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Jeremy here! This is my take on how Kitsune and NoFace met.
Title: Two Hearts Beat Tonight
Summary: He was a spirit. She was a demon. He was lonely. She pitied him. He was feared. She was abused. He wanted a friend. She wanted to love. Two beings entirely different, yet a love that was one in the same. One-Shot.
That night, it rained. Lightning flashed, and her heart bled. She put a hand to her breast, trying to stop the pain. It would not stop. Small tears tracked down her face, rolling down her cheeks and falling to the wooden floor.
A small frog assistant stopped to ask the girl what was wrong, but she did not answer. She looked at him, sadly, with golden eyes, misty. She continued to walk down the hall. The frog looked at the white-haired beauty in wonder. For such a creature to be sad meant trouble. He dismissed it for now, waiting on the other customers.
The girl sighed, turning a corner, and cried. How long had it been since she left? Only two months? Maybe even three. But the pain she still felt was so very real. She thought he loved her. She thought he'd be there for her. But he raped her and stole the twins she carried from her. Tasuki and Tatami were only newborns. Why'd he have to kidnap them?
She stood back up, wiping her eyes, and walking down the corridor. She had no idea of where she was going, but she had to go. Anywhere to take her mind off of him.
As she continued to walk, she noticed how many bathhouse yuna and aogeru were lining the hall. They were swarmed in mass numbers. And they seemed frightened.
She walked up to one. "Excuse me," she asked, "But what's going on?"
The yuna turned to her. "Don't go down there!" she warned, "A monster is in the room down the hall. A monster named NoFace. He's eaten three of our staff, and he's gorging himself on all of our food!"
The white-haired girl nodded, but continued down the hall, curiously.
She turned a corner, sighting the sliding screen doors that led into the room. However, one of the bathhouse workers stopped her. "Excuse me, miss," he said, "But no one is permitted inside. It's too dangerous."
There was a crash from the other side of the door and both the girl and the worker gasped, turning to face the door. It shook slightly. There were noises from the other side of it. Someone or something was moving around, making things crash to the ground.
"Where is Sen? Bring her to me!" came a voice from the other side. Something large was pacing.
The girl moved towards the door, ignoring the warnings from the workers around her. She slowly reached out, sliding the door open and creeping inside, shutting the door behind her. She stared in wonder at the large, black creature in front of her. It wore a whitish mask with black eye and mouth marks, and purple lines running vertically above and below the eye marks.
The creature stopped pacing and turned its mask in her direction. It approached her, looking her up and down. Its mask frowned. "You're not Sen."
She finally found words, and spoke. "No, I'm not Sen," she said, "My name is Kitsune."
NoFace's mask smirked, as he picked up a dish and offered it to her. "Would you like some?"
Kitsune shook her head. "I don't eat much."
"What are you? Anorexic?"
Kitsune growled. "No, I just don't get hungry much," she said. (PS: That is a complete lie. Kitsune actually loves to eat, much like that Miaka girl in Fushigi Yugi. And she doesn't gain a pound. Amazing.)
NoFace dropped the dish. "Then what about some gold? You'd like that, wouldn't you? You're a kitsune, after all. You can't resist it." Kitsune turned away, looking at him, warily, at the corners of her eyes.
He held out a hand full of gold, and shook it, tempting her to come close. She heard the jingling sound, so tempting. It was tormenting her.
She turned her head back to him, looking at the gold. She sniffed the air. "I don't really need any right now, thank you, though," she replied, smiling. NoFace dropped the gold, sensing the fake smile.
"What's wrong?" he asked. "I can sense something's not right."
"Why would you care?" Kitsune asked, "You're just going to eat me, right? Why would you care about my feelings?"
"Just because of that, it doesn't mean I don't have feelings of my own," NoFace responded.
"What kind of feelings?"
"You're lonely?"
"Yes," the creautre said, backing down, "Very lonely. And that's why I want Sen. She's so selfless and caring . . . She would make a good friend. Don't you think?"
"Maybe, if I'd ever met her," Kitsune said, "She sounds like a nice person."
"So, will you tell me what's bothering you?" he asked.
Kitsune sat down. "Well, I thought this wolf demon named Jyaki loved me, but he raped me and stole my sons he left me with. Now they're at his mercy. I can't even go after them, I don't know where he is."
"That's . . ."
"Terrible," the black creature finished.
The two sat in silence for a while, until NoFace approached her again. "I'll tell you what," he said, "I won't eat you (Not like I was gonna anyways, but I'm just sayin . . .)."
" . . . That's it?"
"That's it."
"No terms? You don't want money or a piece of my clothes or something like that? You just . . . won't eat me?"
"Exactly," the black spirit said.
Kitsune stood up. "Well, it was nice to meet you, NoFace. You're not the monster the people are talking about out there," she said, holding out her hand.
NoFace stuck out his own hand and they shook.
However, just when she thought he'd let go, his grip tightened and he pulled her to him. She crashed into his soft body and felt his arms ancircle her, before she blacked out.
For a while, she was in darkness, until she heard soft footsteps. She looked and saw a handsome man with straight brown hair and deep brown eyes, wearing nothing but a pair of jeans. He crossed his arms and smiled. He nodded, and she once again blacked out.
When she awoke, she saw that NoFace was still holding her to him, one hand stroking her hair, comfortingly. For a while, Kitsune dismissed it, and just let him hold her. She sighed, closing her eyes and placing her head against his body. She heard his heartbeat, and felt her own coincide with it. They beat with the same rhythm.
"That was you, wasn't it?" she whispered, opening her eyes. "The man."
NoFace nodded and pulled away, reluctantly. He backed away into the corner of the room, and watched the strange kitsune stand up. "You should leave," he said, "It's dangerous for you to be here. People will wonder."
Kitsune nodded, going to the door. Before she left, she slid the door open, and looked back at him. She pitied him. She'd hate it, to be lonely like that. She nodded and whispered her good-bye, before leaving and closing the sliding door.
She wandered quietly down the hall, back the way she came. The people around her watched, silently, as the girl walked solemnly down the hall. No one said a word.
Later, as she lay in the large tub filled with herbal water, soaking it in, her thoughts ran back to the strange creature in that room.
What was this feeling she had now? She felt pity for him, true. She knew he was lonely, and true, she was lonely, too. They had so much in common.
Now she just wanted to stay by him. To comfort him. To be with him, and help him. To let him ease her pain. To soak in his scent. To just stay as they were, there in his arms. To see the man he truly was . . .
She sighed, laying down further in the water.
Maybe he could repair the broken remains of her heart . . .


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Beautiful product but...
By Chichigirl
from Edmonton
The milk within the container is very nice. It is very moisturizing and leaves a beautifully light fragrance behind. The fragrance does not stay with me for very long. My one and only problem is with the bottle and lid/opening. The bottle is VERY stiff making it very difficult to get the product out. Combining the difficult to hold shape along with the stiff plastic bottle it makes it very difficult to squeeze out just a tiny bit of product...especially with my arthritic hands.
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Eversheds is losing a member of its corporate group after only four months to Premier Asset Management.
Nicholas Narraway has become legal director for both Premier Fund Managers and Premier Portfolio Managers, subsidiaries of Premier Asset Management.
Corporate finance specialist Narraway joined Eversheds in May from Lawrence Graham where he was a partner.
Premier was one of Narraway's clients during his 19 years at Lawrence Graham, and this relationship is one of the reasons for the move.
"As usual, I suppose it's not just one driving force, it's a combination of forces," says Narraway. "I know the company and I've worked for them for some years so I feel comfortable with where I'm going to."
Narraway will continue to work for Eversheds on a consultancy basis.
He says: "It was not at all a matter of leaving Eversheds, so much as joining Premier. I imagine they're disappointed, and in one sense so am I. But they've been very kind and I'm delighted to have an ongoing association for the time being. In fact I'm fortunate enough to carry on doing some work for them. I haven't cut myself off completely."


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Fax +49 4192 879676
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WTSH - Wirtschaftsförderung und Technologietransfer Schleswig- Holstein GmbH
Administrative information systems / software
Software for manufacturers of medical products
Since founding UNIRENT EDV-Systemtechnik GmbH in 1992, we are distributing exklusively LEADTOOLS SDks and their american Producer LEAD Technologies Inc. in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Poland.
LEADTOOLS Medical Imaging, PACS Imaging, and Medical Imaging Suite developer toolkits are some of the most heavily awarded, programmer-friendly, fully-featured and best-selling toolkits in the world. With comprehensive DICOM and PACS technology along with high-end 2D and 3D viewer controls with support for .NET, CDLL, HTML5 / JavaScript, WinRT, iOS, OS X, Android and more.
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ED Magedson – Founder
Ripoff Report
oldies.comInternet USA
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On Febuary 1, 2013, I placed an oonline order for two music books from oldies.com.
I recieved an email confirming my order and on Feb 5 received one stating the order has shipped.
I waited till March 5 and had recieved nothing. I emailed them informing of the situation (and requesting a refund) and was told to wait 90 days after which, if the order was still not received, they would investigate.
Nothing was received and I informed them of the fact. on May 11, they replied they would make an "inquirery with the shipper" (they never did tell me who the shipper was) and that it couled take up to two weeks to get a reply.
This is pretty well the last contact they have had with me. I have emailed many times requesting how the "inquirery" was progressing and requesting a refund but they refuse to answer me.
Use caution when dealing with these people.
This report was posted on Ripoff Report on 07/15/2014 11:18 AM and is a permanent record located here: http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/oldiescom/internet/oldiescom-online-store-for-music-and-related-books-west-conshohocken-pa-1162183. The posting time indicated is Arizona local time. Arizona does not observe daylight savings so the post time may be Mountain or Pacific depending on the time of year.
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Netizens everywhere are breaking out into a sweat, thanks to 19-year-old Luis Domingo Baez's recent photoshoot.
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Eat Like a Golden Bear
WVU Tech Dining Services provides a variety of culinary options in an inviting and lively environment. Our staff provides high-quality customer service and uses the finest products to ensure a memorable dining experience.
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MENUSCheck out the Montgomery campus menu: Spring 2017
Where To Eat On Campus – Montgomery
There are several locations on campus where you can grab a meal or snack.
The Bears Den
The main dining hall, known as the Bears Den, is located in the Tech Center and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Hours of Operation
Monday – Friday
7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday
Brunch 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Dinner 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
New Sandwich Ordering System
Skip the sandwich station line in the Bears Den!
Student Success Center Vending Cafe
The Student Success Center is located on the third floor of Vining Library and offers a wide range of hot and cold beverages, fresh food entrees and snacks. It's a quick and easy option on your student meal plan!
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Located in the first floor of the Leonard C. Nelson College of Engineering & Sciences Building, the Tech Spot is our newest dining venue on campus. Stop by for a cup of coffee and a sandwich, wrap or breakfast pastry!
Hours of Operation
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The Bears Den
Located on the lower floor of the Learning Resource Center, The Bears Den Beckley offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner.


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Report: Mike Pence To Make 2012 Decision Next Month
Governor of Indiana or a run for President?
If Indiana Republican Rep. Mike Pence decides to run for president, hell announce his candidacy before the end of January.
Pence's decision is probably a pretty big domino in the race. He seems to be a candidate that fits Sarah Palin's criteria, so if he runs, she may not. Obviously, the reverse is true (unless another candidate steps up). Palin's decision probably has an impact on whether or not Mike Huckabee runs, since it seems there's a good bit of overlap in their voters. Of course all of that will have an impact on Mitt Romney's chances.
Personally, I really like everything I've seen from Pence thus far. Most importantly, he manages to straddle the fiscal/social-con line very well and that's going to be a big challenge in 2012.
Still, there's a reason no one has been elected directly from the House to the White House since James A. Garfield in 1881. Name recognition, resume and lack of experience running a campaign outside a fairly compact and homogeneous area are real limitations.
Obviously technology and the 24 hour news cycle changes the name recognition issue a bit and helps to quickly build a donor network but still, it's an up hill climb. If he's going to run, he's going to need to get in earlier than Palin or Huckabee will (Mitt already seems like he's in). So yeah Congressman, the sooner the better please.
As for the race itself, I asked this question on Twitter earlier: As painful as it is to consider, aside from Pence (and he's a long shot), is there anyone the GOP can nominate that has a better chance of knocking off Obama than....Mitt Romney?
Keep in mind I'm on record saying he must not be the nominee but at this early date, and it's subject to change often, I don't see a more likely winner for us.
Here's hoping a better plan comes along like say: Pence/Bolton: The Hair and The 'Stache in '12!
Added thought/question: If Pence runs for governor of Indiana and not President, does that mean he judges Obama a likely winner in '12 and is positioning himself for '16?
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Bluth Company Universal Trade/Lineup Thread PT 2: Offseason Trade Deadline at 12am!
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Join Date: Jul 2009
Posts: 387
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Originally Posted by
Tbh I don't understand why Phoenix would make that move.
Yandle is better than Carter offensively, he would be a more effective forward than Carter (who doesn't have good face off, so the center argument doesn't work).
Phoenix is then downgrading from Summers to Voynov.
Also giving Vrbata (almost as good as Carter himself) up along with a 1st rounder for a bunch of mid grade/low end prospects who will never get above 80 OVR, which also relieves Chicago of cap space.
And Hejdik will probably retire.
Fuss man, I didn't say anything about the RNH one, but if you were on the other side of this one I think you'd prob be thinking about denying it.
I was thinking the exact same thing when looking at the trade.. The first one i dont see a problem with but the second one makes no sense at all. I still think the second trade is being done because it cant be part of the first one. If phoenix is rebuilding as he claims that he is, why is he trading a 26 year old 83ovr defensemen with incredible skating ability for almost nothing?
Just my opinion
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|Minimum Stay
|2 nights
A well maintained 2 Bedroom 1 Bath Ranch with a finished basement that has a pull out couch. Located near Seneca Lake next to Belhurst Castle and Geneva Country Club. Perfect for a couple or group looking to take the Seneca Lake Wine Tour, Parents of students at Hobart & William Smith or weddings at Belhurst Castle. Property offers free Wi-Fi, Basic cable HBO/Showtime, Netflix, Washer/Dryer and a Pool Table. Parking for up to 6 cars. Short drive to downtown Geneva or a number of wineries. The property has 2 Bedrooms and a pullout couch, sleeping 6 guests comfortably is not a problem.
I have lived in the Geneva Community my whole life. I can offer guidance on pretty much any activity a renter might want to enjoy.
Richard La Voie purchased this house in 8
With its location on Route 14 with a short drive to numerous wineries it is a perfect location for someone looking to enjoy the Seneca Lake Wine Tour or weddings at Belhurst Castle. HWS Alumni and family will find this location very convenient.
Dickie was great and informative. The house was much bigger than the pictures let on. The location was perfect for us! We were doing a wine tour for a bachelorette party and had the limo pick us up right there. I'm already planning my trip to come back!
First time users of VRBO and was very impressed. Rich's home was clean and comfortable. It was also SUPER convenient to the Belhurst Castle. Would definitely recommend anyone to stay here! Thanks again, Rich!
This property exceeded my expectations in every way. Tons of space, comfortable amenities, recreational supplies, brand new kitchen and pool table, and best of all... an incredibly kind and accommodating owner. Will most certainly be back the next time I find myself in the area and suggest all to do the same.
A few Hobart alumni came back and stayed here for the weekend. Great distance to HWS, downtown Geneva, and Seneca Lake wineries. The accommodations were tremendous; plenty of sleeping space, great living area, and we capitalized on the pool/ping pong table in the basement. Rich was very accessible, and getting into the property could not have been easier. We all enjoyed our visit and would HIGHLY RECOMMEND staying here to anyone interested in visiting the Geneva area, whether HWS or not.
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|Monthly *
|Event Price
My Standard Rate
2 night minimum stay
for 2 nights
|Pet Fee
|Refundable Damage Deposit
* Approximate monthly price. Actual pricing will depend on the days of the month you stay.


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New at BESA Center
Israel's Inelegant Options in Judea and Samaria: Withdrawal, Annexation, and Conflict Management
In advance of the fiftieth anniversary of the Six Day War, Maj. Gen. (res.) Yaakov Amidror examines the two basic approaches to resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict: Establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel, and application of Israeli sovereignty over Judea and Samaria (the West Bank) and the creation of a bi-national state (in practice).
Professor Efraim Karsh Becomes Director of the BESA Center
The Executive Council of the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Efraim Karsh as the new center director. He succeeds Professor Efraim Inbar, who concludes a 25-year tenure as the center's founding director.
The BESA Center Bulletin, November 2016
A summary of the center's activities in 2016, including seven conferences, eight guest lectures, 60 new publications, and more. Prof. Efraim Karsh, the new director of the center, takes his piercing pen to the Oslo peace process – "one of the worst-ever calamities to have hit Israelis and Palestinians."
Australia and Israel Should Develop Closer Ties in Defense and Foreign Affairs
A study by APSI and BESA Center experts considers common strategic interests and suggests security cooperation between Canberra and Jerusalem.
Israeli Palestinian Policy – Whereto?
Yaakov Amidror, Hillel Frisch, Gershon Hacohen, Efraim Inbar, Eran Lerman and Max Singer discuss Israel's policies on the Palestinian issue, in a post-Obama and post-Abbas era.
In Memoriam: Muzi Wertheim
The Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies mourns the passing in August of Mr. Muzi Wertheim, one of the titans of modern Israeli industry and a founder of the Center for Strategic Studies at Bar-Ilan University. He was 86.
Recent Conferences
The Trump Upheaval
Shortly after the US presidential election in November, experts met the BESA Center to analyze the reasons for, and international implications of, Donald Trump's triumph, and to dissect the "Yom Kippur" of the liberal elite and media.
Strategic Challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean
On February 21, 2017, for the second consecutive year, the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies and B'nai B'rith International jointly held an international conference on Strategic Challenges in the Eastern Mediterranean. The event, which took place at the Begin-Sadat Center, involved the participation of experts from Greece, Russia, Britain, Turkey, Albania, the US, and Israel.
New Paradigms in Peace Diplomacy
Israel's Inelegant Options in Judea and Samaria: Withdrawal, Annexation, and Conflict Management
In advance of the fiftieth anniversary of the Six Day War, Maj. Gen. (res.) Yaakov Amidror examines the two basic approaches to resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict: Establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel, and application of Israeli sovereignty over Judea and Samaria (the West Bank) and the creation of a bi-national state (in practice).
Occupation Is Not the Problem
The proposition that "occupation" is to blame for Palestinian terrorism defies history, reality, and logic. Israel's control of the Palestinian population of the West Bank and Gaza has been virtually nonexistent for twenty years, ever since the 1995 interim agreement and the 1997 Hebron redeployment. Palestinian terrorism has increased not in response to the "occupation," but in response to its ending.
Why Israel Should Not Adopt Unilateral Initiatives
The moribund state of the peace process has prompted the suggestion of two opposing unilateral "solutions": either Israeli withdrawal from, or the annexation of, parts of the West Bank. Neither would be wise policy.
Israel's Palestinian Dilemmas
Israel has gradually come to realize that the Palestinians are neither a partner for peace nor capable of establishing a viable state. Therefore, Israel's recent governments have adopted a de facto conflict-management approach, rather than a conflict-resolution strategy. This prompts several questions. Should Israel speak explicitly about the dim prospects of a two-state solution, or play along with the illusory preferences and pretensions of the international community? Should Israel apply more "stick" than "carrot" to the hostile Palestinian Authority? Would the collapse of the Palestinian Authority serve Israel's interests? And how diplomatically active should Israel be on the Palestinian issue?
Israel-Palestinian Conflict
No One-Shot Solution to the Hamas Challenge
The use of massive force in a "once-and-for-all" military operation cannot purge Hamas from Gaza because it has deep roots in Palestinian society. Israel's only sensible option is to continue to employ a militarily modest and politically calibrated "mowing the grass" strategy, which is designed to occasionally knock back Hamas military capabilities and enhance deterrence for an admittedly limited period.
The ABCs of Judea and Samaria: Towards Breakdown?
The three types of area jurisdiction in Judea and Samaria (the West Bank) – A, B and C – were meant as a short-term fix until a real Israeli-Palestinian peace accord could be crafted. More than 20 years later, both sides have broadly infringed on these parameters. Israel regularly penetrates Area A for security reasons, while the PA (with EU support) is building illegally and dangerously in key parts of Area C that are critical to Israel. Israel should halt this encroachment with determination.
Hamas: A Social Welfare Government or War Machine?
Hamas prides itself on having a reputation dedicated to the public welfare of Palestinians and for providing a variety of social services. The following study evaluates the veracity of this claim. The Hamas government in Gaza acts as another case study that highlights the disastrous leadership which plagued the Palestinian national movement since its inception.
Cool Heads Needed in the Fight against Palestinian Terrorism
While there is no doubt that Israel is facing a difficult security situation, the surge in Palestinian violence does not pose any existential threat to Israel. Israel has weathered longer and harsher waves of terrorism. Israeli leaders must keep things in proportion, and reject calls for "massive retaliation" that will not truly improve security and could make things worse.
The Lies of Saeb Erekat: How Palestinian Propaganda Warps the Truth and Undermines Peace Efforts
An incendiary propaganda document replete with blatant lies and utter distortions of history penned by Saeb Erekat, recently sent to foreign media, exposes the futility of the Palestinian mindset, and reveals just how far the Palestinian leadership is from accepting the premises necessary for true peace with Israel.
Setting the Record Straight: Hajj Amin and the Nazis
Legacies of Hajj Amin al-Husseini's work are still with us. The broadcasts of Radio Zeissen, the Mufti's propaganda station, resonate in the 1988 Hamas covenant, and indeed still reverberate throughout our region. So do the recurrent references to Nazi imagery and texts in the Palestinian public domain. To demand a proper historical reckoning is therefore not to "demonize" the Palestinian people but to treat them, for a change, as adults capable of coping with a culture of responsibility.
Myths, Facts, and Wishful Thinking in Responding to Palestinian Violence
The recent wave of terrorism has seen illusion peddlers take center stage. While some are true believers, others seek only to promote personal, political, potentially dangerous agendas. Regional realities mandate a different, more prudent approach.
The Palestinian Victimhood Narrative as an Obstacle to Peace
The false Palestinian narrative of one-sided victimhood is a major hindrance to all efforts in the direction of Israeli-Palestinian peace. Global actors need to help the Palestinians move beyond wallowing in self-pity and rituals of bashing Israel, and towards difficult compromises with Israel.
The Myth of Palestinian Centrality
The "Palestinian cause" has been at the forefront of discourse on the Middle East for nearly a century. It has long formed the primary common concern of pan-Arab solidarity and its most effective rallying cry, yet neither the Arab states nor Palestinian leaders have truly acted in the interest of the "liberation of Palestine."
Mowing the Grass: Israel's Strategy for Protracted Intractable Conflict
"Mowing the Grass" is Israel's strategy for a protracted intractable conflict. Only after showing restraint in its military responses does Israel act to destroy enemy capabilities, hoping that occasional large-scale operations also have a temporary deterrent effect to create quiet along its borders.
Confronting Iran
The Iran Deal One Year Later: The Fuse Is Still Burning
One year later, it can clearly be said that the nuclear talks reversed power relations in Iran's favor, with the US forfeiting a historic opportunity to dismantle Iran's nuclear capability. Instead, the agreement left Iran with its full capability concerning enriched uranium – only at a reduced scale and subject to questionable monitoring. When the deal expires, Iran will have the ability to set up an extremely fast enrichment system, and its ability to reach the quantity of material required for a nuclear weapon will have increased tenfold. Iran also can continue to develop heavy long-distance missiles – without global opposition and without sanctions.
A Year After the JCPoA: An Interim Report on the Nuclear Deal with Iran
A year after it was finalized, the nuclear deal with Iran has clearly made the region and the world more dangerous, notwithstanding the temporary respite won in Iran's pursuit of a nuclear weapon. The Obama administration's advocacy of warmer relations with Tehran appears totally removed from realities on the ground. Iran is using its new legal position to obscure, rather than clarify, past activities and present inventories; work on ballistic missiles and on the acquisition of materials for Iran's non-conventional weapons arsenal continues apace; repression has worsened; regional subversion is at its peak; and exterminatory positions towards Israel are openly put forward. The JCPoA has in no way moderated Iran's stance, nor made it a legitimate member of the community of nations.
The Vienna Accord Only Postpones Confrontation with Iran
The Vienna agreement has made the situation more complex and dangerous, not less so. The conflict that will ensue will take place in conditions far worse (from a Western perspective) than before the agreement, pitting the West (and/or Israel) against a much-stronger Iran.
Converging Enemy Threats to Israel
Israeli strategic planners must beware the converging twin hazards of Iranian nuclear weapons and Palestinian statehood.
Israel Cannot Accept the Emerging Accord between the US and Iran
An agreement that would allow Iran to maintain a full nuclear fuel cycle would be far worse than no agreement, and could force Israel to respond independently
Islamic State Should be Wiped Out
Prof. Efraim Inbar is wrong to argue that the West is better off with Islamic State organization maintaining its caliphate. On the contrary: Defeating IS and the horror it perpetuates requires nothing less than the elimination of its caliphate. Through control of territory, IS is able to inspire and train recruits, to direct terrorist attacks, and to demonstrate the West's inability to eradicate a pressing threat.
Raqqa Delenda Est: Why Baghdadi's "Caliphate" Should Be Destroyed
While Iran remains the greatest threat to the region, the continued existence of IS fortifies rather than enervates Iran's quest for hegemony. The destruction of IS should be the first stage in a campaign designed ultimately to isolate and contain Iran.
The Destruction of Islamic State is a Strategic Mistake
The West should seek the further weakening of Islamic State, but not its destruction. A weak but functioning IS can undermine the appeal of the caliphate among radical Muslims; keep bad actors focused on one another rather than on Western targets; and hamper Iran's quest for regional hegemony.
The ISIS Challenge in Syria; Implications for Israeli Security
A study of the strategic goals and military performance of ISIS; the relative strength of its opponents; the reactions of those opponents, especially Iran, to possible ISIS gains; and the threat to Israeli national security posed by ISIS. As long as Iran does not infringe on Israel's "red lines" (regarding the transfer of advanced weaponry and terrorist bases on its borders) Israel should remain militarily neutral in the conflict with ISIS.
Libya: The Next Frontier?
As Islamic State (IS) continues to suffer reverses in Syria and Iraq, great pressure can and should be brought to bear against it in Libya, where IS dominance has the potential to threaten vital Western interests. Forceful foreign intervention may be required to protect the central Mediterranean from IS encroachment.
Does ISIS Pose a WMD Threat?
The risk of ISIS employing chemical, biological, and radiological warfare agents is real. In fact, ISIS already has attacked with chemical agents. ISIS has mobilized Iraqi and Syrian scientists who are assisting in the development of chemical weapons, particularly nerve and mustard gas, alongside foreign experts. It also has reportedly moved its labs, experts, and materials from Iraq to Syria.
How Dangerous is ISIS to Israel?
It is misplaced to view ISIS as posing an independent serious strategic challenge. Several analyses of the threat ISIS poses to Israel seem to be unnecessary alarmist.
Syrian Civil War
Chemical Weapons Could Change the Game in Syria
The Syrian regime unleashed full military grade chemical weapons against IS several weeks ago, a move that occasioned little response from the wider world. The assault demonstrated that the dismantling of the Syrian chemical arsenal has not been fulfilled. If repeated, the attack might precipitate a dangerous escalation of the conflict in which IS accelerates its own pursuit of WMDs.
The Syrian Civil War: An Interim Balance Sheet
The desire of the international community to end the Syrian civil war is offset by the inability of any individual party to enforce its preferred solution. The conflict, which is likely to continue for some time, has solidified the centrality of Russia and Iran in regional affairs. Israel's options are limited.
Syria's Unraveling Gives Way to New Regional Order
Russia's increased deployment in Syria, and Iran and Hezbollah's tightening grip on areas just north of the Israel-Syria border, may soon change regional realities irrevocably. More than ever, Israel must remain determined in its efforts to prevent Hezbollah from obtaining game-changing weapons.
Russian Ambitions, and Israeli Opportunities, in the Partition of Syria
There is a contradiction between the ultimate purposes of Russia and Iran in their intervention in Syria. Putin's concern for Assad's survival could give Israel some policy leverage, if Israel astutely navigates its way through the situation. This means that Israel should not be tempted to support Saudi-led efforts to unseat Assad or otherwise bring about a decisive outcome in Syria's civil war.
Syria's Chemical Weapon Obfuscations
The reluctance of the international community to act forcibly regarding undeclared Syrian chemical weapon capabilities is a very bad sign. It raises doubts about full implementation of intelligence-gathering operations and effective monitoring of the Iranian nuclear program.
Line in the Sand
The strike against Hezbollah last week clarifies to Israel's enemies that there are red lines, and anyone crossing them must take into account Israel's response.
Why the Hezbollah Clash Matters
As the Assad regime is losing its grip over the country, Iran and Hezbollah gain a greater ability to establish a new base of operations against Israel in southern Syria.
The Return of the Russian Bear to the Middle East
This study looks at the aggressive new posture in Russian foreign policy under President Vladimir Putin, in the wake of its intervention in Syria and the Crimean peninsula.
Putin's "Sacred Mission" in Syria
Russia's intervention in Syria cannot be fully explained by strategic or economic factors. Russian political culture, which has been permeated since the fifteenth century by a messianic vision of apocalyptic redemption, has long been a significant guiding factor in the decision-making of Russia's leaders.
The Russians Are Leaving Syria. Why the Surprise?
The partial departure of Russian forces from Syria reflects Vladimir Putin's achievement of several well-defined goals, including the stabilization of Bashar al-Assad and the bolstering of Russia's global diplomatic position. The resultant balance of power in Syria gives Israel time and space with which to bolster its defenses.
Russian Ambitions, and Israeli Opportunities, in the Partition of Syria
There is a contradiction between the ultimate purposes of Russia and Iran in their intervention in Syria. Putin's concern for Assad's survival could give Israel some policy leverage, if Israel astutely navigates its way through the situation. This means that Israel should not be tempted to support Saudi-led efforts to unseat Assad or otherwise bring about a decisive outcome in Syria's civil war.
The Russian-Iranian Gambit in Syria
The Russian-Iranian gambit in Syria will only inflame the volatile situation in the war-torn country. Sunni-Alawite animosity runs too deep to foster any hope for compromise. Israel must remain vigilant, and prevent terrorists from getting advanced weapons.
US-Israel Relations
Implications of US Disengagement from the Middle East
The adverse implications of US withdrawal from the Middle East are manifold, including: the acceleration of Tehran's drive to regional hegemony, the palpable risk of regional nuclear proliferation following the JCPOA, the spread of jihadist Islam, and Russia's growing penetration of the region. Manifest US weakness is also bound to have ripple effects far beyond the Middle East.
Trends in US Congressional Support for Israel
While congressional support for Israel has historically transcended the partisan divide, Republicans and Democrats are growing less cooperative with regard to the means by which to express that support. The authors term this development as "congressional dysergia." Tensions between the executive branch and Congress are growing as well, as exhibited in conflicts between the Republican-dominated Congress and President Obama.
Consequences of American Retreat from the Middle East
The American retreat from the Middle East signals weakness, and encourages an Iranian quest for regional hegemony that was bolstered by the P5+1 nuclear deal. The most dangerous consequence of current American foreign policy in the region is the likelihood of nuclear proliferation. Moreover, the current American approach allows for Russian encroachment in the region, which enhances the power of the radical axis led by Iran. It also opens the way for the 'Finlandization' of the Gulf and the Caspian basin by Iran. US weakness in the Middle East inevitably will have ripple effects in other parts of the globe.
Obama and Israel: The Final Year
Israel needs a more active and aggressive diplomatic strategy to thwart what seems to be an escalating campaign of pressure from the international community on the Palestinian issue; a campaign that President Obama can be expected to lead in his final months in office.
Turkish-Israeli Relations
The Turks in Syria and the Kurds in "Rojava": Prelude to Tragedy or Reasonable Compromise?
As Turkish forces pursue their long-overdue campaign in northern Syria, it is increasingly clear that their main goal is to reduce or destroy the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, largely Kurdish in composition, rather than fight IS.
Regional Implications of the Failed Coup d'État and Purges in Turkey
The fallout in terms of the regional balance of power from the failed coup d'état is bound to be significant. There is little to cheer, even if the timely conclusion of Israel's reconciliation with Turkey has so far spared Israel the traditional accusation of being behind the plot (and may even put Israeli diplomacy in a position to be of help in reducing the flames).
Erdogan's Turkey Takes a Fork in the Road
The failed military coup in Turkey was most likely the swan song of the country's secular endeavor. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan now has a firmer hold on power, despite external and internal conflicts. Israel should remain wary of taking sides.
The Turkish-Israeli Reconciliation: A Balance Sheet
The Turkish-Israeli reconciliation – while raising legitimate moral questions – yielded terms very much in Israel's favor, compared to where things stood recently. Legal threats have been averted, Turkish pressure over the siege of Gaza has been lifted, and the prospects for full Israeli participation in NATO activities are significantly brighter.
The Importance of Interests in Israel-Turkey Reconciliation
The Israel-Turkey reconciliation deal boils down to mutually beneficial interests; not trust, and certainly not sympathy. This deal will bolster Israel's security as well as its international standing, making the price worthwhile.
Turkey – America's Unacknowledged Problem
Turkey is formally a NATO ally. But Erdogan-led Turkey has not behaved as an ally or a friend of the US for years. It is a mystery why the Obama Administration refuses to acknowledge this.
Obama's Best Friend? The Alarming Evolution of US-Turkish Relations
Shifts in Turkey's domestic political orientation have led to a change in Ankara's perceptions of its foreign policy roles and capabilities. The US has misunderstood and largely ignored this shift, failing to understand the implications of Turkey's transformation under the AKP. A strong and comprehensive policy towards Turkey is long overdue.
Turkish Foreign Policy in the Twenty-First Century
Inspired by Foreign Minister Davutoğlu's Strategic Depth doctrine, Turkey has pursued a more active role in the Middle East and surrounding region. Bucking the trend of Turkey's secular Kemalist legacy, the government seeks to revive the glory of the Ottoman Empire and establish itself as a global power. The study examines the reasons behind Turkey's shift in policy, discusses Turkey's role in the "Arab Spring," and assesses regional and global ramifications.
Eastern Mediterranean
The Mediterranean as a Strategic Environment: Learning a New Geopolitical Language
This study argues that it is time to let go of the old colonial concept, the "Middle East," and re-learn to think in Mediterranean terms. The Eastern Mediterranean has become a key area for global security, with two dangerous challenges, and an important opportunity. The challenges are the regional refugee crisis due to chaotic conditions in Syria, Libya and beyond; and the growing hold upon Mediterranean shores of totalitarian Islamism in its various forms. The opportunity lies in energy cooperation between Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Greece and Cyprus (with a role for Italy). This is not an effort to isolate Turkey, but rather to create a regional balance of power, in which Turkey could also play a role once that country's leadership matures and moderates.
A New Geopolitical Bloc is Born in the Eastern Mediterranean: Israel, Greece and Cyprus
From an Israeli perspective, the recent strengthening of alliance ties with Greece and Cyprus constitutes a win-win situation. A new geopolitical bloc is emerging that has military and political significance, and stands as a counterweight to Turkish ambitions. Stronger Israeli relations with Greece and Cyprus may also serve to encourage Turkey to show more flexibility in negotiations regarding normalization of ties between Ankara and Jerusalem.
Israel's Emerging Relations in the Eastern Mediterranean
The flourishing new relationship between Israel and her two Hellenic neighbors in the eastern Mediterranean – Greece and Cyprus – is important on its own merits. But equally important, the Israel-Greece-Cyprus alliance seeks to block Turkey's ambitions of regional hegemony, while at the same time offering Ankara a key place in the new Mediterranean political order, if and when she comes to her senses.
Israel-Greece Relations
This study focuses on the strengthening of Israeli-Greek relations, especially since 2010. The enhanced ties between the two countries allows for the emergence of a new pro-Western geopolitical bloc in the eastern Mediterranean. (Hebrew)
The New Strategic Equation in the Eastern Mediterranean
For centuries, the Mediterranean Sea was the main arena for international interactions, before it was replaced by the Atlantic Ocean and subsequently by the Pacific. Nevertheless, as the historical meeting place between East and West, the East Mediterranean was the focus of significant superpower competition during the Cold War and still has strategic significance.
Security in the Gulf
Sailing through the Straits: The Meaning for Israel of Restored Saudi Sovereignty over Tiran and Sanafir Islands
The fact that Saudi Arabia has now undertaken to uphold in practice the obligations assumed by Egypt under its peace treaty with Israel, means that Israel's place in the region is no longer perceived by Arab leader Saudi Arabia as an anomaly to be corrected. This is a far cry from normalization of Saudi relations with Israel, but it is nevertheless a welcome ray of light, demonstrating the benefits of cooperation and coordination in a region beset by violence.
Domestic and Regional Implications of Escalated Saudi-Iran Conflict
By executing a prominent Shiite leader, the Saudi King and his son the Deputy Crown Prince sent a strong signal to Iran, to the kingdom's beleaguered Shiite minority, and to the world. To its Iranian Shiite rival, Sunni Riyadh was saying that it would absolutely not tolerate intervention in its internal affairs. It was telling its own Shiites that it would not allow "Arab Spring"-like dissent. And to the world, Salman and Muhammad were signaling that the Saudis were growing into their new role as a defender and leader of the Sunni Muslim countries; especially since the Obama administration appears to be siding with Iran.
Saudi Succession: The Sudayris Return
The passing of King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia and the smooth accession of King Salman marks the return of the Sudaryi family to leadership and the eventual rise of the grandchildren of founder King Abd al-Aziz
Missile Defense
The New Threat of Very Accurate Missiles
Precision-guided medium-range missiles, a relatively new technology, are beginning to proliferate in the Middle East. When they work as designed, they can deliver half a ton of high explosive to within meters of their targets. This means that for many targets, they are almost as effective as nuclear weapons.
Israel's Air and Missile Defense During the 2014 Gaza War
The Israeli Air Defense Command deployed an efficient defense array against the rocket launchers in the last operation in the Gaza Strip. The operation also uncovered the gaps in the Israeli defense system that require corrective actions.
The Future of Egypt
Egypt and the Threat of Islamic Terror
Egypt's new rulers are faced with a terror problem emanating from the Sinai, led by radical jihad groups. The US and international community must support the Egyptian regime to prevent Egypt from turning into the next Syria.
Welcome Back to Mubarak's Egypt
The latest chapter in the Egyptian Revolution is nothing more than a return to the military dictatorship of Hosni Mubarak. Egypt's troubles may only be beginning.
Egypt's Army Will Not Intervene
Hopes or expectations that the Egyptian military will intervene in the deteriorating political and security crisis are probably misguided.
Morsi's Egypt and Ahmadinejad's Iran: Much Ado Over Next to Nothing
Morsi's hosting Ahmadinejad signals a potential improvement in ties between Egypt and Iran. This move will backfire, as ultimately Morsi needs the US and Gulf countries more than they need him.
The Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt and Its True Intentions Towards Israel
The Brotherhood sees Israel as a strategic threat and has aggressively lobbied Morsi to strengthen Egyptian military presence in Sinai. The anti-Israel rhetoric emanating from senior Brotherhood leaders must be taken seriously.


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Obama: Any Misconduct at VA Will be Punished
Barack Obama delivers a statement after meeting with Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki at the White House in Washington, DC, May 21, 2014. Veterans have had to wait months to see a doctor at some hospitals, and allegations have arisen that administrators at a VA hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, covered up the delays there. As many as 40 patients were reported to have died while waiting to be seen by a VA doctor. (PHOTO: JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images)
President Barack Obama said in a news conference today that if there's misconduct at the Department of Veterans Affairs, it will be punished.
Obama said if the allegations of misconduct prove to be true, it is dishonorable and disgraceful. He says, "I will not tolerate it, period."
The president said won't stand for people covering up long wait times or cooking the books. He says no Americans should.
Up to 40 veterans may have died because of scheduling problems at the VA health clinic in Phoenix. There are growing concerns that problems may extend far beyond Phoenix.
But Obama is also asking for patience while investigators get to the bottom of what happened.
Obama spoke after an Oval Office meeting with VA Secretary Eric Shinseki and top aide Rob Nabors.
The president expressed continued confidence in Shinseki, a retired Army general. Obama has directed Nabors to help the VA conduct the comprehensive review.
The President acknowledged that the VA has been struggling to keep up with a growing backlog after a decade of war in Iraq and Afghanistan.


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Armed and Indifferent
Justin paused just inside the door and surveyed his surroundings. He'd never been in a gun shop before - nor had he felt the desire to seek one out - but somehow it was exactly like he imagined it would be. Maybe he'd been watching too many crime dramas on TV.
The lighting was poor, everything was behind locked Plexiglass, and the whole place reeked of stale sweat and old cigarettes. Assault rifles lined the wall to his left, while handguns of all shapes and sizes observed him from the right. He had no idea there was so much variety.
As he made his way to the counter his cell phone began vibrating again. He didn't bother taking it out; instead he placed his briefcase on the counter and waited for Hank or whoever to show up. He glanced at the surveillance camera hanging from the ceiling and did his best to look like someone who had no intention of robbing a bank.
After a few minutes had passed, a man joined him from the back storage room. An unkempt, graying beard hung from his cheeks, his eyes were nearly obscured by thick wrinkles, most of his hair had migrated to the back of his head, and he smelled like he'd spent the day rubbing cigarettes all over his clothes. Justin began to second-guess his decision to take up the habit.
"What can I do for ya?" the man asked before turning his head slightly and spitting a thick, greenish-black substance on the floor. He examined it for a moment before returning his gaze to Justin.
"I'd like to buy a gun," he replied. "Or two."
"Well then, I suspect you've come to the right place. Care to narrow that down a bit? 'Gun' is a bit vague, unless you plan on spending a week perusing my entire selection."
"No," Justin said quickly. "What do you suggest in the way of a reliable handgun for a beginner. Doesn't need to be fancy, but I'd like it to look intimidating."
"Girlfriend trouble, huh? I know the type. Waving a gun around tends to straighten them right up, heh heh. All of a sudden they're looking at ya with those big eyes, willing to do whatever their big man wants, ready to -"
"What about that one?" Justin cut in, pointing to a weapon that had caught his eye on the way to the counter.
"Good choice, that." The man paused to spit again before coming around the counter. Justin tried to give him some space without actually taking a step back. "That, young man, is a Mark VII Desert Eagle. Here, let me get the .357 out for ya. You're gonna love how it feels in your hand."
"It's heavier than I thought it would be," Justin said, turning the gun this way and that. He tried to imagine pointing it at someone, demanding they get on the floor. Sweat began to collect in his armpits.
"Just a smidge under four pounds," the man said with a smile that revealed yellowed teeth. "I've got some targets in the basement if ya wanna fire off a couple rounds."
"That won't be necessary. I'll take two. And some ammo."
"You got a permit to carry concealed weapons?" the man asked over his shoulder as he retrieved a second gun.
"No. How much will that cost me?"
"Hundred bucks, but I don't sell 'em. You'll have to run down to the police station and get one. But I don't mind holding these babies for ya."
"How about I just buy it from you," Justin said as he opened his briefcase.
"Like I said, I don't sell 'em." The man watched as Justin placed thirty twenty-dollar bills in a pile on the counter, one at a time. "I don't think ya understand." Another five hundred dollars appeared next to the first pile. "Listen, man." Another five hundred. His tongue ran over his cracked lips. "Maybe I've got one in the back. Let me go take a look."
As it turned out, he did in fact have one. Justin ignored the sound of a photocopier at work and the black outlines around where his name and other information were to be entered and placed the guns, permit, and bullets into his briefcase. The man gave him a Desert Eagle owner's manual to peruse at his leisure and he added this too before snapping it closed.
"Good luck with the little lady," the man called after him as Justin left the store.
Back outside, Justin took in the relatively fresh air and tried to decide what his next move was. He knew he should have felt outrage or sadness or something at how easy that had been. Maybe a thought or two about the power of money or the state of humanity. But he felt nothing and didn't spare it a thought.
Before he could choose a direction, his cell phone went off again. He answered it without looking at the display.
"Justy! I've been trying to get a hold of you all morning! You had me worried sick."
"Hi Kelly." Justin swallowed with some difficulty. "I've been busy."
"So how did your appointment go? Did the test results show anything?"
"Listen," he said as he began walking. "This isn't working. It hasn't been working for a while now and we both know it." Is that true? "I think it's time we go our separate ways."
"What are you talking about, Justy? I -"
"Please don't call me that."
"But I've been calling you that for more than a year!"
"And I've hated it the whole time." That is definitely true. "We're done, okay?"
"Oh god, it's the results, isn't it?" A sob chased her words down the line to his ear.
"It was good while it lasted," Justin said, his voice flat.
"Oh no… it's cancer, isn't it?"
"Good-bye, Kelly."
Justin snapped the phone shut and turned it off. He was tempted to just throw it away but decided to hold on to it for a little longer. It would come in handy when he decided to call the office and tell them he was quitting. Or maybe he would just show up and do that in person.
With or without the guns?
His thoughts returned to his girlfriend of nearly two years. Former girlfriend, he reminded himself. He pulled out his wallet and found the picture of her he had carried around for the last few months. Kelly was smiling seductively, a glass of wine in one hand, her dark hair lit by candlelight. That picture used to make his heart stop.
But now? Nothing.
He flicked the picture away and continued walking, not bothering to look back as it fluttered down to land between an abandoned sneaker and an empty beer can. If the conversation had not caused any emotions to bubble to the surface, at least it had provided him with a destination.
He was going to need somewhere to spend the night.


text:
Address:Swallows Nest40 Bromsgrove RoadRomsleyHalesowenWest MidlandsB62 0LF
The Swallow's Nest is well known in Halesowen and across the West Midlands as a fine country pub. A popular pub restaurant famous for great food, we are in Romsley, tucked away in the countryside near the Clent Hills. There is always a warm welcome with roaring log fires, freshly prepared food, a great selection of real ales and a diverse wine menu for you to choose from.