The passion cove

The Cove - Dedicated to Saving Dolphins and Whales

2013.03.08 03:50 thunderon The Cove - Dedicated to Saving Dolphins and Whales

Inspired my the documentary The Cove, this subreddit is dedicated to stopping the dolphin slaughter and whaling that occurs around the world.
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2021.12.19 22:57 Yu-Gi-Oh ! - Joey the Passion community

Community for the game Joey the Passion, for that game and that game alone. Share decks, tips, tricks, hacks and more !
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2020.06.02 21:04 The Cove

This is the official subreddit for all things Lucid Creations Media. The sub is currently closed, locked, and privated. It could be open again in the future. Just keep an eye out.
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2024.05.12 10:00 archetipo72 Is June a good time to visit Sardinia What is the weather and how warm is the water, is it warm enough to swim

Why June in Sardinia

Weather Overview

June is an ideal time to visit Sardinia due to its pleasant weather. The average temperature ranges from 72°F to 82°F, offering a perfect blend of warmth and comfort for outdoor activities.
The island experiences long sunny days in June, providing ample opportunities for exploring the stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes. The weather is generally dry, with minimal rainfall, ensuring a delightful vacation experience.
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Warm Water for Swimming
In June, the waters around Sardinia start to warm up, making it an excellent month for swimming and water activities. The sea temperature hovers around 70°F to 75°F, ideal for those looking to enjoy a refreshing dip or indulge in water sports.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island beckon visitors to immerse themselves in its beauty and tranquility. Whether you prefer relaxing on the beach or diving into the azure waters, June offers the perfect conditions for aquatic adventures.

Festivals and Events

June in Sardinia is not just about the weather; it also marks the beginning of various cultural festivals and events. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local traditions by attending festivities such as Sagra di Sant'Efisio or Cavalcata Sarda.
These celebrations showcase the rich heritage of the island through vibrant parades, traditional costumes, music, and delicious local cuisine. Exploring these cultural events provides a unique insight into Sardinia's history and customs, adding depth to your travel experience.

Outdoor Activities

With pleasant temperatures and sunny skies, June is perfect for engaging in a variety of outdoor activities on Sardinia. From hiking along scenic trails to cycling through charming villages, there are endless opportunities to explore the island's natural beauty.
Visitors can also embark on boat tours to discover hidden coves and pristine beaches or try their hand at windsurfing and sailing in the clear waters. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or seeking relaxation amidst nature, June offers something for everyone on this enchanting Mediterranean island.

June Weather Insights

Weather Patterns

June in Sardinia brings warmer temperatures compared to the earlier spring months. The weather tends to be sunny with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
The average temperature in June ranges from 23°C to 27°C, providing a pleasant climate for tourists. The island experiences longer daylight hours, allowing visitors to make the most of their time exploring the stunning beaches and historical sites.

Water Temperature

During June, the sea around Sardinia starts to warm up, reaching temperatures between 21°C to 24°C. This makes it suitable for swimming and enjoying water sports along the picturesque coastline.
The crystal-clear waters of Sardinia offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Tourists can indulge in snorkeling or simply relax on the beaches while soaking up the Mediterranean sun.

Ideal Swimming Conditions

With water temperatures hovering around 24°C, June provides optimal conditions for swimming in Sardinia. The warm waters are inviting and comfortable, attracting beach enthusiasts and water lovers alike.
Tourists can take advantage of the pleasant weather and sea temperatures to engage in various aquatic activities such as diving, paddleboarding, or simply taking a leisurely swim in the turquoise waters.

Sea Temperature for Swimming

Swimming Season

June marks the beginning of the swimming season in Sardinia, with the average sea temperature gradually rising to a comfortable level for swimmers. The water along the coast starts to warm up, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy a refreshing swim.

Sea Conditions

During June, the sea conditions in Sardinia are generally favorable for swimming. The water temperatures begin to increase, providing a pleasant experience for swimmers seeking to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. The coast enjoys warm temperatures, inviting visitors to indulge in aquatic activities.

Swimming Experience

In June, swimmers can expect cooler waters compared to peak summer months but still enjoy relatively high temperatures that make swimming enjoyable. The average high sea temperature during this month allows for a comfortable and relaxing swimming experience, perfect for unwinding by the beach.

Best Beaches in Early Summer

Warm Waters for Swimming

Sardinia experiences warm temperatures in June, making it an excellent time to visit for beach enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters around the island offer ideal conditions for swimming, with temperatures ranging from 72°F to 77°F.
The island's beaches, known for their pristine beauty, attract summer crowds seeking relaxation and water activities. Tourists can enjoy the stunning beaches of Sardinia without the peak season rush, making June a perfect time to bask in the sun and dip into the warm Mediterranean Sea.

Beach Activities and Attractions

In June, visitors to Sardinia can indulge in various beach activities besides swimming. From sunbathing on the soft sands to exploring underwater marine life through snorkeling, the island offers a plethora of options for beach lovers.
The warm waters provide an inviting environment for water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking. Tourists can also take boat tours along the coastline to discover hidden coves and secluded beaches that showcase Sardinia's natural beauty.

Enjoying Tranquility and Serenity

June in Sardinia presents an opportunity to experience the island's beaches in a more serene setting. With fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months, visitors can relish the tranquility of secluded spots along the coastline.
Exploring lesser-known beaches allows travelers to connect with nature and appreciate the unspoiled landscapes that define Sardinia's charm. Away from the bustling crowds, one can unwind under the Mediterranean sun and immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of these hidden gems.

Outdoor Fun and Events

Water Activities

Swimming in Sardinia during June is a delightful experience as the water temperatures range from 72°F to 77°F. The warm waters are perfect for aquatic adventures like snorkeling and diving.
Sardinia's crystal-clear waters offer an ideal setting for various water activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. These activities allow outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the island's natural wonders.

Land Adventures

For those seeking land-based adventures, Sardinia boasts diverse terrain that caters to different interests. From biking through picturesque landscapes to exploring the island's rugged terrain on foot, there is something for everyone.
Exploring Sardinia's inland areas provides a unique opportunity to witness the island's rich cultural heritage. Visitors can join guided tours or venture out on their own to discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Safety Precautions

When engaging in outdoor activities in Sardinia, it is essential to take necessary safety precautions. Remember to apply sunscreen regularly, especially during peak hours when the sun's rays are strongest.
Being aware of ocean currents is crucial, particularly for those participating in aquatic adventures. It is advisable to follow safety guidelines and heed any warning posts along the coastline.

Sardinian June Cuisine

Local Delicacies

Sardinia in June offers a delightful array of local delicacies that reflect the island's rich culinary heritage. Indulge in dishes like Culurgiones, a type of filled pasta, or Porceddu, roasted suckling pig.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Sardinian cuisine by trying Pane Carasau, a traditional crispy flatbread enjoyed with various toppings. Experience the freshness of seafood with dishes like Bottarga, dried fish roe often grated over pasta for a unique taste.

Traditional Festivals

June in Sardinia is not just about great weather; it also marks the celebration of traditional festivals that highlight the island's cultural richness. Participate in events like Sant'Efisio, a colorful procession honoring the patron saint of Cagliari.
Explore the Girotonno festival in Carloforte, dedicated to celebrating tuna fishing traditions. Witness locals showcasing their skills in preparing and cooking tuna-based dishes while enjoying live music and entertainment.

Vineyard Visits

Embark on a journey through Sardinia's picturesque vineyards during June to discover the island's thriving wine culture. Visit renowned wineries such as Sella & Mosca to sample exquisite varieties like Cannonau and Vermentino.
Savor the unique terroir-driven wines of Sardinia while learning about the winemaking process from passionate experts. Enjoy wine tastings amidst stunning landscapes, enhancing your overall culinary experience on the island.

Stay and Travel Tips

Accommodation Options

Travelers visiting Sardinia in June have a plethora of accommodation options ranging from luxurious beach resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts. It's advisable to book in advance due to the peak tourist season.
Exploring the island's diverse landscapes is best done by renting a car, allowing visitors the freedom to go off the beaten path and discover hidden gems. Alternatively, public transportation is available for those who prefer not to drive.

Weather and Packing Essentials

June in Sardinia offers delightful weather with average temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F). The island experiences long sunny days, perfect for visitors looking to soak up the Mediterranean sun.
When packing for your trip, essentials include lightweight clothing, comfortable footwear for exploring, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Don't forget your swimwear as the crystal-clear waters of Sardinia beckon travelers for a refreshing dip.

Beach Etiquette and Safety Tips

Sardinia boasts stunning beaches with pristine turquoise waters that tempt visitors year-round. To make the most of your beach experience, remember to respect local customs by keeping noise levels down and disposing of trash properly.
For those planning on swimming in the sea, it's essential to be mindful of safety precautions. Always swim in designated areas with lifeguards present and be cautious of strong currents.

Nightlife and Festivities

Nightlife

Sardinia's nightlife scene is vibrant, with numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties that cater to a diverse crowd. You can enjoy live music, DJ sets, and traditional dance performances.
The island comes alive after sunset, offering a mix of laid-back beach bars and energetic nightclubs. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, perfect for socializing and experiencing the local culture.

Festivities

Exploring Sardinia in June means immersing yourself in a variety of festivities that celebrate the island's rich traditions and history. From religious processions to colorful folk festivals, there's always something exciting happening.
During this time, you can witness traditional dances, taste authentic Sardinian cuisine at food fairs, and marvel at stunning fireworks displays lighting up the night sky. The locals' passion for their heritage shines through these events.

Beach Parties

June in Sardinia also marks the beginning of the peak season for beach parties along the picturesque coastal areas. These gatherings combine music, dancing, and bonfires against the backdrop of breathtaking sunsets.
Joining a beach party allows you to mingle with fellow travelers and locals while enjoying refreshing drinks under the starlit sky. The warm evening breeze adds to the magical ambiance of these gatherings.

Cultural Events

For history enthusiasts, Sardinia offers a plethora of cultural events in June that delve into the island's ancient ruins and historical sites. Guided tours to archaeological sites provide insight into Sardinia's fascinating past.
Visiting these sites during special events often includes theatrical performances or reenactments that bring history to life. It's an immersive way to connect with the island's rich heritage and appreciate its significance.

Sustainable Travel Advice

Best Time to Visit Sardinia

June is considered one of the ideal months to visit Sardinia due to the pleasant weather and warm waters. The island experiences long sunny days, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.

Weather Conditions in June

During June, Sardinia enjoys warm temperatures ranging from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C). The island experiences minimal rainfall during this month, ensuring clear skies and ample sunshine for travelers to enjoy various outdoor adventures.

Warm Water Temperatures

In June, the waters surrounding Sardinia start to warm up, with temperatures averaging around 72°F (22°C) along the coastline. This makes it an excellent time for swimming and water activities as the sea becomes invitingly warm.

Sustainable Travel Practices

When visiting Sardinia in June, consider adopting sustainable travel practices to minimize your environmental impact. Opt for eco-friendly accommodations, support local businesses, and reduce plastic waste by using reusable items. By respecting the local environment and culture, you contribute to the preservation of Sardinia's natural beauty for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is June a good time to visit Sardinia?

June is an excellent time to visit Sardinia due to pleasant weather, warm sea temperatures for swimming, and various outdoor activities and events available during this period.

What is the weather like in Sardinia in June?

In June, Sardinia enjoys warm and sunny weather with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), making it ideal for exploring the island and relaxing on the beaches.

How warm is the water in Sardinia in June?

The sea temperature in Sardinia during June typically ranges from 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C), providing comfortable conditions for swimming and enjoying water activities.

Are there beaches suitable for swimming in early summer in Sardinia?

Sardinia offers numerous beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming in early summer. Some top choices include Spiaggia del Principe, Cala Goloritzé, and La Pelosa Beach.

What are some outdoor activities and events available in Sardinia in June?

During June, visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, sailing, snorkeling, and attending local festivals such as the Sant'Efisio Parade and the Cavalcata Sarda horse race. The island offers a vibrant mix of cultural and recreational experiences.
submitted by archetipo72 to CostaReiSardinia [link] [comments]


2024.05.10 04:30 crashandbland The lonely muscle

Not lit so heavy sits the darkend hart. Long since closed to passion and pierced and poisoned by a mournful part.
Yet still beating is the pump where love can grow through sickly vents and warn out walls though damaged aches to grow.
Faster beating now when kindly words are said. Yet left fragile and scared can with just so little room love left can hope be spared.
Through looks and words and touch all thrilling and adorned by fear A soft and distant sound so familiar and coved in dark shroud can that hart hear.
Another beats from darkness rasping as the damage borne plays from within the beat as song to my supprise my hart now fast and flutterd less heavy begins to sing along.
submitted by crashandbland to poets [link] [comments]


2024.05.07 01:49 TheContentCove Welcome to TheContentCove! Let’s Start Our Journey Together

Hello everyone,
I’m thrilled to welcome you to TheContentCove! This is a space dedicated to all of us who cherish thoughtful discussions, engaging stories, and a community-driven approach to blogging. Whether you are here to share your latest article, seek feedback, or simply enjoy a good read, you’ve found the right place.
What to Expect:
I encourage each of you to post an introduction, share your interests, and let us know what you’re passionate about. This is more than just a subreddit; it’s a community.
Looking forward to all the stories we’ll share and the discussions we’ll ignite. Let's make TheContentCove a vibrant hub of interaction and inspiration!
Happy posting!
submitted by TheContentCove to TheContentCove [link] [comments]


2024.04.29 22:25 DismalPerformer1551 RoCove

🌟 Welcome to RoCove, a vibrant community where Roblox enthusiasts come together to engage in various activities and opportunities. In our server, members have the chance to:
🏅 Progress through ranks from 1 to 5, which are based on their skill level in Roblox development. This allows for recognition and a sense of achievement as members continue to grow and improve.
🎮 Take part in development competitions that challenge their creativity and skill, providing a platform to showcase their talent and learn from others in the community.
🛠️ Access valuable support and assistance for Roblox Studio, whether it's troubleshooting, guidance on specific features, or sharing tips and tricks for effective game development.
💼 Connect with others to either offer their services for hire or seek talented individuals to commission for their projects, fostering collaboration and professional opportunities within the community.
RoCove is a place where Roblox developers of all levels can come together to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for game development on the Roblox platform. Join us and be part of a thriving community dedicated to creativity, collaboration, and skill development!
Join us now: discord.gg/7EKGZC5kPu
submitted by DismalPerformer1551 to F3X [link] [comments]


2024.04.29 03:27 WzlBabe Definitely no cat on the table where cats Definitely aren't allowed

Definitely no cat on the table where cats Definitely aren't allowed
But that IS his portrait in the upper right, supervising the cows.
submitted by WzlBabe to ThereIsnoCat [link] [comments]


2024.04.27 01:12 critical_courtney [Hot Off The Press] — Chapter Three

[Hot Off The Press] — Chapter Three
https://preview.redd.it/68h5xxfmowwc1.jpg?width=1410&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=59d6fa3fb76a0953bf46da89d1853b7da00cc7d8
My Discord
Buy me a cup of coffee (if you want)
Previous Chapter
Chapter Three:
(Dawn)
The ride to my Craftsman bungalow in Brighton Corner didn’t take but 10 minutes, which wasn’t bad from East Bayside. I’d never been able to afford living on the peninsula and after several years of renting in Deering, Woodfords, and the Back Cove, I finally found a house on June Street that was perfect.
From the moment I saw it, I knew the home had everything I wanted, from a gated yard bordering a small patch of woods to a front yard garden just waiting to be nursed back to health through careful attention and love.
“Wow. You’ve got quite a pretty little house there. I can only imagine what it costs to rent,” Frankie said, eyes widening as we pulled into the driveway.
June Street was tucked away on Portland’s west side not far from Shay’s, one of the less popular food store chains that was doing all it could to survive the onslaught of Grocery Basket and Henneford Supermarket (Hennie’s as the locals sometimes called it).
Trees surrounded the entire street that only had about four houses on it, counting mine.
A great-horned owl hooted in the oak tree that leaned a little closer to my covered porch every year.
“Oh, I don’t rent. This pretty little parlor is all mine,” I said, beaming. “Well — it’s the bank’s until I pay it off in 25 years, but semantics.”
Frankie turned to me and whistled.
“Owning property in Portland before 30? Who did I go home with tonight? A trust fund child From Away?”
I snickered.
“Partially right. I am From Away. I definitely don’t have a trust fund. But how do you know I’m under 30?”
Frankie Dee shrugged and got out of my car.
“I dunno, bub. Just always been good at guessing ages. You still seem like you’re a couple of years away from that threshold.”
Walking around the vehicle and leaning on its hood, I crossed my arms and raised an eyebrow.
“Flatterer. Save your compliments. I already took you home, didn’t I? And don’t tell me you’re one of those women who think life is all downhill once your age no longer starts with a two.”
I saw Frankie eyeing my garden full of sprouted daffodils, perky and defiant of any remaining April snow or chill. I loved that about those stubborn little flowers.
For a moment, Frankie bore a more melancholic expression as she stared at nothing in particular.
“Ha. No, life isn’t all downhill after 30. Age doesn’t mean much to me. In my eyes, there’s just work that needs to be done. Whether you’re 20 or 60, the work ain’t going anywhere.”
Holy hell, who killed this woman’s spirit? I thought, elbowing my new friend in the ribs, which elicited a small stammer of surprise and was quickly followed by a breathless giggle.
“Go back to complimenting my house,” I said. “I’ve put a lot of work into it.”
Frankie Dee snorted and looked over at the two-story home I’d pumped more blood, sweat, and cash into than I cared to admit. It was still an almost 70-year-old home, but the fresh grey paint I added last fall still looked pretty damn good.
“I like how your window frames are red to match the front door,” Frankie said, taking time to look over my house. “And the little stone steps painted like flowers leading up to the front door are really cute. This place just seems so. . . whole, ya know? Carefully put together piece by piece.”
Well, shit. I’d jokingly told her to compliment my home, and she’d done just that. Only her words had gone past inspiring pride and instead left even me a little emotionally hamstrung as I fought a growing blush.
Still, there was a part of me that enjoyed the attention on a place I’d worked for years to fix up. A human being was here right in front of me appreciating something I’d busted my ass to make nice. Month after month of YouTube tutorials, trips to House Depot, and weekend warrior projects that almost left me feeling a little too white picket fence at times.
And Frankie’s praise wasn’t just internet comments that felt good for a few minutes and then vanished like cotton candy accidentally dropped into a puddle. They were warm words that were being said to my face, by a really cute girl that I wanted to bring inside and kiss.
Instead of doing that, I found myself asking, “You want to see the back? I’ll show you my kid.”
Frankie Dee just stood there blinking.
“You have a kid?”
I nodded, grinning mischievously and pointing with my chin. We walked over to a gate on the side of my house as motion lights kicked on, bathing us in pale beams. A six-foot wooden privacy fence surrounded my backyard on the sides. It transitioned to ranch fencing and chicken wire on the side facing the woods.
My backyard wasn’t huge by any means. A small chicken coop I’d built from scrap wood a neighbor gladly gave me sat close to the house. I bruised my thumbs so much that weekend that I had trouble moving them for days afterward. And the curses I hissed that day probably killed at least a rose bush or two elsewhere in the neighborhood.
Frankie followed me as more motion lights kicked on, and a small bleating sound echoed from the back porch. That’s when she came into view, half running/half hobbling in the way my kid often did.
A black and white pygmy goat that didn’t even come up to my knees bleated happily and bumped her head into my leg. She was entirely snow-colored except for splotches of black on her front legs and over her eyes.
“Frankie Dee, I want you to meet Billie,” I said, picking up the 17-pound goat.
This was her true test. I watched for signs of disgust or flinching, but in two seconds Frankie’s face went from curious about the noise to full-on adoration of my fluffy child.
“Oh my goodness! She’s just a little guy!” she cooed and came over to pet her.
Billie wasn’t shy. She sniffed and lightly nibbled on Frankie’s fingers with her lips. She only had back teeth, so it was actually difficult for her to bite you unless you stuck your fingers in her mouth like a moron.
Frankie oo’ed and aw’ed over my goat for another couple of minutes before she looked up at me with a sneer.
“Wait. . . Billie? As in, Billie the Kid?”
The grin that snuck over my lips was nothing less than pure goofball. And Frankie Dee loved every bit of it. I could tell by the way she shook her head looking at the ground.
“Come on. I’ll introduce you to the Fates,” I said, setting Billie down and walking my guest over to the chicken coop.
She followed and watched as I opened the latch and slowly unveiled three Buff Orpington hens who clucked a little but otherwise remained on their nests of straw and pine shavings, staring at us. Most of their feathers were a light gold color with their necks taking on more of a brownish hue. Their combs were as red as my front door.
“Hey there, ladies. Don’t mind me. Just showing you off to my new friend,” I said, letting Frankie peek in for a closer look.
“Oh wow! You’ve got some stout ladies in there,” she giggled. “Fresh eggs?”
I nodded.
“That, and they help control ticks and snakes in the backyard.”
My new friend turned to me and managed to fight her fluster just long enough to ask, “So, if I stay the night, does that mean I get scrambled eggs in the morning?”
I raised an eyebrow and asked, “Are you staying the night?”
She shook her head.
“With a stranger? Sorry, no. I don’t care how pretty she is. I’m not staying the night with someone I’ve known for less time than it’d take me to watch ‘Return of the King.’”
Leaning against the chicken coop, I batted my eyelashes at Frankie and said with the sweetest voice I could muster, “But what if I put on ‘Return of the King?’ Would you stay the night then?” It was almost cartoonish the way I asked with a leering smirk.
“Theatrical edition?” Frankie asked, sounding entirely serious.
“Yeah,” I replied.
“No.”
I frowned.
“Extended edition?” she asked, again appearing deliberate.
“Sure.”
“Still no,” Frankie said, laughing.
I shook my head and led the newest book club member inside my house after petting Billie some more.
My living room is wide open and consists mostly of a corner sofa and a small television perched on an antique chest I thought looked rustic.
A blue and white rug stretched out from under my couch for several feet before it surrendered to a hardwood floor.
In the corner, a petrified tree stump sits on a thin black rug. It’s covered in purple and silver candles that surround a tiny, hand-sized cauldron filled with tiny bones, smoky quartz, and crow feathers. The cauldron rested on a wooden case containing my Wise Goat Tarot cards. An incense holder carved in the shape of a raven sat on the very back of the stump.
The shrine immediately drew Frankie Dee’s stare, and I greeted my visitor with her second test of the night, watching her eyes for immediate disapproval. But I was greeted more with curiosity than anything as she turned to me.
“My shrine to The Morrigan,” I said, shrugging.
“Who is that?” Frankie asked.
“Celtic goddess of war and destiny,” I said. “I work with her most frequently.”
Frankie nodded slowly, looking back at the altar as she rubbed her chin. I couldn’t quite read her expression.
“You’re, what, Wiccan?” she asked.
I scrunched my face and shook my head.
“I prefer to just call myself a witch or a practicing pagan if you want a term that’s a little less halloween-ish,” I said, shrugging again.
Frankie Dee’s mouth is a straight line for a moment before she mutters, “fascinating,” in her best Hank McCoy impression. Though, I doubt that was her intent.
Walking over to the altar, I picked up one of the feathers from the cauldron and turned to face my new friend.
“I learned most of my starting craft practices from my grandmother. It drove my father mad,” I said fighting a flinch at imagining his voice. “But he can fuck off. I loved every moment I had with her and think about her each day I light these candles.”
My heart stirs anytime I get to talk about the craft. It feels like the right kind of defiance, and that pride swells with each episode of Dawn’s Divinations I record in the morning. My guest grew quiet as I talked.
And soon I’d have a column in the Portland Lighthouse-Journal, reaching a whole new audience of readers who will hopefully start asking bigger questions with their lives. My meeting with the paper’s publisher and managing editor tomorrow to sign the contract was the most important thing on my calendar this month.
Frankie took a step closer to my altar and smiled, putting a hand on my shoulder.
“You’re all fired up and passionate. Kind of adds a sexy new layer to the lady who took me home tonight,” she said with the full confidence of someone fully expecting to be kissed. I have no clue where she pulled it from, but it does things to me as I lean closer.
“Gotta say. You’re talking an awful lot of game for someone within smooching range,” I said.
Her eyes widened, and I watched the deer in the headlights look overtake a woman who’d only just managed to get a single flirtation out before receiving returning fire. Fuck, Frankie swerved between the lanes of “flirt” and “freeze” like a crazed driver, and all I wanted to do was throw her on the couch and climb on top of the blonde trapped in the full frenzy of gay panic.
With surprising strength, I watched Frankie Dee move her lips closer to mine. It was daring and a bold play for someone who I could paralyze with a stray smile. And yet, I got the feeling she wasn’t like that all the time. I sensed an audacious flavor of strength in this woman. She could waltz into any boardroom or public meeting and say things I’d have to practice for a week to not lose my nerve over.
It’s just pretty girls that do her in, I thought, taking a moment to appreciate the warmth and desire radiating from Frankie’s lips.
I closed my eyes and finally united our lips like I’d been wanting to since I first laid eyes on our newest book club member at the bar.
Trying not to sound cliche, I quickly realized Frankie was wearing cherry chapstick. And she was so soft and ready for me. The way she seemed to drink me in, the way she pressed her body against mine, and the way she groaned when I took her bottom lip between my teeth, all let me know it’d been a long time since anyone had done this to her. Was no one interested in this incredibly cute blonde, or had she simply been too busy to allow someone to treasure her?
Frankie Dee didn’t hesitate to let me take control of the kiss and set a tempo. The truth was, she seemed so grateful to have my lips on hers that I doubted she’d object to much in the moment.
I deepened the kiss and moved us over to the couch where Frankie let me lay her down and climb on top while she cupped my face in her hands. Warmth built in my core as she ran her fingers through my hair, found where I’d tied the bandana, undid it and then tossed the thin fabric aside so she could rub the back of my head and neck more freely.
All of that elicited a moan from yours truly, and Frankie’s body started to hum like the neon sign of a 24/7 diner.
Running her fingers over my ass and squeezing it, I felt a shiver ride halfway up my spine.
“If you want to do things like that, we’d best move this to the bedroom,” I hissed as Frankie Dee started to kiss my neck, and moisture built in the other place I wanted her lips to be.
“Uh. . . huh,” she managed in between kisses when we fought for air.
We stumbled through the dim hallway, Frankie’s shoulder bumping the wall and threatening to knock over a photo of sunrise over Casco Bay.
And then we were on my queen bed, spread out over a red and black duvet. I looked into the hungry brown eyes of my partner for the night and found myself smiling, butterflies doing somersaults in my tummy. She didn’t even take a breath before pulling me down to nibble on my collarbone. In response, I moaned and pushed my pelvis into hers for harder contact, cursing the pants on Frankie that kept me from feeling her through the fabric.
Loud bleating from outside brought me back to reality as I sat up and cursed.
“I’m so sorry. I think I forgot to lock up the chicken coop,” I said.
Catching her breath and coming down from the heat we were building, Frankie Dee almost groaned in protest as I got up from the bed.
“I’ll be right back,” I said. “How about, to make up for the momentary disruption, I’ll walk back into the room sans dress?”
The blonde woman in my bed honest-to-gods snapped her teeth in my direction, and I found myself lit with fire anew.
Turning to go, I looked back over my shoulder for just a moment.
“Oh, I had your consent to do the thing we were about to do, right? Just wanted to make sure.”
With her eyes suddenly drooping, Frankie nodded. And then she yawned, which caused me to turn back around and cross my arms.
“Well, I’m sorry you found our activities so dull, Frankie,” I said, grinning and leaning against the door frame.
She rubbed her eyes and then shook her head in a desperate bid not to look exhausted.
“I’m sorry. I was at the office at 5 a.m. this morning for an interview, and your bed is fucking comfy. But I’ll be SO ready when you get back,” Frankie said.
Holy shit. Who arrives at the office that early? I thought, fighting a frown. It’s already midnight, and she came straight from work at 7 tonight.
Pushing those thoughts aside, I ran outside to close the chicken coop, made sure Billie’s water was full and accessible, and came back in.
Taking a deep breath in the hallway, I stripped to my black bra and panties, sauntering back into the bedroom, trying hard not to leap at Frankie on the bed to resume our rather explicit activities.
“Now. . . where were we?” I asked in as saucy of a voice as I could produce.
When I didn’t get an immediate response, I thought, Damn. She’s frozen in awe at the sight of me. No doubt about it, Dawn. You’ve still got it.
Light snoring immediately shattered my inner monologue as I looked more closely at the bed to find my partner. . . entirely passed out.
Motherfucker! I thought. I either really did bore her, or she truly was exhausted after working a 14-hour shift.
Scanning the bags under her eyes, I sighed.
“For the sake of my ego, I’m going to assume it’s the latter,” I muttered, finding a fuzzy white blanket I stole from an ex named Brittany, and covering my date for the night. My incredibly cute and incredibly frustrating date.
Changing into my comfy pajamas and turning out the lights, I decided to bunk on the couch tonight. It took a while to fall asleep as all my effort went into not thinking about what we’d been doing on this very couch just minutes ago.
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2024.04.26 13:40 HuWeiliu Full Q&A Answers

CA_Pingu📷OP Today at 11:03 PM Greetings! Thank you all for your questions and for joining us yesterday for the live Q&A with our Design team! We hope you had as much fun as we did! As promised, here are the answers in writing for those who were unable to join, along with some additional answers to questions that we didn't quite have time for yesterday.
  1. u/Zag After the Thrones of decay’s release, will you post a roadmap for the future of the game like you did last year? I love roadmaps (like everyone I think) and with all the turmoil around creative assembly and total war, it would be nice to have a little stability and perspective on the future of the game Rich: As we've said back near Christmas, and repeated again a month or so ago when we announced how we'd be splitting up Thrones into 3 packs, we'll absolutely have this conversation about what's next after we've released Thrones next week, and give it all the right focus it deserves. But just to reassure you, the team and I are already hard at work on what’s coming next and beyond; we have plenty more we want to add to the game and will be talking about this in due course!
  2. u/Trazyn the Dripfinite If ToD sells, will the future dlc's follow the same selling format? I.E. each lord is separate, buy a pack for cheaper. This is a good format and I think it is very appreciated in the community. I have been hesitant to buy other dlcs because the other race included was not one i liked. The separate lord format gave me peace of mind for this, even though I'm going to buy the pack anyway. I know in some post, it said this was going to be a one-time thing to experiment, but I feel like the community would feel more secure if this was the future standard. Rich: It's great to hear that the format of Thrones of Decay is one that you like! I know we all have our favourite characters and races in the Warhammer world. This was a new approach for us here at CA in how we have put Thrones of Decay together for you, and we have some other ideas which we may talk about at some point to see what you think of them too. But ultimately, we want to create content going forward that our players and community enjoy, so nothing is set in stone and we will be continuing to listen very carefully to all the feedback that you share with us.
  3. u/seed How many Landmarks did you guys add for Patch 5.0 and how many ideas for landmarks do you guys have? Will: We usually do a handful, I think we added around 6 or 7 this time around? There are two main ways Landmarks are designed really, top-down and bottom-up. Either we start with a bit of inspiration from a book or map source (quite a few landmarks came from seeing a cool name on a map!) or we set out with a design goal and find a landmark to serve that. We implement the functional side then work with the art team to boil down that landmark into a tiny icon (not always easy! I think the Li Temple Landmark in Cathay went through 5 revisions before we were happy!).
  4. u/AcMaiden ToD campaigns looking crazy strong. When will Legendary be hard again? Paul: We're aware of feedback on these matters and are investigating potential changes on the topic of Campaign Difficulty, and contemplating adding more campaign options regarding confederation matters. However, it's very early to give any concrete details on upcoming changes.
  5. u/luker666 Will there be a visual rework to one of the lores of magic in 5.0? Ben: Yes, we will be reworking the Lore of Life!
  6. u/bleizh will there be the spirit of grungni in ToD ? wether in a mount option or in campaign mechanic ? Rich: Yes, the Spirit of Grungni features as a part of the content of Thrones of Decay for Malakai to make use of in battle as an army ability and in campaign as his roving horde settlement from where to explore the world. **As a side note (and typical of Malakai and his mad cap plans), it seems the Spirit of Grungi has been enabled at launch to all users of WH3. This will subsequently be put back in order via a hotfix to only be accessible for players than own the Thrones of Decay DLC.
  7. u/Loken About the Ironside Repeaters? I think a question on a lot of people's minds is whether the Devs can comment on this situation? The Repeater animations are still in use for the Ironsides in the recent Elspeth gameplay video, as well as their unique Repeater unit cards for both the regular and Amethyst Armory variants. Is there any chance we'll get the Repeater Ironsides in some limited capacity, such as Regiments of Renown, or are they completely off the table now? Sean: We did trial the units to use repeater rifles but in practice it dramatically changed the identity of the Empire gun lines, we felt it was no longer authentic to the playstyle of the Empire or the Warhammer IP. As we try to grant earlier access to builds and share more of our development in progress there will inevitably be other instances of seeing something that doesn’t quite make the final cut. We try a lot of ideas out before we settle on the final iteration.
  8. u/AwesomeHPT It’s been mentioned that the Nuln and Amethyst Ironsides can engage in melee combat. How well do they fare compared to Empire melee infantry? Also is there a fixed limit to how many Amethyst units you can recruit? Or can you recruit as many as you want as long as you have schematics to increase the unit cap similar to the Chaos Dwarf’s Hell-forge mechanic? Ben: The Nuln Ironsides are a bit more robust in melee, owing to their higher tier and better training. Whilst not better in the melee department than an Empire Swordsman, their armour gives them a more defensive profile. Amethyst Ironsides on the other hand are more heavily armoured and can really hold their own in melee, eclipsing Empire Swordsmen in performance!
  9. u/Oh_Man[TFE] What was the most challenging part of designing Thrones of Decay? And what was the most fun part? Rich: For me the most fun and challenging part of any DLC is coming up with the initial roster of characters and units. Getting to dig through Warhammer's rich lore is always a treat for me and finding somethings that had either slipped my mind or are genuinely new. Then coming to make the decision on what stays and what goes is always a tough one, where the team and I push to get in as many fun and exciting things as possible. Likewise going back to past content is always an interesting one, in this case three races that we've touched over the years. Trying to find the right gameplay for the Great Book of Grudges in particular was one that we all wracked our heads over for a while, in trying to get the right blend of thematics and turn-by-turn challenge. I think we landed on a pretty decent end result, but you can tell us if that's true or not when you get your hands on it! (edited)
  10. [11:05 PM]@Xenomorph159 What is your favorite unit coming in the update? Ignoring the big hitters like the Legendary Lords and race changes, what are your guys' favorite general units you've made for ToD? Personally I might be more excited for the new Snipers for the Empire so I wanted to know what you guys are most excited to see us play with Ben: The Thunderbarge Will: The Grudge Settler Gyrocopters (They have trollhammer torpedoes!) Sean: I promise I’m not copying Ben’s homework, but the Thunderbarge too Rich: Little Ned Nurgling, part of Epidemius + Mechanical Steed Paul: Knights of the Black Rose. The name, the style and Aesthetics of the unit is incredibly appealing. "I speak Spanish to God, Italian to women, French to men, and German to my horse." Steve: Toad Dragon for me. I shall call him Pickle, and he shall be MINE!
  11. u/Sapien643 The addition of the Shield Wall formation for the Dwarfs in ToD is awesome! Are there plans to expand on this mechanic with more formations across more races? Thank you. Will: Formations have been a staple of Total War for a long time, but they've proven to be a large challenge to fit into the scope of Warhammer. With the increasing complexity of the game, layers of conditional passives and active abilities, we've generally shied away from them on the grounds that they are visually impressive but finicky to implement and communicate. The game is very reliant on a core entity level simulation loop that leaves a lot of fuzzy edges. The squad and entity level decision making tends to function at its best when saddled with as few as possible constraints and adjusting things like the relative positioning of troops in a formation can have very unpredictable effects on balance. They do have a lot of fans in the office though! As for more factions in the future, it's tough to say. Never say never!
  12. u/JanusRegno I've heard that Dwarves are getting a Shield Wall Formation, is this going to be unique to Dwarves, or will other factions get it on certain units as well? Ben: It is currently unique to Dwarfs. Any other units will require shield animations to be setup to support it.
  13. u/temor In the new patch flame cannons got a new VFX and gameplay update, however it feels like a nerf. Is this intended? Can you guys talk about these changes it a bit? Ben: We made changes to the Flame Cannon to make it more accurate to the Tabletop rules from the 8th edition Dwarf army book. The unit felt like it didn't capture the fantasy as well as it could have so we have updated it to better match its core identity. The individual shots of the Flame Cannon deal less damage per shot than it used to, but the number of shots that it fires equates to more damage overall than the previous version. Let us know what you think about the changes once you get your hands on it!
  14. [11:05 PM]@Tucanonerd It has been widely recognized by the community specially with Dwarf players, that the Age of Reckoning mechanic seems extremely out of place as the core system for a Race that should excel in defense to now get perhaps one the most powerful aggression mechanics in the game. Why have you decided to focus this rework in agression for a race that is recognized as the defensive one both in lore and in-game? Were there any alternatives that perhaps could focus on the development or rebuilding of the Karaks? Will the team follow the impact of this mechanic for future iterations after the mechanic is implemented? Is there any chance we could see changes to this mechanic based on the community feedback we are seeing? Sean: The goal of the Age of Reckoning feature is to capture the Dwarfs desire to right the wrongs. The core loop of Total War is built around aggressive actions and this feature is supposed to give an alternate direction to where you go to war. Often player's primary decision making when declaring wars is finishing a province or conquering adjacent provinces based on proximity of forces, by adding in this Grudge element we hope to add a new element to the decision making. Hopefully you will come across a scenario where you see a large Grudge target and it will shake up your decision making and maybe take you in a direction you wouldn't usually go.As for whether the feature could change in the future, of course it can, we make games for people to enjoy so if the feature isn't working as we had hoped we will of course revisit it.
  15. u/Distamorfin How much more "open" has the game gotten in terms of adding new types of mechanics? Will: So there's two big factors, one is the technical progression of the game. When we can, we try to build infrastructure with feature development that let's us extend functionality beyond what's needed just to deliver that original feature. A good example of this is the "foreign slots" system we built originally for the vampire coast coves but has since formed the foundation for Sanctums, Undercities, Gardens of Morr, The Changeling’s entire infrastructure and more. The other side has been the growing internal zeitgeist around what works, what doesn't, and our own personal drive to try greater and bigger things. The people make the tech and the tech inspires the people!
  16. u/Aslo Mechanics like Elspeth's Amethyst Armory seem to be very OP. How do you approach balance for these? Ben: I personally have a rule when I'm designing units and abilities for Warhammer 3, "make it fun first, then make it balanced afterwards". We wanted to make these superweapon-level army abilities really fun to use, but they will only become available towards the middle-to-end of a playthrough, making them a fitting reward for progressing a long way into Elspeth's campaign. They are pretty devastating, but they also cost a decent chunk of time and resources to field.
  17. u/Lore Dao Somegruztoggle Will the Slayer Shrine Landmark include the new DLC Slayer Units/Hero in its affects? Will: Sure! We've added all the new slayer units as well as recruitment for the new Dragon Slayer hero.
  18. u/kitekaze The start location of Epidemus and Tarmurkhan are so close to each other. Most of us are interest in moving Epidemus to Lustria to give Skrolk a pal. Is there any chance in the future to move Epidemus? (Also I love Gelt's new location). Sean: Glad to hear you like Gelt’s new start! Though Epidemius and Tamurkhan start not too far away we believe their starts are quite different. The path Tamurkhan is most likely to take will take him further away from Epidemius and the enemies they are tackling in the early game are also very different. However if feedback tells us that we got the decision wrong and he really shouldn't be there we can look to try elsewhere, Gelt has shown that we are open to make changes when we feel it makes sense! (edited)
  19. [11:07 PM]@beardedexp Why did Malakai's weapon change from the trailer? Ben: We made a change to Malakai's weapon to make it more accurate to the tabletop model from Storm of Chaos, which is a triple-barrelled repeater handgun (now with lever action!). What Malakai is holding in the trailer is the Grudge-raker that the Thunderers (Grudge-rakes) unit now wields.
  20. u/SkarBrand-Chan Will the Toad dragon be a mount option for Chaos Lords of nurgle? Ben: No, only Tamurkhan can mount a Toad Dragon. Steve: I already told you Ben, the Toad Dragon is MINE!
  21. u/soviet mustache What is the change of getting gyrocopters mounts for Dwarf Engineers? Ben: Dwarf Engineers aren't getting a Gyrocopter mount, as they did not get it in the 8th edition army book.
  22. u/SirDuncanIV Will Markus Wulfhart and Volkmar also get mission/events to return to the Empire, similar to what Baltasar Gelt now has? Alternatively, could they get the Imrik treatment with a minor faction confederation as mission reward Will: We haven't added a return to home feature for these factions. I'd never say that it's completely off the table but we have to be careful since a lot of nomad factions have their feature and campaign objectives placed around their new locations. It would be terribly difficult for Wulfhart to find his Hunters back in The Empire!
  23. u/SerbIy Why have you decided on giving Chaos Lord with Mark of Nurgle Sword and Shield and not Great Weapon? Ben: We decided that a Sword and Shield loadout provides more gameplay opportunities for Nurgle players. Nurgle have not had a shielded lord before now and the Exalted Hero of Nurgle already fills the role of a Great Weapons character. Tamurkhan also wields a Great Weapon, so it was more about providing that diversity in the weapon sets within the Nurgle roster.
  24. @だいこん Any information on changes to AI behavior (battle and campaign), sieges and other major systems? Ben: We will be addressing some more siege-adjacent topics after the release of Throne of Decay, starting with Ladders. One of the fixes we have lined up is the prevention of pathing onto ladders when a move order is issued in all cases. We believe that ladders are a piece of equipment that required explicit interaction with, so it should never be chosen as a pathing option unless the player chooses to interact with them.
  25. u/Skulltaker Hello, loved what I’ve seen of the plague mechanics changes and (and Tamurkhan), but just wondering if these mechanics will be given to Skrolk in the future? Or would you go back to the old mechanic and five that only to Skrolk? Thanks Will: Skrolk is definitely on my radar for the future. We updated how his plagues are displayed while reworking the Nurgle plagues but we'd like to do more for him in the future to sell the plague rat fantasy. Watch this space!
  26. u/jenny In shadows of change many of the new units were available in other factions besides the ones updated, most notably beastmen getting several of the new units. Of the new units in thrones of decay are there any plans for other factions to get some of these units? Ben: Certainly, Beastmen will be getting Pestigors. Warriors of Chaos will be getting Rot Knights and Bile Trolls (with other Nurgle units being given as Gifts of Chaos). Daemons of Chaos will be getting all of the Daemonic RoR units.
  27. u/Jaminator Since beastmen are likely receiving nurgle pestigors, then shouldn't they receive access to khorne minotaurs? Ben: In the future, we'd like to do this.📷2
  28. [11:09 PM]@Segert (ඞPontus Denierඞ) (Question) Now for my question. Are there plans to update older units(Like the for the empire)?. I mean with animation, Textures, Models, Balance ect, Empire was probably one of the first if not the first faction CA made when making the Warhammer total war series. I do feel the models are a bit dated. This is especially noted on the steam tank. Compare the new volley gun steam tank with the old one. And you will notice. Especially with the texture. Rich: Like with all aspects of our game, we like to revisit past content where we can to look to bring it up to scratch with our latest new additions. We felt that only right with the Steamtank for the Empire and you will see in Thrones of Decay that the original model has had a new lick of paint and is looking a lot more shiny now. I hope that we can improve further units for you and others in the future with the updates we have planned, but no promises on the units you've outlined here.
  29. u/pontiki So the deamons of chaos legendary lord is the only faction leader that doesnt have slots to put the sword of khaine. Is the new nemesis crown an item you equip as well? If it is a normal item as well are there any plans to make it so that the deamon prince can claim those items in the future? There are lots of more overpowered lords than him that can claim those items. It feels like he is the only one that for some reason cant get them. Im not asking to make it so he can equip all normal items but it should be possible for him to get those two unique items somehow Sean: The Nemesis Crown is not an item to equip directly, it was an important lesson for us from the Sword of Khaine implementation that players like their unique legendary items and poor Daniel needs to have fun too!
  30. u/Red Were Empire Wizard Lords ever considered for ToD? We know that Master Engineers became the Generic Lord for ToD. I'm curious if Wizard Lords were ever considered by CA, or maybe they weren't allowed by GW. I've seen many content creators post speculation videos for TOD and players speculating on the discord about Empire Wizard Lords with Elpseth, as she would've been a good way to introduce them with the "Gunpowder and Magic" theme for the Empire in ToD. Sean: They were considered yes, when we build the roster for our DLCs we look at every available option for the culture. We decided to focus on the engineer aspect of the pack to really tie Elspeth's position as the Legendary Lord leading Wissenland & Nuln, its important that we get the theme right when building up the rosters, and there have been times in the past when the units, heroes, lords on offer didnt make the most thematic sense - we are confident that the units added in this pack do make sense for each of our Legendary Lords. In the future though there are other parts of the Empire roster remaining that may have a stronger thematic tie together.
  31. u/GreenPhoenix Modding QoL - Removing Effects & Phases via Database Similar to how a previous patch gave a checkbox in the database to remove skills from characters, would it be possible to add a similar feature to remove effects and phases via the database? Will: I'm definitely looking for more places we can streamline some common modding pain points. We've got a new modder facing disable column for faction_agent_permitted_subtypes coming up in 5.0.1 that should finally put to rest that old Daemon. It's not always technically feasible but I urge modders to continue to raise their pain points on either our forums or The Modding Den discord server.📷1
  32. u/SirLord Erik the Historian Why were the Knights of the Black Rose chosen for this DLC instead of other Morr-themed Orders? There were a number of Morr-themed Knightly Orders to choose from. Why the Black Roses? Why not some heavy archer cav with the Knights Raven or the scythe-wielding Order of the Sacred Scythe? Ben: The Empire cavalry roster is generally very heavily populated with shock cavalry (lances and shields). With the Knights of the Black Rose, we wanted the opportunity to explore Total War's past and implement a cavalry unit that has a bit more staying power in melee combat. The Knights of the Black Rose embody this design space.
  33. u/Veteran Sweater Are the talismans for Thamurkhans chieftains bound to the hero or can they be given to any Lord? When the chieftain UI refers to "non chieftain units" does this mean units that are not chieftain or units that haven't been recruited by the chieftain mechanic? Does Tamurkhan start with Kyxak? In the showcase his starting army didn't have him and when he spawned in the map I didn't see him. How are new chieftain recruited? Sean : The items are bound to the Chieftains. Non-Chieftain units just means any unit you cannot gain from your Chieftains, like Nurglings for example. Tamurkhan does not start with Kayzk, however you will be able to recruit him from Tamurkhan's feature on turn 1. We wanted to do it this way to help introduce the interactions for the feature for the rest of the campaign.
  34. u/Arbaal Will there be any new settlements/ provinces added in the next patch ? Some areas ( especially Lustria, the Dark Lands and Cathay) seem a bit empty at the moment. Sean: We haven't added any new regions in this patch but we already have plans for further updates to the Immortal Empires map in 6.0.
  35. u/Porkenstein Why add Ulrika to Dwarf multiplayer roster? I've noticed from content creator uploads that the Dwarfs have been given Ulrika in multiplayer. Doesn't this entirely undermine their faction's magic design by giving them a lore of shadows spellcaster? I would have expected her to stay campaign exclusive for the Dwarfs. Will: Your expectation is right, Ulrika won't be available in multiplayer for the launch build.
  36. u/ArchThrone A lot of multiplayer people and the community there is concerned about the balance of the thunderbarge and mainly there being little to no downside with its speed ability. How can such a massive dwarven war machine turn so effectively in such a high speed where even most fliers can’t catch up to punish it? And have no downsides to shooting accuracy while going so fast? 📷 It would be such a shame if that unit was to be banned on mp events, since it’s simply so cool! Ben: The Thunderburner ability perhaps requires a bit of balancing post-release to settle the numbers in a bit more. We're always looking at how we can improve our content post-release, so the clear feedback that we've received from the community means that this will likely be a point that we'll be taking a look at. I agree that it will be a shame if the unit is banned.
  37. [11:13 PM]@ArchThrone Hi! Will there be any new balancing changes to the new units for when the live version of the DLC comes out? Since some of the DLC units are very overtuned especially for multiplayer 📷 Yes im looking at you thunder barge! Would be a shame to see multiplayer events ban such a cool unit! Ben: We're very fortunate in the sense that our multiplayer community has their finger on the pulse of what needs to be changed post-release, so we are able to get some fixes ready in advance for some of the units that have come out a little above their power level. We generally get recommendations via the Exalted creators group or through the regular peer-reived balance thread on the forums (which we are always keen to read) which are both amazing sources of info on the health of the battle-side of the game. Just want to take this opportunity to thank all the passionate people involved in helping us make the game better. To answer the original question though, there will be some small changes before release, but you can be sure that there will be balance changes post-release.
  38. u/Gray007nl Any chance we'll get the opportunity as Nurgle factions to confederate with Festus? He's part of the Nurgle roster in multiplayer battles and it'd be really nice if you could have him in campaign too. Sean: As of right now no we haven't implemented an official way to confederate factions outside of your culture, we have been making improvements to the systems that have prevented us in the past though so there is potential for us to investigate it further.
  39. u/Hellforger What you did wit the Empire is superb: every LL has a unique mechanic now. This makes me wonder if you guys would like to prioritize giving more older LLs from other factions the same love? Some of the vanilla lords suffer really greatly compared to the cool DLC ones. Basically the queston is: Trophy Collection for Queek, Phoenix Court for Tyrion, Slayer King for Ungrim and Patriarchy mechanics for Kostaltyn when? Sean: We can look to add features in the future, for us it made sense for the Empire as they didn't really have a cultural feature that tied them all together, only the Elector Counts mechanic was shared and we felt that really belonged to Karl and nobody else. If there are characters that have a great theme and we are focusing on that culture already, we will definitely think about it and see what fits.
  40. u/Haze Could it be possible to add faction returns like Gelt has to other factions? Mainly the ones on IE that start far flung from their home like Mother O, Imrik or Teclis where they have the option to return home with a dilemma? Sean: Yes its possible, we are excited to see how everyone feels about Gelt's new start position and once you all have had an opportunity to try it out and give us feedback we can see if it makes sense to roll out in other places.
  41. u/Mo Diddle Public order and Corruption Is there any thoughts about these two in their current state. They tend to just manage themselves at this point, and removing the "empire management" has been one of the things to severely strengthen the player Sean: In all honesty I agree, there are a few core systems in Warhammer 3 that could be improved and we have had discussions internally about what we could do to change them up. The limiting factor for us though is the impact and the confidence that it will be an objectively better end result for all our experiences. Corruption is tied to many sub-systems so a universal change without careful consideration could do more harm to the game than good... but never say never, where there is a will there is a way, and if enough players make it known that they want to see this change it will change how we prioritise our work to ensure we are making the most positive impact for the community.
  42. [11:13 PM]@kiwicone Will ungrims buffs work on new slayer units? Sean: Yes they will!
  43. u/Steve Kølle Seeing as we are gonna have a lot more plagues and corruption in circulation in ToD, is attrition damage to still be heavily mitigated by higher diffiulty modifiers? Playing on higher difficulties, attrition loses almost all of its potency against the AI and it feels like you are kind of losing out on a core gameplay element for wanting to play against more aggressive AI. Besides having high corruption in your owned territories, the scaling also makes corruption-bombing a neighboring faction a less rewarding offensive tactic. Bonus question: would a blessed attrition-causing symptom increase the damage the plague does over time? Will: This is actually a quite common misconception about Nurgle plagues. So let me set the record straight a bit. Difficulty does have an effect on a variety of attrition resistance, but has never actually affected plague attrition. It only applies to terrain attritions (Desert, sea, storm, snow, swamp, wastes) plus the "non-vampire territory attrition" suffered by the undead in low corruption areas and the "high chaos corruption" attrition suffered when in any region with a high level of chaos corruption. It's definitely on the table that we might want to review what attritions fall under the difficulty umbrella and the amount of resistance. As for blessed attrition symptoms? Absolutely.
  44. u/Squidtugboat there’s a lot of boat themed units in TOD. which boat would you take on holiday Ben: Thunderbarge, it has a pub on it.
Before we go, we'd like to share that we're putting together a recording of the live Q&A session for you to listen back to, and we hope to have it ready for you very soon! For more news, updates, and community content don't forget to follow us on our socials: X: https://x.com/totalwar Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TotalWar Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/totalwa YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/totalwar
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2024.04.26 03:30 drakwaltbeast Summary of this QnA

CA_Pingu: Greetings!
Thank you all for your questions and for joining us yesterday for the live Q&A with our Design team! We hope you had as much fun as we did!
As promised, here are the answers in writing for those who were unable to join, along with some additional answers to questions that we didn't quite have time for yesterday.
———
Q: After the Thrones of decay’s release, will you post a roadmap for the future of the game like you did last year?
I love roadmaps (like everyone I think) and with all the turmoil around creative assembly and total war, it would be nice to have a little stability and perspective on the future of the game.
CA_Rich: As we've said back near Christmas, and repeated again a month or so ago when we announced how we'd be splitting up Thrones into 3 packs, we'll absolutely have this conversation about what's next after we've released Thrones next week, and give it all the right focus it deserves.
But just to reassure you, the team and I are already hard at work on what’s coming next and beyond; we have plenty more we want to add to the game and will be talking about this in due course!
———
Q: If ToD sells, will the future dlc's follow the same selling format? I.E. each lord is separate, buy a pack for cheaper.
This is a good format and I think it is very appreciated in the community. I have been hesitant to buy other dlcs because the other race included was not one i liked.
The separate lord format gave me peace of mind for this, even though I'm going to buy the pack anyway. I know in some post, it said this was going to be a one-time thing to experiment, but I feel like the community would feel more secure if this was the future standard.
CA_Rich: It's great to hear that the format of Thrones of Decay is one that you like! I know we all have our favourite characters and races in the Warhammer world.
This was a new approach for us here at CA in how we have put Thrones of Decay together for you, and we have some other ideas which we may talk about at some point to see what you think of them too.
But ultimately, we want to create content going forward that our players and community enjoy, so nothing is set in stone and we will be continuing to listen very carefully to all the feedback that you share with us.
———
Q: How many Landmarks did you guys add for Patch 5.0 and how many ideas for landmarks do you guys have?
CA_Will: We usually do a handful, I think we added around 6 or 7 this time around? There are two main ways Landmarks are designed really, top-down and bottom-up.
Either we start with a bit of inspiration from a book or map source (quite a few landmarks came from seeing a cool name on a map!) or we set out with a design goal and find a landmark to serve that.
We implement the functional side then work with the art team to boil down that landmark into a tiny icon (not always easy! I think the Li Temple Landmark in Cathay went through 5 revisions before we were happy!).
———
Q: ToD campaigns looking crazy strong. When will Legendary be hard again?
CA_Paul: We're aware of feedback on these matters and are investigating potential changes on the topic of Campaign Difficulty, and contemplating adding more campaign options regarding confederation matters. However, it's very early to give any concrete details on upcoming changes.
———
Q: Will there be a visual rework to one of the lores of magic in 5.0?
CA_Ben: Yes, we will be reworking the Lore of Life!
———
Q: will there be the spirit of grungni in ToD ? wether in a mount option or in campaign mechanic ?
CA_Rich: Yes, the Spirit of Grungni features as a part of the content of Thrones of Decay for Malakai to make use of in battle as an army ability and in campaign as his roving horde settlement from where to explore the world.
**As a side note (and typical of Malakai and his mad cap plans), it seems the Spirit of Grungi has been enabled at launch to all users of WH3.
This will subsequently be put back in order via a hotfix to only be accessible for players than own the Thrones of Decay DLC.
———
Q: About the Ironside Repeaters? I think a question on a lot of people's minds is whether the Devs can comment on this situation?
The Repeater animations are still in use for the Ironsides in the recent Elspeth gameplay video, as well as their unique Repeater unit cards for both the regular and Amethyst Armory variants.
Is there any chance we'll get the Repeater Ironsides in some limited capacity, such as Regiments of Renown, or are they completely off the table now?
———
CA_Sean: We did trial the units to use repeater rifles but in practice it dramatically changed the identity of the Empire gun lines, we felt it was no longer authentic to the playstyle of the Empire or the Warhammer IP.
As we try to grant earlier access to builds and share more of our development in progress there will inevitably be other instances of seeing something that doesn’t quite make the final cut. We try a lot of ideas out before we settle on the final iteration.
———
Q: It’s been mentioned that the Nuln and Amethyst Ironsides can engage in melee combat.
How well do they fare compared to Empire melee infantry? Also is there a fixed limit to how many Amethyst units you can recruit?
Or can you recruit as many as you want as long as you have schematics to increase the unit cap similar to the Chaos Dwarf’s Hell-forge mechanic?
CA_Ben: The Nuln Ironsides are a bit more robust in melee, owing to their higher tier and better training. Whilst not better in the melee department than an Empire Swordsman, their armour gives them a more defensive profile.
Amethyst Ironsides on the other hand are more heavily armoured and can really hold their own in melee, eclipsing Empire Swordsmen in performance!
———
Q: What was the most challenging part of designing Thrones of Decay? And what was the most fun part?
CA_Rich: For me the most fun and challenging part of any DLC is coming up with the initial roster of characters and units.
Getting to dig through Warhammer's rich lore is always a treat for me and finding somethings that had either slipped my mind or are genuinely new.
Then coming to make the decision on what stays and what goes is always a tough one, where the team and I push to get in as many fun and exciting things as possible.
Likewise going back to past content is always an interesting one, in this case three races that we've touched over the years.
Trying to find the right gameplay for the Great Book of Grudges in particular was one that we all wracked our heads over for a while, in trying to get the right blend of thematics and turn-by-turn challenge.
I think we landed on a pretty decent end result, but you can tell us if that's true or not when you get your hands on it!
———
Q: It has been widely recognized by the community specially with Dwarf players, that the Age of Reckoning mechanic seems extremely out of place as the core system for a Race that should excel in defense to now get perhaps one the most powerful aggression mechanics in the game.
Why have you decided to focus this rework in agression for a race that is recognized as the defensive one both in lore and in-game? Were there any alternatives that perhaps could focus on the development or rebuilding of the Karaks?
Will the team follow the impact of this mechanic for future iterations after the mechanic is implemented? Is there any chance we could see changes to this mechanic based on the community feedback we are seeing?
CA_Sean: The goal of the Age of Reckoning feature is to capture the Dwarfs desire to right the wrongs. The core loop of Total War is built around aggressive actions and this feature is supposed to give an alternate direction to where you go to war.
Often player's primary decision making when declaring wars is finishing a province or conquering adjacent provinces based on proximity of forces, by adding in this Grudge element we hope to add a new element to the decision making.
Hopefully you will come across a scenario where you see a large Grudge target and it will shake up your decision making and maybe take you in a direction you wouldn't usually go.
As for whether the feature could change in the future, of course it can, we make games for people to enjoy so if the feature isn't working as we had hoped we will of course revisit it.
———
Q: How much more "open" has the game gotten in terms of adding new types of mechanics?
CA_Will: So there's two big factors, one is the technical progression of the game. When we can, we try to build infrastructure with feature development that let's us extend functionality beyond what's needed just to deliver that original feature.
A good example of this is the "foreign slots" system we built originally for the vampire coast coves but has since formed the foundation for Sanctums, Undercities, Gardens of Morr, The Changeling’s entire infrastructure and more.
The other side has been the growing internal zeitgeist around what works, what doesn't, and our own personal drive to try greater and bigger things. The people make the tech and the tech inspires the people!
———
Q: Mechanics like Elspeth's Amethyst Armory seem to be very OP. How do you approach balance for these?
CA_Ben: I personally have a rule when I'm designing units and abilities for Warhammer 3, "make it fun first, then make it balanced afterwards".
We wanted to make these superweapon-level army abilities really fun to use, but they will only become available towards the middle-to-end of a playthrough, making them a fitting reward for progressing a long way into Elspeth's campaign.
They are pretty devastating, but they also cost a decent chunk of time and resources to field.
———
Q: Will the Slayer Shrine Landmark include the new DLC Slayer Units/Hero in its affects?
CA_Will: Sure! We've added all the new slayer units as well as recruitment for the new Dragon Slayer hero.
———
Q: The start location of Epidemus and Tarmurkhan are so close to each other. Most of us are interest in moving Epidemus to Lustria to give Skrolk a pal.
Is there any chance in the future to move Epidemus? (Also I love Gelt's new location).
CA_Sean: Glad to hear you like Gelt’s new start! Though Epidemius and Tamurkhan start not too far away we believe their starts are quite different.
The path Tamurkhan is most likely to take will take him further away from Epidemius and the enemies they are tackling in the early game are also very different.
However if feedback tells us that we got the decision wrong and he really shouldn't be there we can look to try elsewhere, Gelt has shown that we are open to make changes when we feel it makes sense!
———
Q: Why did Malakai's weapon change from the trailer?
CA_Ben: We made a change to Malakai's weapon to make it more accurate to the tabletop model from Storm of Chaos, which is a triple-barrelled repeater handgun (now with lever action!).
What Malakai is holding in the trailer is the Grudge-raker that the Thunderers (Grudge-rakes) unit now wields.
———
Q: Will the Toad dragon be a mount option for Chaos Lords of nurgle?
CA_Ben: No, only Tamurkhan can mount a Toad Dragon. CA_Steve: I already told you Ben, the Toad Dragon is MINE!
———
Q: What is the change of getting gyrocopters mounts for Dwarf Engineers? CA_Ben: Dwarf Engineers aren't getting a Gyrocopter mount, as they did not get it in the 8th edition army book.
———
Q: Will Markus Wulfhart and Volkmar also get mission/events to return to the Empire, similar to what Baltasar Gelt now has?
Alternatively, could they get the Imrik treatment with a minor faction confederation as mission reward
CA_Will: We haven't added a return to home feature for these factions. I'd never say that it's completely off the table but we have to be careful since a lot of nomad factions have their feature and campaign objectives placed around their new locations.
It would be terribly difficult for Wulfhart to find his Hunters back in The Empire!
———
Q: Why have you decided on giving Chaos Lord with Mark of Nurgle Sword and Shield and not Great Weapon?
CA_Ben: We decided that a Sword and Shield loadout provides more gameplay opportunities for Nurgle players.
Nurgle have not had a shielded lord before now and the Exalted Hero of Nurgle already fills the role of a Great Weapons character.
Tamurkhan also wields a Great Weapon, so it was more about providing that diversity in the weapon sets within the Nurgle roster.
———
Q: Any information on changes to AI behavior (battle and campaign), sieges and other major systems?
CA_Ben**: We will be addressing some more siege-adjacent topics after the release of Throne of Decay, starting with Ladders.
One of the fixes we have lined up is the prevention of pathing onto ladders when a move order is issued in all cases.
We believe that ladders are a piece of equipment that required explicit interaction with, so it should never be chosen as a pathing option unless the player chooses to interact with them.
———
Q: Hello, loved what I’ve seen of the plague mechanics changes and (and Tamurkhan), but just wondering if these mechanics will be given to Skrolk in the future?
Or would you go back to the old mechanic and five that only to Skrolk? Thanks
CA_Will: Skrolk is definitely on my radar for the future. We updated how his plagues are displayed while reworking the Nurgle plagues but we'd like to do more for him in the future to sell the plague rat fantasy. Watch this space!
———
Q: In shadows of change many of the new units were available in other factions besides the ones updated, most notably beastmen getting several of the new units. Of the new units in thrones of decay are there any plans for other factions to get some of these units?
CA_Ben: Certainly, Beastmen will be getting Pestigors. Warriors of Chaos will be getting Rot Knights and Bile Trolls (with other Nurgle units being given as Gifts of Chaos).
Daemons of Chaos will be getting all of the Daemonic RoR units.
———
Q: Since beastmen are likely receiving nurgle pestigors, then shouldn't they receive access to khorne minotaurs?
CA_Ben: In the future, we'd like to do this.
———
Q: (Question) Now for my question. Are there plans to update older units(Like the for the empire)?.
I mean with animation, Textures, Models, Balance ect, Empire was probably one of the first if not the first faction CA made when making the Warhammer total war series. I do feel the models are a bit dated.
This is especially noted on the steam tank. Compare the new volley gun steam tank with the old one. And you will notice. Especially with the texture.
CA_Rich: Like with all aspects of our game, we like to revisit past content where we can to look to bring it up to scratch with our latest new additions.
We felt that only right with the Steamtank for the Empire and you will see in Thrones of Decay that the original model has had a new lick of paint and is looking a lot more shiny now.
I hope that we can improve further units for you and others in the future with the updates we have planned, but no promises on the units you've outlined here.
———
Q: So the deamons of chaos legendary lord is the only faction leader that doesnt have slots to put the sword of khaine. Is the new nemesis crown an item you equip as well?
If it is a normal item as well are there any plans to make it so that the deamon prince can claim those items in the future?
There are lots of more overpowered lords than him that can claim those items. It feels like he is the only one that for some reason cant get them.
Im not asking to make it so he can equip all normal items but it should be possible for him to get those two unique items somehow
CA_Sean: The Nemesis Crown is not an item to equip directly, it was an important lesson for us from the Sword of Khaine implementation that players like their unique legendary items and poor Daniel needs to have fun too!
———
Q: Were Empire Wizard Lords ever considered for ToD?
We know that Master Engineers became the Generic Lord for ToD. I'm curious if Wizard Lords were ever considered by CA, or maybe they weren't allowed by GW. I've seen many content creators post speculation videos for TOD and players speculating on the discord about Empire Wizard Lords with Elpseth, as she would've been a good way to introduce them with the "Gunpowder and Magic" theme for the Empire in ToD.
CA_Sean: They were considered yes, when we build the roster for our DLCs we look at every available option for the culture. We decided to focus on the engineer aspect of the pack to really tie Elspeth's position as the Legendary Lord leading Wissenland & Nuln, its important that we get the theme right when building up the rosters, and there have been times in the past when the units, heroes, lords on offer didnt make the most thematic sense - we are confident that the units added in this pack do make sense for each of our Legendary Lords. In the future though there are other parts of the Empire roster remaining that may have a stronger thematic tie together.
———
Q: Modding QoL - Removing Effects & Phases via Database Similar to how a previous patch gave a checkbox in the database to remove skills from characters, would it be possible to add a similar feature to remove effects and phases via the database?
CA_Will: I'm definitely looking for more places we can streamline some common modding pain points. We've got a new modder facing disable column for faction_agent_permitted_subtypes coming up in 5.0.1 that should finally put to rest that old Daemon.
It's not always technically feasible but I urge modders to continue to raise their pain points on either our forums or The Modding Den discord server.
———
Q: Why were the Knights of the Black Rose chosen for this DLC instead of other Morr-themed Orders? There were a number of Morr-themed Knightly Orders to choose from.
Why the Black Roses? Why not some heavy archer cav with the Knights Raven or the scythe-wielding Order of the Sacred Scythe?
CA_Ben: The Empire cavalry roster is generally very heavily populated with shock cavalry (lances and shields).
With the Knights of the Black Rose, we wanted the opportunity to explore Total War's past and implement a cavalry unit that has a bit more staying power in melee combat. The Knights of the Black Rose embody this design space.
———
Q: Are the talismans for Thamurkhans chieftains bound to the hero or can they be given to any Lord? When the chieftain UI refers to "non chieftain units" does this mean units that are not chieftain or units that haven't been recruited by the chieftain mechanic?
Does Tamurkhan start with Kyxak? In the showcase his starting army didn't have him and when he spawned in the map I didn't see him. How are new chieftain recruited?
CA_Sean: The items are bound to the Chieftains. Non-Chieftain units just means any unit you cannot gain from your Chieftains, like Nurglings for example.
Tamurkhan does not start with Kayzk, however you will be able to recruit him from Tamurkhan's feature on turn 1. We wanted to do it this way to help introduce the interactions for the feature for the rest of the campaign.
———
Q: Will there be any new settlements/ provinces added in the next patch ? Some areas ( especially Lustria, the Dark Lands and Cathay) seem a bit empty at the moment.
CA_Sean: We haven't added any new regions in this patch but we already have plans for further updates to the Immortal Empires map in 6.0.
———
Q: Why add Ulrika to Dwarf multiplayer roster? I've noticed from content creator uploads that the Dwarfs have been given Ulrika in multiplayer.
Doesn't this entirely undermine their faction's magic design by giving them a lore of shadows spellcaster? I would have expected her to stay campaign exclusive for the Dwarfs.
CA_Will: Your expectation is right, Ulrika won't be available in multiplayer for the launch build.
———
Q: A lot of multiplayer people and the community there is concerned about the balance of the thunderbarge and mainly there being little to no downside with its speed ability.
How can such a massive dwarven war machine turn so effectively in such a high speed where even most fliers can’t catch up to punish it? And have no downsides to shooting accuracy while going so fast? 😂 It would be such a shame if that unit was to be banned on mp events, since it’s simply so cool!
CA_Ben: The Thunderburner ability perhaps requires a bit of balancing post-release to settle the numbers in a bit more.
We're always looking at how we can improve our content post-release, so the clear feedback that we've received from the community means that this will likely be a point that we'll be taking a look at. I agree that it will be a shame if the unit is banned.
———
Q: Hi! Will there be any new balancing changes to the new units for when the live version of the DLC comes out?
Since some of the DLC units are very overtuned especially for multiplayer 😅 Yes im looking at you thunder barge! Would be a shame to see multiplayer events ban such a cool unit!
CA_ Ben: We're very fortunate in the sense that our multiplayer community has their finger on the pulse of what needs to be changed post-release, so we are able to get some fixes ready in advance for some of the units that have come out a little above their power level.
We generally get recommendations via the Exalted creators group or through the regular peer-reived balance thread on the forums (which we are always keen to read) which are both amazing sources of info on the health of the battle-side of the game.
Just want to take this opportunity to thank all the passionate people involved in helping us make the game better. To answer the original question though, there will be some small changes before release, but you can be sure that there will be balance changes post-release.
———
Q: Any chance we'll get the opportunity as Nurgle factions to confederate with Festus? He's part of the Nurgle roster in multiplayer battles and it'd be really nice if you could have him in campaign too.
CA_Sean: As of right now no we haven't implemented an official way to confederate factions outside of your culture, we have been making improvements to the systems that have prevented us in the past though so there is potential for us to investigate it further.
———
Q: What you did wit the Empire is superb: every LL has a unique mechanic now. This makes me wonder if you guys would like to prioritize giving more older LLs from other factions the same love?
Some of the vanilla lords suffer really greatly compared to the cool DLC ones. Basically the queston is: Trophy Collection for Queek, Phoenix Court for Tyrion, Slayer King for Ungrim and Patriarchy mechanics for Kostaltyn when?
CA_Sean: We can look to add features in the future, for us it made sense for the Empire as they didn't really have a cultural feature that tied them all together, only the Elector Counts mechanic was shared and we felt that really belonged to Karl and nobody else.
If there are characters that have a great theme and we are focusing on that culture already, we will definitely think about it and see what fits.
———
Q: Could it be possible to add faction returns like Gelt has to other factions? Mainly the ones on IE that start far flung from their home like Mother O, Imrik or Teclis where they have the option to return home with a dilemma?
CA_Sean: Yes its possible, we are excited to see how everyone feels about Gelt's new start position and once you all have had an opportunity to try it out and give us feedback we can see if it makes sense to roll out in other places.
———
Public order and Corruption Is there any thoughts about these two in their current state. They tend to just manage themselves at this point, and removing the "empire management" has been one of the things to severely strengthen the player
CA_Sean: In all honesty I agree, there are a few core systems in Warhammer 3 that could be improved and we have had discussions internally about what we could do to change them up.
The limiting factor for us though is the impact and the confidence that it will be an objectively better end result for all our experiences. Corruption is tied to many sub-systems so a universal change without careful consideration could do more harm to the game than good... but never say never, where there is a will there is a way, and if enough players make it known that they want to see this change it will change how we prioritise our work to ensure we are making the most positive impact for the community.
Will ungrims buffs work on new slayer units?
CA_Sean: Yes they will!
———
Q: Seeing as we are gonna have a lot more plagues and corruption in circulation in ToD, is attrition damage to still be heavily mitigated by higher diffiulty modifiers?
Playing on higher difficulties, attrition loses almost all of its potency against the AI and it feels like you are kind of losing out on a core gameplay element for wanting to play against more aggressive AI.
Besides having high corruption in your owned territories, the scaling also makes corruption-bombing a neighboring faction a less rewarding offensive tactic. Bonus question: would a blessed attrition-causing symptom increase the damage the plague does over time?
———
CA_Will: This is actually a quite common misconception about Nurgle plagues. So let me set the record straight a bit. Difficulty does have an effect on a variety of attrition resistance, but has never actually affected plague attrition.
It only applies to terrain attritions (Desert, sea, storm, snow, swamp, wastes) plus the "non-vampire territory attrition" suffered by the undead in low corruption areas and the "high chaos corruption" attrition suffered when in any region with a high level of chaos corruption.
It's definitely on the table that we might want to review what attritions fall under the difficulty umbrella and the amount of resistance. As for blessed attrition symptoms? Absolutely.
———
Q: there’s a lot of boat themed units in TOD. which boat would you take on holiday
CA_Ben: Thunderbarge, it has a pub on it.
———
The full QnA has now been released, but the summary will be revised and posted further.
There were errors in some parts and I am truly sorry for any misunderstanding.
CA ToD QnA full story: https://discord.com/channels/768815306667196436/1233372841810984982/1233372841810984982
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2024.04.21 21:51 crustystuch Canadian queen BIAB medium mattress suggestions (Endy Hybrid, Logan and Cove, vs Octave)?

Hello, I am back after another mattress that didn't suit me...
I’m hoping to get some help picking a queen size mattress in Canada for under $1500, and ideally under to $1300.
About me: about 5’10” and roughly 200 lbs, almost exclusively side sleeper with rare occasions in which I end up napping on my back or will slightly turn towards my stomach while still sleeping on my side. I don't usually tend to sleep hot but do keep a fan next to my bed just in case. Once in a while I'll wake up a bit sore. I do like a bit of plush sensation but don’t love completely sinking into a bed that it’s hard to roll to my other wise. In the past I have enjoyed sleeping on plush pillow-tops. I don’t love completely sinking into the mattress and feeling trapped but I do enjoy a bit of “hug” and feeling cradled within the mattress. I also appreciate good support because I don't like my mattress sagging.
I am thinking going with BIAB might be the easiest option here (but happy to be persuaded otherwise) both financially, and logistically
I had previously owned the Hamuq hybrid but returned it as I wasn't getting a comfortable sleep on it. It was hard to point out what the reason for that was (my sleep schedule is also part of the problem). I think it was maybe slightly too firm. Sometimes, but not too often, I woke up a little sore. I didn't sleep hot in it. I just didn't find it to be the most comfortable.
Then. I tried the silk and snow organic mattress, which I found overly bouncy and could feel the springs through the latex at times. I liked the edge support, but overall, I still woke up a little sore and didn’t find that I was cradled and supported in the way I would have liked.
Now, I’m thinking the I’d fare better with a supportive medium mattresses. I’m pretty open to suggestions, as what I’ve thought would be good for me in the past hasn’t really worked out. I will say, I also prefer thicker mattresses and am looking for one that is at least 13” in height.
With that in mind, I have narrowed down my options to the following:
I also looked at some available through Costco and the ones that caught my eye were:
I don’t really care of any of the “add on” free gifts that are included in some of the deals. I’m mostly looking at the price. I know that Logan and Cove and Octave are made by the same parent company u/GoodMorningBeds.
Any thoughts would be appreciated as I am unable to try any of them in person. Would love to hear from people with experience on these mattresses too. Also open to other suggestions.
Thanks in advance!
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2024.04.21 13:21 airtofakie PSA for Audible subscribers -- the Plus catalogue just received new additions, including quite a few M/M romances (at least in the North American market), so check your wishlist!

I need to spend a few credits soon because they're about to expire, so I just spent all day going through my wishlist (all 2,120 titles of it), and I found so many M/M romances that are now featured in the Plus catalogue.
Disclaimers:
{A Breath Apart by Christina Lee}
{A Light Amongst Shadows by Kelley York and Rowan Altwood}
{A Royal Christmas Cruise by Max Walker}
{A Taste of Gold and Iron by Alexandra Rowland}
{A Thief in the Night by KJ Charles}
The entire {All for the Game series by Nora Sakavic}
{All I Want for Christmas...Is My Sister's Boyfriend by Brooke Blaine and Ella Frank}
{Arctic Fire by Keira Andrews}
1 and 2 in the {Auctioned series by Cara Dee}
{Beyond the Sea by Keira Andrews}
The entire {Big Bad Wolf series by Charlie Adhara}
The entire {Bitter Legacy series by Dal MacLean}
The entire {Blue Moon series by A.E. Via}
The entire {Bounty Hunters series by A.E. Via}
The entire {Boyfriend Chronicles series by River Jaymes}
{Bridesmates by Sydney Smyth}
{Brothers of the Wild North Sea by Harper Fox}
1 through 4 in the {Browerton University series by A.J. Truman}
1 through 4 in the {College Boys of New Haven series by Hayden Hall}
{Crimes of Passion by Jack Harbon}
1 through 3 in the {Criminal Intentions series by Cole McCade}
{Cronin's Key by N.R. Walker}
The entire {Crossroads series by Riley Hart}
The entire {CU Hockey series by Eden Finley and Saxon James}
{Cup of Joe by Annabeth Albert}
The entire {Custos Securities series by Luna David}
The entire {Darkest Court series by M.A. Grant}
1 and 2 in the {Darkmourn series by Ben Alderson}
{Defined by Deceit by A.E. Via}
{Driftwood by Harper Fox}
1 and 2 in the {Easton U Pirates series by Christina Lee}
{Ends of the Earth by Keira Andrews}
{Evolved by N.R. Walker}
The entire {Executive Office series by Tal Bauer}
1 through 5 in the {Fake Boyfriend series by Eden Finley}
1 through 4 in the {Famous series by Eden Finley}
The entire {Fated series by Christina Lee}
{Finders Keepers by N.R. Walker}
The entire {Finding series by Riley Hart}
{Flash Rip by Keira Andrews}
1 through 3 in the {For Him series by A.M. Johnson}
The entire {Formicary series by S.E. Harmon}
1 through 4 in the {Frat Brats of Santa Barbara series by Hayden Hall}
{Galaxies and Oceans by N.R. Walker}
1 through 3 in the {Game Changers series by Rachel Reid}
The entire {Gay Amish Romance series by Keira Andrews}
{Getting Lucky by Daryl Banner}
{Ghosting You by Alexander C. Eberhart} (YA)
1 through 4 in the {Giving Consent series by Kate Hawthorne}
The entire {Gold Brothers series by Max Walker}
1 through 3 in the {Guys Next Door series by Baylin Crow}
The entire {Haven Hart series by Davidson King}
1 through 3 in the {Hazard and Somerset series by Gregory Ashe}
1 through 3 in the {Here Be Dragons series by Louisa Masters}
1 through 4 in the {Hidden Species series by Louisa Masters}
The entire {His series by Con Riley}
{His Truth by Riley Hart}
{Hush by Tal Bauer}
1 and 2 in the {Imago series by N.R. Walker}
The entire {In Darkness series by Alice Winters}
1, 2, and 4 in the {In Focus series by Megan Erickson}
The entire {In the Mind series by Alice Winters}
{In Too Deep by Daryl Banner}
The entire {Intentions series by Ella Frank}
The entire {Kick at the Darkness series by Keira Andrews}
{Kidnapped by the Pirate by Keira Andrews}
The entire {King and Alpha series by A.E. Via}
The entire {Kings of Hell MC series by K.A. Merikan}
The entire {Kink Chronicles series by Luna David and Morningstar Ashley}
The entire {Lancaster Falls series by RJ Scott}
{Let Me In by Luna David}
The entire {Lost Pack series by Claire Cullen}
The entire {Love is Love series by Leigh Lennon} ; #4
{Love Match by Keira Andrews}
{Love Me Louder by Christina Lee}
The entire {Lucky series by Garrett Leigh}
The entire {Magic in Manhattan series by Allie Therin}
{More Me with You by Alex Bertie}
The entire {Not Dead Yet series by Jenn Burke}
1 through 5 in the {Nothing Special series by A.E. Via} (and perhaps more; I already own the rest, plus the box set of the others, so I can't be sure)
{On Davis Row by N.R. Walker}
{Out of the Blue by Lila Rose}
{Over and Over Again by Cole McCade}
The entire {Perfect Harmony series by Annabeth Albert}
The entire {Perspectives series by A.M. Arthur}
{Project Hero by Briar Prescott}
The entire {Pros and Cons series by A.E. Wasp}
The entire {Radiance series by Tavia Lark}
1, 2, and 4 in the {Rainbow Cove series by Annabeth Albert}
{Raising Hell by Daryl Banner}
{Reading the Signs by Keira Andrews}
The entire {Riven series by Roan Parrish}
The entire {Roadmap to Your Heart series by Christina Lee}
The entire {Rules of Possession series by S.E. Harmon}
The entire {Saint and Lucky series by Riley Hart}
{Score by A.E. Wasp}
{Semper Fi by Keira Andrews}
{Seven Summer Nights by Harper Fox}
{Sidelined by Kara Bietz} (YA)
1 through 3 in the {Silk and Steel series by Ariana Nash}
1 through 4 in the {Shadows of London series by Ariana Nash}
{Sleepless Over You by Sydney Smyth}
The entire {Small Change series by Roan Parrish}
The entire {Spectral Files series by S.E. Harmon}
1 through 3 in the {Spencer Cohen series by N.R. Walker}
1 through 6 in the {Spruce Texas Romance series by Daryl Banner}
The entire {Steele Brothers series by Eden Finley}
The entire {Stonewall Investigations series by Max Walker}
1 and 2 in the {Stonewall Investigations Blue Creek series by Max Walker}
The entire {Stonewall Investigations Miami series by Max Walker}
{Strays by A.J. Thomas}
{Sunset Springs by Kacen Callender}
{Switched by N.R. Walker}
The entire {Takeover series by Anna Zabo}
1 through 3 in the {Taking Care series by Gianni Holmes}
{Tallowwood by N.R. Walker}
{The Boy from the Mish by Gary Lonesborough} (YA)
{The Geek Who Saved Christmas by Annabeth Albert}
{The Happy List by Briar Prescott}
{The Hate You Drink by N.R. Walker}
{The Lawrence Browne Affair by Cat Sebastian}
{The Remaking of Corbin Wale by Roan Parrish}
{The Salisbury Key by Harper Fox}
{The Secrets in My Scowl by A.E. Via}
{The Spy and the Mobster's Son by Keira Andrews}
{The Station by Keira Andrews}
{The Sunset Job by Max Walker}
{The Wicker King by K. Ancrum} (YA)
{There Goes Sunday School by Alexander C. Eberhart} (YA)
1 and 2 in the {True-Blue series by Becca Seymour}
1 through 3 in the {Will Darling Adventures series by KJ Charles}
The entire {Too Far series by H.L. Day}
The entire {True Lovers series by A.E. Via}
The entire {Twisted Wishes series by Anna Zabo}
The entire {Tyack and Frayne series by Harper Fox}
1 through 3 in the {Undue Arrogance series by Cole McCade}
The entire {Valor series by Keira Andrews}
The entire Vino and Veritas series
{Voyageurs by Keira Andrews}
{When Christmas Lights Are Blue by Harper Fox}
{When Harry Met Harry by Sydney Smyth}
{When I See You Again by Daryl Banner}
The entire {When Snow Falls series by Hayden Stone}
{Whisper by Tal Bauer}
The entire {Whisper Ridge, Wyoming series by RJ Scott}
The entire {Whitethorn Agency series by M.A. Grant}
The entire {Witchbane series by Morgan Brice}
{Wrapped Up in You by Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine}
{You Can See Me by A.E. Via}
("Post about this on the sub!" I told myself. "It won't take that long!" I told myself. [collapses from exhaustion eight hours later])
submitted by airtofakie to MM_RomanceBooks [link] [comments]


2024.04.20 15:56 annanas_067 AU Lore Drop PT 2

AU Lore Drop PT 2
(the art is to take attention)
Part 1: https://www.reddit.com/fivenightsatfreddys/s/2TvlEvzJVD (TW: Manipulation, murder, cannibalism)
AN: I recently shared my old art where I drew the Fnaf animatronics as people (https://www.reddit.com/fivenightsatfreddys/s/iZepEeIpdh) and I wanted the story to keep making sense so instead of just drawing them as people I also gave them LOREEEEE/created an AU
All right so after Fredbear's is shut down William Afton opens the new Freddy's, destroying the whole hole Fredbear character but after the 83 incident he can't find any actors. This place (like CB's Pizza World) is made to experiment on people after he found some sort of energy in Fredbear. So he found some desperate people to work with him.
Foxy: has a criminal record of battery after attacking his ex-colleague cause of his anger issues.
Chica: is an orphan and has to take care of her brother (Carl/Cupcake).
Bonnie: can't work at places like the office, needs a free workspace (+ADHD).
Freddy: has financial problems.
Now William Afton is straight up injecting them and experimenting on them with the excuse of "graduating from medical school and following his passion to open a diner"/obvious lie/ With each injection they get more exhausted and more sick so they end up going to William for more (it's like drugs or alcohol, feels good for a while but then you end up feeling like s---) the injections make them do things out of their will and have breakdowns (they act like the animatronics in Fnaf 1) and they end up luring children away from the dining area and killing them or getting them killed (most of the murders are inspired from some VHS tapes) Foxy isolates himself at the Pirates Cove after an incident with a child where he pulled off a child's eye and arm (reference to the book "Step Closer) but he ends up killing Fritz when he wants to play with Foxy. The place shuts down but the characters are still desperate for jobs and William still needs his guniea pigs so he gives them a job just not on the stage.
On part 3 I'm gonna talk about the Toys and if it's not too long I'll talk about the Funtimes
submitted by annanas_067 to fivenightsatfreddys [link] [comments]


2024.04.16 15:37 Dazzling-World-8180 Can we talk about that ending in the Amazon Show? What it means for the cannon…

Let me preface this with saying the show is undoubtedly amazing. The people who made it definitely took their time, research and passion when making it. I loved all of the small details and hidden references. The mininuke in episode two, the junk jet, that flag scene and especially the Ranger armor all hit hard.
But I want to talk about the ending. Not how excited I am to see Vegas, but how it’s portrayed, and what little information we got in the cinematic during the credits. Let me say…. it’s dark.
If you are familiar with the Fallout : Dust Mod you know where I’m headed. From what we can see in the final shot of the show is New Vegas, but there is something off about it. The lights are off. Why?
In the cinematic for the credits we see a depressing picture, a red fog is coving the strip. A crashed virtabird with NCR written on the side and oddly enough disabled securitrons, one with a deep gash on its front. As if a deathclaw destroyed it, or a tunneler…
In Vault 4 of the show we see an imagine in the background of the research lab, and it appears to be a tunneler so we know that what’s left of the people in the area know of them.
With this in mind, what if Ulysses was right? What if it doesn’t matter who won the battle of Hoover Dam? The dust of the divide will reach the Mojave mixing with the clouds of the Sierra Madre. The tunnelers with their massive strength and quick breeding will reach the Mojave. Will we get to see Vegas in all its shiny glamor or is it doomed?
submitted by Dazzling-World-8180 to falloutnewvegas [link] [comments]


2024.04.16 10:49 felvymups Statement from The Cove re tifo processes

Statement below:
The Cove – Tifo Announcement
We hope you all have thoroughly enjoyed the past few days. We have no intention of dampening spirits but when necessary, we must shed light publicly on issues we as a home end are facing.
At Sydney, we pride ourselves on our tifo displays. We are always looking at pushing the boundaries and incorporating new unique elements which have not been seen before. It was decided early on in our history that if we aren’t producing tifos, then what are we doing? A tifo is the ultimate way for a home end to display how real their passion is. To produce them, a home end must work hard to earn money from merchandise sales and fundraisers. A tifo creation is always in motion. They then take large amounts of time and hard work from volunteers. It is, put simply, complete and utter dedication.
All tifos go through an approval process. This has been the case for several years. No approval comes without hurdles, but we generally get things over the line in an appropriate manner and actively engage to work with all parties on accepting reasonable modifications. However, over the past two months and in the middle of the season, we have suffered through a new approval process that was thrown at us with no warning and did not incorporate us, the fans, at all. This came as a direct result of WSW’s failure to properly plan their fan groups’ tifo. It caused both the APL and VenuesNSW to over-prioritise their prevention to be put at fault rather than take a balanced approach between themselves and us. We were told it was their intention to create a “unified” system across the entire league. We are happy and open to this notion. We look forward to being part of a structure that we can refer to and copy for years to come. However, a new approach must be crafted correctly with all stakeholders involved.
It was also mentioned that another reason for us being subjected to a new tifo approval structure was because both the APL and VenuesNSW had undergone several staff changes in the past year. Does that indicate that in the future when natural staff changes do occur, we will have to suffer through an entirely new process again? Overall, we feel it was unfair to implement large unannounced changes in the middle of a season, to the point where it felt like we were being punished, when we have historically had next to zero issues with the tifo approval process.
Before we go into issues placed upon us by 3rd parties, we want to remind everyone of both the financial and time commitment that goes into the production of these. Tifo creation is already an extremely difficult process which is often in a battle with time. If you add further major hurdles, then the stress to produce ultimately is no longer worth it. We are dissatisfied with both the APL and VenuesNSW in their inability to support fans who work so hard on tifos. We are people with lives, work and families who sacrifice our free time to produce these. We shouldn’t be forced to battle organisations with paid employees to provide something which elevates an atmosphere and sets our game apart from the rest. So, as you read the issues, we ask kindly you keep this in mind.
We now present the “Grit Behind the Glamour” of our tifo display on the weekend which ultimately drives an unwanted but important decision.
  1. The APL refused the use of the word "Wanderer," so we had to substitute it with "Enemy."
  2. VenuesNSW rejected the use of plastic builders film for black scarves, citing fire risk concerns. All materials are sprayed with fire retardant, which is both time consuming and costly. However, we have always done this procedure for the benefit of the relationship with all parties. To proceed with the display, we were told to use black cotton scarves. These cost approximately five times more. However, we accepted the change in the interest of getting it approved. After making the change, Sydney FC informed us that the cotton scarves were not approved either, jeopardising our scarf display. We clarified that we wouldn't proceed with the tifo unless the scarves were approved. An agreement was reached when we offered to have six helpers pack up scarves after the tifo.
  3. The Cove had to complete a risk assessment without any assistance or instructions provided.
  4. In the approved risk assessment dated 28/3/24, we specified the need for people to stand behind each timber. However, during a club meeting last Wednesday, we were informed that there was no way VenuesNSW would permit standing on the LED or modifying the mesh tarp in the front two rows despite it not being laid out yet. After pushing back, the club agreed to inquire about either modifying the mesh tarp, allowing two people to stand on the LED solely for the tifo display, or having two people sit on the mesh tarp for the tifo display. VenuesNSW did not respond to our requests throughout Thursday. On Friday, the day before the tifo, all our requests were denied. They illogically suggested the tifo be free-standing (not against the LED) so that people could stand behind it. They told us that we could trial it on the day and if it didn’t work then they would be willing to work with us to find a solution. We instinctively declined this offer as we lacked confidence in their ability to collaborate with us, and for safety reasons, we needed a clear plan. Our CEO intervened, contacting VenuesNSW, which led to the situation being resolved within 30 minutes. The mesh tarp was modified. The same suggestion from two different parties and each with unique outcomes. Was it the suggestions they were denying, or was it the people asking them?
  5. Our tifo/message banner was leaked to the RBB, who subsequently posted it on their stories. It's ironic that a group claiming to be anti-establishment appears to have close ties with those in power. This is the second instance of such a leak, with the first being confirmed by the APL. The APL promised to complete a thorough investigation. Nothing ever came from it.
  6. Minutes before our tifo was scheduled to be displayed, a club representative informed us that the APL directed us to not proceed with our full tifo due to the awful attack in Bondi. Despite our remaining belief that our tifo display had no connection to those events, it’s remarkable how the original banner we submitted would have been less related to the situation than the "necessary" change mandated by the APL. We adamantly refused to comply with the directive (We told them to get fucked!).
To summarise, the challenges posed by third-party processes, coupled with the repeated breaches of confidentiality and the unsettling prospect of last-minute tifo cancellations by the APL, have left us unable to confidently invest our time and resources into future tifos. Until we feel assured about the reliability of the existing systems, we have decided not to proceed with any further tifo displays. We will resume our tifo activities only when we are satisfied with the procedures in place.
As we will continue to raise funds through merchandise sales, we believe it's important to maintain transparency regarding the allocation of your contributions. We will persist in dedicating these funds to enhancements within the home end, including the procurement of new banners, flags, and equipment such as megaphones and drums. In due course, we aspire to redirect our funds towards tifos, with an ongoing commitment to elevating the standard of our displays.
Thank you for your understanding.
The Cove
submitted by felvymups to Aleague [link] [comments]


2024.04.15 14:48 Axius- [Online][5e Homebrew-Living World][Short-term - Lvl 2 - Lvl 6][18+][Free][NEWBIE Friendly][GMT+11 AEST - PREFERRABLE] ~ Precipice of War

My group is in a quick holiday hiatus (some have gone overseas), and I am looking for three committed people to play a linear story-driven campaign starting Level 2 - might end at level 4 - 5 OR until the Main Quest Ends, depending on the campaign progression. This is a FREE Dnd Game, as it is a means to share the world my friends and I built together, all I want from you is your time and commitment!
This game will be played on Foundry VTT. You do NOT have to pay for the software nor anything, all you need to do is register to a server called The Forge and I give you a link and we play, it has similar functions like roll20 so you don't need to learn a lot to utilize it. I will be giving out 1-on-1 solo sessions before session 1, to give you a prior session before the main story, as well as a tutorial on how things work.
Synopsis of the Story: It is 1254 AE of the Auronian Calendar, by the Southern Continent of Mieve, within the Knightly Kingdom of Athalan, a Civil War ignites between the Great Houses. With the 14th King announced as deceased, the Queen Regent declared its’ governance to total Matriarchy, the realm is plunged into turmoil. Amidst the conflict, a man by the name of Paul Green, hires a group of individuals to take an important asset from one side of the Kingdom to another in hopes to aid the Rebellion’s effort to defy the Queen of Athalan and to turn the tide of the war. The campaign starts within the confines of the Tera Mines, where prisoners were used to mine steel ore for the war-efforts, they must work together to escape, and find Paul Green and his group of mercenaries called the Sons of Alvarion.
About Me: Hello yalls! My name is Nico, and I’ve been DM’ing since 2016 IRL as well as virtual to which I am mainly using the latter for my D&d fix. It’s been a passion and hobby for me to tell stories with my close friend group and we’ve been playing a single on-going campaign (88 sessions in since 2020 in-and-out). The world I’ve built has the elements of the classic Dungeons and Dragons so there will be familiarity, but for the past seven years I have been accumilating my own world building known as the Tales of Atriea.
Roleplay: I love voicing my NPCs but I am no voice-actor. I delve into them really deeply. Discover romance and betrayal, I revel in D&d in-game drama!
Combat: Encounters I fairly balance well enough to give a challenge, but Boss fights is where I truly shine.
Exploration: Dungeons are my forte as I play a lot of RPG games, and what I love about the concepts of dungeons is that, they aren’t really tied to temples and coves (as an example, a city when done in a specific way, can be planned as a dungeon) and I make my own maps in majority of the time!
What I expect from you:
This game is labelled free, only to the sole reason as my homegroup friends play this free and thus I think expanding our story beyond to those who would like to fill it with their own legends is another way to build such a living world, with no currency expense (your valuable time is all I want!). I expect you to give it the same patience, consistency and conviction when it comes to playing through the sessions as I do.
Time Frame: I am able Saturday Early Mornings or Evenings - Sundays.
Those who do go on to progress over level 10 off this Long-term campaign, I will commission your character an artwork!
I am in need of three new players - Closer timezones to GMT+10 AEST PREFERABLE. English is a MUST. All characters starts at lvl 2. 4d6 Ability System - WITH a Feat
Please let me know if you are interested by DMing me here, or adding me on Discord (my main VC platform) discord ID: 181415995884175360
Once I see your message, I will get back with you with a SURVEY detailing MORE about me and my friends' world, with a series of multiple choices to conduct if you are indeed what I am looking for! Happy D&ding!
submitted by Axius- to lfg [link] [comments]


2024.04.14 02:13 jdaltgang Demerara Dry Float for a wonderful spring day

Demerara Dry Float for a wonderful spring day
Using the classic smugglers cove recipe - 2oz lime -.25 oz lemon -.25oz dem -1.5 oz passion fruit -.25 maraschino liquor -1.5 oz Appleton estate -1 oz Overproof OFTD
submitted by jdaltgang to Tiki [link] [comments]


2024.04.11 14:57 BoatBookingIndia01 Exploring the Allure of Luxury Yachts in Goa with Boat Booking India

Nestled along the stunning Arabian Sea coastline, Goa isn't just famous for its sun-kissed beaches and vibrant nightlife; it's also a premier destination for luxury yacht experiences. Imagine gliding through azure waters, with the wind in your hair and the sun setting on the horizon, aboard a magnificent vessel. At Boat Booking India, we specialize in curating unforgettable yacht experiences, allowing you to indulge in the epitome of luxury while soaking in the beauty of Goa's coastal landscapes.
The Appeal of Luxury Yachts in Goa:
Goa's allure as a prime yachting destination lies in its perfect blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. With its expansive coastline and numerous secluded coves and bays, Goa offers endless possibilities for exploring aboard a luxury yacht. Whether you're seeking a serene sunset cruise, an adventurous island-hopping excursion, or a lively party on the waves, Goa has something to offer for every taste and preference.
Our Fleet of Luxury Yachts:
At Boat Booking India, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse fleet of luxury yachts to cater to the varied needs of our discerning clients. From sleek and stylish motor yachts to spacious and opulent sailing yachts, each vessel in our fleet is meticulously maintained and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and memorable experience. Whether you're planning an intimate romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a corporate event, we have the perfect yacht to suit your needs.
Expert Crew and Services:
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, our team at Boat Booking India consists of experienced professionals who are passionate about providing top-notch service. From skilled captains and crew members to attentive concierge staff, we go above and beyond to cater to your every need and ensure that your yacht charter experience exceeds your expectations. Whether you require personalized catering, onboard entertainment, or assistance with itinerary planning, our dedicated team is here to make your dream yacht experience a reality.
Exploring Goa's Coastal Wonders:
One of the highlights of chartering a luxury yacht in Goa is the opportunity to explore its breathtaking coastal wonders. From the iconic beaches of North Goa, such as Baga and Calangute, to the pristine shores of South Goa, including Palolem and Agonda, there's no shortage of stunning destinations to discover. You can anchor in secluded coves, swim in crystal-clear waters, and even embark on snorkeling or diving adventures to explore Goa's vibrant marine life up close.
Safety and Comfort:
At Boat Booking India, safety and comfort are our top priorities. Our luxury yachts undergo regular maintenance and safety inspections to ensure that they meet the highest standards of reliability and seaworthiness. We also provide comprehensive safety briefings before each charter and adhere to strict safety protocols to ensure that you can relax and enjoy your yacht experience with complete peace of mind.
Conclusion:
Experience the ultimate luxury yacht experience in Goa with Boat Booking India. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a corporate event, we have the perfect yacht to suit your needs. Contact us today to start planning your dream yacht charter in Goa!
Contact us to book your luxury yacht experience in Goa with Boat Booking India.
submitted by BoatBookingIndia01 to u/BoatBookingIndia01 [link] [comments]


2024.04.09 04:31 Technical_Top_2686 AITAH for wanting to leave my partner after our prom?

Alright, so just bear with me because this love sh*t has more k drama than a k drama.
So we are going to call this guy Luke.
Luke and I go way back to the days of playgrounds and musically. I was the chatterbox, always making friends, while he was the rando kid that was a bit of a background character. Despite our differences, there was always a spark between us (well at least to me) even if we were too young to realize it.
Life happened, and we drifted apart from middle school until fate decided to play matchmaker in high school. At that time we were in 10th grade. Seeing him again after all those years felt like fate's way of saying, "Hey, remember this guy? Yeah, you're not done with him yet!"
But, of course, things couldn't be that simple. Luke had a girlfriend (let’s name her Sarah) and it was like a dagger to the heart. To know that the crush that I like is dating one of my friends that sh*t is wild to me. I felt so hurt to the point where I was coving my tears and later that night gave myself tiger stripes, I tried to move on, but the universe had other plans. After a year their relationship hit the rocks, and suddenly I was somehow back back in the game, hoping for a shot at love without knowing it.
Us now in 12th grade, Sarah, the new player in our drama. She waltzed in like she owned the place, and suddenly I'm stuck in a V triad, straight out of a k drama series. It was like the universe was testing me, throwing obstacles in my path to see if I'd fight for what I wanted.
Spoiler alert: I fought like I was in a mean girl movie. I poured my heart out, went above and beyond to show Luke how much he meant to me, and maybe got a little too creative with my grand gestures (voodoo dolls, anyone? Just kidding... maybe).
So let me tell you that Luke is more than just a crush; he's a powerhouse of ambition, intelligence, and passion. His persuasive words and big dreams, like becoming a lawyer after being accepted into Boston University, leaving me in awe and wishing I could match his standards.
When Luke suggested a situationship, I was a bit torn. Part of me wanted to shout, "I deserve more than just a situationship!" But another part was whispering, "Maybe this is just the beginning of something great ."
Later on I’m in a constant cycle of uncertainty, torn between staying and leaving. Luke's behavior, from being overly friendly to brushing off my concerns, leaves me frustrated and unsure of our future.
In February, I reached a breaking point and attempted to end things with Luke because of how he was treating me. To my surprise, he responded with a flurry of heartfelt pleas, expressing love, and promising to do better. He went all out to convince me to stay, but deep down, I couldn't shake the nagging feeling that it might be a manipulative move on his part. The emotional tug-of-war left me questioning the sincerity of his words and the nature of our relationship.
Despite my doubts, I found myself giving in again, sending Luke gifts, giving him a bit of naughty photos, him receiving something from me personally, and trying to keep things going. But his habit of flipping the script saying that he felt as if he’s being used and saying how it’s a bit selfish of me to do this, and then sweetening things up after our arguments leaves me uneasy. I'm starting to question if this cycle is worth it and if he's really the right person for me. Especially for a first timer.
We talked about college and realized a long-distance relationship wouldn't work for us. Luke mentioned considering dating others but said college was his focus. However, people can change their minds, adding to the uncertainty of our situation.
Now, as prom looms on the horizon, I'm faced with a choice: do I stay on this rollercoaster ride of emotions, hoping for a Bittersweet ending? Or do I grab my bags and the exit to save myself from the potential heartbreak and drama ahead?
So, AITAH? what's your take on this overly complicated romance?
submitted by Technical_Top_2686 to legal [link] [comments]


2024.04.09 01:50 Technical_Top_2686 AITAH for wanting to leave my partner after our prom?

Alright, so just bear with me because this love sh*t has more k drama than a k drama.
So we are going to call this guy Luke.
Luke and I go way back to the days of playgrounds and musically. I was the chatterbox, always making friends, while he was the rando kid that was a bit of a background character. Despite our differences, there was always a spark between us (well at least to me) even if we were too young to realize it.
Life happened, and we drifted apart from middle school until fate decided to play matchmaker in high school. At that time we were in 10th grade. Seeing him again after all those years felt like fate's way of saying, "Hey, remember this guy? Yeah, you're not done with him yet!"
But, of course, things couldn't be that simple. Luke had a girlfriend (let’s name her Sarah) and it was like a dagger to the heart. To know that the crush that I like is dating one of my friends that sh*t is wild to me. I felt so hurt to the point where I was coving my tears and later that night gave myself tiger stripes, I tried to move on, but the universe had other plans. After a year their relationship hit the rocks, and suddenly I was somehow back back in the game, hoping for a shot at love without knowing it.
Us now in 12th grade, Sarah, the new player in our drama. She waltzed in like she owned the place, and suddenly I'm stuck in a V triad, straight out of a k drama series. It was like the universe was testing me, throwing obstacles in my path to see if I'd fight for what I wanted.
Spoiler alert: I fought like I was in a mean girl movie. I poured my heart out, went above and beyond to show Luke how much he meant to me, and maybe got a little too creative with my grand gestures (voodoo dolls, anyone? Just kidding... maybe).
So let me tell you that Luke is more than just a crush; he's a powerhouse of ambition, intelligence, and passion. His persuasive words and big dreams, like becoming a lawyer after being accepted into Boston University, leaving me in awe and wishing I could match his standards.
When Luke suggested a situationship, I was a bit torn. Part of me wanted to shout, "I deserve more than just a situationship!" But another part was whispering, "Maybe this is just the beginning of something great ."
Later on I’m in a constant cycle of uncertainty, torn between staying and leaving. Luke's behavior, from being overly friendly to brushing off my concerns, leaves me frustrated and unsure of our future.
In February, I reached a breaking point and attempted to end things with Luke because of how he was treating me. To my surprise, he responded with a flurry of heartfelt pleas, expressing love, and promising to do better. He went all out to convince me to stay, but deep down, I couldn't shake the nagging feeling that it might be a manipulative move on his part. The emotional tug-of-war left me questioning the sincerity of his words and the nature of our relationship.
Despite my doubts, I found myself giving in again, sending Luke gifts, giving him a bit of naughty photos, him receiving something from me personally, and trying to keep things going. But his habit of flipping the script saying that he felt as if he’s being used and saying how it’s a bit selfish of me to do this, and then sweetening things up after our arguments leaves me uneasy. I'm starting to question if this cycle is worth it and if he's really the right person for me. Especially for a first timer.
We talked about college and realized a long-distance relationship wouldn't work for us. Luke mentioned considering dating others but said college was his focus. However, people can change their minds, adding to the uncertainty of our situation.
Now, as prom looms on the horizon, I'm faced with a choice: do I stay on this rollercoaster ride of emotions, hoping for a Bittersweet ending? Or do I grab my bags and the exit to save myself from the potential heartbreak and drama ahead?
So, AITAH? what's your take on this overly complicated romance?
submitted by Technical_Top_2686 to AITAH [link] [comments]


2024.04.08 07:35 Uniform-Master Exploring Jersey: Unveiling the Charms of the Channel Islands

Nestled in the English Channel, Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Despite its small size, Jersey packs a punch with its stunning landscapes, fascinating heritage, and warm hospitality. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the myriad attractions and experiences that make Jersey a captivating destination worth exploring.
Geography and Location:
Jersey is situated approximately 100 miles south of mainland Britain and just 14 miles off the coast of France. It covers an area of 46 square miles, making it the largest of the Channel Islands. The island boasts a diverse geography, from rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to lush valleys and rolling countryside. Its temperate maritime climate ensures mild winters and warm summers, making it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures year-round.
History and Heritage:
Jersey has a rich and storied history that spans thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Stone Age. Over the centuries, the island has been inhabited by Celts, Romans, Vikings, and Normans, each leaving their mark on Jersey's cultural landscape.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Jersey is Mont Orgueil Castle, a medieval fortress perched atop a hill overlooking the sea. Built in the 13th century to defend the island against French invasion, the castle offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Jersey's turbulent past through its maze of towers, ramparts, and secret passages.
Another must-visit historical site is La Hougue Bie, a Neolithic burial mound and museum that provides insight into Jersey's prehistoric origins. Visitors can explore the ancient passage grave, which dates back over 6,000 years, and learn about the island's early inhabitants through interactive exhibits and archaeological artefacts.
During the Second World War, Jersey was occupied by German forces, leaving behind a legacy of fortifications and bunkers scattered across the island. Today, sites such as the Jersey War Tunnels offer a sobering reminder of Jersey's wartime history and the resilience of its people.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities:
Jersey's diverse landscape offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy. The island is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery, with rugged cliffs, sandy bays, and hidden coves waiting to be discovered.
One of Jersey's most iconic natural attractions is the La Corbière Lighthouse, situated on the southwestern tip of the island. Built-in 1874, the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding seascape and is particularly breathtaking at sunset.
For beach lovers, Jersey boasts a wealth of pristine sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. St. Brelade's Bay, with its golden sands and clear turquoise waters, is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Inland, Jersey's countryside is dotted with picturesque villages, meandering lanes, and verdant valleys, making it ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring on foot. The Jersey Green Lanes, a network of scenic country lanes restricted to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders, offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Culture and Cuisine:
Culture and Cuisine: Jersey's vibrant cultural scene reflects its rich heritage and diverse influences, from Celtic traditions to Norman architecture. The island's unique position in the English Channel has resulted in a fusion of cultures, creating a melting pot of artistic expression and culinary delights.
The thriving arts community in Jersey is a testament to the island's creative spirit. Galleries showcase the work of local artists, from traditional paintings inspired by Jersey's landscapes to contemporary sculptures exploring themes of identity and belonging. Theatres host performances ranging from classic plays to avant-garde productions, providing a platform for emerging talent and established performers alike. Cultural events, such as music festivals, dance performances, and literary readings, bring the community together to celebrate Jersey's vibrant artistic heritage.
In addition to its vibrant arts scene, Jersey is also renowned for its culinary excellence. The island's fertile soil and temperate climate provide the perfect conditions for growing a wide range of fresh produce, from Jersey Royals potatoes to succulent tomatoes and fragrant herbs. Local farmers and fishermen take pride in their craft, supplying restaurants and markets with the finest ingredients.
Jersey's culinary scene is a reflection of its cultural diversity, with influences from France, Britain, and beyond. Visitors can indulge in traditional Jersey dishes, such as seafood platters piled high with freshly caught lobster, crab, and oysters, or sample modern interpretations of classic recipes infused with international flavours.
Conclusion:
Jersey, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers visitors a wealth of experiences to discover and enjoy. From the ancient echoes of Neolithic burial mounds to the resilient spirit of World War II bunkers, the island is a tapestry of stories waiting to be explored. Whether you're wandering through medieval castles, soaking up the sun on sandy beaches, or savouring the flavours of local cuisine, Jersey invites you to immerse yourself in its charm and beauty. And for sports enthusiasts, Jersey offers a plethora of activities to indulge in, from thrilling water sports along its pristine coastline to exhilarating hikes through its lush countryside. Whether it's surfing the waves, cycling along scenic trails, or teeing off at world-class golf courses, Sports Jersey beckons adventure seekers to test their limits in its breathtaking natural playground.
Beyond its physical attractions, Jersey's true allure lies in the warmth and hospitality of its people. From the friendly greetings of villagers to the knowledgeable guides sharing stories of the island's past, visitors are welcomed with open arms and genuine enthusiasm. It's this sense of community and connection that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit Jersey. And for sports enthusiasts, the camaraderie and passion of local teams and clubs add an extra layer of excitement to the island's vibrant atmosphere.
As you bid farewell to this enchanting island in the heart of the English Channel, take with you memories of breathtaking vistas, moments of historical insight, and the taste of freshly caught seafood. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a culinary enthusiast, Jersey offers something to delight every traveller. Plan your visit today and discover the magic of Jersey – a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. And don't forget to pack your sports gear for an unforgettable adventure in Sports Jersey.
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2024.04.04 18:27 TonyYumYum Tempt Me by K.A. Tucker Free Audiobook and Review

"Tempt Me" by K.A. Tucker is the first book in the Wolf Hotel Series, a steamy contemporary romance set in the picturesque town of Crescent Cove. The story revolves around Lily Mercer, a successful interior designer, and her unexpected encounter with the charming and enigmatic Noah Wolf.
Lily is visiting Crescent Cove to oversee a renovation project at the historic Wolf Hotel when she crosses paths with Noah, the hotel's handsome owner. Despite their initial attraction, both Lily and Noah have reasons to resist getting involved with each other. Lily is determined to focus on her career and avoid romantic entanglements, while Noah is harboring secrets from his past that threaten to derail any chance of a future with Lily.
As Lily and Noah navigate their complicated feelings for each other, they find themselves drawn into a passionate and tumultuous relationship. Along the way, they must confront their fears, insecurities, and the obstacles that stand in the way of their happiness.
Reviews of "Tempt Me" praise its sizzling chemistry, engaging characters, and captivating storyline. Readers appreciate K.A. Tucker's skillful writing and her ability to create realistic and relatable characters. The novel's picturesque setting and steamy romance make it a perfect escape for fans of contemporary romance.
Overall, "Tempt Me" is a delightful and satisfying romance novel that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Wolf Hotel Series. With its compelling characters, emotional depth, and sensual romance, this book is sure to capture the hearts of romance readers everywhere.
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2024.04.01 19:27 Intelligent_Copy_494 [In Progress] [48,300] [Gay Romance] How the Other Half Dies

This is set in Chicago (my hometown) in the 1920s; my protagonists are newspaper reporters. There's alot going on about that time, including Al Capone and Leopold & Loeb, and I've done extensive research so the history is pretty spruce.
The younger reporter Terry Lausen realizes in chapter 2 that he's fallen in love with his mentor Caleb Marlowe -- which tells Terry he's gay himself. Cal (who's a Brit, btw) is actively gay, has an affair with a cop early on, but doesn't figure out about Terry for some time ... it's painful but I'm planning to keep them apart for several more chapters.
Here's an excerpt from the opening:
CHAPTER ONE CRIME PAYS
Wednesday, April 2, 1924
Chicago
Caleb Marlowe, crime reporter for the Chicago Herald-Examiner, wends a path through the hundreds of floral arrangements spilling across the sidewalks, muttering ideas for the article he’ll write: “Crime certainly pays for Dion O’Banion, owner of Schofield’s Flowers … Frank Capone, brother of infamous Al Capone, shot by police outside the Hawthorne Hotel in Cicero yesterday … alleged interference with the City Manager elections… funeral at the Capone home at 7244 South Prairie Avenue attended by lawmen and outlaws alike ….”
“Who are all these guys?” Terry Lausen’s eyes are even wider than usual in his thin face; this spectacle is his first contact with the lifestyle of the rich and infamous in Jazz Age Chicago. Terry started at the Herald-Examiner only this week and Caleb is showing him the ropes, as they’d known one another previously at the Daily News. The Herald-Examiner glories in stealing talent from its competitors, for journalism is a cutthroat business, with six daily newspapers vying to entertain Chicago’s three million sensation-hungry residents … and Chicago in 1924 provides plenty of sensation to write about.
Terry is thrilled to have Caleb Moore as his mentor. The older reporter wears an aura of self-confidence that falls crucially short of self-importance, for a vagrant childhood and the struggle to survive since he emigrated from England at nineteen have left Caleb cognizant of—though not crushed by—the vicissitudes of life. “Cal, who are these people?”
“Eh? Oh, we’ve all sorts at this affair,” Caleb begins. “That’s Al and Ralph at the door, of course; I’ll introduce you when we get there.”
Terry’s enormous blue eyes grow impossibly wider. “Meet Al Capone!”
“Too right—we’re at his home, aren’t we? There, see the bloke shaking hands with him just now? That’s ‘Big Bill’ Thompson, our ex- and future mayor.”
“Future? How can you know that?”
Caleb laughs shortly. “How do I know? He’s shaking hands with Al Capone, isn’t he? With Capone’s backing, Thompson’s sure to oust Mayor Dever in 1927. Any road, folks are already tired of Dever’s war on beer. If a working cove can’t get a pint at the pub … daft.”
“So you’re against prohibition?”
“I’m sensible aren’t I? Any politico who tried this shite in Blighty would be bloody well strung up—hooch illegal, I ask you! The law’s mad, and only a few barmy temperance dames ever wanted it. You can’t legislate a man’s pleasures—or if you do, blokes like Capone will take it over, and then where are you?”
“Who’s that standing next to Capone?” Terry brings him back to business.
“Oh you have to know Johnny Torrio! He’s Capone’s mentor, his capo. Torrio knocked off Big Jim Colosimo in 1920 and took over his action in betting and women—that’s an empire in itself—then Congress gave him a lift with the Volsted Act and he expanded into bootlegging. His Outfit controls the Loop and most of the South Side, not to mention Cicero. Capone’s his right-hand man.”
Terry studies Torrio, whose mild features don’t fit anyone’s conception of a gangster. Capone’s swarthy face, with its hooded eyes, thick lips, and prominent scar on the left cheek, looks the part far more. But, “He looks so young … Capone, I mean.”
“He’s twenty-seven, just one year older than me.” Caleb flashes his crooked grin. “Seems I’m in the wrong business yeah? There’s more money in crime than in scribbling, that’s sure. But there’s disadvantages too, as Frank learned. No, I’ll keep my job. I’m not keen to be dodging bullets.”
Terry’s attention is caught by a pair of uniformed policemen; as he watches they exchange a few words with a shady-looking man in a pearl-grey fedora, then each policeman pockets an envelope. “I think those cops just accepted a bribe!” he hisses to Caleb.
“Absotively posilutely—they say sixty percent of the Force is on Capone’s payroll—which doesn’t mean the other forty percent are clean, just that they’re owned by Dion O’Banion and his North-Siders. I’ve a reliable source says Capone pays out thirty thousand simoleons every week in bribes, mostly to the police. No, if you want to find an honest bobby in Chicago you need to look on the breadline … or the morgue.”
“Is it truly that bad?” Terry looks like a child who’s been told the truth about Santa Claus.
Caleb feels a pang; once he too believed in law and order, but the education he’s received as a crime reporter in Chicago, as well as from the Chicago Socialist Party, has scoured away any vestige of credulity. Still: “Don’t despair, mate,” he says gently. “You’ll see, Congress will come to their senses and repeal Prohibition, and the country can put itself back together. Meantime, ours not to reason why, ours just to do and write, innit?” Caleb peers about the throng of people. “I wonder where Deanie … ah, there he is, see him? Dion O’Banion?”
“Sure, I’ve seen him in my neighborhood. He doesn’t look like a hood; more like a …”
“A florist, right? That’s his front, he owns Schofield Flowers. He’s bloody swell at it too. These flowers are bang up to the elephant, I’d say.”
They approach the door where the Capone brothers are greeting visitors and Caleb extends his hand confidently. “Mr. Capone, my condolences. I’m Caleb Marlowe, Herald-Examiner, and this is my colleague Terry Lausen. You’ll be seeing his byline soon.”
“Thanks, Caleb.” The voice is suitably rough but quite civil. “I read your work. Can’t say I agree with your Socialist politics, but I admire a man with principles.”
“As do I, Mr. Capone … Mr. Ralph Capone, my condolences.”
Ralph nods, and the journalists enter the Capone home.
The flowers on the lawn are just the overflow from the lavish displays in the house; though Caleb and Terry step gingerly there’s no way to keep from treading on rose petals. Their aroma mingles with delicious smells wafting from the dining room, where long tables groan under platters of antipasti and sliced meats, bowls of sausages and meatballs, and vast pans of lasagna and mostaccioli. Men in pale fedoras are interspersed through the guests. Holding the funeral openly in the Capone home has attracted an enormous crowd—mostly Italians, with a liberal sprinkling of curiosity-seekers—for Al Capone deliberately cultivates a flashy, glamorous image, in contrast to other mobsters who prefer to keep a low profile.
Seated regally on a sofa in the centre of the main room is Teresina Capone, plain-faced and heavy from bearing nine children, wearing a vast black lace gown glittering with jet beads.
“Mrs. Capone, my deepest condolences,” Caleb greets her. “I’m Caleb Marlowe, Chicago Herald-Examiner. Care to give a statement for my readers?”
The woman’s look is a curious amalgam of anger and appeal. “I hope you’re not going to write one of those horrible stories about my sons being criminals.”
“I’ll write whatever you say, ma’am.” Cal’s notebook materializes in his hand.
“My sons are good, loyal family boys. How many men in Chicago give their mother and sister such a fine home? Alphonse is devoted to us, and to his wife and son.”
“And Frank?” Caleb scribbles rapidly.
“My poor Frank was in Cicero looking at property for a restaurant. They accused him of interfering with the election … why, he didn’t even know there was an election going on!”
Caleb, rendered momentarily speechless by this preposterous statement, is interrupted by Teresina’s daughter Mafalda, who says acidly, “Sir, my family is in mourning. Show us the decency of not intruding on our grief.” And: “Never mind, Mama. All newspapermen are villano.” The insult rolls off Cal, who’s happy with the quote he’s cozened from the mother of the deceased. Absurd comments make fine copy.
They line up for their requisite look at the corpse, laid out in a lavish casket of bronze and silver. The sight curls Caleb’s lip. “There’s kinchin in Chicago don’t get three proper meals a week, and they shell out … how much? Five grand? … that’s a lot of clams to spend on a box for a bloke to rot in. Is that right?”
“Capone called you a Socialist.” Terry eyes the veteran journalist warily. “Isn’t that like Communist?”
“Not at all! Communism creates a small, obscenely wealthy political elite, while the proletariat are left to starve—classless society?—ha! tell to Sweeney! But Socialism is just the opposite: Socialism’s about better working conditions, and care for the sick and elderly, and universal suffrage ….”
Caleb is gesturing fervently and Terry is rapt, but a tap on the shoulder makes Cal whirl. “Eh, bud … yer at a funeral, capisce? Show some respect.”
Caleb holds his ground: “I was speaking privately to my friend here.”
“You was speakin’ in the presence of the deceased an’ his family. I’ll say it again: Show respect.”
To Terry’s alarm Cal begins to bridle, but a low voice intervenes: “What’s going on here?”
Caleb recognizes Frank Nitti, Al Capone’s right-hand man. “Mr. Nitti, my colleague and I were having a private conversation, and this berk here muscled in and told me to shut my gob.”
Nitti glances at the hoodlum. “That right, Joey? He was just talkin’, not doin’ nothin’?”
“Well no, Frank, not doin’ nothin’, but he was talkin’ about Commies and stuff … it’s not respectful, right here in front of the departed …”
“All right then Joey, I’ll take care of it.”
The thug departs with a final scowl and Frank places a gentle hand on Caleb’s shoulder. “Mr. Capone is a good friend of the press, you know that, but this is a sad occasion. You might want to show more reverence for the family’s grief.”
Caleb, recognizing his peril, has cooled down rapidly. “You’re right, and I apologize. Thanks for stepping in then Mr. Nitti.”
The manicured hand pats Caleb’s shoulder sympathetically. “You’re a fine reporter, Marlowe. You might want to consider doing a special article about Al sometime—the public only hears about bad things, like gambling and rum-running. It’d be good to tell people about the soup kitchens Al’s set up, and how he helps the Italian community …”
“I’d be chuffed to do that, wouldn’t I! Could I interview Mr. Capone?”
“He’s got lots on his mind right now, with losing his brother …” Nitti slips a card into Caleb’s hand. “This number will get directly to me. Call me in a couple of weeks, okay?”
“I’ll do that for certain, Mr. Nitti. And thanks.”
Nitti melts into the crowd, leaving Terry staring at his mentor. “Holy smokes, Cal, I thought we were gonna get the bum’s rush there.”
“You’re lucky that mobster didn’t take you for a ride,” says another voice behind them.
Caleb turns, grins. “Cheers, Steve. You heard that? Terry, you remember Steve Horvath from Daily News. C’mon mates, let’s move to a quieter spot.”
“And how, I heard all that. You’ve the luck of Riley, Marlowe: one minute you’re gonna be sleeping with the fishes, the next you’ve got an exclusive interview.”
“Native charm and clean living,” Caleb laughs.
“Can you believe this guy?” Horvath says to Terry. “Going into a Socialist diatribe in Al Capone’s house …”
“Got away with it didn’t I?” Caleb glances at the casket, where three Italian matrons are kneeling, rosaries at hand. “Bloody hell and baby Jesus I wonder what old Frank is saying to St. Peter right now.”
Steve hoots. “As if he’d get anywhere near there! No, Frank Capone’s gone straight to a place with a much warmer climate.”
“He didn’t die in vain, any road. Joe Klenha will be City Manager of Cicero for as long as Al Capone wants him there.”
“So the elections were rigged?” Terry asks ingenuously.
Horvath snorts. “Rigged? These people don’t just stuff ballot boxes, they kidnap campaign workers and send voters home with a broken head and no vote cast. When the cops saw Frank they just assumed he was up to no good and opened fire.”
“But that’s terrible!” cries the younger man.
“Why? It’s another hoodlum off the streets,” the Daily News man scoffs.
“But was he doing anything wrong when they saw him? You can’t just shoot a guy because he’s got a bad reputation. Maybe his mother was right and he was looking at a restaurant site.”
Steve gives the fledgling reporter a scornful look but Caleb’s eyes brighten. “Good angle, mate. There’s outrage about corrupt cops, but what about a policeman who’s overzealous against the Outfit?” His eyes go smokey as he dictates under his breath: “Due process seems another police function routinely ignored with certain elements; Frank Capone was shot on sight, with no evidence of criminal intent …” Caleb breaks off at the sound of a scuffle and all three journalists instinctively move closer to the disturbance.
“Jeez, that’s two of O’Banion’s guys,” murmurs Horvath. “Wonder what they’re doing here.”
“They declared a cease-fire for the funeral,” Caleb assures, but he looks uneasy.
“Looks like some of them haven’t got the word yet. Whoa! Look out!” Steve Horvath ducks away as .25 Berettas appear from vest pockets and spit fire. Their targets, two of Capone’s men, crumple to the floor.
As Terry watches in paralyzed fascination, several hoods materialize holding Thompson submachine guns, the iconic mobster weapon. The victims are on the floor, swearing and bleeding copiously, but the two shooters are already being frogmarched away by the Tommy-gun-bearing guards, leaving Frank Nitti and Dion O’Banion talking urgently as any uniformed policemen in the vicinity fade rapidly into the background. O’Banion sighs and nods, then turns and shakes hands remorsefully with Al Capone.
Caleb darts to Frank Nitti. “Mr. Nitti, can you tell us what happened here?”
Nitti eyes him. “A regrettable accident. Those two hoodlums got the wrong address; they were looking for the Genna brothers, who as you know are notorious gangsters.”
“So they’ll be turned over to the police?” asks Caleb ironically.
“Oh no, this was a mistake, no need to involve police. We’re returning them to their boss, who will surely punish them for acting wrongly.”
“Surely,” Caleb agrees dryly. “Names?”
“I didn’t get their names.”
“And the names of the two men who were shot?”
“Shot?” Nitti gazes back at him blandly. “You’re mistaken, Marlowe. Jimmie and Rocco stumbled—they’re clumsy fellows. Nobody was shot.”
“A lot of people saw it,” Caleb protests.
“You think so?” Nitti turns to a man standing nearby. “Louie, did you see anybody get shot?”
“Shot? Naw, Frank, I din’t see nothin’ like that.”
Nitti chooses another. “How about you, Angelo? Did you see any shooting?”
“A car backfired when them two hoods was shovin’ Jimmie and Rocco, but naw, there wasn’t no shootin’.”
Nitti turns to Caleb, eyebrows raised.
“Silly of me,” says Caleb satirically.
Nitti claps his shoulder. “An understandable error. I’ll be expecting your call.”
“Right then.” Caleb snaps his notebook shut. “Thank you, Mr. Nitti, and again, my apologies for being disruptive earlier.”
“You’re a passionate young guy, Marlowe. Al respects that.”
At the Hearst Building on the corner of Madison and Market Streets, Caleb and Terry report to Harry Romanoff, the night city editor who’s putting together tomorrow afternoon’s paper. "Romy" is a stout, cigar-chomping, order-barking curmudgeon who is respected as ardently as he is feared by the entire staff.
“Any action?” he growls now to Caleb.
“Aye, two men shot, but Frank Nitti said it was all a mistake—a car backfired.”
“Yeah, tell it to Sweeney. Well, you know what to do, Marlowe.”
“Right you are,” Cal turns for the door with a quick salute.
“What does he mean?” Terry whispers.
“He means we’ve to ginger it up—plenty of speculation and political commentary. Go on now, write it up, and mind you make it sensational. Any bits I like from yours I’ll include with mine won’t I?”
Thrilled by the opportunity, Terry begins scribbling while Caleb begins: ‘Crime pays for florist Dion O’Banion, though not for Frank Capone, brother of renowned Al Capone …’
Terry finishes first and stands watching Caleb pound haphazardly at the old Royal on his desk. He somehow never hits a wrong key in his offhand rattling, and his copy looks like a stenographer’s work.
Finishing, Caleb looks up at his apprentice. “That was quick,” he approves. “What’ve you got then?”
Nervously Terry hands him two sheets of paper covered in a scrawling but oddly legible hand. “Too long,” Cal says automatically, but he reads it with mounting interest. “Right then: mind if I borrow this bit here?”
“Sure!” Terry tries not to sound too eager. “Which part did you like?”
Caleb reads: “‘A confessed murderess with a pretty face gets a jury trial, but Mt. Carmel Cemetery is Frank Capone’s courtroom, shot dead the moment the patrolling officer recognized him. Evidently simply being known as a bad actor is enough to circumvent due process—at least for those law enforcement personnel not on retainer to ignore breweries, speakeasies, and entertainment venues of lesser repute ….’ That’s brilliant, Terry. Ties it all together and reminds the reader we’ll be covering Beauteous Beulah’s murder trial next week. That hook to the future is a flash trick, not always easy to do so smoothly right? Aye, that bit’s better than mine.”
Terry beams. “Thanks Cal, that’s super of you!”
“Only your due innit? Here, lemme just …” Caleb rolls a fresh sheet into his typewriter and clatters furiously for several minutes, then rips it out, yelling, “Copy boy!” A freckled youth dashes up, snatches the page and sprints for Romy’s desk. “That’s done then, it’s me for home.”
“Would you like to get a sandwich or …” Terry’s voice trails off as he reads the dismissal on the other man’s face.
“Ta awfully but I’m that knackered aren’t I? Another time then?” Caleb lies. He can see the disappointment on the younger man’s face, but he has no intention of bringing Terry—or anyone else—where’s he’s going tonight.
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