World of Darkness

Let's meet to write! Schedule : 18:30 - 18:45: Arrival & introduction tour. Share briefly with the group your project and the "goal of the day". 18:45 - 20:00 : Let's write! 20:00 : Closing tour. Did you achieve the "goal of the day" ? See you soon !

💃🕺 Salsa Tuesdays at Cinquantenaire! Join us this Tuesday under the arches for an evening of dancing, music, and great vibes ☀️ ✨ Schedule:6:30 PM – Beginners7:30 PM – Intermediate8:30 PM – Improvers 🎉 First class is FREE for all newcomers!💰 Single class: €15 | 5 classes: €65 | 10 classes: €120 Whether you're just starting or looking to improve your moves, come be part of our growing salsa community 💛 See you on the dance floor! 🎶

Small curated movie nights in a hidden garden in Ixelles, next to Place Flagey. A mix of: * **cult classics** * **recent movies** * **international cinema** * **comedy nights** * **karaoke & dubbing chaos nights** * **comfort food and summer vibes** **This is not a giant public Meetup** where 40 strangers stand awkwardly around overpriced drinks pretending networking is fun. Humanity already suffered enough. Our idea is simple: we gather in a private home and transform the courtyard into a small outdoor cinema. Sometimes we cook together before the movie: Italian, Thai, Lebanese, Japanese, Balkan, Greek, Latin American street food etc. Sometimes people simply grab pizza from the excellent pizzeria next door and join the screening. Food is intentionally relaxed: bowls, finger food, street food, popcorn, snacks, comfort food. **Some nights are more gourmet.** Some are glorified pizza-and-movie nights. Both are valid forms of civilization **;-)** ## **What makes this different** The group is i**ntentionally small**: usually 6 to 8 people maximum. **People are introduced properly.** Nobody gets abandoned in a corner. The atmosphere stays human, social and safe. **No heavy drinking.** **No creepy behavior.** No random people showing up uninvited. Smoking is allowed because is outside in the courtyard and occasionally we may have **hookah nights** depending on the movie/theme. ## **Typical evenings** * Wong Kar-wai + Asian comfort food * Spaghetti western + Italian street food * Anime + sushi night * Greek cinema + mezze * Balkan chaos cinema + burek * Cult movie dubbing nights where people voice scenes live karaoke-style Yes, this is a real thing now apparently. ## **Important** Because Meetups and public internet are full of bots, spam accounts and socially radioactive individuals, **we do NOT post the exact address publicly.** To join: scan the QR code on the image and request access to the private WhatsApp group or send me a DM. From there: * we announce movies * vote on menus * organize cooking nights * coordinate places **If you are new in Brussels, introverted, traveling, recently arrived, or simply tired of giant impersonal events, this may be your thing.**

The practice of authentic presence is about freely expressing and revealing yourself while being with others. Through this practice, you learn to let go of habitual patterns and conditioned responses, allowing you to form deeper, more genuine connections rooted in who you truly are. ## About the event Authentic presence is a path of radical honesty. It creates a safe and supportive environment where you can look at yourself with fresh eyes. At the same time it often is fun, enjoyable, beautiful, and meaningful. Ultimately, this practice leads to a closer connection with yourself and more meaningful relationships with others. Join these beginner sessions to learn basic techniques from authentic relating and circling. Activities include meditations, dialogues, and exercises on sharing and owning your experience. No prerequisites—just come as you are! Contribution: €20 registration and more info: [click here](https://www.houseofthebeloved.eu/authentic-presence) [Join our WhatsApp group to ask questions or stay updated](https://chat.whatsapp.com/I45llASEfCuE4L7WZ6ctOt) We look forward to meeting you!

EN (FR en bas): We're still accepting people in our classes. Join us!​ -step 1: Book here! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html) -step 2: Show up! [Schedule](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#schedule) Fees : [All info on trials, packs, subscriptions here](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#fees) Locations: -Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels Metro/Tram: Mérode Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1: From base to the dancefloor! When you come for the first time we go over the base & rhythm with you. Then you are included in the group and everybody learns the same new steps for which you just need the base. Practice makes perfect: just relax and enjoy Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop and/or Forró! Our group is very welcoming and looking forward to meet new dancers! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2: Ready to go deeper on Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop &/or Forró? Let's go! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3: Looking for #SalsaChallenge? Already familiar with Forró Root? We've got your back! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates) More info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be](https://www.danceproject.be) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project) \-\-\-\-\- FR: Nous acceptons encore de nouvelles personnes dans nos cours. Rejoins-nous ! -1ère pas : Fait ta réservation ! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html) -2ème pas : Vient danser ! [Horaire](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#horaire) Les prix : [Toutes les infos sur les essais, packs, abonnements ici](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#prix) Endroits : -Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels Metro/Tram: Mérode Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1 : De la base à la piste de danse ! Lorsque tu nous rejoins on voit la base et le rythme avec toi. Ensuite, tu es inclus dans le groupe et tout le monde apprend les mêmes pas pour lesquelles tu as juste besoin de la base. C'est en forgeant qu'on devient forgeron : détend-toi et profite la Salsa, de la Bachata, du Lindy Hop et/ou du Forró ! Notre groupe est très accueillant et a hâte de rencontrer de nouveaux danseurs ! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2 : Prêt à approfondir la Salsa, la Bachata, le Lindy Hop &/ou le Forró ? Allons-y! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3 : Tu cherches #DefiSalsa ? Tu connais déjà Forró Roots ? Nous sommes là pour toi ! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires) Plus d’info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html](https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project)

Welcome to TechTuesday at HSBXL. It’s where tech enthusiasts hang out, projects get tinkered with, and the occasional debate over the best programming language ensues. Whether you’re an old hand at hacking or just dipping your toes: * **Chats & Code**: Engage in hushed tech tales, showcase your latest digital masterpiece, or simply bask in the mesmerizing rhythm of coders at work. * **Ambient Rhythms**: We curate a backdrop of everything from ambient rock to downtempo electronica. It sets the mood, enhancing the creativity without becoming a distraction. * **Refreshment Protocol**: Club Mate to fuel your creativity, assorted beers for contemplation, and soft drinks for a refreshing pause. Choose your brew. * **Machinery Magic**: Our space boasts more than just computers. Soldering irons hiss and 3D printers hum, telling tales of projects brought to life. * **Knowledge Exchange**: Encountered a tech puzzle? Someone in the room might have just the insight you need. And if you’ve unraveled a digital mystery, consider sharing it. **Note**: The beauty of HSBXL is its welcoming ethos. Member or not, if you’re curious and respectful, you’re one of us. ### Getting to HSBXL HSBXL, the beacon for tech enthusiasts in Brussels, awaits. For your navigational needs, check [here](https://hsbxl.be/enter/). Barrier issues? Broadcast at +32 28804004. For real-time digital dialogues, tap into our [Matrix chatroom](https://matrix.to/#/#hsbxl:matrix.org). ### Bring Along Your tech gear, a project in progress, or simply a mind open to the endless possibilities of tech. That’s TechTuesday at HSBXL. A laid-back evening where tech happens, naturally. See you there.

Welcome! Join these beginner sessions if you are searching for deep connection, and want to learn some basic techniques (from authentic relating and circling) that can support you. Activities may include meditations (to connect to yourself, your body and the other), structured dialogues (in pairs or small groups), exercises about sharing and owning your experience, and much more. There are no prerequisites for these sessions. Just show up as you are. Please add yourself to our whatsapp group to ask questions or to stay informed: https://chat.whatsapp.com/ClH8EhaItZPKU5cSkjkcC7 We look forward to meeting you!

Our traditional "Join & Play" event is on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month. As always, it's free to come & play with us. How does it work ? • The events are open for beginner to advanced gamers. If you're new here they're the perfect gateway to discover what we do! • Those who want to host a game are asked to share in the comments below which game, & for how many players you can run your table. • For others, if you see a game you'd like to join just respond to the host in the comments below and we'll reserve a spot for that game for you. • Don't worry if you're new to boardgames or simply don't know the games being hosted this time around; you can simply show up and the event host will sort out a spot at a table for you! *But please make sure to arrive by 19h30* at the latest *so we can take the time to find you a suitable spot.* • The rules for the games will be explained by the table host before the game starts. No need to study them upfront, although several hosts post a video link to rules or background which can enhance your enjoyment of the game if you have the time to watch beforehand. This is never mandatory, however. ============================================== Games on the night: **\-\-\-\-** [Pandemic](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/30549/pandemic) **\-\-\-\-** Spot 1: Toby (host) Spot 2: Toby +1 Spot 3: Spot 4: **\-\-\-\-** [Sea Dragons](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/374895) **\-\-\-\-** Spot 1: Mislav (host) Spot 2: Spot 3: Spot 4: **\-\-\-\-** [Bamboo](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/351538) **\-\-\-\-** Spot 1: Tristan (host) Spot 2: k1o4n1d Spot 3: Spot 4: **\-\-\-\-** **[Cthulhu: Dark Providence ](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/404509/cthulhu-dark-providence)** **\-\-\-\-** Spot 1: Jeroen (host) Spot 2: Spot 3: Spot 4:

If you have a ball, please bring it... Let's gather at the Parc du Cinquantenaire close to the Tour de Tournai (https://goo.gl/maps/RsxFtTJydq92) and organize a *low-level* football match on the grass. Unless it rains badly as we're about to play, the game is on. Players of any age, weight, sex and size are allowed. Come as you are, at any time after 4pm. IMPORTANT REMINDER -- As Shitty Players, we don't bite or growl when someone misses the ball. We don't do penalties or yellow cards because we're so gentle we don't need them. We vaguely know of the existence of other rules like off-side but we'd rather ignore them than argue about them. We may or may not keep track of the score: this is a game where everyone wins. To help build the Team, come with 2 t-shirts white and black (or similar colors: light grey and dark blue etc). Beer session will follow on the grass, for those who survive till the end. You can also join the Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/176606662846112/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/b/3/600_460870931.jpeg

Spend time in the company of other writers putting pen to paper, or fingers to keyboard. Work on your current project or start something new. If you are fresh out of inspiration a member of the Wordcraft Collective will be ready with a prompt to get you going. You can use that to unlock your creative brain before moving back to your own project or run with it. Who knows where the story will take you? Arrive when you like, leave when you like, or join us for a drink in the bar downstairs afterwards. Location: Pianofabriek, Rue du Fort 35, 1060 Saint-Gilles.

For our fourth meeting, we’ll be reading and discussing The Odyssey by Homer — one of the most famous and influential stories ever written. With a new film set to be released this year, it’s the perfect opportunity to (re)discover the original story before seeing it on the big screen. About the book: After the Trojan War, the Greek hero Odysseus begins his long journey home to Ithaca. But the trip that should take weeks turns into a ten-year odyssey filled with gods, monsters, temptations, and impossible choices. While Odysseus struggles to return home, his wife Penelope and his son Telemachus must face their own challenges as they wait for him in Ithaca. Along the way, the story explores themes of perseverance, loyalty, intelligence, and the desire to return home.

CE SAMEDI 20 JUIN 2026 – SOIRÉE BLANCHE SPÉCIALE CÉLIBATAIRES 🎉 LE DINER BLANC : 19:00 \- 22:30 \(BBQ et/ou AFTERWORK\) \| DAVID LLOYD UCCLE Organisée par Cœur à Cœur **[https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16219](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16219?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwOFRiaGtwMlF6cDNMRk4wUXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4R74o_g49znXaVtFEp01o3MLdc1UdUDlN3YeO2LJtt62ewp4Ac_R1lx2d_DQ_aem_8gIyprr4CqnpoYIeFN-A3Q)** RESERVATION OBLIGATOIRE *** 📍 Deux lieux – Une seule soirée inoubliable ! 🌅 1ère PARTIE : L’AVANT-SOIRÉE au DAVID LLOYD UCCLE (19h00 - 22h30) Drève de Lorraine 41, 1180 Bruxelles Place à l'AVANT-SOIREE : LE DINER BLANC Dans un cadre exceptionnel avec vue sur la piscine, profitez de 2 formules au choix MAIS RESERVATION INDISPENSABLE! Si la meteo n’est pas avec nous, le BBQ s’organisera inside 😊 **[https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16219](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16219?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwOFRiaGtwMlF6cDNMRk4wUXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4R74o_g49znXaVtFEp01o3MLdc1UdUDlN3YeO2LJtt62ewp4Ac_R1lx2d_DQ_aem_8gIyprr4CqnpoYIeFN-A3Q)** *** 🥇 FORMULE GOLD – 35 € BBQ Premium dès 19h : 5 viandes 🍖 + salad bar bio Little Farm 🥗 Un début de soirée dans une ambiance chic et détendue 🎁 Bonus : 1 bon pour une journée découverte du club David Lloyd (valeur exclusive) Accès à la grande soirée au Cactus dès 22h30 💡 Places limitées – Réservation & prépaiement obligatoires ! **[https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16219](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16219?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwOFRiaGtwMlF6cDNMRk4wUXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4R74o_g49znXaVtFEp01o3MLdc1UdUDlN3YeO2LJtt62ewp4Ac_R1lx2d_DQ_aem_8gIyprr4CqnpoYIeFN-A3Q)** *** 🥈 FORMULE SILVER – 10 € Apéro uniquement (1 boisson incluse : vin, bière ou soft 🍷🍺) Qui comprend l’accès à la soirée au Cactus à partir de 22h30 ❌ Pas de repas / Pas de bon découverte 💡 Places limitées – Réservation & prépaiement obligatoires ! **[https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16219](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16219?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwOFRiaGtwMlF6cDNMRk4wUXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR4R74o_g49znXaVtFEp01o3MLdc1UdUDlN3YeO2LJtt62ewp4Ac_R1lx2d_DQ_aem_8gIyprr4CqnpoYIeFN-A3Q)** *** 💃 2ème PARTIE : LA GRANDE SOIRÉE BLANCHE au CACTUS CLUB (22h30 - 04h00) Boulevard du Souverain 147, 1160 Auderghem Tous les participants du David Lloyd recevront un jeton d’accès gratuit pour cette soirée rencontres et musique jusqu’à l’aube 🎶✨ 🥉 FORMULE BRONZE – 5€ & 10€ en prévente (SKIP THE LINE & Garanty pass) OU paiement sur place Accès direct au Cactus Club à partir de 22h30 Idéale si vous ne pouvez pas venir au David Lloyd Uccle Grande soirée rencontres en Live au Cactus : voici le lien pour la soirée uniquement / les infos de la soirée uniquement : [https://fb.me/e/70VbCVHDf](https://fb.me/e/70VbCVHDf) ✅ EN RÉSUMÉ : VOUS CHOISISSEZ VOTRE EXPÉRIENCE ! *** 📍 Adresse : Drève de Lorraine 41, 1180 Bruxelles

**Cinematek : The Arch** 19/06 @ 18h00 Shu Shuen Tang may not be familiar to mainstream movie lovers or even cinephiles of Chinese cinema, but she was actually the first internationally recognized, award-winning independent filmmaker in Hong Kong. In addition, she also happened to be a woman at a time when the Chinese film industry was controlled by studios run by men like the Shaw Brothers. The studios would only finance commercial films … Tang’s debut film, Dong fu ren, was self-financed and shot in Hong Kong on a limited budget. It garnered four Golden Horse Awards in 1971 including Best Actress (Lisa Lu), Best Cinematography, Best Artistic achievement and, most important of all, the Special Jury Prize of Creative Innovation created and awarded to Tang for this film … In the late 1960s, after her studies at USC, Tang returned to Hong Kong to prepare for the shoot of her first feature, Dong fu ren. The film is set in 17th century China; its protagonist, Madame Tung, is a widow for whom a triumphal arch is to be erected by the king to honour her contributions to her village – the arch being an ancient Chinese symbol of honour. A conflict arises when a young officer is billeted in her house and proceeds to show romantic attachment to both Madame Tung and her daughter. Madame Tung must choose between her own desire and her duty as a widow and mother, a situation that foregrounds the cruelty of societal pressure on a woman whose voice has been taken away from her after the passing of her husband … a similar expression of female suppression had never before been seen in Chinese films … Although Tang had been immersed in the American film scene, Dong fu ren does not resemble a Hollywood production as one might expect. “The subject matter is actually very cinematic. When I finished writing the script I gave it to my professor at USC to read, and he said that it was not a filmable script, because it was about the interior feelings of a woman who had no outlet to express them, and the plot had too few characters. But that is exactly why I thought it is good material for the cinema!” Alice Shih, “Cineaction”, no. 94, 2014 [Cinematek](https://cinematek.be/2026-06-19-18-00/dong-fu-ren) [Il Cinema Ritrovato, Fondazione Cineteca di Bologna](https://ilcinemaritrovato.it/en/film/the-arch/) **For Dreamers, Coffee shots, Orezza, eau de Saint-Georges !**

**Our June novel is: *The Eights* by Joanna Miller** **This month’s novel is set during World War I. It’s a 20th-century historical fiction story about friendship and war, with coming-of-age elements and a slightly haunted tone. The book is 384 pages in print and 10 hours and 9 minutes on audiobook.** Oxford, 1920. For the first time in its one-thousand-year history, Oxford University officially admits female students. Burning with dreams of equality, four young women move into neighboring rooms in Corridor 8. Beatrice, Dora, Marianne, and Otto—collectively known as The Eights—come from all walks of life, each driven by their own motives, each holding tight to their secrets, and are thrown into an unlikely, unshakable friendship. Dora was never meant to go to university, but, after losing both her brother and her fiancé on the battlefield, has arrived in their place. Politically-minded Beatrice, daughter of a famous suffragette, sees Oxford as a chance to make her own way - and some friends her own age. Otto was a nurse during the war but is excited to return to her socialite lifestyle in Oxford where she hopes to find distraction from the memories that haunt her. And finally Marianne, the quiet, clever daughter of a village pastor, who has a shocking secret she must hide from everyone, even her new friends, if she is to succeed. Among the historic spires, and in the long shadow of the Great War, the four women must navigate and support one another in a turbulent world in which misogyny is rife, influenza is still a threat, and the ghosts of the Great War don’t always remain dead.

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

Join us for a Discount Tuesday / Choose Your Movie event to see your choice of the A24 thriller THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD or the latest animated adventure in the always great series, TOY STORY 5! Should be a winner either way! Here are details, trailers and our plan for this event: THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD: This thriller from A24 is being called a dark adaptation of the 17th-century ballad Robin Hood's Death. It follows an aged Robin Hood in the hands of a mysterious woman after being critically injured as he grapples with his past life of crime and murder. The film is written / directed by Michael Sarnoski and stars Hugh Jackman, Jodie Comer, Bill Skarsgård, Murray Bartlett and Noah Jupe. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlSDDuWxO_0&t=1s TOY STORY 5: The fifth installment of what is quite possibly the best animated series ever! With something for everyone, this animated adventure faces a new crisis as 8-year old Bonnie has become enamored with the new favorite plaything, a frog-like tablet named Lilypad! The film stars returning cast members Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Tony Hale, John Ratzenberger, Wallace Shawn, Annie Potts, Bonnie Hunt, Keanu Reeves, and Melissa Villaseñor, along with newcomers Greta Lee, Conan O'Brien, Craig Robinson, Matty Matheson, Jeff Bergman, Anna Vocino and Ernie Hudson. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c51ND9Hdbw0 PLAN: For those seeing TOY STORY 5, please purchase your ticket for the 7:00pm showing and meet in the bar area starting at 6:30pm! For those seeing THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD, please purchase your ticket for the 7:10pm showing and meet in the bar area starting at 6:30pm! Discount Tuesday ticket prices are $6 for ROBIN HOOD and $8 for TS5 (because it’s on their Ultra Screen) when you join Marcus Rewards and use the app. Marcus Rewards is FREE and also includes a FREE popcorn on Discount Tuesday showings. Tickets moving FAST so advance ticket purchase as soon as possible is advised! Once you have yours, please list your movie of choice and seat number in the Comments section of this event. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

**Men of Unity** is a safe, welcoming space for men to connect, share, and grow together. In this circle, we explore what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and spiritual awareness in today’s world. Through open dialogue, reflection, and mutual support, we learn to balance strength with compassion, confidence with humility, and action with mindfulness. Whether you’re seeking deeper spiritual connection, personal clarity, or simply a supportive brotherhood, this group invites you to bring your authentic self and grow in community. This week the Men's of Group will meet at Scrambler's - the North Hamilton Road location: 5729 North Hamilton Road Columbus, 43230

Interested? Contact Preston Moore k.preston.moore@gmail.com 614-300-5989 ———————————— Engaging in men’s work is the new way to forge friendships while being open-minded to personal growth. Many men experience healthier relationships, personally and professionally, by engaging in this work. Open Men’s Group is a container for men to share vulnerably without receiving judgment or feedback. We believe that emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate, and purpose-driven men will help heal some of society’s deepest wounds. We support the powerful brilliance of men and we are willing to look at, and take full responsibility for, the pain we are also capable of creating – and suffering. We care deeply about men, our families, communities, and the planet. Visit ManKind Project USA to discover more. https://mkpusa.org/

Join us as we discuss our June pick: Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider! Book description: Even though she's not one of them, Brynn has spent her life among the Alaha, training to be a guard and waiting for the chance to attend the annual market hosted by the Kenta–the very same people who exiled her adopted community to a life at sea. Going to the market is a rite of passage eagerly anticipated by all young guards, but Brynn does not anticipate breaking a century-long peace treaty while there. Nor does she plan for the intense encounter with an enemy soldier that now threatens to unwind the fragile coexistence between their people–and everything Brynn once believed about herself to be true. Brynn's loyalty to the Alaha is tested when the truth of her identity is brought to light by this soldier who's taken an oath to bring her back to where she belongs. Narrowly escaping death on the violent high seas, Brynn's connection to the Alaha is further tested when she learns about the world of magic she's been denied. She was once certain of her fate and where she belonged, but the dark, knowing eyes of this stranger have her questioning everything, including her heart. Packed with knife fights and seafaring adventure, METAL SLINGER is the smash-hit start to the romantic fantasy duology, the Fire & Metal series