The waiter marched out of the dimly lit kitchen and kicked the obsolete jukebox until it resonated with the sweet melodies of ‘Presley’. The tune displaced the deafening silence of the dark empty diner. Kyra fixed her gaze on him as he wiped down tables and rocked along with the music. The droning hum of the appliances and pattering of the rain against the tinted windows sang with the music, a symphony of the diner.

From the walls of the booths, the once vibrant colours had now become washed out, a mere imprint of the past. Kyra sat at a corner booth, under a muted light, engrossed in her work. She tucked an amber lock of hair behind her ear as she typed aggressively, a moth to the blue flame of her laptop. She picked up her warm mug to find a sliver of coffee left.

“Kyle! Coffee stat!” she hollered from her seat. No response.

Eager, she stood up and went to pour some more. Warm hints of vanilla and caffeine filled the air as she walked back to her table. Just as she sat, a notification popped up on her screen. “Are you up for a challenge?” read out Kyra. Unbothered, she clicked ‘no’ on the screen. She stared at the screen as she pondered the answers to the homework set. Kyra grabbed her coffee cup and took large gulps.

“Slow down! You might burn yourself! We wouldn’t want that.” read the screen. Kyra put her cup down and rubbed her eyes in disbelief. Kyra chuckled and said "That's insane. Hold on." She hovered over the pop-up and opened it up.

"So are you up for a challenge?" Kyra read. She shrugged and accepted the invite. Kyra had been up since four and could use certainly use a break. Her screen now emanated a hazy auburn glow that flashed a question. “You seem tired. Order something?: salad wrap or a banana split?”

“Haha, whatever, a banana split,” Kyra whispered. ‘clink.’ It spun slowly on her table and came to a stop. Kyra's eyes bulged in shock as reality seemed to chip away. She slowly pulled the delicacy towards her as the lights spasmed for a split second. It seemed real enough. Kyra felt drawn toward the game's alleged innocence. She played, earned and celebrated, as she passed requests, and received strange momentos that tended to blip in and out of reality.

She paced around the diner, as she clicked away and laughed in solitude.

The analogue clock on the wall read two a.m. as she frantically played the game, reeking havoc within the diner. “Where is your mighty squire?” it asked.

“Mighty squire? Who would th- oh! Kyle! Kyle come out here.” Kyra called out.

“Now choose, his hair or eyes?”

“What does that even mean? I do love his eyes,” she told herself.

Kyle slowly walked out and sat in front of Kyra.

“What do you want now, crazy? He teased.

Kyra hovered over the option and chose ‘eyes’. “Nevermind,” she told him.

He got up and slowly walked away from the table until he stood upright in the middle of the diner. Suddenly, shrilling screams radiated from him as he clenched his eyes and rabidly moved around. Inhumane buzzing filled the air as the lights and appliances shook. He wailed and whimpered as he stumbled in the darkness, calling out for Kyra. Kyra’s colour drained as she snapped out of the game’s treacherous trance. Vibrations echoed throughout the chasms of the petit diner before coming to an abrupt stop. Kyra’s ears rang in the splitting silence. Kyle’s screams had come to a halt. Then he turned around. Blank. Kyles’ barren face jolted erratically in disbelief.

She sped to her laptop and slammed it. She rushed to Kyle and lifted him up to sit him next to her. When she sat back down, her laptop was open.

“Aw, you didn’t think it would be that easy…” it read.

Filled with dread, she backed away from the computer towards the inside of the booth, rigid. Kyra picked up her laptop and smashed it into the ground. Breathless, she leaned against the glass, holding onto her head only to be greeted by gentle tapping from behind.

‘Thud. Thud. Thud.’

Looking down at the desperate blinking of my fuel indicator, I knew it was time to quench its thirst. I drove through the violent snow in search of shelter. Streaks of warm-hued lights ran past as I made my way into a gas station on the way to prepare for the journey ahead. The snow had now seemed encapsulated within the hazy vicinity of the station, frozen in time. My car trudged atop the thickened layer of snow beneath, emanating its crunched sound throughout my car.

The aberrant breeze scantily blew past me as I stepped out of the car and onto the blanketed pavement. I reached for the pump and inserted it into my car. I stood there mindlessly endowed in an off-white haze, bordered by the unfamiliar darkness of the forest. I walked towards the minuscule convenience store, one that was devoid of displays, only to be greeted by the ominous humming of fluorescent lights up above. I grabbed a coffee, paid the uninterested cashier and pushed past the teetering door.

I set my drink down on the curb beneath an awning and sat down.

The unfiltered wind howled gently as it scampered and manoeuvred throughout the station. As I stood amongst the desolate structures of the station, I felt out of place, yet comforted by its solidarity. I walked towards the open air and solemnly stared at the sky of faded stars and worlds up above. I raised my arms up to relieve strain from my back and allowed myself to move around, skipping and catching intricately spun snowflakes. I felt alive. So many things have changed in the past few days, but right then, I’d never felt more like myself.

The forest edge drew me in as I glared one last time into its gruesome yet alluring darkness. I walked back towards my car wading across the canvas of snow beneath, retracing past remnants of travellers such as myself and removed the pump. The intoxicating brisk air left my lungs as I retreated back into the cosy cavern of my car. After I took long and yearning looks at the unstirring and unbothered demeanour of this sequestered plane, I drove back, back to a life of condemning chaos.

Intelligence is a peculiar term to wrap your head around. Time has significantly altered the definition of intelligence in humans. Progressions in society such as technology, despite its convenience, are regressing our ability to enhance our cognitive thinking.

A few decades ago, individuals poured their hearts and souls into composing articles. Now it takes the click of a button to obtain data and convert it into information. Evolution plays an extensive role in the changed brain function of homo sapiens. Over the centuries, our brains have adapted to become more functional and allocate specific parts of our brain and localise tasks for more efficient processing. The increase in the volume of the brain is somewhat correlated with the increase in intelligence in homo sapiens, even though it is more weighted on the neuron count. “Intelligence is seen not to be a unitary entity, but it coexists as a discrete socio-cognitive domain.” (Garder 1993; Sternberg 1990; Goleman 1995). Throughout history, primates and modern humans both showed an increase in intellectual growth. Forms of art to breakthroughs in the sciences, math and philosophy, are evidence that suggests so. Time is a double-edged sword. People in the 18th and 19th centuries were more attentive to discoveries.

Regression in the cognitive ability of humans is increasing. There is no doubt that humans are getting brighter, but in what context are we progressing concerning intelligence? The overdependence on technology is causing us to become too comfortable. Democratic development has halted, and violence, climate change, and pandemic disease is threatening hundreds of billions of people. The most critical issues are intertwined. A worsening environment will exacerbate economic concerns, resulting in new security challenges. Technology, when utilised effectively, can enhance the lives of billions of people; if used incorrectly, it can destroy us all. As seen in the younger generation, such as myself, we are extremely dependent on our devices. Whether it be for social media, entertainment or educational purposes, technology has become a part of us, this is the source of our ignorance.

Progression in humanity is present in terms of technological advances as well as discoveries in medicine, which have skyrocketed. This rapid burst of cultivation in society is remarkable. Humanity now has an advantage with such devices to make progress in life and improve our world. Corporations such as NASA, Tesla, SpaceX and several others are working hand in hand to grow our space industry, something we could not have accomplished without the wave of technology. Students all around the world can access sources and opportunities online to progress on their path to excellence.

‘What counts is not whether we think society is progressing or regressing. What matters is our level of consciousness. As consciousness grows, so does the potential for improving everyone's life.’ 'The seed of tomorrow is sown today by our level of awareness.' If your consciousness contracts due to fear, and confusion, your options for enhancing your life will likewise contract. What is the point of so much progression when regression seems to be walking hand-in-hand with it?

Technology has made the world more 'connected' than ever. The use of technology has increased throughout the decade. It has provided us more access to information, expanded opportunities for social media connections, shopping and even playing games with people on the other side of the planet – all from the comfort of our own homes. From referring to an article to messaging a peer, we utilize technology every day and hardly apprehend how important it has become to us. Some individuals differ. We have a connection via the internet, yet this action is incomparable to a physical impression. So are these advancements enhancing our lives or just making us more cut off from the real world?

We need to develop social skills with our peers. It is the opposite of lying behind a computer. Social media and video gaming, the two most common uses of technology, lack decent human interaction. Many individuals tend to be in ‘non-physical’ reach, because they fear they may be at risk of being judged professionally, often found among introverts. Psychologists showed that human interaction is a catalyst that improves happiness and leads a prosperous life.

Research suggests that the use of the internet is the primary source of depression and loneliness. Depression often occurs in age groups teens to adults. Social media often causes people to become desperate, dependent and delirious pondering over websites and socials more than personal connections. Such activities cause damage to the mental state of health that is, depression, anxiety and various others. The most effective way to prevent such anomalies is to have frequent human interaction.

Not only does the extensive use of technology cause loneliness, but it also provides people with negative personality traits. The most common being narcissism, racism and much more unpolite attributes. These characteristics weaken an essential skill, being social. It can cause hate against the person, which can cause psychological issues ranging from despair to stress. These attributes also can destroy an individual's core values, causing changes in their personalities.

Despite these concerns, the internet is quite a tool. It has formed the world's largest association, a global community. We can access a pool of different websites from all around the world. Technology also provides us with infinite sources of knowledge. It makes it easier to apprehend information and be productive.

All in all, technology is a treasured tool. People must limit there time on the internet as well as utilize when it is necessary to prevent future obstacles. Along with this, balance your social time among your peers. How do you think technology has impacted you as a person, what can you do to improve or prevent those occurrences?

Modern society is seemingly racing towards progression. Riots and acts of destruction are on the rise. These conflicts have offset our once harmonious planet. Harmony is about being part of a greater global society that constantly strives for efficient progress towards a peaceful environment for the betterment of future global citizens.

Conflicts allow us to pursue improper and unnecessary motives. This is evident in war and conflict-ridden areas such as Ukraine and Russia, Syria and the DR Congo river conflict. To create a structured civilization, we must diminish political injustice, cases of financial instability, religious dissimilarities and lack of communication; these factors lead to conflicts such as the incident between the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema. This dispute was primarily caused due to a disagreement regarding sharing of the resources provided by the river. Such disputes put the people at risk. The ACODIF, a Congolese peace organization, however, issued a peace treaty that brokered the once fought over land to restore the balance in DR Congo. This is a righteous example of the possibilities we have to better our world.

The only way we can move towards a better world is to obtain this harmony. We humans need to learn how to live in harmony to provide for future generations. Harmony must be nurtured and cherished. We need to learn from our previous mistakes; political warfare, misuse of power, and racial backlashes are all solid reasons why we should shift our train of thought from reckless to harmonious bliss. To come up with solutions to counter strife worldwide, we must look back at its causes. One planet, one person. We are all alike in various ways; we need to embrace and protect each other. A key to solving problems such as discrimination and injustice is giving all people a fair opportunity to be trained into responsible citizens.

Once we implement these habits into our daily life, we’ll start to notice the changes they bring; overall, pursuing harmony as the main motive for life will bring in ample benefits to societies and their inhabitants. Peace and harmony are fundamental prerequisites of our life and are an ideal path to follow. Improvement of infrastructure and possible funding will be dominant in various areas of development. Public services/facilities will also be more appealing and better to use. Choosing to live in harmony will transcend borders and create stronger political ties among governments. Living in calm and inert habitats provides psychological benefits as well. Some are a clear mindset and higher rates of productivity. It would improve our overall mindset and mood. Being at peace and in harmony with each other and our environment will set off a more vibrant vibe in our global community.

Harmony is a state which we need to conquer. To establish a prosperous society, the wiser people take the path of peace and harmony. Without peace and harmony in a nation, it is impossible to achieve political strength, economic stability, or cultural growth. Before transmitting the notion of peace and harmony, among others, an individual needs to possess peace within them while their body and mind should be in balance. Even one person can transmit the notion of peace and harmony, among others, and it is everyone 's responsibility to maintain that peace and harmony in society.

Sep 18 2022 (day 1)

After the languorous economy flight, I finally stepped out of the congested bijou airport, the warmth of South America embraced me with open arms. To them, I was no foreigner, but one amongst the people. I have to wait for Gerald to come to pick me up.

Sep 18 2022 (day 1)

It was around 5:15 am when Gerald pulled up the pickup. The soft rumble within the grey car resonated as we drove past pastel buildings and a hazy auburn sky. As soon as I walked into my motel room, I found refuge and luxury within these walls. Soft mattresses. Need. Sleep. I’m due tomorrow for a venture to Laguna de Apoyo.

Sep 19 2022 (day 2)

I never once fathomed that I would be within a once active volcano's crater, surrounded by its mystical “holy” glistening waters and abutting tropical forests. Paths branched out over the landscape, flora atop it, aching to retreat back to their norms. Soaking up the culture and purity of the terrain, I turned to Gerald who spoke about the rich heritage of Masaya. Spry locals greeted us as we trudged towards the rural communities and found belonging. The people, the places and the spirit of Nicaragua call to me, it calls to those of us who seek comfort in adventure.

Sep 20 2022 (day 3)

Today, I traversed over the harsh Masya Volcanoes, laced with ethereal plains of grass needles that swayed in the brisk breeze. The moon-like craters expunged smoke and gas from its dark surface of hidden bubbling fire lakes beneath. The dormant volcano, formally known as ‘The Mouth of Hell’ is just one of 19 active volcanoes in this land of lakes and volcanoes. I want to see it all. Ometepe island, here I come.

Sep 21 2022 (day 4)

Atop the deck of the rackety ferry, I lay there, an observer, of the world around me. The day dawned crisp and clear. The sky was ablaze with warm colors that shone softly across the waters bringing with it a flurry of early-morning activity aboard. The guide tells us all that the island is known for its twin volcanoes and committed locals. Onshore, the island welcomed us, booming with character, from its vibrant buildings to its embracing ambience. La Paloma is the village area in which our group stayed, accompanied by hammocks, waterfront shacks, picnics and bars. The tourist-friendly yet culture-soaked Planeterra Foundation was where you could become one with the people, dive into authentic cuisine, and support local brands. I soon met with my host family. Despite the prominent language barriers, we were already entangled souls; after all, languages are the pedigrees of nations.

Sep 22 2022 (day 5)

There’s something quite unique about island life. The sun guides the order of the day, and clocks and calendars seem irrelevant. I lay on the hand-woven bed within the shack, awakened by chatter and warm sunlight. We set out to navigate Ometepe, hiking towards Concepcion. Dense clouds topped the peak of the active stratovolcano as we made our way to the summit. Fading into the clouds, all sound was muffled. The only sounds were of a far-off windchime, twinkling in the breeze. The sudden change of temperature was strange as we ascended further up to reveal a steppe overlooking the island of Ometepe. We further ventured off to a hidden oasis in the jungle; retreat within a retreat; Ojo de Agua, a hidden Utopia. Clear, sparkling pools set in rock and surrounded by lush vegetation opened up to us. After getting into the water, I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by happiness and bliss. Travelling is who I am. To think, there’s a whole world out there, waiting for me.

The stack of papers landed atop my worn-out desk, emanating a loud thud. My insides ached as the clock sluggishly inched towards ten. Each second was filled with agony. As soon as the clock struck, I picked up my pen and flipped over the page.

Aggressive flaps of paper, manic sounds of scribbling and the occasional fumbling of stationary echoed within the chasms of the hall. My eyes rapidly raced over lines and questions that probed my knowledge, leading to a further convoluted set of questions. Maintaining my momentum, I presumed I would be able to complete my paper with enough time to spare.

"Miss! How much more time do we have left?" wailed the ill-mannered boy.

"We have about 30 minutes, so get on with it!" responded the teacher.

Taking advantage of this allocated time, I went back to brush up on some responses and punched a few numbers into my credible calculator. When I moved back to the previous page, people had already hurried to hand in their work.

"What's the rush?" I asked, only to get dismayed by the clock. 10. Minutes. Left.

Sweat built up between the slippery plastic body of my pen and palm., Perturbation coursed through my body, plaguing my mind with doubtful thoughts. My arm pulsed and throbbed as I struggled to concoct and construct a perfect response to the question. I lifted, dropped and rubbed my hands along the inked pages in pursuit to complete this bundle.

The antagonising ticks and stocks of the clock resonated within my head. Each click, a reminder to get moving. My exhausted pens' journey had come to an end as I lifted my paper in victory and slammed it onto the submission table.

I triumphantly walked back to my table and turned to a friend.

"That paper was too easy. Right?" I teased.

"Yeah, but question 16." he chucked.

My hands went numb and my mind clouded over.

"I'm sorry, question what?!"

Consistent reverberations were sent throughout the rapidly moving train which swayed along the tracks, suspended 10 stories above. Gentle piano and chatter filled the cabin. The gaping windows were ambushed with the pattering of sharp raindrops glazing over the expansive landscape of mountains and pines.

“Here’s to all of us and William for successfully setting out on this venture,” announced Elliot as he raised his glass to the heir of the family estate. William awkwardly smiled and waved off the compliments. These types of soirees weren’t his thing. He sat there, all poised and straight. His voluminous cut hair fell onto his brow haphazardly as he moved his gaze elsewhere and hid beautifully arched brows that framed his large, expressive eyes. He had a delicate, aquiline nose, but a stubborn mouth and chin.

“Excuse me, I need to head to the restroom,” said William as he left the flamboyant banquet hall, full of his ideal siblings and relatives; pure, chaste and refined. All things William didn’t want to be.

William walked towards the lavatories only to be interrupted by the abrupt turn taken by the train. He tripped and fell onto the carpeted crimson floor. As soon as he was back on his feet, something felt off. His eyes pierced right through William. This man stood behind him. Inhumanely still.

“Oh excuse me, can I help you?” William called out. No response. The man sharply turned around and bolted into the next cart. ‘What strange people.’ he thought until screams radiated from ahead. William picked up speed, as he ran unsteadily between the cart junctions and pushed the doors open to reveal rattled civilians. He quickened his pace until steps became leaps; with laboured breath, he pushed through towards the end of the train pursuing the disreputable man.

Without much thought, William pushed people to the side, to get through the crowd and over to the man. The distance between them grew shorter, despite the outside illusion of Williams’ stationary state. The last train clumsily slid along the rail tracks and hesitantly pulled up to a halt at Westminster station. Its rickety doors lethargically slid open and wickedly beckoned passengers into its carriage of mystery. As William looked directly ahead through the pane of glass on the other side of the carriage, he caught a glimpse of an aberrant, shady and short streak.

“What? Where’d he g-” Williams’ blood ran cold.

“You’re it.” scruffily said the hooded man, towering tall before William. “Lights. Out.”

“William! William! Hello?” snapped Williams’ mother. “Eat your food stop, daydreaming!”

William suddenly sprang up in his seat, drenched in sweat and filled with despair and perturbation.

“Where’d he go?! I was just with him in the other cart-” he pauses and takes a slow look around. The excessive decor. The ruffled chairs. His theatrical family. William was back at the dining hall.

William hesitantly took his fork and picked up a bite as the man watched through the window, glaring at him, waiting to play again.