https://uk.pcpartpicker.com/list/wfwVKX
-Ryzen 7 7800x3D -Artic liquid Freezer III A-RGB -Gigabyte B650 AORUS Elite AX ATX AM5 Motherboard
-Lexar Thor OC 32 GB DDR5 Memory -KingSpec XG7000 Solid State Drive -Gigabyte Windforce V2 Geforce RTX 4080 Super -NZXT H6 Flow Case
-NZXT C1200 1200W Power
I am wanting to only use the PC for gaming
Is this a good gaming PC or should I change any of the parts? I've never built a PC before, I will need to buy thermal paste right?
Thank you for the help

[PCPartPicker Part List](https://pcpartpicker.com/list/nY8WRK)
Budget: $2600 USD
Budget has to be with tax as well. I’m planning on playing games and making an occasional video. I already have all necessary peripherals or storage since I’m upgrading. Is there anything I could change about the pc part list? using 100% of the budget is not necessary and is not preferred. Already bought the GPU
TypeItemPrice
:----:----:----
**CPU** [AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D 4.2 GHz 8-Core Processor](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/3hyH99/amd-ryzen-7-7800x3d-42-ghz-8-core-processor-100-100000910wof) $305.64 @ Amazon
**CPU Cooler** [Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE 66.17 CFM CPU Cooler](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/hYxRsY/thermalright-peerless-assassin-120-se-6617-cfm-cpu-cooler-pa120-se-d3) $37.21 @ Amazon
**Motherboard** [Asus ROG STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI ATX AM5 Motherboard](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/Gjt9TW/asus-rog-strix-b650-a-gaming-wifi-atx-am5-motherboard-rog-strix-b650-a-gaming-wifi) $250.78 @ Amazon
**Memory** [G.Skill Flare X5 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6000 CL30 Memory](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/LBstt6/gskill-flare-x5-32-gb-2-x-16-gb-ddr5-6000-cl30-memory-f5-6000j3038f16gx2-fx5) $115.23 @ Amazon
**Storage** [SanDisk SSD PLUS 1 TB 2.5" Solid State Drive](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/ffbwrH/sandisk-ssd-plus-1-tb-25-solid-state-drive-sdssda-1t00-g26) Purchased For $0.00
**Storage** [Crucial P3 1 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 3.0 X4 NVME Solid State Drive](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/sw4Ycf/crucial-p3-1-tb-m2-2280-nvme-solid-state-drive-ct1000p3ssd8) Purchased For $0.00
**Video Card** [NVIDIA Founders Edition GeForce RTX 4080 SUPER 16 GB Video Card](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/9crqqs/nvidia-founders-edition-geforce-rtx-4080-super-16-gb-video-card-900-1g136-2555-000) Purchased For $1096.40
**Case** [HYTE Y60 ATX Mid Tower Case](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/RLxRsY/hyte-y60-atx-mid-tower-case-cs-hyte-y60-br) $197.54 @ B&H
**Power Supply** [Thermaltake Toughpower GF3 TT Premium 850 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular ATX Power Supply](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/phVmP6/thermaltake-toughpower-gf3-tt-premium-850-w-80-gold-certified-fully-modular-atx-power-supply-ps-tpd-0850fnfagu-4) $111.95 @ Amazon
**Case Fan** [ARCTIC P12 56.3 CFM 120 mm Fan](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/68WfrH/arctic-p12-563-cfm-120-mm-fan-acfan00120a) $9.87 @ Amazon
**Case Fan** [ARCTIC P12 PST 56.3 CFM 120 mm Fans 5-Pack](https://pcpartpicker.com/product/LmCFf7/arctic-p12-pst-563-cfm-120-mm-fans-5-pack-acfan00137a) $38.40 @ Amazon
*Prices include shipping, taxes, rebates, and discounts*
**Total** **$2163.02**
Generated by [PCPartPicker](https://pcpartpicker.com) 2024-05-19 03:59 EDT-0400

When you had positive results - you don’t need to leave the sub completely. We encourage members to stay – but in a supportive role!

WHAT THIS THREAD IS FOR:

• This thread is to create a safe space for positive home pregnancy tests and beta results for active members of infertility, regardless of treatment type or status, to share their results with the community. Negative results can also be shared in the treatment thread; this is the only place to share positive or questionable results.
• This is absolutely the place to share/receive support for beta hell/limbo.
• We ask that you be mindful of people sharing difficult news in this thread and understand that it's not necessary to provide more than one positive update (a positive on an HPT, a beta rise your clinic finds acceptable, etc.), regardless of your nerves. Most North American clinics will do two betas, and the next step is an ultrasound. Other countries don't do betas.
• Post beta, you can share only bad news, not good or even neutral news. Ultrasound updates may not be shared here unless the results are medically questionable (low fetal HR, empty gestational sac, situations where a doctor has told you to brace for loss). Please keep in mind that this sub only discusses the process of getting to pregnancy and dealing with loss and limbo. Discussion of pregnancy anxieties and general fear of loss is not appropriate here and is best suited to a pregnancy sub like infertilitybabies.
• Symptoms cannot be discussed in this thread. If you have actual reason for concern such as low betas or a questionable ultrasound, that can be discussed in this thread. Spotting or a lack of symptoms doesn't necessarily mean anything, and we ask you take those anxieties to a pregnancy sub.

WHAT IS NOT ALLOWED – comments that do this will be removed

• No drive-by posts. You may only post here if you have participated in the sub’s daily threads before. If you have not your comment on this thread will be removed without comment. If you used to be an active member, but your last comment was a post in results (meaning you are returning from success to tell us about another success), we consider your post a drive-by.
• No ultrasound details (HR, size, twins, singleton etc.) – questionable results are exempt from this
• Do not make a new comment within the same thread – update your previous comment
• It's to share your results not to "say goodbye" or some kind of victory lap or about giving/wanting ~hope~.
• We know good news after infertility and/or loss is hard to accept, and infertilitybabies is a safe space to discuss your anxieties around early pregnancy. This thread is NOT the right place to work out those feelings - it's for results only or support when in beta hell/potential loss limbo.
• Hunger games results, PGT results, etc.
• Questions about early pregnancy that are not directly related to loss signs.
• Comments about pregnancy symptoms (sore breasts, nausea, etc).
• Links to pictures of HPTs (use /TFABlineporn).
• Responding “Thank You!” to every well wisher. Use your best discretion as some comments do necessitate a response, however responding to every person makes this post far too large.

HELPFUL INFO

Click 'view table' on mobile:

For a comprehensive Beta database, check out http://www.betabase.info/ for more information on beta based on DPO (DPO = days post transfer + 3, or 5 day embryo; DPO = Days post Insemination for IUI).
Further info: Human chorionic gonadotropin as a predictor of outcome in assisted reproductive technology pregnancies00512-9/fulltext)
Radiopaedia on Fetal bradycardia
Normal Ranges of Embryonic Length, Embryonic Heart Rate PDF!

You may be interested in posting at /whatworkedforme.
You are always encouraged to share your non-pregnancy-related infertility experiences with people asking questions on the sub and continue to support other community members here on infertility

I finish downloading the game. It opens fine, Has a landing screen. I go to join server. I want official. No officials without at least one mod (this dear jane thing). But can I install it from the point of it telling me I need it? Nope, trying takes me to page that is identical to the install page I would eventually find except that it lacks an install button. An install page that I have to reach through the landing page, which it seems I have to close and reopen the client to get to, as there is no readily apparent way to back out to that initial page. Once I'm actually in the mods list.
Searching seems to have little to nothing to do with whole phrase or even whole word matching. Rather it seems to narrow a search alphabetically one letter at a time and if you get ahead of it's ability to think it doesn't know what you want and shows you random results or no results at all. So I type d (lowercase mind you because it automatically throws out all results if I type upper case even though that exactly matches the result)...e...a... Ah there it pops up. I click install. It waits a ridiculously long time to download 272.89.MB before failing. I click it again, and again, and again. Fails each time. I restart client. I restart machine. Same result. Down speed connection is fine,. there's plenty of storage space.
Okay, so maybe a manual install. Those are generally better anyway. But where to extract to? I know what drive the game is on. But every googling of what directory to extract to yields a path I simply don't have or can't find. I know where the game is located. I'm looking through every folder and sub folder one by one. Can't find anything that indicates that's where the mod should extract to...
I'm stuck. No idea what to do here. I expected the game itself to be unoptimized. I didn't think I'd have to learn game development just to play it. Glad the game was gifted or I might be fuming right now instead of just being annoyed and confused. But can anyone tell me what to actually do here to get this up and running?

Here is pcpartpicker link if you need: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/zfYcn6
CPU - AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D 4.2 GHz 8-Core Processor
CPU Cooler - Deepcool LS720 SE 85.85 CFM Liquid CPU Cooler
Motherboard - Gigabyte B650M GAMING X AX Micro ATX AM5 Motherboard
Memory - ADATA XPG Lancer Blade RGB 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6000 CL30 Memory
Storage - Western Digital Blue SN580 2 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 4.0 X4 NVME Solid State Drive
GPU - Zotac GAMING Trinity GeForce RTX 4080 SUPER 16 GB Video Card
Case - Lian Li O11 Dynamic Mini ATX Mid Tower Case
Power Supply - EVGA SuperNOVA 850 GM 850 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular SFX Power Supply
Case Fan - Deepcool FC120-3 IN 1 61.91 CFM 120 mm Fans 3-Pack

I'm just a software engineer who doesn't know a lot but kinda knows how to talk to ChatGPT and I thought some of the info I prompted might alleviate some people's worries. Everyone is calling FFIE a pump and dump, but it never occurred to anyone that it could have characteristics of a pump and dump because a lot of retail investors didn't hold like the rest of us. That's why it's important to stick together here!
ChatGPT below 👇
Based on the gathered information, here is a detailed analysis to determine whether FFIE’s stock movement on May 17, 2024, was a short squeeze, a pump and dump, or a combination of both:

Key Findings

Characteristics of a Short Squeeze:

• High Short Interest: FFIE had a short interest of approximately 95% of its float, making it a prime candidate for a short squeeze.
• Coordinated Retail Activity: Retail investors on platforms like Reddit and Twitter coordinated buying efforts to force a short squeeze.
• Trading Volume Surge: There was a dramatic increase in trading volume, with over 445 million shares traded in a single day compared to the average of 41 million shares.

Characteristics of a Pump and Dump:

• Rapid Price Increase and Decline: The stock experienced a rapid rise followed by a sharp decline, typical of pump and dump schemes.
• Lack of Fundamental Support: The surge was not supported by significant positive news or improvements in company fundamentals.

Conclusion

Based on the evidence, it appears that the stock movement of FFIE on May 17, 2024, was predominantly driven by a retail investor-coordinated short squeeze.
However, elements of a pump and dump were also present, especially considering the rapid profit-taking and subsequent decline.

Detailed Analysis

Retail Investors and Short Squeeze:

• High Short Interest: The significant short interest in FFIE made it a target for a short squeeze.
• Coordinated Efforts: Retail investors used social media platforms to coordinate buying, similar to previous short squeeze events like GameStop.
• Price Surge: The price surged as short sellers were forced to cover their positions, driving the stock higher.

Pump and Dump Elements:

• Rapid Decline: The subsequent sharp decline after the surge indicates that some investors were likely taking profits quickly.
• Speculative Trading: The stock's movements were highly speculative, driven by hype and market manipulation tactics typical of pump and dump schemes.

Final Thoughts

While the primary driver appears to be a retail-driven short squeeze, the characteristics of rapid profit-taking and the lack of fundamental support suggest elements of a pump and dump. Therefore, FFIE’s stock movement on May 17, 2024, can be seen as a hybrid event involving both a short squeeze and pump and dump dynamics.

Current Status of FFIE and Potential for a Short Squeeze

Summary of Recent Activity

Faraday Future (FFIE) recently experienced a dramatic rise in stock price due to what appears to be a short squeeze. On May 17, 2024, the stock surged by over 367% during intraday trading before closing down 37.58% at $1.03. This significant volatility was driven by retail investors coordinating efforts on social media platforms to buy and hold the stock, targeting its high short interest.

Key Indicators of a Short Squeeze:

1. High Short Interest: FFIE had a short interest of approximately 95% of its float, with about 36.34 million shares shorted. This made it a prime target for a short squeeze, as identified by investors and analysts.
2. Coordinated Retail Activity: The surge was fueled by retail investors, particularly those influenced by figures like Roaring Kitty, who led the 2021 meme stock rallies. The coordinated buying efforts were aimed at forcing short sellers to cover their positions, driving the stock price up.
3. Unusually High Trading Volume: On May 17, FFIE's trading volume surged to over 445 million shares, compared to its average daily volume of 41 million shares. This spike in volume is a strong indicator of a short squeeze as short sellers were forced to buy shares to cover their positions.

Current Status:

• In Progress: Based on the ongoing high trading volume and continued interest from retail investors, FFIE appears to be in the midst of a short squeeze. The stock's price and volume fluctuations suggest that the squeeze is still active, with significant buying pressure from retail investors countered by profit-taking and short sellers re-entering the market.

When the Short Squeeze Might End:

• Price Stabilization or Decline: The short squeeze is likely to subside when the stock price stabilizes or begins to decline steadily, indicating that most short sellers have covered their positions.
• Decreased Trading Volume: A significant drop in trading volume back to normal levels will suggest reduced buying pressure and the end of the short squeeze.
• Reduction in Short Interest: Monitoring short interest reports for a notable decrease will confirm that the squeeze has ended as fewer shares remain shorted.

Conclusion:

FFIE's recent price movements indicate that a short squeeze is currently happening, driven by high retail investor activity and a substantial short interest. The situation remains volatile, and the short squeeze will likely continue until the factors driving the buying pressure diminish.

Current Status of FFIE Short Sellers

Short Interest and Recent Developments

As of the latest available data in early May 2024, Faraday Future (FFIE) has a short interest of approximately 85.71%, with about 36.34 million shares sold short. This indicates a high level of short interest, making the stock susceptible to a short squeeze.

Indicators of Short Sellers Covering

1. High Trading Volume:
   
   • On May 17, 2024, FFIE saw an extraordinarily high trading volume of over 445 million shares, compared to its average daily volume of about 41 million shares. This surge in volume is indicative of short sellers covering their positions amid the buying frenzy driven by retail investors.
2. Stock Price Movements:
   
   • FFIE experienced a dramatic price increase, up by as much as 380% during intraday trading before closing down 37.58% at $1.03. The initial surge followed by a sharp decline suggests significant short covering activity followed by profit-taking by retail investors and re-entry of short positions by hedge funds.
3. Days to Cover:
   
   • The "days to cover" ratio, which measures the time required for short sellers to cover their positions based on average daily trading volume, is currently 1 day for FFIE. A low days to cover ratio further supports the occurrence of a short squeeze as short sellers quickly buy back shares to close their positions.

Conclusion

Based on the current data, FFIE is still in the midst of significant short covering activity. The high trading volume and price volatility indicate that many short sellers have covered their positions, but the situation remains fluid with continued retail investor interest and hedge fund activity. Monitoring short interest reports in the coming weeks will provide further insights into the extent of short covering and whether the short squeeze is ongoing or subsiding.

So first things first, its pirated. I found it in an archive site. So there was an iso file and a fix to play it in windows xp when i installed it and played it there was no music just SFX but there was another folder that had the audio when i put the audio in the game folder nothing changed. But i found some answers on the internet. There was a folder called GAME in the iso file. I put the audio files in there and converted the iso file to bin and cue. i mounted the "cue" file in to a virtual cd drive and installed it. And it did install the audio files with it. But still no music. So does anybody have a solution for this?

The game used to work fine and then I moved it to a new SSD. Now during startup it gets to the Gearbox logo and then the application just closes, not even an error message. I've tried verifying game files, moving it between drives, even reinstalling the whole game. It still crashes in the same place everytime. Other games work absolutely fine on the SSD so I don't understand why I can't play at all. Please help.

So I am in late game and I'm the largest producer of cars with one of the highest SoLs in the world. If I do not trade any cars at all, Both engines and Automobiles would be at around the base price. But I am capable of exporting several thousand cars a week, to countries with which I have trade agreements. If I do this, the prices of cars on my market will increase to like 20% higher than base price.
Now here's my thought - since I am the largest producer of cars, higher car prices means that better wages and higher SoL for those in my country that work at Motor Industries (which is a lot of people, but by no means the majority of the population). But since I am also a large consumer of cars, this means a lot of people in my country who don't work at Motor Industries now cannot afford cars which would drive their SoL down.
How do I know how many cars to export, or if to export at all? Which outweighs the other?

I built my brother a PC, and installed BeamNG.drive on it using my own Steam account. I tested the game so that everything is running well, and then logged out of my Steam account and such.
However, despite my brother playing the game on their own Steam account on that PC, any mod they download from the repo appear on my PCs that use my Steam account.
I assume there’s some account ID in the game files that I just need to clear out, but would anyone know where? Thanks

Hey citizens,
I currently own the package Colonel LTI which I bought in 2012. Over time this has been upgraded to a Warden but only the Warden was a discounted Warbond, as this was a long time something I didn't know of.
I'm now playing with the idea of melting it and building a fresh ccu chain starting with the hornet.
The store is telling me, I would loose on buyback all the physical items from the pledge, like a star map, a ship shaped usb drive, cd with the soundtrack etc
That's a bit sad, as they are not really necessary to play the game, but would be still nice to have as this is something you can't acquire anymore.
Is there a possibility to reset the pledge back to the Hornet without loosing the stuff?

This is something I've been working on for a while, and I'm excited to be able to share it with other people who enjoy card creation.
I realize most people won't read most of this post, so I'll put the important parts first. I am grateful for and open to any feedback you have on individual card designs, mechanics, and set design!
This is my first time creating an entire custom set, but as someone who has long enjoyed and played Limited, my goal was to make a fully draftable set with archetypes for each color combination, the right distribution of cards at each color and rarity, etc.
The set, created with MSE, contains 285 cards (259 excluding basic lands and alternate printings) and 14 tokens.
This custom set is an adaptation of the Netflix anime "DOTA: Dragon's Blood" animated by Studio Mir. (Why this show? The color design, loose magic system, epic scale, and different factions in the show were perfect for adapting into cards. I acknowledge that some of my design choices might make less sense without knowledge of the show.)
The best way to view the cards is via this PDF (Google Drive), which includes all the cards in one place, sorted into the same categories listed below.
Alternatively, you can view each category by itself either on imgur or in Google Drive:

• Rares and Mythics: imgur, Google Drive
• Three-Color Sagas: imgur, Google Drive
• Three-Color Uncommons: imgur, Google Drive
• Two-Color Signpost Uncommons: imgur, Google Drive
• Commons and Uncommons (by color): imgur, Google Drive
• Lands (all rarities): imgur (nonbasics), imgur (basics), Google Drive (all)
• Alternate art special printings: imgur, Google Drive
• Tokens: imgur, Google Drive

You can also just find all 299 images, in alphabetical order, here: imgur, Google Drive.
The set is on PlaneSculptors so you can do draft/sealed with it there:
https://www.planesculptors.net/set/dota-dragons-blood-v3
A few more notes:

• While each color pair has a theme/mechanic (see below), I designed this set to support three-color decks. Each three-color combo has its own saga and signpost uncommon, and each loosely represents one of the factions from the show.
  
• I made this set according to the old set design format, i.e., the way draft was before play boosters and Murders at Karlov Manor. (Hence why I wanted to post the set before people forget too much about the way things used to be!)
  
• I did not think much about how these cards would interact with the rest of Magic, break other formats, etc., because my main goal was to make a draftable set. There were times I meticulously checked the power of my cards against historical precedent and times I intentionally pushed the boundaries of what Wizards usually makes. I'll be curious to know if anything is obviously and egregiously broken (besides the three versions of The Invoker).
  
• As of this post, none of the cards have the same name as real MTG cards, so you should be able to import them into Cockatrice without issue (Cockatrice package in Google Drive).
  
• The show I adapted is based on the game DOTA 2 by Valve. I have not played this game myself, so, with only a few exceptions, these cards solely represent the characters and events as portrayed in the show, not the game.
  

New mechanics:

• Mourn – you get special benefits if a permanent (often a creature) you control leaves the battlefield this turn.
• Assault – you get special benefits if (or whenever) damage has been dealt this turn. Often, these benefits apply to combat, so you need to deal damage before combat
• Command – activate useful abilities by tapping your own creatures
• (I also reused Convoke)

Color pairs archetypes:

• WU (Azorius): “Mourn” mechanic
• WB (Orzhov): “Command” mechanic
• WR (Boros): attacking. Simple aggro, with ways to remove or tap your opponent’s stuff. (Add U or B for evasion, G for poweramp.)
• WG (Selesnya): Convoke, tapping your creatures for mana.
• UB (Dimir): create tokens and make opponents discard. Pairs well with BR (sacrifice) and WB (Command)
• UR (Izzet): noncreature spells (not just instants/sorceries)
• UG (Simic): scrying and drawing extra cards
• BR (Rakdos): sacrificing things. Can be aggro (add W or G) or control (add U).
• BG (Golgari): likes it when stuff dies and when stuff is in graveyards.
• RG (Gruul): “Assault” mechanic

The mechanics (and the way I made the cards) primarily reflect the flavor of the show, which was one of my main goals.
If you want to read more about the set, see this PDF (Google Drive).
While the card designs are all mine, the art is all taken from the show and thus belongs to Netflix and Studio Mir. The names, events, etc. belong to Netflix and Valve.
I am very happy with the story and art I got to work with in making this set; some of my favorite art includes the special printings of Mirana, the Sun Ascendant and Temple Ruins; Tower Rebuilt; the special Treasure token; Draconic Confrontation; Moon Rupture; Remember; Astral Realm; all the sagas; and all the land, especially basics.

I Accepted a Job to Film on the Dark Web
Man, I am pumped to tell you chronically online content addicts my story. Wait is that too mean of an intro? Will this get taken down for harassment since I painted too accurate a picture of the people on this site? Sorry, everyone, I’m sure you all smell like an expensive bakery and have touched grass this morning. Anyway, I promise I have something interesting. It even involves the dark web you uncreative writers cream yourselves over! I mean, totally real people speaking about their strangely similar experiences. Okay, fine I’ll stop bullying you through the screen before you click off.
This all started when I was seven years old and my parents were killed in front of me in an anti-indigenous hate crime, but let's be real you don’t care. I’m just some annoying Cherokee kid with dead parents so I’ll skip to the good parts. I spent years in an orphanage, gradually becoming more interested in death and violence. As bad as it is, I went out of my way to expose myself to that content in the hopes of desensitizing myself. Which ended up working too well, since now I’m obsessed with causing and viewing pain, though I don’t find any joy in hurting myself.
I got adopted at twelve and after a few months of staying at my new family’s home on the reservation, I went with them to a state sweatier than the average Reddit user, California. Long story short, both of my caretakers, whom I referred to as Uncle and Auntie because they could never be my parents, died. Leaving me in the care of their older son, who I call cousin. I’m not stupid enough to give up any real names, so I’ll call him Brick, cause he’s as dumb as one. He was in his early 20s when he was tasked with taking care of me and is the world’s worst excuse for a babysitter.
I’m almost always alone at the apartment, with him only coming by to drop off supplies and stay for a few hours so the neighbors don’t get too worried. Unless I get in trouble at school, then he’d suddenly give a shit. It's useful because he doesn't about the gory stuff I look at, but some display of interest would be nice. Oh well, ninety percent of the population sucks so he’s just part of the majority. Now, with that said, you’ll be able to understand the perfect storm that led me here. During my time on the deep web, I found a particular website that caught my eye. They had new footage relatively consistently and they were the easiest for me to access since I didn't go too far into the dark web, especially with all the honey pots lying around.
I even bought a couple of files for myself to study and admire. One thing irritated me though, the cameraman. He was always sobbing, breathing, shaking, or some combination of those. It seriously killed the vibe of the killings. Something I commented on under many videos, often saying I would do a better job filming. A choice that in hindsight was me asking to end up in one of those recordings. I didn't think anything of it at the time. I was mostly the only one who commented but I was sure they wouldn't care. I was embarrassingly wrong.
I was staying up like usual, but it was past one AM on a school night, and back then that was a lot so I tried to sleep. Closing my eyes, tossing and turning, the works. I had just started drifting off when I heard the front door open. I remained calm but immediately found it weird since Brick never showed up this late. The thuds of the individual's feet grew louder as they got closer to my bedroom. I tried to convince myself it wasn't a stranger, especially since they got in with ease, but I knew that was wishful thinking.
They hummed as they opened my door. My dumbass had left it unlocked. I remained on my side, trying to look like I was asleep. They turned on the flashlight of their phone, shining it in my face. It was hard but I stayed still while they traced it over my features. I could tell they were smiling as they clicked their tongue.
“Heh, I knew it was a brat,” they whispered to themselves, pulling tangles out of my hair. Something I struggled not to groan from. They pulled up the hair over my ear and got so close spit got on my ear lobe.
“I know you’re awake kid,” they murmured, putting a blade to my neck. I let them grab my shoulder and move me onto my back, I knew how to fight but I wasn't about to take that big a risk with the position they had me in.
“You think you’re so cool saying you can do better than our guy.” they snickered, kneeling, their flashlight still shining in my face.
“Do you seriously believe that?” they questioned, moving the light away.
“Yeah, I do.” I stood my ground, they might have been intimidating but I wasn't gonna let that stop me from being honest.
“I wouldn't sound like I’m gonna piss myself every time it gets gory. I’m confident I could get better footage too, getting up close is something I’ve fantasized about.”
They clicked their tongue again and ran their finger over the bridge of my nose.
”Well, I know you’re a big fan of what we do, and you’re confidence makes me think you got something to back those claims up, so how’d you like a deal?”
I was surprised by how civil they were being aside from the touching and weapon against my throat.
“What kind of deal?” I asked, for all I knew this guy wanted me to lick their feet or some weird shit like that. They placed a finger underneath my eye, tracing a half moon with their nail.
“You have till this Friday to film a video of you killing an animal and put it on a flash drive that I’ll pick up here. If it impresses me and the crew we’ll hire ya with a handsome salary.” They began, moving their hand down to my cheek.
“But if you don't show, or it doesn't meet our standards, then I’m fucking up one of the parts of your face.” They warned, pinching my skin harshly.
“And if I say no to this deal?”
They put their hand over my mouth, scratching my lips.
“That’s cute, if you say no I’ll just slit your throat.” they grinned.
“Or rip it open with my teeth if you got a preference,” they smirked, before running their tongue across their sharp teeth.
“Okay, since I have no choice I’ll go with it, but I’m telling you now I can give you something way better than what you likely expect of me.” I prefaced, looking into their sunken eyes. They scratched my scalp, including the side of my head that was shaved.
“Good choice, I’ll be back to pick it up and if you're not here I’ll assume you don’t have the video. I genuinely wish you luck, because you’ll need it.” they removed the blade from my neck and walked away. I sat still for a few minutes in the dark, processing what had happened and wondering how they got into my apartment with such ease. I was confident I could blow their sniveling excuse of a cameraman out of the water, but I was worried about the people I was getting caught up with.
Sure, I had been on a lot of gore sites over the years but I was always just watching and occasionally commenting. Compared to most in the scene I wasn't much of a threat. I could defend myself and have contemplated killing for years but I hadn't murdered anyone or worse. Plus, I am part of way too many targeted groups to not be constantly at risk. Teenage, fem-leaning, two-spirit, indigenous kid with trauma? Yeah, I might as well be walking sign screaming “Hate crime me”.
So yeah, there was a lot to worry about. Regardless, I couldn't let that fear hold me back. I had a job to do and a group of sickos to appease. The next morning was rough, I got no sleep cause I’d spent all night brainstorming. I barely mustered the energy to change and drank straight mouthwash instead of brushing my teeth. Slogging onto the bus with drool on my cheek, I went to the back like usual. No one sat there cause, the seats were extra worn down, and I scared off anyone who attempted to with my active, rabies-infected bitch face. That day was different though.
I blanked on his name and where I knew him from, but I recognized his wavy hair and prominent curved nose. He glanced at each seat on the bus, before somehow settling on my area. He tried to give me space but ultimately seated himself beside me after realizing it was the only spot that didn't look like it would give him cancer. I glared at him as I did with everyone, but it didn't phase him.
“You know you could pick anywhere else right?” I murmured. He stared at the floor, then at me.
“I’m aware, but a few months ago I started a mission to sit on every part of this bus, and this is the last place.” he smiled, his lips softly curving at the sides.
“What’s the point of that?”
His mouth moved into a more neutral position, but his eyes kept smiling.
“I just thought it would be neat to see the same place from a bunch of different perspectives.” he took out his phone and snapped a photo from the point of view where he was sitting. Maybe my sleepiness made my bitch face less effective, cause he hadn't shown a hint of fear, which kind of annoyed me.
“That’s cool I guess, but I wouldn't do that if I were you. I’ve done some back here alone that would make your skin crawl.” in hindsight my attempt at unnerving him just made me sound like a pervert, which is probably why he held back laughter. Trying to hide a chuckle by clearing his throat.
“Hey, it's not my business what you do, no matter how Haram it is. It’s your life so that’s between you and whatever you believe in. Just don’t shake hands with me.” he joked, playfully putting his hands up. Strangely, I remembered his name at that moment.
“Oh shit, you’re Abdul! We have art together.” I sat up, haphazardly slamming my hand down on my leg.
“Uh yeah, I’ve seen some of your paintings, they’re pretty cool. I like the way you texture them, I’m trying to work on that.” he complimented, seeming more weirded out by my sudden energy than my accidental insinuation. I felt a little stupid for yelling his name but decided not to dwell on it.
“Thanks, you’re stuff is nice, and you’re good at shading.”
He stretched his arms while thanking me. We talked for a few more minutes, taking jabs at each other throughout. Turns out he was better at being an asshole than his artsy charismatic appearance made me think. The thing setting our insults apart being that you could tell he was a loving person underneath. It was the nicest conversation I had with anyone in a while. Though he could tell I was tired so he quieted down, letting me sleep, waking me when we got to school. We went our separate ways until the last two periods we shared. All that time, I spent my remaining energy plotting how I was going to handle the video. What I’d kill, record with, and how to dispose of the evidence. It was a lot to consider, but through three classes I devised a plan.
I’d find a stray around my apartment complex and take it out in my room. Record it on a portable camera since I broke the ones on my phone, no, I will not be answering how that happened. Then once I had my footage I’d put the body in a trash bag, throw it in the complex’s garbage, and clean the blood off my floor. It didn't seem like Brick would come by so he wasn't a factor I thought I’d have to consider. The plan was almost too easy, but I decided to believe in Occam’s razor. I got so lost in thought that by the time I reached Art, which was my second-to-last period, I didn't process that we were moving seats.
“She called your name,” Abdul reminded me. Our teacher placed us next to each other at our four-person table. The two girls sitting with us were already friends, so I didn't bother to say anything, but I was interested in talking to him more.
“So, what do you think of this assignment?” He shrugged, taking out his sketchbook.
“I’m not that good at drawing people, but the idea of combining two people’s faces into a portrait seems interesting. Any ideas on who you’ll pick?”
“Probably the members of the music duo Brain Tumor, they’re my favorite artists and they both look weird as hell.”
“Wow way to talk about your favorites, if that’s what you say about them I can‘t imagine what you have to say about me.” he joked, pulling up reference pictures.
“First, it’s not an insult, second I don’t have anything to say about you. Brain and Tumor have features and styles that make them stand out. Sure they’re ugly, but it just adds to their visual charm. Hot people are boring, there’s nothing to pick at.” I explained, unzipping my bag.
“Oh, so you’re saying you think I’m hot.”
His comment wasn’t serious but it kind of got to me.
“Shit, that’s not what I meant, I was trying to say you’re boring. All hot people are boring, but not all boring people are hot, okay?” I explained, flipping to a clean page.
“Alright, but if I’m so bland then why talk to me?”
I hesitated, contemplating how much of a dick I was gonna be.
“Because it means you probably need some spice in your life, which I can provide.”
He began sketching a head on his paper.
“I like spices, but I feel like you’re the kind of person to dump a cabinet’s worth onto me.”
I flicked my pencil over to his side of the desk, putting on a mocking grin.
“Aww, you scared I’m gonna get you into trouble?”
He picked up the pencil and started using it, putting his on my side.
“No, ‘cause I’m good at setting boundaries. I’m more concerned that you’ll get annoyed with how unafraid of you I am.”
I stared at him for a moment, I hadn't expected to hear that.
“Jeez, man you didn't have to read me like that.”
He shrugged, observing the red paint from past projects that lay on my pencil.
“It's not hard to figure out, just this morning you were trying to push me away on the bus. Lucky, or unlucky, for you I want you to have a friend and you seem like a fun person.”
“Wait are you saying I have no friends?” I squinted at him.
“Well, do you?”
I didn't answer.
“If your response is silence I suggest you take up my offer.”
I was stunned, to be honest. No one had offered to be my friend since 6th grade, and that didn't last long. Of course, I accepted it, but for the rest of the period, there was an awkwardness in my mind. As pathetic as it sounds I wasn't used to others genuinely enjoying my company like he did. Which was partly by design cause I get joy out of scaring people away, but still. I forgot how it felt to have conversations about normal things like art. He had such a nice smile too, usually when I see a grin I want to slap it off, but I liked his. His voice was also nice, it’s hard to describe what in particular but it was easy on the ears.
Okay, I’m starting to get off-topic. I’ll skip to the important part. Toward the end of class, he started talking about how he was interested in filmmaking and got a portable video camera as a gift at last year’s Eid. He didn't have it on him, but he showed me a picture.
“Heh, that’s funny, I bought the same one a month ago.” I pointed out.
“Yeah, it's a popular model, I’m still getting the hang of it though cause I’m so used to using my phone.”
“Well, maybe I could bring you over to my place or vice versa after school and I can help you out.” I suggested.
He smiled, putting his phone back in his pocket.
“I thought you said you’ve only had it for a month? You know I can always look up tutorials from trained professionals.” he reminded me with a notable smugness that I'd used with him before.
“Well those guys are stuffy and I’m a fast learner.”
He redirected his attention back to his page, picking his pencil up.
“Alright, I suggest we go somewhere public instead. You’re not exactly the kind of person I want to bring home to my parents right away. Plus they always need to meet my friends and their guardians before I hang out at their home.”
I gave an exaggerated sigh, stretching my back.
“Aw man, looks like we can’t get high in my murder pit during our first hangout.”
He didn't respond for a solid few seconds.
“Wait, you do know I'm joking right?”
He shrugged, the smile in his eyes appearing again.
“I mean, one of those things is a little less believable than the other.” he snickered, and I laughed with him.
We set up a time and a date, which is where I screwed myself. He ended up being busy with projects from his other classes and family which just left us with Friday, the same day I had to submit the video. Now, did I tell him I wouldn't be able to make it? No, of course not, because I decided to be stupid and even more overconfident. I said that I’d one hundred percent be able to hang out with him after school like I didn't have a mutilator who was going to drop by my place at an unknown time.
The rest of the day went over fine but that bad timing led me to feel like a dick later. When I got home I was able to write out my plan, even sketching a few specifics of what I’d do. It was more exciting than when I’d been brainstorming, but this is when the gravity of the situation began to set in. When I said I’d fantasized about killings I meant it. I mean my teddy with twenty-five stab wounds should say enough. Regardless this would be the first time real blood was on my hands.
It made me feel powerful, but a little afraid. I’ve heard stories of people thinking that it would be an awesome experience and then feeling like shit. I doubted I’d be one of those people but still. Plus, I didn't exactly trust the guy who gave me this job. There was a good chance that this whole situation was rigged and they’d kill me no matter how good the video was. Or worse turn me into the feds and expose my collection. Honestly, if that happened I’d probably eat a shot to avoid going to jail. Wait, can I say that on this platform? Okay to the mods, that was a joke, I want to live a long life. Ugh, I’m doing a terrible job of staying on track. The point is there was a lot up in the air despite it being a matter of life or death.
I knew I’d go through with it but it was still a lot less straightforward than it initially seemed. I wracked my brain to remember where most of the cats stayed and tried to come up with a good way to lure one without raising suspicion. This also proved harder than first thought because I didn't think to account for the cat man, an old guy who lived alone and fed all the cats in our dingy complex while also housing a few. Knowing how obsessive he was he’d probably notice if one of them disappeared. Then again not all the cats return consistently or at all. It makes more sense that he’d think one of them was run over rather than slaughtered. It was getting late again so I rested my head for a moment, a bad move cause I ended up falling asleep at my desk. Not even changing out of the clothes I’d worn before, I woke up late and barely caught the bus the next morning.
I went to my usual spot but Abdul had already taken it. He patted the area next to it, which he’d covered in a towel, a smart move knowing how nasty it was. People gave me a few dirty looks as normal, which I smiled at. I stretched, my mind slightly less out of it than the previous morning.
“Uh, you do realize that-”
“Yeah, I know I’m wearing the same clothes.”
Abdul looked me up and down, his eyes remaining soft, but with a mix of concern and judgment. He set his backpack down and took off his sweater handing it to me.
“Dude what are you-”
“Look I don't know what led to you not being able to change but I think you should at least have a fresh top.”
I was surprised he was offering me something to wear but I took it.
“Uh, thanks, I’ll change into it later.”
He nodded as I put it in my backpack.
“You know you didn't have to do that.” I reminded him.
“Well there’s a lot of stuff I don’t have to do, but I do it because I want to, and I wanted to help you out.”
He smiled, his face still warmer than an Arizona summer. I got a strange feeling in my chest at that moment, I still can’t tell if it was good or bad.
“Well, thanks, I'll give it back to you tomorrow.”
We talked a little more and he mentioned something that caught my attention.
“Have you heard about all the animals that have been turning up dead?”
My eyes widened with surprise.
“No, I haven't, when did you hear about that?”
He pulled on his long-sleeve shirt.
“My sister said her friend who works at a shelter noticed a bunch of animals were getting adopted by people around the same time, and since then gore videos with them have been showing up. She found out through her co-worker who was emailed it by some random creep.”
I covered my mouth and looked away to hide the smile growing on my face. He had just given me the perfect cover-up without knowing. Now if I killed an animal people had an entire violent ring to connect it to instead of me! I stayed quiet for a minute because I could tell he’d likely see through any phony sad sounds I made.
“Oh wow, that’s awful, do you think they’ll ever find out the people behind it?”
He sighed, running his hand through his wavy hair.
“I hope so, for now, all we can do is pray that no more animals get hurt.”
I couldn't contain my grin as he said that so sincerely like animals and people didn't die constantly and that taking down one group would somehow stop the issue.
“Is there some joke I don’t get?” he furrowed his brow.
“Uh, no, sorry I smile when nervous.”
His gaze softened again, and he didn't press further.
His bringing up the animal killings ended up being the exact push I needed to get my hands dirty. I’d spent the entire day before planning so it was time to put that plan into action. I stole some cat treats that the cat man had laid out and spread them around my apartment which was on the bottom floor. Waiting for one of them to take the bate outside my window was pretty boring but one of them came after a few minutes. A scraggly brown and black cat with a tuft of fur missing on one side of his head. It's messed up but I felt like a little less of an asshole for taking him in since he looked like he was already struggling. I scooped him up and he didn't attempt to fight back.
“Hey there buddy” I waved, feeding him some more food. His eyes had a lot of crust on them, it was kinda gross but I don’t have the right to say with how often I wash my jeans. After a minute or two he let me pet him. I knew making any kind of attachment was bad but I thought it was the right thing to do so he’d fall into a sense of security. I was just about to take him into my room when the door opened.
“Hey, I’m back with groceries!” my shithead cousin announced with two plastic bags in his hands. He looked down to see me with the cat, his eyebrows raising.
“Aw come on, you know we can’t afford a pet.”
He groaned placing the bags on a table and unloading them.
“I know, but he doesn't look like he’s got a lot of life in him I at least want to help him feel better before he kicks the bucket!”
Brick rolled his eyes, putting the cereal box on top of the fridge
“Jeez, did you even think about what diseases he might have? His eyes look puffy what if he has something that can get you sick?”
He had valid concerns which was surprising since he’s usually stupid, but I was still annoyed with him.
“I’m sure he’s fine, I’ll even try to wash him, just please let me hold onto him for a little.”
He folded his arms looking down at us.
“Have you even named him?”
I froze for a second, before using the first thing that came to mind, which ended up being pretty awful knowing my plans.
“Cash cow.” I blurted, awkwardly patting his head.
“Honestly that’s better than what I was expecting. I was sure you’d pick ‘Hellspawn Mcgee’ or something else corny.”
He meant to make fun of me but honestly, I would have named him that if I had more time.
“Ugh, anyway I got those dumb chips you like.”
He then pulled out a bag of the wrong chips.
“Dude those are the wrong ones, this is the third time you’ve mixed up the flavors.”
He threw them at me, scaring the cat slightly.
“Well, I pay for it so you shouldn't be so picky. Anyway, while I was in line I picked up something you might be into.”
He then tossed me a trashy teen magazine. One of my least favorite sorry excuses for an influencer on the cover.
“This is a joke, right?”
I couldn't believe my own adopted brother gave such little shit in my interests.
“I don't know, you decided to start being a girl for real this time so I thought the makeup tips on page ten would help you out.”
I scrunched my face at his comment.
“Dude I’ve been this way for years, just because I started wearing more makeup and dresses doesn't mean I’m more of a girl than when I didn't. I know you won’t get the two-spirit thing but come on.”
He shrugged, seeing me done with me even though he’d just shown up.
“Yeah well hey I’m trying. Anyway, just so you know a friend of mine is coming here Friday.”
My heart stopped.
“Wait why here? You live elsewhere why can’t you assholes go there or their place!”
He slammed his fist on the table.
“Will you shut the fuck up!”
He screamed with a phrase I’d grown numb to.
“I don't know, to be honest, something about wanting to move into this complex and this being a way to scout it out. I’m just letting you know now so you don’t act like a complete freak.”
“Jokes on you I’ll piss in whatever shitty beer you bring just cause you said that!”
I yelled back raising my voice higher than his. He face-palmed before putting the plastic bags in the drawer under the sink.
“Whatever, you and your ketamine-addict-looking cat have fun,” he told me while seating himself on the couch. I picked up the cat and walked into the bathroom to clean it. I closed the door and placed him in the dry tub. Using a small disposable mouthwash cup I got a little bit of water. I hadn't had a pet before so I wasn't sure how to approach the task. I dipped my fingers in the water and carefully pet it while pouring s small bit down his back. Any other cat would fight back but he just made pissed-off noises without doing anything.
I scrapped my old shampoo bottle and kneaded it into his thin fur. His skin was bumpy and dry beneath the hair so scrubbing it was uncomfortable. I made sure to avoid getting soap in its eyes but I did pull away some of the crust on its lids. His pupils were so clouded I was surprised that he could see at all, making me feel even more sure that he would be on its way out with or without me.
After drying him I set him on a beat-up shirt I wore when modifying clothes. He sunk his claws into it a few times, playing with a loose string. I ignored him for the rest of the night, hopping into the shower and changing for bed. His meows woke me up a few times but I tuned it out after a while, reminding myself that he wouldn’t be my cat for long.
The next day was Thursday and there wasn't a second that passed by where the weight of the murder I’d have to commit didn't weigh on me. I seriously shot myself in the foot by taking care of that scruffy, pubic hair pile. I was supposed to be hyped about killing it, after all, I’d dreamed and seen way worse than what I was going to do. Yet once I got home and started setting up I felt grosser with each step. I decided to record it in my bathroom instead of my bedroom so it would be harder to connect to me. I set down a few fabric scraps and a worn-out beach towel, placing it all inside a tub for easier cleanup later.
“Okay, I guess it's time,” I mumbled to myself. I brought the cat in and placed it down, setting up my camera once it was comfortable. I also wore my most generic clothes in addition to a mask, putting my hair in a bun for sanitation. When I saw the flicker of red showing that the camera was on I felt I was dreaming. I smiled, excited that I’d get to live out my violent desires. Yet, when I looked down at its pathetic frame and confused expression those urges left me.
I rationalized what I was doing, reminding myself how many animals die all the time and that I’d been forced into this, but it didn't help much in the end. I won’t get into it but under the pressure of impressing the group Cash Cow didn't go out as fast as I would have liked for a first task. Getting rid of the evidence was especially rough, the textures were pretty nasty, to put it mildly. It was surreal watching the blood go down the tub drain and gradually drip off my hands as I rinsed them. I couldn't conjure a single thought the entire time I cleaned it up.
Whether I was wringing out the clothes or putting the remains in plastic bags, it didn't matter. All I could focus on was the task at hand, with hints of disgust along the way. I ended up finishing at three AM. My hands were wrinkled and shook once I settled. I won’t deny that during the murder I didn't hate it. Slashing into something was fun and it made me feel strong. Still, it wasn't nearly as fulfilling as I expected it to be. Part of it was guilt, but it was mostly disappointment. I’d built it up for years and it wasn't earth shatteringly good or bad.
Overall, I expected to feel more, but it just left me hollow with an uncomfortable itch. There was no way I’d ever be able to see the tub the same way, hell I don’t think I’ll ever use it again. Luckily I almost always shower anyway so it's not too big of a deal. I watched a few horror game videos, trashed everything, changed and went to bed.
My scalp hurt like a bitch the morning since I kept my hair in that stupid bun. Despite getting less sleep than the past two days I held myself together a bit better in the morning. I brushed my teeth, changed, and had some fried bread before getting on the bus. Regardless I looked like complete shit and struggled to slump into my seat.
“Rough night?” Abdul asked
“Uh, yeah.” I quietly responded looking to the floor.
He frowned, looking at me with concern.
“You can talk about it if you're comfortable,” he assured me. I contemplated giving him a thinly veiled metaphor or vague explanation so he'd comfort me but stopped myself before my mouth could run a muck. He wouldn't be able to do much of anything and I don’t like opening up.
“Uhm, thanks but it's something I have to deal with alone.”
He nodded, respecting my boundaries.
“You know, I understand if you can’t hang out today it seems like you have a lot going on.”
I avoided eye contact with him as he spoke. For once I was feeling hints of guilt toward a person. I wanted to spend time with him, but I knew that I wasn't in the state to do that.
“Yeah, I think it’ll have to wait, I’m-” I cut myself off before apologizing. A fact about me that should surprise no one is that I hate apologizing. Even when I do feel kinda bad the act fills me with embarrassment.
“You what?” he asked, his eyes telling me that he knew what I was going to say.
“I’m emotionally not great.” I spat out in an admittedly poor attempt to get out of saying sorry. As always he remained calm but I could tell he saw through me.
“Okay, like I said I understand, whatever it is I hope you feel better.”
I told him thank you and we didn't speak for the rest of the day. At home I changed into more comfortable clothes and brushed my teeth. Unfortunately, I wasn't bouncing back from killing nearly as much as I expected.
“It wasn't even that bad! That thing was on its last legs anyway.” I grumbled to myself, smacking my forehead. I was feeling worse than when I did it which is weird. I ended up spontaneously decorating a ratty tie from the bottom of an accessory drawer to distract myself. It helped me get my mind off things, for a little. I had zero plan, just wanting to make something needlessly complex. Hours that felt like minutes passed and soon it was covered in patches, frills, and beads. I just tried it on when I heard the front door open.
“Man, that shit was wild!” I heard Brick laugh groggily. I didn't have to see or smell him to know he’d gotten lit. I rolled my eyes, closing my bedroom door.
“Hey, who’s there?” his friend asked, seemingly referring to me.
“Oh, that’s my little sis, don’t mind her she’s just on her emo shit!” he joked, which pissed me off for the petty reason that I didn't even listen or dress emo.
“Hey, that’s alright with me, I went through one of those phases,” they responded, their words less slurred than my cousin’s.
I fucked up and forgot to lock it when I closed it so they were able to swing it open, almost smacking my desk.
“Hey emo girl!” they waved as Brick haphazardly pulled them back.
“Okay, man, seriously I think she wants to be left alone.”
The way his friend looked at me made me uncomfortable. Like they’d snap my neck if I pissed them off. They clicked their tongue while stepping through the door frame.
“Alright, but I gotta say calling her an emo is inaccurate, they look like they watch gore and most emos just say they do.” they flashed a sharp toothy grin. At that moment I began to connect the dots.
“Easy, she’ll get pissy with you dude, now come on.” Brick warned tugging their opened button pushed him away. They looked me dead in the eyes.
“I don’t think she minds, in truth, I feel like we’ll have a lot to discuss later.” they smiled again, finally walking back into the living room. A chill ran up my spine when I saw them. The sharp teeth, New York accent, unsettling gaze, that motherfucker was the person who recruited me! They were able to get into my place so easily cause my dumbass cousin probably gave them a spare key or the opportunity to make one, and now they were a room away from me!
I dug my hands into my pillow as I contemplated what to do, no matter what happened next, I knew it was gonna be a rough visit.

I'm looking to build a PC for $1200AUD tops. It'll be for casual gaming, paperwork and occasionally some cloud modelling. The latest game I was looking to play is Anno 1800 so I'd like to meet the following specs of go beyond (figuring tech is a little better these days). Maximum budget is $1200 with Windows 11 (ideally) Planning on building before end of June. I'd like the tower w/parts. Located in regional Australia. I have peripherals. No overclocking I'd like a reasonable amount of storage (SSD maybe?) A simple case would be best, size dependant on components I guess?
Specs
Operating system Windows 10 (64-bit versions) Processor AMD Ryzen 5 1500X @ 3.5 GHz, Intel i5 4690K @ 3.5 GHz, or better RAM 8 GB Video card AMD Radeon R9 290X (4 GB), NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 (4 GB), or better* Hard drive 60 GB available storage DirectX version DirectX 11 or DirectX 12 Thanks for the help!

It all started with the divorce. I moved into an apartment so close to my old house that you couldn't hear an entire song between the two places. That's because I have three great kids (16, 13, 8) and, yes, in a minute I know you're going to say that they need me, etc. but what they really need is a real father, not one who constantly never has any money and is constantly out of sorts with stress. I'm a freelance writer with an undemanding, intermittent contract role with a prominent employer. This ends at the end of next month. Then there's nothing.
But I'm getting ahead of myself.
After I filed for divorce, I decided to file Chapter 13. This immediately rendered it impossible for me to get a car loan after I sold my vehicle due to cash problems. Drained my mom of her money keeping me in my apartment. Went to a treatment center for 5 days after I relapsed after years of sobriety. Lost my job at Chase in 2021. Couldn't afford my meds anymore so I got a DUI (dismissed), but not for drinking -- it was for driving under the influence of mental-health Rx withdrawal (not kidding - it was a thing). P.S. The meds went from $30/mo. to $210/mo. and I have four of them.
I then started dating a wonderful woman/friend. We got engaged. Happiness. Shortly thereafter, I fell out of a truck helping a friend move commercial-grade windows at a construction site because I'm uncoordinated. A freak, cartoonish accident. Shattered my ankle and leg. Lived on a couch for 3 months in excruciating pain.
I get up and try to work nonstop. Anything to get extra money. I barely sleep. I keep trying to move forward but life persists in pulling me back down. Whenever I have good news about something, 4 other problems rise up. I ask everyone what can **I** do to be better, what can **I** do to not be in this doom loop? No one has answers. "Hang in there" counts, I guess. I've cut friends out, as well as family members. I couldn't figure out the unemployment website. I am a black hole for everyone around me. I live by the grace of others and random, brief successes. I mean, **I** have compassion fatigue for me, so I can only imagine what others feel - even you, if you've been reading any of the above.
And guess what? That's not all. There's a lot more I won't detail. It's unreal.
Plus, last week, my fiancee of three years up and left with no explanation. Zero contact for 3 days. And once that shock wore off, I'm here a week later sitting in our empty house alone in the dark.
It's not that I'm sad. I'm done. I apply for thousands (and I mean thousands) of jobs per month. Nothing. Unless you count the time I accepted an elaborate fake job scam where they stole my identity when I gave them my banking info for W-9 info. **I** don't believe this tale of woe, but it's a domino game from hell.
But I'm empty now. I've got nothing left. I don't have the wherewithal, monetarily or for real, to handle this world anymore. I don't look at Columbus the same way, either. It seems darker somehow. It's not meant for me. The outside world seems shadowed more than I remember it being, as if everything out there feels like a greyed-out option on a website. "Unavailable" or "Out of Stock."
I can't afford (or need) to live in this house, even though I've paid rent in full 11 out of 12 months. I now have 12 days to find a new place to live and I don't have options beyond men's shelters or friends' couches for a day or two. This is surreal. She moved some of her stuff out today. How did I get here? I thought I had a place to stay but it fell through a few hours ago. I really don't know how I can ever get back to where I was before the last three years beat me down. And I have tried -- really fucking tried -- to stay on this side of things, but I don't think this world wants me anymore. I've gotten its message. If it's for some sort of life lesson via the universe, this 46-year-old man has learned that once you fall into the system, you're never getting out. I am always, like, $1500 away from being okay for good.
All I wanted was a real job -- not some part-time, bait-and-switch gig that wasn't what I was promised, but forced to accept. All I want is to sleep. All I want is to think of a future that has me in it. All I want is my fiancee to not leave abruptly and permanently, without warning or days of explanation (still waiting for that), and break my kids' hearts. Her leaving isn't even the reason for feeling the way I do -- it only confirms that I am the common denominator and that I am the problem.
What is the point of any of this anymore?
In a few days, it'll be my birthday. I can't see what that looks like.
I know many of you have problems and issues and conditions much worse than my life. But it's not about comparison for me. I've only detailed in writing 20% of what's happened/happening in my life so I could see it in writing. And I'm convinced more than ever there's no way out, no way back.

We’ve never made a quickstart guide for any of our RPGs, but from now on, it will be our priority! Since releasing Cryptid Creeks on itch.io and DriveThru a few days ago, we’ve had over 3k downloads, with many visitors willing to drop money on this PWYW sample. But more than this, it’s achieved a number of secondary opportunities, such as interest from streamers, players already contacting us with their homebrew ideas, and just a wonderful buzz in the air before the full game is published next month.
I strongly recommend making a quickstart your priority, and best of luck with your creations!
https://hatchlingdm.itch.io/cc

Are you looking to take your SEO skills to the next level?

Look no further than The SEO Boardroom by Julian Goldie. In this review, we will explore who Julian Goldie is, what The SEO Boardroom offers, and why it is considered the best SEO community. From exclusive access to expertise and constantly updated content to personalized coaching and support, this community has everything you need to succeed in the world of SEO. But don't just take our word for it - hear what members have to say and discover why investing in The SEO Boardroom is worth it.

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Key Takeaways

• Gain exclusive access to industry expertise and insider knowledge within The SEO Boardroom community.
• Constantly updated content ensures that members are always up-to-date with the latest SEO strategies and techniques.
• The SEO Boardroom offers a personalized coaching and support system that helps members improve their SEO skills and achieve their goals.

Who is Julian Goldie?

Julian Goldie is a leading figure in the SEO arena, known for his expertise in helping website owners and agencies achieve first-page rankings through advanced SEO strategies. With a remarkable background in digital marketing and a keen eye for search engine optimization trends, Julian Goldie has made significant contributions to the SEO community. His wealth of experience has enabled him to develop cutting-edge techniques that have proven highly effective in optimizing websites for increased visibility and traffic. Julian's impact extends beyond individual websites; he has empowered countless agencies to enhance their clients' online presence and secure prominent positions in search engine results.

What is The SEO Boardroom?

The SEO Boardroom is an exclusive online community founded by Julian Goldie that offers a wealth of resources, including case studies, online courses, and personalized coaching, to help members excel in the competitive SEO landscape. The SEO Boardroom is a hub where SEO professionals and website owners unite to gain valuable insights, share best practices, and stay ahead in the ever-evolving digital marketing realm. With an emphasis on fostering a collaborative environment, members can engage in lively discussions, seek advice from industry experts, and stay updated on the latest trends through cutting-edge workshops and webinars. Through interactive tools and resources, users can enhance their technical SEO skills, implement data-driven strategies, and optimize their online presence for maximum visibility and ROI.

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Why is The SEO Boardroom the Best SEO Community?

The SEO Boardroom stands out as the premier SEO community due to its exclusive access to expertise, constantly updated content, interactive community, and personalized coaching and support, making it the go-to destination for professionals seeking to enhance their SEO skills. The platform's strength lies in its diverse range of resources, including cutting-edge strategies, in-depth case studies, and expert interviews, all aimed at keeping members informed and ahead of the ever-evolving digital marketing landscape. The networking opportunities within the community foster collaborations, idea exchanges, and mentorship, creating a dynamic environment for skill development. Members also benefit from tailored support and guidance through one-on-one coaching sessions, ensuring their individual growth and success in the fast-paced world of SEO.

Exclusive Access to Expertise

The SEO Boardroom offers unparalleled access to industry-leading expertise, with insights and strategies shared by Julian Goldie and other SEO experts, empowering members to stay ahead in the ever-evolving SEO landscape. Being part of The SEO Boardroom gives individuals direct access to a wealth of knowledge and experience that can significantly impact their SEO success. The platform fosters a knowledge-sharing culture where members can learn from each other's experiences and collaborate on innovative strategies. Expert contributions from seasoned professionals provide valuable insights into the latest industry trends and best practices, offering a unique opportunity for continuous learning and professional growth. The educational opportunities within The SEO Boardroom help members enhance their skills and stay at the forefront of SEO advancements, ensuring their competitiveness in the digital marketing arena.

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Constantly Updated Content

The SEO Boardroom ensures that its members have access to the latest SEO trends, strategies, and case studies through regularly updated content, keeping them informed and equipped to adapt to the dynamic digital landscape. One of the core strategies of The SEO Boardroom involves a commitment to constantly monitoring industry trends and algorithm updates to provide members with cutting-edge insights. By staying abreast of SEO best practices, the boardroom ensures that its content remains relevant and impactful in driving success for its members' digital endeavors. Members benefit from a curated selection of articles, videos, and webinars that delve into various facets of SEO and content creation. The emphasis is on empowering members to apply these insights practically in their SEO strategies.

Interactive Community

The SEO Boardroom fosters an engaging and interactive community where members can network, collaborate, and exchange ideas, creating a supportive environment for sharing experiences and insights within the SEO domain. Through regular discussions, workshops, and online forums, The SEO Boardroom offers a platform for professionals to connect with like-minded individuals in the digital marketing world. Members have the opportunity to expand their knowledge through peer-to-peer learning, gain fresh perspectives on industry trends, and receive valuable feedback on their strategies. This collaborative environment not only enhances each member's skills and expertise but also cultivates lasting relationships and partnerships that can lead to professional growth and success.

Personalized Coaching and Support

Members of The SEO Boardroom receive personalized coaching and support from industry experts, enabling them to address specific challenges, refine their strategies, and achieve their SEO goals with tailored guidance and assistance. The coaching and support services offered by The SEO Boardroom go beyond just providing general advice. Members have access to one-on-one mentoring sessions where they can dive deep into their unique issues and receive guidance that is tailored to their individual needs. This personalized approach allows for a more effective problem-solving process and fosters a sense of ownership over their SEO strategies. Mentorship opportunities are abundant within The SEO Boardroom community. Members can connect with seasoned professionals who offer guidance, feedback, and insights based on their years of experience in the field.

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What Do Members Have to Say About The SEO Boardroom?

Members of The SEO Boardroom have praised the community for its transformative impact on their websites, driving increased traffic, higher sales, and enhanced online visibility through the application of cutting-edge SEO strategies. One member, in a glowing testimonial, mentioned how joining The SEO Boardroom turned their struggling website into a top performer in their niche within months. Another member highlighted how the invaluable insights and support from the community helped them navigate Google's algorithm updates smoothly, resulting in a steady climb in search engine rankings. Others expressed gratitude for the personalized guidance they received from experienced mentors, leading to a significant boost in organic reach and conversion rates.

How Much Does it Cost to Join The SEO Boardroom?

The cost of joining The SEO Boardroom varies depending on the membership tier chosen, with options tailored to suit the needs and budget of different professionals and website owners seeking to enhance their SEO expertise. Members can opt for the entry-level tier, which provides access to exclusive webinars, industry reports, and a private forum for networking with experts. For those looking for more comprehensive benefits, the premium tier offers personalized SEO audits, one-on-one coaching sessions, and early access to cutting-edge SEO tools and resources. Regardless of the tier chosen, all members enjoy priority support, discounted rates for SEO services, and invitations to annual SEO conferences, adding significant value to their membership.

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Is The SEO Boardroom Worth the Investment?

The SEO Boardroom proves its worth through tangible results, including increased website traffic, boosted sales conversions, and valuable networking opportunities that translate into a significant return on investment (ROI) for members seeking to elevate their online presence. Members of The SEO Boardroom benefit from the collective expertise and resources that lead to a marked uptick in organic search traffic, reflected in tangible metrics and analytics. This increased visibility not only drives more qualified leads but also enhances brand recognition and credibility, setting the stage for long-term growth. The strategic collaborations and partnerships forged within the networking forums of The SEO Boardroom pave the way for mutually beneficial business relationships, opening doors to new opportunities and potential ventures.

Increased Traffic and Rankings

Members of The SEO Boardroom witness a notable increase in website traffic and improved search engine rankings, attributing their success to the strategic guidance, expert advice, and actionable insights provided within the community. Joining The SEO Boardroom has been a game-changer for many website owners, as they discover that implementing the recommended practices can lead to a surge in organic traffic. The diverse range of success stories shared by fellow members serves as inspiring testimonials to the effectiveness of the community's SEO strategies. Within this supportive environment, individuals find innovative ways to enhance their online visibility and climb the search engine result pages. It's fascinating how even small tweaks suggested by experienced members can yield substantial improvements in website rankings.

Valuable Networking Opportunities

The SEO Boardroom offers valuable networking opportunities for members to connect with industry professionals, exchange ideas, and forge meaningful partnerships that can lead to collaborations, business growth, and enhanced visibility within the SEO community. In this exclusive platform, members have the chance to build strong connections with like-minded individuals and top experts in the field. The collaborative environment of The SEO Boardroom fosters a sense of community among participants, enabling them to share insights, best practices, and the latest trends in the ever-evolving world of search engine optimization. By engaging in these interactive discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions, members can gain valuable industry insights, stay updated on the latest algorithm changes, and expand their professional network to enhance their career prospects and business opportunities. The SEO Boardroom truly serves as a hub for fostering partnerships, nurturing relationships, and staying at the forefront of SEO industry developments.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Members of The SEO Boardroom experience a significant return on investment (ROI) through the enhanced visibility, increased website traffic, and improved sales performance that result from leveraging the resources, training, and support available within the community. By collaborating with industry experts and like-minded professionals, they gain valuable insights on the latest trends, algorithms, and techniques that directly impact their organic search rankings and overall digital presence. The community serves as a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and receiving personalized guidance, leading to accelerated growth and scalability for their businesses.

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Conclusion: Why The SEO Boardroom is the Best Choice for SEO Professionals

In conclusion, The SEO Boardroom emerges as the top choice for SEO professionals and website owners seeking to excel in the digital landscape, offering a unique blend of expertise, community support, and resources curated by Julian Goldie to drive success and achieve first-page rankings. One of the main advantages of choosing The SEO Boardroom lies in its holistic approach to SEO education. Not only does it provide cutting-edge techniques and strategies to stay ahead of the constantly evolving algorithms, but it also fosters a sense of belonging within a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. This supportive environment enables members to share insights, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate successes together, creating a network that fuels continuous learning and growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The SEO Boardroom by Julian Goldie Review? The SEO Boardroom by Julian Goldie Review is a comprehensive review of the popular SEO community created by Julian Goldie. It provides an in-depth analysis of the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of the community for those looking to join or learn more about it.
Who is Julian Goldie and why did he create The SEO Boardroom? Julian Goldie is a highly successful SEO expert and entrepreneur who has achieved great success in the online marketing world. He created The SEO Boardroom as a way to share his knowledge, connect with other like-minded professionals, and provide a platform for others to learn and grow their businesses through SEO strategies.
What sets The SEO Boardroom apart from other SEO communities? The SEO Boardroom is unique in its approach to SEO education and community building. It focuses on a combination of practical strategies, insider tips and tools, and a supportive community of experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping each other succeed.
Is The SEO Boardroom suitable for beginners? While The SEO Boardroom is primarily geared towards experienced professionals, it also offers resources and support for beginners. The community is welcoming and inclusive, and members are encouraged to ask questions and learn from each other.
What kind of resources and tools are available in The SEO Boardroom? The SEO Boardroom offers a wide range of resources and tools, including training courses, live Q&A sessions, expert interviews, case studies, and access to exclusive SEO tools. Members also have the opportunity to network and collaborate with other professionals in the community.
Is The SEO Boardroom worth the investment? Based on our research and experience, we believe that The SEO Boardroom is definitely worth the investment. The community offers valuable resources, support, and networking opportunities for professionals in the SEO industry. Plus, with a 30-day money-back guarantee, there is minimal risk in trying it out for yourself.

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Mostly used for GPU heavy games
Build Name: My build Total Price: $1694.43
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D $278.49
MSI B650 GAMING PLUS WIFI ATX AM5 $169.99
NVIDIA Founders Edition GeForce RTX 4070 12 GB $549.99
Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB 64 GB (4 x 16 GB) DDR5-6600 CL32 $349.99
Samsung 990 EVO 2 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 5.0 X2 NVME Solid State Drive $155.99
Corsair RM750x SHIFT 750 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular Side Interface ATX Power Supply $89.99
Phanteks NV5 ATX Mid Tower Case $99.99
Deepcool AK620 DIGITAL 68.99 CFM 72.49

I posted about this the day it happened and 2 days after it happened cuz I was freaking out still am tbh cuz I can’t figure out how to fix it. So my external hard drive that had everything on there pics videos even games what didn’t I have on there broke accidentally well over a month ago. So I tried to recover the data multiple times on my own with data recovery software it wouldn’t work the scan would work the recovery wouldn’t it eventually became a lost partition which made it harder and made me panic more. It’s been 35 maybe 40 days since and I’ve tried so many ways to fix it like recover the data. Ppl have told me send to professional but 1. I can’t find a professional and 2. I don’t think the recovery even has a chance ppl even said it’s not guaranteed recovery the device will be fixed but recovery isn’t guaranteed I’m not worried about the broken device I’m worried about recovery. However this might not work but the folders that were on the hard drive all got saved on my pc idk how cuz it broke but the folders are empty no data nothing. Am I able to recovery the data anyway from just the folders tho or it isn’t an option? Cuz if I can do that then i wouldn’t need to recover from a broken hard drive. Oh Please don’t ask for hard drive model again that information wouldn’t help for recovery would it.

Hi! What laptops would you suggest that’s lightweight, can fit on plane tables, and is less than 1kg. My budget is around $450. I will mainly use it for zoom meetings, website editing, figma, emails, document typing. I’m an SEO specialist and a web designer so something I can use for those work. I already have a gaming pc and gaming laptop for regular work days but I travel a lot on budget airlines and I need something I can fit in my carry on. Hence, less than a kilo. Is there also any laptop like this thats around 8gb ram?
I was looking at Chuwi, Surface go (but expensive), and chromebook
LAPTOP QUESTIONNAIRE

• Total budget (in local currency) and country of purchase. Please do not use USD unless purchasing in the US:

450

• Are you open to refurbs/used?

No

• How would you prioritize form factor (ultrabook, 2-in-1, etc.), build quality, performance, and battery life?

I only care about the size and weight, and if I can do my tasks without problem. Will not be gaming on it. Build quality…Id want it to last at least

• How important is weight and thinness to you?

Very important

• Do you have a preferred screen size? If indifferent, put N/A.

N/a

• Are you doing any CAD/video editing/photo editing/gaming? List which programs/games you desire to run.

Only editing on canva

• If you're gaming, do you have certain games you want to play? At what settings and FPS do you want?

N/a

• Any specific requirements such as good keyboard, reliable build quality, touch-screen, finger-print reader, optical drive or good input devices (keyboard/touchpad)?

Has a keyboard, has a camera, a mic, has usb port. No need for touchscreen

• Leave any finishing thoughts here that you may feel are necessary and beneficial to the discussion.

A laptop I can use for SEO and web design work
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