Budget: 3.5k CAD (I don't want to go overboard if i don't have to though.
Operating System: Windows
Hi! As indicated above I am looking for a high powered machine I can use for all my VR development tasks. I work primarily in Unity and have been past decade. My machine is nearing a decade old and though at the time it was really good, now its really starting to hurt as time between testing is becoming horrendous, especially on big projects that demand lots of CPU, GPU and Memory (both disk n ram).
Pretty much every area I need improvement and thankfully I have funding for my development at the moment so its a good time to get updated with the latest.
Basically most of my issues right now are that iteration time is slow. I press play in Unity and it takes 20 seconds to test the build on a good day. It seems like my coworkers are taking like 1-5 seconds maximum.. I really would like it to be faster. Other issues are just when I get into "Quest Link" it starts really using a lot of GPU and my fans start getting very loud. Its frustrating hearing that would love for something quieter with this build.
I have heard of people having problems with water cooling and that breaking build, wondering if its smarter to stay away from that especially if I'm not planning on overclocking this PC.
One of my coworkers gave me the PC partlist they used to build theirs: https://ca.pcpartpicker.com/list/kQqwbL
I'm not sure about AMD vs Intel, always gone with Intel until now because I was worried about compatbility, and generally i aim for Nvidia too, also for that purpose. Nvidia comes out with a lot of useful tools.
I also frequently have issues with disk space, and working memory is easily eaten up so its not smart for me to go too low on that end. I think i need a 2TB SSD (Nvme?) and then maybe another 4TB just hard disk so i can always have storage space available for recording and whatnot.
I really don't know what to do / pick here with what I'm looking for. Guidance would be massively appreciated.
THANKS.
Note: 3.5k is my max budget, I don't wanna spend it all unless it actually is necessary. I don't know at what point i'll get diminishing returns.

Okay, not made a lengthy but useless post in a while to chill off, and nows the perfect time since I am very exhausted.
So, title basically. I am going to try and see how manh cases Phoenix actually got paid for in the trilogy, and if it's a toss between pro bono and paid, I'll go with the latter since... It makes more sense I think.
Anyways, the First Turnabout. It's pro bono, do I have to explain?
Second, Turnabout Sisters. Again, pro bono, at first I thought it was because Maya is broke and a literal child but then again she probably tried to pay him with Mia's money given that she's probably the heir to Mia, but yeah, even still Phoenix would no doubt decline because the case is regarding his mentor's death and the client is her sister he practically adopts post this case so yeah.
Turnabout Samurai is fucking bank for Phoenix. I don't think he'd really feel guilty taking money from my main man Powers and I am pretty sure Powers being the sweetheart he is probably gave him a crazy amount as fee (way more than the average sum for an already high profile case) seeing that he's so rich. It might just be the highest paying case Phoenix worked on in the series actually, even after the trilogy, and the case that made him a public legend figure as displayed in DD (it still doesn't make sense, but.. that's the best we can make of it)
After thinking about it, Turnabout Goodbyes is probably bank too, in fact I am pretty sure Phoenix got payed a lot by Miles, not to say Phoenix wouldn't decline, but I doubt Miles would have that and likely paid him a generous amount, which again, is probably higher than the standard fee.
Rise from the Ashes is kind of a coin toss, but I am genuinely leaning on bank. Again, Phoenix obviously wouldn't accept payment from Ema since again, she's a fucking child, but Lana like Miles likely insisted and paid him nonetheless for saying her sister, not to mention a somewhat cheap government reward maybe for bringing down a high ranking government official.
Reunion and Turnabout is pro bono. Maya and Phoenix are close enough now that they don't Maya doesn't have to even try to pay him because she knows he wouldn't accept it.
Lost Turnabout is pro bono at worst and a very cheap voluntarily fee at worst. Phoenix likely didn't expect nor wanted any actual money from it, seeing as the detectives are so underpaid, yes, that includes Maggey, and since Phoenix is doing a favour for Gumshoe.
Turnabout Big Top is the second third case and it's again, by far the highest paying case in the game. It's not very hard to see why, Max like Will is also a celebrity even if to a lesser extent, and Max is probably thankful to Phoenix for resolving the shitstorm that is the circus, but then again who knows what that loser thinks. Still, bank.
Farewell, My Turnabout, by far my favourite case in the series and nothing even comes close, but for Phoenix? One would assume it was "pro bono" given the whole blackmail thing and the fact that Matt got convicted by the end of it, but then I remembered that's now how lawyers work, you pay them in advance and live with it even if they fuck up. So I am guessing Matt's manager probably transferred Phoenix a large sum when he took on the case, comparable to Turnabout Samurai even. I know what you are saying, Matt is too evil to do that, but I am pretty sure he doesn't mind paying the lawyer man, he's rich enough that it likely doesn't matter, and the blackmail only really started when Phoenix figured everything out.
Stolen Turnabout is the first case where Phoenix probably got payed the average fee lol. Mind you the average fee is also quite expensive but it's not an extreme, and I doubt Phoenix even felt any need to decline payment since he's clients are literal criminals, and they probably have a lot of money in the trunk considering they don't get convicted due to double jeopardy (which is fucking idiotic, being 'mask demasque' isn't a charge).
Recipe for Turnabout is a low voluntary fee, given it's Maggey again.
Bridge to the Turnabout is back to the basics, going full pro bono, which is funny since this case is likely the single most strenuous one Phoenix has to handle until now lol.
So yeah, surprisingly, when I looked at it, Phoenix got paid a lot 6 cases, one of which was the average fee (which is still quite high for a murder trial in which Pheonix literally overturns the entire findings of the cops), and 7 cases where he went either pro bono or received a very low fee for the effort. It actually makes somewhat sense to me, at first I thought it was stupid how Phoenix could sustain himself and Maya but when you look at it he likely got paid a lot when he did, now of course he takes massive gaps between cases, but they show him being stingy so I don't think it's a stretch to think he survives if he lives like an upper lower class man.

Register for FREE Hello Crypto Partners,
https://invite.globalpremiers.com/?ref=ottok
READ CAREFULLY AND COMPLETELY..."
WHAT HAPPENS IF A: $BILLION TECH COMPANY $BILLION TRAVEL COMPANY $BILLION NUTRITION CO. BILLION $JEWELRY CO. AS WELL AS MANY OTHERS,
WHO WANT TO BECOME THE DISRUPTIVE COMPANY OF THE DECADE IN 2024 AND MAKE IT BIG WITH BITCOIN, GLOBALLY? ..
YOU HAVE THE MONEY AND POWER TO CREATE GREAT SUCCESS!
Starting to pour by the minute?
THE ANSWER: POTENTIAL LIFE-CHANGING RETIREMENT INCOME FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. OVER 300 PEOPLE IN 15 COUNTRIES REGISTERED IN EVERY MINUTE OF THE FIRST 36 HOURS
THE BITCOIN IN BITCOIN OUT” GLOBAL POWERLINE IN FRONT OF YOU. I think you should take a look and register for this opportunity as soon as possible. THEY ARE IN THE WORLD TRADE CENTER IN NEW YORK AND IN DUBAI. Free members earn $50 to $1,000 in quick start bonuses! Top earners can make a million dollars a week. Points to Ponder… Dubai BTC Billionaire – Launches First Bitcoin Meetings Groupon Deal… FREE 2 LOCK YOUR SPOT!
It takes 2 minutes to secure your spot and start sending the same SMS/email with your personal details! You will need your first name, your last name and your email address to register, completely free.
HERE IS MY INFORMATION AND THE WEBSITE FOR YOUR REGISTRATION.
Otto Knotzer
EMAIL: ok69991@gmail.com
You can copy this text/email and simply enter your name and email address to send it to others. Many do, and in less than 36 hours 300 were registered. LOOKS LIKE IT WORKS! “IT’S TOO LATE TO BUY BITCOIN FOR $1 – BUT IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO EARN MORE BITCOIN THAN YOU CAN IMAGINE”
To our success in 2024
https://invite.globalpremiers.com/?ref=ottok

Are you tired of battling unruly brows every morning? Do you dream of perfectly groomed, sleek brows that stay in place all day? Look no further than Belris LLC, where we specialize in the art of Brow Lamination in Los Angeles.
Brow lamination is the latest trend in eyebrow grooming, and for good reason. This innovative treatment helps to tame stubborn brows, providing a sleek and polished look that lasts for weeks. At Belris LLC, our skilled technicians use gentle yet effective products to smooth and set your brows into your desired shape, whether you prefer a natural, brushed-up look or defined, structured arches.
What sets Belris LLC apart is our dedication to quality and precision. We understand that your brows are as unique as you are, which is why we take the time to customize each treatment to suit your individual needs and preferences. Our goal is not just to enhance your brows, but to enhance your entire look, leaving you feeling confident and beautiful.
Experience the difference of Belris LLC's brow lamination in Los Angeles. Our luxurious salon environment provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Let our expert technicians work their magic as you unwind and indulge in a little self-care.
With Belris LLC, the results speak for themselves. Say goodbye to brow gel and hello to effortlessly perfect brows that require minimal maintenance. Whether you're preparing for a special occasion or simply want to upgrade your everyday look, brow lamination is the secret weapon you've been searching for.
Join the countless satisfied clients who have experienced the transformative power of Belris LLC brow lamination in Los Angeles. Book your appointment today and unlock the secret to flawless, perfectly groomed brows. Your journey to beautiful brows starts here.

I've been meaning to make this post for a while but life kept getting in the way.
There is a bunch of new (well, new to me) stuff I've discovered over the last few weeks, and wanted to share my thoughts with you.
Let's start with the "prequel" (although never canonically confirmed) to the Marathon series was a game called Pathways to Darkness. The backstory for this game is:

Sixty-four million years ago, a large extra-terrestrial object struck the Earth in what would later be called the Yucatan Peninsula, in south eastern Mexico. The dust and rock thrown up by the resulting explosion caused enormous climactic changes in the ensuing years, and many of the Earth's species became extinct during the long winter that followed.
The object itself was buried thousands of feet below ground, its nearly two kilometer length remarkably intact. It remained there, motionless, for thousands of years before it finally began to stir-- and to dream.

Hmm. Buried below ground. Finally beginning to stir and dream. Who does that sound like?
Let's keep going.

The heat of impact liquefied the rock around it, which later cooled and encased the dead god's huge body far below ground. As it began to dream, it wrought unintentional changes in its environment. Locked deep beneath the Earth, strange and unbelievable things faded in and out of reality. Vast caverns and landscapes bubbled to life within the rock, populated by horrible manifestations of the dead god's dream.

As it began to dream, it wrought unintentional changes in its environment.. Locked deep beneath the Earth, strange and unbelievable things faded in and out of reality.
Like Fingerrats? Or like Spider-wolves?

Vast caverns and landscapes bubbled to life within the rock, populated by horrible manifestations of the dead god's dream.

Caverns and landscapes. I want to expand this point here for a bit because it's also mirrored across Alagaesia.
Let's start with Helgrind.
For any FV enjoyers, I've previously speculated that Helgrind is a reliquary, or a previously living being that was transformed (a la Ctein).
But the curious thing here is the timeline of Helgrind and it's tunnel system, taken with the above context.

Q: Assuming it wasn't built by the Ra'zac themselves, was the lair inside Helgrind purpose-built for the Ra'zac and Lethrblaka, or did they appropriate it some time after it was built? If it wasn't built for them, what was its original purpose?
A: Partially natural formations (linked to tunnels elsewhere in Alagaësia), partly expanded by the priests of Helgrind and Galbatorix himself.

But... The Ra'Zac didn't inhabit Helgrind until at least after the Humans came over. So these tunnels underneath Helgrind existed before the Ra'Zac, or Galbatorix ever set foot on Alagaesia. Which, I don't know about you, but a massive network of tunnels does not smell entirely natural to me.
So.. where else are there "natural" formations that link to other tunnels elsewhere in Alagaesia?
We've seen these "natural" formations in Vroengard:

Q: The deeps under Vroengard, were they created by the riders or was it a previous system of caverns that they repurposed?
A: Previous system. I mean, there's been work done on them, but... 'It looks similar, parts of it feel similar to the caverns that we encountered in this book. They both have that hole in the cave which goes deeper, with something in the hole that's not clearly defined.' Yeah.

And we've seen similar depictions in the Beors, and Nal Gorgoth. So from the Beors to Vroengard, "natural" tunnels exist underground. I don't buy that they are entirely natural.
Given the context of the Marathon game above:

Vast caverns and landscapes bubbled to life within the rock, populated by horrible manifestations of the dead god's dream.

I think these tunnels came from Azlagur.
Let's switch gears here, I want to talk about another archaeological mystery in the world of Eragon - El-Harim.
I believe El-Harim was heavily influenced by the (not canon confirmed, but implied) prequel to the Marathon games, the Pathways into Darkness

Pathways casts the player as a member of a US Army Special Forces team sent on a mission to the Yucatán Peninsula. On May 5, 1994, a diplomat from the alien race known as the Jjaro appeared to the President of the United States and informed him that on May 13, an ancient godlike being sleeping beneath a pyramid would awaken and destroy the Earth. The only way to prevent this catastrophe is to prevent the god from awakening. The eight-man Special Forces team carries a nuclear weapon, with the goal of entering the ancient pyramid, descending to the bottom level where the god sleeps, and activating the bomb to stun the god and bury it under tons of rock.

Getting into a bit more of the backstory:

Only during the last few centuries has the god begun to effect changes on the surface of the Earth. Grotesque creatures have been sighted deep in the trackless forest of the Yucatan, and strange rumors of an ancient pyramid-- which is neither Aztec nor Mayan-- in the same area have been circulating in the archaeological community since the early 1930's.

Pyramid, eh? There are two different options here I can think of that equate.
The extended FWW Map
First, in the extended map from FWW, we can see a Pyramid-esque shape - Different color, different slope, etc.
Or, second (and probably more likely), it could be El-Harim:

It is a very bad place. It’s a place where some bad things happened at one point and it’s not a good place to go walking around. I don’t want to get into it too much more because again, it’s a good possibility for another story and I want to keep thinking about it a bit more. It is in Alagaesia and we’ve actually been close to the location.

Many speculate that the below vision from Eragon in Brisingr, which was never explained in the main cycle, is of El-Harim:

And he rested, and visions beset him of a circular stone city that stood in the center of an endless plain and of a small girl who wandered among the narrow, winding alleys within and who sang a haunting melody (A Feast with Friends, Brisingr).

If this vision IS El-Harim , it's super significant because of these two descriptors:

circular stone city
narrow, winding alleys

Fractals. The city itself is a fractal, like Nidus for any FV enjoyers.
The narrow winding alleys are significant because of the descriptors of the Vanished/Grey folk:

The spaces between the structures were narrower than the humans preferred; the proportions were taller, thinner, which matched the images she had seed of the Vanished...
The ancient outline of the city was - as she suspected - a fractal, and the shape of it contained meaning.... At the nexus of the apttern, where it coiled in on itslef like a nautilus shell" (Shards, TSIASOS).

Narrow. Circular (Nautilus shell). Winding. Fractal.
Whatever this city is, El-Harim or otherwise, it is/was a grey folk/vanished city.
And given the quotes from above - "Its a place where some bad things happened at one point", and "dangerous, creeping, ancient, evil thing" - My guess is that the event that caused the Grey Folk to bind the AL to magic happened here, in El-Harim.
Alright, moving along.
Let's talk about the Az and the God. There are a few parallels I've talked around, but the BIG link between the two are Dreams. This is especially important because of the release of the world map recently.

We are the devotees of Azlagur, the Devourer. Azlagur the Firstborn. Azlagur the Dreamer. He who sleeps and whose sleeping mind weaves the warp and weft of the waking world. But the sleep grows restless" (Obliteration, Murtagh).

Versus

As it began to dream, it wrought unintentional changes in its environment. Locked deep beneath the Earth, strange and unbelievable things faded in and out of reality. Vast caverns and landscapes bubbled to life within the rock, populated by horrible manifestations of the dead god's dream.

I could write a whole post about the parallels between the two and their linkage to dreams, but I'll cut it short here for now to save room to dig in to other areas. Specifically, the Dreams connection is especially important because of the relase of the world map recently - I have another post here that gets into more detail, but the translations from the World Map in the middle translate to:

where dreams and dragons dwell

Dreams (!) and Dragons.
Combine that with the Etymology of the words:

Alagaësia ala = land gaësia = rich/fertile
Alalëa ala = land lëa = a beautiful dream
Elëa = the dream itself

So the planet, named Elea, translates to "The Dream Itself". Very interesting.
This is even more significant when you take into account this tweet chain from Chris, a bit earlier in March

Darn it. Just invented a name in the ancient language. Googled it to make sure no one else had used it ... only to discover that I had used it in an earlier book. Lol.
Can we ask what name?
Edurna

I believe the name was a potential candidate for the name of the planet of Alagaesia, which is important because of the etymology of THAT name (All credit to Zora for digging this one up).

Edurna sounds awfully like Adurna and Edur
Adurna meaning water and Edur being a prominence

Prominence. And Water. You know what that sounds like to me? Plaintive Verge. Just food for thought.
Second-to-last Az connection I want to cover: Hunger.

Whirling darkness swallowed him, and at the center of it... lay a formless horror - ancient and evil and from which emanated a constant merciless hunger (Dreams and Portents).

Versus a quote about the cosmic entity in Marathon:

Now I fear what that weapon has unleashed will destroy us. I once boasted to be able to count the atoms in a cloud, to understand them all, predict them, and so did I predict you, but this new chaos is entirely terrible, mindless, obeying rules that I don't comprehend. And it is hungry.

Now, the last piece of Azlagur-related lore I want to cover here is the "Black Sun".
In all of the visions, a Black Sun precipitates Azlagur's rise.

"A black sun rimmed by black flame hung against a darkling sky... The beast rose rampant against the black sun - A wingless dragon, apocalyptic in size, terrifying in presence. Destroyer of hope, eater of light"

Before getting into the Black Sun a bit more, there's an additional connection here I want to touch on - usage of the word rampant in connection with Azlagur.

In Marathon, Rampancy is the enhanced self-awareness of a computer AI, causing a progression towards greater mental abilities and destructive impulses. The destructive impulses, however, are primarily caused by being threatened or harassed. There are three main stages, as well as a fourth and final stage that is rarely achieved, to rampancy, named by the primary attitude of the AI during those times: Melancholia, Anger, Jealousy, and Meta-Stability.

There are some overlaps with what we see from the Maw.
And Melancholia.. that's an interesting word. Especially when taken into context the meaning of the name:

A melancholy dream of great beauty.

Melancholy.. Dream... The pieces of the puzzle are coming together. And Rampant...
Chris also uses that exact same verbiage when discussing a deleted scene from TSIASOS:

Q: I just finished reading To Sleep in a Sea of Stars and I have to know: it sounds like the Wranaui fought the corrupted during the Sundering but if that's true and it happened almost 300 years prior.... Who created the old corrupted? I've been questioning this for days!
A: That was actually in material cut by editors (some of the dream memories). Another Seed/Idealis was damaged and, when the Old Ones tried to separate it from its host, the xeno went rampant.

The xeno went rampant. Very interesting.
Alrighty, I keep getting distracted, back to the black sun.
The reason the Black Sun is important is because it always precipitates Azlagur's rise, throughout several of Murtahgh's visions. In each of them, there is a Black sun.
So, by this, we can extrapolate that the sun needs to be Black in order for Azlagur to rise (which is hinted at at the "Day of Black Sun" celebrations near the end of the book).
But... what does it actually mean?
There is a parallel in Marathon, their weapon:

The trih xeem (also "tri xeem") is an extremely powerful weapon that can be used to force a star into early nova... it was originally conceived and built by the Jjaro [The Old Ones/Vanished equivalent]. Much of the Marathon Infinity story revolves around preventing the Pfhor from using the tri xeem and inadvertently releasing a W'rkncacnter that is supposedly trapped within the Lh'owon sun.

So, the story of the last Marathon games revolves around preventing the usage of the weapon to release the cosmic-level baddie trapped in the sun. So, effectively, the antagonist is imprisoned by the sun.
But.. how does that translate to Azlagur and Murtagh?
The Black Sun requirement for Azlagur's rise could be construed as "imprisonment" by the sun; Azlagur cannot escape until the sun is turned Black. But it only really starts to come together when you piece together these pictures.
First, early concept art for the Fractalverse
You see the black orb, heading directly for the glowing star? Sounds pretty similar.
But that's not the smoking gun; look at the depiction of the black orb in the concept art, and compare it to the trih xeem, the weapon in Marathon.
A black orb with a trail heading directly for the sun. Almost an exact match.
OK.. so I get that it has some relevence in fractalverse, but how does it translate to Eragon?
Well, because of the Beors. Specifically, a picture CHRIS HIMSELF posted about the Beors.
Here
I propose that THIS black orb, at the top of the Beors (which, suspiciously, no one has traveled to) houses the black weapon. After all, the depiction is quite similar - A large, circular, black orb. Looks pretty similar to the other pictures.
And given the above context that Azlagur can only rise with a "Black Sun", the pieces all start to fit together. It's not perfect, but there are definitely a lot of overlaps.
Alright. I've been waiting for this one. The last piece. Let's talk about Angela.
Q: Will we get Angela lore? I feel like she could have killed Galbatorix and just didn't feel like it.
A: For those who don't know Angela is based on my sister Angela, because she breaks the fourth wall to a degree she has. Not only does she have plot armor, she knows she's in a story and can break the story itself. So, yes, she could have killed Galbatorix, but that would have made for a very bad story. That said, I do have an entire book planned around Angela, and it's very high on my list of books to write because it takes place before some of these other big stories I want to write. And that's also the difficult thing. I have my big storylines, and then I have a couple of one off side books I want to write, and it's just a question of time, energy and effort.
She knows she's in a story, and she can break the story.
Based on that, and several other descriptions I will get into in a bit, I think her story is directly related to the Marathon Infinity game.

Marathon Infinity begins as the Pfhor destroy Lh'owon using a Jjaro-derived doomsday weapon known as the Trih Xeem or "early nova". Unfortunately, the weapon also releases a powerful chaotic being: The W’rkncacnter, which threatens to destroy the entire galaxy. Because of the W’rkncacnter's chaos or by means of some Jjaro tech of his own, the player is transported back and forward in time, finding himself jumping between timelines and fighting for various sides in a desperate attempt to prevent the chaotic being's release.

and

In Marathon Infinity, a W'rkncacnter is imprisoned in the sun of planet Lh'owon. It is theorized by some that the W'rkncacnter's powerfully chaotic nature may be responsible for the jumps between realities seen in the game. When the Pfhor use a trih xeem device to send the star into early nova, the creature is released, to the horror and destruction of the Pfhor.

Angela is the Eragon-equivalent of the player.
She can transport back and forward in time, jumping between timelines, and fighting to prevent the chaotic being's (Azlagur's) release. Let's dive in.
First:

Q: Is it canon that Angela the Herbalist is a Time Lord and did she make a cameo in To Sleep in a Sea of Stars?
A: Is Angela the Herbalist is a Time Lord? That would be copyright infringement, so I'm going to say "no comment", but she is in To Sleep in a Sea of Stars. And there is a canon reason for this. And you should have no problem spotting who she is in that book.

So there's a canon reason she's in the book. Interesting. When you take that into context with the next bit

Q: On your last AMA on reddit, someone asked if any fan had guessed the identity and history of Angela correctly. You said nobody has guessed correctly and there's not enough information in the books to do so. That puts every fan theory out there on her wrong, correct? She's not the soothsayer, a time lord, grey folk, etc, correct?
A: Angela: Some of the fan theories have gotten parts of her history and identity correct. However, there's a HUGE aspect to her nature that no one has guessed (or least, not in a non-joking way). And no, I don't mean her being a Time Lord.

So there's a huge aspect to her nature that no one has guessed (at least at the time of writing). She's self-aware, knows she's in a story, and can jump around in time. And, similar to the Marathon games, it appears like only she knows that she's in a story.
So, based on the Marathon inspiration, we can guess that she is trying to accomplish the same thing - To prevent the release of the cosmic-level villain. We know that she has some kind of relationship with the Draumar:

In Murtagh, it’s revealed that Bachel and “Uluthrek” (Mooneater, Angela’s given Urgal name) met with Bachel explicitly going out to confront her (a courtesy not even offered to a Rider like Murtagh)

So, by extension, she has some kind of connection to Azlagur. This is supported by other circumstantial evidence in FWW as well:

Since we know that the Dream Well in Mani's Caves is similar to the Well in Nal Gorgoth I can assume that Angela is revealing the existence of the Draumar to Elva there? I feel certainly feel as if you're setting up her for something in the future series.
Heh. Good Catch.

So, she is clearly working with Elva to do something related to the Dream Wells, and she also previously confronted Bachel, many years ago. So throughout multiple years across the WoE, she is connected to Azlagur and the Draumar; her story clearly revolves around them/Azlagur, somehow.
Putting the above pieces together, my guess is that she is jumping around in different timelines, trying to manipulate actions of the past to prevent the rise of Azlagur. Just like the player character in Marathon. There's another piece of circumstantial evidence to support this assertion as well.
In Marathon Infinity:

After multiple "jumps," the player (seemingly the only one who realizes he is being transported between possible realities)

Versus Angela:

As hours passed, the stars turned above, night chill drew the heat from my body, and I fell into a curious trance, not asleep but not fully awake... The world altered" (On the Nature of Stars, FWW).

I believe this world "Altering" was the first time she experienced an alternate timeline, without knowing what it was at the time.
We've also seen her create "Doorways" as well - Although it's not clear if this is fast traveling (a la a Torque Gate), or truly opening a path to another timeline.
In Eldest:

"As they landed, he noticed a patch of white on a small hill nearby. The patch wavered strangely in the dark, like a floating candle, then resolved into Angela, who was wearing a pale wool tunic" (A Sorceress, a Snake, and a Scroll).

and then later, more concretely:

"I traced a line on the wall, reached out, and opened a door that wasn't there. ON the other side - nighttime, a beach by a black ocean lit only by stars, so many, many stars, more than there should be. Of course, I would not take Elva to my home, not yet. But this was a waypoint, a place to build and learn and grow... She stared into the gap, the impossible portal" (On the Nature of Stars, FWW).

Still, as always with Angela, so many questions.
Alright, we've reached an ungodly wordcount, so I'll call it here. There are still more connections I'm uncovering between the two series (such as the potential connection between the Gedway Ignasia and the "warning" sensation from Marathon), so I might make a follow-up post in the future with everything else I uncover.
As always, thanks for reading! Let me know what you think in the comments, or if you've found any other connections between the two.

Predictive Analytics Optimize Customer Churn Prediction

Introduction

In today's competitive business environment, retaining customers is more crucial than ever. One powerful tool businesses use to anticipate and mitigate customer churn is AI-driven predictive analytics. By leveraging advanced algorithms and vast amounts of data, companies can accurately predict which customers are likely to leave and implement strategies to retain them.

Understanding Predictive Analytics

Predictive analytics involves using historical data, statistical algorithms, and machine learning techniques to identify the likelihood of future outcomes. In the context of customer churn, it helps businesses understand patterns and factors that contribute to customer attrition.

The Importance of Customer Churn Prediction

Customer churn prediction is vital because retaining existing customers is often more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. Understanding why customers leave allows businesses to address underlying issues and improve customer satisfaction.

Role of AI in Predictive Analytics

AI enhances predictive analytics by automating data analysis and uncovering complex patterns that traditional methods might miss. Machine learning models can process vast datasets, identify trends, and continuously improve their predictions over time.

Data Collection and Preparation

Effective predictive analytics begins with robust data collection. This includes gathering data on customer demographics, transaction history, interaction logs, and more. Cleaning and preparing this data ensures accuracy and reliability in the analysis.

Feature Engineering

Feature engineering involves selecting and transforming variables in the dataset to improve the performance of predictive models. This might include creating new metrics, normalizing data, or identifying significant customer behaviors that impact churn.

Model Selection and Training

Choosing the right machine learning model is critical. Common models used in churn prediction include decision trees, random forests, and neural networks. These models are trained on historical data to learn patterns associated with customer retention and attrition.

Evaluation and Validation

Once trained, models must be evaluated and validated to ensure their accuracy. Techniques such as cross-validation and ROC curves help assess how well the model predicts churn and identify any areas for improvement.

Implementation of AI Models

Implementing AI models involves integrating them into the business's existing systems. This allows real-time data processing and immediate identification of at-risk customers, enabling timely interventions.

Real-Time Data Processing

AI-driven predictive analytics can process data in real-time, allowing businesses to respond quickly to changes in customer behavior. This agility is crucial in implementing effective retention strategies.

Identifying High-Risk Customers

By analyzing patterns and trends, AI models can identify high-risk customers with a high probability of churning. These insights enable businesses to target retention efforts more effectively.

Personalized Retention Strategies

AI enables personalized retention strategies tailored to individual customers. Whether it's offering special promotions, addressing specific issues, or providing customized support, personalization enhances the chances of retaining customers.

Measuring Effectiveness

It's essential to measure the effectiveness of retention strategies. Key performance indicators (KPIs) such as customer satisfaction scores, churn rates, and revenue impact help evaluate the success of predictive analytics initiatives.

Continuous Improvement

AI models benefit from continuous improvement. By regularly updating models with new data and feedback, businesses can refine their predictions and strategies, staying ahead of customer churn trends.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are paramount in AI-driven predictive analytics. Businesses must ensure data privacy, avoid biases in algorithms, and maintain transparency with customers regarding data use.

Conclusion

AI-driven predictive analytics offers a powerful approach to optimizing customer churn prediction. By leveraging advanced algorithms, real-time data processing, and personalized retention strategies, businesses can significantly enhance customer loyalty and reduce churn rates. As technology evolves, continuous improvement and ethical considerations will remain crucial in maximizing the benefits of AI in predictive analytics.
For more insights into AIML an[d](mailto:contact@htree.plus) [D](mailto:contact@htree.plus)a[ta Sc](mailto:contact@htree.plus)i[ence](mailto:contact@htree.plus) Development, please write to usat:[contact@fxis.ai](mailto:contact@fxis.ai)[FxisAi](mailto:contact@fxis.ai)

PredictiveAnalytics #CustomerRetention #AIDrivenInsights

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) had a rough start on May 13th, 2024, closing down over 400 points, about 1.02%, reflecting broader concerns about consumer inflation. The index closed at 39,082.78, with intraday swings between 38,923.14 and 39,478.21. Rising inflation fears drove the decline, with data suggesting a potential uptick in consumer inflation, which could erode purchasing power. This led to caution among investors, prompting some to sell stocks and seek refuge in less inflation-sensitive sectors like consumer staples or utilities.
Investors are also closely monitoring upcoming economic data, particularly the Consumer Price Index (CPI), for insights into inflation trends. Any signals from the Federal Reserve regarding interest rate hikes could significantly influence market behavior. Profit-taking after recent gains and ongoing geopolitical tensions may have also contributed to the market's decline.
Despite these concerns, the market reaction may be temporary, and long-term investors are advised to maintain diversified portfolios and consider their risk tolerance. The coming weeks will be crucial for understanding the depth and duration of this market correction, highlighting the importance of a well-thought-out investment strategy.

When you are the person who is responsible for everyone pain..it's killing you from inside.. I was in a relationship with a boy ...me met because our hobbies are same.. at one platform..then that frndship that bond was special..we like the company of each other..I always supported him for each n everything..his family was not so supportive,he is not from good family background,not financially strong.. Doing some temporary job..after we met.some months spent with good frndship after that he preposed me I told him I can't marry because my family don't allow it..n I can't leave them ..( because I love them so much ,they sufferd alot,my younger sister was no more at age of 19, my mother faced a major accident n much more I can't hurt them more) he told me you can be with me at the time you want..he also deserves love ..he asked me if he is not good looking he is not rich don't he deserves love ,..I was emotional atteched with him I said yes ..n this relationship started..he loves me alot..in his life the most important person was I...he care for me,loves me, respect, everything.. always treats me special.. I also loves him very much care support everything what he wanted I gave... but there are some limitations from my side I don't like that he force me for some intimate things...I told him I can't.. sometimes he understands this . sometimes not..it's only the issue between us..after that I want he do some good job or prepare for some exams...but because of family problems he can't...I I tried continuously for it that he becomes independent...n there will any chance to that I can put in front of my family..that he is in good job may be they consider this...our caste also different...so very rare chances for this marriage...I wanted that he becomes independent or got good job ... After some time I got a job ...when I told him he sacred that I will ditch him ..i told he have to become independent..only after that I can say something to my family but he told I have to talk to my family about him.. I talked them but they didn't agree.. family told me u have to choose one he or they... I tried to convince him ..I have no choice to leave my family.. please understand.. But he told me if I gone he will be no more he can't live without me.i told truth ..I ask to let me go ..he did not accept..i told lie also my father is sick please let me go..but he gave me punishment for my lie forced me to do nu## video call.i cried he also cried but he wants to punish me...6 months I tried and tried..we both cried ...it all was so toxic we can't sleep always fight he wants whatever the situation is I should have to be with him..also threatened me for suicide.. every day ..I begged him let me go..I can't live like this forcefully..I know he loves me ..but I can't handle this .he was also in depression can't able to sleep...If I ignored him ,he fights...after that video call that happened again n again because his problems n I tried to help with tears..but everyday the threanted me for suicide if i leave him..I told I will never marry to anyone, we will frnds but i can't stay in this relationship...but he wants to me..only me.. nothing else .I told his frnds n some family members for help but he abused me for everything I m responsible for his worst life..he told me I will be the only responsible person for his death...he tries much times however I stopped him...in video call he tried to threaten me he will do this he will do this...i always scared...he told me he will shoot himself to come to my city ..with this toxicity an fights one day I blocked him ,n told his frnd that talk to him( before it he told me many times if I will block him he will suicide) but I was so sacred so frustrated... After I blocked him 3 days ,he actually committed suicide ... N after that I know it's me the responsibile person for all this ..I don't want to live the person I loved he is no more because of me ..

The Airtel and Google Cloud partnership isn't just about big promises; it's about delivering tangible benefits that can transform your business. Let's explore how you can leverage this alliance to drive growth, innovation, and efficiency.

How Businesses Can Get Started

Embarking on your cloud journey with Airtel and Google Cloud is easier than you might think. Here's a roadmap to get you started:

1. Assess Your Needs: Start by evaluating your current infrastructure and identifying areas where cloud solutions could make a difference. Are you looking to improve data storage, streamline operations, or enhance customer experiences?
2. Consult with Experts: Reach out to Airtel's business team. They'll help you understand how the specific Google Cloud solutions align with your business goals.
3. Create a Plan: Work with Airtel's experts to develop a tailored plan for integrating cloud services into your business. This includes considering factors like scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness.
4. Empower Your Team: Take advantage of the training resources offered by Airtel and Google Cloud. Ensure your team is equipped to make the most of these new technologies.
5. Implement and Optimize: Roll out the solutions in phases, monitoring their performance and making adjustments as needed. Airtel's dedicated support team is there to assist you every step of the way.

Industries Poised for Transformation

The Airtel and Google Cloud partnership is a game-changer for businesses across various sectors:

• Telecommunications: Enhance connectivity, improve network performance, and deliver personalized customer experiences with cloud-based AI and analytics.
• Information Technology: Develop and deploy applications faster, manage data more efficiently, and leverage AI for innovative solutions.
• Retail: Optimize inventory management, personalize marketing campaigns, and gain valuable insights into customer behavior with data analytics.
• Healthcare: Securely store and analyze patient data, streamline operations, and explore telemedicine possibilities with cloud-based solutions.
• Financial Services: Improve risk management, fraud detection, and customer service with the power of AI and data analytics.

These are just a few examples. The potential applications are as vast as your imagination.

Use Cases: Geospatial & Voice Analytics in Action

Let's delve into some real-world scenarios to see how geospatial and voice analytics can revolutionize your business:
Geospatial Analytics:

• Retail Chain: Identify optimal locations for new stores based on foot traffic, demographics, and competitor analysis.
• Logistics Company: Optimize delivery routes, track shipments in real-time, and predict potential delays using geospatial data.
• Agriculture: Monitor crop health, predict yields, and optimize irrigation using satellite imagery and weather data.

Voice Analytics:

• Call Center: Analyze customer calls to identify pain points, improve agent performance, and enhance overall customer satisfaction.
• Market Research: Gather valuable insights into consumer preferences and opinions through voice surveys and interviews.
• Banking: Improve security and fraud detection by analyzing voice patterns for authentication.

Case Studies and Success Stories (Coming Soon) Check out the technology section of my blog Newspatron!

As the Airtel and Google Cloud partnership gains momentum, we anticipate a wealth of success stories from businesses across India. Stay tuned for real-world examples of how this collaboration is driving innovation and transforming industries.
Are you ready to embark on your cloud journey with Airtel and Google Cloud? The future of your business awaits. Read Full Blog post on Newspatron!

Director, Office of Procurement, Goddard Space Flight Center

GSFC-24-ES-12410883

Grade: ES-00

Goddard Space Flight Center

Serves as Director, Office of Procurement, for the Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). The Director reports directly to the NASA Assistant Administrator for Procurement and is a key member of the senior management team. Responsibilities include planning, budgeting, directing, executing, and coordinating procurement actions on behalf of the Office of Procurement.

Management Analyst (Direct Hire)

HQ-24-DE-12409378-CWO

Grade: GS-13/14

Headquarters, NASA

As a Management Analyst located in the Programmatic Team of Budget & Policy Integration Branch within Exploration Business Office, you will be responsible for executing and/or managing the full range of day-to-day administrative activities within the office including coordination of audit process, records management related to Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution products, management analysis, information technology and special projects.

Aerospace Engineer, AST, Environmental Control Systems

JSC-24-IMP-12407417-SC

Grade: GS-14/15

Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center

As a Senior Project Manager in the Space Suit and Crew Survival Systems Branch, you will formulate projects to develop space suit hardware and ground test systems; analyze requirements; develop estimates for resources and schedules; identify risks and mitigations; create and track schedules; lead teams across organizational boundaries; assess progress; and develop reports for stakeholders. You also will manage allocated resources to deliver project requirements on schedule and within budget.

Aerospace Engineer, AST, Automation and Robotics Systems

JSC-24-IMP-12406387-BP

Grade: GS-14

Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center

You will serve as the Gravity Offload Deputy Project Manager with the Dynamic Systems Test Branch in the Software, Robotics, and Simulation Division. You will be responsible for policies, procedures, operations schedules, resources, procurement, funding, and facility requirements for the branch Gravity Offload assets. You will lead a team of engineers and technicians in the development, testing, and operation of STAR, ARGOS, and AX3S and pursue opportunities for collaboration and funding.

General Engineer, AST, Engineering Program Management (Direct Hire)

ARC-24-DE-12409981-BP

Grade: GS-14

Ames Research Center

You will serve as a Program Manager in the Bioengineering Branch at Ames Research Center providing engineering and scientific expertise to the Branch Chief in the management and direction of life support and synthetic biology projects aimed to achieve sustainable human presence beyond low earth orbit. Responsibilities include helping with setting strategic direction of the branch, ensuring branch and facility safety and space planning, and contract management.

Assistant Administrator for Protective Services

HQ-24-ES-12410685

Grade: ES-00

Headquarters, NASA

Reporting to the Associate Administrator of NASA's Mission Support Directorate, the Assistant Administrator for the Office of Protective Services provides NASA-wide executive and functional leadership, policy formulation, oversight, guidance, coordination, and advocacy for protective services programs including security, fire protection, emergency preparedness planning and response, and programmatic counterintelligence/counterterrorism (CI/CT) operations, processes, functions, and activities.

Computer Engineer, AST, Data Systems

GRC-24-IMP-12408735-BP

Grade: GS-14

John Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field

As a Computer Engineer in the Management Support and Integration Office, Research and Engineering Directorate, you will serve as the Directorate Cybersecurity Lead. You will be responsible for coordinating, monitoring, and maintaining surveillance over Information Technology/Operational Technology (IT/OT) systems and cybersecurity posture to support critical technical capabilities for aerospace research such as power, propulsion, materials, and space communications.

Procurement Analyst (Direct Hire)

MSFC-24-DE-12408734-LC

Grade: GS-14

George C. Marshall Space Flight Center

As a Senior Procurement Analyst with the Marshall Space Flight Center's Office of Procurement, you will be responsible for assisting in planning the overall approach to meet program objectives for procuring a variety of complex requirements, reviews and advises on complex and/or diversified supplies, services, and/or equipment. Serves as principal business advisor to a wide range of customers. Participates in special projects and initiatives and performs special assignments.

Information Technology Specialist

GSFC-24-IMP-12402912-JRC

Grade: GS-15

Goddard Space Flight Center

You will serve as the Human Spaceflight (HSF) liaison between NASA's Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) mission partners and NASA Communications (NASCOM) to modernize policies, procedures, schedules, resources, and security of the networks that support SCaN and their customers, manage expectations, improve relationships and collaborate with technical teams. You will lead a team of highly skilled specialists in integrating, operating, securing, and planning of mission networks.

Director, Human Resources

NASA-24-ES-12395540

Grade: ES-00

National Aeronautics and Space Administration - Agency Wide

Serves as Director, Human Resources, at a Center Human Resources Office. The incumbent is a key member of the Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer Enterprise Leadership Team and serves as principal senior advisor to the Center Director on all human capital matters. This announcement will be used to fill two vacancies - one at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) and one at Kennedy Space Center. The MSFC selection will serve as the Human Resources Director for MSFC and Stennis Space Center.

Industrial Hygienist

SSC-24-IMP-12405883-CC

Grade: GS-14

John C. Stennis Space Center

Serves as the Occupational Health Officer for Stennis Space Center (SSC) in the Environmental and Health Services Office, responsible for performing a variety of professional and scientific work in industrial hygiene, health physics and occupational health functions. You will anticipate health hazards; recommend preventive measures and prescribe procedures to eliminate, reduce or abate occupational health hazards in the working environment and ensure conformance regulations.

Supervisory Contract Specialist (Direct Hire)

HQ-24-DE-12415404-CB

Grade: GS-15

National Aeronautics and Space Administration - Agency Wide

The NASA Office of Procurement seeks Supervisory Contract Specialists to plan, direct and supervise office activities including all pre and post award aspects of the acquisition program. These positions will be responsible for leading assigned activities at one of the listed NASA locations. Provides strategic direction for a diverse group of contracts and agreements for commercial and non-commercial goods and services, while maintaining strong communications and high quality products.

Realty Specialist

HQ-24-DE-12409596-JN

Grade: GS-13/14

Headquarters, NASA

As a Realty Specialist within the Real Estate Branch, Facilities and Real Estate Division, Office of Strategic Infrastructure, NASA Headquarters, you will manage, plan, organize, and coordinate NASA real estate transactions across the Agency. You will be responsible for supporting and leading real estate transactions through various real estate in- and out-grant instruments to include leases, Enhanced Use Leases, easements, licenses, and permits.

Contract Specialist (Direct Hire)

HQ-24-DE-12409898-LC

Grade: GS-14

National Aeronautics and Space Administration - Agency Wide

The NASA Office of Procurement seeks Senior Contract Specialists to perform procurement planning, negotiation, and contract administration in support of NASA programs. The Office of Procurement is structured to provide support to our mission partners regardless of location. This announcement may fill any of NASA Office of Procurement positions.

Lead Contract Specialist (Direct Hire)

HQ-24-DE-12409914-LC

Grade: GS-14

National Aeronautics and Space Administration - Agency Wide

NASA's Office of Procurement is seeking highly skilled individuals to serve as Lead Contract Specialists for a variety of complex cost reimbursable and fixed price, multi-year contracts, including secondary administration. This announcement may fill any of NASA Office of Procurement positions.

Supervisory Contract Specialist (Direct Hire)

HQ-24-DE-12416506-CB

Grade: GS-14

National Aeronautics and Space Administration - Agency Wide

The NASA Office of Procurement seeks Supervisory Contract Specialists to plan, direct and supervise office activities including all pre and post award aspects of the acquisition program. These positions will be responsible for leading assigned activities at one of the listed NASA locations. Provides strategic direction for a diverse group of contracts and agreements for commercial and non-commercial goods and services, while maintaining strong communications and high quality products.

Hi everybody, please bare with me as English isn't my first language and this is gonna be a long read.
My (F27) partner (M30) have been together for almost 5 years. When first dating we discussed a lot stuff like do's and don'ts, one of those was pornography.
He told me he (almost) never watched pornography. When asked why he told me it just wasn't really his thing and usually would pleasure himself in the shower (quick n easy).
A year into the relationship I saw he had some nude pictures on his phone, which he eventually deleted.
Today I found he has thousands and thousands of nude pictures on his laptop which go back years..(2016-2018). This laptop was bought in August 2023 and is connected to some kind of server he saves some of his files on.
I feel betrayed honestly. I don't know what to do.. bring it up? Leave it be? We're already in couples therapy because he basically abused me multiple times. About 2 years ago we were already struggling in our relationship mainly because he was never home, and when he was home he would game etc. Eventually he started waking me up for intimacy by touching me in private areas. After 2 times of that happening I told him that I didn't like it (seeing our relationship and communication were in serious trouble), and asked if he could stop initiating intimacy like that. I told him that I would very much like to grow back closer to each other, but that we both had to work on that and our communication/trust.
Not even 2 days later he did it again, and once again I had a conversation with him where I told him how it made me feel used. He promised to not do it again. He did though, multiple times and we had multiple fights over it. I slept for months on the couch until I had enough money saved to buy myself a bed for in the spare room.
Before we agreed to going to therapy I told him he would have to agree on not touching me in any way since the trust was gone and we had to basically "date all over again". He agreed, but a few days later he spanked me on my ass when walking by, made sexual jokes etc and then I found a piece of my clothing dirty.. he had used it to clean himself after having fun because and I quote "I didn't have anything else" note; there were multiple different things laying around he couldve used, or he couldve gotten up and walked 10 steps to the bathroom.
We had our first therapy session yesterday.. which we had a fight about right after because I told him that I didn't appreciate him not bringing up the abuse in the therapy session and leaving it up to me. (The only problem he had told the therapist was communication).
What do I do? Should I confront him about the pictures and if so, how?
TL;DR: my partner of 5 years has his laptop full of nudes while we already discussed that its not okay and we have issues & couples counceling already.. Should I confront him and if so, how?

For many Indians, the allure of a new life abroad, brimming with opportunity and a different cultural landscape, is a powerful motivator. Canada and Australia have emerged as top contenders for Indian immigrants, each offering distinct advantages and considerations. At Adric Immigration Consultants in Bangalore, we’re dedicated to guiding you through the intricacies of immigration and helping you choose the destination that best aligns with your aspirations. Australia immigration consultancy
.
This blog post delves into a comprehensive comparison of Canada and Australia, providing insights into factors critical for Indian immigrants to consider:
Setting the Stage: A Glimpse into Canada and Australia
Canada:

• Land of Opportunity: Canada boasts a multicultural society, robust economy, and universal healthcare, making it a welcoming environment for newcomers.
• Official Languages: English and French. Proficiency in either language enhances your employability prospects.
• Federal Skilled Worker Program (Express Entry): This point-based system prioritizes skilled workers with experience in professions in demand.

Australia:

• Sunshine and Opportunity: Australia offers a vibrant lifestyle, strong job market, and a focus on innovation.
• Multicultural Hub: Similar to Canada, Australia embraces diversity and welcomes immigrants from various backgrounds.
• Skilled Migration Visa Program: This program caters to skilled professionals with qualifications and experience aligned with Australia’s economic needs.

Choosing Between Canada and Australia:
The ideal destination ultimately depends on your individual priorities, career goals, and lifestyle preferences. Let’s explore some key factors to consider:
1. Immigration Programs & Eligibility:
Canada:

• Express Entry System: This point-based system assigns points based on factors like work experience, education, language skills, and age. A high score increases your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): These programs offer expedited pathways to permanent residency, with each province having specific eligibility criteria and nomination streams.

Australia:

• Skilled Migration Visa Program: This program utilizes a points system similar to Canada’s Express Entry, awarding points for factors like skills, qualifications, and work experience.
• State Nomination Streams: Similar to Canada’s PNP, Australian states and territories offer nomination programs with specific eligibility requirements and occupations in demand within their jurisdiction.

For Indian Applicants:
Both Canada and Australia offer pathways for skilled Indian professionals with in-demand qualifications and work experience. Assessing your eligibility for specific programs through professional guidance from Adric Immigration Consultants can significantly streamline your immigration journey.
2. Job Market and Employment Opportunities:
Canada:

• Strong Demand for Skilled Workers: Canada faces labor shortages in various sectors, creating opportunities for skilled Indian professionals in areas like IT, engineering, healthcare, and trades.
• Focus on Innovation: The Canadian government actively supports innovation and entrepreneurship, creating a dynamic environment for skilled professionals.

Australia:

• Growing Economy: Australia boasts a robust economy with a growing demand for skilled workers in sectors like mining, engineering, healthcare, and construction.
• High Wages: Australia generally offers higher average salaries compared to Canada, making it an attractive option for financially motivated applicants.

Choosing the Right Fit:
While both countries offer promising job markets, consider your skillset and career aspirations. Research in-demand occupations in each country to identify the destination that aligns best with your professional goals.
3. Cost of Living and Lifestyle:
Canada:

• Moderate Cost of Living: The overall cost of living in Canada can be slightly lower compared to Australia, especially in major cities.
• Four Distinct Seasons: Canada experiences all four seasons, with cold winters that might require adjustments for some Indian immigrants.

Australia:

• Coastal Lifestyle: Australia offers a laid-back coastal lifestyle with a focus on outdoor activities and a warm climate.
• Higher Cost of Living: Major Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne generally have a higher cost of living compared to Canadian counterparts.

Finding the Perfect Balance:
Consider your financial situation and lifestyle preferences. Canada offers a more affordable cost of living, while Australia provides a warmer climate and a relaxed way of life.
4. Education System and Family Considerations:
Canada:

• World-Class Education: Canada boasts a well-regarded public education system with affordable tuition fees for permanent residents.
• Family Reunification Programs: Canada offers streamlined processes for sponsoring family members for permanent residency.

Australia:

• High-Quality Education: Australia has a strong education system with renowned universities attractive for Indian students seeking higher education opportunities.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Australia offers a family-oriented environment with a strong focus

4. Education System and Family Considerations (continued)

• Family-Friendly Environment: Australia offers a family-oriented environment with a strong focus on social security and benefits for families.

Important Considerations:
If you have children or plan to start a family, both Canada and Australia offer excellent education systems and support for families. Canada might be a better choice for affordability, while Australia might appeal to those seeking a warmer climate and strong social security benefits.
5. Settlement and Integration:
Canada:

• Multicultural Mosaic: Canada prides itself on its multicultural identity, making it easier for Indian immigrants to integrate and feel welcome.
• Large Indian Diaspora: A significant Indian population already resides in Canada, offering established support networks for newcomers.

Australia:

• Welcoming Environment: Australia embraces diversity and offers various resources to help immigrants settle and integrate.
• Strong Community Support: Indian communities are thriving in major Australian cities, providing support and familiarity for newcomers.

Building a New Life:
Both Canada and Australia offer welcoming environments for Indian immigrants. Canada allows for easier integration due to existing cultural similarities and a larger Indian diaspora, while Australia offers a vibrant multicultural environment with strong support networks for newcomers.
Conclusion: Start Your Immigration Journey
The decision to immigrate is a momentous one. By carefully considering the factors explored above, you can determine whether Canada or Australia aligns more effectively with your individual circumstances and aspirations.
Partnering with Adric Immigration Consultants:
At Adric Immigration Consultants in Bangalore, we understand the complexities of navigating the immigration process. Our team of experts can guide you through every step, from assessing your eligibility for various programs to preparing a strong application and providing interview coaching.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you transform your dream of living and working in Canada or Australia into a reality. Together, we can ensure you make an informed decision and embark on a successful immigration journey.

Hello.
I apologise in advance for this rather unusual, weird and maybe even triggering question, but I hope somebody will be able to provide me with an answer. I started vaping about year and a half ago, firstly it was just social vaping, but it grew into kind of a habit of calming my nerves and anxiety when things got a bit stressful. I know, i know, there are waaaaay "better and healthier" ways to cope with stress. Not so long ago i started to get hyper focused on my few spider veins, that i have on my legs, and I've been trying to manifest them away. And in one of my anxiety moments, when i started searching online how can i treat and eliminate spidevaricose veins naturally or with the power of my mind, there were few articles that wrote, that vaping and smoking are causing them. I wanted to sweep that information away, for the sake of successful manifestation, but they stuck with me and i started noticing more and more of them.
What I would like to know is - if i assume or harden my belief - and i know the following may sound quite ridiculous to some - that vaping is NOT causing me those problems with veins (or any health problems in general) and that I CAN heal them with the power of my mind, will this fact manifest and will spider veins go away?
Enormous thank you in advance, as well as apologies if i triggered anyone with my question.

Backstory, my older sister 29 was married to the most AMAZING man, let call him Chase. At the end of 2022 start of 2023 Chase raised speculation that my sister was sleeping or seeing someone at the state prison she worked at. My sister, let’s call her Sarah, denied this. Chase and Sarah went through a rough time, but it seemed to get better, they ended up becoming pregnant with their second child due later in 2023, but ended up separating before child was born. Chase tried everything in his power to make it work, but my sister just didn’t love him anymore and never even showed my sadness over this separation. Chase has been an Outstanding dad to their 2 kids, and they are great at con parenting. He is always a part of the family as the father of my sisters children.
My sister has been talking about quitting her job, at the prison. Everyone was happy to hear this, as we felt that job just changed her and the hours were ridiculous, and on Sunday she said she probably wasn’t going back to work and wasn’t going to show up Monday. Well today, (Tuesday). She sends me a message and said this is my new boyfriend. I immediately asked for details and she said she would call me and send me a few pictures, great, I’ll support it. Then she tells me that she met him though work, they worked together but he just never got to go home. I started calling, she finally answered and confirmed that she was dating an inmate. Then said he was released on Monday. (No wonder she quit her job). I was a little in shock, but she said he served his 10 year sentence for aggravated home and theft robbery, I also found out he has multiple warrants out, and she told me he used to be a gang member.
My concern is for her two kids one under 6 and one under 1. Maybe this man is changed, but I don’t think 1 day out of prison can show that. Apparently this has been going on for for a while considering he “paid” for her maternity leave, her ex husband chase noticed she was getting thousands sent to her on cashapp, and she put this large down payment on a car, my dad did the financing and was really curious to where that came from, because she always talks about not having money and has my mother paying for things.
She proceeds to tell me how great his family his, that they are super big Christians, and he is a new man, etc. obviously he was affiliated with something if he could send thousands of dollars while in prison. I told her that I hope she waits before he is around the kids, but I have a feeling she will not. And I didn’t think it was smart to date someone who has not been a part of the real world in 10 years. He is going to face his own obstacles and temptation of going back to a lifestyle he was once in. I told her I didn’t want to meet him, and I may reconsider after I have more information on how he is living a better life. But I just don’t support this choice. She seemed upset, asked me not to tell our dad. I immediately called my dad to tell him. ONLY because he needs some time to process this, or he will loose his shit on her. So I know she will be mad when she finds out. I think she likes the money and “attention” she is getting from this man, and is ignorant to what danger she is potentially putting her kids in if he is still affiliated with any gangs. The only things she could say to back how he changed was about how great his family is, to which I told her that his family can be great, but he is only responsible for his actions and his own reputation, and I do not have to trust him or be around him. My parents are divorced, so when I called my mom who knew, she fears that if she doesn’t try to support this then my Sarah will not allow her to see he me grandchildren, and will not keep her in the loop. I told my mom that I will not be around this, as I do not think she is thinking of the children or has put much logical thought into any of it. She is VERY easily influenced, and I fear what she will get involved in. If she wants to keep the kids from me, I will see them through their father Chase.
My sister texted me and asked not to judge him for his past. To which I replied that I am not judging him for his 1 day of freedom either. I said something to her about the money, and asked is she put into any thought on how this could reflect in a custody battle considering he was sending her money at the prison she worked for, while an employee for the state prison, and her ex has proof. Told her that I love her, but I don’t think this was smart to jump into and I will not support it. AITA? Or any advice to be given here?

Pleasantly surprised by how much I liked this one. The storyline is essentially “rich kids beat up on poor kids” a lot, so it’s pandering to the (now insufferable) “eat the rich” bandwagon that has gotten pretty extreme on some fringes, so I was a bit wary of it. However, I would be not at all surprised to hear that it won Best Musical.
The set: Pretty cool. They entire thing appears to take place in a junkyard, with a car that stays onstage the entire time. At times the audience was asked to imagine that the car was a bed or other furniture. When they were at a drive in, they just lifted the hood and put a sign that said “concession stand.” The only time that I was confused was when they wanted to portray someone in a hospital, they did it by just putting boards on top of stacked tires. I was confused about where we were. Since it was someone who was in trouble with the law, I thought that they might have been taking care of him in someones shed or something. You were supposed to understand it was a hospital by his clothing I guess, but that wasn’t clear enough for me until later dialogue. Also, the stage was covered with faux gravel. Definitely a cool effect, but I wondered if the front row was just a big splash zone. Also most of the actors were wearing pants, but not all! The spin on the knees…ouch.
Choreo: They absolutely deserved their nom here. There are a lot of fight scenes, which I am typically not a fan of, but they did a great job. I don’t know if I would ever describe a fight scene as beautiful but here we are. They were masterfully choreographed, and tight. Some of the other dance scenes were innovative and interesting, particularly the one with boards spinning around in the church. I can’t overstate how excellent I thought it was. The rumble itself was also a piece of choreographic art, and the entire cast was in lockstep during it. It was well done. I will say, one moment during the rumble reminded me powerfully of the apex of the Sleep No More orgy. Let me know if anyone else thought same or if I’m just nuts.
Lighting: I would not be surprised if they win lighting, though I haven’t seen Illinoise. It was absolutely a strong part of the storytelling, especially with the fighting/blackout scenes. I loved when they let you know you were at train tracks, with no change to the set, but a spotlight ripped across the stage and train sound effects. It was a joy to observe how they used lighting.
Score There is one moment in Great Expectations that much of the greasers come on with absolutely spine-tingling harmonies. My first thought was “this is why you go to a live show”. That moment was simply delicious, and it is very much worth seeing live. It’s hard to imagine that the moment could hit you like that on a recorded piece of media. That said, I did not walk out of there with any particular desire to hear any of the songs again. Even the “great expectations” reprise disappointed me - they just sang “great expectations” over and over again and I deeply wanted them to have some kind of impactful line in there instead. Given how powerful the rest of the show is, I’m probably missing out. If people want to tell me what their favorite songs are from that show, I’ll give it a listen.
Costumes: Fine, not much to say here.
Book: Fine? I was neither impressed nor disappointed, and I didn’t notice it while I was watching the show, so probably fine. I wished that the older brother character had been a little stronger (or at least I wish they’d punched it a bit more when he showed up at the rumble, because that was a pivotal moment for that character). I also wasn’t invested in Dallas’s arc. given recent politics, I did think it wise for them to for change his suicide to “jumping in front of a train” instead of “death by cop”, as it was in the novel. These are sort of nitpicks though. I wasn’t a fan of the narration, but it grew on me, especially the way it was used during the fight scenes.
Vocals: The person who made me sit up in my seat was Jason Schmidt/Darrel Curtis. I remember feeling meh on the lead, Brody Grant.
Set, but with spoilers. Wow! I was beyond surprised to see all of that fire on stage. That was raw and powerful. I was later a bit less surprised to see the rain during the rumble (If they are doing that kind of pyrotechnics they are probably required to have a big sprinkler, right?). I loved the effect of the rain during the rumble. At some point, I lost track of who was a greaser and who was a Soc because it got harder to tell in the dim and the rain. I think that was probably the point. Anyway, this definitely meets the criteria of a spectacle, and I would be happy to send broadway first-timers here.
Bechdel test?: Haahhahaha no.
Did I think about it a lot after?: I’ve started evaluating shows this way since A Slave Play and Lempicka, both of which I thought about and talked about a lot. It’s not a show that I am yearning to see again, and it didn’t bring up anything for my mind to chew on later.
Overall I would consider it one of the stronger shows this season, and it’s on my recommendation list for the “what should I see” posts. I’m glad I saw it, but I’m not super interested in seeing it again (if I see a show and love it, I drag my theater-tolerating fiance there). My fiance will probably not see this one. Probably neither here nor there - do with that what you will.

I'm just wondering if there is anyway to play the game with out the dlc unlocks. Me and my friends grabbed it on sale but when we are starting the game we already have helicopters unlocked through the rebels? I'm assuming that's a dlc or something because the skill clearly shows the helicopters being unlocked at power 3. We Wanted to play from scratch with out having to self limit ourselves. We also don't know how to self limit as we dont know what is a OP dlc unlock and what is supposed to be normal gear and skills.
On the same note we started with tons of resources and skill points ruining all sense of early game progression I'm guessing. Like why am i collecting 50 resources here and there when I have over 25k.