Allied chemical company water supply tre
Did the British East India Company have a realistic chance of being independent and succeed?
2024.05.26 07:00 Vir-victus Did the British East India Company have a realistic chance of being independent and succeed?
The relationship between England - later Great Britain - and the East India Company is somewhat complicated, even more so since it spanned over almost three centuries and evolved quite a lot during this time. Given the vast territory, the power, the infamy and overall the legacy associated with and ascribed to the East India Company, many people have wondered about and still ponder the question: Could the East India Company have declared independence? Could they have done so and gotten away with it?
The answer to this question is - generally speaking - the same, no matter which timeframe you look at, but the specifics and the circumstances however may necessitate further elaboration on why independence wasnt possible.
So lets start with the hypothesis: The East India Companys Court of Directors (or Committees, as they were called before 1709) declares its independence from the Crown and State, perhaps even backed by the Court of Proprietors, their shareholders' general assembly and their version of Parliament. What would happen next?
The Companys leadership, its wealth and central institutions and personnel were all situated in London, and would in all probability be arrested by English and British authorities and tried for treason and sedition. Their wealth, their assests, their estates would be confiscated, their ships anchoring or moored in English ports and the wares on them be seized and impounded. Any ship that would have made it out beforehand would be hunted by the Royal Navy, including Company men on them. Further, many wealthy members of the Company simply would NOT have gone along with these plans, after all it was the British state, its colonies and allies that the Company did trade dealings with, and their connections to the English and British political and economical elite was far too much a profitable network to forego. It would - simply put - NOT be in their interest to shoot themselves in the foot.
Which brings us to India itself: Obviously the territorial and military presence of the Company in India underwent huge changes overtime and varies quite extensively depeneding on which point in time you look at. In the 'early' days, being in the 17th century, The English held several settlements and trading outposts along Indias coastline, such as Madras or Bombay. Now, if any high-ranking Company members had made it there by chance and escaped English ships on the hunt for them, would they be safe in India? Would the local officials and soldiers go along with their plans for independence? Absolutely NOT. You remember Sir Edward Winter? Well, he is one of the prime examples for the fact that the Companys leadership had only little control over their local Agents and Governors in India, they could not be trusted to do the Companys bidding and obey their instructions, the same applies to their military officers, even as late as the 1760s during the Mutiny of European Officers. Why would they go along with such a plan to begin with? Many had ties to English nobility (or were part of it), had estates and wealth in England they would not risk to lose (or would hope to be compensated and rewared for staying loyal to England in the long run). Many of the troops in India in the 17th century were Royal Troops, such as the garrison in bombay in the 1680s, which up until recently had been the property and was in possession of the English Crown, as the Company hardly had an army of their own at that time. And lets not forget local Indian rulers and powers, such as the Mughal Empire. Supporting a seditious Company, deprived of its leadership and assets back in England, would hardly look like a viable option, and the Company had waged a short war (Anglo-Mughal War) against the Mughals in the 1680s. Its unlikely the Mughals would support the Company against the English, but bid their chances and throw them out.
Lets look at this in another timeframe: 1757-1773/1784. The Company has become a territorial power after the battle of Plassey and and exerts de facto control over Bengal and a smattering of other regions adjacent to it or in close proximity, such as the Northern Circars. Their army numbers at a few ten thousand men, and their interests in India are represented and pursued by 'loyal' Agents such as Robert Clive or Warren Hastings, while Government has not yet intervened in such a manner as they would with the Regulating Act from 1773 onwards (at least as far as looking at it pre-1773 is concerned). The problem remains that most of the Companys leadership and their assets (as well as that of those men already in India) was in England and Britain, which would be confiscated by British authorites, something the Company men would not have been to keen about. In addition, the Companys trade activities would run the huge risk of being intercepted and attacked by British war fleets and alike, their ports blockaded and no new supplies coming in from England - money, ammunition and the likes. There is also another factor to consider that speficically applies pre-1773: In 1772, the Company was at 1.2 million pounds in debt (and it would rise to 3-4 million pounds by the 1780s), much owed to the Corruption and the ever increasing size of the Indian army, and without state given loans (and trade) to help the Company out, financial and total collapse would have been very likely. Even worse, the Companys military situation was far from stable, let alone anything close to having established dominance in India. The Company had fought Mysore in 1767-69, and from 1775-1782 would be entangled with the Maratha states, and then again from 1780-84 with Mysore once more. The latter two wars only were concluded with (somewhat of) a status quo ante bellum. Such a vulnerable Company would be easy prey for such major powers within India. And who would lead them? Before the 1773 Regulating Act, all of the Governors witihin the presidencies in India were equal in rank - and with the home government in London arrested and gone, who would assume power? Coordination of joint efforts would be catastrophic, if the local authorities would even want to try for it. Dependence on the state for money and support was very much needed, even in this time. Sure, Warren Hastings became the Governor General, and a local centralized authory in India then had been established, but a consolidated rule and position of power had not.
The third timeline we want to look at is pretty much everything post-1784 and from 1797 onwards. We have featured the 1784 India Act to great lengths on this sub already, so I will be brief: The Government becomes the superior arbiter of Indias administration and the Company itself via the Board of Control. The Board has access to all documtents, records and correspondence of the Company, especially with their local Agents in India. The Board has to ratify every major instruction sent to India, and becomes the primary and sole decision maker in 1833. The state also employs a permament military contingent stationed within India, by 1813 around 20,000 men. The Governor General can only be appointed with the states approval, and after 1784 there is only one man that can be said to be from the Companys ranks to have become Governor General: John Shore (tenure 1793-1797/98). After this time, ALL of the appointed Governor Generals are British statesmen, politicians and generals, even several members of the Board of Control among them, such as Richard Wellesley. - Effectively after 1784 and even more after 1797 (or already at 1786 with Cornwallis becoming Governor General), any hopes at independence would be futile. The Company was under supervision from the Government, and local control in British India firmly placed into the hands of men that enjoyed the trust of the state and could be trusted to act in its interests.
Another point to be made is a legal one. For a little throwback, the first Charter handed and granted to the Company in 1600, stipulated that the Crown always reserved itself the right to let the Charter expire or outright terminate it, should it see it fit and deem it proper. The same applies to the British parliament later on. What is perhaps more important, the Crown DID make use of that right. The crisis of 1693-1709 has been mentioned on this sub several times before. In the 1690s, the Company had a fall out of sorts with and fell out of terms/Favour with King William III over unpaid and pending taxes, and an unsatisfied desire by the King for further financial support from the Company. He sold the Charter and the monopoly on India trade to another, newly founded and constituted trading Company, which was later merged with the Old East India Company in 1709 to form a new Corporation, that would further support and sponsor the Crown. - The British Crown and state would resort to 'drastic' measures if the Company showed to be reluctant to obey its command and instructions, and any attempt at independence would be met with equal if not worse measures.
Sources include:
Bowen, Huw V.: ,,The 'Little Parliament': The General Court of the East India Company, 1750-1784‘‘. The Historical Journal, Vol. 34, No. 4 (Dec., 1991), p. 857-872.
Charter Act - 1784 (British Parliament Act).
Charter Act - 1813 (British Parliament Act).
Charter Act - 1833 (British Parliament Act).
Charter of 1600 - Elizabeth I.
Charters of 1693-1698 - William III.
Charters of 1702-1709 - Anne I.
India Act - 1784 (British Parliament Act).
Keay, John: ,,The honourable company. A history of the English East India Company‘‘. Harper Collins Publishers: London 1993.
Kortmann, Mike: ,,Söldner oder Gentleman? Die Offiziere der East India Company‘‘. In: Stig Förster, Christian Jansen, Günther Kronenbitter (Hg.): ,,Rückkehr der Condottieri? Krieg und Militär zwischen staatlichem Monopol und Privatisierung‘‘. Schöningh: Paderborn, 2010. p. 205-222.
Moon, Penderel: ,,The British conquest and dominion of India‘‘. Duckworth: London 1989.
Veevers, David: ,,the contested state‘‘. In: Andrew William Pettigrew: ,,The East India company 1600-1857: essays on Anglo Indian connection‘‘. Routledge: London/New York 2017. p. 175-192.
submitted by Vir-victus to BEIC_EastIndiaCompany [link] [comments]
The answer to this question is - generally speaking - the same, no matter which timeframe you look at, but the specifics and the circumstances however may necessitate further elaboration on why independence wasnt possible.
So lets start with the hypothesis: The East India Companys Court of Directors (or Committees, as they were called before 1709) declares its independence from the Crown and State, perhaps even backed by the Court of Proprietors, their shareholders' general assembly and their version of Parliament. What would happen next?
The Companys leadership, its wealth and central institutions and personnel were all situated in London, and would in all probability be arrested by English and British authorities and tried for treason and sedition. Their wealth, their assests, their estates would be confiscated, their ships anchoring or moored in English ports and the wares on them be seized and impounded. Any ship that would have made it out beforehand would be hunted by the Royal Navy, including Company men on them. Further, many wealthy members of the Company simply would NOT have gone along with these plans, after all it was the British state, its colonies and allies that the Company did trade dealings with, and their connections to the English and British political and economical elite was far too much a profitable network to forego. It would - simply put - NOT be in their interest to shoot themselves in the foot.
Which brings us to India itself: Obviously the territorial and military presence of the Company in India underwent huge changes overtime and varies quite extensively depeneding on which point in time you look at. In the 'early' days, being in the 17th century, The English held several settlements and trading outposts along Indias coastline, such as Madras or Bombay. Now, if any high-ranking Company members had made it there by chance and escaped English ships on the hunt for them, would they be safe in India? Would the local officials and soldiers go along with their plans for independence? Absolutely NOT. You remember Sir Edward Winter? Well, he is one of the prime examples for the fact that the Companys leadership had only little control over their local Agents and Governors in India, they could not be trusted to do the Companys bidding and obey their instructions, the same applies to their military officers, even as late as the 1760s during the Mutiny of European Officers. Why would they go along with such a plan to begin with? Many had ties to English nobility (or were part of it), had estates and wealth in England they would not risk to lose (or would hope to be compensated and rewared for staying loyal to England in the long run). Many of the troops in India in the 17th century were Royal Troops, such as the garrison in bombay in the 1680s, which up until recently had been the property and was in possession of the English Crown, as the Company hardly had an army of their own at that time. And lets not forget local Indian rulers and powers, such as the Mughal Empire. Supporting a seditious Company, deprived of its leadership and assets back in England, would hardly look like a viable option, and the Company had waged a short war (Anglo-Mughal War) against the Mughals in the 1680s. Its unlikely the Mughals would support the Company against the English, but bid their chances and throw them out.
Lets look at this in another timeframe: 1757-1773/1784. The Company has become a territorial power after the battle of Plassey and and exerts de facto control over Bengal and a smattering of other regions adjacent to it or in close proximity, such as the Northern Circars. Their army numbers at a few ten thousand men, and their interests in India are represented and pursued by 'loyal' Agents such as Robert Clive or Warren Hastings, while Government has not yet intervened in such a manner as they would with the Regulating Act from 1773 onwards (at least as far as looking at it pre-1773 is concerned). The problem remains that most of the Companys leadership and their assets (as well as that of those men already in India) was in England and Britain, which would be confiscated by British authorites, something the Company men would not have been to keen about. In addition, the Companys trade activities would run the huge risk of being intercepted and attacked by British war fleets and alike, their ports blockaded and no new supplies coming in from England - money, ammunition and the likes. There is also another factor to consider that speficically applies pre-1773: In 1772, the Company was at 1.2 million pounds in debt (and it would rise to 3-4 million pounds by the 1780s), much owed to the Corruption and the ever increasing size of the Indian army, and without state given loans (and trade) to help the Company out, financial and total collapse would have been very likely. Even worse, the Companys military situation was far from stable, let alone anything close to having established dominance in India. The Company had fought Mysore in 1767-69, and from 1775-1782 would be entangled with the Maratha states, and then again from 1780-84 with Mysore once more. The latter two wars only were concluded with (somewhat of) a status quo ante bellum. Such a vulnerable Company would be easy prey for such major powers within India. And who would lead them? Before the 1773 Regulating Act, all of the Governors witihin the presidencies in India were equal in rank - and with the home government in London arrested and gone, who would assume power? Coordination of joint efforts would be catastrophic, if the local authorities would even want to try for it. Dependence on the state for money and support was very much needed, even in this time. Sure, Warren Hastings became the Governor General, and a local centralized authory in India then had been established, but a consolidated rule and position of power had not.
The third timeline we want to look at is pretty much everything post-1784 and from 1797 onwards. We have featured the 1784 India Act to great lengths on this sub already, so I will be brief: The Government becomes the superior arbiter of Indias administration and the Company itself via the Board of Control. The Board has access to all documtents, records and correspondence of the Company, especially with their local Agents in India. The Board has to ratify every major instruction sent to India, and becomes the primary and sole decision maker in 1833. The state also employs a permament military contingent stationed within India, by 1813 around 20,000 men. The Governor General can only be appointed with the states approval, and after 1784 there is only one man that can be said to be from the Companys ranks to have become Governor General: John Shore (tenure 1793-1797/98). After this time, ALL of the appointed Governor Generals are British statesmen, politicians and generals, even several members of the Board of Control among them, such as Richard Wellesley. - Effectively after 1784 and even more after 1797 (or already at 1786 with Cornwallis becoming Governor General), any hopes at independence would be futile. The Company was under supervision from the Government, and local control in British India firmly placed into the hands of men that enjoyed the trust of the state and could be trusted to act in its interests.
Another point to be made is a legal one. For a little throwback, the first Charter handed and granted to the Company in 1600, stipulated that the Crown always reserved itself the right to let the Charter expire or outright terminate it, should it see it fit and deem it proper. The same applies to the British parliament later on. What is perhaps more important, the Crown DID make use of that right. The crisis of 1693-1709 has been mentioned on this sub several times before. In the 1690s, the Company had a fall out of sorts with and fell out of terms/Favour with King William III over unpaid and pending taxes, and an unsatisfied desire by the King for further financial support from the Company. He sold the Charter and the monopoly on India trade to another, newly founded and constituted trading Company, which was later merged with the Old East India Company in 1709 to form a new Corporation, that would further support and sponsor the Crown. - The British Crown and state would resort to 'drastic' measures if the Company showed to be reluctant to obey its command and instructions, and any attempt at independence would be met with equal if not worse measures.
Sources include:
Bowen, Huw V.: ,,The 'Little Parliament': The General Court of the East India Company, 1750-1784‘‘. The Historical Journal, Vol. 34, No. 4 (Dec., 1991), p. 857-872.
Charter Act - 1784 (British Parliament Act).
Charter Act - 1813 (British Parliament Act).
Charter Act - 1833 (British Parliament Act).
Charter of 1600 - Elizabeth I.
Charters of 1693-1698 - William III.
Charters of 1702-1709 - Anne I.
India Act - 1784 (British Parliament Act).
Keay, John: ,,The honourable company. A history of the English East India Company‘‘. Harper Collins Publishers: London 1993.
Kortmann, Mike: ,,Söldner oder Gentleman? Die Offiziere der East India Company‘‘. In: Stig Förster, Christian Jansen, Günther Kronenbitter (Hg.): ,,Rückkehr der Condottieri? Krieg und Militär zwischen staatlichem Monopol und Privatisierung‘‘. Schöningh: Paderborn, 2010. p. 205-222.
Moon, Penderel: ,,The British conquest and dominion of India‘‘. Duckworth: London 1989.
Veevers, David: ,,the contested state‘‘. In: Andrew William Pettigrew: ,,The East India company 1600-1857: essays on Anglo Indian connection‘‘. Routledge: London/New York 2017. p. 175-192.
2024.05.26 06:08 wii_UUU Character
 | I couldn't post these to the kengan Ashura sub Reddit submitted by wii_UUU to u/wii_UUU [link] [comments] |
2024.05.26 06:04 GuiltlessMaple Best Damascus Fixed Blade
 | submitted by GuiltlessMaple to u/GuiltlessMaple [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/nl5i0jnb3p2d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b8475f534d26ac48cabe4cff0773087160e5689c Discover the world of Damascus Fixed Blade, a mesmerizing collection of knives that combine aesthetics and functionality. In this roundup, we take you on a journey through the most captivating Damascus fixed blade products, delving into their unique features, history, and craftsmanship. Get ready to indulge in a visual feast and uncover the artistry behind these stunning knives. The Top 5 Best Damascus Fixed Blade
Reviews🔗Luxurious Carbon Pattern Damascus Bowie Knife, 12" Fixed Bladehttps://preview.redd.it/l8rmthyb3p2d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=77ba2032c91f137bba80800f5eb63e5251783ebd When I first received the Bowie Knife, I couldn't help but be impressed with its beauty. The intricate folded Patterned Damascus steel, made with 1095 steel, truly shines. I've tested it outdoors, using it for various purposes such as cooking, skinning, and even whittling wood. The knife remains as sharp as ever, with no signs of significant wear. One feature that stood out to me is the knife's balance and weight. This makes it versatile and convenient to use, whether I'm camping or at home. The composite handle also feels comfortable in my hands, providing a strong grip. The length of the blade is just right for a variety of tasks. While using the knife, I noticed that it's perfect for creating a walking stick, making cutting branches much easier than with an ax. Overall, this Bowie Knife is a fantastic addition to my collection and has proven to be useful in many situations. Its artistry and craftsmanship make it a beautiful and functional item that I'm proud to own. 🔗Damascus Fixed Blade Knife: 6.38" in Overall Lengthhttps://preview.redd.it/huoriqkc3p2d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b4d8443debfa89917fc44d2b9482d1982d76f081 Hey guys, I recently got my hands on the Damascus Knife Blade ADS061, and let me tell you, it's a thing of beauty. It's got this sleek and shiny look to it, thanks to its one-piece Damascus steel construction. It's so easy to hold and use, with a finger ring and lanyard hole for added convenience. Speaking of convenience, I have to say I'm a bit disappointed with how bulky it is. It's not exactly a pocket-friendly blade, but I suppose that's a tradeoff for its durability. And on the topic of durability, let me tell you, this bad boy is a tough one. It's got a full tang, which means it's built to last, but it's also got a bit of a weight to it. But you know what? Despite its bulk and weight, I found myself reaching for this blade more often than not. There's just something about the Damascus steel that exudes a sense of quality and craftsmanship. And don't even get me started on how it effortlessly slices through whatever I throw at it. So yeah, overall, I'd say this Damascus knife blade is a pretty solid choice for anyone in the market for a durable, high-quality blade. Just make sure you've got some space in your pocket for it, because it's not exactly a lightweight. 🔗Damascus Folding Knife with Leather Sheathhttps://preview.redd.it/afyd3upc3p2d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b2951e9006d6eb24ff3b37e9b774351f5b20d443 Oh, the Damascus Knives 1320BL Prideful Fang Caper, such a mouthful, isn't it? But let's just cut right to it and talk about the knife itself. Now, I'm not exactly what you'd call a knife aficionado, but this one sure did feel different in the hand. The blade, about 6-1/2 inches long and 1-1/2 inches wide, was made of Damascus steel - a beautiful fusion of metals that gives it a unique, patterned look. That's what I noticed first, actually. It's like having a piece of art you can actually use! But it wasn't all looks, that's for sure. The handle, a simple wooden design, was sturdy and well-balanced, even with the leather sheath included. This felt like a tool built to last, just from the feel of it. But let's not forget about those laws, either. The ownership, carry, and use of knives certainly vary from one community to another, so it's essential to know and follow the specific guidelines in place. And if you're planning on letting kids play with it? Well, that's a big no-no. It's not a toy, folks. It's a serious tool designed for serious work. All in all, the Damascus Knives 1320BL Prideful Fang Caper caught my attention right away, not just for its eye-catching design, but also for its build quality. It's not a knife for everyone, and it's certainly not a toy. But if you're looking for a real, sturdy knife that carries its own beauty, then this might be the one for you. 🔗Damascus Dragon Tooth Dagger: A Stylish, Unsharpened Fixed Bladehttps://preview.redd.it/9l6ydbad3p2d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d598550309fc7d11fda3a6a93d2a98d9718ae0ed I've been using the Damascus Dragon Tooth Dagger in my daily life, and I must say, it's a true masterpiece. The ominous feeling of the dagger's blade adds a touch of fantasy to my day-to-day activities. The wide, sharpened Damascus blade with its triangular bevel has proven to be strong and reliable during various tasks. One feature that stands out is the grey/black Pakkawood handle, which has a spiral design for a sure grip. The matching pommel has a softened, rounded appearance, making it comfortable to hold. Additionally, the ornately designed steel and brass file work spacers make this dagger a true beauty. The leather belt sheath with a secure snap is a practical addition, ensuring the safety of the dagger when not in use. However, one downside I've noticed is that the blade tends to be quite heavy, which might be somewhat taxing for certain users. Nonetheless, the Damascus Dragon Tooth Dagger has made a significant impression on me and would be an excellent choice for any dagger enthusiast. 🔗Rosewood Damascus Fixed Blade Daggerhttps://preview.redd.it/9obqsmid3p2d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=deb3c84d5c219b1e653109e9ef2363e8320c5668 In my experience, the Damascus Dagger Rosewood has been a reliable and stylish addition to my adventures. Crafted with high-quality materials, this dagger boasts a sturdy yet elegant design that always draws admiration. The handle, made of rosewood, provides a comfortable grip while showcasing the beauty of the wood. Though it might require some tending in the form of hand washing, the dagger holds up well against wear and tear. What really sets this dagger apart is its impressive quality. The attention to detail in the craftsmanship is evident, making it a standout among other daggers. However, it's not without its minor imperfections – some slight deviations in the blade's edge due to its manual sharpening. Overall, the Damascus Dagger Rosewood has performed well for me, and I would highly recommend it to anyone in the market for a trustworthy, sophisticated, and durable blade. Buyer's GuideA Damascus fixed blade is an exquisite and functional knife. The unique pattern of the Damascus steel, along with the traditional design, makes it a popular choice for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts. Investing in a high-quality Damascus fixed blade can be a rewarding experience, provided you consider the following factors.Quality of Steelhttps://preview.redd.it/giolbszd3p2d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d99f2719b223679e1563c0d9ffa72c721f9f9f36 Damascus steel, traditionally created by alternating layers of two different types of iron and steel, showcase a distinct wave-like pattern. A good quality Damascus fixed blade will have tightly packed layers and will be rust-resistant. Blade LengthThe length of the blade should be considered based on its intended use. Longer blades are better for camping and bushcraft, while smaller blades are more suitable for day-to-day tasks.Tang ConfigurationA full-tang knife, where the steel extends through the handle, is a sign of a high-quality Damascus fixed blade. This construction offers better balance, durability, and grip. https://preview.redd.it/iu6l4bie3p2d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d23fd9235d2844d0f305f4330f28e2e639812ed0 Handle MaterialHandle materials vary from wood, bone, to modern polymers. Each has its pros and cons. Wooden handles are typically the most natural-looking and traditional, but they can absorb water and may require maintenance. On the other hand, synthetic handles offer better grip and resistance to water and environmental factors.Blade Shape and StyleConsider the intended use of the knife. Different shapes (cloak, dagger, spear, etc. ) cater to various tasks. A simple sheepsfoot or clip point may be suitable for general use, while a more specialized design may be needed for specific tasks.When shopping for a Damascus fixed blade, it is essential to buy from a reputable dealer, understand the warranty, and consider after-sales service. Proper maintenance, including oiling and storing the knife in a dry place, will ensure its longevity. Where to Buyhttps://preview.redd.it/mrtaljxe3p2d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0446f11a54402d44dc7c1af0238de07b51128c34 While Damascus fixed blades can be found in many outdoor supply stores, it is essential to do your research. Look for knives made by reputable manufacturers who specialize in this type of steel. Online marketplaces, artisan knife makers, and specialized knife shops are all potential sources. A Damascus fixed blade knife is an investment that can serve as a functional piece of art, perfect for various outdoor activities. By considering the factors outlined above, you will be able to make an informed decision and enjoy your new knife for years to come. FAQWhat is a Damascus Fixed Blade?A Damascus fixed blade is a type of knife with a unique, wavy pattern in its blade. The blade is made by layering different types of steel, folding and forging it together multiple times. This creates the distinct pattern that is highly prized by collectors and users alike. https://preview.redd.it/2m3q3e8f3p2d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6cff74af124978955f69de296546ad92fac5f2c3 What is the history of Damascus steel?Damascus steel has a long and storied history dating back over a thousand years. It is believed to have originated in Damascus, Syria, hence the name. Damascus steel was highly sought after by swordmakers and warriors for its superior strength and sharpness. The production process of Damascus steel was lost for centuries, but was rediscovered in the 20th century.What is the difference between Damascus and stainless steel?The main difference between Damascus and stainless steel is the way they are made. Stainless steel is created by combining various alloys, which results in a uniform and consistent appearance. Damascus steel is made by carefully layering and folding different types of steel multiple times. This creates a unique pattern, making each Damascus blade unique.Which Damascus fixed blade is best for me?Choosing the best Damascus fixed blade depends on your intended use. Some Damascus fixed blades are designed for heavy-duty tasks, while others are better suited for lighter use. Consider factors such as blade length, thickness, and the overall design of the knife. It's also important to consider your budget, as Damascus fixed blades can range in price depending on their quality and size.How should I care for my Damascus fixed blade?
What are the benefits of using a Damascus fixed blade?Damascus fixed blades offer several benefits over other types of knives. They are incredibly strong and sharp, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks. The unique pattern of the blade also makes them highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts. Additionally, each Damascus fixed blade is unique, making it a great choice for those looking for a one-of-a-kind knife.Are there any downsides to using a Damascus fixed blade?One potential downside to using a Damascus fixed blade is the risk of corrosion. Damascus steel is more susceptible to rust and corrosion than other types of steel, so it's important to clean and maintain your blade properly. Additionally, Damascus fixed blades can be more expensive than other types of knives, due to the unique production process and the rare materials used.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.05.26 05:02 SnooHobbies3550 My first job
At the age of 17, I secured my first job with a labor supply company named WJ Group. They did not clearly define my responsibilities and simply assigned tasks to me as they arose. The initial task for my team was to clean an area of approximately 5,000 square meters cluttered with construction waste from a newly constructed apartment building.
During my first Arbor Day at WJ Group, my team was involved in digging holes for planting trees in a 200-hectare dryland area. It was fascinating because some holes were easy to shovel out in just a minute due to the sandy soil underneath. In contrast, some holes were very difficult to dig, taking minutes or hours because of the hard soil and stones underneath. Our boss gave each of us a cigarette called "God of the Fight" after finishing a difficult hole.
Once, my team accepted a task to plant apple trees on a 65-hectare farm. This task included digging holes, planting apple trees, and irrigating the trees. Additionally, we built a channel to bring water from a pond 5 km away from the farm and used sandbags to control the flow for irrigation.
I typically focused on sweeping the grounds, mopping floors and stairs, and cleaning windows, offices, washrooms, and communal shower rooms. Sometimes, I needed to unload coal from a truck or transfer furniture. Once, they assigned me to a team responsible for constructing a kang bed-stove, and I used plastic buckets to deliver sand and cement. Another time, they assigned me to harvest fruit such as grapes, watermelons, and apples.
Throughout my time at WJ Group, I performed various tasks, including digging holes for utility poles and trees, cleaning workplaces, purchasing food for cooking for 40 people, answering and transferring phone calls, and preparing for meetings.
submitted by SnooHobbies3550 to u/SnooHobbies3550 [link] [comments]
During my first Arbor Day at WJ Group, my team was involved in digging holes for planting trees in a 200-hectare dryland area. It was fascinating because some holes were easy to shovel out in just a minute due to the sandy soil underneath. In contrast, some holes were very difficult to dig, taking minutes or hours because of the hard soil and stones underneath. Our boss gave each of us a cigarette called "God of the Fight" after finishing a difficult hole.
Once, my team accepted a task to plant apple trees on a 65-hectare farm. This task included digging holes, planting apple trees, and irrigating the trees. Additionally, we built a channel to bring water from a pond 5 km away from the farm and used sandbags to control the flow for irrigation.
I typically focused on sweeping the grounds, mopping floors and stairs, and cleaning windows, offices, washrooms, and communal shower rooms. Sometimes, I needed to unload coal from a truck or transfer furniture. Once, they assigned me to a team responsible for constructing a kang bed-stove, and I used plastic buckets to deliver sand and cement. Another time, they assigned me to harvest fruit such as grapes, watermelons, and apples.
Throughout my time at WJ Group, I performed various tasks, including digging holes for utility poles and trees, cleaning workplaces, purchasing food for cooking for 40 people, answering and transferring phone calls, and preparing for meetings.
2024.05.26 04:00 _Triple_ [STORE] 900+ KNIVES/GLOVES/SKINS, 100.000$+ INVENTORY. BFK Lore, Gloves Amphibious, Skeleton Fade, Bowie Emerald, BFK Auto, Gloves MF, Talon Doppler, Gloves POW, Bayo Tiger, Gut Sapphire, Stiletto MF, M9 Ultra, Ursus Doppler, Flip Doppler, M9 Stained, Nomad CW, Paracord CW, AK-47 X-Ray & A Lot More
Everything in my inventory is up for trade. The most valuable items are listed here, the rest you can find in My Inventory
Feel free to Add Me or even better send a Trade Offer. Open for any suggestions: upgrades, downgrades / knives, gloves, skins / stickers, patterns, floats.
All Buyouts are listed in cash value.
KNIVES
★ Butterfly Knife Lore (Factory New), B/O: $7194.77
★ Butterfly Knife Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2025.74
⎯★ M9 Bayonet Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $557.87
★ M9 Bayonet Stained (Well-Worn), B/O: $529.41
★ M9 Bayonet Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $465.39
⎯★ Talon Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $1295.27
★ Bayonet Tiger Tooth (Minimal Wear), B/O: $746.28
★ Karambit Bright Water (Field-Tested), B/O: $688.15
⎯★ Flip Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $547.93
★ Flip Knife Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $476.69
★ Flip Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $278.18
★ Flip Knife Black Laminate (Well-Worn), B/O: $258.83
★ Flip Knife Urban Masked (Field-Tested), B/O: $181.64
⎯★ Stiletto Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $686.04
★ Stiletto Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $665.41
★ Stiletto Knife, B/O: $601.39
★ Stiletto Knife Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $418.25
★ Stiletto Knife Night Stripe (Field-Tested), B/O: $227.80
★ Stiletto Knife Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $194.96
★ Stiletto Knife Safari Mesh (Field-Tested), B/O: $192.79
⎯★ Nomad Knife Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $518.11
★ Nomad Knife Scorched (Field-Tested), B/O: $169.78
★ Nomad Knife Forest DDPAT (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $166.88
★ StatTrak™ Nomad Knife Blue Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $335.79
⎯★ Skeleton Knife Stained (Well-Worn), B/O: $442.05
★ Skeleton Knife Urban Masked (Minimal Wear), B/O: $426.24
★ Skeleton Knife Boreal Forest (Field-Tested), B/O: $314.03
★ StatTrak™ Skeleton Knife Fade (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2361.28
★ StatTrak™ Skeleton Knife Urban Masked (Field-Tested), B/O: $376.53
⎯★ Ursus Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $557.12
★ Ursus Knife, B/O: $471.42
★ Ursus Knife Blue Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $212.37
★ Ursus Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $187.66
★ Ursus Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $178.18
★ Ursus Knife Ultraviolet (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $155.13
★ Ursus Knife Boreal Forest (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $124.26
⎯★ Huntsman Knife Black Laminate (Minimal Wear), B/O: $204.83
★ Huntsman Knife Black Laminate (Field-Tested), B/O: $184.50
★ StatTrak™ Huntsman Knife Lore (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $224.11
⎯★ Bowie Knife Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $2142.02
★ Bowie Knife, B/O: $230.44
★ Bowie Knife Damascus Steel (Factory New), B/O: $209.20
★ Bowie Knife Ultraviolet (Minimal Wear), B/O: $180.51
★ Bowie Knife Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $131.03
⎯★ Falchion Knife Night (Field-Tested), B/O: $132.54
★ Falchion Knife Urban Masked (Well-Worn), B/O: $112.81
★ Falchion Knife Scorched (Field-Tested), B/O: $108.81
★ Falchion Knife Forest DDPAT (Field-Tested), B/O: $107.82
★ Falchion Knife Safari Mesh (Field-Tested), B/O: $107.46
★ StatTrak™ Falchion Knife Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $143.08
⎯★ Paracord Knife Crimson Web (Minimal Wear), B/O: $486.48
★ Paracord Knife Blue Steel (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $163.12
⎯★ Survival Knife Blue Steel (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $138.26
★ Survival Knife Night Stripe (Field-Tested), B/O: $131.03
⎯★ Gut Knife Sapphire (Minimal Wear), B/O: $1127.79
★ Gut Knife Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $286.17
★ Gut Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $246.55
★ Gut Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $240.77
★ Gut Knife, B/O: $210.49
★ Gut Knife Lore (Field-Tested), B/O: $194.22
★ Gut Knife Case Hardened (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $151.51
★ Gut Knife Blue Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $124.94
★ Gut Knife Rust Coat (Well-Worn), B/O: $118.99
★ Gut Knife Boreal Forest (Minimal Wear), B/O: $109.80
★ StatTrak™ Gut Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $237.96
⎯★ Shadow Daggers Gamma Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $264.92
★ Shadow Daggers Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $253.03
★ Shadow Daggers Tiger Tooth (Factory New), B/O: $237.22
★ Shadow Daggers Crimson Web (Field-Tested), B/O: $153.40
★ Shadow Daggers Autotronic (Minimal Wear), B/O: $144.42
★ Shadow Daggers Blue Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $105.20
★ StatTrak™ Shadow Daggers Damascus Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $150.46
⎯★ Navaja Knife Fade (Factory New), B/O: $365.99
★ Navaja Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $228.93
★ Navaja Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $227.43
★ Navaja Knife Slaughter (Factory New), B/O: $209.06
★ Navaja Knife, B/O: $203.16
★ Navaja Knife Case Hardened (Well-Worn), B/O: $132.57
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Factory New), B/O: $121.69
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $109.95
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $100.41
★ StatTrak™ Navaja Knife Fade (Factory New), B/O: $369.01
★ StatTrak™ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $109.95
GLOVES
★ Sport Gloves Amphibious (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2394.67
★ Sport Gloves Omega (Well-Worn), B/O: $572.33
★ Sport Gloves Bronze Morph (Minimal Wear), B/O: $338.88
★ Sport Gloves Big Game (Field-Tested), B/O: $323.66
⎯★ Specialist Gloves Marble Fade (Minimal Wear), B/O: $1652.07
★ Specialist Gloves Tiger Strike (Field-Tested), B/O: $599.14
★ Specialist Gloves Crimson Web (Well-Worn), B/O: $231.57
★ Specialist Gloves Buckshot (Minimal Wear), B/O: $126.21
⎯★ Moto Gloves POW! (Minimal Wear), B/O: $996.99
★ Moto Gloves POW! (Field-Tested), B/O: $383.31
★ Moto Gloves POW! (Well-Worn), B/O: $276.00
★ Moto Gloves Turtle (Field-Tested), B/O: $180.28
⎯★ Hand Wraps CAUTION! (Minimal Wear), B/O: $502.29
★ Hand Wraps Giraffe (Minimal Wear), B/O: $180.73
★ Hand Wraps CAUTION! (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $178.32
⎯★ Driver Gloves Queen Jaguar (Minimal Wear), B/O: $181.01
★ Driver Gloves Rezan the Red (Field-Tested), B/O: $101.66
⎯★ Broken Fang Gloves Jade (Field-Tested), B/O: $127.88
★ Broken Fang Gloves Needle Point (Minimal Wear), B/O: $124.55
⎯★ Bloodhound Gloves Guerrilla (Minimal Wear), B/O: $127.94
★ Hydra Gloves Case Hardened (Field-Tested), B/O: $102.55
WEAPONS
AK-47 X-Ray (Well-Worn), B/O: $478.95
AUG Hot Rod (Factory New), B/O: $425.83
StatTrak™ M4A1-S Hyper Beast (Factory New), B/O: $413.95
M4A4 Daybreak (Factory New), B/O: $309.51
StatTrak™ AK-47 Aquamarine Revenge (Factory New), B/O: $305.43
AK-47 Case Hardened (Well-Worn), B/O: $196.38
StatTrak™ M4A4 Temukau (Minimal Wear), B/O: $174.64
P90 Run and Hide (Field-Tested), B/O: $167.03
AWP Asiimov (Field-Tested), B/O: $153.33
Souvenir SSG 08 Death Strike (Minimal Wear), B/O: $140.00
M4A1-S Printstream (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $124.70
StatTrak™ M4A1-S Golden Coil (Field-Tested), B/O: $117.48
AWP Asiimov (Well-Worn), B/O: $115.97
StatTrak™ Desert Eagle Printstream (Minimal Wear), B/O: $112.96
StatTrak™ AK-47 Asiimov (Minimal Wear), B/O: $110.85
Souvenir M4A1-S Master Piece (Well-Worn), B/O: $102.42
AK-47 Bloodsport (Minimal Wear), B/O: $100.53
Trade Offer Link - Steam Profile Link - My Inventory
Some items on the list may no longer be available or are still locked, visit My Inventory for more details.
Send a Trade Offer for fastest response. I consider all offers.
Add me for discuss if there is a serious offer that needs to be discussed.
2024.05.26 02:40 laurie_loo_who My adventure so far!
Hi team! Just thought it might be helpful to share my experience!
I have really bad osteoarthritis in my hips—- think hip replacement (scheduled for end of July) at 45, bad. My doctor strongly encouraged me to try weight loss— they say every 10 pound loss takes 40 pounds of pressure from your joints. But I have Kaiser, and not in California— they haven’t embraced GLP1s for weight loss. So she put me on phentermine. I hated it. But I lost weight on it, though only a little— 223 pounds to 214 pounds. I’m 5’ 3” for context. The side effects were brutal. I blushed dark pink constantly, was always hot, and sweated a lot. I felt rotten.
My hips kept getting worse, and I decided to try Zepbound, started on 12/30/2023. Was on 2.5 for 1 month, than 5 mg, then was ready to go up to 7.5, but of course couldn’t get my hands on it— and with Kaiser, I have to use a Kaiser-affiliated pharmacy with the coupon, but not a Kaiser pharmacy— and there’s just aren’t that many options. My weight loss was completely stalled out on 5, and I just couldn’t justify the cost of getting 5 AGAIN. And then 5 was impossible to find anyway.
So after careful consideration and really reading up on this board, I decided to try Emerge and Hallendale. Oh my gosh, 7.5 was the dose I needed!
All that to say: * Emerge / Hallendale is working for me. * Ordering and delivery are so easy. * I’m so grateful compounding exists. * Frankly, the companies peddling and advertising and continuing new Rxs of GLP1s when supply is so insufficient are criminal. Not to mention charging soooooo much money in the US. * I’m happy with my loss, though it’s slow. * Has it radically helped my hips? Probably not. Maybe a little. Still need a hip replacement. * I’ve seen other benefits though, like all the skin tags on my neck are mostly gone— skin tags can be an early sign of insulin resistance, I’ve read. * Side effects have been totally manageable. Electrolytes in the morning, fiber in the evening, lots of water, and not going TOO long without eating something are key for me.
Good luck on your journeys!
submitted by laurie_loo_who to tirzepatidecompound [link] [comments]
I have really bad osteoarthritis in my hips—- think hip replacement (scheduled for end of July) at 45, bad. My doctor strongly encouraged me to try weight loss— they say every 10 pound loss takes 40 pounds of pressure from your joints. But I have Kaiser, and not in California— they haven’t embraced GLP1s for weight loss. So she put me on phentermine. I hated it. But I lost weight on it, though only a little— 223 pounds to 214 pounds. I’m 5’ 3” for context. The side effects were brutal. I blushed dark pink constantly, was always hot, and sweated a lot. I felt rotten.
My hips kept getting worse, and I decided to try Zepbound, started on 12/30/2023. Was on 2.5 for 1 month, than 5 mg, then was ready to go up to 7.5, but of course couldn’t get my hands on it— and with Kaiser, I have to use a Kaiser-affiliated pharmacy with the coupon, but not a Kaiser pharmacy— and there’s just aren’t that many options. My weight loss was completely stalled out on 5, and I just couldn’t justify the cost of getting 5 AGAIN. And then 5 was impossible to find anyway.
So after careful consideration and really reading up on this board, I decided to try Emerge and Hallendale. Oh my gosh, 7.5 was the dose I needed!
All that to say: * Emerge / Hallendale is working for me. * Ordering and delivery are so easy. * I’m so grateful compounding exists. * Frankly, the companies peddling and advertising and continuing new Rxs of GLP1s when supply is so insufficient are criminal. Not to mention charging soooooo much money in the US. * I’m happy with my loss, though it’s slow. * Has it radically helped my hips? Probably not. Maybe a little. Still need a hip replacement. * I’ve seen other benefits though, like all the skin tags on my neck are mostly gone— skin tags can be an early sign of insulin resistance, I’ve read. * Side effects have been totally manageable. Electrolytes in the morning, fiber in the evening, lots of water, and not going TOO long without eating something are key for me.
Good luck on your journeys!
- Started 12/30/2024, at 214 pounds.
- Got to 205 via 2.5 and 5.
- 5th dose of 7.5 yesterday, and down to 196.6
- Total weight loss on tirzepatide: 17.4 pounds
- So close-ish to a pound a week, average (.83 pounds a week)
2024.05.26 02:30 cochran223 Backwashing old pool
Hello, first things first I don't know very much about pools. Bought a house and it had one. Here's some info
Inground 25000ish gallon 1980 install Concrete with the fiberglass coating over it Hasn't been used in 7ish years Sand filter, new sand.
Found paperwork in the house of the pool company the people used before had them come out and am not very impressed with their service technician or office personel on setting appointment up.
Had the service tech come out, new gaskets new sand put shock in the pool put some other stuff in there said the water looked good for as long as it hasn't been used. but when we pulled the cover off we found the top step of the pool was no good there was a water leak so I'm unable to use the skimmer at the moment until I find somebody to repair the top step of the pool so I can raise the level up to be halfway up the skimmer.
My pool vacuum comes tomorrow so I haven't vacuumed the pool yet but we have been running the main drain through the filter. Initially waited 24 hours did the back wash procedure, wash rinse, wash rinse. They put a gauge on the sand filter so it starts at 15 psi and after a couple hours of running it goes up to 23/24 PSI.
I've noticed the return gets very weak stream after a couple of hours, so I decided to wash rinse, wash rinse again what's the worst that can happen I thought I'm just wasting pool chemical which I'm not sure they really should have put in to begin with yet because the step.
So I guess my main question is here I feel like all the crap is just getting sucked into the main drain going into the filter and then it's causing the PSI to raise up so high because it needs wash rinse wash rinse again and because of all the stuff in there it's making the main return stream very weak. Is this the proper thing doing the backwash so much because I'm only running it half filter basically because I'm unable to use the skimmer.
Pardon my ignorance on pools and I really don't want to ask the people I had come out I don't think I'm going to have them ever come back so I'm in the process of finding somebody new.
Thanks!
submitted by cochran223 to pools [link] [comments]
Inground 25000ish gallon 1980 install Concrete with the fiberglass coating over it Hasn't been used in 7ish years Sand filter, new sand.
Found paperwork in the house of the pool company the people used before had them come out and am not very impressed with their service technician or office personel on setting appointment up.
Had the service tech come out, new gaskets new sand put shock in the pool put some other stuff in there said the water looked good for as long as it hasn't been used. but when we pulled the cover off we found the top step of the pool was no good there was a water leak so I'm unable to use the skimmer at the moment until I find somebody to repair the top step of the pool so I can raise the level up to be halfway up the skimmer.
My pool vacuum comes tomorrow so I haven't vacuumed the pool yet but we have been running the main drain through the filter. Initially waited 24 hours did the back wash procedure, wash rinse, wash rinse. They put a gauge on the sand filter so it starts at 15 psi and after a couple hours of running it goes up to 23/24 PSI.
I've noticed the return gets very weak stream after a couple of hours, so I decided to wash rinse, wash rinse again what's the worst that can happen I thought I'm just wasting pool chemical which I'm not sure they really should have put in to begin with yet because the step.
So I guess my main question is here I feel like all the crap is just getting sucked into the main drain going into the filter and then it's causing the PSI to raise up so high because it needs wash rinse wash rinse again and because of all the stuff in there it's making the main return stream very weak. Is this the proper thing doing the backwash so much because I'm only running it half filter basically because I'm unable to use the skimmer.
Pardon my ignorance on pools and I really don't want to ask the people I had come out I don't think I'm going to have them ever come back so I'm in the process of finding somebody new.
Thanks!
2024.05.26 02:13 TheOneTrueAnimeGod Sionia Chapter 16
Sionia
Chapter 16
Map First Previous
Placing my rifle on the stonewall, I thought back to my first battle with the hordes of goblins attacking the high elves. Then for some reason, I remembered a novel by Louis L'Amour and one of the few rare non westerns called the Walking Drum. It was about a boy who became a man as he traveled across medieval Europe and on toward India where he valued knowledge and physical abilities above all. I vividly remembered chapters of the battle against the Rus ally the Pechenegs on the estuary of the Bug River on the Black Sea in southwestern Ukraine. Turning, I was looking for Lars as I was frantically searching for him.
“Lars, have some men make some caltrops.” I called out when I spotted Lars about ten feet away further down the wall.
“What are those?” Lars replied clearly confused as to my request.
“You're kidding me! Rrraah! You sharpen short sticks on both ends no bigger than your finger. You then tie them together so that no matter how you set it down it always points one of the sticks upward. We need lots of them! The monsters are barefoot and the caltrops will pierce their feet. They can not rush us in waves and we can funnel them to where we want them in a kill zone for the archers.” I explained with frustration.
“I know exactly what Lord Wyatt wants and can show how to make them.” Called out Razor as he stepped forward with a genuine cat style smile.
“Good, gather many small branches and sticks the size of your pointing finger.” I ordered as men began running to collect wood.
Luke began splitting the firewood into strips when he heard the order. Taking bundles of wheat stalks from the wheat field near by, Razor took three to four straws and with deft paws tied two sticks together making a pile. He then tied two of these together and lastly tied another set to those where it became a six pointed caltrop. The finished product looked like a large versions of a kids game of jacks but much sharper and dangerous.
The minutes past as even the girls in the florse stall were hard at work making caltrops. The efficiency was amazing to see as one group cut the sticks, another sharpened them, another tied the first and second pair and finally the last group finished the process. The finished caltrops were then put into one of three empty food crates.
I sought out Lars and Zack to decide where the best location for archers to pick off the monsters would be. After quick discussions with Nick, and Mi who were expert bowmen, it was decided directly before the extended short wall going out about seventy yards. Beyond that, a sure shot was not guaranteed.
About an hour later, Ivor came riding hard to alert that the monsters were less than two millos away. At this, we began spreading the caltrops at about one hundred yards in two arcs to funnel the monsters where we wanted them. I had Nick place a tall branch in the ground at what I thought was two hundred yards and another was set at the range the archers would start shooting. When that was done, we took the newest made caltrops and placed them from about five to fifty feet in front of both the short wall and in an arc around the enclosure. I had Freya keep the girls making the caltrops where they would toss them over the wall on the far side to limit the monsters going around the outpost.
“It will be alright.” I spoke softly to Freya as her face shown heavy concern and some fear.
“I am fine Ryan. I am worried that I have not done enough to ensure victory. That is what is required of Valors and Valkyries. Do what is necessary and anything needed to ensure victory.” Freya replied but her eyes did not match her words.
“Good enough. When the battle begins, keep everyone inside. Prima, keep her safe.” I stated as my heart ached for their safety.
“Of course. Should it become desperate, know you can call on us to join the fight and turn the tide.” Prima said brimming with confidence.
“Yes, we can fight. I know you want us to defend the others here. But Ryan, call us if you need us.” Freya stated almost like an order where her expression changed to a regal one.
“I am counting on you two.” I said and started to reach for Freya but turned and ran outside at the sound from the lookout.
“They are here!” Shouted Brent a dwarf from the Blue Mountains and one of Zack's adventurers standing on a high point on the outpost enclosure.
Brent jumping off the high outpost wall using his shield, rolled and came up running to his place next to the opening of the short wall. All the men began getting into positions and reading themselves for battle. Looking around inside the outpost as I walked to the main entrance, I saw Luke hard at work making arrowheads. Luke had melted down one of my extra shields that was badly bent up and sat up his anvil and blacksmithing tools next to the enclosure's simple forge pit. Luke had made four crude wooden molds which he soaked in water before coating them with some sand to help keep the wood from burning when pouring the hot metal. He was making roughly four arrowheads every five minutes or so which Dagmar one of Zack's people was fitting to arrows made by two of the Asgardian girls without fletching. Lukas my footman was sharpening the arrowheads with what looked like a sharpening whetstone. If those arrows were needed, the fletching would not matter when shooting at point blank range and the fight would be a desperate life or death struggle at that point.
I ordered the two gates closed as I exited the outpost and took my position on the short wall. Looking through the scope of the rifle, I adjusted its focus. Checking the settings, I smiled noting it was already set for two hundred yards. I pulled out a box of 30-06 ammo and the extra magazine which held twenty rounds while the mag in the rifle only had the standard five round clip. I slid the shield off my shoulder and the satchel and set them against the wall. I simply needed more flexibility and comfort to shoot the rifle accurately.
The Monsters were quickly moving forward and some beginning to scream out as they caught sight of our group. Time it seemed to me was slowing down where even my heartbeat was loudly pounding in my ears slowly and every breath was like a loud roar. I focused on the ogre with a massive battle axe as he approached looking imposingly scary. When the ogre pushed over the branch marking two hundred yards, I fired.
“Damn! Missed!” I exclaimed my frustration.
I adjusted the scope's top knob setting one notch to the right and the side knob two notches toward me as I saw the bullet path to the left and short. Taking aim, I fired again.
“Yeah!” Shouted all around me as the ogre staggered then fell sideways crushing a goblin.
“Two for the price of one!” I shouted as I was ecstatic with the shot I made.
I began firing at the edge of the goblin ranks picking them off and driving them more toward the center. Finally, the caltrops began doing their job as goblins began screaming where they sat down clutching their feet. They began pulling out the caltrops from their feet and tossing those behind them which caused more goblins to scream out in pain as they stepped on them.
Reloading my mags, I watched the battle unfold and I could not believe things were going exactly to the plan which worried me. When both mags were reloaded, I looked through the scope looking for the war orcs. I then stopped and blinked as I spotted a hooded black cloaked man with a staff who was directing the monsters.
“Lars, I believe they are being commanded by a Mardor slaver.” I yelled out what I had seen.
“Makes sense, Lord Wyatt. Monsters are captured, bred and raised by the Empire's slaver's guild.” Lars said and spat on the ground his distaste.
“Now it makes sense.” I replied as realization of the report of massive numbers of monsters and people from Mardor could be possible when those numbers seemed impossible from a natural population.
“Here comes the first wave of globlins!” Shouted one of the soldiers up on the outpost wall.
I switched out my rife for the sig as it was better hitting targets less than one hundred yards away. I kept firing until the slide locked. Ejecting the clip and inserting fully loaded second clip, I fired again until it was empty. Holstering the sig, I reached down and took out the shotgun.
“Empire florse archers coming out of the ditch to the north and northwest!” Called Nick from above on the outpost wall and pointing north up the road and off to my left where I could not see them.
I continued to fire the shotgun until it was empty as the goblin dead piled up. The plan was when the goblins reach the short wall, those with swords and lances would rush out and attack in a melee one on one style of combat. I reached down and pulled out two boxes of twelve gauge shotgun shells that would give me fifty total shots. I flipped the shotgun over and began loading the shotgun with the first shell chambered until I had thirteen shots ready to go. Looked up, I was shocked as a goblin was less than ten feet away with a metal tipped spear.
“Aw, damn! Son of a Beach!” I cursed as I took a step back and fired blindly.
My reaction was a bit too late as the goblin thrust the spear over the wall and caught me in the upper arm where the chain mail was loose. I felt the tip drag over my joint and into my armpit. My left arm was stinging and numb and I could no longer grip the shotgun with my left hand. However, I used the slide handle as a crutch on the wall and fired. I would push the handle forward to eject the spent shell then I would throw my left hand forward to rack a new round in the breech. When the gun was empty, I grabbed two shelled and chambered them one handed and fired. This went one for several minutes as I would load just two shells and fire. How long this went on? I do not know as time in the middle of battle is distorted.
I heard men screaming further down the wall where I ducked down and decided to fully reload the shotgun as my hand was getting a bit of feeling back. I then loaded up one of the sig clips as I saw all of our men rushing forward to take on the goblins melee style. When I holster the sig and looking down the wall, I saw the wheat field on fire and it was spreading fast with the smoke washing over the outpost. I began to choke and was coughing hard with my nose becoming a runny mess. Taking out the water canteen, I soaked a towel that I had thrown in the satchel the day I chased the two thieves and wrapped it around my face and neck.
I raised up and began firing at any goblin I could pick off without endangering any on the front line. When I saw my guards began to push the goblins back a good fifteen feet from the wall, I switch back to my rifle. Looking through the scope, I saw one of the war orcs about fifty yards away lumbering toward the outpost. I immediately shot him four times where he finally fell in a heap. Looking for another, I noticed the ogre was back up as he was moving forward dragging his battle axe. I shot him two more times in the head where he finally fell dead. Scanning for the other two orcs, I saw the slaver and shot him twice as he staggered with my first shot where the orc next to him was holding him upright. The second shot dropped him. Changing the mag to the five shot one, I shot the that orc three times and he fell dead. The salamander was running loose and heading roughly toward the outpost but it like the goblins stepped on the caltrops. I emptied the rifle and reloaded the 20 round mag as fast as I could with the last box containing twenty cartridges. I then shot the salamander four more times where it finally stopped moving and I was sure it was dead!
Cheers began to ring out as my guards had slain the hobgoblins. There were only about twenty or so of regular goblins left that were wounded because their feet had been skewered several times and they could no longer walk. Looking through my scope now that the wheat field fire had moved on further south, I scanned for the last orc as I wanted to take him out so my people would not get injured or killed by the vile beast. I finally saw him with four Empire florse archers standing by the only area with trees aside from the few trees mostly near the outpost latrine ditch that was called Jakes here on Sionia.
Moving further down toward the end of the wall, I set up and took aim as they were about two hundred fifty to three hundred yards out. I adjusted the scope for three hundred and used the reticle dots in the scope to adjust for actual distance and windage. Taking aim, I shot the first florse archer, then the second as I improved my aim with each passing shot. After the third florse archer was shot standing tall on the florse sturups trying to see where they were being attacked from, the forth laid low galloping off and down into a ditch where I could not see him anymore. Focusing back on the orc, I shot him around ten times before he dropped as his body armor was decent and hitting him were he was vulnerable was not easy.
“Ivor, Ivor! I need you” I called out as walked back to my original position on the short wall.
The outpost door swung open where Ivor came running up.
“A florse archer has escaped. Catch him. If he surrenders, bring him to me unharmed. Otherwise, make sure he does not make it home alive if you can not capture him.” I ordered with urgency.
“As you command, Lord Wyatt.” Said Ivor where began running to get his florse.
“I will go too.” Mi said as he ran past me to join Ivor with her brown tail wagging briskly.
“Your Atlantian weapons are amazing! The tales I had heard do not do you justice.” Praised Zack as he walked up and joined me.
“Yeah. Well, it is what it is.” I replied as I turned looking out over the battlefield.
The view was my guards with the Zack's melee fighters finishing off the last of the goblins while making sure none were playing dead.
I put all my clips, empty boxes and the shotgun in my satchel with only my right arm as my left was throbbing and it really hurt to grasp things. When I saw Gus and Lukas at the entrance to the outpost, I waved them over.
“I want all these picked up and brought to me. Get Jace or anyone else to help. There is more down at the end of the wall. Be sure to check both sides of the wall!” I ordered to have my brass and empty shells picked up.
I leaned against the wall holding my left shoulder sighing in relief as the realization of the battle was finally sinking in. Looking down at my left arm, I noticed for the first time blood dripping off my fingers.
“Well damn, that does not look good!” I stated as I felt lite headed and parched at the same time.
“Old Maude! You are needed! Lord Wyatt has been seriously wounded!” Screamed out Gus as loud as he could.
Freya came rushing out the outpost to my side and was frantically trying to undo the leather straps to my chain mail. Zack had to take over after he stilled her hands as Freya was shaking too much to actually undo the straps.
Old Maude came shuffling up with one of the apprentice doctors as Zack pulled the chain mail over my head as it was faster than undoing all of the straps. Pouring some brandy, called umber spirytus here on Sionia, over my wound which burned like hell's fire. Old Maude and the apprentice doctor named Johannas inspected my wound which was more of a scrap and short cut that had already looked bruised and had turned yellow to pale blue green.
“You will need a stitch or two” Stated old Maude looking at Johannas.
“I concur. You can handle it and I will see to the others.” Johannas stated and trotted down the short wall and out onto the battlefield.
“Lars, who was hurt?” I asked while old Maude was getting the needle and thread ready.
“I am sorry Lord Wyatt, the young driver Matt was killed by an arrow over the wall as he was putting out a fire in the wheat straw next to the florse stall. The blacksmith Luke was also killed by an arrow to the neck. Moe and Roland were badly hurt by hobgoblins but I do not think they will die from their wounds.” Lars reported with a sad expression with a salute and chest bump that was half hearted.
“I see. We will need to bury our dead. Find a good place near a tree. Make sure there is a marker for their graves stating their name with the words “Loyal Servant of House of Wyatt”. I will open the box with digging tools here in just a bit.” I stated my order that ended with a grunting grimace as old Maude began stitching my wound.
“I am deeply sorry, Lord Wyatt. I should have stayed close to you.” Apologized Razor who was looking on concerned.
“It is alright. I saw your bravery in battle as you were ripping through the goblin ranks. Your actions definitely saved many lives including my own.” I said with gratitude.
“You are just as reckless as ever. When will you ever learn to allow your people to fight for you?” Admonished Freya as she held my right hand with worry in her eyes.
“I can not let my people die needlessly when I can do something about it. I value life especially my own people. Listen carefully. I will do what is necessary to keep my people safe. Once I am married and have children, then I will focus on keeping them safe first followed by my own personal safety. Is that not the right way Freya?” I stated with my reasonable question.
“Yes, I suppose so. I worry for you!” Freya answered then gave me a quick kiss on my cheek.
“Lars and Zack, have all the enemy dead pilled in the ditch down wind where we will burn them. Can not have them attracting wyverns. Gus, have Big Jake and the cooks make a hearty meal as we are going no where until our wounded can safely travel.” I stated as old Maude applied some of the high elf salve.
I got up and went to my cart where I unlocked the six foot long crate that contained the digging tools. I handed them out to the guards who went to a small tree about fifty yards southeast of the outpost that sat along a field boundary. When the graves were finished with Luke and Matt burred, I called everyone to the grave site except the cook Kanade and her helper Yuki as they would look after the food now cooking.
“Everyone gather around. I will speak for those we lost this day. Let no one ever say anything derogatory about our dead or suffer extreme punishment. Luke Smith and Matt were loyal servants of House Wyatt. As such, I honor them. I offer this prayer for our departed, The Lord is my Shepard; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Even when I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff - they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Amen. Now, dust we are from and dust we must return. Into the hand of God may they rest in peace.” I spoke with my head bowed. When I spoke the last the last word, I grabbed some dirt pitching half on each grave.
“That was beautiful and thoughtful.” Said Freya as she took my right arm as I began leading everyone back to the outpost.
“Everyone deserves proper respect especially at the time of death.” I stated as I reached around and hugged Freya closer to me.
About two hours later when the enemy bodies had been thrown into the ditch, I was about to retrieve my gas can to burn the enemy dead. What stopped me and caught my eye was Arnold, one of my house guards, holding a red slime.
“Those are dangerous are they not?” I asked Arnold with concern.
“They can be Lord Wyatt if you squeeze them. Otherwise, not really.” Arnold answered with a shake of his head.
“Well, take it down to the enemy dead and squeeze it good over them. I want those bodies burned completely!” I ordered as I retrieved the lighter.
At the ditch, Arnold had squeezed the slime until it no longer produced a gel like fluid. Stepping forward to light the bonfire, I sniffed the tale tale recognition of diesel fuel. Setting back on my heals, I thought about this curiosity. Thinking hard, I realized the slime made a version of napalm that is in reality a mixture of diesel and liquid form of natural rubber. The diesel part of napalm was done how by the slime? Remembering a TV show about a company making bio-diesel from algae. I concluded that this red slime produces the same effect internally from bio material similar to algae. The slime then stores the diesel until it releases it or it is squeezed out as a mixture of slime natural fluid and the diesel it produced. If this is true, I could theoretically make kerosene which is nothing more than high octane unleaded gasoline. All I would need is a way to thermo crack the diesel without it blowing up in my face.
Shaking myself back to what need to be done, I lit the bodies and the bonfire started slowly before it was a raging inferno. Walking back to the outpost, I resolved in figuring out a way to make a cracking tower to make gas. The engineering for this endeavor would be difficult but if solved could cause an industrial revolution of the like this world may not be ready for.
A little while later as full darkness covered the land and it looked like the evening meal was about ready, I heard a shout from one of the guards up on the wall.
“Riders approaching.” Called out the guard behind me.
A few minutes later, Lars ordered torches lit and the gate to the florse area opened. Ivor and Mi had returned with the florse archer slung over his florse with three arrows sicking out of him. One was in his right shoulder, another went through his left thigh with the tip broken off and the last was dead center in his left butt cheek.
“Why did you not pull out the arrows?” I asked as they cut the rope that tied the archer to the florse.
“We did not want to risk him bleeding out.” Remarked Ivor with a short laugh.
“You shot him in the arse on purpose didn't you.” I accused with a short quick smirk.
“Me? No, Lord Wyatt. I would never do such a thing. Mi there did it.” Ivor said with admused accusation and laughed fully as he could not contain himself while pointing toward Mi.
“Of course, I shot him in the butt! He was mumbling how his master would skin us alive. I wanted him to shut up and it worked!” Mi said with a giggled where her floppy ears raised up a bit as she swiped her long tongue across her wet black nose with tail wagging happily.
“Take the arrows out of him and see to his wounds so he does not die. We will take him with us to the capital where I am sure the king's men will question him well.” I stated and I could not help but shake my head and laugh a bit at the ridiculous amusing scene.
“I refuse. One of the apprentice doctors will have do it.” Stated old Maude as she flashed a bit of anger at the captive when people looked toward her to help the Mardor archer.
“As you will, but see that someone gets it done.” I said and returned to my spot before the fire where I was seated next to Freya holding Pamba who was definitely very subdued and quiet.
The evening was short with few speaking in hushed tones as people ate the evening meal that was in all honesty decent but not great compared to previous meals. No sooner had everyone finished eating, they quickly sought out their beds for no one was in the mood for any horseplay or music that had been common place. Like the rest, I too sought my own rest after speaking with Lars and Zack about the watch as I did not want anyone on duty for more than two hours this night.
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Chapter 16
Map First Previous
Placing my rifle on the stonewall, I thought back to my first battle with the hordes of goblins attacking the high elves. Then for some reason, I remembered a novel by Louis L'Amour and one of the few rare non westerns called the Walking Drum. It was about a boy who became a man as he traveled across medieval Europe and on toward India where he valued knowledge and physical abilities above all. I vividly remembered chapters of the battle against the Rus ally the Pechenegs on the estuary of the Bug River on the Black Sea in southwestern Ukraine. Turning, I was looking for Lars as I was frantically searching for him.
“Lars, have some men make some caltrops.” I called out when I spotted Lars about ten feet away further down the wall.
“What are those?” Lars replied clearly confused as to my request.
“You're kidding me! Rrraah! You sharpen short sticks on both ends no bigger than your finger. You then tie them together so that no matter how you set it down it always points one of the sticks upward. We need lots of them! The monsters are barefoot and the caltrops will pierce their feet. They can not rush us in waves and we can funnel them to where we want them in a kill zone for the archers.” I explained with frustration.
“I know exactly what Lord Wyatt wants and can show how to make them.” Called out Razor as he stepped forward with a genuine cat style smile.
“Good, gather many small branches and sticks the size of your pointing finger.” I ordered as men began running to collect wood.
Luke began splitting the firewood into strips when he heard the order. Taking bundles of wheat stalks from the wheat field near by, Razor took three to four straws and with deft paws tied two sticks together making a pile. He then tied two of these together and lastly tied another set to those where it became a six pointed caltrop. The finished product looked like a large versions of a kids game of jacks but much sharper and dangerous.
The minutes past as even the girls in the florse stall were hard at work making caltrops. The efficiency was amazing to see as one group cut the sticks, another sharpened them, another tied the first and second pair and finally the last group finished the process. The finished caltrops were then put into one of three empty food crates.
I sought out Lars and Zack to decide where the best location for archers to pick off the monsters would be. After quick discussions with Nick, and Mi who were expert bowmen, it was decided directly before the extended short wall going out about seventy yards. Beyond that, a sure shot was not guaranteed.
About an hour later, Ivor came riding hard to alert that the monsters were less than two millos away. At this, we began spreading the caltrops at about one hundred yards in two arcs to funnel the monsters where we wanted them. I had Nick place a tall branch in the ground at what I thought was two hundred yards and another was set at the range the archers would start shooting. When that was done, we took the newest made caltrops and placed them from about five to fifty feet in front of both the short wall and in an arc around the enclosure. I had Freya keep the girls making the caltrops where they would toss them over the wall on the far side to limit the monsters going around the outpost.
“It will be alright.” I spoke softly to Freya as her face shown heavy concern and some fear.
“I am fine Ryan. I am worried that I have not done enough to ensure victory. That is what is required of Valors and Valkyries. Do what is necessary and anything needed to ensure victory.” Freya replied but her eyes did not match her words.
“Good enough. When the battle begins, keep everyone inside. Prima, keep her safe.” I stated as my heart ached for their safety.
“Of course. Should it become desperate, know you can call on us to join the fight and turn the tide.” Prima said brimming with confidence.
“Yes, we can fight. I know you want us to defend the others here. But Ryan, call us if you need us.” Freya stated almost like an order where her expression changed to a regal one.
“I am counting on you two.” I said and started to reach for Freya but turned and ran outside at the sound from the lookout.
“They are here!” Shouted Brent a dwarf from the Blue Mountains and one of Zack's adventurers standing on a high point on the outpost enclosure.
Brent jumping off the high outpost wall using his shield, rolled and came up running to his place next to the opening of the short wall. All the men began getting into positions and reading themselves for battle. Looking around inside the outpost as I walked to the main entrance, I saw Luke hard at work making arrowheads. Luke had melted down one of my extra shields that was badly bent up and sat up his anvil and blacksmithing tools next to the enclosure's simple forge pit. Luke had made four crude wooden molds which he soaked in water before coating them with some sand to help keep the wood from burning when pouring the hot metal. He was making roughly four arrowheads every five minutes or so which Dagmar one of Zack's people was fitting to arrows made by two of the Asgardian girls without fletching. Lukas my footman was sharpening the arrowheads with what looked like a sharpening whetstone. If those arrows were needed, the fletching would not matter when shooting at point blank range and the fight would be a desperate life or death struggle at that point.
I ordered the two gates closed as I exited the outpost and took my position on the short wall. Looking through the scope of the rifle, I adjusted its focus. Checking the settings, I smiled noting it was already set for two hundred yards. I pulled out a box of 30-06 ammo and the extra magazine which held twenty rounds while the mag in the rifle only had the standard five round clip. I slid the shield off my shoulder and the satchel and set them against the wall. I simply needed more flexibility and comfort to shoot the rifle accurately.
The Monsters were quickly moving forward and some beginning to scream out as they caught sight of our group. Time it seemed to me was slowing down where even my heartbeat was loudly pounding in my ears slowly and every breath was like a loud roar. I focused on the ogre with a massive battle axe as he approached looking imposingly scary. When the ogre pushed over the branch marking two hundred yards, I fired.
“Damn! Missed!” I exclaimed my frustration.
I adjusted the scope's top knob setting one notch to the right and the side knob two notches toward me as I saw the bullet path to the left and short. Taking aim, I fired again.
“Yeah!” Shouted all around me as the ogre staggered then fell sideways crushing a goblin.
“Two for the price of one!” I shouted as I was ecstatic with the shot I made.
I began firing at the edge of the goblin ranks picking them off and driving them more toward the center. Finally, the caltrops began doing their job as goblins began screaming where they sat down clutching their feet. They began pulling out the caltrops from their feet and tossing those behind them which caused more goblins to scream out in pain as they stepped on them.
Reloading my mags, I watched the battle unfold and I could not believe things were going exactly to the plan which worried me. When both mags were reloaded, I looked through the scope looking for the war orcs. I then stopped and blinked as I spotted a hooded black cloaked man with a staff who was directing the monsters.
“Lars, I believe they are being commanded by a Mardor slaver.” I yelled out what I had seen.
“Makes sense, Lord Wyatt. Monsters are captured, bred and raised by the Empire's slaver's guild.” Lars said and spat on the ground his distaste.
“Now it makes sense.” I replied as realization of the report of massive numbers of monsters and people from Mardor could be possible when those numbers seemed impossible from a natural population.
“Here comes the first wave of globlins!” Shouted one of the soldiers up on the outpost wall.
I switched out my rife for the sig as it was better hitting targets less than one hundred yards away. I kept firing until the slide locked. Ejecting the clip and inserting fully loaded second clip, I fired again until it was empty. Holstering the sig, I reached down and took out the shotgun.
“Empire florse archers coming out of the ditch to the north and northwest!” Called Nick from above on the outpost wall and pointing north up the road and off to my left where I could not see them.
I continued to fire the shotgun until it was empty as the goblin dead piled up. The plan was when the goblins reach the short wall, those with swords and lances would rush out and attack in a melee one on one style of combat. I reached down and pulled out two boxes of twelve gauge shotgun shells that would give me fifty total shots. I flipped the shotgun over and began loading the shotgun with the first shell chambered until I had thirteen shots ready to go. Looked up, I was shocked as a goblin was less than ten feet away with a metal tipped spear.
“Aw, damn! Son of a Beach!” I cursed as I took a step back and fired blindly.
My reaction was a bit too late as the goblin thrust the spear over the wall and caught me in the upper arm where the chain mail was loose. I felt the tip drag over my joint and into my armpit. My left arm was stinging and numb and I could no longer grip the shotgun with my left hand. However, I used the slide handle as a crutch on the wall and fired. I would push the handle forward to eject the spent shell then I would throw my left hand forward to rack a new round in the breech. When the gun was empty, I grabbed two shelled and chambered them one handed and fired. This went one for several minutes as I would load just two shells and fire. How long this went on? I do not know as time in the middle of battle is distorted.
I heard men screaming further down the wall where I ducked down and decided to fully reload the shotgun as my hand was getting a bit of feeling back. I then loaded up one of the sig clips as I saw all of our men rushing forward to take on the goblins melee style. When I holster the sig and looking down the wall, I saw the wheat field on fire and it was spreading fast with the smoke washing over the outpost. I began to choke and was coughing hard with my nose becoming a runny mess. Taking out the water canteen, I soaked a towel that I had thrown in the satchel the day I chased the two thieves and wrapped it around my face and neck.
I raised up and began firing at any goblin I could pick off without endangering any on the front line. When I saw my guards began to push the goblins back a good fifteen feet from the wall, I switch back to my rifle. Looking through the scope, I saw one of the war orcs about fifty yards away lumbering toward the outpost. I immediately shot him four times where he finally fell in a heap. Looking for another, I noticed the ogre was back up as he was moving forward dragging his battle axe. I shot him two more times in the head where he finally fell dead. Scanning for the other two orcs, I saw the slaver and shot him twice as he staggered with my first shot where the orc next to him was holding him upright. The second shot dropped him. Changing the mag to the five shot one, I shot the that orc three times and he fell dead. The salamander was running loose and heading roughly toward the outpost but it like the goblins stepped on the caltrops. I emptied the rifle and reloaded the 20 round mag as fast as I could with the last box containing twenty cartridges. I then shot the salamander four more times where it finally stopped moving and I was sure it was dead!
Cheers began to ring out as my guards had slain the hobgoblins. There were only about twenty or so of regular goblins left that were wounded because their feet had been skewered several times and they could no longer walk. Looking through my scope now that the wheat field fire had moved on further south, I scanned for the last orc as I wanted to take him out so my people would not get injured or killed by the vile beast. I finally saw him with four Empire florse archers standing by the only area with trees aside from the few trees mostly near the outpost latrine ditch that was called Jakes here on Sionia.
Moving further down toward the end of the wall, I set up and took aim as they were about two hundred fifty to three hundred yards out. I adjusted the scope for three hundred and used the reticle dots in the scope to adjust for actual distance and windage. Taking aim, I shot the first florse archer, then the second as I improved my aim with each passing shot. After the third florse archer was shot standing tall on the florse sturups trying to see where they were being attacked from, the forth laid low galloping off and down into a ditch where I could not see him anymore. Focusing back on the orc, I shot him around ten times before he dropped as his body armor was decent and hitting him were he was vulnerable was not easy.
“Ivor, Ivor! I need you” I called out as walked back to my original position on the short wall.
The outpost door swung open where Ivor came running up.
“A florse archer has escaped. Catch him. If he surrenders, bring him to me unharmed. Otherwise, make sure he does not make it home alive if you can not capture him.” I ordered with urgency.
“As you command, Lord Wyatt.” Said Ivor where began running to get his florse.
“I will go too.” Mi said as he ran past me to join Ivor with her brown tail wagging briskly.
“Your Atlantian weapons are amazing! The tales I had heard do not do you justice.” Praised Zack as he walked up and joined me.
“Yeah. Well, it is what it is.” I replied as I turned looking out over the battlefield.
The view was my guards with the Zack's melee fighters finishing off the last of the goblins while making sure none were playing dead.
I put all my clips, empty boxes and the shotgun in my satchel with only my right arm as my left was throbbing and it really hurt to grasp things. When I saw Gus and Lukas at the entrance to the outpost, I waved them over.
“I want all these picked up and brought to me. Get Jace or anyone else to help. There is more down at the end of the wall. Be sure to check both sides of the wall!” I ordered to have my brass and empty shells picked up.
I leaned against the wall holding my left shoulder sighing in relief as the realization of the battle was finally sinking in. Looking down at my left arm, I noticed for the first time blood dripping off my fingers.
“Well damn, that does not look good!” I stated as I felt lite headed and parched at the same time.
“Old Maude! You are needed! Lord Wyatt has been seriously wounded!” Screamed out Gus as loud as he could.
Freya came rushing out the outpost to my side and was frantically trying to undo the leather straps to my chain mail. Zack had to take over after he stilled her hands as Freya was shaking too much to actually undo the straps.
Old Maude came shuffling up with one of the apprentice doctors as Zack pulled the chain mail over my head as it was faster than undoing all of the straps. Pouring some brandy, called umber spirytus here on Sionia, over my wound which burned like hell's fire. Old Maude and the apprentice doctor named Johannas inspected my wound which was more of a scrap and short cut that had already looked bruised and had turned yellow to pale blue green.
“You will need a stitch or two” Stated old Maude looking at Johannas.
“I concur. You can handle it and I will see to the others.” Johannas stated and trotted down the short wall and out onto the battlefield.
“Lars, who was hurt?” I asked while old Maude was getting the needle and thread ready.
“I am sorry Lord Wyatt, the young driver Matt was killed by an arrow over the wall as he was putting out a fire in the wheat straw next to the florse stall. The blacksmith Luke was also killed by an arrow to the neck. Moe and Roland were badly hurt by hobgoblins but I do not think they will die from their wounds.” Lars reported with a sad expression with a salute and chest bump that was half hearted.
“I see. We will need to bury our dead. Find a good place near a tree. Make sure there is a marker for their graves stating their name with the words “Loyal Servant of House of Wyatt”. I will open the box with digging tools here in just a bit.” I stated my order that ended with a grunting grimace as old Maude began stitching my wound.
“I am deeply sorry, Lord Wyatt. I should have stayed close to you.” Apologized Razor who was looking on concerned.
“It is alright. I saw your bravery in battle as you were ripping through the goblin ranks. Your actions definitely saved many lives including my own.” I said with gratitude.
“You are just as reckless as ever. When will you ever learn to allow your people to fight for you?” Admonished Freya as she held my right hand with worry in her eyes.
“I can not let my people die needlessly when I can do something about it. I value life especially my own people. Listen carefully. I will do what is necessary to keep my people safe. Once I am married and have children, then I will focus on keeping them safe first followed by my own personal safety. Is that not the right way Freya?” I stated with my reasonable question.
“Yes, I suppose so. I worry for you!” Freya answered then gave me a quick kiss on my cheek.
“Lars and Zack, have all the enemy dead pilled in the ditch down wind where we will burn them. Can not have them attracting wyverns. Gus, have Big Jake and the cooks make a hearty meal as we are going no where until our wounded can safely travel.” I stated as old Maude applied some of the high elf salve.
I got up and went to my cart where I unlocked the six foot long crate that contained the digging tools. I handed them out to the guards who went to a small tree about fifty yards southeast of the outpost that sat along a field boundary. When the graves were finished with Luke and Matt burred, I called everyone to the grave site except the cook Kanade and her helper Yuki as they would look after the food now cooking.
“Everyone gather around. I will speak for those we lost this day. Let no one ever say anything derogatory about our dead or suffer extreme punishment. Luke Smith and Matt were loyal servants of House Wyatt. As such, I honor them. I offer this prayer for our departed, The Lord is my Shepard; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Even when I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff - they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Amen. Now, dust we are from and dust we must return. Into the hand of God may they rest in peace.” I spoke with my head bowed. When I spoke the last the last word, I grabbed some dirt pitching half on each grave.
“That was beautiful and thoughtful.” Said Freya as she took my right arm as I began leading everyone back to the outpost.
“Everyone deserves proper respect especially at the time of death.” I stated as I reached around and hugged Freya closer to me.
About two hours later when the enemy bodies had been thrown into the ditch, I was about to retrieve my gas can to burn the enemy dead. What stopped me and caught my eye was Arnold, one of my house guards, holding a red slime.
“Those are dangerous are they not?” I asked Arnold with concern.
“They can be Lord Wyatt if you squeeze them. Otherwise, not really.” Arnold answered with a shake of his head.
“Well, take it down to the enemy dead and squeeze it good over them. I want those bodies burned completely!” I ordered as I retrieved the lighter.
At the ditch, Arnold had squeezed the slime until it no longer produced a gel like fluid. Stepping forward to light the bonfire, I sniffed the tale tale recognition of diesel fuel. Setting back on my heals, I thought about this curiosity. Thinking hard, I realized the slime made a version of napalm that is in reality a mixture of diesel and liquid form of natural rubber. The diesel part of napalm was done how by the slime? Remembering a TV show about a company making bio-diesel from algae. I concluded that this red slime produces the same effect internally from bio material similar to algae. The slime then stores the diesel until it releases it or it is squeezed out as a mixture of slime natural fluid and the diesel it produced. If this is true, I could theoretically make kerosene which is nothing more than high octane unleaded gasoline. All I would need is a way to thermo crack the diesel without it blowing up in my face.
Shaking myself back to what need to be done, I lit the bodies and the bonfire started slowly before it was a raging inferno. Walking back to the outpost, I resolved in figuring out a way to make a cracking tower to make gas. The engineering for this endeavor would be difficult but if solved could cause an industrial revolution of the like this world may not be ready for.
A little while later as full darkness covered the land and it looked like the evening meal was about ready, I heard a shout from one of the guards up on the wall.
“Riders approaching.” Called out the guard behind me.
A few minutes later, Lars ordered torches lit and the gate to the florse area opened. Ivor and Mi had returned with the florse archer slung over his florse with three arrows sicking out of him. One was in his right shoulder, another went through his left thigh with the tip broken off and the last was dead center in his left butt cheek.
“Why did you not pull out the arrows?” I asked as they cut the rope that tied the archer to the florse.
“We did not want to risk him bleeding out.” Remarked Ivor with a short laugh.
“You shot him in the arse on purpose didn't you.” I accused with a short quick smirk.
“Me? No, Lord Wyatt. I would never do such a thing. Mi there did it.” Ivor said with admused accusation and laughed fully as he could not contain himself while pointing toward Mi.
“Of course, I shot him in the butt! He was mumbling how his master would skin us alive. I wanted him to shut up and it worked!” Mi said with a giggled where her floppy ears raised up a bit as she swiped her long tongue across her wet black nose with tail wagging happily.
“Take the arrows out of him and see to his wounds so he does not die. We will take him with us to the capital where I am sure the king's men will question him well.” I stated and I could not help but shake my head and laugh a bit at the ridiculous amusing scene.
“I refuse. One of the apprentice doctors will have do it.” Stated old Maude as she flashed a bit of anger at the captive when people looked toward her to help the Mardor archer.
“As you will, but see that someone gets it done.” I said and returned to my spot before the fire where I was seated next to Freya holding Pamba who was definitely very subdued and quiet.
The evening was short with few speaking in hushed tones as people ate the evening meal that was in all honesty decent but not great compared to previous meals. No sooner had everyone finished eating, they quickly sought out their beds for no one was in the mood for any horseplay or music that had been common place. Like the rest, I too sought my own rest after speaking with Lars and Zack about the watch as I did not want anyone on duty for more than two hours this night.
2024.05.26 01:26 vahedemirjian Why did John F. Kennedy blame Dwight D. Eisenhower for allowing Fidel Castro to take power despite the fact that Fulgencio Batista returned to power in Cuba during Harry S. Truman's last full year in office?
In a speech to a Democratic Party dinner in Cincinnati, Ohio, on October 6, 1960, John F. Kennedy blamed Fidel Castro's rise to power on Dwight D. Eisenhower's support for Fulgencio Batista:
submitted by vahedemirjian to Presidents [link] [comments]
The story of the transformation of Cuba from a friendly ally to a Communist base is - in large measure - the story of a government in Washington which lacked the imagination and compassion to understand the need of the Cuban People - which lacked the leadership and vigor to move forward to meet those needs - and which lacked the foresight and vision to see the inevitable results of its own failures.Although Kennedy denounced Fidel Castro for breaking his promises to give the Cuban people back their democracy and instead installing a communist regime, he also knew that Fulgencio Batista ruled Cuba as a dictator from 1952-1959. However, when blaming Eisenhower for Castro's rise to power, he overlooked the fact Batista's return to power in 1952 occurred during Harry Truman's last year in office and that Batista had refused to accept polls showing him lagging behind other rivals for the planned 1952 Cuban presidential election (Harry Truman's government waited 14 days to grant Batista's new dictatorship diplomatic recognition in contrast to Eisenhower giving the Castro government diplomatic recognition seven days after Batista was ousted), in which case Batista's repressive behavior and not Eisenhower was the primary reason for Castro's rise to power.
And it is a tragic irony that even while these policies of failure here were being pursued our policy-makers received repeated and urgent warnings that International Communism was becoming a moving force behind Mr. Castro and the revolution - that our interest and the interests of freedom were in danger - that a new Soviet satellite was in the making.
Our Ambassador to Cuba in the early days of the revolution - Arthur Gardner -repeatedly warned the administration that Communism was a moving force in the Castro leadership. Testifying recently before a senate committee, he was asked if he had not reported, "That Castro talked and acted like a Communist and should not be supported by the United States." "That was absolutely correct", he replied, and he went on to say: "We all knew.... that Raul Castro was a Communist"; but his warnings, he testified, were ignored, overlooked or circumvented as the menace of Cuban Communism grew.
Our Ambassador to Cuba in the closing years of the revolution - Earl Smith - also warned us that Communism threatened Cuba. He, too, was asked by the same Senate Committee if he had been warning, "That Castro was a Marxist." "Yes, sir," he replied; but his warnings also had been consistently ignored.
And the State Department itself, in a paper issued little more than a month ago - belatedly admitted that "Communist influence existed in the early days of the revolution."
But if we are not to imitate the partisan irresponsibility of others, we must do more than charge that these storm signals were ignored. The real question is: what should we have done? What did we do wrong? How did we permit the Communists to establish this foothold 90 miles away?
The answer is Four-Fold.
First, we refused to help Cuba meet its desperate need for economic progress. In 1953 the average Cuban family had an income of $6.00 a week. Fifteen to twenty per cent of the labor force was chronically unemployed.
Only a third of the homes in the island even had running water, and in the years which preceded the Castro revolution this abysmal standard of living was driven till lower as population expansion our-distanced economic growth.
Only 90 miles away stood the United States - their good neighbor - the richest nation on earth - its radios and newspapers and movies spreading the story of America's material wealth and surplus crops.
But instead of holding out a helping hand of friendship to the desperate people of Cuba, nearly all our aid was in the form of weapons assistance - assistance, which merely strengthened the Batista dictatorship - assistance which completely failed to advance the economic welfare of the Cuban people - assistance, which enabled Castro and the Communists to encourage the growing belief that America was indifferent to Cuban aspirations for a decent life.
This year Mr. Nixon admitted that if we had formulated a program of Latin American economic development five years ago "It might have produced economic progress in Cuba which might have averted the Castro takeover." But what Mr. Nixon neglects to mention is the fact that he was in Cuba 5 years ago himself - gaining experience. He saw the conditions. He talked with the leaders. He knew what our aid program consisted of. But his only conclusion as stated in a Havana press conference, was his statement that he was "very much impressed with the competence and stability" of the Batista dictatorship.
Mr. Nixon could not see then what should have been obvious - and which should have been even more obvious when he made his ill-fated Latin American trip in 1958 - that unless the Cuban people, with our help, made substantial economic progress, trouble was on its way. If this is the kind of experience Mr. Nixon claims entitles him to be President then I would say that the American people cannot afford many more such experiences.
Secondly, in a manner certain to antagonize the Cuban people, we used the influence of our Government to advance the interests of and increase the profits of the private American companies, which dominated the island's economy. At the beginning of 1959 United States companies owned about 40 percent of the Cuban sugar lands - almost all the cattle ranches - 90 percent of the mines and mineral concessions - 80 percent of the utilities - and practically all the oil industry - and supplied two-thirds of Cuba's imports.
Of course our private investment did much to help Cuba. But our action too often have the impression that this country was more interested in taking money from the Cuban people than in helping them build a strong and diversified economy of their own.
The symbol of this shortsighted attitude is now on display in a Havana museum. It is a solid gold telephone presented to Batista by the American-owned Cuban telephone company. It is an expression of gratitude for the excessive telephone rate increase which the Cuban Dictator had granted at the urging of our Government. But visitors to the museum are reminded that America made no expression at all over the other events which occurred on the same day this burdensome rate increase was granted, when forty Cubans lost their lives in an assault on Batista's Palace.
The third, and perhaps most disastrous of our failures, was the decision to give stature and support to one of the most bloody and repressive dictatorships in the long history of Latin American repression. Fulgencio Batista murdered 20,000 Cubans in seven years - a greater proportion of the Cuban population than the proportion of Americans who died in both World Wars, and he turned Democratic Cuba into a complete police state - destroying every individual liberty.
Yet our aid to his regime, and the ineptness of our policies, enabled Batista to invoke the name of the United States in support of his reign of terror.
Administration spokesmen publicly praised Batista - hailed him as a staunch ally and a good friend - at a time when Batista was murdering thousands, destroying the last vestiges of freedom, and stealing hundreds of millions of dollars from the Cuban people, and we failed to press for free elections.
In October 1958 - just a few days before Batista held a rigged and fraudulent election - Secretary of State Dulles was the guest of honor at a reception held by the Batista Embassy in Washington. The reception made only the social pages in Washington; but it made the Havana [sic] - and it was used by Batista to show how America favored his rule.
We stepped up a constant stream of weapons and munitions to Batista - justified in the name of hemispheric defense, when in fact, their only real use was to crush the dictator's opposition, and even when the Cuban Civil War was raging - until March of 1958 - the Administration continued to send arms to Batista which were turned against the rebels - increasing Anti-American feeling and helping to strengthen the influence of the Communists. For example, in Santa Clara, Cuba today there is an exhibit commemorating the devastation of that city by Batista's planes in December of 1958. The star item in that exhibit is a collection of bomb fragments inscribed with a handshake and the words: "Mutual Defense - made in U.S.A."
Even when our government had finally stopped sending arms, our military missions stayed to train Batista's soldiers for the fight against the revolution - refusing to leave until Castro's forces were actually in the street of Havana.
Finally, while we were allowing Batista to place us on the side of Tyranny, we did nothing to persuade people of Cuba and Latin America that we wanted to be on the side of freedom in 1953 we eliminated all regular Spanish language broadcasts of the voice of America. Except for the six months of the Hungarian crisis we did not beam a single continuous program to South America at any time in the critical years between 1953 and 1960. And less than 500 students a year were brought here from all Latin America during these years when our prestige was so sharply dropping.
It is no wonder in short, that during these years of American indifference the Cuban people began to doubt the sincerity of our dedication to democracy. They began to feel that we were more interested in maintaining Batista than we were in maintaining freedom - that we were more interested in protecting our investments that we were in protecting their liberty - that we wanted to lead a Crusade against Communism abroad but not against tyranny at home. Thus it was our own policies - not Castro's - that first began to turn our former good neighbors against us. And Fidel Castro seized on this rising Anti-American feeling, and exploited it, to persuade the Cuban people that America was the enemy of democracy - until the slogan of the resolution became Cuba, Si, Yanqui, No - and the Soviet Imperialism had captured a movement which had originally sprung from the ideals of our own American Revolution.
The great tragedy today is that we are repeating many of the same mistakes throughout Latin America. The same grievances - the same poverty and discontent and distrust of America which Castro rode to power are smoldering in almost every Latin nation.
For we have not only supported a dictatorship in Cuba - we have propped up dictators in Venezuela, Argentina, Columbia, Paraguay and the Dominican Republic. We not only ignored poverty and distress in Cuba - we have failed in the past eight years to relieve poverty and distress throughout the hemisphere. For despite the bleak poverty that grips nearly all of Latin America -\- with an average income of less than $285 a year - with an exploding population that threatens even this meager standard of living. Yet our aid programs have continued to concentrate on wasteful military assistance until we made a sudden recognition of their needs for development capital practically at the point of Mr. Castro's gun.
Today time is running out in Latin America. Our once firm friends are drifting away. Our historic ties are straining under our failure to understand their aspirations. And although the cold war will not be won in Latin America, it could very well be lost there.
If we continue to repeat our past errors -if we continue to care more for the support of regimes that the friendship of people - if we continue to devote greater effort to the support of dictators than to the fight against poverty and hunger - then rising discontent will provide fertile ground for Castro and his Communist friends.
What can a new administration do to reverse these trends? For the present, Cuba is gone. Our policies of neglect and indifference have let it slip behind the iron curtain - and for the present no magic formula will bring it back. I have no basic disagreement with the President's policies of recent months - the time to save Cuba was some time ago
Hopefully events may once again bring us an opportunity to bring our influence strongly to bear on behalf of the cause of freedom in Cuba. But in the meantime we can constantly express our friendship for the Cuban people - our sympathy with their economic problems - our determination that they will again be free. At the same time we must firmly resist further Communist encroachment in this hemisphere - working through a strengthened organization of the American States - and encouraging those liberty-loving Cubans who are leading the resistance to Castro. And we must make it clear to Mr. Castro once and for all that we will defend our Naval Base at Guantanamo under all circumstances - and continue to seek reparation for his seizures of American property.
But whatever we do in Cuba itself, ultimately the road to freedom in Havana runs through Rio and Buenos Aires and Mexico City. For if we are to halt the advance of Latin Communism, we must create a Latin America where freedom can flourish - where long enduring people know, at last, that they are moving toward a better life for themselves and their children - where steady economic advance is framework for stable, democratic government - and where tyranny, isolated and despised, eventually withers on the vine.
These are difficult problems - problems requiring a program which I will soon discuss in a major address on Latin American policy. But only if we extend the hand of American friendship in a common effort to wipe out the poverty and discontent and hopelessness on which Communism feeds - only then will we drive back tyranny until it ultimately perishes in the streets of Havana.
2024.05.26 00:57 TheWhiteAndTheBlue Help! Water leaked from my ceiling and directly into my PC. How do I know what's salvageable?
Troubleshooting Help:
**What is your parts list?PCPartPicker Part List
So during a pretty crazy overnight thunderstorm, water got into my apartment building and dripped from my ceiling and directly into my PC, getting most of the components wet. The main components affected were the GPU, Motherboard, and Power Supply (oh fun). I woke up and found water all over my desk and my computer unresponsive (though the fans were still spinning).
After taking photos/videos of everything and cleaning all the water off of my desk, I unplugged everything from my PC and took it apart, air drying and cleaning the whole system.
After drying thoroughly, I reassembled my PC and even though I figured it was an exercise in futility, I attempted to turn the PC on. Upon hitting the power button, the fans spun up and the RBG lighting for the fans, RAM, and liquid cooler turned on, but nothing would post on screen, just blankness.
Thinking that maybe just the GPU was the issue (it did take the bulk of the moisture), I took the GPU out and connected a monitor directly to the motherboard. Started the PC back up, and same thing happened (fans and lighting, but nothing posting). I do notice a slight crackle sound in my speakers upon starting up.
My questions are:
- What's the best way to test each component of my PC to see which are still good and which are fried? I don't have any spare parts lying around and only have a laptop at the moment to operate off of. My guess is that I'll need to rebuild the PC with new parts and test each one as a part of the old system.
- Which components should I not be too worried about in terms of replacing? My assumption at the moment is the liquid cooler, the fans, the case, and maybe the RAM and hard dives? That would leave me with replacing the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and PSU.
Link to some of the photo/video
Provide any additional details you wish below.
I've filed a claim with my renter's insurance, which they've already denied on the grounds that there's an exception in my policy stating that the water had to originate from inside my apartment (and that this water came from outside). I rightfully think this is bullsh-t and already have a few lawyer relatives looking into fighting the insurance company.
PSA: Don't ever use AppFolio renters insurance.
EDIT: I built this PC during COVID in 2020 (when GPU prices were bonkers all over the place). I'll look to replace parts with equivalent mid-tier upgrades (no 4090's for me sadly).
2024.05.26 00:32 steveyi_80_mech_eng 2019 TFS practice exam question 77. plz explain easily.
 | submitted by steveyi_80_mech_eng to PE_Exam [link] [comments] |
2024.05.26 00:29 Popular-Surprise7212 Applying for internships and struggling to land interviews, resume advice needed
I am expected to graduate with my bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering Technology in May of 2025. I have experience as a solder technician and I am looking for an internship but after almost 50 applications I have had no interviews and usually just get ghosted. I'm applying to electrical engineering and electrical technician intern positions in the metro Detroit area. I can't find many examples of an EET degree resume or what jobs I should be applying to. Would appreciate any feedback.
https://preview.redd.it/og9vdz4lfn2d1.png?width=5100&format=png&auto=webp&s=ae8dfcc4b83a08c8b800a4996246b300e17f559a
submitted by Popular-Surprise7212 to resumes [link] [comments]
https://preview.redd.it/og9vdz4lfn2d1.png?width=5100&format=png&auto=webp&s=ae8dfcc4b83a08c8b800a4996246b300e17f559a
2024.05.26 00:26 Popular-Surprise7212 [Student] Applying for internships and struggling to land interviews, resume advice needed
![[Student] Applying for internships and struggling to land interviews, resume advice needed](https://b.thumbs.redditmedia.com/ReGAzcaHi6WYeu3m-vybcyE7IhVg6vcDRl0bYcYZrnQ.jpg "[Student] Applying for internships and struggling to land interviews, resume advice needed") | I am expected to graduate with my bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering Technology in May of 2025. I have experience as a solder technician and I am looking for an internship but after almost 50 applications I have had no interviews and usually just get ghosted. I'm applying to electrical engineering and electrical technician intern positions in the metro Detroit area. I can't find many examples of an EET degree resume or what jobs I should be applying to. Would appreciate any feedback. submitted by Popular-Surprise7212 to EngineeringResumes [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/tr63p8n2en2d1.png?width=5100&format=png&auto=webp&s=8a45886e1bd6cdf45deae4a9d5e266254258498f |
2024.05.26 00:17 wolfaz May 2024 Wedding Recap: 47K CA wedding near Sequoia National Park for 70 guests
 | Really loved all the budget recaps in this subreddit so here’s mine - submitted by wolfaz to weddingplanning [link] [comments] Our top priority was to create a fun weekend where our friends and family from different parts of our lives get to know us even better and have a great time. We didn’t really care too much about decor or the insta-perfect wedding. So we did a lot of things that would be considered non-traditional. Apologies for the length of the post! Photos at the end. What went well?
What could have gone better?Really there was only one thing that didn’t go well: despite May being typically a dry month in California, it unexpectedly rained, a lot. The weather was 75 and perfect all weekend EXCEPT the exact hours of our outdoor ceremony and reception, during which there were heavy thunderstorms. This caused a bunch of last minute changes and chaos:
There were a few other small things that could have gone better (our hairstylist was running very far behind and cut into our buffer time, my mom gave a somewhat odd speech, etc) but those were pretty minor and didn’t affect our overall experience at all. TimelineFriday - Pre-wedding boat rideWe hadn’t originally planned this, but enough of our wedding party arrived on Thursday night and took Friday off that we ended up renting a party boat and brought a kayak and a paddleboard to spend a few leisurely hours on the lake with some of our close friends before all the wedding festivities began. Friday - Modified Chinese Tea Ceremony @ 6PM I’m Chinese, my partner is white, and our families hadn’t met each other before the wedding. Instead of a typical Chinese American tea ceremony where we knelt and served tea to each set of our parents, we just had our two sets of parents get together and served them tea while we all sat at the table and chatted. This gave them a chance to meet each other before the wedding next day. Friday - Roast-hearsal dinner @ 7PM Instead of a traditional rehearsal dinner, we invited all the guests to join us at a nearby restaurant for a chill night of BBQ buffet and beers. Around 8:30PM, we started the open-mic “roast” portion of the dinner, which the two of us kicked off by roasting each other, then invited our guests to roast us or tell funny stories of one or both of us. We bought 5-6 jars of hot sauces as gifts for those who gave the “spiciest” roasts. So many friends and family told hilarious stories about us that this ended up being one of my favorite events of our wedding. Saturday - Whitewater rafting @ 9AM We brought pastries and cold brew from Whole Foods and invited everyone to optionally come by and get breakfast. Then, anyone who wants to raft would start getting ready for rafting around 9:30AM. 54 out of 68 guests said yes to rafting in their RSVP, but only 42 people rafted. Many people came by for breakfast and hung out even if they didn’t raft. Saturday - Getting ready and “just us” time While our guests went off to do whitewater rafting, I was getting my hair done and DIYing my makeup, my fiance and a bridesmaid did some decor set up at the venue. Then my fiancé and I met up at the Airbnb and did our first look around 1PM. We next spent 3.5 hours in Sequoia National Park (1 hour drive each way, 1 hour at the park, 30 minute buffer time) with just our photographer and videographer to get all the “just us” photos and videos done in front of epic nature backdrops. After we got back around 5PM, we met up with our groomsmen and bridespeople for wedding party photos. Then we went to the venue as guests gradually arrived for the pre-ceremony cocktails. Saturday - The main events @ 6PM (cocktails & apps start at 5PM) We ask our guests to come any time between 5 and 6PM to enjoy some pre-ceremony cocktails and appetizers before our river-side ceremony at 6PM. Sunday - Sequoia hike & hang @ 11AM An optional leisurely hike through the world famous sequoia trees on Sunday. We were going to do the Circle Meadow Loop via Congress and General Sherman Tree Trail but ended up doing a shorter hike with just our families because of the snowy weather (in May!! 😭) and chain control. We did run into a few groups of friends during the hike though so that was great. Budget: $46KThe big things:
PhotosHighly recommend taking all your wedding guests whitewater rafting\"Just us\" photo time at Sequoia National Park AliExpress dress and FB marketplace bouquet worked out great Ceremony location It rained, a lot, during our ceremony Reception/Dinner location Ring holder and vow book Our dog was our ring holder Hand-made ceramic candles we made for our guests as placeholders and favors |
2024.05.26 00:09 _Triple_ [STORE] 900+ KNIVES/GLOVES/SKINS, 100.000$+ INVENTORY. BFK Lore, Gloves Amphibious, Skeleton Fade, Bowie Emerald, BFK Auto, Gloves MF, Talon Doppler, Gloves POW, Bayo Tiger, Gut Sapphire, Stiletto MF, M9 Ultra, Ursus Doppler, Flip Doppler, M9 Stained, Nomad CW, Paracord CW, AK-47 X-Ray & A Lot More
Everything in my inventory is up for trade. The most valuable items are listed here, the rest you can find in My Inventory
Feel free to Add Me or even better send a Trade Offer. Open for any suggestions: upgrades, downgrades / knives, gloves, skins / stickers, patterns, floats.
All Buyouts are listed in cash value.
KNIVES
★ Butterfly Knife Lore (Factory New), B/O: $7194.77
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⎯★ M9 Bayonet Ultraviolet (Field-Tested), B/O: $557.87
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★ StatTrak™ Shadow Daggers Damascus Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $150.46
⎯★ Navaja Knife Fade (Factory New), B/O: $365.99
★ Navaja Knife Doppler (Factory New), B/O: $228.93
★ Navaja Knife Marble Fade (Factory New), B/O: $227.43
★ Navaja Knife Slaughter (Factory New), B/O: $209.06
★ Navaja Knife, B/O: $203.16
★ Navaja Knife Case Hardened (Well-Worn), B/O: $132.57
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Factory New), B/O: $121.69
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Minimal Wear), B/O: $109.95
★ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $100.41
★ StatTrak™ Navaja Knife Fade (Factory New), B/O: $369.01
★ StatTrak™ Navaja Knife Damascus Steel (Field-Tested), B/O: $109.95
GLOVES
★ Sport Gloves Amphibious (Minimal Wear), B/O: $2394.67
★ Sport Gloves Omega (Well-Worn), B/O: $572.33
★ Sport Gloves Bronze Morph (Minimal Wear), B/O: $338.88
★ Sport Gloves Big Game (Field-Tested), B/O: $323.66
⎯★ Specialist Gloves Marble Fade (Minimal Wear), B/O: $1652.07
★ Specialist Gloves Tiger Strike (Field-Tested), B/O: $599.14
★ Specialist Gloves Crimson Web (Well-Worn), B/O: $231.57
★ Specialist Gloves Buckshot (Minimal Wear), B/O: $126.21
⎯★ Moto Gloves POW! (Minimal Wear), B/O: $996.99
★ Moto Gloves POW! (Field-Tested), B/O: $383.31
★ Moto Gloves POW! (Well-Worn), B/O: $276.00
★ Moto Gloves Turtle (Field-Tested), B/O: $180.28
⎯★ Hand Wraps CAUTION! (Minimal Wear), B/O: $502.29
★ Hand Wraps Giraffe (Minimal Wear), B/O: $180.73
★ Hand Wraps CAUTION! (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $178.32
⎯★ Driver Gloves Queen Jaguar (Minimal Wear), B/O: $181.01
★ Driver Gloves Rezan the Red (Field-Tested), B/O: $101.66
⎯★ Broken Fang Gloves Jade (Field-Tested), B/O: $127.88
★ Broken Fang Gloves Needle Point (Minimal Wear), B/O: $124.55
⎯★ Bloodhound Gloves Guerrilla (Minimal Wear), B/O: $127.94
★ Hydra Gloves Case Hardened (Field-Tested), B/O: $102.55
WEAPONS
AK-47 X-Ray (Well-Worn), B/O: $478.95
AUG Hot Rod (Factory New), B/O: $425.83
StatTrak™ M4A1-S Hyper Beast (Factory New), B/O: $413.95
M4A4 Daybreak (Factory New), B/O: $309.51
StatTrak™ AK-47 Aquamarine Revenge (Factory New), B/O: $305.43
AK-47 Case Hardened (Well-Worn), B/O: $196.38
StatTrak™ M4A4 Temukau (Minimal Wear), B/O: $174.64
P90 Run and Hide (Field-Tested), B/O: $167.03
AWP Asiimov (Field-Tested), B/O: $153.33
Souvenir SSG 08 Death Strike (Minimal Wear), B/O: $140.00
M4A1-S Printstream (Battle-Scarred), B/O: $124.70
StatTrak™ M4A1-S Golden Coil (Field-Tested), B/O: $117.48
AWP Asiimov (Well-Worn), B/O: $115.97
StatTrak™ Desert Eagle Printstream (Minimal Wear), B/O: $112.96
StatTrak™ AK-47 Asiimov (Minimal Wear), B/O: $110.85
Souvenir M4A1-S Master Piece (Well-Worn), B/O: $102.42
AK-47 Bloodsport (Minimal Wear), B/O: $100.53
Trade Offer Link - Steam Profile Link - My Inventory
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Send a Trade Offer for fastest response. I consider all offers.
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2024.05.25 23:08 aRedJournal How it started vs how it’s going. Is this too much information for one page of a GUI-heavy management game?
 | This is the “platform” page where you control the tech tree of your base. Additionally you can check inventory and buy stuff at the market, plus there are some general stats such as how much water you’re exporting (the game places imports and exports as high importance). It’s also a sci fi horror theme, so the art is leaning heavy on advanced HUD for a laboratory with corporate sponsors. My concern is information overload. I suspect I’ll have to slowly reveal the interfaces’ features piece by piece, instead having all of its features available at once. submitted by aRedJournal to SoloDevelopment [link] [comments] |
2024.05.25 22:50 50shadesofbay Low-Cost Quality Raw Source?
Hey all!
I’ve been searching for a low-cost yet quality vendor for supplies for months. I happened to stumble into https://ases.in/ recently.
To my eyes— they seem great. The company has been around for 82 years. They seem to not simply be a vendor of materials, but a manufacturer also.
Reviews of their products posted by consumers seem to be starkly honest. There is 0 manipulation at all— meaning sometimes products tend to skew a little more downwards than we’re used to seeing with the constant manipulation tactics by vendors and brands.
Pricing seems to be incredibly fair, although shipping may be the most costly aspect of purchase (as the company is overseas). Products themselves I find to be quite interesting (such as 10x herbal liquid distillates in pure water— no preservatives).
I haven’t gone so far as to request a COA from the company for a product yet, although I do intend to request for 3-5 products of varying type (powder, preservative, distillate, etc).
They even detail appropriate phases to add to formulation, solubility, temperature, etc. They have a selection of laboratory equipment (also for cheap!) encompassing everything from glass to high quality plastic vessels. Finally, their section of laboratory chemicals is VAST, but listed without detail so as to prevent abuse.. and with the correct assumption that if you’re interested in purchasing them you should already have the knowledge for correct usage.
I wanted to share the resource so that others can use them, but also to get a few more experienced eyes on the site.
TIA!
submitted by 50shadesofbay to DIYBeauty [link] [comments]
I’ve been searching for a low-cost yet quality vendor for supplies for months. I happened to stumble into https://ases.in/ recently.
To my eyes— they seem great. The company has been around for 82 years. They seem to not simply be a vendor of materials, but a manufacturer also.
Reviews of their products posted by consumers seem to be starkly honest. There is 0 manipulation at all— meaning sometimes products tend to skew a little more downwards than we’re used to seeing with the constant manipulation tactics by vendors and brands.
Pricing seems to be incredibly fair, although shipping may be the most costly aspect of purchase (as the company is overseas). Products themselves I find to be quite interesting (such as 10x herbal liquid distillates in pure water— no preservatives).
I haven’t gone so far as to request a COA from the company for a product yet, although I do intend to request for 3-5 products of varying type (powder, preservative, distillate, etc).
They even detail appropriate phases to add to formulation, solubility, temperature, etc. They have a selection of laboratory equipment (also for cheap!) encompassing everything from glass to high quality plastic vessels. Finally, their section of laboratory chemicals is VAST, but listed without detail so as to prevent abuse.. and with the correct assumption that if you’re interested in purchasing them you should already have the knowledge for correct usage.
I wanted to share the resource so that others can use them, but also to get a few more experienced eyes on the site.
TIA!
2024.05.25 21:45 RogerThird42 adding water - need chemicals?
Brand new pool owner. Have a maintenance company once per week. I'm just learning about pool maintenance. Water level a little low (don't think a leak). If I add an inch of water so I can assure it’s getting filtered, do I need to add chemicals right away? Or can wait a few days until pool maintenance person comes? Having guests, want to ensure clean balanced water.
submitted by RogerThird42 to pools [link] [comments]
2024.05.25 21:24 SanderSo47 Directors at the Box Office: Robert Zemeckis
 | https://preview.redd.it/6t1fknzlim2d1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=298048bdfc7fc1d9c63051d6f37ad70a86315ba6 submitted by SanderSo47 to boxoffice [link] [comments] Here's a new edition of "Directors at the Box Office", which seeks to explore the directors' trajectory at the box office and analyze their hits and bombs. I already talked about a few, and as I promised, it's Robert Zemeckis' turn. As a child, Zemeckis loved television and was fascinated by his parents' 8 mm film home movie camera. Starting off by filming family events like birthdays and holidays, he gradually began producing narrative films with his friends that incorporated stop-motion work and other special effects. After seeing Bonnie and Clyde with his father, Zemeckis decided that he wanted to go to film school. His parents disapproved of the idea, but he still went to USC, where he meet his colleague Bob Gale. One of his student films caught the attention of Steven Spielberg, who decided to become an executive producer and help him with his career. From a box office perspective, how reliable was he to deliver a box office hit? That's the point of this post. To analyze his career. It should be noted that as he started his career in the 1970s, some of the domestic grosses here will be adjusted by inflation. The table with his highest grossing films, however, will be left in its unadjusted form, as the worldwide grosses are more difficult to adjust.I Wanna Hold Your Hand (1978)"It isn't fatal, but it sure is fun."His directorial debut. It stars Nancy Allen, Bobby Di Cicco, Marc McClure, Susan Kendall Newman, Theresa Saldana, Eddie Deezen, and Wendie Jo Sperber. Its story follows a disparate group of teenagers over the course of one day in New York City as they attempt to gain entry to the Beatles' first live appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964. The reason behind the film's existence was that Steven Spielberg was confident Zemeckis could make a feature length film after watching his student films. So he signed as executive producer, his first credit. But Universal was not thrilled with the concept and handing the production to an unexperienced director. To bankroll it, Spielberg had to promise studio executives that, if Zemeckis was seen to be doing a markedly poor job, he would step in and direct the film himself. Despite the backing of a major studio, the film flopped with just $1.9 million domestically. But it received very positive reviews, so there was interest in giving Zemeckis another chance.
Used Cars (1980)"Like new, great looking, and fully loaded with laughs."His second film. It stars Kurt Russell, Jack Warden, Frank McRae, David L. Lander, Michael McKean, Joe Flaherty, Al Lewis, Dub Taylor, Harry Northup, Dick Miller, and Betty Thomas. The story follows Rudy Russo, a devious salesman, working for affable, but monumentally unsuccessful used-car dealer Luke Fuchs. Luke's principal rival, located directly across the street, is his more prosperous brother, Roy L. Fuchs, who is scheming to take over Luke's lot. Like his previous film, it received good reviews but it was a box office flop. Zemeckis really needed a hit now.
Romancing the Stone (1984)"She's a girl from the big city. He's a reckless soldier of fortune. For a fabulous treasure, they share an adventure no one could imagine... or survive."His third film. It stars Michael Douglas, Kathleen Turner and Danny DeVito. The film follows a romance novelist who must venture beyond her New York City comfort zone to Colombia in order to save her sister from criminals who are holding her for ransom. The film received very positive reviews, with many favorably comparing it to Raiders of the Lost Ark. And after a streak of bad luck, the box office finally rewarded Zemeckis, as the film earned over $100 million worldwide.
Back to the Future (1985)"He was never in time for his classes. He wasn't in time for his dinner. Then one day... he wasn't in his time at all."His fourth film. It stars Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, Crispin Glover, and Thomas F. Wilson. Set in 1985, it follows Marty McFly, a teenager accidentally sent back to 1955 in a time-traveling DeLorean automobile built by his eccentric scientist friend Emmett "Doc" Brown, where he inadvertently prevents his future parents from falling in love – threatening his own existence – and is forced to reconcile them and somehow get back to the future. In 1980, Bob Gale visited his parents and took a look at his father's high school yearbook. He wondered if he and his father would have been friends had they attended school together. He did not think so, but realized he could test his theory if he could travel back to a time when he and his parents were a similar age. He shared the idea with Zemeckis, who recalled his mother's childhood stories were often contradictory. They believed many time-travel films focused on the past being immutable and wanted to show the past being altered and the effect those changes would have on the future. In the first drafts, Doc was a video pirate and the time machine was a stationary object moved around on the back of a truck. Originally, Marty's actions in 1955 had a more significant impact on the future, making 1985 more futuristic and advanced, but every person who read the script took issue with the idea. Another huge aspect is that the drained time machine was written to be powered by Marty driving it into a nuclear explosion, combined with an additional ingredient: Coca-Cola. They gave the second draft to Columbia Pictures president Frank Price, but he considered it way too "tame" compared to the raunchy hits of the 80s. Multiple studios rejected the script, as they felt the concept being unappealing to contemporary rebellious youth as well as the recent box office failure of time travel films. They only had Steven Spielberg's support, but they feared they'd have to rely solely on him to get their scripts greenlit. So Zemeckis temporarily left to make Romancing the Stone, and its box office success allowed him to gain more credibility. Spielberg got involved as executive producer, and set the project at Universal. Price was now working there, but Spielberg ensured that he had zero impact on the production. Michael J. Fox was the first choice to play Marty, as Zemeckis and Gale were impressed by his work in the sitcom Family Ties. But the show's producer Gary David Goldberg did not give Fox the script. With Fox out, Sid Sheinberg preferred Eric Stoltz, who had impressed with his portrayal of Rocky Dennis in an early screening of the drama film Mask. With the filming date approaching, Zemeckis opted for Stoltz. Sheinberg promised that if Stoltz did not work out, they could reshoot the film. At the same time, Christopher Lloyd signed as Doc and Melora Hardin as Jennifer. Filming began on November 26, 1984, and the tight schedule meant that editing occurred concurrently with filming. On December 30, Zemeckis reviewed the existing scenes with his editors, and he believed Stoltz's acting was not working and had already listed several scenes he wanted to reshoot. Zemeckis called in Gale and the producers to show them the footage; they agreed Stoltz was not right for the part. Stoltz was performing the role with an intense and serious tone, not the "screwball" energy they desired. Spielberg finally got Goldberg to let Fox sign, and filming continued without informing Stoltz that he would be replaced. One week after Fox agreed, Stoltz was finally fired, and the crew said they deemed this "good news" despite having to reshoot the film. As a result, Hardin was also fired as the crew felt she was too tall for Fox. On January 15, 1985, Fox started filming his scenes. By that point, the film lost 34 days of filming and the reshoots meant that the budget had to increase by $4 million, which included Soltz getting his full salary despite not finishing the film. This also prompted Universal to mount a PR campaign to mitigate the negative buzz for replacing the lead actor. Fox filmed Family Ties during the day before traveling to the Back to the Future filming location. Often, he would not return home until early the following morning, and on weekends, the schedule was pushed back further as Family Ties was filmed in front of a live audience. Filming wrapped in April, and Zemeckis was pressured to complete editing, especially when Sheinberg decided to move up the date to July 3. The film opened with $11.3 million on its first weekend, ranking #1. It eased an absurd 5% in its second weekend and added $10.5 million. After losing the top spot on its fourth weekend, it returned to #1 on its fifth weekend and it stayed there for 8 weeks. It didn't have a drop higher than 10.2% until its tenth weekend. It simply had incredible legs, and in October, it passed Rambo: First Blood Part II ($149 million) as the year's highest grossing title. It stayed in theaters for almost an entire year, and it closed with an extraordinary $211 million domestically ($214 million through re-releases). Worldwide, the film was also a huge success, earning $381 million ($384 million through re-releases). The film received an incredible response from critics and audiences, quickly earning a place among the greatest sci-fi films ever made. It became one of the most influential and beloved films in history, and massively increased the careers of Zemeckis and Fox. Universal wanted a sequel, but Zemeckis and Gale were not interested.
Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)"It's the story of a man, a woman, and a rabbit in a triangle of trouble."His fifth film. Loosely based on the novel Who Censored Roger Rabbit? by Gary K. Wolf, it stars Bob Hoskins, Christopher Lloyd, Stubby Kaye, Joanna Cassidy, and the voices of Charles Fleischer and Kathleen Turner. Combining live-action and animation, the film is set in an alternate history Hollywood in 1947, where humans and cartoon characters (referred to as "toons") co-exist. Its plot follows Eddie Valiant, a private investigator with a grudge against toons, who must help exonerate Roger Rabbit, a toon framed for murder. Disney bought the film rights in 1981, and Jeffrey Price and Peter S. Seaman were hired to write the script. Zemeckis offered himself to direct, but Disney didn't trust him as the only two films he made by that point were box office duds. By 1985, Amblin Entertainment got involved as producers, and Disney greenlit the project when the film was set at $30 million. They offered the film to Terry Gilliam, but he declined because he felt it was too technically challenging (a decision he said regrets to this day). After the success of Romancing the Stone and Back to the Future, Zemeckis was finally granted the director's chair. With his involvement, Spielberg convinced Warner Bros., Fleischer Studios, Harvey Comics, King Features Syndicate, Felix the Cat Productions, Turner Entertainment, and Universal Pictures/Walter Lantz Productions to "lend" their characters to appear in the film with (in some cases) stipulations on how those characters were portrayed. For this, Donald Duck and Daffy Duck appear as equally talented dueling pianists, while Mickey Mouse and Bugs Bunny also share a scene. Among the characters they were unable to use were Popeye, Tom and Jerry, Little Lulu, Casper, or the Terrytoons characters. For the effects, mime artists, puppeteers, mannequins, and robotic arms were commonly used during filming to help the actors interact with "open air and imaginative cartoon characters." This caused the budget to escalate, while the shooting schedule ran longer than expected. When the budget reached $40 million, Disney CEO Michael Eisner seriously considered shutting down production, but studio chairman Jeffrey Katzenberg talked him out of it. Despite the budget escalating to over $50 million, Disney moved forward on production because they were enthusiastic to work with Spielberg. The film opened with $11 million, which was Disney's biggest debut ever. It had fantastic legs, closing with $154 million domestically and $351 million worldwide, making it the year's second highest grossing film. It received extraordinary reviews for its groundbreaking special effects, winning 4 Oscars for Film Editing, Sound Effects, Visual Effects and a Special Achievement Award. It became one of the most influential films, as no film properly combined animation and live-action as efficient as this film. Zemeckis quickly became a big star. He said he's open to a sequel, even after Hoskins' death in 2014, claiming that there's a "wonderful" script he read. However, he said it was unlikely that Disney would greenlight it, as "the current corporate Disney culture has no interest in Roger, and they certainly don't like Jessica at all."
Back to the Future Part II (1989)"Getting back was only the beginning."His sixth film. The sequel to Back to the Future, it stars Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, Thomas F. Wilson, Elisabeth Shue, and Jeffrey Weissman. It follows Marty McFly and his friend Dr. Emmett "Doc" Brown as they travel from 1985 to 2015 to prevent Marty's son from sabotaging the McFly family's future. When their arch-nemesis Biff Tannen steals Doc's DeLorean time machine and uses it to alter history for his benefit, the duo must return to 1955 to restore the timeline. Zemeckis and Gale did not plan for the original film to get a sequel, the final scene was just a nice send-off that suggested they would have adventures off-screen. But after the huge success, Universal convinced them in a sequel. Zemeckis and Gale would later regret that they ended the first one with Jennifer in the car with Marty and Doc Brown, because it required them to come up with a story that would fit her in, rather than a whole new adventure. With the size of the story, Zemeckis and Gale decided to make two sequels, shot back-to-back to save money. Claudia Wells had to drop out due to a family crisis, so Elisabeth Shue replaced her and re-shot the final scene of the previous film. It was one of ILM's first forays into digital compositing, as well as the VistaGlide motion control camera system, which enabled them to shoot one of its most complex sequences, in which Fox played three separate characters (Marty Sr., Marty Jr., and Marlene), all of whom interacted with each other. Although such scenes were not new, the VistaGlide allowed, for the first time, a completely dynamic scene in which camera movement could finally be incorporated. The technique was also used in scenes where Fox, Thomas F. Wilson, Christopher Lloyd, and Elisabeth Shue's characters encounter and interact with their counterparts. Rather than write George out of the film, Zemeckis used previously filmed footage of Glover from the first film as well as new footage of actor Jeffrey Weissman, who wore prosthetics including a false chin, nose, and cheekbones to resemble Glover. Glover filed a lawsuit against the producers of the film on the grounds that they neither owned his likeness nor had permission to use it. As a result of the suit, there are now clauses in the Screen Actors Guild collective bargaining agreements stating that producers and actors are not allowed to use such methods to reproduce the likeness of other actors. Highly anticipated, the film opened with $27 million on its first weekend, breaking the Thanksgiving record. But while the original film had insane legs, this one wasn't quite strong. It closed with $119 million domestically, a steep 45% drop. It actually increased overseas, which allowed the film to close with $332 million worldwide. The film drew mixed reactions, particularly for its story and darker tone. In subsequent years, its reputation grew, although it was still considered inferior to the original.
Back to the Future Part III (1990)"They've saved the best trip for last... but this time they may have gone too far."His seventh film. The final installment in the Back to the Future trilogy, it stars Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Mary Steenburgen, Thomas F. Wilson, and Lea Thompson. The film continues immediately following Part II; while stranded in 1955, Marty discovers that "Doc, trapped in 1885, was killed by Buford "Mad Dog" Tannen, Biff's great-grandfather. Marty travels to 1885 to rescue Doc and return once again to 1985, but matters are complicated when Doc falls in love with Clara Clayton. While filming the original, Zemeckis talked with Fox over what kind of film he would like to make, and Fox said he wanted to make an Old West film. Zemeckis and Gale were intrigued and decided to have the third film set in the Old West. To save costs, the films were shot back-to-back, and it took nine months to film the two movies. Although the schedule for most of the personnel involved was grueling, the actors found the remote location for Part III relaxing, compared to shooting its predecessor. It released six months after Part II opened, and just 3 days after that film hit VHS. The film opened with $19 million ($23 million for the four-day Memorial weekend), far below the projections. It closed with $88 million domestically and $245 million, marking another drop from the previous films. It received a favorable response, and was considered a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. Despite Universal wanting a fourth film or reboot, Zemeckis and Gale have said they will block all attempts to reboot the franchise.
Death Becomes Her (1992)"In one small bottle... the fountain of youth. The secret of eternal life. The power of an ancient potion. Sometimes it works... sometimes it doesn't."His eighth film. The film stars Meryl Streep, Goldie Hawn, Bruce Willis, and Isabella Rossellini. Its plot follows two women who fight for the affections of the same man and drink a magic potion that promises eternal youth. The film was a technologically complex film to make, and represented a major advancement in the use of computer-generated effects, under the pioneering direction of ILM. It was the first film where computer-generated skin texture was used. Streep admitted that she disliked working on a project that focused so heavily on special effects and vowed never to work on another film with heavy special effects again. The film received mixed reviews; while the effects were praised, the humor was criticized. But with the trio's star power, the film earned $149 million, becoming a box office success. Its reputation grew with time, and it won the Oscar for Best Visual Effects.
Forrest Gump (1994)"The world will never be the same once you've seen it through the eyes of Forrest Gump."His ninth film. Based on the novel by Winston Groom, it stars Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise, Mykelti Williamson, and Sally Field. The film follows the life of Forrest Gump, a man with low IQ, who recounts the early years of his life when he found himself in the middle of key historical events. All he wants now is to be reunited with his childhood sweetheart, Jenny. The novel's success prompted a bidding war, with Warner Bros. winning the film rights. Groom was paid $500,000 and also wrote the first three first drafts of the screenplay, which leaned closer to the events of the novel. After Rain Man told the story of a savant, WB lost interest in the picture, and by 1990 the project was in turnaround. Columbia Pictures rejected the project, but Paramount picked it up just as Eric Roth joined as screenwriter. Ivan Reitman, Penny Marshall and Terry Gilliam passed on the project, while Barry Sonnenfeld was attached to direct, but left to work on Addams Family Values. Afterwards, Zemeckis joined to direct. Once again, Zemeckis had another film with groundbreaking special effects. Using CGI techniques, it was possible to depict Forrest meeting deceased personages and shaking their hands. Hanks was first shot against a blue screen along with reference markers so that he could line up with the archive footage. To record the voices of the historical figures, voice actors were filmed and special effects were used to alter lip-syncing for the new dialogue. Archival footage was used and with the help of such techniques as chroma key, image warping, morphing, and rotoscoping, Hanks was integrated into it. On its opening weekend, the film opened with $24 million. Buoyed by extraordinary word of mouth, the film decreased just 1.3% in its second weekend. By its third weekend, the film already broke the $100 million milestone in the United States. For the first twelve weeks of release, the film was in the top 3 at the US box office, topping the list 5 times, including in its tenth week of release. It spent almost one year in theaters. It eventually closed with a colossal $330 million domestically, making it the highest grossing film of the year in the United States. Even with its American focus, it was also a worldwide phenomenon; it earned $678 million worldwide, becoming the fourth highest grossing film ever. It was also Zemeckis' highest grossing film, as well as Paramount's biggest film. The film received critical acclaim, and has been referred as one of the world's most beloved and iconic films. It received 13 Oscar nominations and won 6: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Visual Effects, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Film Editing. Zemeckis was just unstoppable. There were talks to adapt the novel's sequel, Gump & Co., but the film is stuck in development hell. Roth submitted his draft on September 10, 2001. After 9/11, Roth, Zemeckis, and Hanks decided the story was no longer "relevant."
Contact (1997)"If it's just us, it seems like an awful waste of space."His tenth film. Based on the novel by Carl Sagan, it stars Jodie Foster, Matthew McConaughey, James Woods, Tom Skerritt, William Fichtner, John Hurt, Angela Bassett, Rob Lowe, Jake Busey, and David Morse. It follows Dr. Eleanor "Ellie" Arroway, a SETI scientist who finds evidence of extraterrestrial life and is chosen to make first contact. Sagan and his wife Ann Druyan chose to adapt his own novel. They added the science and religion analogies as a metaphor of philosophical and intellectual interest in searching for the truth of both humanity and alien contact. Zemeckis was offered the director's chair, and while he liked the script, he said the very last page was the reason he decided to turn it down. WB hired George Miller instead, and he cast Jodie Foster to play Ellie. However, Miller spent so much time in pre-production that WB chose to fire him and convinced Zemeckis to finally direct, granting him total artistic control and the right of final cut privilege. The film received a positive response, although some felt that the film prioritized scientific accuracy over storytelling. It earned $171 million worldwide, although that didn't look quite good against its $90 million budget.
What Lies Beneath (2000)"He was the perfect husband until his one mistake followed them home."His 11th film. It stars Harrison Ford, Michelle Pfeiffer, Diana Scarwid, Joe Morton, James Remar and Miranda Otto. The film follows a marriage who moves to the husband's old house, where the wife experiences disturbing supernatural activity. Soon, she discovers a shocking truth about her husband and Madison, his student who is dead. Documentary filmmaker Sarah Kernochan had adapted a personal experience with the paranormal as a script treatment featuring a retirement aged couple dealing with restless but compassionate spirits. DreamWorks commissioned a rewrite from actor-writer Clark Gregg (Agent Coulson). Spielberg decided to give the project to Zemeckis, who managed to film the entire movie while another film of his shut down production (we'll get to that later on). At $100 million, it was the most expensive horror film ever. The film received mixed reviews, particularly for its script. But the star power of Ford and Pfeiffer translated into a great box office run, as the film earned almost $300 million worldwide.
Cast Away (2000)"At the edge of the world, his journey begins."His 12th film. It stars Tom Hanks, Helen Hunt, and Nick Searcy. It follows a FedEx troubleshooter who is stranded on an uninhabited island after his plane crashes in the South Pacific, and the plot focuses on his desperate attempts to survive and return home. Hanks wanted to make a film that would "examine the concept of four years of hopelessness, in which you have none of the requirements for living — food, water, shelter, fire and company." William Broyles was brought to write the film, and Zemeckis soon joined as director and Hanks gaining 50 pounds for the role. The film started filming in January 1999 and was paused two months later, so Hanks could lose the weight and grow his hair and beard to look like he had been living on the island for years. Filming didn't continue until April 2000. During that one-year gap, Zemeckis filmed What Lies Beneath. FedEx provided access to their equipment, but paid no money on product placement. The film was well received, and the reunion of Zemeckis and Hanks provided another box office hit, as the film earned over $400 million worldwide. Hanks was later nominated for Best Actor at the Oscars, losing to Russell Crowe on Gladiator. Zemeckis was on fire.
The Polar Express (2004)"Believe."His 13th film. Based on the children's book by Chris Van Allsburg, it stars Tom Hanks, Daryl Sabara, Nona Gaye, Jimmy Bennett, and Eddie Deezen. Set on Christmas Eve, it tells the story of a young boy who sees a mysterious train bound for the North Pole stop outside his window and is invited aboard by its conductor. He joins other children as they embark on a journey to visit Santa Claus, who is preparing for Christmas. Hanks optioned the book in 1999 after reading the book to his children with the hopes of playing the conductor and Santa Claus. Van Allsburg was skeptical over selling the rights, but sold them after Hanks asked, under the condition that it wouldn't be animated as he feared this would not accurately represent his characters. Rob Reiner was hired to direct, but he was replaced by Zemeckis when the film was delayed. He brought in William Broyles to rewrite the script; their new draft expanded the roles of minor characters such as Hero Girl, Know-it-all, and Lonely Boy. It also added the new character of Hobo. Despite Van Allsburg's original terms with Hanks, Zemeckis felt that a live-action version was unfeasible, claiming that it "would look awful, and it would be impossible – it would cost $1 billion instead of $160 million". Zemeckis felt that such a version would rob the audience of the art style of the book which he felt was "so much a part of the emotion of the story". However, Zemeckis also agreed that a conventional animated version would suit the film poorly. In order to keep his vision, a new process was created by which actors would be filmed with motion capture equipment in a black box stage which would then be animated to make the resulting film. This cost $1 million per minute of footage, and Hanks played 5 characters through this. It was recognized as the first all-digital capture film, and with $170 million, it was the most expensive animated film by that point. The film attracted mixed reactions, as many were conflicted over the character animation. But word of mouth was far stronger; it was a box office success after earning $318 million worldwide through re-releases. But why was it a success if the budget was $170 million? Easy, because it was colossal in DVD and Christmas reruns. To this day, the film is still massively popular during the holiday season.
Beowulf (2007)"Evil breeds pain."His 14th film. Based on the Old English epic poem, it features the voices of Ray Winstone, Anthony Hopkins, Robin Wright Penn, Brendan Gleeson, John Malkovich, Crispin Glover, Alison Lohman, and Angelina Jolie. The film depicts the rise and fall of the warrior Beowulf after he travels to Denmark to kill a monster. Neil Gaiman and Roger Avary wrote a screen adaptation of Beowulf in May 1997. The project was set up at DreamWorks with Avary slated to direct and Zemeckis producing. Avary stated he wanted to make a small-scale, gritty film with a budget of $15–20 million, similar to Jabberwocky or Excalibur. The project was then stuck in development hell. Producer Steve Bing, at the behest of Zemeckis who was wanting to direct the film himself, revived the production by convincing Avary that Zemeckis' vision, supported by the strength of digitally enhanced live action, was worth relinquishing the directorial reins. The film received very positive reviews, who noted it as an improvement over The Polar Express. But the massive $150 million budget made it difficult to be profitable, and the film closed with just $196 million worldwide.
A Christmas Carol (2009)"Season's greedings."His 15th film. Based on Charles Dickens's novel, it stars the voices of Jim Carrey, Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Bob Hoskins, Robin Wright and Cary Elwes. It follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old moneylender who is visited by three Christmas spirits on Christmas Eve. Scrooge embarks on a journey of self-redemption to mend his miserly ways. After making The Polar Express, Zemeckis stated that he "fell in love with digital theater" and tried finding an avenue in order to use the format again. He eventually decided that an adaptation of Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol would be an opportunity to achieve this. He collaborated with Disney on the project, marking their first film since Who Framed Roger Rabbit. The film received mixed reviews for its tone and animation. It earned $325 million worldwide, but the massive costs meant that it was a flop. That's 3 box office duds in a row.
Flight (2012)His 16th film. The film stars Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle, Kelly Reilly, John Goodman, Bruce Greenwood and Melissa Leo. It follows William "Whip" Whitaker Sr., an alcoholic airline pilot who miraculously crash-lands his plane after a mechanical failure, saving nearly everyone on board. Although hailed a hero, an investigation soon begins to cast the captain in a different light.It marked Zemeckis' first R-rated film since Used Cars. It received very positive reviews, and was a much needed box office success for him.
The Walk (2015)"Dream high."His 17th film. The film stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ben Kingsley, Charlotte Le Bon, James Badge Dale, Ben Schwartz, and Steve Valentine, and is based on the story of French high-wire artist Philippe Petit's walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in 1974. Despite good reviews, it was another box office bomb for Zemeckis, and it marked his first film to earn less than $100 million since Used Cars.
Allied (2016)"The enemy is listening."His 18th film. It stars Brad Pitt, Marion Cotillard, Jared Harris, Simon McBurney and Lizzy Caplan. It follows a Canadian intelligence officer and a French Resistance fighter who fall in love while posing as a married couple during a mission in Casablanca in 1942, but the wife is suspected of being a German spy. The film received mixed reviews, and marked another box office dud for Zemeckis.
Welcome to Marwen (2018)"You can't put this hero in a box."His 19th film. The film stars Steve Carell, Leslie Mann, Diane Kruger, Merritt Wever, Janelle Monáe, Eiza González, Gwendoline Christie, Leslie Zemeckis, Siobhan Williams and Neil Jackson. It tells the true story of Mark Hogancamp, a man struggling with PTSD who, after being physically assaulted, creates a fictional village to ease his trauma. The film was poorly received, and it was his worst attended film since his debut in 1978.
The Witches (2020)His 20th film. Based on the novel by Roald Dahl, it stars Anne Hathaway, Octavia Spencer, Stanley Tucci, and Kristin Chenoweth. When an orphan encounters a witch, his grandmother takes him away in order to protect him. But, in their hotel, a group of witches plot to get rid of the children of the world.Due to the pandemic, it was sent to HBO Max and played at select theaters worldwide, so it was a bomb. And a poorly received film again.
Pinocchio (2022)His 21st film. A live-action remake of Disney's 1940 animated film, it stars Tom Hanks, Cynthia Erivo, and Luke Evans with Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Keegan-Michael Key, and Lorraine Bracco in voice roles. The story follows a wooden puppet named Pinocchio, who is brought to life by a blue fairy after being crafted by an old Italian woodcarver named Geppetto.As it's a Disney+ original, there are no box office numbers here. What we have, however, is that it had awful reviews, with some considering it as Zemeckis' worst film. The FutureHis next film is a Forrest Gump reunion. The film is Here, which is written by Eric Roth and stars Tom Hanks and Robin Wright. The story covers the events of a single spot of land and its inhabitants spanning from the past to well into the future. It opens this November.MOVIES (FROM HIGHEST GROSSING TO LEAST GROSSING)
The VerdictHis run through the 80s and 90s was just insane. Banger after banger, and films that could change the landscape of what movies were possible. To this day, these films have remained popular and he earned a place as one of the most bankable names in film business.Starting on the 21st Century, however, you notice how the cracks start to appear. Bankable for a few years, but he hasn't made a profitable film in 12 years, which by itself was his first profitable in 12 years. Some broke even at best, but others were colossal box office failures. And through his recent films, you can tell he has not been able to replicate another beloved film. Zemeckis may still use his 80s/90s run to justify getting more films greenlit, but it's a foregone conclusion that his glory days are long past him. Hope you liked this edition. You can find this and more in the wiki for this section. The next director will be Richard Donner. An influential figure in superhero films, for Superman changed everything. I asked you to choose who else should be in the run and the comment with the most upvotes would be chosen. Well, we'll later talk about... Tony Scott. It was inevitable, as we already covered his brother Ridley. This is the schedule for the following four:
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2024.05.25 20:37 aitasisterbusiness AITA for calling my dad a dick for supporting my sister's business but not mine?
5 years ago, my sister (25 at the time) decided she wanted to open a preschool. My dad was completely on board, helped her pick out a piece of land, bought the land, got her set up with a modular building company, paid for the building, donated supplies, and paid for everything for the first year. Every year his company donates thousands of dollars to her school. They provide backpacks, lunchboxes, and water bottles to each of her students every year, they donate food on special occasions, they fund graduation every year, and they provide teacher gifts for Christmas and ed of the year. She talked about wanting to expand and his company donated a whole ass building and new playground.
I (27f) want to open a salon. I asked my dad to help me open it like he did with my sister's school. He recommended I spend a few more years working then he'll consider it.
I reminded him that he helped my sister when she was 2 years younger than me but he said it's different because she started babysitting at 11, working at a swim school at 13, started working with preschoolers at summer camps by 15, and got a job as a preschool teacher fresh out of high school. He also said she had a good understanding of how the business would work and had great ideas for location and specialization to attract parents.
I told him I do have good ideas but he's just not willing to listen and spend half of what he did on my sister on my business.
He said the only way he'll reconsider is if I get at least an associates in business, get a job in my field and keep it for 3+ years, and save at least half of the start up costs. All of this has to happen within 4 years.
We got into an argument and I called him a dick for supporting my sister and spending tens or hundreds of thousands on her business but either refusing or making me jump through hoops for me to get half of what she got. He says I'm being ungrateful and unrealistic and can't expect something just because my sister has it.
submitted by aitasisterbusiness to AmItheAsshole [link] [comments]
I (27f) want to open a salon. I asked my dad to help me open it like he did with my sister's school. He recommended I spend a few more years working then he'll consider it.
I reminded him that he helped my sister when she was 2 years younger than me but he said it's different because she started babysitting at 11, working at a swim school at 13, started working with preschoolers at summer camps by 15, and got a job as a preschool teacher fresh out of high school. He also said she had a good understanding of how the business would work and had great ideas for location and specialization to attract parents.
I told him I do have good ideas but he's just not willing to listen and spend half of what he did on my sister on my business.
He said the only way he'll reconsider is if I get at least an associates in business, get a job in my field and keep it for 3+ years, and save at least half of the start up costs. All of this has to happen within 4 years.
We got into an argument and I called him a dick for supporting my sister and spending tens or hundreds of thousands on her business but either refusing or making me jump through hoops for me to get half of what she got. He says I'm being ungrateful and unrealistic and can't expect something just because my sister has it.
2024.05.25 20:06 miraridoctorofficial Does Huggies Cause Diaper Rash?
As a parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your baby's delicate skin healthy and free from irritation. Diaper rash is a common concern, causing redness, bumps, and discomfort for many infants. You may have heard rumors that certain diaper brands, like Huggies, are more likely to cause rashes. But is there any truth to these claims? Let's take a closer look at the relationship between Huggies diapers and diaper rash, so you can make an informed choice about what to put on your baby's sensitive bottom.
However, it's important to note that every baby is unique, and some may be more prone to rashes than others. Just like some kids react to certain foods, soaps, or lotions, a small percentage of babies might experience skin sensitivity to specific ingredients or materials in Huggies diapers.
However, it's crucial to take these reports with a grain of salt. Correlation does not equal causation, and just because a baby develops a rash while wearing Huggies doesn't necessarily mean the diapers are to blame. Diaper rash is incredibly common - over half of babies between 4-15 months old experience it at some point\6]). With Huggies being a leading diaper brand, it's not surprising that some of those rashes happen to coincide with Huggies use, without the diapers being the root cause.
Class action lawsuits against diaper companies pop up from time to time, but they don't automatically prove a widespread problem. For a lawsuit to move forward, there simply needs to be a plausible claim, not definitive proof. In fact, a proposed class action suit against Huggies in 2016 was dismissed due to lack of sufficient evidence\2]).
That said, every baby is different, and a small number of little ones may be sensitive to certain components in Huggies diapers. If your baby seems prone to rashes and you suspect their diapers may be to blame, there's no harm in experimenting with a few different brands to see what works best for your child's unique skin.
The most important thing is to practice good overall diaper hygiene - change diapers frequently, clean gently, apply barrier cream, and give lots of diaper-free time to keep that precious baby skin healthy. And don't hesitate to contact your pediatrician or dermatologist if you're concerned about a severe or persistent rash. With some trial and error and TLC, you'll find the perfect diapering solution to keep your sweet pea happy, dry, and rash-free!
submitted by miraridoctorofficial to u/miraridoctorofficial [link] [comments]
What Causes Diaper Rash?
Before we dive into the specifics of Huggies, it's important to understand what causes diaper rash in the first place. Diaper rash is a form of irritant contact dermatitis, which means the skin becomes inflamed due to exposure to certain substances\4]). The most common culprits behind diaper rash include:- Prolonged contact with urine and feces
- Chafing or rubbing from a diaper that's too tight
- Irritation from certain ingredients in diapers, wipes, or creams
- Bacterial or yeast infections
- Introduction of new foods
- Antibiotics or other medications that change stool composition
- Sensitive skin
Do Huggies Diapers Cause Diaper Rash?
Now, let's address the burning question: are Huggies diapers more likely than other brands to cause diaper rash? The short answer is, not necessarily. No reliable scientific evidence shows that Huggies are inherently more irritating to sensitive baby skin.However, it's important to note that every baby is unique, and some may be more prone to rashes than others. Just like some kids react to certain foods, soaps, or lotions, a small percentage of babies might experience skin sensitivity to specific ingredients or materials in Huggies diapers.
Huggies Diaper Ingredients
To understand why some babies might react to Huggies, let's take a look at what's inside their diapers. According to the Huggies website, their diapers are made with the following materials\5]):- Absorbent core with wood pulp and polyacrylate
- Polypropylene and polyethylene fibers for softness and durability
- Polyurethane elastic for stretchy side panels
- Polymer spandex for leg cuffs and waistbands
- Colorants and inks for designs
- Adhesives to hold layers together
Huggies Sensitive Skin Options
For babies with especially delicate skin, Huggies offers several hypoallergenic, fragrance-free options specifically designed to minimize the risk of irritation, such as:- Huggies Special Delivery Diapers: Made with plant-based materials and free of parabens, fragrances, and elemental chlorine bleaching\1]). Dermatologist-tested and clinically proven hypoallergenic.
- Huggies Little Snugglers Diapers: Hypoallergenic and free of lotions, fragrances, parabens, and elemental chlorine bleaching\5]). Features a GentleAbsorb liner and pocketed waistband.
- Huggies Pure & Natural Diapers: Made with organic cotton and other thoughtfully selected materials. Hypoallergenic and free of harsh ingredients.
Anecdotal Reports and Lawsuits
Despite Huggies' commitment to sensitive baby skin, you may have come across anecdotal reports online of babies experiencing severe rashes and even chemical burns after wearing Huggies diapers. Some parents have filed lawsuits against Kimberly-Clark, the parent company of Huggies, claiming that their babies suffered skin reactions after using the brand\2]).However, it's crucial to take these reports with a grain of salt. Correlation does not equal causation, and just because a baby develops a rash while wearing Huggies doesn't necessarily mean the diapers are to blame. Diaper rash is incredibly common - over half of babies between 4-15 months old experience it at some point\6]). With Huggies being a leading diaper brand, it's not surprising that some of those rashes happen to coincide with Huggies use, without the diapers being the root cause.
Class action lawsuits against diaper companies pop up from time to time, but they don't automatically prove a widespread problem. For a lawsuit to move forward, there simply needs to be a plausible claim, not definitive proof. In fact, a proposed class action suit against Huggies in 2016 was dismissed due to lack of sufficient evidence\2]).
Treating and Preventing Diaper Rash
If you do suspect your baby is reacting to their Huggies diapers, the first step is to rule out other potential causes and treat the diaper rash. Some general tips:Keep Baby Clean and Dry
The #1 rule of preventing diaper rash is to minimize contact with moisture and irritants. That means changing wet or soiled diapers as quickly as possible, ideally every 2-3 hours during the day\3]). Gently clean the diaper area with plain water or fragrance-free wipes, and allow the skin to air dry before putting on a fresh diaper.Apply a Barrier Cream
After each change, slather on a thick layer of a zinc oxide or petroleum jelly based diaper cream to soothe the skin and protect against further irritation\3]). Look for creams with the highest percentage of zinc oxide for maximum barrier power.Let Skin Breathe
To promote healing, give your baby as much diaper-free time as possible. Lay down a towel and let that cute tush enjoy some fresh air for a few minutes several times a day\3]). When you do need to put on a diaper, make sure it's not too tight and that you can comfortably slide a finger between the diaper and your baby's belly.Consider Switching Diaper Brands
If you've treated your baby's rash for a few days with no improvement, it might be worth trying a different diaper brand to see if that makes a difference. Every baby's skin is unique, so what works for one may not be the best choice for another. Huggies' sensitive skin line is a great place to start, but you can also explore hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and chlorine-free options from other trusted brands like Pampers Pure, Honest, and Seventh Generation.When to See a Doctor
Most diaper rashes clear up within a few days with at-home care, but it's important to know when to seek medical help. Make an appointment with your baby's pediatrician if you notice\3]):- Blisters, pus-filled bumps, or open sores
- A rash that extends beyond the diaper area
- Fever along with a rash
- A rash that doesn't improve after 2-3 days of home treatment
- Bleeding or oozing skin
- Signs of pain, like excessive crying or trouble sleeping
The Bottom Line on Huggies and Diaper Rash
So, back to our original question: Does Huggies cause diaper rash? The evidence suggests, probably not any more than other popular diaper brands. Huggies offers a range of diapers carefully designed to be gentle on sensitive baby skin, with hypoallergenic, fragrance-free options for the most delicate bottoms.That said, every baby is different, and a small number of little ones may be sensitive to certain components in Huggies diapers. If your baby seems prone to rashes and you suspect their diapers may be to blame, there's no harm in experimenting with a few different brands to see what works best for your child's unique skin.
The most important thing is to practice good overall diaper hygiene - change diapers frequently, clean gently, apply barrier cream, and give lots of diaper-free time to keep that precious baby skin healthy. And don't hesitate to contact your pediatrician or dermatologist if you're concerned about a severe or persistent rash. With some trial and error and TLC, you'll find the perfect diapering solution to keep your sweet pea happy, dry, and rash-free!
Key Takeaways
- Diaper rash is caused by prolonged exposure to moisture, friction, and irritants - not any specific diaper brand.
- Huggies diapers are carefully designed to minimize the risk of skin irritation, with hypoallergenic, fragrance-free options for sensitive skin.
- Every baby's skin is unique, and a small percentage may be sensitive to certain ingredients in Huggies or other brands.
- Anecdotal reports of rashes and lawsuits against Huggies don't definitively prove the diapers are problematic for most babies.
- Frequent diaper changes, gentle cleansing, zinc oxide cream, and diaper-free time are key for treating and preventing diaper rash.
- See your baby's pediatrician if a rash is severe or doesn't improve with at-home care.
References
- Huggies Special Delivery Hypoallergenic Baby Diapers, Fragrance Free, Size 1 (198 Count) https://www.amazon.com/Hypoallergenic-Diapers-Delivery-Fragrance-Sensitive/dp/B09PHZ8B5N
- Huggies Class Action Claims Diapers Contain Skin Irritant That Causes Rash https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/baby-food-class-action-lawsuit-and-settlement-news/huggies-class-action-claims-diapers-contain-skin-irritant-that-causes-rash/
- Diaper rash - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diaper-rash/symptoms-causes/syc-20371636
- Diaper Dermatitis (Diaper Rash) https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/diaper-dermatitis
- Huggies® Little Snugglers Diapers https://www.huggies.com/en-us/diapers/little-snugglers
- Types of Diaper Rash: Causes and Treatments https://www.healthline.com/health/baby/types-of-diaper-rash
2024.05.25 20:02 relishboi Predator's Disease Chapter 32
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Memory transcription subject: Silvon, venlil biologist
Date [Standardized human time]: September 2nd, 2148
[Day 26]
My holopad buzzed. I looked up from the goopy hospital vegetables and popped the device open.
Dr. Silvon,
It’s with great relief to inform you that in the wake of Aaron Clemont’s death, your and Dr. Stat’s travel restrictions have been lifted. The late Nulon and Lew’s funeral will be held on the 4th at 8 am (SHT) in the Morva Falls Cemetary. A shuttle has already been arranged to pick the two of you up tomorrow morning as approved by your doctors.
Yours, Governor Maulo of the Venlil Republic
I sighed, putting the holopad back down, and stared into the mucky purple food congealing in my bowl. I rubbed my forehead with my paw, not even sure how to feel. In all the excitement of the past few days, my parents had been mercifully cast from my mind. I never got the proper chance to come to terms with everything. Tears threatened to spill over as I leaned back into the hospital bed.
“Hey, Silvvy, you okay?” Danny called across the room, a violet smear across his mouth.
“Yeah, just fine,” I lied. I swished the veggies idly as my brain was being pressure-cooked by endless memories of how great things were before the flu. How great things were before I lost them.
“Silvon,” he said a bit more sternly, “what’s wrong? I know what you look like when you’re distressed.”
My ears were pinned to the sides of my head as I doubled forward, the sobs escaping my throat with vitriolic fury. I smashed my paws through the cheap hospital tray, food splattered across the pale white blankets, the chunks like the brain matter painted in the lab hallways. “NOTHING, DANNY!” I roared, my voice shattered into a million pieces never to be reassembled as my whole body shuddered and doubled over.
Danny set aside the tray of food, swinging a cast-clad foot to the floor and stumbling his way toward me on uneven feet. I begged silently, only able to communicate with hasty, illegible tail flicks because the rest of my body was too occupied caving into itself. He put a hand on my shoulder and I flinched hard. “Silvon, please,” he whispered, “You can talk to me.”
“I-” I gasped, then babbled incoherently. I gestured toward the holopad with my filthy, purple-stained hands. The human leaned against my bed for balance as he took the device and opened it to the email. He read it all the way through, then somberly lowered the holopad.
“I’m so sorry, hon,” he murmured. “I’m sorry,” his hazel eyes shimmered. He sat down on the bed next to me, uncaring for the sloppy mess of food, and wrapped his arms tightly around me. I buried my face in his chest, locking him in my own embrace.
He knows how that kind of loss feels. I felt safe in his arms, but bad about hiding my misery. He rubbed a hand up and down my back, whispering secure little promises into my pinned-down ears. “I loved them so much,” I sobbed, “I don’t- I can’t believe they’re gone.”
“I know you did, Silvvy,” he breathed, “Those bastards can’t take any more of your life away.”
“I- I almost lost you, Danny. What am I- how am I supposed to move on?”
He paused a moment. I felt his grip get just a bit tighter. He was so warm. “I don’t know,” he said finally, “but I’ll always be by your side. Every step of the way.”
“Danny-” I cried, “how did- how did you ever get over this?” I asked, pulling my head from his chest to gaze into his dark, teary eyes.
He took a sharp breath, glancing around the room while thinking. “I don’t think I ever did,” he confessed. “I was afraid back on Earth, and I’m afraid now. I guess we’re afraid together.”
“Together,” I mused. The ring on my paw felt so natural now, even though we’ve only been engaged for less than 3 weeks.
“Together,” Danny urged. I put my paws on his cheeks and pressed our lips together.
~~~
Memory transcription subject: Governor Maulo of the Venlil Republic
Date [Standardized human time]: September 2nd, 2148
[Day 26]
The raids yesterday were a rousing success. Several hundred Humanity First members are either dead or locked up. I concluded the email authorizing Leirn to begin supplying our hospitals with the vaccine and hit send. If the Sapient Coalition is gonna try me for crimes against sapience, I’ll at least ensure my species’ survival before I get arrested.
My emerald-eyed assistant strutted into my office. “Governor, I’m happy to report that the infection has been largely contained to the Qalugh Hemisphere. We’ve had a couple of small reports in Taiza and Morva Falls, but quarantine procedures are being properly followed,” Servaen’s tone was chipper.
“Thank stars,” I sighed, prodding my temples with my paws.
His ears fell sensing my stress. “Sir, are you worried about the trial?” he asked.
“How can I not be? Everything I’ve done has been for the good of Skalga. If the damn Federation hadn’t gotten into everyone’s heads, a million people wouldn’t have died,” I slid open the drawer on my desk, withdrawing a bottle of scotch. “You want a drink? You’ve been working hard enough to earn one,” I asked, setting up two glasses.
“Uh, sure?” he answered hesitantly. I laughed, pouring both of us a drink and sliding him his glass.
“If I get impeached, at least I’m going out with a bang,” I grinned. “For Skalga!”
“For Skalga,” he agreed. We clinked our glasses together and drank. He set down the glass, a look of bemusement written on his features. “Stars, this is weak,” he commented.
“It’s human,” I told him, savoring the flavor of the drink. “Practically water, but it takes the edge off a bit.” I slid the bottle back into its drawer and set the glasses aside. I put a paw to my chin, “humans,” I breathed.
“Humans?”
“Humans. Complicated, enigmatic, and our closest allies for over a decade,” I mused. “They’re political leaders who want peace among the stars and terrorists who want to subjugate us. I strive to understand them, but every turn something like this happens that makes me reevaluate where I put my trust. There were hundreds of Humanity First. Hundreds. Right beneath our snouts, they operated. And sure, we’ve stamped out plenty, but who’s to say we’ve gotten all of them? That they aren’t lying in wait for another disaster to capitalize on like the flu? Justifying the Federation’s fear-mongering among the masses, and giving the populace a reason to lash out like Ransu,” I shook my head, sucking in a deep breath and sighing heavily, “Skalga stands with the UN through and through. If infighting is inherently predatory, then we’re all predators.”
“Well said, governor,” Servaen said nodding. “Maybe save that for the trial though. You and Mesu standing against the entire Coalition.”
“Yeah, you’re right. I don’t know how I can smooth talk my way out of this one,” I grimaced at the thought of the kolshian and farsul representatives, still in their prejudiced cahoots, shooting down every possible defense I may have. I clenched my paws in rage. “For Skalga,” I spat.
~~~
Memory transcription subject: Jakiv, arxur scientist
Date [Standardized human time]: September 2nd, 2148
[Day 26]
“How are you doing, Jakiv?”
“Fine.”
“Have you been eating well?”
“Yes.”
“I heard about the breakthrough, when can I expect to see you back at work?”
“Never :)”
“How come?”
“I filed for citizenship on Leirn. You wouldn’t catch me dead on that hellhole we call a home planet.”
“Citizenship? On a prey planet? Have you finally lost it?”
“Long ago, Vilvit.”
“What prompted you to endure the leaf-lickers permanently?”
“A friend did.”
“A friend?”
“Yeah. I met someone. One of those ‘leaf-lickers’. I think you’d like her.”
“Is that so? I find it hard to believe the same man who refused to even speak to his own species is suddenly buddy-buddy with prey.”
“Well believe it, because I’m not coming back. I’ve found something here on Leirn that I’ve desperately been missing. I can’t return to Wriss after everything I’ve been through here. Not ever. Thanks for taking care of me when I needed it, but I don’t need it anymore. I’m all set.”
“Do they really make you that happy?”
“More than I thought possible.”
“Take care of yourself then, Jakiv.”
“You as well.”
I closed the holopad, resting my head against the couch’s armrest. Vilvit only cared as much as she was allowed. A Dominion war vet with a mean temper on a bad day, and barely enough empathy to scrape by. Her help was genuine at least, if a bit grating and robotic.
I craned my head over the back of the couch to see Nuri furiously typing away on her holopad surrounded by a mess of papers and pictures. The bullet wounds on my chest and shoulder were still a bit sore as I got up. The marsupial’s gaze caught mine and she gave me an inviting smile. “Morning, Jaki.”
“Morning, Nuri. What’s all this?” I asked, gesturing to the papers strewn about the table. She lifted her mug of coffee and took a sip. There was a brown ring left on the paper she’d accidentally used as a coaster.
“I’m finalizing the report on the Humanity First purge on Skalga. They’ve got peacekeepers all over the place raiding buildings and showing those terrorists who’s boss,” Nuri answered.
“Ah, nice.”
“You got any plans today?”
“Not that I know of. The lab’s still closed indefinitely, so I might have to find a new job soon. Until then it’s television and the local library.”
“Psh, nerd,” she grinned, still typing furiously.
“Oh whatever,” I chuckled, “How’s that carpal tunnel gonna feel from all this writing?”
“Terrible if that was something I could even get,” she replied slyly. “Hey,” she said suddenly, “You hungry?”
“I could eat,” I responded.
“Good, cause I found this place I wanted to try out,” she answered.
“Like a restaurant?” I questioned. “I’m not really much of a salad guy,” I chuckled.
“Jakiv you dingus, it’s a steakhouse, I’m not gonna take you somewhere you can’t eat at,” she giggled.
I sheepishly smiled, “Oh, yeah, right.”
She finished typing up her report and sent it to her boss. “Come on then, Jaki,” the marsupial took my hand. We buckled into the car and I watched her type the address into her GPS.
“‘Earthen Eats: Steak and Salad’,” I read aloud.
“The reviews are pretty good,” she smiled as we drove down the street. “And it’s the only place in town with food we can both eat.”
“So,” I said, “What’s the occasion?”
“Does there need to be one?” Nuri asked. “Can’t a gal get her friend a good meal every now and again?”
Something was off about her demeanor today, but I couldn’t say what. I decided to just shrug it off and go along with things. But I couldn’t shake a nagging feeling that something was going on.
~~~
We parked outside the place. It was bustling with mostly humans enjoying the food and drinks. We stepped inside together, hand-in-paw, and waited for the human waiter to seat us.
“Table for 2,” Nuri chirped. The human didn’t seem too put off by my appearance, but he also didn’t seem fond of me.
“Right this way,” he said mostly to my marsupial friend.
He sat us down all the way back in a booth and handed us a pair of menus. My translator worked to identify what it could, but human culinary expertise was unheard of in my native tongue. They seemed to have a word for just about everything when it comes to food.
“Well,” Nuri said, “The salad options are pretty diverse. You see anything that looks good?”
“Maybe a New Liberty strip,” I mumbled reading the description.
“Howdy, what can I get you two to drink?” a human waitress, different from the man who led us here, broke my thought.
“Oh uh, I’ll just take a beer,” I said.
“Alright. Would that be skalgan, human, or yotul?”
“Yotul please,” I smiled.
“Weak!” Nuri giggled under her breath.
“Oh go ahead and show me up then,” I grinned, “Last time you had booze, you permanently stained my hoodie with drool.”
She held up her middle digit, “I’ll have the same thing,” she told the waitress. The human jotted it down and retreated to the kitchen. “It’s nice being out and about with you,” Nuri said finally. “Not just lazing around the house… not that there’s anything wrong with that.”
“Nah, I get it. The only place we ever go is that bar,” I chuckled. “I think it’s nice trying out something a little different.”
“Agreed,” Nuri concurred.
The waitress returned, setting down two pints of yellowish liquid with a faint blue hue. “Have you two figured out what you want to eat?”
“I’ll take the South Seito garden mix,” Nuri read off.
“I’ll have the New Liberty strip.” The waitress took the orders and the menus, then again left for the kitchen. “Oh if only they had gojid,” I sighed with faux-longing. We watched a zurulian flinch and couldn’t hold in our laughter.
“You’re sick in the head, Jaki,” Nuri said.
“Glad you finally noticed.”
~~~
The food came and went. My steak was delicious. I didn’t fully understand the merits of cooking it until now. Nuri’s salad was a collection of vibrant leaves. I took one, which she protested, and tasted it. I’ll never understand how anyone enjoys those bland plants.
The yotul leaned back in the booth, a satisfied look on her face and her paws on her stomach. “That was really good,” she said satisfied.
“Glad you think so,” I smiled. “My food was good too.”
“That’s good.”
“Yeah,” I trailed off and stared at the cushions on the seat of the booth. It was suddenly very awkward. That feeling from earlier was back, though I had no idea what it even was.
“Jaki?” Nuri asked.
“Yeah?”
“You know, there’s a reason I brought you here,” she began, tracing a circle with her claw along the table.
“There is?” I asked.
She sucked in a breath. What was that, nervousness? I’ve never seen Nuri so unsure of herself as she shuffled awkwardly in the booth. “I wanted to tell you something, but I’m- I don’t know how,” she confessed.
“Tell me what?” I questioned.
“That you’re like, my closest friend, and I- I love you,” she said finally.
“Oh, well I love you too,” I stated.
She fell into a fit of raucous laughter, “Jaki, no, oh my god,” she caught her breath, “Dude I mean I love you, I want to be with you,” she expressed.
“I- you what?” my brain was on the fritz. My heart was threatening to pound out of my chest. I opened my mouth to speak, but my words failed me.
She gave me an amused look as I fumbled for my words. My claws were shaky and my breathing was quickened. “Jakiv,” she smiled, “Come here.” I followed, leaning forward, where she quickly put her paws on either side of my face, and pressed her lips against mine.
In that moment, I couldn’t think of anything. My mind went completely blank as my lips yearned for her to keep kissing me. She broke away, but I just stared ahead, my jaw slackened.
“Did I go too far?” she asked, suddenly worried.
“Nah,” I smiled, finally regaining my composure. The yotul broke into a grin, taking my hands in her paws. My tail swished wildly behind me. “How long have you felt this way?” I asked.
“How long have you?” the marsupial shot back.
“Shit,” I chuckled, “Too long. I don’t think I’ve ever cared about someone as much as I care about you. Or been cared about half as much,” I sighed.
“Have you never been on a date before?” Nuri asked.
“I haven’t even had a friend before.”
“That’s awful, Jaki.”
“Nah, it all worked out for me. Because now I’ve got you,” I smiled.
“You big flirt,” she chuckled.
I leaned forward again, “I love you, Nuri.”
“I love you too, Jaki,” we kissed again, to the abject horror of every other person in the restaurant. But we didn’t care, all that mattered was us. Together.
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Memory transcription subject: Silvon, venlil biologist
Date [Standardized human time]: September 2nd, 2148
[Day 26]
My holopad buzzed. I looked up from the goopy hospital vegetables and popped the device open.
Dr. Silvon,
It’s with great relief to inform you that in the wake of Aaron Clemont’s death, your and Dr. Stat’s travel restrictions have been lifted. The late Nulon and Lew’s funeral will be held on the 4th at 8 am (SHT) in the Morva Falls Cemetary. A shuttle has already been arranged to pick the two of you up tomorrow morning as approved by your doctors.
Yours, Governor Maulo of the Venlil Republic
I sighed, putting the holopad back down, and stared into the mucky purple food congealing in my bowl. I rubbed my forehead with my paw, not even sure how to feel. In all the excitement of the past few days, my parents had been mercifully cast from my mind. I never got the proper chance to come to terms with everything. Tears threatened to spill over as I leaned back into the hospital bed.
“Hey, Silvvy, you okay?” Danny called across the room, a violet smear across his mouth.
“Yeah, just fine,” I lied. I swished the veggies idly as my brain was being pressure-cooked by endless memories of how great things were before the flu. How great things were before I lost them.
“Silvon,” he said a bit more sternly, “what’s wrong? I know what you look like when you’re distressed.”
My ears were pinned to the sides of my head as I doubled forward, the sobs escaping my throat with vitriolic fury. I smashed my paws through the cheap hospital tray, food splattered across the pale white blankets, the chunks like the brain matter painted in the lab hallways. “NOTHING, DANNY!” I roared, my voice shattered into a million pieces never to be reassembled as my whole body shuddered and doubled over.
Danny set aside the tray of food, swinging a cast-clad foot to the floor and stumbling his way toward me on uneven feet. I begged silently, only able to communicate with hasty, illegible tail flicks because the rest of my body was too occupied caving into itself. He put a hand on my shoulder and I flinched hard. “Silvon, please,” he whispered, “You can talk to me.”
“I-” I gasped, then babbled incoherently. I gestured toward the holopad with my filthy, purple-stained hands. The human leaned against my bed for balance as he took the device and opened it to the email. He read it all the way through, then somberly lowered the holopad.
“I’m so sorry, hon,” he murmured. “I’m sorry,” his hazel eyes shimmered. He sat down on the bed next to me, uncaring for the sloppy mess of food, and wrapped his arms tightly around me. I buried my face in his chest, locking him in my own embrace.
He knows how that kind of loss feels. I felt safe in his arms, but bad about hiding my misery. He rubbed a hand up and down my back, whispering secure little promises into my pinned-down ears. “I loved them so much,” I sobbed, “I don’t- I can’t believe they’re gone.”
“I know you did, Silvvy,” he breathed, “Those bastards can’t take any more of your life away.”
“I- I almost lost you, Danny. What am I- how am I supposed to move on?”
He paused a moment. I felt his grip get just a bit tighter. He was so warm. “I don’t know,” he said finally, “but I’ll always be by your side. Every step of the way.”
“Danny-” I cried, “how did- how did you ever get over this?” I asked, pulling my head from his chest to gaze into his dark, teary eyes.
He took a sharp breath, glancing around the room while thinking. “I don’t think I ever did,” he confessed. “I was afraid back on Earth, and I’m afraid now. I guess we’re afraid together.”
“Together,” I mused. The ring on my paw felt so natural now, even though we’ve only been engaged for less than 3 weeks.
“Together,” Danny urged. I put my paws on his cheeks and pressed our lips together.
~~~
Memory transcription subject: Governor Maulo of the Venlil Republic
Date [Standardized human time]: September 2nd, 2148
[Day 26]
The raids yesterday were a rousing success. Several hundred Humanity First members are either dead or locked up. I concluded the email authorizing Leirn to begin supplying our hospitals with the vaccine and hit send. If the Sapient Coalition is gonna try me for crimes against sapience, I’ll at least ensure my species’ survival before I get arrested.
My emerald-eyed assistant strutted into my office. “Governor, I’m happy to report that the infection has been largely contained to the Qalugh Hemisphere. We’ve had a couple of small reports in Taiza and Morva Falls, but quarantine procedures are being properly followed,” Servaen’s tone was chipper.
“Thank stars,” I sighed, prodding my temples with my paws.
His ears fell sensing my stress. “Sir, are you worried about the trial?” he asked.
“How can I not be? Everything I’ve done has been for the good of Skalga. If the damn Federation hadn’t gotten into everyone’s heads, a million people wouldn’t have died,” I slid open the drawer on my desk, withdrawing a bottle of scotch. “You want a drink? You’ve been working hard enough to earn one,” I asked, setting up two glasses.
“Uh, sure?” he answered hesitantly. I laughed, pouring both of us a drink and sliding him his glass.
“If I get impeached, at least I’m going out with a bang,” I grinned. “For Skalga!”
“For Skalga,” he agreed. We clinked our glasses together and drank. He set down the glass, a look of bemusement written on his features. “Stars, this is weak,” he commented.
“It’s human,” I told him, savoring the flavor of the drink. “Practically water, but it takes the edge off a bit.” I slid the bottle back into its drawer and set the glasses aside. I put a paw to my chin, “humans,” I breathed.
“Humans?”
“Humans. Complicated, enigmatic, and our closest allies for over a decade,” I mused. “They’re political leaders who want peace among the stars and terrorists who want to subjugate us. I strive to understand them, but every turn something like this happens that makes me reevaluate where I put my trust. There were hundreds of Humanity First. Hundreds. Right beneath our snouts, they operated. And sure, we’ve stamped out plenty, but who’s to say we’ve gotten all of them? That they aren’t lying in wait for another disaster to capitalize on like the flu? Justifying the Federation’s fear-mongering among the masses, and giving the populace a reason to lash out like Ransu,” I shook my head, sucking in a deep breath and sighing heavily, “Skalga stands with the UN through and through. If infighting is inherently predatory, then we’re all predators.”
“Well said, governor,” Servaen said nodding. “Maybe save that for the trial though. You and Mesu standing against the entire Coalition.”
“Yeah, you’re right. I don’t know how I can smooth talk my way out of this one,” I grimaced at the thought of the kolshian and farsul representatives, still in their prejudiced cahoots, shooting down every possible defense I may have. I clenched my paws in rage. “For Skalga,” I spat.
~~~
Memory transcription subject: Jakiv, arxur scientist
Date [Standardized human time]: September 2nd, 2148
[Day 26]
“How are you doing, Jakiv?”
“Fine.”
“Have you been eating well?”
“Yes.”
“I heard about the breakthrough, when can I expect to see you back at work?”
“Never :)”
“How come?”
“I filed for citizenship on Leirn. You wouldn’t catch me dead on that hellhole we call a home planet.”
“Citizenship? On a prey planet? Have you finally lost it?”
“Long ago, Vilvit.”
“What prompted you to endure the leaf-lickers permanently?”
“A friend did.”
“A friend?”
“Yeah. I met someone. One of those ‘leaf-lickers’. I think you’d like her.”
“Is that so? I find it hard to believe the same man who refused to even speak to his own species is suddenly buddy-buddy with prey.”
“Well believe it, because I’m not coming back. I’ve found something here on Leirn that I’ve desperately been missing. I can’t return to Wriss after everything I’ve been through here. Not ever. Thanks for taking care of me when I needed it, but I don’t need it anymore. I’m all set.”
“Do they really make you that happy?”
“More than I thought possible.”
“Take care of yourself then, Jakiv.”
“You as well.”
I closed the holopad, resting my head against the couch’s armrest. Vilvit only cared as much as she was allowed. A Dominion war vet with a mean temper on a bad day, and barely enough empathy to scrape by. Her help was genuine at least, if a bit grating and robotic.
I craned my head over the back of the couch to see Nuri furiously typing away on her holopad surrounded by a mess of papers and pictures. The bullet wounds on my chest and shoulder were still a bit sore as I got up. The marsupial’s gaze caught mine and she gave me an inviting smile. “Morning, Jaki.”
“Morning, Nuri. What’s all this?” I asked, gesturing to the papers strewn about the table. She lifted her mug of coffee and took a sip. There was a brown ring left on the paper she’d accidentally used as a coaster.
“I’m finalizing the report on the Humanity First purge on Skalga. They’ve got peacekeepers all over the place raiding buildings and showing those terrorists who’s boss,” Nuri answered.
“Ah, nice.”
“You got any plans today?”
“Not that I know of. The lab’s still closed indefinitely, so I might have to find a new job soon. Until then it’s television and the local library.”
“Psh, nerd,” she grinned, still typing furiously.
“Oh whatever,” I chuckled, “How’s that carpal tunnel gonna feel from all this writing?”
“Terrible if that was something I could even get,” she replied slyly. “Hey,” she said suddenly, “You hungry?”
“I could eat,” I responded.
“Good, cause I found this place I wanted to try out,” she answered.
“Like a restaurant?” I questioned. “I’m not really much of a salad guy,” I chuckled.
“Jakiv you dingus, it’s a steakhouse, I’m not gonna take you somewhere you can’t eat at,” she giggled.
I sheepishly smiled, “Oh, yeah, right.”
She finished typing up her report and sent it to her boss. “Come on then, Jaki,” the marsupial took my hand. We buckled into the car and I watched her type the address into her GPS.
“‘Earthen Eats: Steak and Salad’,” I read aloud.
“The reviews are pretty good,” she smiled as we drove down the street. “And it’s the only place in town with food we can both eat.”
“So,” I said, “What’s the occasion?”
“Does there need to be one?” Nuri asked. “Can’t a gal get her friend a good meal every now and again?”
Something was off about her demeanor today, but I couldn’t say what. I decided to just shrug it off and go along with things. But I couldn’t shake a nagging feeling that something was going on.
~~~
We parked outside the place. It was bustling with mostly humans enjoying the food and drinks. We stepped inside together, hand-in-paw, and waited for the human waiter to seat us.
“Table for 2,” Nuri chirped. The human didn’t seem too put off by my appearance, but he also didn’t seem fond of me.
“Right this way,” he said mostly to my marsupial friend.
He sat us down all the way back in a booth and handed us a pair of menus. My translator worked to identify what it could, but human culinary expertise was unheard of in my native tongue. They seemed to have a word for just about everything when it comes to food.
“Well,” Nuri said, “The salad options are pretty diverse. You see anything that looks good?”
“Maybe a New Liberty strip,” I mumbled reading the description.
“Howdy, what can I get you two to drink?” a human waitress, different from the man who led us here, broke my thought.
“Oh uh, I’ll just take a beer,” I said.
“Alright. Would that be skalgan, human, or yotul?”
“Yotul please,” I smiled.
“Weak!” Nuri giggled under her breath.
“Oh go ahead and show me up then,” I grinned, “Last time you had booze, you permanently stained my hoodie with drool.”
She held up her middle digit, “I’ll have the same thing,” she told the waitress. The human jotted it down and retreated to the kitchen. “It’s nice being out and about with you,” Nuri said finally. “Not just lazing around the house… not that there’s anything wrong with that.”
“Nah, I get it. The only place we ever go is that bar,” I chuckled. “I think it’s nice trying out something a little different.”
“Agreed,” Nuri concurred.
The waitress returned, setting down two pints of yellowish liquid with a faint blue hue. “Have you two figured out what you want to eat?”
“I’ll take the South Seito garden mix,” Nuri read off.
“I’ll have the New Liberty strip.” The waitress took the orders and the menus, then again left for the kitchen. “Oh if only they had gojid,” I sighed with faux-longing. We watched a zurulian flinch and couldn’t hold in our laughter.
“You’re sick in the head, Jaki,” Nuri said.
“Glad you finally noticed.”
~~~
The food came and went. My steak was delicious. I didn’t fully understand the merits of cooking it until now. Nuri’s salad was a collection of vibrant leaves. I took one, which she protested, and tasted it. I’ll never understand how anyone enjoys those bland plants.
The yotul leaned back in the booth, a satisfied look on her face and her paws on her stomach. “That was really good,” she said satisfied.
“Glad you think so,” I smiled. “My food was good too.”
“That’s good.”
“Yeah,” I trailed off and stared at the cushions on the seat of the booth. It was suddenly very awkward. That feeling from earlier was back, though I had no idea what it even was.
“Jaki?” Nuri asked.
“Yeah?”
“You know, there’s a reason I brought you here,” she began, tracing a circle with her claw along the table.
“There is?” I asked.
She sucked in a breath. What was that, nervousness? I’ve never seen Nuri so unsure of herself as she shuffled awkwardly in the booth. “I wanted to tell you something, but I’m- I don’t know how,” she confessed.
“Tell me what?” I questioned.
“That you’re like, my closest friend, and I- I love you,” she said finally.
“Oh, well I love you too,” I stated.
She fell into a fit of raucous laughter, “Jaki, no, oh my god,” she caught her breath, “Dude I mean I love you, I want to be with you,” she expressed.
“I- you what?” my brain was on the fritz. My heart was threatening to pound out of my chest. I opened my mouth to speak, but my words failed me.
She gave me an amused look as I fumbled for my words. My claws were shaky and my breathing was quickened. “Jakiv,” she smiled, “Come here.” I followed, leaning forward, where she quickly put her paws on either side of my face, and pressed her lips against mine.
In that moment, I couldn’t think of anything. My mind went completely blank as my lips yearned for her to keep kissing me. She broke away, but I just stared ahead, my jaw slackened.
“Did I go too far?” she asked, suddenly worried.
“Nah,” I smiled, finally regaining my composure. The yotul broke into a grin, taking my hands in her paws. My tail swished wildly behind me. “How long have you felt this way?” I asked.
“How long have you?” the marsupial shot back.
“Shit,” I chuckled, “Too long. I don’t think I’ve ever cared about someone as much as I care about you. Or been cared about half as much,” I sighed.
“Have you never been on a date before?” Nuri asked.
“I haven’t even had a friend before.”
“That’s awful, Jaki.”
“Nah, it all worked out for me. Because now I’ve got you,” I smiled.
“You big flirt,” she chuckled.
I leaned forward again, “I love you, Nuri.”
“I love you too, Jaki,” we kissed again, to the abject horror of every other person in the restaurant. But we didn’t care, all that mattered was us. Together.
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