When deciding to write this, I had to reconcile an issue; how do I advertise myself to you when I don't actually like who I am right now? The best answer I could come to was that I should just be open and hope that it resonates with someone :)
So I'll say all the boring stuff now to get it out of the way; I'm a 24 y/o living in Sydney, working in accounts. I'm 6'2, average body size, caucasian with brown hair and eyes. I'm happy to trade pics to verify if we click too. In terms of what I'm looking for physically, I'm not too picky at all. In fact, the only preference I have is that you aren't heavily overweight (chubby is fine!). Although that said, I suppose if you must know my 'type', it's girls with glasses.
So a bit more about me; I'm a bit of a nerd. I read manga in my spare time, I play video games when I can (games like ck3, hollow knight, Pokemon, those kinds of games, not so much COD or CS:GO) and I like a bunch (and hate a bunch) of Marvel movies. I also to play sports, used to play Aussie Rules and basketball in high school and now soccer in a Sunday league. So it'd be really nice to meet someone I can talk to about the hobbies we share, although I doubt we NEED to have hobbies in common if we click, it's just a bonus I think. That said I would love to discord and chill if we click, maybe watch some anime or play a game together?
I also wanna write a little bit about why I'm posting on here, I want to be fully open about my desires and aspirations from this post. I'm quite an introvert, although I tend to open up around a bit around friends. Speaking of which, I don't have too many of them. I have just a few close friends and that's pretty much it. I'd love that special someone to end up being my best friend, as cliche as that sounds. Someone I can just be myself with, who loves me for who I am, again quite cliche I suppose. I do have troubles really opening myself up to new people, and part of deciding to post this is with the goal of getting better at talking to strangers (although hopefully we're not strangers for long :). Hopefully you're someone that lives close enough that we could consider meeting if we really like each other.
So yeah, that's about it I think. Thanks for reading all the way through this, hopefully I didn't just ramble. If you happen to somehow like anything in this post, feel free to message, my dms are open :)

​
https://preview.redd.it/jqojxg9vj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=adb3251dedc7300ae527b1724b3846532999e715
Welcome to our comprehensive review article featuring the latest and greatest in A2 Handguards. In this roundup, we will be taking a closer look at some of the top products on the market and sharing our insights on their features, performance, and overall value. Join us as we explore the world of A2 Handguards and help you make an informed decision on which one suits you best.

The Top 18 Best A2 Handguard

1. Durable AR-15 Atlas S-One Handguard for Enhanced Performance - Experience optimal strength and stability with the Aero Precision Atlas S-One Handguard, featuring Aero's Taper Lock Attachment System in a sleek, lightweight design for your AR-15 setup.
2. Midwest Night Fighter M-lok, Fits AR-15, Black Handguard - Midwest Industries' Night Fighter M-lok Handguard provides a sleek and durable design for your AR15, with a black finish and MI-NF10 compatibility.
3. Midwest Night Fighter 9.25" Handguard for AR Rifles - Experience ultimate precision with the Midwest Industries Night Fighter 9.25" Handguard, meticulously designed for AR rifles and backed by its exceptional quality and reliability.
4. Premium Carbine AR-15 MLOK Rail System with Anti-Rotation Technology - Enhance your precision and durability with Mission First Tactical's MFT Extreme Duty 10" MLOK Carbine Rail System, featuring an anti-rotation technology, IR anti-reflective coating, ultra streamlined appearance, and a steel non-timing barrel nut.
5. Strike MLOK Rail 13.5 FDE Handguard - Experience unparalleled durability and adaptability with the Strike Industries Strike MLOK Rail 13.5 FDE handguard, designed for avid shooters of all skill levels.
6. Blackhawk Handguard Fix 15" Anodized Finish - Experience the perfect match with the Q QSERT Handguard - The Fix 15", seamlessly combining top-notch compatibility and innovation for your ultimate handgun enhancement.
7. Stylish Blackhawk Handguard for Motorcycle Protection - Touratech DEFENSA Handguards offer robust protection and comfort for your bike's levers in a lightweight, durable design, featuring a modern matte finish and various customization options.
8. Samson SXT 9" M-LOK Precision Handguard - Experience the sleek and durable design of Samson SXT 9" M-LOK Handguard, now in black, perfect for enhancing your firearm's performance.
9. Durable Enduro Handguard Kit - Polisport Touquet (Green) - Protect your ride with Polisport Touquet Handguard Kit, featuring advanced 'Bright Durable Polypropylene' technology for unbeatable color and durability, tailored specifically for Enduro races.
10. UFO Handguard Black - High-Quality and Durable Off-Road Plastic Protector - UFO Ho03638-001 Handguard Black: High-quality, authentic replica handguard in black, offering durability, Italian craftsmanship, and easy installation.
11. Universal Handguard for Motocross and ATV Protection - JFG Racing Motorcycle Aluminum Hand Guards provide ultimate hand protection, reduce fatigue, and fit all handlebars.
12. UTG Pro Model AR-15 Super Slim A2 Handguard - Lightweight & Slim Tubular Profile - Experience superior handling with the UTG Pro Model 4/15 Car Length Super Slim Drop-in Handguard, featuring a custom fit for AR15s, lightweight construction, and a continuous mounting platform.
13. MFT EXT Duty Free Flt RL MLOK AR-15 A2 Handguard - 18 Inches - Experience the top-rated MFT EXT Duty Free Flt RL MLOK for your AR-15 carbine, featuring a durable black finish and A2 handguard, backed by a solid 5.0 rating and two positive reviews.
14. Mil-Spec A2 Handguard for Optimal Stability and Durability - The Midwest Industries G2 Drop-In Handguard, with its lightweight yet sturdy design, features four anti-rotation QD sockets for push-button swivels, making it the perfect choice for mounting scopes and accessories on your 1913 mil-spec firearms.
15. Midwest Forearm 2-Piece Drop-In Gen2 Handguard - Durable and lightweight, the Midwest Industries Gen2 Two Piece Drop-In Mid-Length Handguard is a reliable choice for any gun, featuring four anti-rotation QD sockets and high quality 1913 mil-spec rails.
16. AR-15 Foundation Handguard for Rigid Accessory Mounting - Bowden Tactical's J23007 Foundation Handguard offers a 1.3-inch I.D., MAGPUL-compatible MLok slots, and a robust 4140 steel barrel nut for exceptional durability and accessory compatibility in your AR10 & AR15 builds.
17. The Fix 11" Anodized A2 Handguard - Upgrade your weapon with the sleek and durable Q QSERT Handguard The Fix, perfect for A2 Handguards and featuring The Fix's innovative Q SERT mounting solution.
18. Probend A2 Handguard Bar Pack - Enduro-Style Protection - Experience unparalleled protection and comfort with the high-quality, injection-molded Cycra Probend handguards, featuring integrated composite bumpers and CNC-machined 6061 billet aluminum Probend bars.

As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Reviews

🔗Durable AR-15 Atlas S-One Handguard for Enhanced Performance

​
https://preview.redd.it/azhjqowvj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=01f9bed427981c850e1790e5b1d730ebd470ec85
I recently gave the Aero AR15 Atlas S-One a spin, and let me tell you, it didn't disappoint. The slim profile of this handguard makes it a great choice for those who prioritize size and weight. It packs a punch when it comes to strength and stability thanks to Aero's durable Atlas attachment system.
And let me tell you, the Aero Taper Lock Attachment System (ATLAS) is both functional and visually stunning. The mirrored tapered locking nuts evenly distribute the clamping pressure, and the ratcheting detent makes the design secure while providing a positive registration during installation. Oh, and those hardware mounting parts? .
They're included, which makes life all the more convenient. Overall, it's a winner in the looks department and certainly does its job.

🔗Midwest Night Fighter M-lok, Fits AR-15, Black Handguard

​
https://preview.redd.it/4ehmey9wj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=942653f3fb3f1995620b8ce8dac23768e2f753ce
The Midwest Industries Night Fighter handguard is a sleek and durable accessory for your firearm. I've been using it for a few months now, and it definitely fits the bill. This handguard adds an extra layer of grip, making my firearm even more comfortable to handle in different environments. The black finish not only looks striking but also provides protection against wear and tear.
However, I did face some minor issues recently, like the occasional loosening of the attachments after continuous use. But overall, this product has proven to be quite reliable. Using it with my AR-15 felt smooth and seamless, with no discomfort or hindrance in my shooting experience. For someone who's looking for a tactical and handy attachment, this M-lok handguard is worth considering.

🔗Midwest Night Fighter 9.25" Handguard for AR Rifles

​
https://preview.redd.it/s3hgn3lwj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=36448b1758e072476d25fc8ce7e8e7a7f3994c22
As a seasoned shooter, I can hardly imagine finding a better handguard for my AR rifle than the Midwest Night Fighter 9.25". This sturdy product not only adds a striking aesthetics but it also serves the essential purpose of keeping my AR rifle safe and secure, especially during nighttime operations.
I particularly appreciate its durability, attributed to its high-quality construction featuring M-lok technology. The design is thought well, ensuring a perfect fit and impeccable balance for my AR rifle. However, I must admit, it weighs a bit more than anticipated, which makes handling slightly challenging at times.
One negative experience I had was when I tried to assemble it all by myself and struggled a bit in the beginning. However, once I got the hang of it, it started to make sense.
Overall, while it may not be the lightest tool in the shed, the Midwest Night Fighter 9.25" provides a secure hold to my AR rifle. I would recommend it to someone with a knack for tactical rifle gear.

🔗Premium Carbine AR-15 MLOK Rail System with Anti-Rotation Technology

​
https://preview.redd.it/jsllru3xj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c54bb1f28466754d468d5d85016ad182b3792aff
As someone who's had the chance to use the Mission First Tactical Extreme Duty Carbine Rail System, I must say - it's a game-changer for AR-15 enthusiasts. This 7-sided M-LOK rail system is sleek and stylish, with an anti-rotation tech that makes it incredibly dependable.
The anti-reflective coating is a thoughtful feature, reducing glares and reflections that could be a nuisance in various lighting conditions. The steel non-timing barrel nut adds durability to the mix, and the ultra-streamlined appearance just seals the deal.
Of course, like any product out there, it's not perfect. The only downside I noticed was the need for some minor adjustments during assembly, which might be a bit of a hassle for first-time users. But overall, this MFT Extreme Duty Carbine Rail System is a reliable and stylish addition to any AR-15 setup.

🔗Strike MLOK Rail 13.5 FDE Handguard

​
https://preview.redd.it/sdsgk0fxj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=80402a01780bfc6b08baab6b83c6a16e80682529
Just recently, I had the chance to give the Strike MLOK Rail 13.5 FDE a try, and let me tell you, it was quite the experience. This handguard, crafted by the skilled team at Strike Industries, is designed to stand the test of time, thanks to its top-notch components.
During my time with the rail, I found myself impressed by the sturdiness and precision it offered. The MLOK system was particularly noteworthy, providing a secure and streamlined connection to my firearm. On the downside, I did notice that, despite its durability, the rail could be heavier than some other options on the market.
Overall, the Strike MLOK Rail 13.5 FDE proved to be a reliable addition to my arsenal. Its robust construction and user-friendly design make it a solid choice for shooters of all skill levels.

🔗Blackhawk Handguard Fix 15" Anodized Finish

​
https://preview.redd.it/bt825k0yj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=24e652521dd6b08f540bb92db4938673fdbb1c99
As I delved into using the Q SERT Handguard The Fix 15", I was impressed by how seamlessly it compatible with the Fix system made by the same brand. The sleek black anodized finish perfectly matched my firearm's aesthetic, making it a stylish addition that blended in well.
However, I did encounter a few minor hiccups during the attachment process. It wasn't as straightforward as I had hoped, which resulted in some frustration at first. On the bright side, the sturdy construction of the handguard provided a strong grip, offering a great improvement to my firearm's stability.
In conclusion, the Q SERT Handguard The Fix 15" proved to be an adequate solution for someone looking to upgrade their grip while maintaining their firearm's elegant appearance. With time and patience, it could be a great addition to your arsenal, but don't expect it to be a walk in the park.

🔗Stylish Blackhawk Handguard for Motorcycle Protection

​
https://preview.redd.it/pik3ny6yj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=48d388a0998929725ce11c93275a386629df056f
I recently tried the Touratech Defensa Silver Handguard Bars for my KTM/Husqvarna. This handguard gave me a sense of security on my rides, providing durable protection for both my levers and myself. The high-strength aircraft-grade aluminum exoskeleton structure was forged for maximum impact resistance, making it a reliable choice. Plus, the sleek, textured matte finish complemented the modern angular design, giving the bars a stylish touch.
On the other hand, I found that the plastic shields could be more securely attached. Sometimes they would slide out of place, which was inconvenient during my rides. However, the optional integrated plastic shield structure, known as Defensa Expedition, did provide added protection and comfort. This feature was definitely a highlight, as it shielded me from rain and cold air on cooler rides.
Overall, the Touratech Defensa Silver Handguard Bars provided me with a balance of protection and style, making them a solid choice for adventure motorcyclists.

🔗Samson SXT 9" M-LOK Precision Handguard

​
https://preview.redd.it/mbygiqnyj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a25c93e0233217ebe6fe300d1bf083a71a30e491
The Samson SXT 9" M-LOK handguard is a sleek and sturdy addition to any firearm. It seamlessly attaches to the gun's barrel, thanks to the M-LOK system, and gives the gun a modern touch. The black finish complements any gun it's mounted on, giving it a professional and tactical look.
One of the things that really stood out to me during my experience with this product was its ability to stay secure even when facing recoil. I've had other handguards slip or loosen during firing, but not this one. It just stays put, firmly attached to the gun.
On the downside, I did notice that it's not as lightweight as some other options out there. Its sturdiness comes at a cost, I guess you could say. But overall, I think it's a small price to pay for the added security and durability it provides.
In summary, if you're looking for a reliable and sturdy handguard that can withstand a good amount of wear and tear, the Samson SXT 9" M-LOK is definitely worth considering. It may not be the lightest option on the market, but its solid construction and M-LOK system make it a great choice for those who value security and stability.

🔗Durable Enduro Handguard Kit - Polisport Touquet (Green)

​
https://preview.redd.it/8lrxwn6zj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0e0600e7354dd2fc402e7418b89efa55bef440e9
The Polisport Touquet Handguard Kit, a Green gem designed for motocross enthusiasts, has become a staple for those seeking tough and reliable protection. Handcrafted with their patented Bright Durable Polypropylene technology, this bad boy boasts impressive durability, color retention, and UV ray resistance. The bolt holes are perfectly pre-drilled for the ultimate fit. The plastic pieces feature a high gloss finish and an on-target color palette that truly captures the soul of the original part.
However, installation isn't quite a walk in the park. You'll need to get crafty with drilling accelerator tubes and ensuring a snug fit that won't interfere with your controls. Radial master cylinders and ASV clutches may struggle with the tight fit, raising concerns for potential pinching and seizing. In the end, though, this protective handguard excels in offering robust protection against those inevitable spills, even if it takes some elbow grease to make it work.

🔗UFO Handguard Black - High-Quality and Durable Off-Road Plastic Protector

​
https://preview.redd.it/cgaemxlzj34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=106c5764fb5422927f3bd4b10320221251f00042
I recently had the chance to try out the UFO Handguard, and let me tell you, it exceeded my expectations. First of all, I was drawn to its original factory shape, which matched the look of the genuine model perfectly. It blends seamlessly with the rest of my gun setup.
The durability of this handguard was a pleasant surprise. I took it for a spin off-road, and it held up like a charm. UFO's use of high-quality plastics produced in Italy definitely paid off.
Another thing I appreciated was the wide range of colors available. While I opted for the classic black, I've seen photos of others in vibrant hues that really make their guns stand out.
The installation process was a breeze, too. The plastics are drilled ready for easy mounting, and the flex and lightweight design made it feel incredibly comfortable while in use. With the 100% Made in Italy guarantee since 1977, I had no doubts about the longevity and performance of this handguard.
A quick note though: the images provided are more of a suggestion rather than a perfect representation of the actual product. But overall, my experience with the UFO Handguard has been top-notch. Highly recommended for anyone looking to upgrade their gun setup.

🔗Universal Handguard for Motocross and ATV Protection

​
https://preview.redd.it/pe9gyy80k34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2aa81d3ac9ae6ed67b3df07d24ec212a79a8792a
I had the opportunity to try out these JFG Racing Motorcycle Universal Handguards a couple of weeks ago, and I must say, they've been a game-changer for me. Riding off-road ATVs always comes with its fair share of hazards, and these handguards have been a lifesaver in protecting my hands from brush, rocks, mud, and cold wind.
The combination of PP Plastic and Aluminum Alloy used in making these handguards brings a robustness that I've never come across in other handguards I've tried in the past. They offer a substantial shield, giving me the confidence I need when tackling the roughest terrains.
One of the best things about these handguards is the extra room they provide. It's been a blessing for me, allowing easy access to brake cables and other devices without having to worry about cramming them in.
However, despite all the positives, there is one drawback I've observed. They aren't as streamlined as I'd like them to be. While protection is vital, aerodynamics have their importance, and the added bulk to these handguards does make a difference, albeit slightly.
Overall, with their robust design, ample space for additional devices, and their effective protection against off-road elements, these JFG Racing Handguards make a compelling choice for any adrenaline junkie out there.

🔗UTG Pro Model AR-15 Super Slim A2 Handguard - Lightweight & Slim Tubular Profile

​
https://preview.redd.it/lpxj40s0k34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1ae35062133678445a2c80f1c1f1d46e2e88c4e1
The UTG Pro Model 4/15 Car Length Super Slim Drop-in Handguard is a must-have for your AR15, fitting seamlessly with standard delta ring assembly, barrel nut, and round handguard cap. Its lightweight, slim tubular profile offers improved handling and a top rail that extends to the upper receiver provides a continuous mounting platform.
The removable two 2-Slot and two 4-Slot rail sections allow for customization at various 3, 6, and 9 O'clock positions, while precision machining from aircraft aluminum and black anodizing ensures durability and a sleek finish. The simple installation process makes it easy to upgrade your AR15 without the need for gunsmithing.
The positive reviews from users highlight the product's value, ease of installation, and impressive features, making it an outstanding choice for anyone looking to enhance their AR15 experience.

🔗MFT EXT Duty Free Flt RL MLOK AR-15 A2 Handguard - 18 Inches

​
https://preview.redd.it/z7s9jv81k34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0dd31d1895ec42ca9127387ea47b4d73d774b822
The MFT EXT Duty Free Flt RL MLOK has been my trusty companion for the past six months as I've been enjoying my time at the range. The anti-rotating tabs have provided a secure and steady grip, ensuring that my rifle remains sturdy and aligned. Its sleek, black finish has never failed to impress and has added a touch of class to my setup.
One downside I've noticed is that it's somewhat heavier than the standard A2 handguard, but the modularity offered by the M-Lok system has been a lifesaver. The ability to switch out attachments has provided me with the freedom to customize my rifle to suit my preferences.
Overall, I've been quite pleased with my experience using this handguard. The combination of its durability, aesthetics, and flexibility has made it a reliable and essential piece of my gear.

🔗Mil-Spec A2 Handguard for Optimal Stability and Durability

​
https://preview.redd.it/vzhl29r1k34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=21f733c05bdb6548b550d73fe7ecd5df8fbf80d0
I recently had the chance to try out the Midwest Industries G2 Drop-In Handguard, and I must say, it has become a solid addition to my daily carry kit. The Gen2 design with four anti-rotation QD sockets for push-button swivels is quite impressive and has made switching between accessories a breeze.
One of the most noteworthy features that I appreciated was the incredibly lightweight construction while maintaining a robust lock-up, thanks to its monolithic continuous top rail. It has allowed me to mount scopes effortlessly and has made the overall experience incredibly smooth.
The high-quality 1913 mil. spec rails, T-marked for location, are a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into this handguard. Constructed from 6061 aluminum with a hard coat anodized finish, it has held up exceptionally well and continues to look as good as new even after prolonged use.
Compatibility-wise, the G2 Drop-In Handguard has proven to be versatile, working seamlessly with most gas piston systems. The 100% Made in the USA aspect also adds a nice touch of authenticity to the product.
While there were no significant cons during my experience, I did find the installation process to be somewhat tricky, which might be a cause for concern for some users.
Overall, the Midwest Industries G2 Drop-In Handguard is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, durable, and adaptable handguard for their firearms.

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to our buyer's guide for A2 Handguards. In this section, we will cover important features, considerations, and general advice to help you make an informed decision when purchasing an A2 Handguard for your firearm.

Materials

​
https://preview.redd.it/8n9tmax6k34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1cb0e0d41051de91db3676986f13a86de8367454
A2 Handguards are typically made from durable materials such as aluminum, polymer, or carbon fiber. These materials offer different levels of strength, weight, and heat resistance. Consider the environment in which the handguard will be used, and choose a material that suits your needs best. For example, aluminum handguards might be a good choice if you'll be using the firearm in a damp or humid environment, as they are less prone to corrosion compared to polymer.

Size and Compatibility

Make sure to check the size and compatibility of the handguard with your firearm before making a purchase. A handguard that is too small may not provide adequate support, while a handguard that is too large could interfere with your ability to use the firearm comfortably. Some A2 Handguards are designed for specific models or calibers, so be sure to choose the appropriate handguard for your firearm.

Design and Aesthetics

Aesthetics play a role in the overall look and feel of your firearm. Consider the style and design of the handguard, keeping in mind factors such as the material, texture, and any additional features, such as integrated slings or rail systems. Choose a design that not only looks good but also functions well for your needs.
​
https://preview.redd.it/6pts0dd7k34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1c8818eb796a07c54e8e90e521060313b2c40a05

Installation and Maintenance

Ease of installation and maintenance can greatly impact your overall satisfaction with the A2 Handguard. Look for handguards that come with clear installation instructions and are compatible with your existing mounting system, such as Picatinny or Weaver rails. Additionally, consider the overall durability of the handguard and the ease of cleaning or replacing components if needed.

Budget

Lastly, consider your budget when selecting an A2 Handguard. There are handguards available at various price points, with different features and materials. Determine the balance between cost and functionality that best suits your needs.
Choosing the right A2 Handguard can greatly enhance your firearm's performance and comfort. By considering factors such as materials, compatibility, design, installation, maintenance, and budget, you can make an informed decision and find a handguard that meets your specific needs.

FAQ

​
https://preview.redd.it/78qqb4d8k34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1e0e21f058cc8146f5a72981559f27f9432759f1

What is an A2 Handguard?

The A2 Handguard is a type of mounting system designed specifically for firearms. It provides a secure and sturdy platform for attaching equipment, such as tactical lights, laser sights, and bipods, to the firearm.

What is the difference between an A2 Handguard and other handguards?

Other handguards may differ in design, materials, and features such as rail systems, weight, and compatibility with specific firearms. The A2 Handguard is made for specific firearms, ensuring a proper fit and optimal functionality. Make sure to check the compatibility of the handguard with your firearm before making a purchase.
​
https://preview.redd.it/4olb16v8k34d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=74f38a2c1a0af2fb2fbcb59227795ba6c7c47021

What are some of the benefits of using an A2 Handguard?

• Additional mounting points for attaching tactical equipment
• Secure and sturdy platform for your equipment
• Easy to install and remove
• Improved ergonomics for better grip and control

Is an A2 Handguard easy to install?

Yes, an A2 Handguard is generally easy to install, as most of them come with detailed instructions. However, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and use the appropriate tools to ensure a proper installation.

What materials are A2 Handguards made from?

A2 Handguards can be made from various materials, such as aluminum, polymer, or a combination of both. The choice of material depends on the desired weight, durability, and appearance of the handguard.

Are A2 Handguards compatible with different firearm models?

While A2 Handguards are primarily designed for specific firearms, there might be some compatibility issues with aftermarket accessories or customizations. Make sure to check the manufacturer's compatibility guidelines before purchasing.

How do I clean and maintain an A2 Handguard?

To clean and maintain your A2 Handguard, use a soft cloth and mild cleaning solution. Avoid using abrasive materials, which can damage the finish. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prolong the life of your handguard and keep it looking great.
As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

🌸✨ Join Our Cozy, Immersive Modded Minecraft Server! ✨🌸
Hello Minecraft Enthusiasts!
Are you ready to dive into a beautifully enhanced Minecraft world with your friends? We're thrilled to announce our new modded server that's all about creating a cute, cozy, and immersive experience! Here's what you can expect:
🌍 World Generation & Mobs: - Alex's Caves: Explore stunning new cave systems. - Alex's Mobs: Discover a variety of adorable new animals. - Better Dogs x Doggy Talents: Train and adventure with your furry friends. - Fireflies: Light up the night with charming fireflies. - Bok's Butterflies: Enjoy the beauty of colorful butterflies. - Better Villages: Experience enhanced and detailed village life. - Monsters and Girls: Encounter whimsical new mobs. - Tans Huge Trees: Marvel at towering, majestic trees. - Terralith: Explore diverse and unique terrains.
🏗️ Building & Engineering: - Create: Craft intricate machinery and automation systems. - Create Crafts + Additions: Expand your building possibilities. - Create Big Cannons: Build and use massive cannons. - Ars Creo: Blend magic and engineering in your builds. - Create Ender Transmission: Teleport items and fluids across distances. - Macaw's Building Series: Add elegant and detailed structures. - Valkyrien Skies: Construct and fly custom airships. - Eureka: Innovate with new building mechanics. - Immersive Aircraft: Take to the skies with realistic aircraft. - Iron Jetpacks: Fly with customizable jetpacks.
🍲 Immersion, QoL, and Simulation: - Let's Do Bakery: Bake delightful treats with friends. - Let's Do Brewery: Brew various beverages and enjoy them together. - Let's Do Vinery: Ferment and create fine wines. - Let's Do Candlelight: Illuminate your world with cozy candles. - Blackwing Survival: Enhance your survival experience with realistic mechanics. - Exposure: Manage your body temperature in different environments. - Farmers Delight: Cultivate and cook a wide range of foods. - First Aid: Manage your health with detailed injury and healing mechanics. - Friends and Foes: Improve interactions with new friendly and enemy mobs. - Guard Villagers: Protect your villagers with trained guards. - Golems are Friends Not Fodder: Befriend and utilize golems. - Immersive Melodies: Fill your world with beautiful music. - Immersive Paintings: Decorate with stunning artworks. - Inventory Sorter: Organize your inventory with ease. - JEI: Simplify crafting with Just Enough Items. - Jade: Get detailed information about blocks and items. - Luck's Tough as Nails Compat: Enhance survival with realistic needs. - Macaw Building Series: Add a touch of elegance to your structures. - Nutritional Balance: Maintain a balanced diet for better health. - Sit & Chill: Relax and take a break with friends. - Sophisticated Backpacks: Carry your items with stylish, functional backpacks. - Villager Workers: Employ villagers for various tasks. - Waystones: Travel quickly with waystones. - Xaero's Minimap: Navigate easily with a detailed minimap.
🔮 Magic, Combat, and Adventure: - Ars Nouveau: Master powerful spells and magical crafting. - Ars Creo: Combine magic with engineering. - L_ender's Cataclysm: Face thrilling challenges and bosses. - Better Combat: Experience enhanced combat mechanics. - Black Powder Weapons/Guns: Equip a variety of firearms. - Cave Dweller Reimagined: Encounter new and dangerous cave-dwelling creatures. - Create Big Cannons: Use massive cannons in combat. - Divine Weaponry: Wield legendary and powerful weapons. - First Aid: Manage combat injuries with detailed healing mechanics. - Guard Villagers: Protect your village with skilled guards. - Ice and Fire: Dragons: Tame and battle fearsome dragons. - Monsters and Girls: Engage with whimsical and charming new mobs. - Old Guns Mod: Use historical firearms in your adventures. - Simple Weapons for Better Combat: Access a variety of new weapons. - Wizards Reborn: Embark on epic quests as a powerful wizard.
Currently spawn is set in Hey. Cherry tree bottom on top of a mountain with a village and everybody is working to build a Beautiful community in this beautiful setting. Feel free to join the community and contribute or seek your own adventure and write your new story!
Come join us and create unforgettable memories in a world filled with wonder, adventure, and cozy moments.
Whether you're building intricate machines, cooking delicious meals, or exploring enchanted lands, there's something for everyone to enjoy
Comment or dm if you'd like to join!
We can't wait to see you in-game! Let's make Minecraft magic together! 🌟
Happy crafting! 🏡🧙‍♀️🛠️

Adam and D-Sides Boyfriend, or DS for short, were deep into a game of Super Mario Bros Wonder on the Nintendo Switch."Yeah, this game is pretty good!" Adam agreed, just as the doorbell rang. He paused the game and got up. "Hang on, I gotta see who's at the door." Boyfriend nodded, and Adam walked to the front door. Opening it, he found Owen and Oskar standing there. "I often forget you know where I live," Adam remarked. Oskar darted inside, eager to escape Owen’s company. "Hi," Owen said, following more slowly. Owen took one couch, and Oskar took another, each eyeing the other warily.

Adam broke the silence. "So, where are your girlfriends tonight?" "Busy," they both replied in unison. "Well, okay then," Adam said. "I’m playing Mario Wonder with Boyfriend. Want to join?"
"You have a boyfriend?" Oskar asked incredulously. "No, his name is Boyfriend," Adam clarified. "You’re joking," Owen said, skeptical. "Nope. Hey BF, come out here!" Adam called. DS stepped out and waved. "Beep!" "Huh, you’re right," Oskar admitted.

Just then, someone knocked on the side door. "Hold on," Adam said, heading over. He opened it to find Isaiah and Eleanor. "Hi, Adam!" Eleanor greeted cheerfully. "Hi, guys!" Adam responded. Isaiah walked in, stopping when he saw Owen and Oskar. "Oh...who are you guys?" Isaiah asked. "I’m Oskar," Oskar replied. "I’m Owen," Owen added. Eleanor followed Adam, who closed the door behind them. "So, since there are more people here than usual, any ideas on what to do tonight?" Adam asked. "Beep Bo Bap!" DS beeped. "Boys' Night Out?" Adam suggested. "Boys' Night Out?" Owen repeated, confused. "It’s basically when just the guys go out for the night and have fun!" Adam explained.

"So, basically anything?" Oskar asked. "Yeah, as long as it’s legal," Adam said. "Are you okay with it, Eleanor?" Isaiah asked. Eleanor smiled and nodded. "Yeah, don’t worry. I’ll be fine. Your sister is home, right, Adam?" "Yeah, but she was a bit snappy earlier. I wouldn’t bother her," Adam warned. "Where would we go, anyway?" Owen asked. "Beep bap!" DS suggested. "Yeah, we can go to Applebee's," Adam said. "I’m okay with that," Isaiah agreed. "Can we go to the casino afterward?" Owen asked. Everyone stared at him in confusion. "Dude, we’re all 12-14 except for BF," Adam said. "Oh right," Owen realized. "We can go to the arcade next," Isaiah suggested. "That works," Adam said. "What about after that?" Oskar asked. "We'll figure it out. Ready to go?" Adam asked. "Yeah, I’m ready," Isaiah said. Owen got up. "Let’s go." Adam, DS, and Oskar followed. "Bye, Eleanor! We'll be back in a bit!" Isaiah said. Eleanor waved as the boys left.
After a bit, they finally arrived at Applebee's. "Alright boys, welcome to Applebee's. You know what I love about this place? The culture. I usually have a burger, but sometimes I switch it up. First meal, you’re in Asia; next meal, you’re in Greece!" Adam said.

"Beep bap bo!" DS chimed in. "Exactly, I feel like I need a passport to eat here!" Adam laughed. "So what do you recommend?" Isaiah asked. "What do I recommend? Isaiah, this is Applebee's. I recommend all of it! Wait, you're from New York, right?" Adam asked. "Yeah. Why?" Isaiah asked. "Brooklyn or Queens?" Adam asked. "Manhattan," Isaiah said. "Did you not go to Applebee's before?" Adam asked. "No, not really," Isaiah said. "Well, that's fine. You’re gonna love it," Adam assured him.

After a bit, the waitress came over. Adam’s heart sank. It was Mary Lou Maloney, a familiar face to him but not to the others. "Hello, welcome to Applebee's. My name is Mary, and I'll be your server tonight," Mary Lou said.

"Beep!" DS said."Y-Yeah..." Adam stammered, clearly unsettled. Mary Lou focused on Adam. "How about we start with you, handsome?" she asked, getting close and rubbing his hair. "What would you like to drink?" "Uh, I would like a..." Adam began to say. "You want a lemonade, right?" Mary Lou suggested. "Y-Yeah, that works," Adam said, visibly uneasy. Oskar looked at Adam, puzzled by his behavior. "I’ll have water," Oskar said. "I’ll have a Pepsi," Isaiah added. "Beep bo bap!" DS said. "He said he’ll have a Coke," Adam translated. "I'll take a water too," Owen said.

Mary Lou smiled and walked away. Adam faced the ground, holding his head. "Adam, are you okay? You acted strange when the waitress came," Oskar observed. "No, no, I’m fine. Just a bit hungry, that’s all," Adam lied, unconvincingly. "Who was that? You acted like she was your mom. Oh my god, was that your mom?" Owen asked. "What? No, that's not my mom. Look at me," Adam said. "Beep bap bo, skidoo bap?" DS asked. "No, not my ex or girlfriend..." Adam said. "Then who is it?" Isaiah asked. "Well, she's... a friend of mine. Yeah, a friend. I forgot she worked here," Adam said.

Mary Lou returned with their drinks, still grinning. "I have your drinks, boys. Now, may I take your orders?" "Yeah, that would be nice," Isaiah said. Mary Lou turned towards Adam. "Hey!" she said. "...Yeah?" Adam replied. "You want a classic bacon burger, right? Well done, fries seasoned?" Mary Lou asked. Adam’s heart dropped. "Y-Yeah..." "I’ll have a chicken sandwich," Isaiah said. "How do you want that cooked?" Mary Lou asked. "Crispy," Isaiah replied. "I’m not hungry, thanks," Oskar said. "I’m not hungry either," Owen added. Owen and Oskar exchanged glances, both thinking, "What's your excuse?" "Beep bo bap do bop!" DS said. "Alright, I’ll be back in a bit!" Mary Lou said, leaving with a tune. "Not your girlfriend, eh?" DS teased. "Why are you speaking English now?" Isaiah asked.
Meanwhile, Eleanor knocked on Esther’s door, but there was no answer. "Hello?" Eleanor called, knocking again. "Go away, Adam, or I’ll stab you," Esther threatened from inside. "But... I’m not Adam," Eleanor said. Esther opened the door and looked up at Eleanor. "Who are you?" "My name is Eleanor. You’re Adam’s little sister, right?" Eleanor asked. Esther groaned and tried to close the door, but Eleanor held it open. "Hey, what are you—" Esther began to say, but Eleanor's grip was strong. The door cracked as Eleanor instinctively burst it open, then sprinted off. "What the fu—"

Back at Applebee's, Mary Lou brought the food over, still grinning. "Enjoy your food!" she said, passing it around before leaving. "Damn BF, those nachos look tasty," Adam said. BF nodded, taking a bite and giving a thumbs up. Owen and Oskar’s stomachs growled. "You sure you aren't hungry? It’s not too late to order something," Adam offered. "I'm fine," Oskar said. "Yeah, me too," Owen agreed.

After around 20 minutes of eating, the food was done. "Wow, that burger was delicious," Adam said. "Beep…." DS said. "Yeah, it was," Isaiah said. Mary Lou came back. "I hope you enjoyed your food, now who's paying?" Mary Lou asked. Everyone looked at each other. "Uh, can you give us a second?" Adam asked. She nodded and left.

"Alright, I'm fine with paying if I need to but are there any takers?" Adam asked.
"...This might work," Oskar said. He pulled out Swedish cash from his pocket. "...Oskar, that's Swedish currency. I don't think that's gonna work." Adam said. "Oh…" Oskar said. "Wait, Oskar, are you Swedish?" Isaiah asked. "Yeah, Eli too," Oskar said. "Huh, I mean I can kind of hear it in your voice," Adam said.

Mary Lou came back and leaned close behind Adam. "You know, if you can't pay, if you come in the back with me Handsome, I'll let you off free…." Mary Lou said. Adam turned red as everyone turned towards him, dazed, surprised, and confused. “Uh..Uh..” Adam begins to say, dazed and confused. “Think about it handsome. I'll be back in a bit..” Mary Lou said, kissing him on the cheek. She walked away, humming to herself. Everyone just stared at Adam. “Did…Did she just…?” Oskar began to say. “I think…?” Owen began to say. Isaiah just stared at the ground.
“Bro, I think the waitress just offered to let us go free if-” DS-Boyfriend began to say, but Adam cut him off. “Boyfriend for everyone's safety DON'T finish that sentence,” Adam said. “...Are…Are you going to say something about what just happened….?” Isaiah asked. “I would rather not…” Adam said. Everyone just stared at each other. “You know what? I'll pay. That way we can simply move on.” DS said. “Really?” Owen asked. “Dude, when a waitress offers to bang your best friend to get out of a restaurant without paying, that's when you know you gotta get the f**k out of dodge,” DS said. “Hey, nice reference,” Isaiah said. “Thanks,” replied. “How can you afford to pay?” Owen asked.

“My parents are CEOS of big companies, that's how,” DS-Boyfriend said.
“Hey Adam, can you get the waitress?” DS-Boyfriend asked. “...Why me?” Adam asked. DS-Boyfriend gave a sh*t-eating grin. “Oh you gotta be kidding me,” Adam said agitated. “Hey, don’t look at me, she’s the one into you,” DS said. Adam rolled his eyes and got up, but when he turned around, he bumped into Mary Lou, who was walking back to the table. “Oh hey! Taking my offer?” Mary Lou asked. Before anything could happen DS stepped in. “Actually he was going to get you so we can get the hell outta here,” DS said. Mary Lou looked down before nodding her head. “Alright, we can have some fun another time then.” Mary Lou suggested. Adam turned red again as DS got up from his seat and handed Adam the Money. “Here you go,” Adam said. Mary took it and smiled. “Alright, you can go! Have fun boys!” Mary Lou said with a creepy smile. The others got up from their chairs and quickly left through the door. But before Adam could Leave, Mary Lou grabbed his arm. “...This was nice. Can we do this again sometime?” She asked. Adam shrugged. “I guess so,” Adam said. Mary Lou smiled. She took off Adam’s hat and rubbed his hair. “... It's a date then, see you later…alligator.” Mary Lou said. “YO ADAM, WHAT’S THE HOLD-UP, COME ON!” DS yelled. Adam turned and left through the door.

Eleanor was sitting outside on the steps in the backyard, thinking to herself about what transpired. She didn’t know what came over herself, she didn’t even mean to get so aggressive. She was about to just get up and go take a walk down the road when she noticed a toy Rabbit sitting near the gate. It wasn’t there before. It was grey, and one of its eyelids was drooped down. It had a red vest and a blue bowtie and its eyes were purple. “Where did you come from?” Eleanor asked. The toy roared to life. “R-R-R-Ready to Rocket!” the toy belted. Eleanor gasped out of surprise and dropped the toy, causing it to stutter on one line. “Bon is here- Bon is here- Bon is here- Bon is here- Bon is-” But then the rabbit stopped, its eye slowly turning to look at something in front of it. “H-H-Hi Bon!” Eleanor looked up and saw him. A large 7 ft rabbit animatronic stood in front of the gate, but he looked…damaged. The rabbit had a white latex mask, with a cigar in his mouth and its eyes glowed a bit white as it stood there.He wore a red bowtie connected to a dickie. The torso had a large hole in it, and it was…slightly lined with blood. His vest was tattered and damaged. It had a bunch of holes in it. He had a name tag on his vest “HELLO! MY NAME IS BON.” But it was slightly ripped. His lower arms were exposed with an endoskeleton, but the fingers looked like claws. His lower legs were exposed with an endoskeleton as well. Bon wasn’t looking at her at first before his eyes slowly tilted towards her. The rabbit slowly moved its head, a creaking sound coming from it. The mouth opened, and at first, nothing came out, but then it spoke. “M-My. Name. Is. BON.” The rabbit went to walk towards Eleanor when Esther opened the side door. “Hey. Knew I’d find you out here.” Esther mentioned. Eleanor looked back, but Bon was gone. It was as if..it were an illusion. She looked down and the toy rabbit was gone as well. “Oh, hey,” Eleanor said, trying to sound as normal as she could, albeit possibly hallucinating. Esther sat next to her. “Listen, I don’t know what that was back there, but I’m not going to lie, it was kind of cool,” Esther admitted. Eleanor smiled. “My name is Eleanor, what’s yours?” Eleanor asked. “Esther,” Esther replied. It seemed like she would continue the sentence, but she left it hanging. Eleanor smiled before she asked something, following up on something she heard earlier. “...Hey, can I ask you something?” Eleanor asked. Esther nodded. “...Why do you hate your brother?” Eleanor asked. Esther frowned a bit. “It’s…not that hate him. I’ve been in other homes before this one and most of the time my brothers were…assholes.” Esther explained. “And…is Adam one?” Eleanor asked. Esther sighed. “No...Not really, he’s been nothing but nice but..I just don’t believe it. Like how could someone just be so nice? I haven’t even seen him snap in anger yet. I know it's bound to happen eventually but still.” Esther admitted. Eleanor shrugged. “Guess I understand,” Eleanor whispered. Esther got up. “Well, it was nice meeting you, I’m going to go back into my room ok?” Esther asked. Eleanor gave a thumbs-up as Esther left.

“Right so, where is the arcade?” Oskar asked. DS looked at his phone. “Uh, somewhere around…Here!” DS shouted, pointing at a building. The Building was red, with white glowing neon lights. The arcade was called “THE NEON ARCADE!” “Dude this place looks awesome,” Adam stated. “Where did you find this place?” Owen asked. “I came here with my girlfriend once, gots a sick amount of arcade machines,” DS stated. “Well what are we waiting for, Let's go have some fun!” Isaiah shouted.

The gentlemen walked into the arcade, it was literally what you expected, mostly just an arcade, but there was a play zone, food court, and…a bowling rink! Yeah, that should be about it. “Dude this looks straight out of the 80s!” Oskar shouted. “How would you know? It’s not like you were FROM the 80s!” Adam replied jokingly. Oskar just stared at him, his face serious. “...Calm down! It was a joke!” Adam said, putting his hands up. Oskar made a sigh of relief. “Good, I thought I’d need to kill ya,” Oskar said, joking back. Owen stared at Oskar, his eyes wide with fear. Oskar looked at Owen, seeing the fear in his eyes. “...What?” Oskar asked. Owen didn’t respond, as if remembering…bad times. “Owen…Owen!” Adam shouted. Owen snapped out of his trance. “Oh, sorry...Just thinking of something.” Owen admitted. “Your girlfriend?” DS chuckled. "Something like that," Owen muttered, wanting to change the subject. Adam glanced at him, concerned but deciding to let it go."Alright, let's split up and see who can get the highest score on any game!" Adam suggested, trying to lighten the mood. "Winner gets bragging rights for the rest of the night." DS chuckled. “Bet I can get the highest score,” DS spoke cockily. “You sure about that?” Owen asked. DS looked up at Owen Smugly. “Wanna bet?” DS asked. “No, I just don’t wanna see you lose it.” Owen replied. “BET.” DS stated.

The boys went to different games as the hunt was On. Adam saw this cool game called “Death by AI”, while Oskar played a game called “Ring Out”, while DS and Isaiah played Air Hockey. Owen on the other hand, didn’t exactly know what he should play. Sure, there was Miss Pacman, but he didn’t feel like playing that without Abby. That’s when he noticed a game just..sitting there in the corner. It was an arcade game from King of the Jungle Cafe. But that closed a long time ago. How did it make its way here? The game was called “ZOO ESCAPE”. It was about King Louie and his animal friends being sent to a zoo and they needed to escape. Owen looked around. No one was watching him. Why not give the old game a go? Owen walked over and placed a token in. The game rocketed to life, the familiar jingle playing out. It put a smile on his face. And so, he began to play. Despite how old the game was, it was still fun to play. He was playing for a while when he sensed someone was watching him. He at first thought it was Adam, but he realized it wasn’t. It felt off. He paused the game and saw someone leaning against the arcade machine. It was a boy. He was wearing a black teeshirt with white stripes. It had the earth on it. He had a purple and blue bracelet on one of his arms. He wore tan pants with white shoes. His brown hair went slightly over his eyes. From his face, Owen could tell he had braces and freckles. “Enjoying the game, huh?” The boy asked. Owen nodded. “Yeah, it's fun, I used to play this all the time,” Owen admitted. The boy chuckled. “I used to love playing this thing.” The boy agreed. “..I’m Owen, what's your name?” Owen asked. “Ronny, nice to meet you. ..Though, I swear we met before.” Ronny pondered. “What do you mean?” Owen asked, tilting his head. Ronny shrugged. “Nevermind, it's nothing,” Ronny said. Owen wa about to respond when he heard Adam shouting from the other end of the room. “OWEN, WE’RE ABOUT TO HEAD OUT, YOU READY TO GO?” Adam cried. “Yeah, Coming!” Owen shouted back. Owen looked back, but Ronny was gone. He looked around, but couldn’t see any trace of him.

Adam and the others gathered near the entrance, their faces glowing with excitement from the night's activities. "So, who got the highest score?" Isaiah asked, smirking as he pointed at the air hockey table, where he had just narrowly defeated DS. “AI had nothing on me,” Adam replied. Oskar chuckled, shaking his head. "Ring Out was a blast. I reached level 15, but I think you might've beaten me, Adam." "Did anyone check the scores for Owen?" Isaiah asked, looking around.
Owen shrugged, a small smile on his face. "I was just playing an old favorite, 'Zoo Escape'. Didn't check my score." "Old games for old souls," DS joked, giving Owen a friendly nudge. Owen glared at him but shook it off. "Alright, boys, let's tally up and declare a winner."

The group walked to the main score screen near the entrance. After some friendly banter and a quick check, Adam emerged as the victor with his impressive score on "Death by AI". "Bragging rights secured," Adam announced, striking a triumphant pose. "Now, what's next on the agenda?" DS pulled out his phone to check the time. "It's getting late. Maybe we should start heading back." Adam yawned. “Yeah, I agree, come on gentlemen,” Adam commanded.

The group began their walk back to Adam's house. The air was cool and refreshing, a welcome change from the bustling, neon-lit arcade.
"So, what was up with that waitress at Applebee's?" Isaiah asked, breaking the silence. "She seemed...intense." Adam stopped walking and rubbed the back of his neck, clearly still embarrassed. "Yeah, Mary Lou's...interesting. I guess she likes to mess with me." "Mess with you? Dude, she was all over you," Oskar pointed out, raising an eyebrow. "You sure there's nothing more to that story?" Adam sighed. “Look, I don’t really know, I guess she’s just…like that. I have no idea what’s going on in her head. I guess she just has a unique way of interacting with people she likes.” Adam suggested. Owen looked around. “My house is nearby here, I’m gonna head out,” Owen said. “Right, see ya man.” DS waved. Owen waved goodbye as he separated from the group. “Actually, looking around now, I think my place is around here too. I’ll see you guys later ok?” Oskar said. “Alright, see you later man,” Isaiah replied. Oskar walked away, now it was just DS, Isaiah, and Adam here. “You know what? This was fun.” DS Remarked. “Yeah, it was,” Adam responded, a bit tired. “Just a question, why did you start speaking English out of nowhere?” Isaiah asked. “...Eh, I just felt like it.”

It took them a bit, but the trio got back to Adam’s house. “Welp, that was fun boys but I’m gonna head home, see yall later!” DS shouted. Adam waved goodbye as DS walked away. “Don’t know about you, but I’m tired,” Adam said. “Same, goodnight Adam!” Isaiah replied. Adam waved as they walked into the house, Adam walked into his room, as Isaiah walked downstairs.

Isaiah got back into the apartment downstairs and closed the door behind him. He breathed a sigh of relief. Unsure why he did that. “Isaiah.” A voice called “S**t!” Isaiah yelled out of fear. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you.” The voice responded. Isaiah focused his eyes and noticed two eyes staring at him from the darkness, but he recognized the voice. “It's ok Mom,” Isaiah replied. “Where did you go?” Naiomi asked. “I went with Adam and some of his friends on a boy's night out. Where’s Eleanor?” Isaiah asked. “In her room waiting for you,” Naiomi responded. “Thanks,” Isaiah replied. He was about to walk into the room when his mother stopped him. “...That Adam…is he any good?” Naiomi asked. “What do you mean?” Isaiah asked. “Is he treating you right?” Naiomi asked. “Yeah, if anything he’s like a brother,” Isaiah stated. Naiomi stared before nodding. “Alright, good. Goodnight Isaiah.” Naiomi said, with a deadpan voice. “Good Night Mom,” Isaiah responded. He entered the room as Naiomi looked at the door upstairs. But she decided against going up there, she’d need an invitation after all.

About to be 28, never had a girlfriend but have had a few sexual encounters. I’ve been described as on the edge on the autism spectrum (difficulty with socializing and loud venues) and I’m pretty scared of women. I’ve had my moments where I was able to be confident but I think those days are behind me. Objectively speaking I would be a very attractive prospect on paper (fit with a lean physique, 6 feet tall, educated to a masters level, over 20 countries traveled to, intelligent, pilot, decent salary, etc) but my track record says otherwise. Most of the situations i was in were doomed from the start. For example: i meet an amazing girl and we hit it off and it quickly deteriorated because of distance (we lived in different states or countries). Another example would be how most of the women that found me attractive (like 90 percent of them) were significantly older than me. And unfortunately the age gap never really allowed for anything beyond the physical to develop. Women my age or younger than me for some reason are not interested in me. Not blaming women. I know i am the problem. I own that. I’m just scratching my head at it all. I’ve been on dating apps and after nearly 10 years of using them i quit them entirely last year. My job has me very busy. My work schedule doesn’t afford me a lot of free time and dating apps just take up too much time and i was also getting tired of the constant disappointment in the apps. The juice didn’t feel worth the squeeze. I have been to bars and clubs before and i genuinely hate those places. I’ve attempted conversations in public places and the numbers i got amounted to nothing. My life has become a routine of work, exercise, sleep, repeat. Not much time for anything else. I have found peace yet i sometimes wonder if i’m doing things right. Some people ask me why i quit and i feel as though i just don’t want to play the game if i’m always going to lose. Anyone have any advice for this?

I have been struggling with vulvodynia and vaginismus for well over a year now and I have tested my fair share of relief products from over the counter to all natural to prescribed products. I have compiled a list of my favorite products and tips for reducing your pain and discomfort.
The Honey Pot: Anti-itch Soothing Wipes
https://thehoneypot.co/products/anti-itch-soothing-wipes
I always keep these wipes on me. They are perfect for itching, burning, and any other discomfort you may have. I’ll sub these in for tp if i’m having a real rough pain flare up. They are gentle, soothing, and immediately effective. If you are going to pick up one of the items on the list, this should be it!
The Honey Pot: Soothing Wash
https://thehoneypot.co/products/soothing-wash
I bought this in pair with the wipes and I will say it’s not as powerful but definitely helps for irritation in the shower. My vulvodynia can be aggravated by shower products and I have found that rinsing with this at the end of the shower really helps..
Coconut Oil (Any brand)
I have found that a lot of my discomfort and pain can be traced to lack of moisture. I like to take a little bit of coconut oil and moisturize the vulva. It has soothing effects as well as bringing the moisture back to your most gentle skin. It’s just like putting lotion on after the shower, sometimes your kitty needs some too.
4% Lidocaine (Prescribed Solution)
When the pain is completely unbearable, sometimes the only thing that could offer relief was the lidocaine. I got prescribed a liquid solution that I would apply on a cotton round. It definitely came in clutch when I could anticipate the pain. I would go to school for 7 hours a day and I knew I would be sitting for most of it. I would apply the lidocaine a couple times throughout the day to lessen the burning feeling. The only negative aspect is when you can’t anticipate a flare up, so you have to wait for the numbness to kick in.
Good Clean Love: Restore Moisturizing Vaginal Gel
https://goodcleanlove.com/collections/assortment/products/restore%C2%AE-moisturizing-vaginal-gel-products?variant=42223652339896
To be honest, I have used this product the least out of the list, however, that doesn’t mean it won’t work for you. I haven’t had a significant amount of relief with the internal moisturizer to share many thoughts on it, but it was helpful after sex to reintroduce moisture. I find that my pain can be intensified after the act due to the friction and stripping of my natural moisture.
Good Clean Love: Relief Gel Pain & Itch with Lidocaine 4%
https://goodcleanlove.com/collections/assortment/products/relief-gel-pain-and-itch-with-lidocaine?variant=41612133826744
This product is fairly equivalent to the coconut oil, however, it has that little extra lidocaine for the increased relief. If you're looking for something more natural, go for the coconut oil, otherwise invest in this product. It was great for quick bathroom trips during the day to refresh moisture and help calm the pain. I will say though, the prescribed lidocaine is much stronger in effectiveness when it comes to numbing the burning sensation.
Donut Pillow: Amazon
This was extremely helpful for long periods of sitting and road trips. Sitting for long amounts of time is one of my biggest antagonizers for my vulvodynia so this pillow was a huge lifesaver. It made sitting so much more bearable, especially in combination with the moisturizers and lidocaine.
Dilators: Amazon
I was instructed by my physical therapist to try out a set of dilators to tackle the vaginismus. I can definitely say they made the biggest difference. Not only does it help lessen the tension with sex, it also helps tackle the fear and anticipation of pain. As you graduate sizes, the pain lessens and soon, sex does too. A tip my pt shared with me was to get dilators that resemble your partner. For example, if they have a curve, find a curved dilator set. Customize your treatment to make it the most effective for you!
Tips:

• If tp hurts too much, try flushable wipes or baby wipes. (make sure they are fragrance free and sensitive skin safe)
• If tampons are hard to insert or painful, try lube. You can buy tampon lubricant (a popular brand is Marlow) on amazon (easy for on the go) or do it yourself.
• Be careful with shampoo and conditioner! It may wash down in places you don’t notice and cause irritation.
• Sleep commando. Especially if you have comfy, loose pjs pants.
• If nothing else helps, take an eddie (ouid has been a huge help with managing my flare ups, but it’s not for everyone)

I hope this was helpful to those struggling as well and if you have any favorite products or tips, please share them! I’m still trying to manage my vulvodynia and vaginismus, so advice is greatly appreciated. <3

Hey so Idk if I can ask this question here but I am gonna go to a college this year and wanted to know how and what to learn after I have learnt a programming language. We learnt some basic Java in our school in 9th and 10th class as I was in ICSE school and I loved it so much that I learnt some more things that were not taught in my school from yt like Arrays, Inheritance, Polymorphism and loved every bit of it. I also learnt how to make a simple website with HTML and CSS and also did some projects with that knowledge. I didn't particularly like the designing part with HTML and CSS but I liked adding different behaviours to buttons with JS. So now that I gave JEE, I decided to revise what I had learnt in Java since I hadn't coded anything for 3 years and also learn the rest of the Java basics that I didn't learn before like Interfaces, Exception handling, Enum classes etc. from Telusko channel. It was an amazing 12 hrs video
So since I am loving to code so far and it doesn't feel like studying to me at all, I want to learn as much as I can before my college starts. I have heard people say to make projects after learning something but Idk how can I make any projects with the current Java understanding that I have. I don't have any GUI or ways to make buttons or anything. But I have also heard about some frameworks like Spring, something like JDBC, Hibernate and stuff to make projects and stuff. So should I learn those to make projects? If yes, then were can I learn those? Telusko himself has a Spring course, so should I watch that? And please recommend only free resources in either English or Hindi.
I also know that DSA is important for interviews, competitive programming and also just to get a better understanding of coding and I also want to learn that either after or before things like Spring and such based on you guys' recommendation. What resources can I learn DSA from? I have heard of a few channels and websites for this like Aditya Verma, Abdul Badri, Freecodecamp, Striver's TakeUForward(DSA Sheet) and InterviewBit. From the reviews I have heard that Striver's TakeUForward(DSA sheet) and InterviewBit DSA couse are the best DSA courses. But what would you suggest for a complete beginner like me? I don't know anything in DSA. I know that I would have to solve leetcode for DSA but I don't even know the basics for now so where can I learn the basics? And if I take the TakeUForward course, should I solve the GeeksforGeeks question links given in the course or should I just solve Leetcode questions after learning the basics of a topic?
I know all of this is a lot but I am really confused. I don't know what would be the best place to start. Thank you for reading all this crap and a second thank you if you respond to any of the questions I asked

The most effective study methods for academic success boil down to:
Time management
There are countless time management techniques, but one beautiful thing about going to school is that a lot of your time is managed for you.
The week and when you need to be in class is arranged.
Professors tell you when assignments are due, etc.
Heck, when I was in university they even gave us calendars for use to write in our due dates.
So the number one thing is to combine what you know with the tools everyone has: the calendar.
In many cases, you can also get advanced notices from professors by simply talking to them before the semester even begins.
You would also do well to explore techniques like the Eisenhower Matrix, time blocking and the Pareto Principle.
Above all, make time management something you study unto itself.
There's no one-size-fits-all approach. But those who study it as the discipline it is will win.
Study Environment Optimization
Studying effectively cannot be random or subject to interruptions.
If you have to study on transit, invest in custom ear plugs of the kind musicians use, not noise-cancelling headphones that will put you at risk in the case of an emergency. Custom ear plugs have filters that let you still hear without being bothered by shrill noises and you can switch between light and heavy filters.
Having multiple study locations worked out in advance is a great strategy because you can walk between them and percolate your thoughts – literally remembering more by simply getting in a bit of exercise. I used to call this "Road Work" when I was in university.
When at home, put a "Do not disturb" sign on your door. Make it clear to others that you are studying and train them to respect the hours you want to put it. Do not compromise. It's your future.
Note-Taking Strategies
There are many different kinds of note-taking methods. My fave is to use Zettelkasten in combination with Memory Palaces.
These two videos detail how the Zettelkasten Method operates in combination with the Memory Palace technique:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eIQRiqQFKQY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrN0kaE6DkY
Memory techniques
Like time management, the topic of memory improvement is huge. Make sure to spend a good three months learning all of its ins-and-outs.
The key techniques you'll want to master are:
The Memory Palace A Alphabet System (or pegword system) A Number System (usually based on the Major System) A Symbol System A Spaced Repetition system
These accelerated learning techniques may feel like you're building an airport in the beginning, but think about it:
You do need airports to launch and land planes as effectively and efficiently as possible. It's the same with memory techniques.
You can also do yourself a favor and learn more about memory science. It will teach you about how the mind and memory work and give you ideas that will only arise if you know a little bit about what researchers have found.
Stress Management For Students
Don't make my mistake. I drank like a fish and ate poorly throughout university. This meant that a lot of the experience was lost to depression.
Sure, memory techniques helped… but I can't help but imagine how much more successful I would have been during and after if I'd had better ways of coping with the stress.
Diet, fitness, mindfulness practices, time off with friends for positive and healthy recreation. This is not complicated, though when you're young, impulsivity can certainly make it seem that way.
Exam Preparation Strategies
This basically comes back to properly using your calendar and memory techniques.
For the benefits of what is sometimes called state-dependent or context-dependent memory, it can be useful to study where you will take your exams. It's advisable to use Memory Palaces based on these exam rooms whenever possible.
(Those terms are the kinds of insider memory hacks you'll enjoy only when you understand your memory science, and there are many more that can help you with your exam prep.)
Take mock tests as much as you can. Reflect on what you're learning often. Talk about it with other students.
Don't cram and avoid wasting time on the fantasy that there are any "subject-specific study tips." Maybe if you're in nursing school and need to have patient bodies in specific position, but generally tests are about words, numbers and symbols. Learn how to commit them to memory and talk as much as you can about the information so it is well-exercised before you sit for your exams.
Form Effective Study Groups
There are many benefits to group study if you can select solid group members. This can be tricky, but one way to do it involves a slightly involved strategy:
Try to be part of a club or association. I was president of the English Undergraduate Student Association at York University in Toronto, for example. This drew precisely the right people because anyone who wanted to be part of the association already loved English Literature by default.
After you find the right members, it's just a matter of scheduling regular meetings based on decent agendas and following reasonable time limits so you don't burn out.
One thing my fave study group in university did a lot was to share reading. In other words, we'd each tackle an article or book and then present on it.
Ultimately, you still have to do the reading yourself, but it forms a nice mental framework that makes reading faster and easier when someone you can speak with has summarized the core ideas. These days, you can search YouTube and podcasts for this kind of summarization much of the time, but it's still not the same as being in a study group with other people.
You also get experience with peer teaching and tutoring this way, which is hugely beneficial for your memory. Even if you never intend to teach yourself, the simple effort that goes into preparing and delivering short presentations will benefit you in the short-term for your exams and long-term in your career. Collaborative learning also gives you something powerful to put on your resume, especially if your study group is linked with a formal university institution or group.
Work On Your Reading And Comprehension Skills
The main shortcut here is to simply read a lot, boost your vocabulary as you go by memorizing terms and write summaries as much as you can.
Doesn't sound like a shortcut, I know. But it really is. It helps develop pattern recognition and that's how you ultimately wind up quickly assessing the key points and inferring many things correctly.
Be humble, though. Mistakes will always happen, so be willing to go back and read things again.
Another key aspect of reading is to challenge yourself. Get outside of your comfort zone and read above your level at least a few times a week.
Don't worry about whether you understand what you're reading or not. Soon, moments of insight will arise.
Even if it doesn't happen soon, rest assured that will. There are aspects of philosophy that didn't come clear to me until after 30 years of reading. I'm not ashamed of this at all. I just haven't read and reflected enough to connect the dots. But if I had read above my level sooner, I probably would have had the insights sooner.
Motivation and Discipline
Technically, motivation is not necessary when you have systems. That's what discipline is all about.
That said, it's useful to know about intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. These will be arranged differently in different people as some people respond well to threats of pain whereas others respond better to promises of reward.
Know thyself.
Hire a coach if you have to, as it will be worth it in the end. Many exist and some universities have behavioral science programs, learning disability labs and other institutions where you can learn more directly about these issues.
Finally, you can learn about the difference between tonic and phasic dopamine relative to how the Default Mode Network of your brain is in a kind of battle with the Task Positive Network. This area is kind of heavy on the brain science, but well worth an afternoon or two to figure out the implications in your life.
Just watch out: When optimizing your dopamine levels for motivation, you could wind up enlightened and have your ego make you think you're better than everyone else… which would not be enlightenment. But it'll sure feel that way.
That's why the next category is so important.
Make Time To Learn Critical Thinking
A lot of education involves humans who weigh what they teach and how they teach it based on subjective agendas. It's pretty difficult for anyone not to do that.
When you spend some time developing your critical thinking skills, you'll be able to determine when teachers and writers/video creators, etc. are being too subjective or otherwise slaves to any number of cognitive biases.
Likewise, you'll be able to spot them in yourself and weed many of them out before they can distract you.
The simplest way to use critical thinking while studying is to put Why, Where, When, Who and How up on a Memory Wheel and constantly rotate through it.
As you learn more about different thinkers, you can also start to ask, "What would Freud say about this? What would Skinner say? What would x say?"
To do this, study as many of the sciences and Liberal Arts as you possibly can. If you don't know where to start, go through the Trivium and then the Quadrivium. Knowing how to think through those seven lenses and ask what the major figures in each field would generally say will help you "triangulate" just about any issue and think both objectively and subjectively about it and know which is which.
Self-Assessment And Improvement
Ultimately, the best judge of your progress is you.
To make sure you're giving yourself good materials to judge yourself by, journal, ideally daily.
If you can, keep two journals:
A snapshot journal that simply lists what you did on a particular day.
A discursive journal where you reflect on your thoughts about how things went.
There are many formal products you can buy that will help you journal in particular ways. The Freedom Journal has been one of my faves, but the real tip is to experiment with as many journaling styles as you can in the two main styles I just mentioned.
As you can tell, there's not that much when it comes to embracing a wide number of learning strategies. Apply these tips to the study resources you need to cover on your way to the exam room and you'll do well.
Take Care Around Technology And Studying
There are tons of apps that can help "gamify" these activities, but at the end of the day, gamification is really just a mental metaphor. If it doesn't work for you, find a better metaphor.
Nir Eyal discussion the power of mental metaphors based on some research in Indistractable and more on the matter is found in The Victorious Mind by yours truly. There was even recently a Duke University study showing just how powerful adopting mental metaphors can be for remembering information.
Academic success can indeed be enjoyable, and all the more so when you work out what will make it enjoyable and meaningful for you. Personalize as much of the journey as you can, constantly applying critical thinking to every suggestion you come across and all of your study experiences will become much, much more rewarding.

Inebriated Conversations

After eight long and grueling hours, we began our rapid descent from the heavens. I never really got the: “did it hurt when you fell from heaven” pickup line until we hit the tarmac. The force of the impact nearly knocked my head into the seat in front of me, so fuck yeah, it hurt when I fell from heaven. I’d imagine even Lucifer himself had a softer landing than we did. He also didn’t have to endure the stomach churning and nauseating food that was served on the plane, but I digress, at least we had finally reached our destination. A land not so far away that only varied in appearance, but the truth was this mystical and magical land, deep down, was no different from the place I grew up or attend college. As I waited in purgatory, the security line, I began wondering if I was dreaming. Was I really in London or even a different country for that matter? The line, which seemed so much longer than the European and the U.K., line was filled with fellow Americans. Perhaps they are still acrimonious about us beating them in the Revolutionary War, so they decided that this was ample punishment for our victory. Whatever the case, we finally made it through security, then collected our bags. I saw my relatively new bag with the bowtie on the handle and was relieved that it had not been lost or left in the United States. We met our tour guide, Emma, who at first glance seemed to be very different. She had an unusual hair cut that was much shorter than ones most woman her age would have, but I soon learned that her appearance, much like London’s, would not be any indication of what lies beyond. When we finally escaped from limbo, the airport, we were put on a coach bus, and taken to our hotel. I was exhausted and in need of a shower, but all I could do was drop my luggage off, then swiftly return to the lobby. As we stood outside in the crisp, refreshing air, we were handed our subway passes, or as they say, “tube passes.” We followed our guide, Emma, on a short walk to the underground. When our group finally descended the stairs and made our way to the map, a map Virgil couldn’t even navigate, we began our journey that involved the same punishment as those afforded to people in the eighth level of hell. We walked endlessly, 10.6 miles, and viewed the most popular tourist attractions London had to offer. I was surrounded by beautiful statues, fantastic architecture, and attractive people whose dialect could captivate almost anyone. At first, like everyone else, I was completely and utterly captivated by it all, because it was a completely different world. Our group finished the day with a mile and a half walk to the Globe Theatre, where we saw Shakespeare’s play, Comedy of Errors. My fellow students and I stood, as our professors sat comfortably watching the play. During the production, all I could think about was my numb legs and my aching feet. I tried drowning the pain with a few glasses of overly priced and nasty wines, but my attempt was to no avail. For once in my life, I knew what it was like to experience actual physical agony, not just the tedious and never-ending emotional kind. It wasn’t the lake of fire or some frozen wasteland, but that shit was still excruciating. After the play, we struggled to find a new passageway to the hot and crowded underworld, the tube, but luckily, I had service on my phone, so we found it. We finally made it back to the hotel around eleven in the evening. After a long day of flying and an excess of walking, I had never been as excited as I was to climb into a bed that was, quite frankly, too small for my six-foot-five physique. To anyone reading this, don’t worry, I’m not planning on giving a day to day synopsis of what I saw while I was abroad, because the sights aren’t what truly matter. I mean, I could just rant about Buckingham Palace and its beauty, Windsor Castle and its enormous layout, the Tower of London and its history, the Natural History Museum and its priceless artifacts, Stratford upon Avon and Shakespeare’s life, Oxford and it’s impressive library, Cornwall and its tranquil beaches, the Minack Theatre and its sublimity, or the Ashmolean Museum and its Jeff Koons exhibition, but that shit has no genuine meaning to it. I’m not going to waste your time by writing about some tourist sites that you could see in almost any travel magazine about the U.K., so if that’s what you are looking for stop reading. I suggest you pick up a travel magazine and read it until you are content, but if you want to read something real, then I suggest you continue. The reality is, the things I’ll take from this trip are the inebriated conversations I had with others. I not only gave these people advice about their lives; I learned something new about my own. I, ***** *******, am the Barstool Prophet, who descended from the heavens prepared to spout wisdom and retardation. Before I divulge the serious and deep conversations I experienced abroad, I want to let you know that the other person and I were under the influence of alcohol. I know what you are thinking, but alcohol has been a part of human culture since 7,000 B.C.; to put that into perspective, man invented alcohol before the wheel. From what I've seen in my lifetime some people drink to forget, some drink to remember, some drink to punish themselves, and some drink to converse with others. I fall into the latter category, but while I was in the U.K., I encountered people whose purpose for drinking was similar to mine as well as people that would fall in the other categories. I never really got the saying, "It's better to be a glass half full person, than a glass half empty person." I get the whole positivity aspect of the saying; however, I'd trust a "glass half empty person" far more, because they'd just order another drink. I am in no way trying to promote alcoholism; in reality, I am just trying to explain how alcohol can fuel an in-depth conversation. The Latin proverb "In Vino Veritas" states that "In Wine there is Truth"; wiser words have never been spoken. Alcohol allows people to speak their hidden thoughts and desires, especially to a stranger like me. 

Emma

As I stated earlier, Emma was our tour guide, who sported a relatively short and somewhat masculine haircut. Luckily, I had consumed enough alcohol at the time of her arrival to ask her why she chose that specific style. After giving me a vague: “because I like it” response, she clutched her glass of wine and forced it down. We talked about her occupation and how lonely traveling could get, but she seemed like she was familiar with the feeling of loneliness. She asked me what I wanted to do when I grew up, and I said, “I want to be a lawyer.” Emma slammed her glass down and began to laugh hysterically; she said, “Seriously?” I found her response quite peculiar until she revealed that her ex-husband was a lawyer. He was devoted to his job and always worked long hours, which did not bother her, at first. I surmise that his lack of interest in her is what led to their separation. After a long moment of silence, I gulped my drink down and gained the courage to ask: “do you think the relationship you had with him prepared you for this job?” She paused and began to think intently. She took a sip of her wine, laughed, and said, “I guess so, that’s one positive thing I got out of the relationship.” The chat continued with talk of food, politics, weather, and other small-talk topics, but then we somehow made it back to her haircut. Emma told me that she was bi-sexual, which, despite the tell-tell signs in her appearance, isn’t something she shares with most people. I told her that homophobia and racism is a major part of the culture that I grew up in, which surprised her. She couldn’t comprehend how someone with that upbringing could be so openminded. I responded with one word and one word only, “Self-Awareness.” I came to the realization that in life people are consciously and unconsciously molded by those around them, but at the end of the day, it is their choice to decide who they are and what they believe. Emma’s marriage may not have been picture perfect, but she was still able to take something positive from it. As much as we don’t want to admit it, even the worst of our relationships impact us in a positive way. 

Phillip Goldsmith

Before I get into this incredibly intense and somewhat depressing story, I’d like to describe its setting. I was sitting on a red velvet couch, drinking Jack Daniels Honey in a tall glass with one ice cube. I know what you are thinking, but I was not in a strip club. Our hotel’s game room/ bar area looked like an American strip club, not that I’ve ever been in one. Like seriously, if a few poles and dancers were added, I’d feel like I was at the Red Carpet, which is a strip club near where I live, but again, I may or may not have been there. I had finished half my bottle when Phil walked in, and I could immediately tell that he was hurting on the inside. Excluding dumbass frat guys, not very many people drink vodka straight out of the bottle with the intention of finishing it. He sat next to us, so I reached my hand out and said, “Hey man, what’s your name?” He said, “Hello, I am Phillip Goldsmith.” I responded as anyone would and said, “That’s a badass name!” We talked about life, love, and women as most guys do. We were both close to finishing our bottles when I noticed a tattoo on his arm that said, “Harry.” Who was this Harry? He certainly didn’t strike me as a Royalist, so I knew he didn’t just get the prince’s name on his arm for shits and giggles. I gulped down a few more sips of my drink and slowly placed it back down. I looked him in the eyes and said, “who is Harry?” His response shook every bone in my body to their core. After holding his tears back and ingesting some more of his vodka, Phil looked at me and said that “Harry was his son.” Was? He continued speaking, and I learned that Harry died three days after he was born. That tragic loss would result in a few other loses in his life, his wife, and his faith. Phil told me that he used to go to his grave on his birthday and Christmas, but he couldn’t do it anymore. He didn’t see a point in it any longer. Surprisingly I felt the urge to tell him that “God loved him and that he would see his son again.” I am in no way a prolific believer; I’d probably put myself in the wayward son category. However, something came over me, and I felt like I needed to tell him that. We had both finished our drinks, and as we were saying our goodbyes, he thanked me. I don’t know why, but he did. My encounter with Phil taught me that when you meet someone, you don’t know what they are going through, but through love and compassion, you can have a positive impact on them. 

Lexie

Lexie is a beautiful and intelligent young lady from Kansas City, Missouri. We met and chatted throughout the week because she was a part of our EF group. One night, after Lexie and I had more than our share of wine, we began to talk about our plans for the future. Before I tell this story, you must know, I have the unfortunate handicap of flirtation when I drink, but she was able to move past my impulsive outburst. I think my accidental comments about her beautiful eyes, stunning smile, and cute laugh allowed her to open up to me. Despite what you are thinking, I like to flirt because I enjoy making women smile, I don’t always do it for self-serving reasons. Anyways, as I said, we started discussing our plans for the future, but one can’t divulge their future in an inebriated state without discussing their past. I gave my whole spiel about wanting to be a prosecutor who would later become a congressman, then a Supreme Court or D.C. Circuit Court justice. She said, “Wow! That’s quite the plan. I want to go into Law as well.” I hastily responded by saying, “That’s sexy. I could see it.” We both laughed, but then she said, “I don’t know though, Law School is hard.” She didn’t strike me as a person who couldn’t handle a challenge, so I asked, “Why do you think you wouldn’t excel? You present yourself as someone who does.” She tried not to blush, then sipped her extremely sweet white wine. I know it was sweet because I made the unfortunate decision of trying it; it was so sweet that even a rock would get a hangover from it. Anyways, she started talking about high school and how people thought she was unintelligent. I laughed and thought about how I experienced that very same thing. I said, “Fuck that, screw them. God, high school girls are mean. Do you actually believe that crap?” She giggled and said, “Of course not, but it’s still in the back of my head.” I grabbed another beer from Raj, the bartender at the hotel. Yes, we were on a first name basis; did you expect anything less from the barstool profit? I sat back down and leaned in, intent on getting this point across to Lexie. I sipped my beer, ever so casually, and said, “Listen, we all remember the immature negatives of our high school existence, but this is now. At some point, we have to grow up into the people we want to be, not who everyone tells us to be.” She then asked, “Why are you so wise?” (You are probably thinking “sure she did,” but I swear that is what she said; I’m not a narcissist using creative license to praise myself.) I accredited it to my amazing parents as well as the shitty ex-girlfriends, situations, and friends I had experienced. We continued talking about a lot of random things like abortion, racism in America, and other pseudo-political topics. It was 3 am. when we finally decided it was time to go to bed. I hugged her and told her to use those negative voices as motivation. Again, I was thanked for the conversation, which, at this point, seems to be a normal thing for strangers to do. My conversation with Lexie made me realize that, when we travel, the baggage we carry isn’t only the physical kind. That tedious and deep emotional baggage also comes along for the journey. Most people, who travel somewhere, will lose a physical part of their baggage, like a sock, shirt, or something of that nature. Lexie did something most could not and do not, she left a piece of her emotional baggage, the night I spoke to her in the bar. 

Szymon

Szymon was in the bar area when I got to the hotel. He had a very interesting accent, which was far different from the ones I had heard that week, so I asked, “Where are you from?” He said, in a relatively drunken manner, “I am from Poland. You’re from America, aren’t you.” I responded with a firm: “Yes.” The conversation proceeded with small talk, but as I had a few more beers, the topics shifted to more serious topics. I was recently in a Holocaust history class, so of course, the first serious thing I asked was if he had been to Warsaw to see the Concentration Camps. He paused in silence, so I said, “Talk about hell on Earth, the holocaust was some fucked up shit.” After saying that he seemed to gain the courage to tell me that he was Jewish. He told me about the things his parents endured as children and how his grandfather had died in a concentration camp. He told me how he had rejected his faith after hearing these horrible stories. He said to me, “What could faith do for someone. The Jews have been persecuted countless times for it.” I understood where he was coming from, but at the same time, I didn’t. He had real reasons for his existential doubt, and I truly could not say the same. I got a shot of vodka from Raj; threw it back, and said, “Our faith shapes our decisions in life, even if we tell ourselves it doesn’t.” He sat pondering my words, but he seemed bored of the discussions about faith. I quickly changed the subject and asked him, “Why are you in London?” I learned that he travels all over continental Europe cleaning asbestos out of old buildings. I responded as any young person would and said, “that’s cool. I’d love to travel all over Europe.” He said, “it might be for a young single guy, but I hardly see my kids. I honestly wouldn’t be surprised if my wife cheated on me.” I couldn’t believe he would say something that personal, but then again, that’s what alcohol does. I suggested that he quit the job and find one closer to home. He laughed and said, “Ugh… you sound like my wife right now.” I bought him another beer and said, “maybe you should listen to her.” He looked at me and said, “maybe you are right ha-ha.” My conversation with Szymon taught me that it doesn’t matter how much money you make or how many places you get to travel on the company’s dime. What matters in life is family and the ones you love. By the time we stopped talking, I could hardly understand him, but he shook my hand and said, “have fun in London.” I laughed and said, “I will, call your wife tonight and tell her you love her.” He smiled and nodded, assuring me he would. It was time to leave, so I packed my things and got ready to go to the airport. I finally boarded my fiery chariot that would bring me back to the heavens. I forced down a few shots of Jack Daniels, closed my eyes, and wondered if the Barstool Prophet would have a second coming. Would I ever return to this amazing city and spout words of wisdom and retardation? Would I ever drink two whole liters of cider and wake up with a black eye? Well, that one is a definite no, but so many questions are left unanswered. Did I actually impact those that I talked to? Did they even remember the conversation? As much as I want to believe I did, I’ll never know. We don’t know what this life holds or what our encounters with strangers will yield; all we can do is give it our best shot and live like we are dying… (Que inspiring music). 

Let me know if the foundation of this sardonic and surface level literature reference writing has potential… first ever post!

(Likely throw-away account because I don't want to associate this with my main, but I'll keep an eye out for replies anyway.)
Heads up: This is already getting pretty long, and I'm just starting, so...
I'm not sure this is truly all that horrific, but it sucked in the moment, at least.
So; small bit of backstory: this was like... I want to say 3 years ago? just a year or two into the pandemic. A couple people I know had a friend that offered to DM for DnD for the first time; and none of us had played DnD before. One of the two was super excited about it, because she'd just recently (at the time) gotten into Critical Role. The other was also super excited, because he was just interested in the game in a general sense (they're currently playing semi-weekly with an online group, really glad this didn't ruin the game for them).
I didn't feel as enthused; I was going to give it a shot (I'd had a couple of interesting ideas before then, but I honestly think I'd have a better (though still not great) time as the DM), but I didn't see myself even finishing the campaign, at first.
Then I got into character creation, and my muse started bouncing off the walls with ideas.
I ended up going with a Tiefling fighter (I forget what his name was, but I'll call him... Kamdo), for the sake of ease of use, and learning the game, while also providing the DM with opportunities to have fun with character interactions.
Kamdo's backstory was pretty sparse, but I didn't want to overwhelm the DM, considering I was an aspiring author (and still am, truth be told), and even as little as I wrote (barely two paragraphs) was like... 3 times as much as every other player, and probably the total length of every other character on the board for our first party.
One of these people ended up playing a half-elf... Sorcerer, I think? I honestly don't remember much of that character. (her name was some poetic thing about song, so I'll call her Sonata)
The other ended up playing a... I think it was a human druid? he was a fairly forgettable character, beings as he hardly ever spoke up. (I think his name was Renald?)
The DM played a dwarven... Paladin? yeah, that sounds right. (I'll call her Barryl)
Now, at the time, I didn't know that DMPCs even had a name, let alone a reputation, so I didn't even have the context to think to protest. Though, even now, I don't think they can't be done well, just that this one didn't even come close (not that I'd know, mind).
Anyway, session 1 comes along, and our characters meet for the first time; barely any real roleplay- the thing I was most looking forward to, but that's forgivable, I figure; beings that our group was made up of a new DM, and all newbie party. 'It's probably not that strange', I figured (my hind brain is much more socially aware than my front brain).
Now; important note: I'm not very personable in... person (I probably could've worded that better, but it's not coming to me right now). I don't like talking, I don't like people, I have severe social anxiety (my hands shake while in front of a cashier), and I've met the DM all of like 4 times, each for maybe 3 minutes, up to this point.
It was never going to be easy for me to act like a personable character, so instead I leaned into my natural quietness. Kamdo was an orphan from a nondescript village nestled in the foothills of a mountain, and spent much of his life as a librarian to earn a living, while dealing with the racism of a small town (the only bit of anything weird I gave his backstory was that said town had zero information on magic, despite having a relatively large library).
Eventually, he gets sick of living there, and decides to train under the town guardsmen, before taking off into the wilds on his first adventure!
The first major obstacle out party faced was... a door. I wish I was kidding.
The first thing that happened was that someone tried to pick the door open. Then someone kicked it. Both failed, beings as the rolls were something like 7, 8, and 5, or something. On a D20. I did the natural thing, and just reached over to open the door (this is semi-important later). It doesn't budge.
I shrug, and, figuring that my character, being decked out head-to-toe in plate armor, two pole-arms, and a heavy shield, could break the thing down. Kamdo got a running start, just to be sure, and charged!
Nat 20.
Kamdo breaks down the door, full tilt, and runs face first into some nasty webbing. Well, Sonata irritatedly extracts Kamdo from the webbing, while Berryl and Renald clear out the rest of the room.
The entire campaign is to this roughly this tune.
So, at the end of this dungeon, there's a Drider encounter (I glanced at the stat sheet one time, and ever since, I've been wondering how the DM intended for us to win that encounter), which ends in the thing falling off the ceiling, and promptly taking half its health in damage. Kamdo ended up finishing it off with a pitying thrown dagger, which he had collected from an earlier room.
The entire thing was pretty comedic, and overall rather fun, but I was already beginning to see the cracks. I had a bad habit of 'making sure' the right dice were rolled for the right checks, and was well and truly bored during combat. I just... It had its moments, but I kept spacing out, waiting for my turn, resulting in Kamdo attacking an already downed opponent. It wasn't great.
But, I figured I'd stick it out for the long haul (at the time), for the sake of the other players.
Fast forward 2 fucking sessions of walking, and we're coming up on Baludur's Gate.
Now, quick thing (I'm sorry, this is how my brain works, bare with me please): the DM had been hyping up Baldur's Gate both in- and out- of game for a month by this point. She couldn't wait for us to get there.
But first, I got the sniffles, and self isolated, thereby missing a session, but trusted my mother to play my character adequately in the meantime.
When I came back, nobody bothered to fill me in, and I was dumped into the middle of a combat scenario, against a hoard of Evil Dudes. I didn't even know what species they were, nevermind why we were fighting them.
Just "So, roll initiative!" From the DM to start the session.
'Fuckin', okay then.' I figure to myself, saying nothing aloud.
I had no idea what was going on the entire session, but apparently, we won! (yay?)
So, after the combat encounter was over, I finally got some context, because people were talking to each other now. Apparently, the same Drider that I killed back in session 2? 3? was back at it, with a hoard of cultists to back it up.
Now I'm reall confused, because, well... Duh! WTF was even going on here? I distictly remember killing that thing, yet here we are, fighting its cultist minions! Just... whatever, I eventually let it go, because I was on the recieving end of some equally confused looks, like obviously the Drider that we had no business fighting was back, who else would it be?
Fuckin-
Whatever.
So, our little mottley crew runs into a couple NPCs who are leaving the city (it's a city right? I'm not misremembering that?). They tell us about how the guards put one of their friends in prison for no good reason, and there's a person in the wizard's guild that might be able to help us with Sonata's character quest!
'Cool!' I think! 'Some real nice Roleplay could come out of this; my character's looking to multiclass into wizard; it'll be a neat diversion, and I'll have some fun playing this character that I haven't had any real fun with yet!'
NOPE!
The other players decide that they're going to help break out these two random people's friend from prison!
Why, you may ask?!
...
...
...
So, we make it into the city, and the first thing the party does is, guess what?!
Break a convicted felon out of prison!
They didn't even wait to go shopping first!
Now; I'm absolutely flabbergasted by this point. Hopefully, understandably so.
So; the party breaks the convicted felon out of prison, and immediately makes for the docks; apparently one of the now 3 4(! fucking) DMPCs 'has a friend'.
Deep breaths.
So, we go off into the waters, having spent all of 1 real-life hour in Baldur's Gate "The place where everything happens." - direct quote from the DM.
During this boat ride, one of the DMPCs gives old Kamdo (He's somehow the oldest character in the party at a whopping 32) a spell shield (mirror shield? it was a shield that had advantage blocks against magic). I look down at my level (5, I think?) fighter, and just kind of cringe, since my AC is like 24 already, and with this new shield it jumped to like 26. Kamdo is untouchable without an advantage roll.
So, naturally, we fight a goddamn Sea monster next (one more monster we really shouldn't have fought) but we pulled it off... somehow.
Now I was incredibly bored, and the DM seemed to pick up on that, having me try to train Renald. Kamdo did that, and 2 sessions later we finally made it back to land.
Directly into Sonata's character quest.
Guess what we fought while we were there?
A fucking level 15 Lich.
Said lich TPKs us. It hit Kamdo Through his magic advantage sheild, and one shot him.
That was the last straw for me. I had Sonata's player play Kamdo's arc to fruition, and left. (He ended up settling on an island in book heaven, with Sonata pining after him, for anyone interested.)
I haven't played DnD since.
Honestly, I kinda-sorta feel bad; because the campaign fizzled out not long after I left. I can't help but wonder what would've happened if I'd still stuck it out.
I sincerely hope you all had more fun reading this than I had experiencing it, because I just don't trust fast, and that means I don't have anyone I'd even be interested in playing with anymore.

TLDR enclosed for each section directly under their respective subheading in bolded font

1. CONTENTS

The following guide has been split into these sections: - 1. CONTENTS - 2. So how/why does it work? - 3. ITEMS - 4. RUNES - 5. Core Mechanics of Nami W - 6. Final Words
As per request of a fellow fishie, I have come forth with a rune page that has been rising in popularity on enchanters: First Strike. Not only is this applicable on Nami, but on a lot of other enchanters who have decent range
Due to the length and detail of this guide, I can understand if some fishies don't wish to read everything. In which case, I have included TLDRs in this post. For ease of access, here are some formatting guidelines for the TLDRs of this post:
The following guide has been split into sections for easier navigation, if u are in a hurry for a specific section, scroll down to find the specific subheading that u need. Each explanation is also lengthy, but if u want a brief TLDR of each section, it will be enclosed for each section directly under their respective subheading in bolded font:

2. So how/why does it work?

TLDR (for this section): - Take First Strike vs matchups you outrange - Nami E on allies procs First Strike - The new Jack of All Trades rune should be utilised (see below for how)
Before I get into the specific build, I first need to explain how and why this whole setup works. First Strike is mostly taken as a gold-accelerating rune vs matchups that u outrange, ensuring that u get the "first strike" onto enemies consistently. With the changes to First Strike giving more base gold on the initial hit and less gold on subsequent hits compared to before, it pairs really well with a lot of enchanters' poke patterns. Usually, we have one poke spell and not much followup. The current First Strike matches this poke pattern perfectly (think Nami W, Sona E, Seraphine passive-empowered autos etc), allowing us to get an extra 15g per proc on top of our support item gold
On Nami specifically, we have an additional way to proc First Strike, since Nami E on allies actually procs First Strike! The best part of this interaction is that ur ally can be hit by enemies with ur E buff, but bc it wasn't you being hit directly, u will still retain the First Strike bonuses if ur ally hits enemies back with ur E buff despite being hit first! A common issue raised with this point is "what if my ADC is bad and doesn't use my E buff?" Don't worry, I got u covered too! So, whenever u empower an auto or ability that is still travelling middair towards the enemy, if u E urself or ur ally during said auto/ability, the slow and bonus dmg from E will still apply on impact. So, if u notice that ur ADC has cast an auto or ability onto the enemy, try to E them while this auto/ability is still travelling towards the enemy. Not only will this maximise E duration, give enemies minimal time to react to the slow and extra dmg, but it will also ensure that u proc First Strike due to E buff, as well as Manaflow Band and other item effects
This also works on ur own autos and abilities, and chaining abilities tgt like this will also help to cancel Nami's lengthy spell animation for more efficient trade patterns, hence better First Strike usage. Since W is our most consistent poke ability, we ideally want to start with this ability when trying to proc First Strike. This differs slightly from the regular Aery setup where we want to auto -> E ourself while our auto is still middair travelling towards enemy -> W enemy -> bubble/ult or let the bounceback heal retaliate enemy dmg. Instead, we want to W -> E ourselves while W is still middair travelling towards the enemy -> auto -> disengage with bounceback heal or bubble/ult. Additional tip: If you hover over Nami's W, you may notice multiple rings. The outer ring indicates Nami's W range when self-cast, meaning that the ability has a slightly longer range when you cast it on yourself bouncing towards an enemy (25 more range) rather than casting it on an ally to bounce or straight onto an enemy. So if u ever need to W urself first, or need just a bit of extra range, make sure to utilise this. To execute this most effectively, I recommend using alt+W for self-cast
I'm able to come out of lane with 300-400 gold fairly consistently. Pair this with free boots or Cash Back, and u can essentially double this amount of gold. Since enchanters tend to be quite item-reliant, having this extra gold generation allows us to reach our item spikes a lot faster, further increasing the snowball potential

2.1. Jack of All Trades

Supports are actually able to utilise the new Jack of All Trades rune surprisingly well. Our support item alone already covers 3 of the 10 stats required. Here are the list of stats that we will generally be able to obtain on supports: - AP - HP - Health Regen - Mana Regen - Haste - Movespeed - %Movespeed - Heal/Shield Power - Armor - Magic Resist - Mana (?) - Magic Pen (?)
In order to get these stats, we will need our support item which gives HP, health regen, and mana regen. Most items will cover the haste component. Boots for the movespeed stat. Ardent will give us the %movespeed as well as heal/shield power. But if we don't need Ardent, then we can split this into any other heal/shield power item + Shurelya's. Armor + magic resist can be optained from Locket or Wardstone. Alternatively, if we don't need armor + magic resist, we can instead trade these stats for magic pen + mana instead (will also explain this in further detail below)
As you can see, the items required for Jack are situational items. It is important to identify during champ select if said items, particularly Ardent/Shurelya's + Locket/Wardstone, will be built for this game. Altho, these items will be applicable in most situations anyway
If u don't need these items for that particular game, or if u don't feel like u'll be able to reach all these stats for whatever reason, then Cosmic Insight is always a great staple. Lower summ cds for lower Flash and Heal cds, notoriously long-cd spells, as well as item haste. Item haste works on non-active item cds such as Dream MakeCelestial/Solstice/Zaz'Zak's cds, Mandate mark cds, as well as lowering trinket cd etc.

3. ITEMS

TLDR (for this section): - Skip paragraphs to see builds under their respective subheadings (3.1. Defensive Build and 3.2. AP Build) below - Each individual dot point reperesents one individual item slot
Alright, now that all the theory work is out of the way, we can finally move onto the specific build (what everyone is here for). There are two main builds to go about this. Each individual dot point reperesents one individual item slot:

3.1. Defensive Build

• Support Item (upgrade does not matter, as long as u have the base support item)
• Mandate
• Lucidity boots
• Shurelya's + SoFW/Mikael's/Redemption/Dawncore OR Ardent + Mejai's/Morello/situational (buy Dark Seal on first recall if u plan on getting Ardent)
• Locket/Wardstone

This build is run in situations where u need the defensive stats from Locket or Wardstone vs harder comps or matchups, with Locket being particularly good vs AoE and/or burst dmg. This build will also cover all the stats from Jack of All Trades (see list from previous section)
Ardent is the most efficient item for Jack due to it providing mana regen, heal/shield power, and %movespeed, all in one item. This will free up an extra item slot where we can buy a situational item, like antiheal, or if it's not needed then Dark Seal into Mejai's is always a great alternative for cheap AP (Nami has good AP ratios), or any other alternative item that u may need. Just make sure to buy Ardent before this situational item in order to max out Jack
However, it may not always be an Ardent game. In situations where it isn't an Ardent game (non-autoattack-reliant comps), u will need to split the %movespeed and heal/shield power stats into 2 separate items. Typically, Shurelya's + any other Forbidden Idol item will cover this. You can also go for any other item that gives %movespeed, but I find Shurelya's the most consistent. The main downside is ofc, the build being quite rigid if u go for this option (no room for antiheal or other situational items)

3.2. AP Build

• Support Item (upgrade does not matter, as long as u have the base support item)
• Mandate
• Sorc Shoes
• Archangel's (buy Tear on first recall preferrably, or second recall latest)
• Shurelya's + SoFW/Mikael's/Redemption/Dawncore OR Ardent + Mejai's/Morello/Horizon Focus/Cryptbloom/situational (buy Dark Seal on first recall if u plan on getting Ardent)

This is a more AP-focused build in situations where u don't need to be so defensive. We omitted the armor and magic resist from Locket/Wardstone for mana (Archangel's) and magic pen (Sorc Shoes). Nami E on allies uses her own magic pen, hence Sorc Shoes here

4. RUNES

TLDR:

• Inspiration: First Strike, Magical FootweaCash Back, Biscuits, Jack of All Trades/Cosmic Insight
• Sorcery: Manaflow + Transcendence/Absolute Focus/Celerity/Scorch/Gathering Storm OR Transcendence/Absolute Focus + Gathering Storm
• Double Adaptive + Scaling HP OR 8AH + 2%MS + Scaling HP

The more specifics to optimise ur runes to their respective builds:

4.1. Runes for Defensive Build

• Inspiration: First Strike, Cash Back, Biscuits, Jack of All Trades/Cosmic Insight
• Sorcery: Manaflow + Transcendence/Absolute Focus/Celerity/Scorch/Gathering Storm
• Double Adaptive + Scaling HP OR 8AH + 2%MS + Scaling HP

Omitted free boots for Cash Back. Since this is for the defensive build, we will need to rush Lucidity boots vs hard matchups. Not only are Lucidity boots a cheaper option so it gives a faster spike in movespeed vs skillshot-heavy lanes, the lower Flash cd will be good vs engage lanes. Jack vs Cosmic has been explained in previous sections
Manaflow + Transcendence is default. For in-depth explanation:
Manaflow is essential for defensive build. Only go Absolute Focus in situations where enemies lack poke, allowing u to maintain the HP threshold for the AP. Transcendence is a good default, when unsure u can always default to this due to Nami's long cds. Pair both these with double adaptive minor shards option. Celerity if u need the movespeed vs heavy-skillshot comps (pair this with the 2% movespeed minor shard option)
I personally don't recommend Scorch with the First Strike setup due to the scaling nature of this build. However, Scorch is typically good with early-game ADCs or matchups where u have early pressure. Scorch also barely adds any bonuses to First Strike, especially as the game progresses. Avoid Scorch if enemies have sustain, as they can easily outheal or outshield that bit of Scorch dmg. When unsure, or in any other situation, go Gathering Storm

4.2. Runes for AP Build

• Inspiration: First Strike, Magical Footwear, Biscuits, Jack of All Trades/Cosmic Insight
• Sorcery: Transcendence/Absolute Focus + Gathering Storm
• Double Adaptive + Scaling HP

Due to the more expensive nature and higher scaling potential of this build, go free boots so that u can focus on rushing items. Since we go Archangel's with this build, we won't need Manaflow. For maximum scaling, I recommend Absolute Focus + Gathering Storm (also the greediest option). Otherwise, Transcendence as explained prior

5. Core Mechanics of Nami W

TLDR (for this section): - More than 100AP -> subsequent bounces heal/dmg MORE - Less than 100AP -> subsequent bounces heal/dmg LESS
Smth absolutely crucial to these First Strike builds, as well as any other AP Nami builds, is understanding her W bounce mechanic. I often get asked why AP Nami, and it would be natural for some fishies to come forth and ask about this too, so I will just include this section here as well. For the fellow fishies who already about this, please feel free to skip this section
The reason why AP Nami is a thing is bc of the way her W scaling works to begin with. We unironically heal more with AP builds than enchanter builds. Allow me to explain:
Patch 14.6: 'The damage and healing value is modified by *-15% (+7.5% per 100AP)** each bounce.'*
Patch 14.7: 'The damage and healing value is modified by *-10% (+10% per 100AP)** each bounce.'*
Before I explain how to get crazy heal/dmg numbers on Nami's W bounces, I first need to explain her unique scaling on W. Unlike most other enchanters who benefit from heal/shield power, Nami's W has a unique scaling where subsequent bounces become weaker pre-100AP, and become stronger post-100AP. This threshold was at 200AP before the most recent changes on her, so they buffed it significantly by lowering the threshold down to only requiring 100AP instead of 200, making AP builds even more potent now in terms of healing and dmg. As such, Nami benefits more from stacking AP than heal/shield power
To give some perspective, previously if I had 200AP my W bounces would be equally as strong as each subsequent bounce. However, with these changes, with 200AP our W is now amped by 10%, and will continue amping by 10% for every 100AP. Getting 400AP on AP Nami builds is very doable with the right setup, buffing our subsequent bounces by 30% per bounce. This means our second bounce will be 30% stronger than the first, and our third bounce will be 60% stronger than the first bounce, which does not need further explaining as to why this is absolutely obnoxious when it comes to dmg and healing values
These changes also mean that a lot of Nami players will need to learn to prioritise their bounces according to what they need. Before, some enchanter builds struggled to reach the 200AP threshold, so we could just autopilot the first bounce without giving it much thought. Now, bounce prioritisation will actually become a prominent part of her kit
To explain how to alternate W effectively with an example, if my primary target (the one I want to dmg/heal the most) is A and my secondary target (less priority target) is B, then I will alternate my W bounces as follows:

• For most healing: W1 bounce to ally B -> W2 bounce to enemy -> W3 bounce to ally A for maximum healing
• For the most dmg: W1 bounce to enemy B -> W2 bounce to ally for heal -> W3 bounce to enemy A for the maximum dmg

And ofc, if u have Mandate then make sure to use E before W to ensure ur W bounces do even more dmg and proc Mandate c:

6. Final Words

Phew! That was probably one of my lengthiest explanations made into a single post to date! I really hope this helps out some fellow fishies. This build can be a bit difficult to grasp at first, and will take some time to learn and get used to. But always rmb that when unsure u can always go back to Aery as it will always remain the most consistent option overall
I'm also aware that First Strike is being nerfed next patch from 15g -> 10g. Personally, I think it could still be situationally good. Also, I apologise for any typos that may have been made, as the post was quite lengthy (so I may have missed some typos while proofreading)
This is also my first time making a post to this this degree of length and detail, so if there are any formatting errors or discomforts, please feel free to leave feedback below for me to improve on! For all the fishies that stayed til the end, I genuinely want to thank u and appreciate time and support 🥺🩷🩷
Hope this explains everything!
^{**Disclaimer:* In order to avoid unnecessary conflicts and misunderstandings, please note that the above information serves as a recommendation and general guideline intended to explain the phenomena. It is based off of my own personal experience, as well as research of other players. Thus, said information is by no means perfect, nor is it a law that you must follow. You are entitled to your own preferences, playstyles, and opinions, which may differ from mine* ®}

Hello everyone.
For a few past years I have been working on the document encompassing almost all constructions needed to pass the JLPT N1 exam. One of the cool features is that you can actually check how often the construction is used in actual Japanese (according to the corpus named Shōnagon). What is more, many constructions are ordered thematically (so you can learn and memorize all the different ways of how to say "not only ... but also" together). Many exemplary sentences come from various PC games, Japanese TV series, books, or Youtube videos by native Japanese, and they are ordered roughly according to their degree of difficulty for each grammar entry. Naturally, if you have an N1 entry, in some cases, even the first sentence might be difficult to understand if your current knowledge level is N4 or lower. Therefore, I would recommend this guide for those of you who have already mastered the majority of N3 constructions.
I hope that some of you will find this grammar guide useful. It can also be downloaded from my ResearchGate website as .docx document. You can also download the overview of all grammar entries within the guide provided in English. If you have some questions feel free to contact me. Nonetheless, the foreword section should hopefully answer at least some of your questions.
Wish you all good luck studying Japanese!

I tested positive at the doctor yesterday but it’s Day 4 of symptoms… day 3 with a fever. I HAVE HAD A WEEK FROM HELL!
Last weekend was my 4 year old daughter’s birthday. I ran around like a crazy person and barely drank any fluids and held my pee all day. Well the next day.. Sunday I got a raging UTI. I go to urgent care and get put on antibiotics. Later that same evening my period started. I worked a crazy busy double shift at my bar on Monday fighting a uti and having a period. Tuesday I worked an unplanned double shift at my other bar. I decided to take Wednesday off because I was scheduled to have oral surgery the next day and we were going to a baseball game Wednesday night. Wednesday I have this tight feeling in my chest like I breathed in a bunch of dust or something. And I kinda had a dry cough. I thought it might have been side effects of the macrobid I was prescribed so I freaked out and stopped taking it. We go to the baseball game and it was a cold rainy night. The chest tightness persisted and got worse as the night went on. Thursday I woke up early because I was very scared of the apicoectomy I was supposed to have at 8 am. I felt pretty shitty and decided I was gonna post pone the surgery. I still showed up at the office and the nurse seemed down to still do the procedure even though I told her I felt bad. Thankfully the Endodontist wanted no part of it and told me to reschedule. I stopped by target and got some Gatorade and Covid tests. Covid test was negative. My MIL took my daughter and I took a nap. Woke up with a fever. Things went really downhill from there. My whole body started to ache and I had to lay next to a bowl because I felt so nauseous. I fell asleep again and woke up boiling hot and my heart racing. The body aches were unbearable. My husband was taking his final test before graduation the next day so I wasn’t trying to bother him too much but he was really worried about me. My MIL brings my daughter home because she wants to come home. She tells me she can come pick her back up tomorrow after her 11 am appt. At this point didn’t know if I was sick with something or maybe my uti was coming back with a vengeance and affecting my whole body. If my daughter wouldn’t have been home I probably would have made my husband take me to the hospital.
I wake up the next morning feeling worse than ever. I call my mom and beg her to come over. I ask her if she will take me to my urgent care appointment. I had no idea when husband was gonna be done at school and I just didn’t have the strength to care for my daughter. She comes over and I literally just cry miserably. My MIL comes and takes my daughter and my husband gets home soon after. My mom literally had to help me get dressed. She leaves and my husband takes me to urgent care. Just walking in the door and signing in almost kills me. I redo a UA which turned out being fine. They test for Covid flu and strep. Covid comes back positive. Now come to find out 4 people at my job I worked on Monday are all Covid positive. I was supposed to go to my cousins wedding today but that definitely wasn’t gonna happen. I also am so glad I decided to not want to get my oral surgery on Thursday. I can’t imagine having my jaw bone drilled on and stitches in my mouth while feeling this sick with Covid!!! My god. I finally just took a shower and I seriously thought my legs were gonna buckle underneath me. I swear they were a little shakey. I get so dizzy and weak feeling just standing up. I keep getting really hot and sweaty. My body aches are gone but now it’s like a weird soreness. Maybe from laying around too much I don’t know. Anywho I just wanted to vent about how awful a UTI / period / covid / attempted dental surgery all in one week is.

This is too boring, mundane, & irrelevant to bother posting anywhere else, so I’m spewing my nonsense where it nearly nary will be seen but hopefully get out of my motherforking brain.
Last year for the first time ever, we had family photos done with everyone on my (immediate) side of the fam. It was awesome, and we ended up with some stunning photos of all kinds: just our kiddos, my sis & I with our parents, kiddos with grandparents, our fam of 5, etc.
We wanted to do family pics again this year because we loved them so much, so we managed to book the same phenomenal photographer. This time just the 5 of us + my MIL. My husband was thrilled with the idea, especially since his dad has recently passed. It’s still a very tender matter, and I try to offer as much tlc & grace to my my husband & MIL as possible.
The only hiccup in all this has been getting a date solidified. We had a date booked, but the weather was awful for the planned outdoor session so (after checking w MIL), we rescheduled. Unbeknownst to all of us at the time, the new date aligned w the local high school graduation.
Small tangent.. my husband has a crummy brother & scummy s-in-law (sisteslut.. we assume they’re still married, but who knows. Brother’s w___e is still fitting as well.) and their youngest kid just graduated high school. Easy to see where this is going.
MIL didn’t want to miss the graduation (totally understandable); even though my husband & his brother have been cordially communicating a bit within the last couple months, we weren’t specifically invited to the graduation, etc. and we had no reason to attend, much less even know the date. Why feed the already obese llamas?
Photos were rescheduled for the 2nd time, and I made plans for graduation afternoon for me & the Littles. Though MIL did somewhat-gently encourage my husband to attend the graduation with her, he opted not to go. “It’s open to the public and I’m within my rights to be there” .. oy vey. That’s an expression I heard sooo many times from my MIL over the years. I don’t disagree, but I prefer not to go where my presence isn’t requested or desired. Which is absolutely the case in this situation. Plus, whyinthefuck would I go to a long-ass graduation for ~a thousand kids I do not know at all? I haven’t seen husband’s brother’s family at all since FIL’s funeral, and it was almost 2 years no contact prior to that. Plus I didn’t even attend my own HS graduation of less than 100 grads.
We’re finally coming up on the 2nd rescheduled date, and wadayaknow.. high school baseball playoffs are going on. Husband’s nephew is a key part of the team, and MIL has been religiously attending every game she can. Against tremendous odds, the team advanced. My husband wasn’t certain of the day/time of the next game at that point, and warned me that MIL might not be able to make it to the photos if the times conflicted. Then websites were saying one day/time, school was saying another.
As of yesterday, it wasn’t even an issue. Game scheduled Saturday, photos scheduled Sunday. Today, it was a big fat question mark. Rain had been constant, though mostly light/moderate. Game actually got underway.
It then got called & rescheduled. Luckily for Monday, so no conflict issues.
This was really just more annoying than anything else, so I just needed a little vent.

Well hi! Nice to meet you🤗. Names Kira. Here’s is some info about me . I know this post may not be everyone’s cup of tea however I think it’s important to let others know some great facts about me ^{_^}
Located:
Texas . Willing to move to another state or have my future partner live with me .
Appearance :
A thick black femboy who loves dressing up sometimes . Height : 5’3. Age: 26 Personality : I’m super ambivert . I love to go to anime cons, anime movies , TCG stores for tournaments , ect . I’m a super silly goofball who loves to make people smile .
💙My hobbies:

• Anime : Some of my favorites animes are Tokyo ghoul , Sword Art Online , Yuri on ice , Future Diary, JJK, MHA, Yaoi(Love stage , Sasaki and Miyano)
  
• Manga : I’ve completed so many mangas from yaoi , Ouran high school host club , berserk , ect .
  
• Cosplay : I’ve done Pokémon & a Tokyo Ghoul cosplay before .
  
• Anime cons: I’ve been to at least 11 anime/Comic cons.
  
• Dueling (Yu-Gi-Oh!)
  
• Pokémon
  
• Yaoi
  
• Pc gaming
  
• Overwatch. I love this game have over 500 hrs .
  
• Marvel/DC
  
• Tv drama : The Vampire Diaries , Supernatural, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, The 100.
  
• Horror- big fan of tv shows , movies like AHS
  
• Consoles I have are : Ps5, Nintendo switch , psp, ps vita, Nintendo 3ds , wii, gameboy , ect .
  
• SO Much More *
  

🩷What im looking for in a Relationship🩷

• [ ] Monogamous
• [ ] Single
• [ ] Loyalty
• [ ] Communication (This is my #1, no “ lol” or “yeah”
• [ ] No kids
• [ ] Open-minded
• [ ] Common interest : Nerdy (Anime, Games, Star Wars or anything nerdy)
• [ ] Sure on what you want (basically just knowing you want a relationship)
• [ ] Mature (as in personality )
• [ ] 21+ in age (this is a strict one)

▶️MY TYPE:
TALL (taller than my own height) , very communicative, masculine(mostly beards and body hair) gamers/anime nerds.
Someone who’s ready for a long term relationship Someone who may want to live together in the future
Someone who loves anime or video games especially OW2. *These are just preferences not a deal breaker. *
✅Ps: for compatibility reasons I’m a 100% bottom.
Do not ask me NSFW question it will be an immediate block
If you made it this far, please message me an introduction about yourself. This is extremely important as it tells me alot about you and for me to give you a well detailed response. Mostly a name to call you , hobbies, location (state wise) and what you’re looking for . You may send pics in the first message if you may like 😊

About Us
Welcome to Neo Vortex, a pioneering industrial corporation operating within the depths of wormhole space under the Seker Academy alliance. We are committed to pure industry, catering exclusively to seasoned industrialists who are eager to excel in New Eden through the various industrial benefits of J-space. Our mission is to cultivate a thriving community of individuals united by a shared passion for production and resource extraction in J-Space.
Timezone: USTZ (US Time Zone) Location: C2 Wormhole with a High-Sec and C3 Static
Who Are We Looking For?
Neo Vortex seeks industrious pilots who:

• Possess a minimum of 5 million skill points
• Embrace the challenges and rewards of wormhole life and are willing to abide by the rules required to succeed within it.
• Are primarily industry-minded. This is an indy corp, focusing primarily on industrial operations. If you seek a more well-rounded playstyle, this corp may not be for you.
• Flourish within a USTZ environment. This is where most of us are, making it rather important.
• Dedicated industry alts are welcome, but they NEED to be active.

We welcome individuals with a comprehensive understanding of game mechanics, prepared to immerse themselves in the intricacies of industry. This isn't a Newbro corp, so please don't come in expecting that.However this also isn't an elite corp. We know you have a life outside of EvE. We simply seek people who know they want to do industry and base themselves in J-Space.
What We Offer
From high-security ice and veldspar mining fleets to ventures into low-security gas and ore anomalies within Amarr space, we offer a diverse range of industrial activities.
Join Neo Vortex and benefit from:

• Access to cutting-edge manufacturing facilities within our C2 wormhole. Most things you can make from wormholes, you can make here.
• Ridicucloulsy good PI; You're able to make most anything easily.
• A C3 static dedicated to farming, be it mining, ratting or huffing.
• Regular high-security ice and veldspar mining fleets for lucrative ventures (what you mine is free after all!)
• Opportunities to explore and exploit low-security gas and ore anomalies
• A supportive community dedicated to industry and production

Delve into the boundless opportunities of wormhole space with Neo Vortex. Connect with us on Discord to learn more about your prospective journey.
Why Choose Neo Vortex?
At Neo Vortex, we prioritize:

• Collaboration: Work closely with experienced industrialists in a cooperative environment. Selfishness has no place here.
• Growth: Expand your skills and knowledge through engaging industrial activities, with ample opportunities for advancement within this space.
• Prosperity: Take advantage of lucrative opportunities unique to wormhole space, and rest assured that your interests align harmoniously with others'.

Whether you're seeking new industrial opportunities or a fresh start to the world of dedicated industry, Neo Vortex offers the platform to realize your ambitions.
Ready to Craft Your Future?
If you're prepared to embark on a rewarding industrial journey, apply to Neo Vortex today. Embrace the complexities of wormhole life and unlock the limitless potential of New Eden alongside us.
Join our Recruitment channel in game (Neo Cataclysmica), or join our discord to see if Neo Vortex is right for you!
Discord: https://discord.gg/jMrjrwyjbE
"Envision. Create. Ascend, with Neo Vortex."

Kids are in constant need of attention and stimulation, when they’re not attended to they’re fighting. Still crying after daycare separation and still being very difficult to manage. Honesty I try my best and so does my wife but it’s honestly hard to muster up the energy to keep it all afloat.
Before I had kids I didn’t know I was self medicating with video games and eventually alcohol and other substances. Yet looking in hindsight I can see in every area my mental health conditions manifested. I failed miserably in school and found solace in computers. Somehow I was good at it and fluked my way to a good career but I’ve never had shit together and was a self sabotager. I have ADHD, OCD, GAD and depression diagnosed but who knows what the f it really is. Medications never worked for me because side effects eventually became too much to bear. I cant do alcohol or substances anymore because I’m not good on them and they just make me feel guilty for doing it when I have kids.
I’ve been in rehab done and doing 12 step programs and counselling and everything else under the f’ing sun and things just keep getting worse and worse ever since having kids. I cant get any alone time and I’m starting to have chronic pains from age and abuse on my body in the past and they always want to be held and whinging about everything.
They have a good routine with swimming, music stuff and do all things for them to help them grow like friend circles, doctor visits and speech therapy, paediatrics everything really, don’t leave a stone unturned but I didn’t know I had all this stuff I’ve been unable to deal with and now I have a family to support and see myself in them with a history of mental health in my family that’s been avoided and ignored and self medicated through generations.
Trying to give my kids a normal life while I’m a nut job is so hard and watching them be very difficult in everything while trying hard to keep a brave face is so hard man holy shit.
I love them too much to end myself but it’s also hard to keep living and I would never do that. Sometimes i think separating with my partner and having breaks half the week would result in better parenting but I wonder if that’s my old friend the disease of addiction talking.
I think the whole world is fried now with technology and the internet has become a beast that I don’t recall being when it came out and a generation of instant rewards is being generated now and I don’t want a part of it. Everything is just so cooked now or maybe it’s just me. I want to live on a village like Moana.