Hey there everyone! This is my first ever fanfic, and it was mostly a spur of the moment thing. I'm still really new to writing so I apologize If this isn't the kind of quality you would expect.
Please let me know If I make any canon mistakes and I'll be sure to fix them either in edits or any upcoming parts I make! This first chapter is more character establishing than anything, so I hope you all enjoy it!
Also, I hope you enjoy the little tool cards I made! I plan on making more in the future so people don't have to look up stuff for this story, also, let me know if you have any questions about anything!
Thank you u/SpacePaladin15 for creating this setting!

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[Memory transcript)
[Subject: Krittoh, Venlil Forestry technician at Bridger-Teton National Forest.]
To think, just a few [years] ago, I was a bookish shut-in who never dreamed about stepping outside, much less moving to a different planet.
Now, I stood at about 11,000 feet of elevation on a planet 16 lightyears away from Venlil prime, Hiking across a ridge with a Pulaski on my shoulder, and listening to my Human sing about a “big Rock Candy Mountain”
I was whistling along occasionally, but my gaze was mostly glued to the magnificent scenery that surrounded me. The mountains rising above the planet, scraping the clouds with their timbered granite peaks. The Gros Ventre range stretched as far as my sight would reach before being obscured by the blue tinge of the planet's atmosphere. Hmph, no fair.
It was so beautiful, so amazing. a claw ago I stood before the Gros Ventre Wilderness boundary with Marshal by my side, eye affixed on the big sign with bold letters that read “This is GRIZZLY BEAR country!”. Of course, Marshal wasn't phased at all! I shouldn't have been either, I work here! But I was still absolutely horrified.
In general, this whole career path has been in the face of my entire species. As a Venlil, it's been drilled into me that I am prey, weak, vulnerable, and tasty to all things that have pointed teeth. It's certainly not as bad sense the fall of the federation, but it's an idea that persists even today in Venlil society.
Yet here I am, on my way to fight an all-consuming force of nature that on all accounts could be compared to a predator. The nature of fire is to consume, and it is very good at it. I have no hatred for fire, as I've since learned that fire creates just as much as it destroys.
“How ya' doing back there?” The voice of my human broke my thoughts, I shook my head and turned my right eye to meet his. He stood tall and straight despite his enormous pack and pick mattock on his shoulder. He adjusted the old brown wide brimmed hat he always wore in the backcountry. “taking in the scenery?” The human partook in the view himself. “Beautiful, ain't it.”
“I don't have the words to describe…” I said, adjusting by bifocals and shifting the smaller pack on my back, along with switching which shoulder I rested my Pulaski on. I took my time to survey the primeval landscape that dominated here in Bridger-Teton National Forest. The human let out a few quick exhales through his nose as though it were a laugh escaping.
“We gotta keep on going, we should see the smoke on the other side of this ridge” Marshal whipped out his phone and checked something, likely his downloaded map. “You need a snack?”
I flicked my tail in the affirmative, taking off my pack and quickly going for the front compartment where I kept all of the goodies. I pulled out an Applesauce squeeze pouch for myself, and a “Monster” sized “Slim Jim” that had been folded to fit inside for Marshal. “Here” I tossed it to him. “so you can satiate your predatory instincts.”
“Ohhoho! Now!” he caught the meat stick and tore open one end of the plastic packaging with his teeth. “thank goodness!” He took a bite “I was just thinking about eating you, good thing you came prepared”
I whistled through my teeth at his reply, squeezing some apple-y goodness into my mouth. “Hmph” I verbalized through a mouthful, before I swallowed. “Sometimes I wonder if I should let your instincts kick in, maybe it would be fun~”
“you've got an interesting idea of fun.” Marshal shot back a smirk at me, “I like it!”
It wasn't long before we crested the ridge we were on, and there it was, a thick plume of smoke drifting lazily into the atmosphere before dispersing in the clouds, this was the fire we came to see, the “Crystal Valley” Fire.
The fire had started about 7 hours ago, and was picked up on the forest service's fire detection software a little later. the last fire of the season, and a pretty big one at that. Procedure usually indicated identifying the cause of the fire, if it were natural, it could be managed and allowed to burn. This one was quickly deduced to be a man-made fire, so the only option was total suppression.
“Bet the smokejumpers are already down there, probably building a fireline-” Marshal pointed to a well-timbered spot in the valley “right there. If I had to guess, Bastion is probably going to-”
Suddenly, the radio on my packstrap came to life! Well, almost. The voice on the other end was clinical in its report, almost bored. It began with the current weather conditions; hot and dry, I knew that much… the direction and speed of the Wind, and the locales most at risk. Jackson, Wyoming. The National Elk refuge. Grand Teton National park.
“Yadda yadda, let me see that, would ya Critter?” Marshal reached his hand towards me, his fingers flexing in a “gimme” fashion. I obliged without much complaint, I didn't have much of a desire to listen to it. I was well aware of what I was up against.
I remember the first time I laid my hands on my radio, I was ecstatic, it took everything in me not to bleat with joy! It made me feel like a professional, it's primitive design sparked my love of vintage things! I “geeked out”, in Marshal's own words. I've since gotten used to it, and it's just another tool that the Forest Service expects you to take care of.
Oh, I took care of my things! As a forestry technician, my duties are varied, typically having to do wth maintenance. Yes, I've had a couple cool experiences with wildlife, and getting my red card was a huge milestone, but usually my work consists of fuels reduction or maintaining historic sites around the Jackson ranger district.
I sort of zoned out as Marshal messed with my radio, I had my mind on other things. While we hiked I dug around in my bag and pulled out my current reading material. I held the book in my paws. It was brand new, only ever having been opened by me a day earlier.
“ “Fire Season: Field notes from a Wilderness lookout” by Philip Connors. Forward and Venlang translation by: Tresta “Forester””. This must be the latest book translated by Tresta! I picked it up just under a week ago from a bookstore in Afton, Wyoming. And it was the first bookstore I had ever seen on earth display Venlang copies of books straight on the shelf! Hell, they had a whole section dedicated to books translated by Tresta, as well as a few of her own books translated into English.
I had almost every one of her translated and original books. I knew a lot about her, it's hard not to in this profession, and given that I'm working in the very same forest that she did! Tresta was the first Venlil to ever work with the US forest service (in none other than Bridger-Teton national forest!) she was also the first to ever complete the pack test and get her Red card, a feat of endurance worthy of human envy in some cases. She was a very vocal naturalist, and many of her books centered around it.
Her response to the Federation attack on earth was her book “On the nature of predators, and the right to existence.”. It was perhaps the most striking piece of literature I had ever read. From her interviews I gathered that it took her one hundred and eleven tries to get it published, and about twelve of those tries almost ended with the publisher trying to get her committed to a facility. Surprisingly low, all things considered.
Tresta's works and translations have sense seemed to penetrate the minds of the Venlil who have read them. The swath of human conservation literature from “A sand county almanac” to “Wilderness and the American mind” have created a vocal group of Venlil who are eager to change things on the homefront. Large swaths of undeveloped land on Venlil prime have since been targeted for potential protection, along with the creatures within it, even the predators.
Tresta herself has proposed the idea of a Xeno-exchange conservation corps program akin to the ones that already exist on earth, a good way for young people of any species to visit another world and work on environmental and sustainable agricultural projects. I wonder how well those are going, another thing to look up when all of this is finished.
My train of thought was interrupted when I heard Marshal say his call code over the radio, he wasn't going to let Sébastien know that he's out here, is he?
My question was answered in less than a moment.
“Marshal Motherfuckn’ Mason” I heard the human voice over the radio, a tone indicating some slight agitation, I didn't think Sébastien would be too pleased with Marshal being out here, but somehow I don't think he was surprised.
“it's nice to talk to you Bastion, I ain't that far away now, you can rest easy! Do you copy?” Marshal snickered to himself, seeming quite pleased with himself.
“i Copy. You know you aren't supposed to be out here, Reggie is going to flip his shit when he finds out. Krittoh is supposed to be coming out in your place. You copy?”
“Copy, you know I can't miss the last fire of the season! It was just a light knock on the head anyway. I have Krittoh with me, I'm using his radio. Do you copy?.”
“You had a concussion, son. The hotshot crew is inbound near Saddlepack. You copy?”
“Copy! that means I'll make it to the fire before they do! Plus, whatever Reggie doesn't know won't hurt him. Do you copy?”
“copy. If I see you out here, I'll fire you myself. I can't be taking these kind of risks, especially on a fire like this. You copy?”
“I copy. Well, then you won't see me! It's a win-win for both of us.” Somehow, Marshal's optimism didn't exactly make me feel any better about my decision to allow him to come with me, I began to feel a tinge of worry creep up my back, and my throat started to tighten in a sure sign of stress.
“You're going to kill yourself, Marshal.”
Seems that his optimism didn't cause Sébastien to feel any better about it either, his voice betrayed no anger, just genuine concern, it made me shudder.
“You worry too much, boss. I'll take it easy though, don't worry about me.”
Marshal was stubborn, perhaps too stubborn most of the time, but that's what attracted me to him. I have never been stubborn, nor have I ever been particularly assertive. Marshal always had a strong, sure optimism in everything he did or said, it was a reassuring confidence.
I met him about three standard human years ago. Marshal had come to Venlil prime for a “Terran environmental” panel being held at the local community center in my town. They wanted a human with experience doing conservation work and Marshal was exactly what they were looking for.
He was well rounded; having been with the National Park Service, Forest Service and Borough of Land Management, And he had stories to tell from his time as a Wildland firefighter. Marshal was also an author of relative renown within the small world of environmental conservation, though most of his work focused around history and outdoor lifestyles.
When I met him, I was clutching one of his books in my arms as if it were a newborn cub. I think he was shocked to see that I had a copy given that it wasn't translated into Venlang.
I must have looked so peculiar to him now that I think about It, a scrawny little Venlil with glasses holding a book he wrote about the ethics of primitive living. I likely looked like the last person who would be interested in the subject.
I asked for a signature with probably ten extra syllables then the question needed to contain, and he asked me about the book I had. He was mostly concerned with the fact that it mentions hunting, and he was curious on how I acquired it in the first place.
I explained that I acquired it through a book exchange program, which was true. It would have been almost impossible to acquire online, and mainstream sites that sell earth literature would never import something like this. The book exchange sites are really good ways to find hidden gems, books that are scarce due to tight regulations on the sort of media that can enter different worlds.
My explanation perplexed him, and he began asking me what my interest in conservation actually stemmed from. I didn't have an answer. Marshal decided to give me his contact information in case I was ever interested in talking with him about the subject.
It was shortly after that day that we started messaging each other online. It started strictly professional in nature, just a few questions about the experiences he drew on for the book. This quickly turned into exchanging stories of our personal lives, my aspirations, my desire to do something that matters.
Even after he went back to earth, we continued to message regularly. We talked about anything that came to mind, but what I loved most was when he would talk about his lifestyle. The passion he had for the outdoors, his love for the natural world around him. He talked about his reverence for animals, even the predators. He made me love everything he talked about.
Soon, I started to love him too.
So I made preparations to uproot my life and move to a new world. Me, a Venlil who was once very comfortable with the idea of never moving out of my hometown. It was as nerve-wracking as it was exciting.
I often think about one of the first paragraphs from the Boon of his that I owned at the time, it's ingrained in my memory, and sums up a lot of what I like about him and his philosophy.
“Reverence for Nature is just as contradictory as Nature is objective. Nature is, and always will be. It has no rhyme, no reason. Humanity -and all sapient creatures- have a propensity to assign philosophical and often idyllic meaning to things that just are. Because of this we also fall victim to the tendency to give nature moral power, which leads to disgust, or a feeling of betrayal when it inevitably does the exact opposite, on account of it just being.” -Marshal Mason. “Ethical dilemmas of the outdoors, and how to live with them.”
All of it lead up to this moment, descending a mountain into a wide and wild valley to face one of nature's greatest and most frightening forces.

Fire.

[Next]

Today's Verse

1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV) - However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”— the things God has prepared for those who love him.

1) Design

^KJV

• But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

^NLT

• That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.”

2) Develop

It is written/What the Scriptures mean:

The word is trustworthy and true (Rev. 21:4)

What no human mind has conceived/Entered into the heart of man:

This phrase suggests that the wonders of God’s plans and blessings are beyond human sensory experience. No one has seen or heard the full extent of what God has prepared. This emphasizes that even the human imagination or understanding cannot fully grasp the greatness of what God has in store. It transcends our thoughts and expectations.

Things God has prepared/Hath prepared:

This part highlights that these extraordinary blessings and plans are specifically for those who love God. It underscores the relationship between God's love and human devotion.

3) Actions

What actions develop the story in this verse? What is happening? To whom?
Answer:
To understand the development and context of the story in 1 Corinthians 2:9, we need to look at the surrounding verses and the overall message of the chapter. Here’s a breakdown of the actions and the narrative flow:

Context of 1 Corinthians 2

1. Paul’s Preaching and Message (Verses 1-5):
   • Paul begins by reminding the Corinthians that when he came to them, he did not use eloquent words or human wisdom. Instead, he preached Christ crucified, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit so that their faith would rest on God's power, not human wisdom.
2. God’s Wisdom Revealed by the Spirit (Verses 6-8):
   • Paul contrasts human wisdom with God’s wisdom. He explains that God’s wisdom is a mystery, hidden and destined for the glory of believers. This wisdom was not understood by the rulers of the age, for if they had understood it, they would not have crucified Jesus.
3. The Verse in Question (Verse 9):
   • Here, Paul emphasizes the incomprehensible nature of God’s plans. He quotes from Isaiah to highlight that what God has prepared for those who love Him is beyond human understanding.
4. Revelation Through the Spirit (Verses 10-16):
   • Paul explains that God has revealed these things to us through His Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. Paul goes on to say that the natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God because they are spiritually discerned.

Actions and Development

1. Paul’s Humble Approach:
   • Paul’s decision to preach not with persuasive words but with the Spirit’s power sets the stage. This establishes the foundation that true understanding and faith come from God’s power, not human intellect.
2. Contrast of Wisdom:
   • Paul contrasts human wisdom with divine wisdom. Human rulers and their wisdom failed to recognize Jesus as the Messiah, which led to His crucifixion.
3. Quoting Isaiah:
   • Paul quotes from the Old Testament (Isaiah 64:4) to illustrate the greatness of God’s plans for believers. This quote emphasizes the hidden, glorious nature of God’s promises, preparing the audience to understand that divine wisdom is revealed by the Spirit.
4. Revelation by the Spirit:
   • Paul asserts that the Holy Spirit reveals God’s wisdom to believers. This revelation process is a crucial action that develops the understanding that spiritual truths are discerned through the Spirit.

What is Happening and To Whom?

• To the Believers in Corinth:
  • Paul is addressing the Corinthian Christians, encouraging them to seek God’s wisdom through the Holy Spirit rather than relying on human wisdom and eloquence.
• Revelation of God’s Plan:
  • The key action is the revelation of God’s plans and blessings to believers. This revelation is something that no human sense or understanding can grasp, but it is made known through the Spirit.

Summary

In 1 Corinthians 2:9, Paul is explaining that the amazing things God has prepared for those who love Him are beyond human comprehension and can only be revealed through the Spirit. The actions developing this story include Paul’s humble preaching approach, the contrast between human and divine wisdom, the quoting of scripture to illustrate the point, and the ultimate revelation by the Holy Spirit to believers. The recipients of this message are the Corinthian Christians, and the overarching theme is the reliance on spiritual wisdom over human wisdom.

4) Outcome

What is God saying to you today? How can you apply this to your life?
Answer:
Reflecting on 1 Corinthians 2:9, the message God conveys is one of profound hope and assurance. The verse reminds us that God's plans for those who love Him are far greater than anything we can perceive or imagine. Here’s a personalized reflection and application of this message:

God's Message to You Today

1. Trust in the Unseen: God is encouraging you to trust in His plans, even when you can't see the full picture. His blessings and purposes are beyond your current understanding.
2. Hope and Assurance: God is reassuring you that He has prepared wonderful things for you, which should fill you with hope and confidence in His love and promises.
3. Dependence on the Spirit: The verse emphasizes the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit for wisdom and understanding, rather than solely on your own knowledge or human wisdom.

Application to Your Life

1. Cultivate Trust and Faith:
   • Action: Spend time in prayer and meditation, asking God to help you trust in His plans for your life.
   • Reflection: Reflect on past experiences where God’s plans turned out to be better than you could have imagined, reinforcing your trust in His providence.
2. Embrace Hope and Joy:
   • Action: Whenever you face uncertainty or challenges, remind yourself of this verse and the promise it holds. Let it be a source of comfort and motivation.
   • Reflection: Keep a journal where you note down moments of blessings and unexpected joys, as reminders of God’s goodness and faithfulness.
3. Seek Spiritual Wisdom:
   • Action: Make it a habit to read the Bible and seek understanding through the Holy Spirit. Join a Bible study group or find a spiritual mentor who can guide you in your faith journey.
   • Reflection: Ponder on how God’s wisdom has guided you in making decisions that aligned with His will, and how you can continue to seek His guidance.
4. Share the Message:
   • Action: Share this verse and its message with friends or family members who may need encouragement. Be a source of hope and reassurance to others.
   • Reflection: Think about ways you can demonstrate the love and wisdom of God in your daily interactions, serving as a testimony to His promises.

By integrating these actions and reflections into your daily life, you can live out the profound truths of 1 Corinthians 2:9, experiencing the fullness of God’s love and plans for you.

Verse Thoughts....

1. The Limitations of Human Understanding
   • The verse underscores the limitations of our sensory and intellectual capacities. Our eyes, ears, and minds cannot fully grasp the depth and breadth of God's plans. This invites humility, acknowledging that God's wisdom and knowledge far surpass our own.
2. The Promise of Divine Revelation
   • Although human understanding is limited, God has chosen to reveal His wisdom and plans to us through His Spirit. This revelation is not something we achieve through our efforts but is a gift from God, showing His desire to be known by us.
3. The Depth of God’s Love
   • The verse is a testament to the extraordinary love God has for those who love Him. It suggests that the blessings and plans He has for us are not only beyond our comprehension but are also crafted out of His deep love and care for us.
4. Encouragement in Uncertainty
   • This passage provides immense comfort during times of uncertainty and doubt. It reassures us that even if we cannot see or understand what lies ahead, God has already prepared something wonderful for us. This encourages trust and patience in God’s timing.
5. Inspiration for Hope and Faith
   • Knowing that God’s plans are greater than we can imagine inspires hope and strengthens our faith. It reminds us to look beyond our current circumstances and hold onto the promises of God, who is faithful and loving.

Practical Applications

1. Trust in God's Plan
   • In moments of uncertainty, remind yourself of this verse. Trust that God’s plans are greater than what you can currently see or understand.
2. Seek Spiritual Wisdom
   • Regularly engage in prayer, Bible study, and meditation to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Ask God to reveal His wisdom to you.
3. Maintain Hope and Positivity
   • Let this verse fuel your hope. When facing challenges, hold onto the assurance that God has amazing things prepared for you.
4. Share the Encouragement
   • Share this verse with others who may be struggling or in need of encouragement. Help them see the greatness of God’s love and plans.
5. Live with Expectation
   • Live each day with the expectation that God has wonderful things in store for you. Approach life with a positive and hopeful outlook, grounded in the promises of God.

Reflective Questions

Q-1) How does recognizing the limits of your understanding change your perspective on current challenges?
Answer:

1. Promotes Humility

• Shift in Attitude: Acknowledging that your understanding is limited fosters humility. It helps you realize that you don’t have all the answers and that it’s okay to seek help from others and rely on God.
• Openness to Learning: This humility makes you more open to learning and gaining new perspectives, which can lead to better solutions and personal growth.

2. Encourages Trust in God

• Dependence on Divine Wisdom: Understanding that God’s wisdom surpasses yours encourages you to rely more on His guidance. This reliance can bring peace and assurance that you are not alone in facing your challenges.
• Faith in God’s Plan: Trusting that God has a greater plan helps you to have faith that everything will work out for good, even if you don’t understand how at the moment.

3. Reduces Anxiety and Stress

• Letting Go of Control: When you accept that you don’t need to have everything figured out, it can relieve the pressure of trying to control every aspect of your life. This reduction in stress can improve your mental and emotional well-being.
• Focus on the Present: You can focus more on what you can do now and leave the unknown future in God’s hands, reducing worry about outcomes that are beyond your control.

4. Enhances Patience and Perseverance

• Long-Term Perspective: Recognizing your limits helps you to see challenges as part of a larger process. This perspective encourages patience and perseverance, knowing that understanding and resolution might come in time.
• Resilience: It builds resilience, as you learn to trust the journey and remain steadfast even when immediate solutions are not apparent.

5. Improves Relationships

• Seeking Support: Realizing you don’t have all the answers makes you more willing to seek advice and support from others, strengthening your relationships and community.
• Empathy and Compassion: This understanding fosters empathy, as you become more aware of the struggles everyone faces, leading to more compassionate interactions.

6. Inspires Hope and Positivity

• Belief in Greater Good: Trusting that there’s a bigger picture that you might not fully understand can inspire hope. Believing in God’s good plans for you can bring a sense of optimism and positivity, even in tough times.
• Focus on Growth: Challenges can be seen as opportunities for growth and learning rather than insurmountable obstacles, leading to a more positive and constructive approach to problems.

Practical Steps to Apply This Perspective

1. Prayer and Meditation: Regularly spend time in prayer and meditation, asking for God’s guidance and peace. Reflect on scriptures that remind you of God’s wisdom and plans.
2. Seek Counsel: Don’t hesitate to seek advice and support from trusted friends, family, mentors, or spiritual leaders. They can provide insights and perspectives you might not have considered.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Stay present and focus on the tasks and decisions you can make today. Let go of the need to control or worry about the future.
4. Journaling: Keep a journal to document your thoughts, prayers, and the ways you see God’s hand in your life. Reflect on how past challenges have led to growth and blessings.
5. Gratitude: Cultivate a habit of gratitude, regularly acknowledging and thanking God for His presence and the ways He has guided you through challenges in the past.

By recognizing the limits of your understanding, you can approach current challenges with a more grounded, peaceful, and hopeful mindset, trusting that God’s greater wisdom and plans are at work in your life.
End

Q-2) In what ways can you seek to deepen your relationship with God to better understand His plans for you?

Answer:

1. Prayer

• Consistent Communication: Make prayer a regular part of your daily routine. Use this time to talk to God, share your concerns, and listen for His guidance.
• Varied Forms of Prayer: Engage in different types of prayer such as adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication. This variety helps in developing a well-rounded relationship with God.

2. Bible Study

• Daily Reading: Commit to reading the Bible daily. It’s God’s Word and the primary way He communicates His will and plans.
• Study Groups: Join a Bible study group. Discussing scripture with others can provide new insights and a deeper understanding.
• Meditation on Scripture: Take time to meditate on specific verses or passages, reflecting on how they apply to your life and seeking God’s revelation through them.

3. Worship

• Personal Worship: Spend time in personal worship through music, singing, or other forms of expression that draw you closer to God.
• Corporate Worship: Participate regularly in church services and community worship. Being part of a community of believers can strengthen your faith and understanding.

4. Service and Ministry

• Volunteer Work: Engage in service opportunities within your church or community. Serving others helps you to live out your faith and can provide clarity on your purpose.
• Ministry Involvement: Get involved in ministry activities. This allows you to use your gifts and talents for God’s glory and often reveals His plans for you through your service.

5. Spiritual Disciplines

• Fasting: Practice fasting as a way to seek God more intensely. Fasting helps to focus on spiritual needs and seek God’s direction.
• Silence and Solitude: Spend time in silence and solitude to listen to God without distractions. This practice helps you to hear God’s voice more clearly.

6. Guidance from Spiritual Mentors

• Mentorship: Seek out a spiritual mentor or advisor who can provide guidance, wisdom, and support as you navigate your faith journey.
• Discipleship: Engage in discipleship programs where you can learn and grow under the guidance of more mature believers.

7. Reflective Practices

• Journaling: Keep a spiritual journal to record your prayers, reflections, and any insights or revelations you receive. This helps you track your spiritual growth and discern God’s patterns in your life.
• Retreats: Participate in spiritual retreats where you can withdraw from daily distractions and focus solely on your relationship with God.

8. Reading Christian Literature

• Books and Devotionals: Read books and devotionals that help deepen your understanding of God and His plans. Choose literature that challenges and encourages you in your faith.

9. Community and Fellowship

• Small Groups: Join a small group or home group where you can share life with others, pray together, and support each other’s spiritual growth.
• Accountability Partners: Establish relationships with accountability partners who can encourage you, pray for you, and help you stay committed to your spiritual goals.

10. Attending Conferences and Seminars

• Christian Conferences: Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops that focus on spiritual growth and development. These events can provide fresh perspectives and renewed inspiration.

Conclusion

Deepening your relationship with God is an ongoing journey that involves intentionality, discipline, and openness to the Holy Spirit. By engaging in these practices, you create space for God to reveal His plans and guide you more clearly. It’s through a committed and growing relationship with Him that you can better understand His will and purpose for your life.
End
Q-3) How can you remind yourself of God’s promises during times of doubt or difficulty?
Answer:

Scripture Memorization

• Key Verses: Memorize verses that speak to God's promises. Examples include:
  • Isaiah 41:10: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
  • Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
• Daily Recall: Regularly recite these verses to yourself, especially during moments of doubt.

2. Prayer and Meditation

• Prayer Focus: Use your prayer time to remind yourself of God's promises. Thank God for His faithfulness and ask for the strength to trust Him.
• Meditative Reflection: Spend time in quiet reflection, meditating on specific promises and allowing their truth to sink deep into your heart.

3. Journaling

• Gratitude Journal: Keep a journal where you record instances of God's faithfulness and answered prayers. Reflecting on past experiences can reinforce your trust in God's promises.
• Promise Journal: Write down God’s promises that are meaningful to you. Revisit these entries during tough times to remind yourself of His faithfulness.

4. Visual Reminders

• Post-It Notes: Write verses or key promises on post-it notes and place them around your home, office, or car where you’ll see them regularly.
• Phone Reminders: Set reminders on your phone with scriptures or affirmations of God's promises to prompt you throughout the day.

5. Worship Music

• Songs of Promise: Listen to worship songs that focus on God's promises. Music has a powerful way of reinforcing truths and uplifting your spirit.
• Create Playlists: Create playlists of songs that encourage and remind you of God’s faithfulness and promises.

6. Christian Community

• Small Groups: Join a small group or Bible study where you can share your struggles and be reminded of God's promises by others.
• Accountability Partners: Have a trusted friend or mentor who can remind you of God's promises when you’re feeling doubtful or discouraged.

7. Reading Devotionals and Christian Literature

• Daily Devotions: Use devotional books that focus on God’s promises. Daily readings can provide consistent reminders and encouragement.
• Books on God’s Promises: Read books by Christian authors that delve into the promises of God, offering deeper insights and personal stories of faith.

8. Attending Church Services

• Sermons and Teachings: Regularly attend church services to hear sermons that reinforce God’s promises and provide biblical teaching.
• Community Worship: Engage in corporate worship and fellowship, which can strengthen your faith and remind you of God’s presence and promises.

9. Creative Expression

• Art and Craft: Create artwork, crafts, or write poems that reflect God's promises. This creative process can help internalize these truths.
• Scripture Cards: Make or purchase scripture cards with promises of God. Use them for daily meditation or share them with others.

10. Personal Testimony

• Reflect on Testimonies: Reflect on your personal testimonies of how God has been faithful in the past. Share these stories with others to reinforce your own faith.
• Listen to Others: Hear testimonies from other believers about how God has kept His promises. This can be highly encouraging and affirming.

By incorporating these practices into your life, you can keep God’s promises at the forefront of your mind, helping you to navigate through times of doubt or difficulty with faith and confidence.
Scripture MemorizationEnd

• Key Verses: Memorize verses that speak to God's promises. Examples include:
  • Isaiah 41:10: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
  • Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
• Daily Recall: Regularly recite these verses to yourself, especially during moments of doubt.

2. Prayer and Meditation

• Prayer Focus: Use your prayer time to remind yourself of God's promises. Thank God for His faithfulness and ask for the strength to trust Him.
• Meditative Reflection: Spend time in quiet reflection, meditating on specific promises and allowing their truth to sink deep into your heart.

3. Journaling

• Gratitude Journal: Keep a journal where you record instances of God's faithfulness and answered prayers. Reflecting on past experiences can reinforce your trust in God's promises.
• Promise Journal: Write down God’s promises that are meaningful to you. Revisit these entries during tough times to remind yourself of His faithfulness.

4. Visual Reminders

• Post-It Notes: Write verses or key promises on post-it notes and place them around your home, office, or car where you’ll see them regularly.
• Phone Reminders: Set reminders on your phone with scriptures or affirmations of God's promises to prompt you throughout the day.

5. Worship Music

• Songs of Promise: Listen to worship songs that focus on God's promises. Music has a powerful way of reinforcing truths and uplifting your spirit.
• Create Playlists: Create playlists of songs that encourage and remind you of God’s faithfulness and promises.

6. Christian Community

• Small Groups: Join a small group or Bible study where you can share your struggles and be reminded of God's promises by others.
• Accountability Partners: Have a trusted friend or mentor who can remind you of God's promises when you’re feeling doubtful or discouraged.

7. Reading Devotionals and Christian Literature

• Daily Devotions: Use devotional books that focus on God’s promises. Daily readings can provide consistent reminders and encouragement.
• Books on God’s Promises: Read books by Christian authors that delve into the promises of God, offering deeper insights and personal stories of faith.

8. Attending Church Services

• Sermons and Teachings: Regularly attend church services to hear sermons that reinforce God’s promises and provide biblical teaching.
• Community Worship: Engage in corporate worship and fellowship, which can strengthen your faith and remind you of God’s presence and promises.

9. Creative Expression

• Art and Craft: Create artwork, crafts, or write poems that reflect God's promises. This creative process can help internalize these truths.
• Scripture Cards: Make or purchase scripture cards with promises of God. Use them for daily meditation or share them with others.

10. Personal Testimony

• Reflect on Testimonies: Reflect on your personal testimonies of how God has been faithful in the past. Share these stories with others to reinforce your own faith.
• Listen to Others: Hear testimonies from other believers about how God has kept His promises. This can be highly encouraging and affirming.

By incorporating these practices into your life, you can keep God’s promises at the forefront of your mind, helping you to navigate through times of doubt or difficulty with faith and confidence.
End
Q-4) Who in your life could benefit from hearing the message of this verse, and how can you share it with them?
Answer:
Reflecting on 1 Corinthians 2:9 and its message of hope and the incomprehensible nature of God's plans can be incredibly uplifting. Here are some ways to identify people who could benefit from this message and practical methods to share it with them:

Identifying People Who Could Benefit

1. Friends Facing Difficulties: Friends who are going through challenging times, whether it's personal loss, career struggles, or health issues, could find comfort in this message.
2. Family Members in Transition: Family members who are experiencing life transitions, such as moving, starting a new job, or entering a new stage of life, may need encouragement.
3. Co-workers Under Stress: Colleagues who are dealing with work-related stress or uncertainty might find solace in knowing that there is a greater plan.
4. Church Community Members: Fellow church members who are seeking deeper faith or struggling with their spiritual journey can benefit from this reminder of God's promises.
5. Acquaintances Facing Uncertainty: Anyone in your wider social circle who is facing uncertainty or doubt about the future.

How to Share the Message

1. Personal Conversations
   • Heartfelt Discussion: Share the verse during a personal conversation, expressing how it has helped you and how you believe it can bring them hope.
   • Empathetic Listening: Listen to their concerns and gently introduce the verse as a source of encouragement.
2. Written Communication
   • Handwritten Notes: Write a heartfelt note or card including the verse, along with a personal message of encouragement.
   • Emails or Text Messages: Send a thoughtful email or text message sharing the verse and how it might relate to their situation.
3. Social Media
   • Posts and Stories: Share the verse on your social media platforms with a reflection on what it means to you. Tag friends who you think would benefit.
   • Direct Messages: Send the verse in a private message to someone you know is struggling, accompanied by a personal note of support.
4. Group Settings
   • Small Groups or Bible Studies: Share the verse during a small group or Bible study meeting, discussing its meaning and relevance to current challenges.
   • Family Gatherings: Bring up the verse during family dinners or gatherings, using it as a topic of discussion and reflection.
5. Gifts and Tokens
   • Scripture Cards or Bookmarks: Give friends and family scripture cards or bookmarks featuring the verse.
   • Books or Devotionals: Gift a book or devotional that explores God’s promises and includes reflections on 1 Corinthians 2:9.
6. Creative Expression
   • Art and Crafts: Create artwork, such as paintings or calligraphy, featuring the verse, and give it as a gift.
   • Music and Poetry: Share songs or poems inspired by the verse, either ones you find or ones you create yourself.

Example Scenarios

1. A Friend Struggling with Job Loss:
   • Approach: Over coffee, share how 1 Corinthians 2:9 has helped you trust in God's greater plan during your own uncertain times.
   • Encouragement: Remind them that while they might not see it now, God has something wonderful prepared for them.
2. A Family Member Going Through Divorce:
   • Approach: Write them a heartfelt letter including the verse, expressing your love and support.
   • Encouragement: Highlight that God's love and plans for them are beyond what they can currently imagine, offering hope for the future.
3. A Co-worker Facing Burnout:
   • Approach: During a lunch break, discuss the verse and its impact on your perspective during stressful periods.
   • Encouragement: Suggest that taking some time to reflect on this promise might bring them peace and renewed strength.

By thoughtfully and compassionately sharing the message of 1 Corinthians 2:9, you can provide hope and encouragement to those around you, reminding them of God's incredible and unfathomable plans for their lives.
Reflecting on 1 Corinthians 2:9 and its message of hope and the incomprehensible nature of God's plans can be incredibly uplifting. Here are some ways to identify people who could benefit from this message and practical methods to share it with them:End

Identifying People Who Could Benefit

1. Friends Facing Difficulties: Friends who are going through challenging times, whether it's personal loss, career struggles, or health issues, could find comfort in this message.
2. Family Members in Transition: Family members who are experiencing life transitions, such as moving, starting a new job, or entering a new stage of life, may need encouragement.
3. Co-workers Under Stress: Colleagues who are dealing with work-related stress or uncertainty might find solace in knowing that there is a greater plan.
4. Church Community Members: Fellow church members who are seeking deeper faith or struggling with their spiritual journey can benefit from this reminder of God's promises.
5. Acquaintances Facing Uncertainty: Anyone in your wider social circle who is facing uncertainty or doubt about the future.

How to Share the Message

1. Personal Conversations
   • Heartfelt Discussion: Share the verse during a personal conversation, expressing how it has helped you and how you believe it can bring them hope.
   • Empathetic Listening: Listen to their concerns and gently introduce the verse as a source of encouragement.
2. Written Communication
   • Handwritten Notes: Write a heartfelt note or card including the verse, along with a personal message of encouragement.
   • Emails or Text Messages: Send a thoughtful email or text message sharing the verse and how it might relate to their situation.
3. Social Media
   • Posts and Stories: Share the verse on your social media platforms with a reflection on what it means to you. Tag friends who you think would benefit.
   • Direct Messages: Send the verse in a private message to someone you know is struggling, accompanied by a personal note of support.
4. Group Settings
   • Small Groups or Bible Studies: Share the verse during a small group or Bible study meeting, discussing its meaning and relevance to current challenges.
   • Family Gatherings: Bring up the verse during family dinners or gatherings, using it as a topic of discussion and reflection.
5. Gifts and Tokens
   • Scripture Cards or Bookmarks: Give friends and family scripture cards or bookmarks featuring the verse.
   • Books or Devotionals: Gift a book or devotional that explores God’s promises and includes reflections on 1 Corinthians 2:9.
6. Creative Expression
   • Art and Crafts: Create artwork, such as paintings or calligraphy, featuring the verse, and give it as a gift.
   • Music and Poetry: Share songs or poems inspired by the verse, either ones you find or ones you create yourself.

Example Scenarios

1. A Friend Struggling with Job Loss:
   • Approach: Over coffee, share how 1 Corinthians 2:9 has helped you trust in God's greater plan during your own uncertain times.
   • Encouragement: Remind them that while they might not see it now, God has something wonderful prepared for them.
2. A Family Member Going Through Divorce:
   • Approach: Write them a heartfelt letter including the verse, expressing your love and support.
   • Encouragement: Highlight that God's love and plans for them are beyond what they can currently imagine, offering hope for the future.
3. A Co-worker Facing Burnout:
   • Approach: During a lunch break, discuss the verse and its impact on your perspective during stressful periods.
   • Encouragement: Suggest that taking some time to reflect on this promise might bring them peace and renewed strength.

By thoughtfully and compassionately sharing the message of 1 Corinthians 2:9, you can provide hope and encouragement to those around you, reminding them of God's incredible and unfathomable plans for their lives. It invites us to live in a state of awe and trust, knowing that God’s plans for us are far beyond what we can imagine. By embracing this truth, we can navigate life with hope, faith, and a deeper connection to God’s Spirit.
Let's Pray:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your incredible love and the promises You have given us. As Your Word says, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him." We are in awe of Your plans, which surpass our understanding and imagination.
Lord, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the assurance that You have great things prepared for us. Help us to trust in Your divine wisdom and timing, especially during moments of doubt and difficulty. Remind us that Your ways are higher than our ways and that Your thoughts are higher than our thoughts.
When we face uncertainties and challenges, let us find comfort in Your promises. Strengthen our faith so that we may walk confidently, knowing that You are guiding our steps. Help us to be patient and to wait on You, trusting that Your plans for us are good and filled with hope and a future.
Holy Spirit, fill our hearts with Your peace and joy. Open our eyes to see glimpses of Your marvelous works and our ears to hear Your gentle guidance. May we continually seek Your presence and be sensitive to Your leading in our lives.
Lord, we lift up our loved ones who may be struggling or feeling lost. May they also come to know the depth of Your love and the greatness of Your plans for them. Use us to be a source of encouragement and hope, sharing Your promises and love with those around us.
We surrender our worries and fears to You, trusting that You hold our future in Your hands. Thank You for Your faithfulness and the assurance that You are always with us.
In Jesus' precious name, we pray.
Amen.

This is the most accurate and colorful assessment of hypergamy to date. If you can find a better write-up about hypergamy for free, donate to that person. The TLDR is: just follow the pictures.
​
In the general population, the majority of women are married to men or living with boyfriends with higher incomes than their own. This is a form of hypergamy.
Let's look at heterosexual couples with women ages 18-34 from 2019-2023 in the US. These couples live together, but are not married and have no children – boyfriends and girlfriends.
Income data from 3,500 couples all over the US. This balance is similar to the general population. This excludes the top 1% of earners.
Women generally earn less than what men earn, so we shouldn't be surprised to find some level of hypergamy in relationships. The question is, how much hypergamy is more than what we should expect? Keep those words in mind, "more than what we should expect." They're essential to the rest of this.
To answer this question, we go to Census survey data to find our target population, made up of 3,500 couples. On average, these women earned 70-75% of what their boyfriends earned.
We choose younger women (18-34) because as a group, these Americans are the "freest" and most empowered women the world has ever known. It would be difficult to argue that these women hadn't been "free" to choose their men. So was income a factor in their choices?
To find out, we're going to do an experiment. We take 1,200 of the women from these couples (see footnotes) and break them up. Then we're going to put them back on the hookup scene dating market to find new boyfriends among 16,000 potential suitors in total from the general pop.
Here are the requirements for their new boyfriends.

• unmarried and childless
• within the age range she is likely to date (and over 18)
• same race/ethnicity as her old boyfriend
• same level of education as herself
• living in the same type of area, urban vs rural
• living in the same US county (same area of state)

These women are going to look for new boyfriends without considering the incomes of the men they meet, but they have to choose a man with the same characteristics as their old boyfriend, except for his exact age and education (see footnotes).
Here's what the earnings balance looks like after they're all paired up with new boos.
earnings balance we should expect without intentional hypergamy
We took each woman, matched her up with her potential new boyfriends and found the median (midpoint) of the men's incomes. We called that the income of her new boyfriend. So we get a new balance in the population with more women who outearn boyfriends.
This is what we expect when women aren't paying attention to income when pairing. Think of this as the minimum level of hypergamy. By the calculations, in reality:

• There are 42% more hypergamous relationships than we should expect.
• There's less than a 5% chance that the hypergamous women hadn't been intentionally hypergamous in choosing their old boyfriends.

Now let's compare the old boyfriends to the new ones. How much more or less do they make compared to each other? In other words, how much more or less hypergamous are the women?
\"More hypergamous\" means that for the demographic of men a woman dates, she seeks the higher earning men. \"Expected hypergamy\" means she chooses a man of typical income for his demographic.\"Less hypergamous\" means she chooses a man with lower than typical income.

• 15% of women were as hypergamous as we should expect in their old relationships. The difference between their old and new boyfriend's incomes was no more or less than about 5%.
• 31% of women were less hypergamous than our expectations. The new boyfriend earned more than the old one.
• 54% of women were more hypergamous than our expectations. The new boyfriend earned less than the old one.
• Again, there's less than a 5% chance that this is coincidental. Just over half of all women in our demographic are more hypergamous than we should expect.

Let's look at the income differences between the women and their old boyfriends, split by how hypergamous those women are.
Each line represents a girlfriend hypergamy level. Each point represents how much more their boyfriends made compared to themselves. Negative amounts mean women outearned boyfriends in those relationships.

• For the more hypergamous women, half of their old boyfriends outearned them by at least $30K. The top quarter outearn them by at least $63K.
• For women who are as hypergamous as expected, half of their old boyfriends outearned them by at least $4K. The top quarter of their boyfriends outearned them by at least $22K.
• The least hypergamous women outearned half of their boyfriends by at least $10K. The top quarter of their boyfriends outearned them by at least $3K.

It's important to note that a woman could still outearn her old boyfriend even though she is more hypergamous than we expect. This is because for that man's demographic, he earns more than the typical man. So his girlfriend is still more hypergamous than we expect her to be in choosing from that demographic.
As an example, the woman in the relationship could be the head of a successful company with an income of $300K annually. Her boyfriend is a lawyer making $200K, but other similar men in his demographic typically earn $60K. So given the demographic of men the woman chooses from, she is more hypergamous than we expect. She seeks the higher earning man in that demographic.
The initial earnings balance of our target population was similar to the general population. However, our target pop. is more college-educated, more white and less black than the US as a whole. It's also much more urban. This is because of the demographic we chose – women living with boyfriends, who are childless.
The most common woman in our data are white American women, ages 18-34, who have at least a high school diploma, and live in urban areas. But the pattern is almost always the same no matter how we subdivide these women. More hypergamous women are the most common. Less hypergamous women are second most common. And women who are as hypergamous as we expect are the least common. It would be highly unlikely for this to be a coincidence.
Here's what our population looked like.
MS+ are those with master's or higher degrees. BA – bachelor's degree. HS/AS – high school diploma or associate's. No HS – no high school diploma.
hypergamy levels by environment
hypergamy levels by \"race/ethnicity\"
​
I'll end with this recent quote from youtube commenter Caitlin Pawlowski.

I think it really comes down to, in a nutshell, a lot of women would rather be single than be with someone who they don't deem to be equal to them. And I think a lot of women would rather be single than to be with someone who they feel adds no value to their life.
...
I do think that is a common question that women are finding harder and harder to answer about a lot of the men they come in contact with.

Food for thought.
​
Footnotes

• Our sample population of 1,200 women were the ones with the most complete data. Note that as we went from the general population to our target pop. to our sample pop., all of the earnings balances were consistent from one to the next. Our sample pop. had a bit more women outearning men than the general pop. In other words, the sample is more or less random.
• Education is tricky. Income and education are related. Hypergamy can be based on either one. But education isn't purely about income. It relates to other things like social group and interests. If we factor-in a woman's boyfriend's education, that can make the search about his income bracket. If we don't, we neglect the other characteristics related to education. So as a compromise, we required the women to look for men who had their own same level of education.
• All dollars were adjusted for inflation to equal 2022 dollars.

Related Posts
Entire pop. income differences between men and women in relationships

This is a ground-based view of the sky around the Red Rectangle. The image spans a square of one degree and was constructed from three images from the Digitized Sky Survey 2 taken in Blue, Infrared and Red (shown as blue, green and red respectively). Note that the HST picture only shows the innermost part of the nebula.
Credit: ESA and Digitized Sky Survey 2

(This case was sent my way via this post asking for case suggestions from my international readers since I focus on International cases.
So I would like to thank xzwkimin for informing me about this case. And as this case is from a country that I skipped over during America's Series, that means I am delaying the Japan case and going backward to do this one
There is also a very lengthy 1 hour long video on this case by Jackie Flores which I used as a guide since it was helpful. But rest assured, I did my own research, used by own words, included additional information and didn't just copy her.
And as you my expect from that prior statement, this is a huge case so information is surely missed so like always your own research is encouraged in case I missed anything.)
Ámbar Cornejo Llanos was born on February 14, 2004, in Villa Alemana, Chile to her mother born in 1982 and father Ulises Cornejo. Ulises was mostly absent and seemed to have separated from Denisse before Ámbar was even born. Not long after their separation, Denisse began dating a new man named Juan Carlos Pérez Aguirre, a friend of Denisse's since before Ámbar was even born. This relationship would result in them having two children and thus Ámbar having two step-siblings although one tragically passed away at 4 months old due to malnourishment brought about due to improper care. After the death, Denisse would fall into a depression, heavily drink and neglect Ámbar and her surviving brother. It got to the point where their school requested the two be removed from Denisse's custody as they were visibly not being taken care of. The request was granted and the two were removed from her custody and held in an Institution for minors.
Ámbar Cornejo Llanos
Denisse Llanos Lazcano
In 2009, Denisse had her final break up with Juan, their relationship was a dysfunctional on-again-off-again relationship with constant break ups and reunions but eventually, their final break up would come. Also in 2009, Denisse had improved enough for a court to deem it safe for Ámbar and her brother to be returned to her care. After the break-up, Denisse and Ulises appeared to reconcile and Ulises grew close to Ámbar.
On September 27, 2012, Ámbar confided in two of her school teachers that one of her friends had been sexually assaulted, after they called her friend's mother, she broke down and admitted that she had lied and was in fact talking about herself. Ámbar was taken to the police to give a statement and she told them that whenever her mother took her and her brother to visit Juan back when they were dating, Juan would sexually assault her during these visits. Juan was arrested and on November 25, 2013, The Oral Criminal Court of Viña del Mar sentenced him to three years imprisonment, ordered him to pay and cover the entire cost of the trial, prohibited him from even having any contact with Ámbar or her family, and had to disclose his address to the police. The court also again, took custody away from Denisse and sent her to live with Ulises for a few months, The no-contact order went both ways as Denisse was ordered to have nothing to do with Juan either so long as she wanted to raise Ámbar. Eventually, Ámbar was returned to Denisse's custody after she obeyed this court order.
Ulises, viewing Denisse as an unfit mother, and since he saw her as manipulative wanted to keep Ámbar. When Denisse found out, she prohibited her daughter from ever visiting her father and tried to manipulate her into disliking him, saying that it was his fault and that he was trying to break up their family. Ulises would also send money to the family for Ámbar but Denisse would often, not tell her when the money arrived and simply pocket and spend it for herself.
Denisse's plan to turn Ámbar against her father backfired and the older Ámbar got, the more strained her relationship with her mother would become. They would constantly argue and one time, Ámbar had a friend over when she and Denisse had another argument and Denisse moved to strike her daughter. Ámbar and the friend ran to another room and locked the door but Denise was so angry over whatever the fight was about that she hit the door with enough force to break it open. The only reason that Ámbar never defended herself was simple, according to friends, Ámbar told her that since Denisse gave birth to her, she was obligated to respect her mother and could never raise a hand to her.
Soon Denise would date another man, the landlord of their apartment, Manuel García Queirolo. Tragically, Manuel wouldn't be any better than Juan. Whenever he heard that Ámbar was showering, he'd use his position as the landlord to go to a room on the second floor that gave him a clear view through the bathroom window so he could watch Ámbar. Ámbar would eventually find out and inform her mother to which she told her and her brother to just not shower unless she were home. But beyond that, she took no action, she didn't even stop seeing Manuel. She actually did the opposite and got mad at Ámbar for being the subject of Juan and Manuel's lust. The worst of Manuel's depravity wouldn't come out or be known by others, even Ámbar until years later, that will be discussed further in the write-up.
With all this tragedy and her dysfunctional and abusive home life, one may expect Ámbar to have been troubled. But on the contrary, all her friends said she was happy, outgoing, kind, would do anything for them and loved to engage and share her hobbies with them such as dancing. Ámbar was deeply liked by all her classmates and was very popular. She had managed to not be defined by all that was going on in her life.
In late 2019, Denisse had found her next boyfriend, a man named Hugo Humberto Bustamante Pérez with the two moving in together in relatively short order. Ámbar was not very keen on Hugo and how fast their relationship was progressing, she also felt uneasy about him as well and how he looked at her. Ámbar told one of her friends about her mother's new boyfriend and her friend felt his name sounded familiar to the two looked him up and did not at all like what they had found.
Hugo Humberto Bustamante Pérez
Hugo Humberto Bustamante Pérez was born on March 28, 1965, in Quilpué as the third out of four siblings. His father worked as an electrician, and his mother a housekeeper with domestic violence a frequent occurrence in the household. His mother was described as neglectful while his father was actively abusive and had him put to work at the age of 8 to sell fruits and vegetables at markets. To escape his father's abuse during his most violent outbursts, he would go stay at his grandparent's house. At the young age of 13, he would fall into a drug addiction, starting with marijuana before escalating to opium and cocaine.
At the age of 15, his father kicked him out of the home so he went to Mendoza, Argentina and lived with a classmate. There he claimed to have travelled all to Bolivia, Peru, Spain and Brazil. He returned to Chile at the age of 18 and began stealing goods to sell back as well as trafficking drugs. When he was 20 he would, with the help of an accomplice take part in a scam where he would get on a bus, gain the trust of the passenger sitting next to him, offer a drink laced with sleeping pills and then steal their belongings as they passed out in the street. He would also attempt this on beaches as well.
Several times, Hugo would attempt to start romantic relationships but none of them would last particularly long usually breaking up almost immediately due to a lack of commitment from Hugo. For legitimate income, Hugo got into bodybuilding and according to him, he owned a nightclub. On May 27, 1987, Hugo was arrested for the first time on a charge of theft but he doesn't appear to have suffered severe consequences for this. He later began another relationship but this one seems to have lasted a little longer with them even having a child and Hugo getting employed as a serial guard. But they broke up shortly after the birth and in 1989 Hugo was arrested for nine counts of robbery, four counts of theft and 5 counts of armed and violent robbery earning him a 10-year prison sentence.
Hugo had a rough stint in prison, with his drug habits routinely sending him to a hospital in Valparaíso and often had extra security and shackles because he once tried escaping during a transfer. In 1992, he suddenly had a mental health crisis and was admitted to a mental hospital for 25 days. In 1995 he was granted parole but was sent back to prison 8 months later after violating it. He was finally released after serving his sentence in 1999. After serving his sentence he again attempted to turn his life around, getting a job painting and repairing cars and saving enough money to open his own store. He also took an interest in yoga and spiritualism. At a yoga class, we would meet 49-year-old kindergarten teacher Verónica Vásquez Puebla (born in 1955) who had a son named Eugenio Honorato Vásquez.
Verónica Vásquez Puebla and Eugenio Honorato Vásquez
Unlike Hugo's prior relationships, this one actually appeared to be promising. Eventually, Hugo asked Verónica for money for "home improvement" and initially she wouldn't hesitate to give her money away. Tragically, Hugo would begin squandering the relationship and would become abusive and temperamental. So on January 8, 2005, he came to ask for money, money that he had never paid back any time prior, Verónica finally said no having now wanted nothing to do with him.
When met with this reply, Hugo was left enraged. In his fit of rage, he grabbed a baseball bat and struck Verónica with it before strangling her. All the commotion had woken up 9-year-old Eugenio after being witnessed, Hugo set his sights on the child and began strangling him as well. Now that both were unconscious, he shoved a cloth down Verónica's throat, tied her hands and feet together and slit her throat. Afterward, he finished them by wrapping their heads in plastic wrap and tying a plastic bag around their heads. He then got a metal drum and hit their bodies repeatibly with a cane and breaking their bones so he could better fit Verónica and Eugenio's corpses inside. Then to hide the smell of decomposition, filled the drum with water, line and plaster before sealing it. He then proceeded to ransack Verónica's house to look for the money he had asked for and left once he found it.
He left the barrel in Verónica's home for a few days and blew her money on his old habits, that being drugs, drinking and prostitutes. Eventually, despite his methods to mask the odour, the bodies inside the drum began to smell. To deal with this, he bought a house with a patio and transferred the barrel to that property. He then asked his father if he could help him dig a hole in his yard. The hole was two meters deep and one meter wide. He asked the movers, moving in his furniture to help move the drum to the back of his house. Hugo was almost caught right then and there because liquid began leaking from the barrel but Hugo said that he worked in the food (specifically French Fry) industry and that it was a chemical from making the product. After everyone left, he buried the drum in the hole he had his father dig. Verónica's brother noticed she was missing and called her only to be answered by Hugo and said that she had gone on a spiritual retreat. Eventually, he and her family went looking for her and found her identification documents in a ditch. Hugo was again called and simply said she was bored with Verónica and hung up.
On January 26, Hugo's new neighbours called the police to report the smell and when they arrived, despite how confident Hugo was that he'd get away with it, and despite all the work he put into hiding his crime, he confessed immediately. The police placed Hugo under arrest while they excavated his yard and recovered the drum and the bodies. Tragically, the news broke at the same time as Hugo's daughter began making plans to reconnect with him. This murder gained Hugo the moniker of "The Drum Psychopath"
The police outside Hugo's house.
The police in Hugo's yard
The drum.
Hugo spent his first few months in a mental hospital where he boasted to the doctors about his economic situation and martial arts talent. Hugo's trial took place in November 2005 held by The Guarantee Court of Villa Alemana, and he was handed down a sentence of 27 years imprisonment with his release date set for January 26, 2032. Hugo would now be one of Chile's most infamous criminals and was the subject of an episode of "Mea Culpa"
Hugo being brought to court
Hugo was even given interviews while in prison, in one of these interviews he was asked if he would ever kill again if released and he would tell the interviewer that he didn't know because "I am not the master of destiny". He also told the interviewer that he was triggered by a whistling sound in his ear and he said that it was like watching a movie while he was killing Verónica and Eugenio.
On April 29, 2016, Hugo was put before a parole board and even though Hugo publically said to an interviewer that he was uncertain about whether he'd kill again or not, and even though the prison itself told the judges in charge of the parole hearings not to release him, they outraged all of Chile by granting him parole regardless on the basis of him serving 10 years, learning an actual skill he would use at a job while in prison and good behaviour meaning, legally, they had no reason to deny parole and he was released amongst 788 others. Hugo was despised by all the locals he was now living with, no employer would hire him for any more than a day so he mostly worked odd jobs. Even those who reluctantly admitted that Hugo was nice, added that he still seemed odd and one of his neighbours said "When he looked at you, it felt like he was undressing you with his eyes"
Neighbours would even put up flyers all across the area warning residents about Hugo and to make it clear to Hugo that he wasn't welcome. Parents even refused to let their children go outside alone now that Hugo was back and living alongside them and women wanted to be driven to work and driven home from work instead of walking. Even the mayor of Villa Alemana had ordered an extra police presence in the neighbourhood he moved into.
As soon as she finished reading up on his lengthy and disturbing history, Ámbar was left horrified. Denisse had had 4 partners, one sexually assaulted Ámbar when she was 8, the other was a blatant pedophile who would stare and watch her shower and now her newest one was a man who killed his girlfriend and her 9-year-old child. The only one of Denisse's partners that she actually treated with disdain and contempt was Ámbar's father who cared for and had her best interests in mind. Ámbar explained this all to Denisse who got mad at her daughter and started another fight since she saw Ámbar as judging her newest boyfriend without getting a chance to meet and know him. She even told her that everyone deserves a second chance despite barely knowing Hugo herself at this point.
Seeing as her mother remained stubborn, Ámbar went behind her back and wrote a complaint letter to the apartment's manager requesting that Hugo be banned from the premises. This complaint found its way to the public and soon the other residents of the apartment learnt that Hugo was living with them and essentially, they all came together to demand that they all leave and take Hugo with them. Leave they did but Denisse took Ámbar's brother and moved into Hugo's own home. But Denisse, now on the verge of hating Ámbar for not accepting her relationship with Hugo, punished her by abandoning her underaged daughter and having her live alone in the apartment with a very minuscule amount of money.
After only a week, Ámbar would have to leave the apartment and would go back and forth between staying at various different friend's houses but none were able to let her move in full-time. And she couldn't move into her father's place because he lived in Northern Chile and that would involve abandoning her brother and mother with Hugo. In December 2019, Ámbar moved in to live with Manuel's daughter who was old enough to have her own children and for Ámbar to refer to her as an "aunt". She was described as a much better mother figure than Ámbar's own mother and she was completely ignorant to Manuel's crimes so Ámbar felt safe around her and didn't hold her father's actions against her. And by this point, Denisse disowned Ámbar in all but name. She ended up having to repeat a grade and the school and teachers took note of this and tried to call Denisse 6 separate times for a parent-teacher conference only for her to get aggressive toward the teachers for even calling her at all.
The only interactions she would have with Denisse would be when child support was sent and Ámbar still all these years later had to go to Denisse's house to collect the money in person before her mother spent it all herself. And often she wouldn't even go inside, she'd just knock on the door, Denisse would give her the money without saying a word and close the door. And even if she didn't behave that way, Ámbar steadfastly refused to ever step foot inside Hugo's home. The latest payment was sent on July 29, 2020, when Ámbar told her "aunt" that she was going to head over. After three hours had passed Ámbar had yet to return home from Denisse's and wouldn't answer her phone her respond to any messages. Her Aunt actually called Denisse who blatantly didn't care about her daughter's disappearance and actually hung up the phone. Afterwards, the police were finally called.
Both the police and the entire neighbourhood dismissed the possibility of a runaway and together with the police, the entire neighbourhood began a search effort for Ámbar. Ulises also heard of what had been going on in Ámbar's life as well as her disappearance and immediately travelled to Villa Alemana to join in on the search and of course call and confront Denisse who would never answer or respond. Even when the police themselves showed up, Denisse refused to cooperate or help and ignored even those tasked with finding her daughter. Some witnesses even said that she just stood on her porch and drank a beer with Hugo while others tried finding her daughter
The police would put several flyers all across the local area appealing for information, questioned every neighbour they could find, and together with the Red Cross, firefighters and local volunteers searched the nearby grasslands, bushes, forests, mountains and so on utilizing sniffer dogs, drones and even thermal imaging cameras with the searches continuing into the night. A witness would also come forward and say that in the morning he drove by Ámbar and saw her crying as she walked away. One of Denisse's neighbours also said that in an unusual course of events, Ámbar actually entered Denisse and Hugo's home instead of waiting outside and that she didn't leave. This statement was supported by a CCTV camera showing her walking toward their house but never walking away.
Ámbar's missing notice
This time, simply ignoring them wouldn't work. On July 31, A large group of neighbours went to Hugo's house and waited for him to come outside so they could all gang up on and confront him and some wouldn't even let him go back inside. Hugo acted strangely amicable this time and even invited them to come inside and said the police could even bring in search dogs. Hugo even confidently stated, "If I had a body in here it would smell, Don't you think a body that's been here for 2 days would smell". This statement had the opposite effect of what Hugo had intended since as of now, most people thought Ámbar may still be alive.
Since he gave consent, everyone agreed and entered his home on August 3, including police with search dogs and although no human remains were found, they did find clothing with traces of human blood which were seized to be analyzed by forensics. The blood would end up being a red herring as it was old and belonged to Denisse. Even though Hugo seemed to have been in the clear for now, having just invited police onto his property and them finding nothing, he decided to, on August 3, with Denisse, leave Ámbar's brother in the care of one of his sisters and then the two would just flee and leave the area without notice. By now the search expanded to find them, as suspects to be arrested.
On August 6, photos were uploaded on social media showing Hugo and Denisse at a camp ground in Lilu Lilu trying to find someplace to hide, police also pulled CCTV footage from a store near the camping ground and saw the two buying clothes, hats and sunglasses in an attempt to hide their appearance. The police searched the nearby woods and found the two relatively easily and began interrogating them separately.
Hugo and Denisse at the campground
Denisse who clearly had no concern for her daughter's safety and disowned her over not accepting Hugo, turned on him very easily. She confessed that Hugo had murdered Ámbar and that she knew he did but was too afraid to come forward as Hugo had threatened her, her son and her parents and that he forced her to run away with him. According to her, Hugo had dug and torn up his living room floor to make a 6-foot ditch, bury her in it and refill the living room. The police believed Denisse and figured she'd be a valuable witness so they released her. Hugo exercised his right to remain silent and told the police nothing.
It was fortunate for the police that Hugo didn't need to speak. They checked his cell phone and found that from July 20-July 28 he had searched the following terms "Price of electric weapons, Ranged stun gun, Using chloroform to sleep, Sale of straightjacket psychiatry, Chinese bamboo torture, Chinese water drop torture, Ether sleeping spray, Using ether to put people to sleep, Medical use of scopolamine, Where to buy hydroxybutyric, Total and absolute power, How to change your first and last name, Psychological torture, Torture methods, Meat grinder price, Blows to faint, sleep or immobilize," and so much more which clearly showed that not only did Hugo premeditate Ámbar's murder, but that the murder was likely horrific. Inside his backpack were two knives, a hatchet, rope and a receipt for paint and paraffin wax.
The police easily obtained a warrant to search Hugo's home that same day. They broke up the floorboards in his living room and dug up the soil underneath. There they found three plastic coolers upside down and wrapped into plastic bags. The police removed the bags and opened up the coolers, there they found the decomposed, eviscerated and partially skeletal remains of a young girl, dismembered into 15 separate pieces. The remains were easily identified as Ámbar's based on her clothing. The autopsy revealed that Ámbar had been attacked and suffered numerous blunt force injuries across her body but especially to her hands, arms, forearms, buttocks and thighs. a cloth was stuffed down her mouth as seen with her head, and there were signs on the remains that she had been violently raped. According to the medical examiner, a saw and knife were used for the dismemberment
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https://preview.redd.it/ygeyfrwbu54d1.png?width=640&format=png&auto=webp&s=8019b513bad529d81215e0a2452b41ecb4cf9e54
Police and forensics
Meanwhile, the police faced backlash for releasing Denisse and not investigating her further, many did not believe her to be as innocent and a victim of Hugo as she portrayed, her prior history and actions during the search made that hard to believe. And even after her daughter's dismembered body was found under her living room, Denisse wasn't sad, mourning or even. After several threats including her apartment being vandalized as she was led home under her police guard and threats over the phone, Denisse was sent to a psychiatric institute after attempting to take her own life. The backlash continued after it was revealed that the institute was being kept anonymous as a "witness protection" situation.
And speaking of outage, outrage toward the Chilean government and judiciary was immense as Hugo's release led to Ámbar's death. The families of Verónica and Eugenio were also furious that their killer got to go free to kill again instead of serving his sentence. The outrage was in fact so intense, that the judge who approved Hugo's release was even suspended and investigated for misconduct. Eventually, though, she was reinstated with no consequences because although the law was flawed, she was doing her job as a judge by following it. Instead, Chile changed their laws to make the parole process much more thorough and over all harder to have parole answered as opposed to the rubber stamp process it was before.
On September 24, Denisse was removed from Witness Protection and instead placed under arrest with now the police labelling her a murderer instead of a witness. The police ended up going through Hugo's entire phone history, Denisse's, and CCTV footage around the area before and immediately after the murder which showed that Denisse was an active participant. Denisse's motive was simple yet heartbreaking and horrifying. She had on some level wanted to do this ever since their neighbours forced them to leave their apartment because of Hugo, she and Hugo both said that Ámbar wasn't letting them live together as a romantic couple in peace and she saw Ámbar as coming in between him and Hugo and that as long as her daughter was alive, she would never be with the man she wanted.
Denisse's arrest
While in prison, she was the most hated inmate by her fellow inmates and her own cellmate said that she would "make life impossible" and went out of her way to stay up late just to make sure that she could keep Denisse awake and not let her sleep. This led to Denisse being moved to solitary confinement after a "lynching" attempt. A move that infuriated the public and her fellow inmates. It also upset Hugo who was said to have been begging the courts to let him visit Denisse.
Denisse and Hugo were both tried together with the trial beginning on October 26, 2021, at The Oral Criminal Court of Viña del Mar. During the trial which was held over video link due to COVID-19. Denisse somehow found a way to play Ámbar's favorite music which the court and her relatives saw as a provocation. with the prosecution calling over 54 witnesses, 113 relevant documents, 30 expert reports, and the prosecution presented strong DNA evidence, Psychiatric reports showing them to both be sane, and biochemical reports. According to the prosecution, this is what happened.
Hugo and Denisse during the trial
On July 29, 2020, Ámbar was called by Denisse to pick up the money sent by Ulises. Before Ámbar arrived her now 14-year-old brother was sent to school to pick something up so that he couldn't be a witness to the crime. When Ámbar arrived, Denisse refused to go outside, meet her and hand her the money like always, instead, she insisted and demanded that she enter the home if she wanted it. Somehow, she did convince her and Ámbar went inside where she was immediately attacked by her mother and Hugo with Hugo proceeding to rape Ámbar.
Soon a problem in their plan emerged when Ámbar's brother returned home much quicker than Denisse had expected him to. When Denisse saw her through the windows she hurriedly ran outside and told him that they needed to go to their old apartment because they had gotten a call that someone was breaking in. He couldn't see anything that was going on and really needed to use the bathroom, but his mother insisted that they had to leave now and when he moved past Denisse to use the bathroom, Hugo from the inside kept pushing the door shut so he couldn't enter, something he found odd. He was only allowed in after Hugo dragged his sister's body to another room and closed the door. When he was finally let in to use the bathroom, he heard a loud thumping noise coming from the other room. He left the bathroom and didn't even ask about the noises but Hugo felt the need to frantically explain them away and say it was his mother coming over for a visit and folding clothes. Ámbar's brother was one of the prosecution's star witnesses.
Hugo, now left alone, began dismembering Ámbar into the aforementioned 15 pieces and placed them into the coolers while CCTV cameras showed Denisse and her son at a metro station on the way to their apartment. Denisse showed no reaction to helping her boyfriend rape and murder her daughter. While at the metro station, she sent the following text messages to Hugo. "I'm more calm now, I love you, kisses", "I hope everything goes well for you", "See you tomorrow" and "Good night love" That second message was her wishing Hugo luck in disposing of her daughter's body. They also exchanged 14 phone calls. When they arrived at the apartment, Denisse had her son stay there while she rushed to a store to purchase paint and paraffin wax. Denisse was caught on CCTV doing this and the cashier was called to testify. To keep him away from their home, Denisse had her son stay at the apartment alone for the night as she returned.
Hugo and Denisse then went to the living room to remove the wooden floorboards in the living room, dig a six-foot hole through the soil underneath the floor, dumped the coolers into the hole, filled the hole back in, and placed new replacement floorboards where the old ones were and nailed them back to the floor sealing up the makeshift grave. The paraffin wax was used to try and keep any search dogs from detecting the stench of decomposition. Neighbours heard the sound of equipment such as drills and hammers being used but that the sounds were spaced out as if Hugo and Denisse were trying to be quiet with them. Denisse then wrapped Ámbar's cell phone in aluminum foil, burnt it and discarded it in a crawl space. Denisse's fingerprints were pulled from this foil. Denisse's shoes were also examined and traces of wax were found on the soles. Hugo seemed supremely confident that he would never be caught but as soon as he was confronted by his neighbours he was suddenly terrified and frantically told Denisse that they needed to run away.
On November 26, 2021, the two were found guilty and on December 7. both were sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole until at least 40 years into the sentence meaning the two won't even have the possibility of release until Hugo is at least in his 90s. It wasn't just murder the two were convicted of, they also were sentenced for rape and abuse, tragically not just that of Ámbar. Ámbar's brother wasn't just a major in the murder case, Hugo and Denisse had been sexually abusing him as well this whole time and the two were sent to prison for those crimes. For the sake of his protection, specific details involving his case have thankfully not been made public. They were both acquitted on the charge of illegally burying a body and Denisse was acquitted on the charge of raping Ámbar. They both appealed the verdict and sentence but on June 2, 2022, the Chilean Supreme Court upheld the decision.
Now I mentioned that Manuel García Queirolo would be brought up again as his actions were even more heinous, Well, during her disappearance and murder, the Cyber Crime Unit was investigating Manuel for completely unrelated reasons, he was suspected of producing and possessing child pornography on his cell phone and other sex crimes from 2016-2020. On August 17, 2020, he was placed under arrest while investigators went through his phone. As they expected, he did possess mutable inappropriate images of minors.
Manuel's arrest
Horrifyingly enough, 400 of which were all of Ámbar back when she lived in his property. Aside from photographing her while she was showering, he also had pictures of upskirts and pictures taken up her dresses and the phone camera zoomed in to focus on her privates. Ámbar never found out about these images. On December 15, 2021, Manuel was convicted by The Oral Criminal Trial Court of Viña del Mar and sentenced to 14 years imprisonment on December 27.
Ámbar's other relatives, friends and various women's rights organizations were satisfied with the verdict and even celebrated in the streets. The families of Verónica and Eugenio were also pleased to know that he was back in prison. For Hugo and Denisse, they are likely to never see each other face to face ever again. Ironically, that is despite being in the same prison. On April 27, 2022, Denisse was transferred to the same prison as Hugo after an apparent "lynching" attempt which led to lacerations on the scalp, bruises on both sides of the neck, an orbital hematoma, a laceration in the right eye, a wound on the lower lip, a hematoma in the lumbar dorsal area and on the left elbow. Although she has been attacked several times before this was the most brutal one.
Ámbar's brother is now 17-18 and is living with other family on Ulises's side. He is said to be doing well, has made several new friends and has moved on and put this incident behind him with his life looking up for him.
Sources (In the Comments)

Our girl's got negotiating skills
I’m going to start this out by saying I absolutely ADORE Colin and Penelope, so this post is all in good fun 😊
As someone who usually only dips into romance as a break between non-fiction history/economics/business, I can’t help but find my mind drifting towards what a forensic accountant or auditor would find if they dove into Colin and Penelope’s finances and their general attitudes towards money.
For context, an auditor is someone who looks all all transactions as well as internal systems of control around decisions and money (how money is used but also how it stored, safeguarded, etc) in order to manage risk and discover potential fraud, and a forensic accountant is someone who is brought in after financial crime is already suspected (think, Enron). I think both professions would have a field day, and I would be utterly delighted if we happen to have some within the Polin hive.
Shall we start?

COLIN — The Bridgerton Estate Auditor's Report

Overall Picture - familial: Comes from a well-off family and holds a trust fund of unknown sum from his father.
Overall Picture - personal: Has no independent source of income. Has no definite professional aspirations. Third son who will not inherit title. Has never shown an interest in managing family business affairs. Does not have a university degree. His only marketable skill is potentially writing.
Controls and Fiduciary Responsibility: Areas for Concern

• Lack of thrift: Spent two entire summers traveling and buying nice gifts and clothes without a personal source of income.
• Lack of thrift (2): Plans a long engagement to a woman who is likely without dowry so that a grand wedding can be planned, presumably financed by his own family. ("Engagement #1")
• Lack of regard for systems of decision making: Two examples of proposing to women without 1) consulting their families first, 2) without regard for whether there would be a dowry, and 3) full due-diligence on his intended’s personal and familial financial situations and family's risk profile
• Lack of regard for financial controls: Withdraws a significant sum in order to make an investment on behalf of the family without the Lord’s permission and attempts to hide it.
• Poor fiduciary duty — insufficient investment due-diligence: Considers an investment after two meetings and without having personally inspected mines himself. Does not get a sample product and have a neutral third-party expert assess the product for its quality. Potentially only consults said experts *after* making an investment.
• Conflict of interest: Makes an investment in a friend’s family business not for the sole purpose of furthering the Estate but for social reasons as well (to bring families together). This conflict of interest results in a lack of proper due-diligence (above) and investment proves to be a fraud
• Poor fiduciary duty - cash expenses: Sudden increase in the number of unexplained petty cash transactions.
• Misappropriation of Estate funds for personal purposes: Uses Estate funds in a criminal manner to further own personal relationships at the financial expense of the Estate (See "Poor financial duty - cash expenses"). Uses Estate funds to pay for illegal services on at least two separate instances (sex workers).
• Increases Estate Risk Exposure: At least four separate instances of taking actions that potentially increased or did increase Estate exposure to scandal (Proposal #1, Gemstone “Mines”, Bribery, Proposal #2)

COLIN — Crimes:

• Bribery -- Confirmed: Bribed at least one (1) Featherington maid and proceeded to take advantage of a young lady. At least one non-spousal witness would be able to attest.
• Bribery - Suspected: Bridgerton footmen (drawing room), and Featherington footmen (carriage ride)
• Misappropriation of Estate funds in order to commit another crime (bribery) -- Confirmed.
• Misappropriation of Estate funds in order to commit another crime (purchasing illegal services) -- Confirmed. At least four witnesses would be able to attest Legal in the UK.
• Embezzlement — investment in mines without CFO’s approval - Confirmed

Upon investigation, misappropriation of Estate funds to pay for sex workers appears to be a widespread problem by members of the Estate.
Auditor’s Recommendation: Implement dual signature controls for large withdrawals; require receipts for petty cash transactions; implement monthly limits on petty cash withdrawals.

PENELOPE — Business Risk Assessment

Overall picture -- familial: Comes from a family of apparently significant means but with a history of frequent past questionable decision making and insolvency.
Overall picture -- personal: Showed entrepreneurial talent from a young age. Demonstrated marketable skills with a sophisticated understanding of subscription business models and word-of-mouth marketing techniques. Demonstrated negotiation skills and ability to manage key suppliers. However, the subject's current business is illicit.
Business Model Assessment: Areas for Concern

• Revenue Sources: Primary finding is that the subject runs a secret, unlicensed newsletter-circulation business with significant revenues.
• Single Point of Failure: Business requires subject to keep a low profile in order to source information for the business. Should subject be unable to undertake information-sourcing activities, revenue and subscriber loyalty is threatened.
• Transaction risk: Revenues are all cash, which investigators generally regard as a high risk for money-laundering.
• Safeguarding of funds: Does not use a bank. Stores cash under floorboards and in her bra.
• High untraceable cash expenses: Frequent, unexplainable expenditures related to private carriages, printing presses, and printing press key blocks that cannot be explained without exposing the illicit business
• Inconsistent thrift practices: While subject saved the funds from the business for a long time, subject displays signs of new wealth without a clear source. Spends significant funds on new dresses, which raises suspicions among siblings and general society population.
• High risk of defamation lawsuits: The newsletter has defamed dozens of society subjects. As the business is being operated as a sole proprietorship without apparent Director's Insurance, the subject has a high personal exposure to defamation-related lawsuits.

PENELOPE — Crimes

• Money laundering -- Suspected: works with a lawyer to launder cash from the business into family's finances
• Operating a business without a license -- Confirmed: Operates a newsletter-subscription business without permission from the Crown. At least two witnesses would be able to attest
• Tax fraud: At least 3 years of back taxes + interest owed to the Crown

Upon investigation of the Featherington family, a significant pattern of gambling, illegal debts, scams, and other crimes were uncovered.