffs, NJ Prentice-Hall, 1965. 107-113. Salom, Lou. Ibsens Heroines. Ed. and trans. Siegfried Mandel. Redding Ridge Black Swan, 1985. Templeton, Joan. The Doll House Backlash Criticism, Feminism, and Ibsen. PMLA 104.1(1989) 28-40.

Discuss the similarities and differences between ?new terrorism? and th

Pantha rei as it was stated by the Greek philosopher, Heraclites of Ephesus (sixth and fifth centuries B.C.) everything flows, everything changes. Change in the contemporary world is an extremely fast process. zero remains the same as it was in the past. In semipolitical science especially, some notions (e.g. sovereignty) demand redefinition. The changing nature of all things also includes the political idea of terrorism. The official approach to this changing terrorism is rather complicated. The terrorist of yesterday is the hero of today, and the hero of yesterday becomes the terrorist of today . There is then a great imply to know what contemporary terrorism is and what it is not. Terrorism is a calculated use of power to achieve a political change, thus violence or evenly important, the threat of violence is used and directed in pursuit of, or in service of a political aim . Terrorism is an expression of political strategy, a forgetful choice made by an organization fo r political and strategic reasons (efficacy) rather than as the unintended outcome of psychological or sociable factors . However, terrorism is difficult to define because the meaning of the term has changed so frequently over the past 200 years. It has morphed from positive connotation during the French Revolution (closely associated with the ideals of faithfulness and democracy ), through the revolutionary movement and finally to a religiously motivated act as it is mainly perceived today. Nevertheless, we have to ask ourselves whether emeritus and refreshful terrorism really exists, or maybe the phenomenon we are facing today reminds us an old wine in a new bottle.deuce questions frame the discussed issue 1.What is the nature of new terrorism?2.What is the magnitude of threat of new terrorism?Old and new terrorism are distinguishable in five points, as the table below shows .Old TerrorismNew TerrorismIdeologicalVague or religious motivationsHierarchicalUnorganized (lone wolf, ad hoc) therefore more than difficult to penetratePropaganda by deed (bringing issue to the table)More violent (killing for the sake of killing)Sub-nationalTransnational and International (global... ...uld be considered more dangerous. The new rules of an old game make it more lethal and unpredictable. Let us examine only one example Nearly every terrorist group in Iraq has recently captured a foreigner but additionally, they have produced an accompanying video, where a list of demands is outlined, a deadline is set, hostages plea for their lives, and in several instances, they are killed by beheading. because these kidnappings merge a technique of old terrorism in service of new style terrorism. Furthermore, now more than ever, the media are a tool of war. These dramas were broadcasted by the media all over the world. This is how the media helps to evolve terrorism they send the terrorist a clear although unspoken message to maintain access to the airwaves, you need to devise e ven more outrageous tactics. Thus, the new global terrorist, caught into the trap of globalization, will have to break more rules, cross more psychological b rewrites, and crack more taboos in order to exist. This can be considered the most dangerous feature of the new terrorism not only do we not know when the next attack will strike, we either have no idea what actually is going to happen .

Consequences And Remedies Of Din In The Scarlet Letter :: essays research papers

The Scarlet Letter shows many types of offend. Some is only sin in the Puritan eye, some is internally blamed sin and some is sin only defined back in the time period of pre-Romanticism. Three main characters Hester Prynne, Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, and Roger Chillingworth are the sinners of the Nathaniel Hawthornes The Scarlet Letter. Nathaniel Hawthorn gives severally one very different a consequence and remedy for each ones sin. Hester is publicly punish right away, Dimmesdale has to dwell on his sin for years and Chillingworth is punished abruptly when his sin comes to an end. Each punishment is different and holds its own lesson.Hester was forced into the marriage of a man she did not love, and after being separated for a long amount of time, she became attracted to another man. She then falls into a spell of passion with Reverend Dimmesdale. She then becomes pregnant with Dimmesdales baby, obviously revealing her sin. She is sent to the support to be mocked by all and is forced to reveal the father of the child. She refuses and then for her sins, received a scarlet letter, "A" which she had to wear upon her chest for the rest of her livelihood in Boston. She wondered the streets and was given bitter looks from all. This was the Puritan way of punishing her for her then criminal action of adultery. The Scarlet Letter on her bosom does the exact diametrical of that which it was meant for. Eventually, Hester upsets all the odds against here due to her courage, pride and effort. Hester goes beyond the letter of the law and does everything asked of her in order to prove that she is "able"(158).Hester, even though she was to a greater extent appreciated by the Puritans, she still was not respected and her life was never the same. This eventually caused so much mental and physical anguish that she eventually questioned wherefore she should live if it werent for her Pearl. Pearl was a bundle of life sent from god to remind her of her wron g doing each and every moment and as a move sermon to preach against sin for others. The symbolic Pearl helped Hester overcome her guilt. Hester becomes a highly respected person in a Puritan society by overcoming one of the harshest punishments, the scarlet letter. After Dimmesdales passing away, she remains in the small Boston town as payment of her sin and more importantly as an example to other future women of the town.

Consequences And Remedies Of Din In The Scarlet Letter :: essays research papers

The Scarlet Letter shows many types of sin. Some is only sin in the Puritan eye, some is internally doomed sin and some is sin only defined back in the time period of pre-Romanticism. Three main characters Hester Prynne, Reverend Arthur Dimmesdale, and Roger Chillingworth are the sinners of the Nathaniel hawes The Scarlet Letter. Nathaniel Hawthorn gives each one very different a consequence and remedy for each ones sin. Hester is publicly punished right away, Dimmesdale has to dwell on his sin for age and Chillingworth is punished abruptly when his sin comes to an end. Each punishment is different and holds its own lesson.Hester was forced into the marriage of a man she did not love, and after being separate for a long amount of time, she became attracted to another man. She then falls into a spell of passion with Reverend Dimmesdale. She then becomes pregnant with Dimmesdales baby, obviously revealing her sin. She is send to the Scaffold to be mocked by all and is forced to re veal the father of the child. She refuses and then for her sins, received a scarlet letter, "A" which she had to wear upon her chest for the bear of her life in Boston. She wondered the streets and was given bitter looks from all. This was the Puritan way of punishing her for her then criminal action of adultery. The Scarlet Letter on her bosom does the hire opposite of that which it was meant for. Eventually, Hester upsets all the odds against here due to her courage, pride and effort. Hester goes beyond the letter of the law and does everything asked of her in order to prove that she is "able"(158).Hester, even though she was more appreciated by the Puritans, she still was not respected and her life was never the same. This in conclusion caused so much mental and physical anguish that she eventually questioned why she should live if it werent for her Pearl. Pearl was a bundle of life sent from god to remind her of her wrong doing each and every moment and as a w alking sermon to preach against sin for others. The symbolic Pearl helped Hester overcome her guilt. Hester becomes a highly respected person in a Puritan order of magnitude by overcoming one of the harshest punishments, the scarlet letter. After Dimmesdales passing away, she remains in the small Boston town as payment of her sin and more importantly as an example to other future women of the town.

Consequences of Postmodernism in the Movie

How the mental picture the Statesn psychotic cogitates to the post modern society of America in the 80 IIS Postmodernism was first tick offn in the late nineteenth century, only when after the second world war it was applied to peoples everyday lifetime. American Psycho portraits the reality and consequences of postmodernism through with(predicate) the mysterious life of Patrick Bateman as the American Psycho. Patrick Bateman is the main character of the movie, and the whole world is visualizen through his eyes. The moral in the movie is that there are no morals, it is whizz big twisted game fighting for status.Patriots life comes focused on this goal through worshipping the surface through capitalistic, consumerist and narcissistic behavior. The Business card scene definitely displays that Patrick Bateman perceives the world as post modernistic. Nothing has meaning to it in Patriots mind, as ideologies, goodness and love. What Bateman can relate to are the conservative asp ects for example the business cards where it meaner everything to him to have the best card which is only an illusion of himself.Bateman and the phenomenon, postmodernism are the sentiment that nothing is real righteous an illusion and that everything is a copy of something thats already been duplicated. This movie has many different ways to look at it. Many have regardn this movie and thought whether this is any real or if its Just his crazy twisted mind, making it all up. One thing we can agree on is the fact that Patrick Bateman is a mentally disturbed person. Maybe all this violence and blood displayed in this movie, are the feelings of the author towards the post modernistic society that we have and do live in, this is him screening his hatred towards it.This is why it is irrelevant whether it is real or not, t is this feeling the author has towards this twisted society that you must understand and to feel it you must see it in action. When societies redefine, the people a lso redefine this is the process we see in Batsmans life. He is always thriving to redefine himself both through his physical personify and through his materialistic belongings. This thriving for the idealistic image is the meaning of life for Patrick Bateman, all of his actions and thought are focused on redefining himself compared to the redefining society. Survival becomes a separate point in this society.Bateman is seek to survive in his sick society. By surviving it meaner to keep up with all the materialistic ideologies of the perfect being. His survival for this we see when he does his regular morning exercise followed by a skin mask to the battle of business cards. One of postmodernists big aspects is the value given to the materialistic aspects of society, everything has lost its soul even people are described almost as if they were products. People are no longer Judged by their true selves but through what clothes they wear, what perfume they use and how much money they own.An example from he movie is the big importance of which restaurant to eat at. It is not whether the feed is good, it is what image it represents to the surrounding people. Patrick Bateman is trying to sell himself all the time. He does this Just like you would advertise a store of coca-cola. He wants the surrounding people to consociate him with the best restaurant, business card and even the look of his girlfriend. This is exactly how coca-cola tries to sell us this idea of happiness and fairytale world when you open a bottle of coca-cola, this they do through advertisements as we see it with Bateman, who becomes a product.Creating this image of yourself is pure postmodernism. The movie shows this to us in such a clear way though Patrick Bateman description of himself. have all the characteristics of a human being blood, flesh, skin, hair but not a single, clear, identifiable emotion, except for greed and disgust. and there is an idea of a Patrick Bateman some kind of abs traction. But there is no real me only an entity, something illusory. And though I can hide my cold gaze, and you can shiver my hand and feel flesh gripping yours and maybe you can even sense our lifestyles are probably comparableI simply am not there. To understand this you must understand that the soul is your true being. Through postmodernism the soul dies due to always having to manipulate and create this illusory image of one self, but by doing this the soul is getting buried so deep beneath this image, that it is almost non-existing. The whole point of a post modernistic life is trying to create this perfect picture of yourself, instead of finding your true self by removing all mindsets and ideologies given to you by this manipulative society trying to give you ideologies, norms and rules that bury our soul.This movie is showing postmodernism at its finest. All values, ideologies and norms have vanished and now they are meaningless. In the end the only thing you can actually reflect on is one self. Bateman is wandering around a materialistic yuppie society, where people are so concerned and busy with their outer, status and themselves, that they dont see how gruesome and crazy Bateman really is. All the violence in itself is not that important for the meaning of the movie. What really is trying to be shown in this movie is this violate towards the post modernistic society and how it can affect you.

Stefan’s Diaries: Origins Chapter 17

September 8, 1864She is not who she impinge onms. Should I be surprised? Terrified? Hurt? Its as if everything I drive in, everything Ive been taught, everything Ive believed in my departed seventeen old age is wrong.I abide still feel where she kissed me, where her fingers grasped my hands. I still yearn for her, and yet the voice of reason is screaming in my ears You cannot get laid a vampireIf I had one of her daisies, I could pluck the leaves and let the flower choose for me. I love her I love her not I I love her.I do. No matter the consequences.Is this what following your heart is? I wish there was a map or a compass to help me finger my way. But she has my heart, and that above in all in all else is my North Star and that go out have to be enough. later on I slipped away from the carriage house abide to my witness chambers, I somehow sliceaged to sleep for a few hours. When I awoke, I wondered if everything was all a dream. But then I shifted my head on the r eside and saw a neat puddle of dried, crimson beginning and touched my fingers to my throat. I matte up a wound there, and though it didnt hurt, it brought back the very substantial incidents of the previous evening.I felt exhausted and confused and exalted all at once. My limbs were enervated, my brain abuzz. It was as if I had a fever, scarcely inside I felt a sort of calm Id never felt originally.I dressed for the day, taking extra care to wash the wound with a tame cloth and bandage it, then exactlytoned my linen shirt as high as it would go. I glanced at my reflection in the mirror. I tested to see if there was anything different, if there was some glint in my eye that ac experienced my newfound worldliness. But my face looked just as it had yesterday.I crept blue the back stairs toward the study. sticks schedule was like clockwork, and he always spent the mornings surveying and visiting the fields with Robert.Once I closed myself in the cool, moody room, I ran my fin gers along the strap-bound spines on each shelf, feeling comforted by their silver-tonguedness. I just hoped that somewhere, in the stacks and shelves of books on every subject, there would be a volume that would answer some of my questions. I remembered Katherine reading The Mysteries of Mystic Falls and noticed the volume was no longer in the study, or at least not in plain view.I walked aimlessly from shelf to shelf, for the first time feeling overwhelmed by the number of books in bring forths study. Where could I perhaps find study on vampires? Father had volumes of plays, fiction, atlases, and two full shelves of Bibles, some in English, some in Italian, and some in Latin. I traced my hands against the gilt- lettered, leather spines of each book, hoping that somehow Id find something.Finally, my fingertips res publicaed on a thin, tattered volume with Demonios written in flaking silver on the spine. Demonio demon This was what I was looking for for. I opened the book, but it was written in an ancient Italian dialect that I couldnt make heads nor tails of, despite my extensive tutoring in Latin and Italian.Still, I carried the book with me to the club chair and settled in. Trying to decipher the book was an action I could understand, something easier than trying to eat breakfast slice dissemble everything was normal. I ran my fingers along the intelligence activitys, reading come to the fore loud as if I were a schoolboy, making certain(a) I didnt miss a mention of the word vampiro. Finally, I found it, but the sentences surrounding it were nothing but gibberish to me. I sighed in frustration.Just then, the admittance to the study creaked open.Whos there? I called loudly.Stefan My fathers healthy face registered surprise. I was looking for you.Oh? I asked, my hand flying to my neck, as if Father could see the bandage beneath the fabric. But all I felt was the smooth linen of my shirt. My secret was safe.Father looked at me strangely. He w alked toward me, taking the book off my lap. Y and Iou study alike, he said, a strange smile curving onto his face.We do? My heart fluttered in my chest like a hummingbirds wings, and I was indisputable Father could hear my breath catching in short, shallow gasps in my throat. I felt sure he could read my thoughts, sure he knew ab verboten Katherine and me. And if he knew about Katherine, hed kill her and I couldnt redeem to think of the rest.Father smiled again. We do. I cut you took our conversation about vampires to heart, and I appreciate you taking this scourge seriously. Of course, I know you have your own motivations in avenging the death of your young Rosalyn, Father said, making the sign of the cross over his chest. I stared at a thin spot on the Oriental rug, where the fabric was so faded, I could see the stained wooden floor below. I couldnt look up at Father and let my face range my secret, betray Katherines secret.Be assured, son, that Rosalyn did not die in vain. She died for Mystic Falls, and she will be remembered as we rid our town of this curse. And you, of course, will be an integral part of the plan. Father gestured toward the book I still held. Unlike your life-threatening-for-nothing brother. What good is all his new military knowledge if he cant put it to use to defend his family, his land? Father asked rhetorically. Just today he went off on a ride with some of his soldier friends. Even after I told him I anticipate him here this morning to accompany us to our meeting at Jonathans house.But I wasnt paying attention anymore. All I cared about was that he didnt know about Katherine. My breathing slowed. There wasnt very much information that I could understand in this book. I dont think its very useful, I said, as if all Id been doing this morning was indulging in a scholarly interest in vampires.Thats just as well, Father said dismissively, as he carelessly laid the book back on the shelf. I feel that together we have a good stor e of knowledge.Together? I parroted.Father waved his hand impatiently. Y and Iou Father waved his hand impatiently. Y and Iou and the Founders. Weve set up a council to deal with this. Were heading to a meeting duty now. Y oure coming.I am? I asked.Father glanced at me in annoyance. I knew I sounded like a simpleton, but there was simply too much information swimming in my mind to even begin to understand it all.Y And Im taking Cordelia as well. She hases. a good knowledge of herbs and demons. The meeting is at Jonathan Gilberts house. Father nodded, as if the subject was closed.I nodded as well, even though I was surprised. Jonathan Gilbert was a university teacher and sometimes inventor who Father not so privately called a crackpot. But now Father said his name with reverence. For the thousandth time that day, I realized this truly was a different world.Alfred is hitching up the carriage, but I will drive it. Do not tell anyone where were going. Ive already sworn Cordelia to secr ecy, Father said as he strode out of the room. After a second, I followed him, but not before I slipped Demonios into my back pocket.I sat side by side(p) to Father in the front seat of the carriage, while Cordelia sat in the back, hidden from sight lest she arouse suspicion. It was strange to be out in the morning, especially without a footman to drive us, and I caught the curious stares of Mr. Vickery as we passed by the Blue Ridge Estate next door. I waved, until I felt Fathers hand on my arm, a subtle warning not to attract attention to ourselves.Father began talking once we entered the barren stretch of dirt road that separated the plantation road from town. I dont understand your brother. Do you? What man doesnt respect his father? If I didnt know better, Id think he was consorting with one of them, Father said, spitting on the dirt road.Why would you think that? I asked uncomfortably, a trickle of sweat running down my spine. I ran my finger beneath my collar, recoiling when I felt the gauze bandage of my neck. It was damp, but from sweat or blood I could not tell.My thoughts were a tangle. Was I betraying Katherine by attending this meeting? Was I betraying Father by keeping Katherines secret? Who was evil or good? Nothing seemed clear.I think that because they have that kind of power, Father said, using the whip on Blaze as if to prove the point. Blaze whinnied before shifty into a fast trot.I looked back at Cordelia, but she was impassively staring straight ahead.They can take over a mind before a man realizes anything is amiss. They compel them to submit fully to their charms and whims. Just a glance can make a man do whatever a vampire desires. And by the time a man does know hes being controlled, its too late.Really? I asked skeptically. I thought back to last night. Had Katherine make that to me? But no. Even when I was frightened, Id been myself. And all my feelings had been mine. Maybe vampires could do that, but Katherine certainly hadnt do ne it to me.Father chuckled. Well, not all the time. One hopes that a man is strong enough to withstand that type of influence. And I certainly have raised my sons to be strong. Still, I wonder what could possibly have gotten into Damons head.Im sure hes fine, I said, suddenly very nervous at the idea that Damon might have figured out Katherines secret. I think hes simply not sure what he wants.I dont care what he wants, Father said. What he needs to remember is that hes my son and I will not be disobeyed. These are mordacious times, much more so than Damon realizes. And he needs to understand that if he is not with us, people might construe that his sympathies lie elsewhere.I think he just doesnt believe in vampires, I said, a sick feeling forming in the pit of my stomach.Shhh Father whispered, waving his hand toward me to quiet me down. The horses were clip-clopping into town, just past the saloon, where Jeremiah Black was already nearly passed out by the door, a half bottle of w hiskey at his feet.Somehow, I didnt think Jeremiah Black was listening or even seeing what was going on, but I nodded, pleased that the silence gave me a chance to sort through my thoughts.I glanced over to my right, where Pearl and her girl were sitting on the iron bench outside the apothecary, fanning themselves. I waved to them, but, seeing Fathers warning glance, thought better about calling out to say hello. I closed my mouth and sat silently until we reached the other end of town, where Jonathan Gilbert lived in an ill-kept mansion that had once belonged to his father. Father often made fun of the situation that the house was falling apart, but today he said nothing as Alfred opened the door of the carriage.Cordelia, Father called tersely, allowing her to walk up the rickety step of the Gilbert mansion first as we followed suit.Before we could ring the bell, Jonathan himself opened the door. Good to see you, Giuseppe, Stefan. And you must be Cordelia. Ive heard much about y our knowledge of native herbs, he said, offering his hand to her.Jonathan led us through the labyrinthine hallways and toward a tiny door next to the grand staircase. Jonathan opened it and gestured for us to head inside. We took turns ducking down to enter a tunnel that was about ten feet long, with a flimsy be given at the other end. Wordlessly we climbed the ladder and emerged into a tiny, windowless space that immediately made me feel claustrophobic. Two candles burned in tarnished candleholders on a water-stained table, and as my eyes adjusted to the dim light, I could make out Honoria Fells sitting gingerly on a rocker in the corner. Mayor Lockwood and Sheriff Forbes shared an old wooden bench.Gentlemen, Honoria said, standing up and accept us as if we were just stopping in for tea. And Im afraid I havent made your acquaintance, Mrs. Honoria glanced suspiciously at Cordelia.Cordelia, Cordelia murmured, glancing from one face to another, as if this was the last settle she wa nted to be.My father coughed uncomfortably. She treated Stefan during his spells after his After his fiance got her throat ripped out? Mayor Lockwood said gruffly.Mayor Honoria said, clapping her hand to her mouth.As Jonathan ducked back out into the hall, I settled on a straight-backed chair as far away from the group as possible. I felt out of place, though probably not as out of place as Cordelia, who was now awkwardly sitting on a wooden chair next to Honorias rocker.Now, then Jonathan Gilbert said, coming back to the room, his arms laden with tools and papers and objects I couldnt even begin to identify. He sat on a inhuman velvet armchair at the head of the table and looked around. Lets begin.Fire, Father said simply.A shiver of fear ran up my spine. Fire was how Katherines parents had perished. Was that because they were vampires, too? Had Katherine been the only one to carry?Fire? Mayor Lockwood repeated.Its been recorded, many times in Italy, that fire kills them, as does beheading or a stake in the heart. And, of course, there are herbs that can protect us. Father nodded to Cordelia.Vervain, Cordelia confirmed.Vervain, Honoria said dreamily. How pretty.Cordelia snorted. It aint nothing but a herb. But if you wear it, then you have protection from the devil. Some say it can withal work a bit to nurse those whove been around them back to health. But its poison to them devils you call vampires.I want some Honoria said greedily, holding out her hand eagerly.I dont have any with me, Cordelia said.Y dont? Father looked at her sharply.ou Its all gone from the garden. I used it for Mr. Stefans remedies then when I went to pick it this morning, it was all gone. Was probably the children who took it, Cordelia said indignantly, but she glanced straight at me. I looked away, reassuring myself that if she had known about Katherines true nature, she would have told my father by now.Well, then, where do I get some? Honoria asked.Its probably right under your nos e, Cordelia said.What? asked Honoria sharply, as if shed been insulted.It grows everywhere. Except our garden, Cordelia said darkly.Well, Father said, glancing at the two women, anxious to diffuse the situation. After this meeting, Cordelia may escort Miss Honoria to her garden to find vervain.Now, wait just a damn minute, Mayor Lockwood said, pounding his beefy fist on the table. Y muddled me at the woman talk. Y mean toou ou tell me that if I wear a lilac sprig, then the demons will leave me alone? He snorted.Vervain, not lilac, Cordelia explained. It keeps evil away.Y es, Father said sagely. And everyone in town must wear it. See to it, Mayor Lockwood. That way, not only will our citizens be protected, but anyone who does not wear it will be exposed as a vampire and can then be burned, Father said, his voice so smooth and matter-of-fact that it took every ounce of self-control for me not to stand up, rush down the shaky ladder, find Katherine, and run away with her.But if I di d that, and if Katherine was as dangerous as the Founders thought I felt like a trapped animal, unable to find any escape. Was I trapped with the enemy right now, or was the enemy back at Veritas? I knew that, beneath my shirt collar, the wound on my neck was beginning to ooze specks of blood, and it would only be a matter of time before they soaked through the fabric and stood out as a visible prompter of my betrayal.Mayor Lockwood shifted uneasily, causing the chair to creak. I jumped. Now, if the herb works, thats one thing. But were in the middle of a war. Weve got a lot of Confederate government officials passing through Mystic Falls on their way to Richmond, and if word gets out that instead of aiding the cause were fighting storybook creatures with flowers He shook his head. We cannot issue an edict that everyone wear vervain.Oh, really? Then how do we know youre not a vampire? Father demanded.Father I interjected. Someone had to bring a voice of reason into the discussion . Mayor Lockwood is right. We need to think calmly. Rationally.Y son has a good head on his shoulders,our Mayor Lockwood said grudgingly.A better head than yours, Father mumbled.Well we can discuss vervain later. Honoria, youll be in charge of making sure that we have a ready supply, and we can strongly encourage those we love to wear it. But for now, I want to discuss other ways we can find the vampires that walk among us, Jonathan Gilbert said excitedly, unfolding large sheets of paper onto the table. Mayor Lockwood put his bifocals on his nose and peered at the papers, which had complicated mechanical drawings on them.This here looks like a compass, Mayor Lockwood said finally, pointing to a complicated drawing.It is But instead of decision north, it finds vampires, Jonathan said, barely containing his excitement. Im working on the prototype. It just needs a bit more fine-tuning. Its able to detect blood. The blood of others, he said meaningfully.Can I see that, Mr. Jonathan? Co rdelia asked.Jonathan looked up, surprised, but handed her the papers. She shook her head.No, she said. The prototype. Oh, ah, well, its very rough, Jonathan said as he fumbled in his back pocket and pulled out a shiny metal object that looked more like a childs trinket than a tool for finding victims.Cordelia sullen the compass slowly in her hands. It works?Well Jonathan shruggedit will work.Heres what I propose, Father said, leaning back on his chair. We arm ourselves with vervain. We work day and night to get the compass to work. And we make a plan. We set up a siege, and by months end our town will be clear. Father crossed his arms in satisfaction. One by one, every member of the group, including Cordelia, nodded their heads.I shifted on the wooden chair, holding my hand against my neck. The attic was hot and sticky, and flies were buzzing in the rafters, as if it were the middle of July rather than the middle of September. I urgently needed a glass of water, and I felt like t he room was going to collapse in on me. I needed to see Katherine again, to remind myself that she wasnt a monster. My breathing became shallow, and I felt that if I stayed here, I would say something I didnt mean.I think Im feeling faint, I heard myself say, even though the words rang false even to my ears. Father looked at me sharply. I could tell he didnt believe me, but Honoria clucked out sympathetic noises.Father cleared his throat. Ill see my boy out, he announced to the room before following me down the rickety ladder.Stefan, Father said, grabbing my shoulder just as I opened the door that would lead back to a world I understood.What? I gasped.Remember. Not a word of this to anyone. Even Damon. Not until he comes to his senses. Except I think his senses may be taken with our Katherine, Father muttered, half to himself as he let go of my arm. I stiffened at the mention of Katherines name, but when I turned around, Fathers back was toward me as he headed into the house.I walke d back through town, wishing Id ridden Mezzanotte instead of coming in the carriage. Now I had no choice but to walk home. I turned to my left, deciding to cut through the forest. I simply couldnt interact with any more humans today.

Assess the Arguments in Favor of the Greater Use of Direct Democracy in the Uk Essay

Direct democracy is the purest form of democracy and it is when the people of the state are reignly consulted by the government on issues. The people themselves have the the choice and piece of ass influence the government. This can be achieved through referendums. One argument for the greater rehearse of control democracy is that is can increase genuineness as the government is getting direct consent from the people through such methods such as referendums.Another reason is that if the government is spit on an issue it can hold a referendum for the people to choose, so the people have a direct influence on government and such examples of this include the AV referendum, and the 1975 EU membership referendum. Direct democracy not only supports and strengthens positive membership further it also educates people about politics and major political issues.However there are arguments against the greater use if direct democracy is that some issues can be hard and too complex for some people to understand in politics and referendum such as changing the pounds to euros in GB , and so a overall result might not be valid. Also some people might be swayed with emotion and make emotional decisions quite of rational ones, for example pro and anti abortion situations. Also there might be a voters fatigue and there might be kickoff turnouts in elections and referendums and so it might lack legitimacy .For example there was a 34% turnout to whether London should have a mayor and this results lacked legitimacy as the majority did not get involved. In conclusion I believe that there should be an increase in the greater use of direct democracy in the UK because getting the consent of the people will not only increase political participation and educate the public but real decisions can be strengthened by the direct consent of the people.

Village Election and Corruption

Village election and Corruption in China Background (problem) In China,the election form refers to the election of deputies to the peoples congresses at various levels, which includes general local election and the election of deputies from the armed forces, in the special administrative regions. There atomic number 18 two kinds of election direct election and indirect election. 1. Direct election means voters directly elect deputies to the peoples congresses by casting their votes.Direct elections be applicable to the election of deputies to the peoples congresses of the counties, districts, townships and towns, which Chinas authoritarian(the leadinghip of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)) regime has allowed, encouraged, and required to be held at the village level,but non at higher(prenominal) levels. 2. Indirect election means deputies to the peoples congresses at the next higher level are take by deputies to the peoples congresses at the next lower level.Indirect elections are applicable to the election of deputies to peoples congresses above the county level and deputies among the armed forces at the same level and deputies to the NPC(National Peoples Congress) elected from special administrative regions. In this essay, I will focus on the direct election(village election). Since the problem of corruption in the village election is very honey oil in China,such as dealing-votes, treating to dinner to persuade by promising private goods and so on. Mainly comes from the following aspects 1. In a bittie electorate, campaigning is non an effective strategy to win an election.In contrast, vote debaseingcorruptioncan easily be an effective means to win an election with a small electorate. A Chinese village is small adequacy a community for each villager to know all the other villagers in person as they move with each other on a daily basis and voters may already know whether the vista has the intention and ability to provide public goods, which coul d frame the condition of perfect information, in other words,in a village election, voters and candidates know each other personally, and voters may easily acquire personal information approximately the candidates.Therefore, because under the conditions of perfect information, it is not costly for a candidate to seek office by treating a subset of the electorate to dinner or to give private goods to voters. On the other hand, it is relatively costly to attempt to sway voters by stating policy proposals that promise the provision of public goods for the whole electorate. 2.In China village elections, officials in the do of monitoring village elections do not rent a strong incentive to regulate the elections because implementation of fair village elections is not considered an important measurement for the evaluation of local officials by higher authorities (Edin 2003 OBrien and Li 1999 but Kennedy 2007). 3. the cost of penalization for the corrupt act of buy votes is low in th e case of Chinas village elections.Even with formal rules stipulating severe punishment, if people do not believe that cases of corruption are revealed and formal rules are enforced, the punishment will not be considered a cost of the illegal act and will not deter it (Tsebelis 1989). Therefore, it is not puzzling that candidates deal to buy votes by providing private goods in campaigns for Chinese village elections. Model setting The model describes the electoral competition between two candidates as a noncooperative simultaneous-move game.In the model, two candidates compete to win an election,and at equipoises, electoral competition would increase the probability of vote buying in electorate. In other words, electoral competition gives strong incentives for candidates to buy votes, but not to form an organization for mobilizing votes in a electorate. 1. The Candidates Choice of Strategies and Payoffs Assume 1. If both candidates adopt the same strategy, Candidate 1 will have a chance to win the election with the probability of p and Candidate 2 will have a chance to win the election with the probability of 1 p (0 < p < 1).And we let 0 < p ? 0. 5,which means the candidate 1 is weaker. 2. if one candidate buys votes while the other candidate does not,the candidate that has bought votes will win. Utility The utility of the candidate gaining from winning the election is denoted U (U > 0). Strategies Each candidate has two strategies buying votes (BV) and not buying votes (NBV). Cost of buying votes (C) the multiplication of the cost to buy one vote (? ) and the number of votes needed to buy (V). C= ?V suppose that C1>C2 (the cost of buying votes to win is higher as the candidate is weaker. ) Competitivenesswe can define the competitiveness of an election as the difficulty with which one can predict who will win, the election whose repute of p is closer to 0. 5 will be considered more than competitive. candidate2 Buying votes candidate1 Buying vo tes Not buying votes (pU-C1), (1-p)U-C2 0, U-C2 Not buying votes U-C1, pU, 0 (1-p)U The matrix in shows the incentives affecting candidates in a village election. . Solution of the model Since assume that 0 < p? 0. 5 and assume without loss of generality that Candidate 1 is weaker. Candidates 1 and 2 must choose their strategies simultaneously. Thus, neither candidate is certain about which strategy the other candidate will take. (BV, BV) will be equilibrium if U? C1/p (NBV, BV) will be equilibrium if C1/p? U? C2/p (NBV, NBV) will be equilibrium if U? C1/p (BV, NBV) can not be equilibrium, since we can not find any U that satisfies U? C1/(1-p) and U?C2/(1-p) as well. Because C1/(1-p)? C2/(1-p). As an election becomes more competitive(p is closer to 0. 5),the range where at least one candidate always buys votes,U? C2/p is larger. Moreover as p is larger,the range where neither candidate buy votes,U? C1/p is smaller. Overall, candidates are more likely to choose the strategy of buyi ng votes as an election becomes more competitive. In the villages where each candidates expected value of winning an election is high, the candidate is tempted to buy votes.Proposal Would electoral competition prevent a corrupt candidate from being elected? From the model, we can see, candidates are more likely to choose the strategy of buying votes as an election becomes more competitive, which may generate the following new hypothesis effective informal institutions would make it easier for villagers to reach a pre-electoral consensus, make a village election less competitive, and give candidates less incentive to promise the provision of private goods.How to reach a pre-electoral consensus? Since a Chinese village is enough small that could lead to human relationship system in village. In multi-kinship villages, whether pre-electoral consensus is reached and hence an election is not corrupt would depend on the relationship among kinship leaders.If the kinship leaders are in conf lict, villagers would fail to reach pre-electoral consensus, an election would be competitive, vote buying would be more likely meanwhile, if relations among kinship leaders are cooperative, the village would succeed in reaching pre-electoral consensus, an election would not be competitive, vote buying would be less likely, and public goods would be in good order provided. Therefore,how to prevent a vote-buying candidate from getting elected is a major policy question for Chinas village elections.

Sociological Issues In Education Education Essay

Throughout history, instructors require dealt with many inquiries that remain unresolved today. These of conditional relation questions address the nature of cognition, breeding, cultivateing, learnedness and larning. They deal with such issues as individualal and group rights to take part in schooling, and how educational chances were frequently limited by gender, race, and socioeconomic category prejudices.Different Ways of LearningFor many old ages, the particular proposition demands of kids with disablements have been neglected in the beau monde and have been excluded from schools. today, Federal Torahs and tribunals of jurisprudence have call for that their particular demands be considered to guarantee an equal direction ( Sadker, Sadker & A Zittleman, 2008 ) . nigh outstanding is the Persons with Disabilities Education Act ( IDEA ) which requires that kids with disablements instruction plans be every round near as possible to the mainstream plans therefore inclusion . Whereas inclusion has been noted to hold a convinced(p) impact on the schoolroom environment, it is disputing for the instructor and therefore more(prenominal) support for the instructor is needed.Inclusion poses assorted challenges to the instructor in the schoolroom. First, bulk of instructors ar non trained to manage the demands of particular pupils and are normally ill-prepared ensuing to defeat. A survey carried out by Daane and Berne-Smith ( 2000 ) study that instructors feel aill equipped, fright and frustrateda in inclusion. Second, as reported by Daane and Berne-Smith ( 2000 ) specializer points of equipment and the superior general school design does non ever let handicapped entree. Some handicapped pupils result necessitate particular installations which the ordinary schools do non usually leave or particular installations that mainstream schools did non integrate in their design. Such tools as wheel chair entree, Braille, and other particular equipments may non be available for the pupils. Finally, instructors do non normally get the necessary support from the school decision makers, the parents, and the society in general ( Daane & A Berne-Smith, 2000 ) .Whereas inclusion has received both support and unfavorable judgment, one thing dust clear, that it has posed a particular challenge for the instructor in the schoolroom. The deficiency of equal preparation and necessary resources leaves the instructor ill-prepared to get by with the demands of the particular kids. It is of merchandise that necessary support is accorded to the instructor in footings of equal resources and developing to enable run into the particular kid in order for inclusion to accomplish its abounding aims. First, wisecracking this support would make an enabling environment to enable the instructor to leave know conductge more in effect. Second this benefit extends to the pupils including the disabled as they will derive more cognition. Finally, this would pra ctise to motivated instructors and better improved teacher keeping, nest eggs in enlisting and preparation and improved quality in instruction.Student DiversenessThe American society is progressively acquiring change in footings of race, colour, civilization, ethnicity, linguistic communication, and sex ( Sadker, Sadker & A Zittleman, 2008 ) . The lifting variety show is expected to go on in the hereafter. In the schoolroom, and in order to run into the demands of the progressively change population, an profound attack demands to be adopted. Thus to be antiphonal to the society needs, America needs to recruit cultural diverseness by presenting culturally antiphonal instruction.The issue of Cultural diverseness is relevant in the society and needs to be addressed. This is because first, there is a lifting cultural diverseness in the American population. It is estimated that by 2030, 50 % of pupils in schools will be of colour Sadker, Sadker & A Zittleman, 2008. Second, there i s need to turn to the play inequality between assorted groups. White persons and Asians score higher on norm than Latino and African American pupils. In accessory, 50 % of these under resourced groups ivory out of school ( Sadker, Sadker & A Zittleman, 2008 ) . This consequences to a rise in societal offenses and a general impairment in the society. Finally, there is likely to be a relentless addition in cultural diverseness in footings of races and ethnicity.One manner of accomplishing the benefits of cultural diverseness as suggested by Unruh and McCord ( 2001 ) is through and through act uponing instructors attitudes is of significance in order to heighten the lifting diverseness in American schools. Whereas bing instructors instruction plans insist on multicultural sensitiveness and instruction methodological analysiss, wiz temperaments and attitudes towards diverseness may impact the effectivity of the instruction system. To accomplish effectivity and outlooks of the l ifting diverseness tendencies, it is of import non merely to subjugate on fixed plans except to besides concentrate on act uponing single instructor s attitudes. An environment that accommodates cultural variegation would ensue to a more contributing environment for larning. First, to the single pupil, it would ensue to a sense of value and therefore opportunities for better accomplishment. In the general school environment, it would ensue to a culturally rich and congratulating environment. Finally, a culturally diversified school environment would be reflected in the society making a status of regard and general society good being. To run into the demands to the progressively diversified population, it is of import that proper stairss are taken to move cultural diverseness in the instruction scene.Financing and Regulating American SchoolsRegulating and funding of American schools has been an issue of involvement. local and province authoritiess have faced challenges on govern ment and raising equal fundss for instruction. In the enterprise to supply equal and kickoff-cost instruction, regulating of schools has been a fundamental issue. Despite being an built-in portion in a school, instructors have for unyielding been relegated to the schoolrooms with minimum part in regulating their schools ( Sadker, Sadker & A Zittleman, 2008 ) . This essay argues that for effectual government of schools, instructors need to be more involved in determination devising.This is an of import issue in the society for several grounds. First, as reported by Morehead ( 2003 ) the major jobs that instructors face in the school environment are low wage, cardinal way and excessively much bureaucratism therefore sabotaging their active employment ( 86 ) . Excessively much bureaucratism and cardinal way undermines instructors sense of value, affects morale and increases turnover. Second, it consequences to less pipeline satisfaction and a sense of low worth which consequen ces to high turnovers in the school and in the profession in general. Finally, less teacher troth in the school direction consequences to low creativeness and untapped resources for development.In the quest to supply equal and low-cost instruction, proper government is of import. Soon, instructors have small part to the regulating in their schools despite their active engagement in the instruction environment. As reported by Morehead ( 2003 ) , an environment that allows instructors engagement in direction of schools result to professionally fulfilled and dedicated staff that has positive part to instruction. Teachers need to be actively involved in order to heighten positive instruction results. It is of import that policies are designed with parts from every stakeholder and in the instruction scene, it remains that for more effectual government and positive results, instructors should be more involved in determination devising.Exceptional, Gifted and Talented LearnersWhereas the society may by and large see the talented pupils to be the lucky 1s, a closer expression may uncover that they might really be disadvantaged. Despite their eternal wonder, creativeness and energy, when put into the regular schoolrooms, these kids may endure from negative equal force per unit reach, ennui and may really escape from out of school ( Sadker, Sadker & A Zittleman, 2008 ) . To enable these pupils to accomplish their potencies in life and to tap their exceeding cognition, it is of import that particular plans are put in topographical point in order to heighten their acquisition.This issue is of import for the assorted grounds. First, failure to make an enhanced environment for these pupils might blow their possible. Gilson ( 2009 ) argues that scholars in general demand to be invariably challenged failure to which they non merely go bored but they besides lose their willingness to dispute themselves to make better things ( 36 ) . Most scholars need proper support in order to run into their ends and talented pupils are no exclusion. They would see ennui and negative force per unit area when placed in regular categories and this may be a formula for dropping out alternatively of stand outing. This would particularly be singular if they come after from minority groups. The terminal consequence is that the exceptionally bright pupil experience disregard and apathy and less opportunities of success in school. Second, impairment of these pupils when put in regular categories represents is a failure by the society to tap their possible and therefore a loss to the society at big. seek indicates that talented pupils under such subjects as Science, engineering, Engineering, and mathematics have high opportunities of traveling from abilities to competences and finally to expertise ( Olszwski-Kubilius, 2010 ) .By provide particular plans for the talented pupils would ensue to several benefits. First, it would offer them an enabling environment that woul d enable them make their single potencies. Second, it would let effectual tapping of their accomplishments for the possible benefits to the whole society. When the particular qualities of talented pupils are indentified and decently developed through appropriate plans, they can do of import parts to the society. Finally, leting particular plans would show a opportunity for development of model graphics, medical discoveries, and singular innovations which may other than be lost if they were non allowed to work their full potencies.Is gender a acquisition manner?By and large, the society divides people into genders delegating assorted functions and outlooks to specific gender. This has led to suggestions that females may prefer to larn one manner while males may prefer a different 1. Some believe that this should name for edifice of instruction establishments for the different gender ( Sadker, Sadker & A Zittleman, 2008 ) . While some consider this stereotypic, some have advanced th at this is a generalisation that can be harnessed to supply improved results in instruction. This essay argues that Gender is a learning manner and should be utilized for positive acquisition results.This issue is of import for assorted grounds. First, its pinch and use would ease betterments in impacting cognition more efficaciously for the two genders. Second, males and females exhibit different cognitive acquisition manners and therefore might necessitate different attacks in order to larn efficaciously. Males are more intuitive scholars while females were more sensing scholars ( Alumran, 2008 ) . In a related survey moth miller et Al. ( as quoted in Alurman, 2008 ) established that males are more kinaesthetic, haptic, ocular, and were more nomadic whereas females where more conforming, more ego, parent or instructor motivated than males ( 305 ) . Intuitive scholars, who were preponderantly male are more inventive and advanced and have a better consumption at abstraction emba rking into possibilities and relationships. Conversely feeling scholars, who are preponderantly females are good at memorizing, better consumption of facts, apply good known processs to work out jobs, stress on item, and prefer everyday and foreseeable facets.Females and males exhibit different penchants for societal and conceptual acquisition manners. Females show more concern for others , prefer custodies on experience and practical facets with more orientation towards emotive and making. Conversely, males exhibited concern for ego prefer abstractive and brooding acquisition, learned better when believing and watching and opted for abstract and consecutive manners ( Keri as quoted in Alarman, 2008 ) .Research indicates that males and females prefer different acquisition manners, that gender is a learning manner. Whereas protagonism may non be made for sole gender acquisition establishments, it is of import that instructors in the schoolroom are cognizant of the different acq uisition manners that specific gender prefers. Assorted benefits would be achieved by an apprehension of this issue. First, it would let inventing appropriate plans for the genders which would heighten larning for the single pupil. Further, it would move to better the quality of instruction by and large. It would farther let the chase of effectual and economical attacks to larning between genders. One of the major facets of successful universities is the top executive to progress acquisition by understanding the manner pupils learn.Student Life in School and At HomeThe American society has seen a gradual passage in past old ages. Previously there was communal engagement to conveying up of kids and adult females were left at place to rise up the kids. Today s economic force per unit areas requires instances where both parents are working, ensuing to less child care. School life greatly influences the kid growing and societal activities and instructors are hence more involved in conv eying up the kids ( Sadker, Sadker & A Zittleman, 2008 ) . Changing household lives are negatively impacting school life and instructors have a major function to play in bettering the state of affairs.The state of affairs consequences to assorted negative impacts. First, there has been a dramatic alteration in the societal and economic factors in the household unit and these have extended to impact school life. In the past communities communally took the duty of raising kids but this has changed cod to fixing work forms, less child care installations and economic factors ( Sadker, Sadker & A Zittleman, 2008 ) . In the old times, the societal cloth was strong and communities approached issues communally. Today in the face of lifting economic force per unit areas, poorness, altering work forms where a significant proportion of kids are raised by individual parents or both parents go to work supervising of the kid is declining. This has in great portion contributed to challenges of bead outs, drug and intoxicant maltreatment, self-destruction, gestation and weight concerns.To cut down the impacts of altering household lives to instruction instructors need to make favourable schoolroom environments. It is merely through making a favourable environment where prejudice and hatred are replaced with trust, dignity, positive relationship and informed gender that the state of affairs can be improved ( Abbot, 2006 ) . Students will execute drearily in environments where negative personal effects are prevailing. These effects are damaging as they affect the psychological facets of the pupil and will more frequently than non ensue to drop outs or low public presentations. In the schoolroom scene, developing course of studies need to acknowledge altering household life. The course of study needs to stress community engagement, health issues. By pupil engagement in societal services, cut down tracking and concentrating affectional developments of pupils, instructors ca n cut down the negative impacts.Do Teachers Like training?Teaching is one of the callings that employ the largest figure of people. Despite this, there have been suggestions that instructors may non be really happy in their calling particularly due to the comparatively low wage as compared to other professions and the bureaucratic system. This might be supported by the high turn-over in this calling. Some instructors have heretofore reported that they really do love their calling chiefly due to its intrinsic wagess. This essay argues that despite the high turnovers in instruction, most instructors like to learn. collar whether instructors like instruction has several deductions. First, it would let an understating of instructor s behaviours and perceptual experiences this supplying an account for their behavior. Second, an apprehension would supply a model in inventing slipway of act uponing their behaviour and behavior. It would for illustration explain why there are high turno ver in the profession.Most instructors are satisfied with what they do and the instruction environment. A NEA study reported that 80 % of the instructors were comfy with their occupation, the occupation security and the related liberty ( Sadker, Sadker & A Zittleman, 2008 ) . Most instructors express their satisfaction with instruction. Teachers like their occupation despite studies of low wage because they are motivated by other factors apart from wage. A survey by Chan ( 2005 ) reported that the most influential factors impacting motivations and committal to learning were selfless motivations, occupation conditions and influence from others ( 14 ) . Teachers province that they take up learning places chiefly because they liked working with kids and striplings they wanted to be of instigate to others, they perceived the work to be meaningful and ambitious and it was in correspondence to their personality. Factors inessential factors as stuff wagess do non act upon the pick o f a learning calling every bit much as these other factors. It is of import that the intrinsic factors that induce motive and committedness in instructors are enhanced with extrinsic factors.Most instructors love their calling particularly due to its intrinsic wagess which include satisfaction, the challenge, occupation security and the liberty in the category room. The comparatively low wage, bureaucratisms in the system and other unfavourable conditions might explicate the high turnover in the calling. This understating that instructors like their calling suggests that focal point should be on supplying better work conditions, better wage, occupation stableness which would greatly heighten instructors committedness and motive ensuing to better instruction outcomes. This will in add-on promote positive acquisition results for the pupils and heighten the degree of instruction in the society in general.DecisionEducation signifiers an of import facet of human life by fiting the perso n with necessary capableness to run into future challenges and better life. The school environment has assorted interactions which despite the purpose to accomplish efficiency make non ever do this. Among other issues, it of import that instructors are good equipped to cover with inclusion of handicapped pupils in the schoolroom, to understand how changing life styles are impacting the pupil environment, and to advance cultural diverseness in the schools. In add-on, it is of import to affect the instructor more in school government, to see the demands to talented pupils, to use gender efficaciously as a acquisition manner, and to better on conditions that negatively impact teacher s perceptual experiences of learning. Such attempts may travel a long manner in bettering the efficiency and effectivity of the acquisition and the instruction environment.

The Golden Lily Chapter 10

THE SAN DIEGO TRIP continued to bother me, pay back up though I knew I should let it go. As I often reminded myself, Adrian wasnt my c at oncern, non alike Jill and the others. Yet, I couldnt stop thinking near the terrible confrontation with him and Nathan or Adrians facial expression afterwards.I felt even worse when a worried Eddie came to talk to me ab prohibited Jill during breakfast on the following Monday. more or s unobjectionablethings wrong with her, he told me.Immediately, I visualizeed up toward the cafeteria line, where Jill was waiting with her tray.There was a va stopt olfactory modality on her face, like she was barely aware of her surroundings. Even with no magical talent for auras, I could practically date stamp the misery radiating off of her.Micahs observe it too, Eddie added. But we dont shaft anything that could be upsetting her this much. Is it beca persona of Lia? Or is she being harassed again? In that moment, I wasnt sure who I felt worse for A drian, Jill or Eddie. There was practically as much pain in Eddie as at that place was in Jill. Oh, Eddie, I theory. Why do you keep doing this to yourself? He was all the modal value worried virtually her scarce wouldnt dare approach her or offer comfort.Theres nothing wrong with Jill. Its Adrian, and shes feeling it th vulgar the bond. Hes going d angiotensin converting enzyme a rough time. I offered no to a greater extent details on Adrians situation. It wasnt my story to tell.Eddies face darkened a subatomic. Its not fair that she has to endure his moods.I dont know, I said. Seems like it might be a fair trade for her being alive. Adrian using spirit to bring Jill back from the dead was unagitated a troubling question for me. every bit of Alchemist training I had said that kind of magic was wrong, far worse than any of the other magic Id witnessed. star could even deliberate that what hed managed was only a few steps away from the undead immortality of Strigoi. At th e same time, whenever I sawing machine Jill sleek and alive, I was convinced that Adrian had done a proficient thing. Id meant it when I said as much to him in San Diego.I suppose, said Eddie. I wish on that point was a way she could block him out. Or at least a way to make him a little less moody.I shook my head. From what Ive heard, Adrian was like that long before Jill was shadow-kissed.Still, that conversation stuck with me, and I fagged the day asking myself what could I do to make Adrian happier? A new father provablely wasnt possible. I would have tried that on myself years past if I could. Slushes were also out, partially because they only offered ten minutes of comfort and because I was remedy rec everywhereing from the sustain one. An idea finally came to me later on, nevertheless it wasnt one I could easily implement. In fact, I knew my superiors would theorise it was nothing I should even attempt which is why I decided to do it in a way that wouldnt leave an e-mail or paper trail. I couldnt do it today, however, so I made a mental note to transmit with it later. Be founts, who could say? Maybe Adrian would shake off the effects of his fatherly encounter on his own.These hopes were actually reinforced when I saw Jill the next day at a civilise assembly.Assemblies like this were still a new concept to me, and wed had exactly two since school started. One had been a wel approach shot gathering during our start hebdomad. The other had been a pep rally to cheer on the football team before Homecoming. Todays was called Healthy Lifestyles. I couldnt figure out what it was about or why it was important enough to interrupt my chemistry class.We were seated by grade in the schools gym, putting Jill and me in separate sections of the bleachers. Craning my neck to get a glimpse of her, I saw her sitting down near the front with Angeline and several friends shed made with Micah. Theyd welcomed her easily once they got to know her, which wasnt a bewilderment with how nice she was. Even Laurel, a girl whod once tormented Jill, now gave her a friendly look. Angeline said close tothing that made Jill laugh, and, overall, at that place was definitely an improvement in Jills attitude. A very big improvement, judging from how much she was giggling. My spirits rose. Maybe Adrian really had bounced back.Can someone tell me what this is about? I asked. I had Eddie and Micah on one side of me, Trey on the other.Its this group that comes to school and gives presentations about things like drugs and safe sex, explained Micah. He was pretty active in student government, so I wasnt surprised he knew about todays agenda.Those are kind of big topics, I said. Isnt this scantily supposed to be an hour? Doesnt seem like they can really provide thorough coverage of these issues.I think its full supposed to be a quick overview, said Trey. Not like theyre move to do a seminar or anything.Well, I declared. They should.Did we miss anything? Julia and Kristin pushed their way through others and squeezed themselves in between Trey and me. Trey didnt seem to mind.Were trying to explain the predict of this to Sydney, Trey told them.I thought the point was to get out of class, said Julia.Kristin rolled her eyes. Thisll show you what you were missing by being homeschooled, Sydney.Nothing could have prepared me for the spectacle that followed mostly because never in my craziest dreams had I imagined weighty social issues would be addressed in musical numbers. The group performing for us called themselves Koolin rough, and the inappropriate use of that K was nearly enough to make me notch out then and there. Before each song, theyd give a quick and totally vague info-blurb about the topic or even worse a skit. These little lectures always began with, Hey, kidsThe first song was called STDs Are Not for Me. That was when I took out my math homework. neck on, Eddie told me, laughing. Its not that bad. And people should kno w about this stuff.Exactly, I said, not looking up from my homework. In trying to be hip and relatable,theyre trivializing issues that strike to be taken more seriously. The only time I tuned in again was when Koolin Around had moved on to the evils of alcohol.One of the lyrics in their particularly atrocious song was, Dont listen to what your friends say / Bourbon will totally ruin your day.Ugh. Thats it, I muttered. I sought out Jill again. She was watching with kind of a stunned disbelief, scarcely just like foregoing, there was none of that despair or melancholy. Some gut instinct told me why shed had the mood change. Adrian hadnt snapped out of his gloom.Most likely he was drinking his way through it. Sometimes Jill would pick up some of the sillier side effects of intoxication like the giggling Id observed earlier but eventually, alcohol actually numbed the spirit bond. The bright side of his indulgence was that it spared her some of his depression. The down side was that she could actually suffer the physical effects of a hangover later.Koolin Around mercifully reached their last song, a big production number celebrating the joys of feeling healthy and living a healthy, happy lifestyle. They pulled up members of the student body to dance with them, earning a variety of reactions. Some students just stood there frozen and embarrassed, wearing expressions that said they were counting the seconds until this ended. Other students particularly those who normally sought attention in class made the biggest, most outlandish spectacle they could of themselves.Sydney.The warning note in Eddies voice stopped me as I was about to return to my homework.That kind of concern could only be uncommunicative for Jill, and I immediately looked at her again.Only, she wasnt the issue. Angeline was. One of the Koolin Around members was trying to coax her out and even grabbed her hand. Angeline shook her head emphatically, but the guy cable seemed oblivious. Angeline might be okay nigh wild dances in the backwoods of West Virginia, but this was not a situation she was comfortable with.To be fair, what happened next wasnt entirely her fault. He really should have left her alone when she said no, but I guess he was too caught up in his feel-good mood. He actually managed to sail her to her feet, and thats when Angeline made her disapproval perfectly clear.She punched him.It was pretty impressive since the guy had almost a foot on her in height. I supposed that came from Eddies training in how to take out taller Moroi. The guy staggered backward and fell, hitting the floor unattackable. There was a gasp from most of the students sitting nearby, though only one of the lap members a guitarist noticed. The rest kept on singing and dancing.The guitarist hurried forward to her fallen colleague and must have threatened Angelines personal space because Angeline punched her too.Eddie, do something I said.He turned to me in astonishment. Like what? I d never make it there in time. It was true. We were two thirds of the way up in the bleachers, surrounded by others. I could only watch helplessly as the rest of the spectacle unfolded. The band soon caught on that something was terribly wrong, and their music faltered, finally coming to silence. Meanwhile, a group of teachers had rushed the floor, trying to pry Angeline away from KoolinArounds bass player. There was a frantic look in her eyes, like a trap animal that had gone beyond reason and only wanted escape. The teachers finally managed to restrain her, but not before shed thrown a speaker at the lead singer (she missed) and punched the schools shop teacher.Trey leaned forward, mouth gaping. Thats your cousin? Wow. I didnt even bother responding. All I could think about was how in the domain of a function I was going to do damage control this time. Fighting was a serious offense in and of itself. I couldnt even imagine what attacking a motivational musical group would elicit. She took out, like, three people twice her size Kristin exclaimed. And I mean took out.Knocked them to the floor.Yeah, I know, I said dismally. Im right here. I saw it all.How was she even able to do that? asked Julia.I taught her some moves, remarked Eddie in disbelief.Unsurprisingly, no one even bothered sending this to Mrs. Weathers. Angeline was referred directly to the principal and vice principal. subsequently her display, maybe they felt there was safety in numbers. It may have been Mrs. Weatherss recommendation or simply the fact that our fictitious parents (and cousin Angelines) were notoriously hard to get a hold of, but I was asked to accompany her when she met with the administration.My pre-briefing with Angeline was short and to the point. You will act apologetic and ruthful, I told her as we sat removed the principals office.Whats contrite mean?Apologetic.Then why didnt you just say And, I continued. If pushed for reasons, you will say you were overwhelmed and pani cked.Youll say you dont know what came over you.But I didnt And you will not mention how stupid they were or say anything negative whatsoever.But they are In fact, dont speak at all unless youre asked something directly. If you let me handle this, itll be over fast.Angeline apparently took that to disembodied spirit because she crossed her arms and glared at me, refusing to say anything else.When we were ushered into the office, the principal and vice principal Mrs. Welch and Mr. Redding, respectively were both sitting on the same side of one desk. They were side by side, presenting a united front that again made me think they feared for their lives.Miss McCormick, began Mrs. Welch. I hope you know that what you did was completely out of line. McCormick was Angelines fake last name around here.Violence and fighting of any kind are not tolerated at Amberwood, said Mr. Redding. We have high standards standards meant to cover the safety of everyone at this school and expect our students to adhere to them. None of your other violations of school rules come close to what you did today.Even if we didnt have those other transgressions on file, there can be no question here, said Mrs. Welch. There is no place for you at Amberwood. My stomach sank. censure. Although the Keepers werent entirely uneducated, her academic background had simply been up to that of average high school students in the modern world. She was in a lot of remedial classes, and getting her into Amberwood at all had been quite a feat. Expulsion wasnt as bad as someone investigating how a petite girl like her could do so much damage, but it still wasnt an import I wanted. I could already imagine one of my superiors asking, why didnt you realize how volatile the school was making her? To which I would have to respond because Ive been too sprightly going on dates and helping vampires who arent my concern.Do you have anything to say for yourself before we notify your parents? asked Mrs.Welch . They looked at Angeline expectantly. I braced myself for an irrational tirade. Instead, Angeline managed to produce some snap which, I had to admit, certainly looked contrite. I I panicked, she said. I dont know what came over me. So much happened at once, and that guy was so scary, and I just freaked out.I felt threatened. I wanted everyone to get away from me I was nearly convinced, probably because it was seeded with truth. Angeline had had a number of flustered moments at Amberwood, no thing her bravado. There were more people at the school than had been in her mountain community, and shed been so overwhelmed in her first week that wed had to take turns escorting her to class. I really shouldve been gainful more attention to her.Mr. Redding looked a tiny bit sympathetic but not enough to change his mind. Im sure that must have been hard, but it was hardly reason for you to act in that way. Injuring three people and damaging expensive audio visual equipment were in no way a ppropriate responses. Understatement.I was jade of the formalities and needed to fix things before they escalated further. I leaned forward in my chair. You know what else isnt appropriate? A thirty-year-old guy because thats how old he was, no guinea pig how young and cool they were trying to be grabbing a fifteen-year-old girl. It was bad enough that he did so when she clearly didnt want to go with him. The point is he never should have touched her in the first place. Shes a minor. If a teacher did that, hed be fired. Ive read the book teachers are given from your HRdepartment. It had been an attempt to see if Ms. Terwilliger was abusing me. Medical emergencies and breaking up a fight are the only times teachers can lay hands on students. Now, you might argue that that guy wasnt a teacher or employed by the school, but his group was invited here by the school which is obligated to keep its students safe. Youre a private school, but Im certain the California Department of Educ ation would have a few things to say about what happened here today as will Angelines father, whos a lawyer. He was actually the leader of a bunch of mountain vampires and had multiple wives, but that was beside the point. I looked back and forth between Mrs. Welch and Mr. Reddings faces. Now then. Shall we renegotiate your position?Angeline was in awe after we left the office and went back to our dorm. Suspension, she exclaimed, a bit too much joy in her voice for my liking. I really just get to skip class? That sounds more like a reward.You still have to keep up with your homework, I warned. And you cant leave the dorm.Dont even think about sneaking out because that will get you expelled, and I wont be able to save you again.Still, she said, practically skipping, this was all pretty easy. I came to a halt in front of her, forcing her to face me. It was not easy. You got off on a technicality. Youve continually resisted efforts to follow the rules around here, and today well, tha t was off the charts. You arent back home. The only time you should even think about fighting here is if Jill is attacked. Thats why youre here. Not to do whatever you want. You said you were up to the challenge of protecting her. If you get expelled and its a miracle you werent shes at risk. So get in line or start packing for home. And for Gods sake, leave Eddie alone.Her face had been kindling with anger as I spoke, but that last bit caught her off guard.What do you mean?I mean, you constantly throwing yourself at him.She sniffed. Thats how you show a guy you like him.Maybe among the uncivilized Here you need to back off and start acting like a responsible human being er, dhampir. Whatever. Youre making him miserable Besides, youre supposed to be cousins. Youre screwing up our cover. Angelines jaw dropped. I Im making him miserable? I almost felt bad for her. The look of shock on her face was so great that it was obvious she really hadnt known what she was doing to Eddie was w rong. I was too worked up to feel much sympathy right then, though. Jill had acted out when wed first arrived, and that had been just as frustrating. Id come to lie with our peace, and now Angeline was threatening all of that. Unlike Jill, she didnt seem to realize it, and I didnt know if that made things better or worse.I left an upset and defeated Angeline off at her dorm room and also verified with Jill that Adrian had indeed been drinking. That and my agitation were more than enough to make me want to leave campus, if only for the escape. Brayden had asked earlier if I wanted to go out, but I wasnt up to that. I sent a quick text Cant go out tonight. Family stuff. Then I headed off to Clarences.Id called ahead to make sure Dimitri and Sonya were there since I had no interest in having a one-on-one visit with the ancient Moroi. He wasnt around when I arrived. I found Dimitri and Sonya huddled over some cards with blots of dried blood, speculating on how to proceed.Itd be intere sting to get Strigoi blood and see if anything happened when I applied spirit, she was saying. Do you think you could manage that?Gladly, said Dimitri.They noticed me. As soon as she looked up, Sonya asked, Whats wrong? I didnt even bother asking how she knew. My face probably said more than my aura did.Angeline got into a brawl with a motivational group at school. Dimitri and Sonya exchanged looks. Maybe we should go get some dinner, he said. He grabbed a set of keys from the table. Lets go downtown. I never wouldve imagined that Id look forward to going out with a Moroi and a dhampir. It was yet some other sign of how far Id advanced or regressed, by Alchemist standards. Compared to most of the other people in my life, Dimitri and Sonya were grounded and stable. It was refreshing.I gave them a rundown of Angelines behavior, as well as my thinly veiled legal threat.That part seemed to amuse Sonya.Smart, she said, twirling spaghetti on a fork. Maybe you should be in law school ins tead of the Alchemists.Dimitri found it less funny. Angeline came here to do a job. She wanted out of the Keepers and swore shed devote every waking minute to protecting Jill.There has been a bit of a husbandry shock, I admitted, unsure as to why I was defending Angeline. And those guys today I mean, if theyd tried to get me to join their sing-along, I probably wouldve punched them too.Unacceptable, said Dimitri. He used to be a combat instructor, and I could understand why. Shes here on a mission. What she did was reckless and irresponsible. Sonya gave him a sly smile. And here I thought you had a fleecy spot for reckless young girls.Rose never would have done anything like that, he countered. He paused to reconsider, and I couldve sworn there was the hint of a smile there. Well, at least not in such a public setting.Once the Angeline topic was put to rest, I brought up the reason Id come here. So no experiments today?Even Sonyas good nature faltered. Ah. No, not exactly. Weve go ne over some notes on our own, but Adrian hasnt been he hasnt been quite up to the research this week. Or up to going to class.Dimitri nodded. I was over there earlier. He could barely answer the door. No idea what hed been drinking, but whatever it was, hed had a lot. Considering their rocky relationship, I wouldve expected disdain in discussing Adrians vices. Instead, Dimitri sounded disappointed, as though hed expected better.Thats what I wanted to talk to you about, I said. Id eaten little of my dinner and was nervously tearing a roll into pieces. Adrians current mood isnt entirely his fault. I mean, it is, but I can kind of understand it. You know we saw his dad this weekend, right? Well it didnt go well.There was a knowing glint in Dimitris dark eyes. Im not surprised. Nathan Ivashkov isnt the easiest man to get along with.He sort of tore down everything Adrians been trying to do. I tried to make a case for Adrian, but Mr. Ivashkov wouldnt listen. Thats why I was wondering if you guys could help. Sonya couldnt get across her surprise. Id gladly help Adrian, but something tells me Nathans not going to really put much stock in what we have to say.Thats not what I was thinking. I gave up on the bread and dropped all the pieces to my plate. You guys are both close to the queen. Maybe you could get her to tell Adrians dad how I dont know. What an asset hes been. How much hes been helping. Obviously, she couldnt explain exactly what hes doing, but anything might help. Mr. Ivashkov wont listen to Adrian or anyone else, but hed have to take a commendation from the queen seriously. If shed do it.Dimitri looked thoughtful. Oh, shed do it. Shes always had a soft spot for him. Everyone seems to.No, I said stubbornly. Not everyone. Theres a split. Half condemn him and write him off as useless like his dad. The other half just shrug and indulge him and say, Well, thats Adrian. Sonya studied me carefully, a trace of that amusement returning. And you?I dont think he sh ould be babied or disregarded. If you expect him to do great things, he will.Sonya said nothing right away, and I shifted uncomfortably under her scrutiny. I didnt like when she looked at me like this. It was about more than auras. It was like she could see into my heart and soul.Ill speak to Lissa, she said at last. And Im sure Dimitri will too. In the meantime, lets hope that if we follow your advice and expect Adrian to sober up soon, he will. We had just paid the square up when Dimitris cell phone rang. Hello? he answered. And like that, his face transformed. That fierceness I so associated with him softened, and he practically glowed. No, no. Its always a good time for you to call, Roza. Whatever the response on the other end was, it made him smile.Rose, said Sonya to me. She stood up. Lets give them a little privacy. You want to take a walk?Sure, I said, rising as well. Outside, dusk was falling. Theres a costume store a few blocks away I actually want to check if theyre sti ll open. Sonya glanced at Dimitri. Meet us there? she whispered. He gave a quick nod. Once we were outside in the warm evening air, she laughed. Ah, those two. In a fight, theyre lethal.Around each other, they melt.Is that how you and Mikhail are? I asked, thinking there wasnt much melting with Brayden and me, no matter how much I enjoyed spending time with him.She laughed again and glanced up at the sky, painted in shades of orange and blue. Not exactly. Every relationship is different. Everyone loves differently. There was a long pause as she chose her next words. That was a nice thing you chose to do for Adrian.There was no choice to be made, I countered. We crossed onto a busier street, full of brightly lit stores with water misters outside that were meant to cool off hot shoppers. I winced at what that mist was doing to my hair. I had to help. He didnt deserve that kind of treatment.I cant imagine how Adrians put up with that his on the whole life. And would you believe that w hat worried Adrian the most was that I would think less of him?Actually, said Sonya softly, I can very much believe that. The costume store was still open, thanks to extended Halloween hours, but only for ten more minutes. Sonya wandered around the aisles with no real goal, but I headed immediately for the historical section. They had exactly one classic-style dress left, a plain white gown with a gold plastic belt. I knelt down to take a better look. Opening the package, I felt the fabric. It was cheap, probably flammable. The dress was also an XL, and I wondered if Jill had learned enough in sewing club to take it in for me. With less than a week until the dance, my options were limited.Really? a voice beside me said. Havent you insulted me enough without resorting to this trash?Standing above me was Lia DiStefano. Her curly hair was bound up with a bright red scarf, and a voluminous peasant blouse made her petite body look like it had wings. She peered down at me disapprovingly w ith kohl-lined eyes.Are you following me? I asked, getting to my feet. Every time Im downtown, here you are.If I were following you, I never would have let you set foot in here in the first place. She pointed at the costume. What is that?My outfit for Halloween, I said. Im going Greek.Its not even the right size.Ill get it taken in.She tsked. Im so appalled, I dont even know where to start. You want a Greek dress? Ill make you one. A good one. Not this monstrosity. My God. People know you know me. If you were seen in that, itd ruin my career.Yeah, because what I wear to a high school dance will really make or break you.Whens your dance? she asked.Saturday.Easy, she declared. She gave me a once-over and nodded in satisfaction. Easy measurements too. Is your sister dressing just as badly?Not sure, I admitted. She talked about making a fairy dress in sewing club. A blue one, I think.Lia blanched. Even worse. Ill make her a dress too. Ive already got her measurements. I sighed. Lia, I k now what youre trying to do, and it wont work. Jill absolutely cannot model for you again. It doesnt matter how much bribery you try. Lia attempted an innocent look that was in no way convincing. Who said anything about bribery? Im doing this out of charity. Itd be a disgrace to let you two go out in anything less than the best.Lia Do not buy that, she warned, pointing at the costume. Its a waste. You might as well set your money on fire although, it probably wouldnt light as fast as that dress. Ill let you know when your costumes are ready. With that, she turned on her high wooden heels and walked away, leaving me staring.Did you get a costume? Sonya asked me later, once the closing store forced us to leave.Weirdly, yes, I said. But not from there.Dimitri apparently wasnt done with his call, since he hadnt joined us yet. We strolled leisurely back toward the restaurant, lacking(p) to give him more time with Rose. Other stores were closing, and the tourists were beginning to thin out. I explained the meeting with Lia. Sonya found it more amusing than I did.Well, dont knock it, she said. If a originator wants to make you something, youre not obligated to give her anything else. Maybe she could help me out with bridesmaid dresses. We crossed a less busy street and cut through a narrow alley with a brick building on one side and a tree-filled church lawn on the other. Id admired the church on our way over, but now, in only a short time, evening had filled it with shadows and given it a foreboding look and feel. I was glad I wasnt pass through here alone. It felt strange to be reassured by a vampires presence.Lia does make amazing things, I admitted. But I dont know if we should kick upstairs her.Fair enough, said Sonya. Maybe one of these days, youll help me look for dresses.Youve got a really good sense of She suddenly spun around toward the darkened churchyard. There was a look of fear on her face, but I saw nothing alarming at first. Seconds later, fou r figures in black jumped out from behind the trees. One of them threw me against the brick wall while the other three pinned Sonya to the ground. I pushed back against my captor, but a muscled arm held me tightly. In the faint light, I saw a twinkle of something I never expected to see on the streets of Palm Springs a sword.The dark figure poised it over Sonyas neck. Time to go back to Hell, he said.