Bear in mind, it's just a theory and try to vislualize this like you were in the rioter's or my (true fan) shoes:
It's the final game of the trophy finals! And to just lose that trophy to the opposing team - especially after coming this far into the sports trophy championships is just too much for the fans to bear! Only compounded by other contributing factors: the alcohol coursing through the people's bodies and impeding their ability to process their actions properly in addition to that year marking either a certain amount of time passed since they first made it this far and/or it's their special anniversary year.
So... what better way to vent out one's frustration and rage... than to destroy stuff? And by stuff, I mean anything - and I mean literally anything within one's view and reach? Including overhead power lines, traffic lights on suspension poles, overhead flag poles on highrise buildings, etc., etc. Not only that, those enraged people feel the need to find someone to engage in fights with to relieve the rage from within them after what they just bore witness to.
So, why not try this strategy to keep everyone's moods in check: First, clear the streets of everything and anything that can be broken, thrown, or used as a weapon. Next, vendors should only serve beverages in plastic containers, so there's no broken glass or bottles to step on. Third, use undercover officers so you blend in with the crowd and arrest unruly "fans" with the element of surprise. And you certainly don't want to pose as the opposing team's fans. Without a villain to attack, you'll have no reason to start a fight.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GKpiX7E1QU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n22Lr4uLSc0

Is it the right time to start preparing for the CAT24? What about those who started early? what about those stories about those start even late.
I get these questions a lot of times. And CAT is quite an interesting exam in the sense that the number of days you prepare for it tell absolutely nothing about your preparation stage.
I usually get two kind of queries. First is asking if this month or that month is right time to start and prepare. Second one is number of hours required to prepare for CAT. Both are inherently wrong questions with no possible right answers. For months, I tend to say that CAT can also be cracked within 4 months or less if you inherently have some aptitude, even if that doesn't reflect in the first few mocks you take. And for hours, I usually suggest that if you start from scratch, approximately 1000 hours is what you are looking at. [200 hours per section to prepare i.e. 600 hours, 50 mocks with 6 hours each i.e. 300 hours of mocks (6 hours because mock + solve the entire paper + analysis) and another 100 hours for revision and making notes etc.]
Both of my answers (any such other answers) are actually partially wrong and misleading. I'm making this post to give you the real answer.
CAT Preparation needs to be done in three phases. In Phase One, you need to build your basic knowledge structure. This varies with sectionals and I'll explain for each section.
VARC Phase 1
Here, your basic knowledge structure involves,

1. understanding the pattern of exam.
2. Having a strategy for the exam (RC first then VA or VA first then RC, whatever works for you). Remember that whatever strategy you pick, you need to know why that particular strategy and not something else. If you don't know, it's best to start from question 1 and go to the end.

For me, I needed to read RCs first to get in flow, but I needed to be very attentive in VA. so I would do 2 RCs to get in flow, go to VA when I'm hyper focused, come back to other 2 RCs to end the section on a good note (VA was my weakness)
See how I personalized this based on when I'm most active and what's my weakness and what's my strength. You need to do the same for yourself. Don't try to sit and make it. I'll come naturally to you. If it doesn't come, It means you are comfortable with going in any order. That's good.

1. Having the ability to understand the passage.

Some people have this inherently. Most people have this in some subjects (like science) and don't have in it other subjects (like philosophy). While a few of you don't have it at all.
What you need to make sure is, when you read the passage, did you understand the entire passage like what exactly was the passage trying to say?
That's all for VARC Phase 1..
DILR Phase 1
This is fairly simple. Just go through different types of DILR questions. (If you are following my guide, just complete the rodha playlist I had attached there)
Quant Phase 1
Do a few arithmetic chapters. 3-4 basic chapters like Time Speed Distance, Ratio and proportions, Averages, Mixtures and allegations etc.
After doing this phase, here comes the phase 2 of your preparation.
VARC Phase 2
Here you need to go through different types of RCs and questions. Understand your shortcomings. Understand what mistakes you are making. (If You are following VARC1000, finishing it concludes phase 2)
DILR Phase 2
Here you develop your symbols and signs. You learn which table/diagram to make in which question. Like I would always represent certain things with some symbols (Circle for males, underline for females etc) So you kind of develop your own representation in this phase.
Quant Phase 2
In this phase, you finish your quants syllabus. It is here that many people decide whether to go for arithmetic algebra and geometry or go for arithmetic and algebra only or maybe add a number system. Whatever is the combination you wanna go with.
With conclusion of this phase, you stop practicing quants chapter by chapter all together.
VARC Phase 3
This is the final phase where you just keep giving mocks, analyse them and look for the mistakes you are doing. Did you read the question wrong? Did you miss some word in paragraph? were you stressed? were you hurrying? were you distracted? This phase ends whenever CAT happens. Else it just continues.
DILR Phase 3
Here you learn what set to select. Set selection is the core of DILR. you basically learn how to choose what set to attempt and which one to leave. This phase never ends, because you just need to keep on practicing. So it continues till CAT
Quant Phase 3
Here also you learn which question to attempt and which question to leave and what silly mistakes are you doing. This also continues till the CAT exam day.
Now let's try to see how much time should it take (in hours)
VARC Phase 1: Could be anything from 1 hour to 50 hours of rigorous reading or even more. DILR Phase 1: Should take considerable time. Around 50 to 80 hours on average but again could take more or less. Quant Phase 1: Depends on how good you are inherently at calculations. Do you need to remember 19×7 or you know it already? Do you remember value of 2^10? Do you recall formula for compound interest?
VARC Phase 2: You might understand your mistakes and fix them within a week and might not be able to do so after 8 months of preparation. Again entirely depends on you.
DILR Phase 2: How long does it take for you to understand which data should be represented by which diagram and which table? No one can tell you. You would find out yourself.
Quant Phase 2: This is something predictable and takes most of the time. But again this varies. Someone doing Algebra, Arithmetic, Geometry, Probably, Number System would take more time as someone going with Arithmetic and Algebra only. Some people do only Arithmetic and Algebra, get a very high strike rate of getting questions right and score good in QA. Others complete the syllabus and pick and choose the easiest questions in the paper. They also score well. Some do both, they are God level. So again, time taken here varies.
VARC, DILR, and Quant Phase 3
This phase continues till the exam comes. For some people, this phase is very long so that's how you find people who gave 70+ mock tests. But this phase is just about finding mistakes and not repeating them in the CAT exam so this phase could also yield results with 30 odd mocks. Again varies from person to person.
And now, you understand why it is stupid to answer if you are starting in the right month or how many hours it takes. The sooner you learn from your mistakes, the less time it will take. How quickly would you learn from your mistakes? Nobody knows. That's why you see cases with 3 CAT attempts and can't score more than 90 percentile, and scored 99%ile with 2 to 4 months of preparation.
The best way to go about this is, either you would learn from your mistakes quickly and hence you should attempt CAT 24, or you need a lot of time to learn, in which case you give CAT24 and then CAT25 in case you feel that's needed.
Hope this helps.

***Lily***
“Stupid gnome prejudice. I may not be the biggest fan of gnomes but, just because we are small doesn’t mean we can’t cause some damage.” Mogsten says as he walks over, kicks the fishman, and picks up the horn and dusts it off. “I’m hesitant to admit this since, when he regains consciousness, he will do what he could to ruin my business even more but, still, thank you Wabbajack.” He says.
“Don’t mention it Mogsten, this guy’s haggling game was all over the place.” Wabbajack responds.
“Indeed, he has no understanding of value.” Mogsten says with a smirk on his face.
“Well, unless he knew that you had about another sixty of those in the back that is.” Wabbajack says as he chuckles.
Mogsten quickly turns around as he says, “Shh. That’s a trade secret.” He then lets out an “oh ho ho” chuckle. He then looks down and yells, “Gourdsten! Clean up!”
Just like that, Gourdsten comes out from the back and drags the body off. Soon after the body disappears towards the back, Gourdsten reappears with a spray bottle, gloves, and a sponge.
“What happened to him?” I ask Mogsten.
“Don’t worry, I can’t afford a bloody reputation. He is just in stasis until the authorities get here.” Mogsten answers with.
“Stasis?” I ask.
“She really is new to all this huh? Stasis is basically freezing someone in a state of time. In this state however, while nothing can happen to them, they can’t function. Depending on the state they are in when they go under, they may be aware of the environment around them. Sometimes, certain criminals may undergo such punishment for their crimes.” Mogsten explains, looking at Wabbajack for some reason.
Mogsten then looks at me and asks, “So, did you find all the ingredients?”
I nod my head.
He then rubs his temple as he asks, “And you Really intend to go through with this?”
“There’s no other option!” I exclaim.
“Well, there are quite a few, just that they would take a LOT longer.” Wabbajack points out.
I look at him in annoyance and he responds with, “What? Just saying.”
I sigh and look at Mogsten and hand him the “ingredients”.
“Let’s see what we have. A fur scarf, a pistol, a lantern that looks like a child tried to make it, a… rubber duck. And what the world is this?” Mogsten asks pulling out the leg.
“It’s a prosthetic leg for a dragon-sized crocodile. Well, a smaller scale version at the very least.” I explain.
“Who would put a prosthetic leg on a Dragon-sized crocodile?” he asks.
“Right?” I ask in return.
He then looks back at the leg, strokes his fake beard, and says, “Well, when you put it like that, makes sense you would want to use it as an ingredient.” He then looks back at me and asks, “Are these the ingredients that you Really want to use?”
“They fit the descriptions that you gave me.” I point out.
He then looks at the ingredients again and says, “Yes… this may actually work then.”
“Come again?” I ask him.
“Well, one of the Biggest reasons, after that whole dark nature I mentioned, that this fails is that people try to influence their familiar by using ingredients that don’t inspire these feelings.” He explains.
“Because of this disconnection between the host and the familiar, that may also cause the familiar to go berserk as well.” Wabbajack then explains.
“Exactly!” Mogsten exclaims as he points towards to Wabbajack. He then looks back to me and asks, “With that in mind, are you one-Hundred percent sure that these ingredients are correct?”
I nod again and explain, “I can explain my reasons if you want.”
“No. As long as you are certain, then follow me to the back.” He says as he picks everything up again and starts waddling towards the back.
“Would you like some help?” I ask.
“No, I have to prepare everything anyways so it’s best I handle most things from here.” He explains.
Wabbajack walks past me but, I notice he is holding his banjo-thing upside-down. But, its neck is awfully long. Long enough to reach the ground and have the base be about level to his head. Which is pretty impressive since he is not that much taller than me. I want to ask about it but, I figured that is better left for later. Besides, I could probably guess that it can switch between a staff and an instrument. So, I shrug and follow them towards the back.
As I pass the flaps, I let out an audible, “Wow” because the room is massive! There is so much stock in here. I would have never guessed it from the gypsy-sized tent I see from the outside.
I guess Mogsten hears me as he says while putting the items in a pattern, “Spatial compression spell. It’s like that bag you are probably holding. It’s a pocket of space that you can mess with everything as long as it’s registered to you. Any merchant worth his salt at least attempts to lessen the target on his store to wannabe burglars. For example, there was a tannery that was completely torn apart for scrap. I hear the owner left it unattended And unlocked. I hope he can recover from that, it’s a pretty costly mistake.”
I look off towards the side and say, “Oh, I hear he is doing alright. Hehe.”
He pulls out a spray can and says while he shakes it, “That’s good.” He then starts spraying the ground.
I look over towards Wabbajack, who is standing sideways towards the thing Mogsten is working on. He has his free hand about chest level, fingers-spread, and it looks like he has a weird circle thing again like when I think I have seen him do before when he casted magic. Like when he summoned that ghost thing. I guess he is on guard duty.
I look back at Mogsten and see he is about halfway done at this point. He works fast since the design is very intricate. Now that I think about it, it looks like that circle Wabbajack has but… different. I think I remember reading about this. These must be magic circles. While they look similar, they must be different since each magic circle represents something different. Kinda like snowflakes. I can’t help but ask, “What’s that you are spraying to make that magic circle?”
“Ah, someone has been studying. It’s a mixture of compounds for creating the familiar summoning circle. I kept a few around just in case that someone managed to convince me to do this.” He explains. He then stands up and shakes it some more as he says, “I thought it was unlikely but, a smart businessman looks at every opportunity.” He then goes back to spraying and says, “Now, no offense, but mind letting me focus? I got to make sure I get this perfect. I want to lessen the margin of error as much as possible.”
“Oh! Sure. Sorry.” I say. Now that I think about it, I look towards my bag and think about what he said, “Like my bag.” I open it and it looks like a normal bag. Either it needs to be activated or it doesn’t have that spell yet. I’ll have to ask about that after we are done.
“Before I forget, leave your bandolier and bag over by Wabbajack there. We don’t want to add unnecessary items to the circle.” Mogsten says as he shakes the can again.
“Oh! Alright!” I respond. I take off my bandolier and put it down by Wabbajack.
“Don’t worry. If worse comes to worse, I’ll protect you. And come whatever may, we’ll figure out what to do next.” Wabbajack says.
I feel a little relief hearing him say that. Next thing I know, Gourdsten runs up to me with a simple white robe. “Oh, what’s this?” I ask.
“It’s a robe.” Wabbajack says.
As I look at him, annoyed, Gourdsten says, “Robe! Wear Robe!”
Mogsten then explains, “You’ll have to take off the rest of your gear as well and wear just that robe. Like I said, No unnecessary items. Only simple clothes.”
I look at the robe and say, “Oh… There is a changing room, right?”
“This way! Here, here!” Gourdsten says as he pulls my arm.
“Alright! Calm down.” I say.
I follow him to a wooden stall. “I guess I change in there, huh?” I ask.
“Yes! Correct!” Gourdsten says.
I sigh and open it up, step inside and change. Afterwards, after I step out in the robe, Gourdsten then says, “Shoes! Too!”
I look down and sigh. I then ask, “Can that wait till we get back?”
“Shoes! Shoes! He repeats.
I then puff my face in annoyance as I sit down and take off my shoes. “Happy?” I ask.
He just jumps up and down and starts walking back.
All I can think is that it’s a good thing that the floor is at least wooden. I then get up, grab my stuff, and chase after him.
As we get back, Mogsten appears out of nowhere and points behind him as he says, “Circle is done. All that is left is the blood of the subject.”
“You’re not going to slit my wrists, are you?” I ask with a meek chuckle.
“Heaven’s no!” He says as he pulls out a syringe. He then grabs my wrist under these large sleeves and asks, “On three. Ready?”
I nervously nod my head. Just as he opens his mouth, I quickly say, “Wait! Why do we need blood again?” Trying to delay the inevitable.
He looks at me and explains, “A familiar is an extension of yourself. Quite literally. In order to cement that bond, it needs the blood of the host. That bond will allow you and your familiar to share experiences but, still allow autonomy for individual thought. You can live without it but, for it to retain its presence, it needs you alive.”
“Fascinating. Mind going into more detail?” I say with a weak smile.
He then stabs the syringe into my wrist as he says, “No.”
“Ow!” I yelp.
Just like that, he pulls the syringe out and empties it out into a bowl. “Alright, here you go.” He says as he hands me the bowl.
As I stare into a small bowl of my own blood, I ask, “What am I supposed to do with this?”
“Now, You stand at the center of the circle. As I activate the circle, the blood will start sloshing around in that bowl. Do NOT let a SINGLE drop fall out until the last item is floating. When the last item does start floating, pour the blood in the center and take four steps back. Got it?” he explains.
I look over back to the circle and then look back to Mogsten and repeat, “Don’t let it spill until the last object starts floating. When it does, pour it all out and take four steps back, right?”
He nods and says, “Correct.” I think I then hear him mumble, “I can’t believe I was convinced to do this.” As he walks away.
I then take my place at the center of the circle. I am somewhat trembling at this point.
“Are you sure, you want to do this?” Mogsten asks again.
“Just do it already!” I yell back.
He lets out a sigh and starts mouthing something as he levels out his arms towards me.
I could feel the energy around me shifting and moving. I start seeing the objects that were placed start floating one by one. Slowly but surely. I then look down at the bowl and it is sloshing around. So far, not too bad. Around the time the fourth object starts floating, the blood really starts flying around to the point I have to actually adjust to make sure it doesn’t go flying out.
After a few more minutes the last object starts flying up. As soon as it stops moving, I pour the blood and take four steps back. The blood stops midair and forms a bubbling ball. It then rises up about level to my face. It stops bubbling and then a flash of blinding light envelops the room and I try to shield my eyes.
After a minute, I slowly open my eyes and lower my arms. What I see before me is something pretty weird.
It’s in the shape of a sphere with a detached fox tail. The floating tail matches the fur of the body of the “familiar”, I guess. Its fur is a golden yellow with a white tip. The body looks like it has a line down the middle, with Very sharp fangs from the top row. It has fox ears and tiny fox paws and a fox nose. It’s got lines for eyes? Either that or they are just closed. Between its ears, it has a lantern dangling from a line, kinda like an angler fish. The other side of that line looks like white gator leather and it has two tiny gator feet. As it yawns, I guess, it opens its massive mouth, showing all its fangs, top and bottom rows, and stretches its fox paws, revealing some nasty looking barbed claws. It’s only as tall as, from the floor, up to my knee.
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hey folks, just found this sub & i'm glad that lmop still gets attention! apologies in advance for any typos, my phone is old as balls and hates typing on reddit mobile.
I'm running the mod for three of my good friends; one is an experienced player and the other two are brand new, so we decided to start "simple".
BUT (big but) a few things led me to want to rewrite a lot of the module: - my players are a bunch of hippie nerds with interests in ecology, moral philosophy, etc. and don't gravitate toward the typical dungeon crawl. - 2/3 of my players listened to TAZ: Balance and would be insufferably annoying with references if i left the majority of the plot and NPCs alone (we're only two sessions in and I've already had to stop play to shut down repeated references to barry bluejeans and the fantasy costco jingle) - the experienced player was also in the party last time I ran this module as-written and she's a good sport but I'd love to shake things up for her
So, I decided to keep the skeleton of the module but slant it heavily towards a sort of environmentalist angle where motivations and impact aren't necessarily cut-and-dried, and the PCs have to make in-character decisions based on their internal morality instead of just playing as 'protags actions good, antagonists actions bad'.

• I changed the background of the pact/mine so that the history as-written is the accepted version of events; but the truth of the mine's collapse was something more like, harnessing the natural font of magic to create the Forge of Spells upset the balance of the surrounding area, and the town/mine fell to attacks from monsters driven to desperation by the lack of resources to support them, and the orcs' involvement was inflated to pin them as the perpetrators instead of the pactmakers admitting they fucked up.
  
• I've reskinned the Redbrands from a straight-out bandit group, now they started out as kind of a citizen's militia to defend against further attacks during the rebuilding of Phandalin, then as time passed several compounding factors (incl. the installation of Glasstaff) led them to start throwing their influence around and hassling the townsfolk for 'protection' taxes and whatnot. (loosely inspired by disco elysium's hardy boys)
  
• Nezznar just sucks so I replaced him with a half-orc sorcerer PC i played in a one-shot before and really enjoy, and she's recruited Reidoth the druid to help instigate more monster attacks on the town/party and do ecoterrorism with her (instead of her acting through glasstaff and the goblins)
  
• "sildar" and "gundren" are reskinned as a variant "fighter" and a forge cleric, and are acting to reopen the mine without the party's input (one pc met them early on and they told him his peaceful hermetic druid life was going to be disrupted by the 'inevitable' gold rush when they reopened the mine so he wants to stop them... he is doing a shrek plot. it's fine.) and they may end up being the actual BBEG's depending on the party's actions. They have many opportunities and resources to aid the party with up until the party actually has cause to communicate with them that they don't want the mine reopened. (I also have a very weird party makeup with some extraplanar races so the original idea was that this band of misfits would be kind of 'cleaning up after' a couple of more conventional adventurers that don't pay attention to the consequences of their actions)
  
• I have a potential concept for the goblins in cragmaw cave to be affected by some kind of curse or illness, possibly caused by the nothic in tresendar manor and implemented by the RB's to 'cull the monster population'? - that the party can investigate the cause of and possibly cure, instead of having the goblins just be bandits (none of us are huge fans of any sapient race having a default alignment)
  

If anyone has any suggestions for other twists or ways fo rework some of the other sidequests, I'd love to hear ideas! Clarifying questions about this variant are welcome too, if you want to borrow any of my rewritten material feel free :) TIA!
tl;dr - looking for suggestions to alter sidequests in LMoP to slant toward more environmental/ecological themes, putting PCs in ethical binds, and/or maybe some related horror elements

This is for the guy trying to say not to give money to homeless people flying a sign. This my personal experience from being homeless in Wilmington. I can't say as I speak for everyone, just my experience. 

I'm still homeless, but I've moved out of Wilmington. I had to teach myself how to read and write all over again, and this is what I do now. I hope you enjoy.

 Six-thirty am, I woke up to my alarm. I had to be at work at nine, and I didn't want to be frazzled from being in panic mode on my first day, hurried, and hassled. No, sir. You don't get too many chances to make a first impression. 

 Rolled out of my sleeping bag with a smooth, well practiced motion, unzipped the flap, and made my way out into brisk spring morning air, taking a brief pause, taking in the natural beuaty of the forest. If it hadn't been for the sounds of the highway a few hundred yards away, this scene could have been from a camping trip or hike that I remembered from days gone by. I didn't pause to think about too long due to the urgency to find a suitable tree to relieve myself. Fifty feet, at least. Fifty feet. Otherwise, that smell could come back to haunt you. This wasn't a camping trip but rather where I lived. My homestead, abode, residence, shelter, and as far as I could tell, it would be for a long time to come. 

 I decided to drink my energy drink, which had come to replace my morning cup of brew, outside this fine morn, so I made my way back to the tent and pulled my Monster can and my half full box of handrolled cigarettes from their hiding places, turned around and walked the fifteen feet to my "visiting bench". Aptly named because that's where we all sat when someone came visiting, which wasn't very often, a few feet in front was the small firepit. A hundred or so yards beyond, down a respectable hill, sat Frankies tent, another fifty yards at the split in the trail was Chris's small pup tent, where a small pile of trash meant that Chris and I needed to talk. This was my site, and I had few rules, and trash was something I didn't want to see. 

 According to the rules out here, our social contract, the first person at a campsite was in charge and I had spent the last month of winter all alone here to earn the right to call the shots. After all, it was deemed The Allen Compound for the Criminally Insane by my friend who led a real boots on the ground street outreach in town, someone that I had insane respect for and not a small bit of love. We weren't. I won't speak to insane. 

 I took a seat on the bench, popped the top on the Monster, lit up a smoke, and took a big long pull of the drink. Spring was starting to show now, and the highway was slowly starting to hide behind the new growth of forest. My tent was already invisible from the road thanks to a large camouflaged tarp that I had strung to block the view once I recovered from the panic attack following the discovery of how visible it once was. That discovery came not long after I set up camp, as I was returning from town. Walking down the shoulder of the highway, I just happened to look up in the direction of my camp and saw that my tent sat in the middle of a big clearing of branches, making a perfect frame for my work of art. The realization that thousands of people could have seen that on a daily basis. I was live bait for any psychotic person or persons to visit on a full moon. Recalling the stories of people setting sleeping people on fire for the fun of watching a human cook, I instantly turned on my heels and headed back into town, a spy who just realized he'd been compromised. I didn't return until I had a tarp, but even then, it was some time before sleep came easy. 

 Seven am and the spring sun were now spreading its rays of love to its children in the forest undergrowth, letting everything know it was day shift now in the kingdom. Down below, I spied Frankie, who piled out of his tent and sprinted to a tree like his bladder had caught fire. At the sight of this, I barked three times in greeting. He threw his head back and made a rooster crow, knowing it would wake Chris up long enough to feel the urgency. And by the time I stood up finish the last bit of my morning nectar, sure enough, scrambled out of his tent and instantly let it go right beside where his head would lay when he slept. I shook my head and trudged to my place to change clothes. A light blue polo type short sleeve tucked neatly into my cleanest pair of jeans, then a long sleeve light flannel over that as a precaution, because a lesson learned early is that you dressed for all day. There was no going home to get a coat when the temps plummeted, so it was wise to have that coat ready at all times. I changed my socks, put on my shoes and out of the flap I went. I closed it up and placed a pine needle inside the zipper that would let me know when I got back if anyone had violated my space. 

Seven ten am, and I was on my way. I had fourty minutes to be at the bus stop a little over a mile from the camp and I didn't want to be late, so off I went down the trail, just past Frankies tent I took a left, pausing just long enough to notice that Chris had gone back to bed and left his flap door open, then another fifty yard and over the fence to what I referred to as the 'exposed zone'. There, I was out of the woods walking down a small trail hidden only from the waist down by overgrown weeds and grass. The exposed zone went about a hundred and fifty yards to the shoulder of the highway, where I would merge left, facing the oncoming traffic. At that point, it wouldn't be so obvious to passing cars that I had just emerged from the woods, and the exact spot would no doubt be a mystery. There, my pace stepped up to an average of four miles an hour, something that I had clocked many times, and these days, it was a knowledge that came in handy. I could deal with being homeless, but not tardy. Every minute I walked along the shoulder of the highway, I was fraught with danger, at least in my overactive brain. I could envision cars swerving to miss the car ahead and turning me into a hood ornament, or blowing a tire and taking me out when the driver loses control for that half a second. Maybe something would fall out of the many dump trucks that passed frequently at seventy miles an hour and cleanly decapitate me before I even saw it coming. Why not? It's not like I was having a good luck streak, let's be honest. 

Seven fifty am and I managed to make it to the bus stop with all my organs just where they should be and my head still attached to my body. I lit up a smoke and fished three quarters out of my pocket, ready to pay my way and go to work. The bus pulled up on time, and I climbed aboard, nodding to the driver in solidarity, one working man to the other, dropped my coins of passage into the box, turned and found an empty seat by the window. I watched as the scenery went from historical homes with their gates and carefully tended lawns to the brown crabgrass and dirt yards where the children played in poverty, then to the blocks of businesses where hopes and dreams were born and died, with their big banners proclaiming another last chance at big savings, or let you know that for the twentieth time this furniture store was going out of business and these prices wouldn't last. Nothing but a higher class of a carnival barker. Free financing, limited time only, no interest for ninety days, credit same as cash, act now, last chance to save, overstocked and marked down, employee pricing, never before savings, trade ins welcome, don't miss out, and my all time favorite, below wholesale. Imagine that a business surviving by losing money. The saddest part of it all is that these tactics worked on people. For the second time that morning, I shook my head. 

Eight thirty eight am and the doors open at my destination, my job site, half the bus stood up to depart. Standing up and slipping No. 7 onto my shoulders, I let the line shuffle past me with the knowledge that I had time to spare 

 Eight forty, I stepped off the bus, gravitating to have a smoke with a small group of like-minded people who nodded their approval as I approached. The signal that I was accepted in the circle of debauchery. I made it clear, though, that I had no time to make small talk because I had to go to work and I was a responsible person. On time, it was late, and ten minutes early was on time. That was my motto, starting now, at least. Eight fourty five am I started to the job site, feeling the anxiety butterflies come to life in the pit of my stomach. I had never done this sort of work before, and I hoped I would catch on quick. 

 Eight fifty am, and I was standing beside the exit lane of the Walmart Superstore on a patch of grass where the stopsign was planted, dropping No. 7 to the earth. I bent over and unzipped the section that contained the piece of cardboard. As I put my fingers on it, I felt emotions pour over me, a mixture of shame, embarrassment, and determination. This was my third try at this, but I was determined not to chicken out this time, so, choking everything back down I pulled the sign from my bag and turned to face the cars coming up to the stop sign so I could show them the story of my life, condensed down to some scribbles from a Sharpie which read, 'Traumatic Brain Injury' in large lettering, with a smaller, 'Please Help' below. I'd never felt so alone as I did in that spot light that day at Walmart, that my life had led me to this point, here with a sign begging for money from strangers to get things I needed. It seemed like I couldn't even breathe with my phone service cut off, as I still felt sure that my son would call me at any minute to see how I was, and knowing that life line was severed was unbearable. 

 A grey van with a logo pulled up to the stop sign and I heard one of the doors open, then close, so I turned around to see someone jogging up to me, holding out his hand with a twenty dollar bill pinched in his fingers, "Here you go, brother. Take care of yourself, my man, "then back to the van and was gone. 

I broke. Just like that. I broke.

Introduction: Madame Web, the latest addition to Netflix’s superhero lineup, has unfortunately crash-landed with critics. Despite its intriguing concept and talented cast, the film falls flat in numerous areas. This article aims to dives deep into the good and bad aspects of Madame Web, providing a comprehensive review for potential viewers.
Intriguing Concept: Madame Web takes inspiration from a lesser-known character in the Spider-Man universe. The film blends elements of precognition and danger, drawing comparisons to both Final Destination and Terminator. This unique premise had the potential to set Madame Web apart from other superhero films, promising a mix of suspense and action.
Dakota Johnson’s Performance: One of the film’s few saving graces is Dakota Johnson’s performance as Cassandra Webb. Despite a weak script, Johnson manages to deliver a charismatic portrayal of an overly shocked woman grappling with newfound abilities. Her charm and effort in bringing depth to her character provide a some enjoyable essence from the film’s other shortcomings.
The Flawed Script: The most significant downfall of Madame Web is its script. The dialogue is clunky, often resorting to heavy exposition dumps that disrupt the flow of the story. Furthermore, the plot is convoluted and underdeveloped, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. These issues make it difficult for the audience to fully engage with the film.
Action Overload: While action sequences are a staple of superhero films, Madame Web overdoes it. The movie relies heavily on chaotic and poorly edited action scenes that detract from the overall narrative. Instead of adding excitement, these sequences often feel disorienting and excessive.
Wasted Potential of the Supporting Cast: Madame Web features a supporting cast with several familiar faces. Unfortunately, their talents are wasted due to underdeveloped characters. These roles lack depth and fail to make a significant impact, leaving viewers disappointed by the missed opportunities
Madame Web’s Powers: A Missed Opportunity: The core concept of Madame Web’s precognitive abilities is one of the film’s most intriguing aspects. However, the execution falls short, failing to fully explore or utilize these powers in a compelling way. This aspect could have added a unique twist to the story but ends up feeling like an afterthought.
Critics’ Reception: Critics have been largely unimpressed with Madame Web. Common points of criticism include the flawed script, excessive action, and wasted potential of the cast and concept. While some appreciate Dakota Johnson’s performance, it is not enough to beautify the film in the eyes of most reviewers.
Audience Reaction: General audience feedback mirrors the sentiments of critics, though there are some differences. While many viewers share the frustrations with the script and action scenes, a portion of the audience finds some enjoyment in the film’s campy elements. This divide highlights the film’s polarizing nature.
Comparisons to Other Superhero Films: When compared to other superhero films available on Netflix, Madame Web falls short. Titles like The Old Guard and Project Power offer more cohesive storytelling and better-executed action sequences. For viewers seeking quality superhero content, these alternatives are more likely to satisfy.
Cinematic Elements: Madame Web’s cinematography and special effects are a mixed bag. While there are moments of visual appeal, inconsistencies in the CGI and overall production quality detract from the viewing experience. These issues contribute to the film’s inability to fully immerse its audience.
Direction and Production: The director’s vision for Madame Web appears to be blurred, resulting in a film that lacks clear direction. Production design and quality also suffer, with elements that feel rushed or underdeveloped. These factors further compound the film’s shortcomings.
Themes and Messages: Madame Web attempts to explore themes of fate, destiny, and the burden of precognition. However, the execution of these themes is inconsistent, and the film struggles to convey its messages effectively. This leaves the main theme elements feeling shallow and unfulfilled.
Potential for a Sequel: Despite its flaws, Madame Web leaves room for potential sequels. However, significant improvements are needed for future installments. A more cohesive script, better character development, and refined action sequences would be essential to win back both critics and audiences.
Conclusion In conclusion, Madame Web is a disappointing addition to Netflix’s superhero roster. While Dakota Johnson’s performance and the intriguing premise offer glimpses of potential, the film is ultimately hindered by a flawed script, chaotic action, and wasted opportunities. Unless you’re a die-hard superhero movie fan or curious about a potential “so bad it’s good” experience, this film is best avoided. Click here to know the top 10 shows on Netflix

So I just finished Grievar's Blood, and it was a decent book. It seems like a lot of people. though, were giving it extremely high praise on Goodreads, and I came here to see if anyone who read it had the same issues with it I did. I want to preface this by saying I absolutely loved Combat Codes, and I enjoy the world that has been built up, as well as the characters. However, I don't feel like book 2 did them justice.
My first problem with the book, and my biggest complaint, is the split perspective. In book one, we really only saw two perspectives: Murray and Cego. I enjoyed both of their arcs and storylines, and I think his split perspective worked really well because he was only dividing the book between two characters. For a 450 page book, that's not too bad. But the problem in book 2 is that there were like 5 characters he split between. Cego, Silas, Sol, Memmnon, and Murray.
Now, don't get me wrong, I was ecstatic that Sol got her own story arc. It is unfortunately common in books for the female love interest to stop existing whenever it's not important to the main male character. So her having an entire arc away from Cego for stuff that was important to her is awesome. However... I really did not care for Memmnon's stuff or for Silas' stuff. I don't think you're supposed to like Silas, but I didn't even like reading about Silas.
But the quality of these arcs were not even the problem. Sol and Cego had good arcs, and Murray's was half decent, but like. The book was like 420 pages if you cut out the index and sneak peek stuff. Split that among as many characters as he did? I mean Cego really only had like 80 pages dedicated to him. Split perspective works in books like the Wheel of Time or Way of Kings because those books are so big that the characters you care about get hundreds of pages dedicated to them in each book. Hell, in the Way of Kings, each main character basically has their own entire book worth of pages. Like somewhere close to 350-450 pages each book.
I'm not saying that every other needs to write 1000+ page books. I've seen some smaller books where split perspective is done well... but I mean... split between two... MAYBE 3 characters. Like, Cego's ark ended 58% of the way through the book! You didn't see him for the ENTIRE second half of the book except for 3 pages at the end. It just didn't sit right with me. I wanted more Cego and more Sol.
My second problem with the book is it seems to struggle a lot with what genre it is. It is mostly Sci-Fi. I mean the setting is like 3,500 years AFTER the Grievar's started fighting for the Daimyo. That's a long time, and there was a lot of history before it. There is lots of technology. Flyers, Mechs, Guns, basically lightsabers. This is clearly Sci-Fi for the most part. However... it also throws in fantasy elements. The spectrals are not quite science. And in this book, he makes it even harder on us. It was already confusing when Cego's spectral was doing all that mystic bullshit and he was hearing Farmer's voice often, but in this book, Murray outright hallucinates Farmer. Except... what hallucination can superimpose its will on a mech suit?
Fantasy novels need explanation for mystical shit. Usually you get tidbits through folk lore, children's songs, etc. Good world building gives you a general idea of how the common people see this stuff. However, in this book... nobody knows what's happening? What's happening is so new to the world that there ARE no stories. Things kept happening with no explanation and the in-world reason is because there is no explanation. It is fine to keep reader's slightly uninformed, but like... the book ended and nothing was explained. I was left completely confused. Not guessing, confused. There's nothing for me to guess. There were no hints. We have 3 important characters who claim to hear or see things that aren't there. Silas, Cego, and Murray. And none of that is explained at all, and it won't be until book 3 comes out. I don't know, but that just does not sit right with me.
Let me know if I'm missing things or perhaps didn't take the book the way it's meant to be. I might not have been the right audience for this book. The thing is, I've read a lot of fantasy. Combat Codes had a lot of things I liked. It was a fun mixture of Red Rising, Rage of Dragons, and Lightbringer. But a lot of the things I enjoyed from book one (the fighting, the characters, and the romance) were completely missing in book 2. There was less fighting, Sol and Cego actually spent more time reminiscing about the characters we love than we actually saw them interacting with the characters we love, and Sol and Cego were separated so the romance didn't progress.

To note, this is a continuation of the sagas I wrote that took place after the Cell Saga. The two sagas were written with inspiration taken from MCU Peter Parker's arcs in Far from Home and No Way Home. The goal was to develop Son Gohan into a proper lead for the show. If you'd like to check them out, here are the links!
Bojack (Far From Home) Saga: https://www.reddit.com/fixingmovies/s/sK5zOnJ0oU
Broly (No Way Home) Saga: https://www.reddit.com/fixingmovies/s/R3sGOqdbIv
There are many things I find wrong in the Buu saga:

1. Goku coming back: This derails the narrative tremendously as he snatches back the torch from Gohan. He's going to play a role, but he will stay dead.
2. Gohan's writing: In canon, we ended up with a rusty, goofy, badly written character who lost all the development from the previous sagas. He became a useless disappointment and did not uphold his role as a protector of the earth. This won't go anywhere near that direction.
3. SSJ3 and fusions: These elements were unnecessary as they did nothing to solve the plot and only provided fluff. This can be introduced in Super, but that's another story.
4. Goten and Trunks SSJ: I wasn't a fan of how they easily transformed, treating it as an easy power-up. Here, it will be earned.

What I want to do here is combine the Buu saga with Fusion Reborn. For that movie, there are tons of elements at play that can be used to make the grand finale of Dragon Ball Z, more grand. The goal here is to increase the stakes, trim all the unnecessary fat, give everyone a chance to shine, and keep the main focus on Gohan. I also want to replace Buu with Janemba, as I find him much more threatening due to his unique abilities which would be perfect to challenge Gohan. It's also here that we avoid the rinse-and-repeat problem that came with Buu and his many forms.

Without further ado, here is the...... Janemba Saga!

Seven years have passed since the climactic battle against Broly. Gohan, now a young adult, has diligently pursued a delicate balance between his studies and training. During this time, he has honed his Super Saiyan 2 form and significantly elevated his combat skills. However, he deliberately restrains his power, refusing to succumb to the depths of his inner rage. Gohan believes that his technical prowess alone will suffice, opting to suppress the primal fury within him. Despite his reservations, Gohan attends a prestigious private school on an academic scholarship, alongside his steadfast companion Videl and their circle of friends. Gohan has embraced the responsibility of preserving peace on Earth as a valiant hero, adopting the mantle of Saiyaman. His suit has undergone a sleek redesign, shedding the theatrical poses in favor of a more streamlined appearance. Functioning as a dynamic duo reminiscent of Superman and Batman, Gohan and Videl tackle the city's crime wave together. Videl, having mastered her ki abilities under the tutelage of Piccolo, has grown stronger over the years. Glimpses of their everyday lives reveal the struggles of Gohan as he endeavors to balance the demands of school, training, and personal relationships. Amidst the challenges, he harbors a subtle resentment towards his duty, as it often encroaches upon his cherished personal time. Nevertheless, Gohan persists, fueled by his unwavering determination to live up to his father's legacy.
However, the tranquil facade is shattered when a harrowing turn of events unfolds. The narrative transitions to an otherworldly realm, distinctly separate from Earth. A mysterious figure cloaked in darkness materializes, none other than the malevolent wizard Babidi. Harnessing the unholy power of dark magic, Babidi establishes a sinister connection with his loyal minion Dabura, the King of the Demon Realm. United in their nefarious purpose, they orchestrate an audacious invasion of Otherworld, intent on freeing the formidable demon Janemba. Ages ago, Janemba had been sealed away in this celestial realm by the Supreme Kais. Babidi's malevolent ambition revolves around shrouding the universe in eternal darkness. To achieve this nightmarish vision, he plans to infect the denizens of Earth using the insidious Majin spell, thereby expanding his dominion across countless planets.
In the midst of this burgeoning chaos, Gohan, disguised as Saiyaman, finds himself investigating a peculiar incident involving the possession of one of his dearest friends. Videl, resolute and fearless, engages in a fierce battle against the malevolent puppeteer controlling Sharpner. With unwavering confidence, she urges Gohan to let her confront the threat alone. Sharpner, his strength unnaturally augmented, puts up a formidable resistance, but Videl's experience enables her to subdue him without resorting to fatal measures. As Sharpner awakens from his trance, Gohan seeks answers regarding the enigmatic force that had seized control of his friend. Sharpner reveals that a voice called Babidi had whispered malevolent commands into his mind. Armed with this critical information, Gohan summons Vegeta and Piccolo to join him in unraveling the unfolding crisis, embarking on a journey towards the epicenter of the ominous power emanating from a series of potent and wicked ki signatures, ultimately leading them to Babidi and Dabura.
Meanwhile, Earth becomes a battleground, besieged by an onslaught of resurrected zombies, soldiers, and former villains who once terrorized its populace. Though the trio finds themselves torn between aiding their beleaguered planet and confronting the imminent threat directly before them, they know their immediate priority lies in thwarting Babidi's scheme. Distracting them with his grandiose monologue, Babidi probes their minds, seeking susceptible individuals to manipulate. Initially targeting Vegeta, Babidi redirects his attention toward Piccolo, sensing his inherent duality as a being born of both good and evil. With a combination of Babidi's insidious spell and the lingering malevolence of Piccolo Daimao, the Namekian warrior struggles to resist the overwhelming influence. His powers surge exponentially beyond their previous limitations, clouding his judgment and driving him to confront his former student, Gohan. Amidst the shock of this unforeseen twist, Gohan assumes the responsibility of awakening Piccolo from his trance-like state, determined to restore his mentor's clarity. As the battle rages on, they sense a tremor that reverberates throughout the planet, an unmistakable ki signature brimming with icy coldness, signifying the presence of a singular entity—Janemba.
Bracing himself for the impending clash with this malevolent force, Gohan prepares to face Janemba head-on, while Piccolo embarks on a personal mission to neutralize Babidi. Meanwhile, Vegeta remains locked in a fierce struggle against Dabura, the Prince of Saiyans confronting the King of the Demon Realm. The confrontation unfolds with brutal intensity, and Vegeta finds himself teetering on the edge of defeat. Sensing his adversary's advantage, Dabura unleashes a legion of demons to tip the scales further in his favor. Pushed to his limits, Vegeta fights valiantly, but the odds appear insurmountable. Dabura, consumed by arrogance, revels in his imminent triumph, announcing his intention to unleash the full might of the demon horde upon Earth. Faced with the dire consequences of such a cataclysm, Vegeta musters every ounce of desperation within him. In a moment of self-sacrifice, he unleashes a devastating attack upon Dabura and his minions. The resulting explosion weakens Babidi's forces, repels the encroaching Demon Realm, and safeguards their dimension from untold chaos and devastation.
(Note: I wanted to keep Vegeta's sacrifice but make it matter and count. In canon, it didn't stop Buu, and he sent himself into cold oblivion on a lie. Here, he makes a difference in the long run and has a definitive redemptive moment. )
Startled by the sudden disappearance of Vegeta's powerful ki, Trunks defies the protests of his comrades on the Lookout and rushes towards the chaotic battleground. His heart pounds with trepidation as he races through the smoke-filled air, only to be confronted with the lifeless body of his father lying motionless on the ground. Overwhelmed by a torrent of despair and seething rage, Trunks' trembling hands reach out to shake his father awake, his desperate pleas echoing through the desolate landscape. But his efforts prove futile, and a profound sense of loss engulfs him.
In the midst of this heart-wrenching moment, a surge of raw energy courses through Trunks' veins, igniting a transformation that surpasses the boundaries of his mortal self. Radiating an aura of vibrant golden light, Trunks ascends to the legendary state of the Super Saiyan. His eyes ablaze with determination and fury, he is now ready to face the battle that lies ahead.The scene shifts, revealing the remaining Z-Fighters locked in a perilous struggle against hordes of relentless zombies. Fatigue weighs heavily upon their weary bodies as they fend off the relentless onslaught. Suddenly, a streak of intense power streaks across the sky, and Trunks descends before his comrades, newly transformed and brimming with indomitable strength. A burst of energy erupts from his fingertips, shattering a ki blast launched by one of the zombies, diverting it harmlessly away. In the eyes of his adversaries, astonishment mingles with mockery as they behold the sight of a mere child standing before them.Unfazed by their taunting laughter, Trunks addresses his comrades with unwavering resolve. He declares that he will shoulder the burden of the battle, vowing that not a single life will be lost on this day. With unparalleled speed and precision, he charges towards the encroaching horde, obliterating each zombie with astonishing ease. Their forces crumble beneath the might of his wrath, and the battlefield is transformed into a graveyard of defeated foes.As the last of the zombies falls, Trunks relinquishes his Super Saiyan form, his energy spent and body drained. Collapsing to the ground, he succumbs to exhaustion, his breathing ragged and labored. In this moment of vulnerability, Yamcha, recognizing the young warrior's valor, rushes to his side and gently lifts him from the battlefield, cradling his battered form with utmost care.
(Note: Kid Trunks' transformation is a direct reference to when Future Trunks found Gohan dead after the battle with the androids, and then he transformed. )
While this tumultuous event unfolded, the responsibility of safeguarding the Lookout fell upon the young shoulders of Goten. As time passed, a sudden intrusion disrupted the tranquility of the platform, as a malevolent henchman, infused with the dark power of King Cold, materialized before him. Though momentarily shaken, Goten summoned his courage and engaged in a valiant struggle against his formidable adversary.Initially, it appeared that Goten held his ground admirably, skillfully countering the attacks launched by the nefarious duo of Salza and Dore. However, their sinister coordination gradually began to overpower the young warrior. In a devastating display of force, Salza executed a malicious kick that sent Goten hurtling towards the precipice of the Lookout, teetering on the brink of unconsciousness.
Witnessing her son's battered and vulnerable state, Chi-Chi, consumed by a mixture of horror and fury, lunged at Salza in a desperate attempt to defend her child. Yet, her efforts proved futile as Salza callously seized her by the throat, mercilessly constricting the life from her. From his weakened position, Goten, wide-eyed and mouth agape, struggled to remain conscious, his mind besieged by the conflicting emotions of impending death and the weight of disappointment.
In that critical moment, he closed his eyes, his teeth sinking into his lip until blood stained his mouth. His trembling hands clenched into tight fists. And then, something within him snapped, unleashing a primal force that lay dormant within.Goten vanished, replaced by an embodiment of unbridled rage. Transformed into a Super Saiyan, his furious aura radiated with an intensity that defied comprehension. With a surge of unrestrained power, he propelled himself towards Salza, obliterating his malevolent foe with a devastating blast that eradicated him from existence. Undeterred by the remaining henchmen who sought to avenge their fallen comrade, Goten engaged them with a newfound ferocity.In a breathtaking display of combat prowess, it took mere moments for Goten to dispatch his adversaries, consigning them to the depths of the afterlife. Unaware of his mother's watchful gaze, Chi-Chi bore witness to the astonishing transformation of her once-innocent son, her heart filled with awe at the unfathomable power he now wielded.
(Note: This is a reference to when Superman had attacked Zod for attacking Martha in Man of Steel. With this, Goten is able to break out of his shell and experience some development. I also did not want Chi-Chi to die, but to have it be close. This way, she can witness firsthand her son fighting to avenge her and realizing that his saiyan blood kicked in to save them all, which would lead to some development towards her accepting that they have the natural power to fight, but also protect. )
Simultaneously, amidst the chaos, Piccolo found himself embroiled in a fierce battle of magic. His objective was to shatter the impenetrable barrier erected by his adversary, Babidi, to halt the relentless proliferation of Majin-infused beings. The odds were stacked against him, but with unwavering determination, Piccolo summoned the strength to rupture the barrier, ultimately delivering a fatal blow to Babidi. In doing so, he succeeded in halting the insidious spread of the Majin curse.Meanwhile, Gohan, driven by an overwhelming surge of power in his Super Saiyan 2 form, charged headlong at the formidable Fat Janemba, intent on swiftly ending the confrontation. Displaying remarkable valor, Gohan engaged his adversary with all his might, momentarily gaining the upper hand in fleeting bursts of fury. However, Janemba's energy continued to surge unabated, gradually overpowering Gohan and relegating him to a defensive stance.With the battle reaching its climax, Janemba unleashed a devastating onslaught aimed at obliterating the planet. In a desperate bid to protect all that he held dear, Gohan fearlessly interposed himself between Janemba's lethal assault and the world, extending his arms wide as he summoned the last vestiges of his ki to create a resolute energy shield. The technique demanded one final act of defiance, compelling Gohan to redirect the unleashed energy back towards Janemba, propelling the malevolent entity backward and teetering on the precipice of annihilation. Yet, the maneuver exacted a heavy toll on Gohan, leaving him grievously injured and drained of consciousness, hurtling through the sky and crashing deep into the untamed wilderness.
(Note: This maneuver is a mix of what Gohan did against Broly in Movie 10, and what Future Gohan did in his last battle against the androids.)
Subsequently, Supreme Kai, recognizing the dire condition of the young warrior, transported Gohan to the realm of the Kais. As Gohan gradually regained consciousness, he found himself surrounded by the presence of Supreme Kai, Kibito, and his father, Son Goku. Unbeknownst to Gohan, while the realms beyond had been engulfed in pandemonium, Goku had valiantly sought to subdue numerous formidable adversaries, most notably Broly. Upon learning of Gohan's presence on that distant planet, Goku implored for the opportunity to visit his son, a request that was granted amidst the bittersweet reunion.During their heartfelt meeting, they shared the weight of overseeing the turmoil ravaging Earth, realizing that Janemba still lingered, amassing the remnants of malevolent ki left unvanquished. Panic washed over Gohan as he urgently expressed his need to return to Earth, but his pleas were met with cautionary words from his loved ones. They acknowledged his unpreparedness to face Janemba anew, warning of the potential consequences should he engage the foe prematurely. Supreme Kai disclosed his true intention in bringing Gohan to this realm—to unlock the dormant power lying dormant within him. However, the process demanded a profound reconciliation of Gohan's dual nature as both human and Saiyan. To initiate this transformative ritual, Gohan would be immersed in a meditative trance within the sacred confines of a cascading waterfall, which would serve as a mirror reflecting his true self. Only then would he embark upon the arduous journey of unlocking his latent potential, fully aware that failure could result in dire consequences, even death.
Nervously, Gohan steeled himself for the imminent trial, drawing strength from the unwavering support of his father. With resolute determination, he approached the cascading waterfall, where Supreme Kai initiated the trance, enveloping Gohan in an ethereal aura of introspection.As the ritual commenced, Gohan's gaze fixated grimly upon vivid recollections of his past battles, struggling to reconcile the moments when he had succumbed to his own wrath. Before long, a projection materialized, representing his suppressed Saiyan essence—a separate entity demanding to be acknowledged. A tumultuous clash ensued between the two facets of Gohan's being, with the young warrior faltering in his attempts to gain the upper hand, for each surge of anger only fueled his other self. Finally, a profound realization washed over Gohan, piercing through the haze of conflict. He ceased resisting and, instead, extended a hand of acceptance and understanding to his Saiyan counterpart, embracing the essence of his true nature. In that transformative instant, the boundaries dissolved, merging into a harmonious unity. Gohan's eyes fluttered open as he awakened from the trance, reborn in his newfound Ultimate Form, his essence finally whole and indomitable.
(Note: Yes, this is a direct reference to Naruto obtaining true mastery of his nine tails form in Shippuden. I did not like Gohan's canon mystic ritual because it did not feel earned. He just sat around for a long time doing nothing and gained nothing from it. I wanted to fix that. So here, he went through a more direct ritual at the risk of death to be able to unlock his true abilities. )
In the midst of these events, Trunks and Goten find themselves under the tutelage of Piccolo within the formidable Hyperbolic Time Chamber. News reaches Piccolo that Gohan is undergoing a transformative process to unlock his latent potential, but the looming return of Janemba threatens to disrupt their plans. Exiting the chamber, Trunks and Goten emerge stronger than ever, having mastered their Super Saiyan forms and honed their teamwork to near perfection, compensating for their inherent power limitations.As Janemba crosses paths with them, the clash erupts in a spectacular display of martial prowess. Individually, they stand little chance against the overwhelming might of Janemba, but when united, a different narrative unfolds. Their combined efforts aim to sustain the battle long enough, providing Gohan with the precious time he needs to complete his ritual. Piccolo assumes leadership, valiantly holding his ground, although it becomes increasingly evident that Janemba possesses a distinct advantage. Piccolo strategically diverts Janemba's attention, creating openings for Goten and Trunks to launch coordinated assaults that vex their adversary, even if their impact is minimal. Nonetheless, every second counts.
In a fateful turn of events, Janemba unleashes an assault that overwhelms Piccolo, incapacitating him and leaving only Goten and Trunks to face the malevolent entity. Swift as a phantom, Janemba materializes in front of Trunks, delivering a devastating blow to his abdomen, leaving Goten as the lone defender. Standing tall, Goten defiantly assumes a battle stance, mustering his courage. However, before Janemba can unleash a devastating attack upon him, an unknown figure delivers a powerful kick to Janemba's head, hurtling him towards the distant mountains.
The camera pans, revealing the figure to be none other than Gohan, resplendent in his newfound form.
(Note: This entrance directly mirrors that of Future Gohan when he was about to begin his final battle against the Androids!)
A wave of elation washes over Goten as he beholds the return of his beloved elder brother, while Trunks and Piccolo visibly exhale with relief. Gohan and Piccolo exchange a brief but meaningful exchange, Gohan acknowledging his newfound strength while Piccolo recognizes that Gohan has ascended to an entirely different echelon. Janemba regains his footing, reemerging before them, demanding their attention and focus. Gohan asserts that he will confront Janemba directly, urging the others to evacuate. Though reluctant, Piccolo and the young warriors comply, dispersing to various parts of the world to address the chaos that plagues their surroundings.
With an air of fury, Janemba charges at Gohan, his fist extended menacingly. Yet Gohan intercepts the attack, seizing Janemba's fist in a vice-like grip, and in a flash of teleportation, they are transported to the dreaded realm of H.F.I.L. (Home For Infinite Losers).
(Note: I have Gohan teleport Janemba because at least this way their battle will not damage Earth. Also we will assume Gohan has figured out some sort of Instant Transmission movement like Goku.)
The eyes of Earth's denizens, the Kais, and the denizens of the Otherworld are fixated on this pivotal moment, the culmination of a battle that will determine the fate of the universe. And so, the clash commences, a cataclysmic struggle that echoes through the very fabric of existence.
In a breathtaking display of power, Gohan initially dominates the battle, effortlessly overpowering Janemba with his newfound might. However, the tables turn when Janemba unveils unexpected abilities: space-time manipulation and a formidable sword. Gohan is caught off guard, unsure of how to counter such unorthodox tactics. Desperation and frustration consume him, causing his control over his own power to slip away.Amidst the chaos, Gohan experiences a moment of revelation, a surge of understanding regarding his opponent's abilities. He realizes that in order to anticipate Janemba's next move, he must heighten his senses by channeling his ki, allowing for precise timing and swift reactions. With this newfound clarity, Gohan regains his composure, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. Seizing an opportunity, Janemba materializes before him, poised to strike with his sword. Yet, in a stunning display of strength, Gohan catches the blade with both hands, shattering it into pieces.
The tide of the battle begins to shift, albeit slightly, in Gohan's favor. Frustrated and bewildered, Janemba exclaims, "Just what...are you?!" Gohan responds with unwavering resolve, proclaiming, "I am the hope of the universe. I am the answer to all living things that cry out for peace. I am the protector of the innocent. I am the light in the darkness. I am truth. Ally to good! Nightmare to you!"
(Note: I'm taking Goku's dubbed speech against Frieza and repurposing it for Gohan. As he's inherently more the justice-driven hero archetype rather than the fighting maniac that is Goku, it makes more sense. We'll just assume Goku gave Frieza the manga version of his speech. This is also the most pivotal moment of Gohan's journey as he comes to terms with being a protector. Throughout the show, he's been struggling between his desire to be a scholar and his responsibility to be a hero. That dubbed speech is exactly the moment that Gohan's arc comes full circle. Here, he finally embraces what he was always meant to be..... the hero.)
With renewed determination, Gohan launches various assaults in a bid to defeat his formidable adversary. However, his attacks fail to inflict lasting damage, and Gohan himself begins to exhaust his ki. It is then that he realizes the true nature of Janemba's existence—he is an embodiment of pure evil ki, unlike any opponent Gohan has faced before. A desperate plan takes shape in Gohan's mind. Mentally reaching out to his friends and even Videl, he calls upon them to gather their ki, reminiscent of the Spirit Bomb technique. Initially, only the Z-Fighters respond, but their combined energy proves insufficient.As Gohan valiantly defends against Janemba's onslaught, he mentally pleads with the people of Earth to lend their aid. Uncertainty and doubt cast a shadow over the crowd until Hercule steps forward, berating them for refusing to support the man who once saved them during the Cell Games. Revealing the truth of Gohan's identity as the Delivery Boy turned hero, the tide of public opinion shifts. People extend their hands, offering their energy to their savior. Shocked by the sudden turn of events, Gohan is relieved by the surge of ki coursing through him, providing a momentary opening to kick Janemba away. The collective assistance grants Gohan a substantial reservoir of energy, which he then summons forth, infusing it with the very essence of his soul—a daring and perilous maneuver.
Driven to his breaking point, a furious Janemba ascends into the sky, conjuring a colossal sphere of malevolent ki capable of obliterating the entire universe. Gohan remains calm, his gaze fixed upon the impending cataclysm. With unwavering resolve, he declares, "This is the end for you, Janemba." Closing his eyes, Gohan raises his left hand above his head, conjuring a radiant sphere of rainbow light. Seizing the opportunity, Janemba hurls his devastating attack towards Gohan. Sensing the imminent danger, Gohan's eyes snap open as he crushes the ball of energy in his palm. Swiftly pivoting, he hurls the fragmented energy towards the oncoming attack, effortlessly piercing through it, and hurtling towards Janemba, finally eradicating the universe's peril once and for all.
(Note: This is the same technique as Kid Buu's Planet Burst move, the one that destroyed Earth. I also repurposed Gogeta's stardust breaker technique for Gohan as I feel it makes sense for him to have it. It also makes him stand out from Goku even more in this case.)
As the dust settles, Gohan maintains his energy long enough to witness Janemba's demise. A triumphant smirk graces his face as he remarks, "Heh, looks like I finally did it." Exhausted, he collapses to the ground, almost completely drained. The onlookers erupt into joyous cheers, celebrating Gohan's hard-fought victory. Supreme Kai teleports Gohan from the depths of H.F.I.L back to Earth, specifically to the Lookout, where his family and friends eagerly await his return. In a heartwarming scene, Gohan is enveloped in embraces and expressions of relief. It is here, amidst the warmth of their loved ones, that Gohan and Videl share their first kiss—a tender moment of connection and celebration.Meanwhile, the Dragon Balls work their magic, rectifying the chaos caused by Babidi's dark influence. The majority of those who perished are revived, yet there are exceptions, including Vegeta. Accepting his fate and determined to atone for his past deeds, Vegeta expresses his desire to continue growing stronger in the afterlife, entrusting the protection of his family to his son. Tearfully, Trunks vows to make his father proud, with Goten stepping forward to support his friend in this emotional moment. Fond farewells are exchanged as everyone prepares to return to their respective homes.
Gohan and Goten engage in a heartfelt conversation, their bond as brothers strengthening. However, their exchange is interrupted by Chi-Chi, who unexpectedly interrupts their conversation. To their astonishment, she expresses pride in their valiant efforts to safeguard the world, finally relenting and granting them permission to train and protect. The three embrace, their family united and resolute.In a different realm, Vegeta stands before King Yemma, awaiting judgment. To his surprise, he is granted an Otherworldly body, a result of Goku's recommendation and Vegeta's ultimate sacrifice that tipped the scales of justice. With this second chance, Vegeta is granted the opportunity to train ceaselessly and, more importantly, to settle his unfinished business with Goku. The final scene between Goku and Vegeta unfolds, their fists colliding in a charged confrontation, their image freezing .( mirroring the intensity of Rocky and Apollo in Rocky III, leaving their ultimate showdown to the imagination.)
A decade passes, marked by a time skip. Tien and Krillin have established their own martial arts schools, dedicated to passing on their unique styles to the next generation. Goten and Trunks, under the tutelage of Piccolo, diligently train to harness their extraordinary powers. Gohan, now a respected scholar, has married Videl, and together they have a daughter. At home, Videl imparts the basics of combat to their daughter, Pan. Gohan, having just finished delivering a lecture on energy at the university, senses a disturbance reverberating across the planet. Instinctively, he rushes to the rooftop, pressing a button on his wrist. In an instant, he transforms into his iconic Saiyaman costume, soaring into the horizon with a mischievous grin. He breaks through the fourth wall, symbolizing his unwavering resolve to protect and inspire.
The screen fades to black.
The End.
There we have it! My final wrap-up of the MCU Peter ParkeGohan development journey! Honestly, I did have thoughts of just going straight into revising the Buu arc, but I felt there was more to be done before that. Gohan needed to go through the development I gave him in my two written arcs as there were lessons there that shaped him.
I also felt that a trained Gohan, who is naturally intellectual, would be a perfect antagonist in Janemba. He had to learn to outsmart him, and not just have it be a straight-up slugfest.
What do you guys think? Share your thoughts below!
u/fatherandyriley
u/dgenerationmc

“Alone in the Dark,” the recent reboot of the iconic survival horror series, has unfortunately become a prime example of how game-breaking bugs can utterly ruin an otherwise promising game. Despite its potential to revive the franchise with modern graphics and mechanics, the experience is marred by a plethora of technical issues that make it nearly unplayable.
First and foremost, the game is plagued with frequent crashes that disrupt the gameplay. Whether you’re in the middle of an intense chase sequence or solving a critical puzzle, the game’s tendency to abruptly crash can be incredibly frustrating. This isn’t an occasional hiccup; it’s a persistent problem that many players have encountered, effectively halting their progress and diminishing their enjoyment.
In addition to crashes, “Alone in the Dark” suffers from severe glitches that can trap the player in unresolvable situations. Characters may become stuck in the environment, unable to move or interact with necessary objects. At times, essential items disappear or fail to spawn, making it impossible to advance the story. These bugs force players to restart from previous save points, often losing significant progress in the process.
Performance issues further compound the game’s troubles. Frame rate drops are frequent, particularly during action-heavy scenes or in areas with complex lighting effects. These slowdowns not only break immersion but can also make combat and exploration feel sluggish and unresponsive.
Moreover, the game’s AI is notoriously unreliable. Enemies frequently exhibit erratic behavior, either becoming inexplicably passive or getting stuck in loops, making encounters feel less threatening and more laughable. This inconsistency detracts from the horror elements, as the sense of danger is undermined by the predictable and often buggy enemy patterns.
The developers have yet to release patches addressing these widespread issues, leaving many players frustrated and disappointed. The game’s narrative and atmosphere show glimpses of the eerie charm that made the original series a classic, but these moments are overshadowed by the overwhelming technical flaws.
In its current state, “Alone in the Dark” is a cautionary tale about the importance of thorough testing and post-launch support. Until the developers address these game-breaking bugs, it’s hard to recommend this title, even to the most die-hard fans of the series. What could have been a successful revival is instead a stark reminder that technical stability is crucial for any game’s success.

I’m trying to make a library of extracts/tinctures for cocktails. The goal is that I have a tincture so concentrated that by adding just two or three 2 ml drops to a cocktail using a dropper, I can make the entire drink taste strongly of whatever I extracted. I’m currently doing this with ginger, but I imagine (hope) these principles extend to freeze-dried fruits, basil, etc.
My original methodology was to make an ethanol infusion of blended ginger as well as a water infusion. I strain both and then combine to reach about 40% ABV. The problem I’m seeing is that the resulting mixture becomes cloudy. I assume that this means that a precipitate is forming due to the polarity and solubility dynamics of the mixture, and that the cloudiness is the flavor compounds falling out of solution. So my plan is to incorporate some (hopefully odorless, tasteless, and colorless) emulsifier (?) to keep everything dissolved.
I have a (bio)chemistry background but not a food science background, so I’m not sure which stabilizers/emulsifiers would be appropriate here. My research seems to indicate that PGA, polysorbate 20, or polysorbate 80 could work, but I’m not sure if this is true (moreover, I don’t know how to determine which of these are best suited for the types of [presumably nonpolar] flavor compounds that are falling out of the alcohol).
Is an emulsifier the best direction to go here? How should I think about selecting the right one for this purpose? Thanks!

The world of incense sticks is rich with records and subculture, and a number of the many sorts to be had, the Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa Incense Stick stands out as a real icon. Loved and revered with the aid of way of hundreds and lots, those incense sticks have a unique perfume that has captivated the senses for many years. In this blog, we are able to discover the adventure of the Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa Incense Stick, its composition, and the motives in the back of its enduring recognition.

The Origins of Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa Incense Stick
The Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa Incense Stick is a product of Shrinivas Sugandhalaya, a known Indian incense business enterprise primarily based via K.N. Satyam Setty. The brand quickly ended up famous for its high-quality incense sticks, specifically the Nag Champa range, which gained international repute. The name "Satya Sai Baba" is related to the spiritual chief who promoted peace and proper-being, and this incense has ended up a staple in religious and meditation practices globally.

The Unique Composition of Nag Champa
What makes the Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa Incense Stick so unique is its awesome mixture of herbal substances. The number one element is Halmaddi, a resin from the Ailanthus Malabarica tree, which offers the incense its sluggish burn and earthy aroma. Combined with sandalwood, numerous floral extracts, and vital oils, the result is a sweet, calming perfume that is each uplifting and grounding.

The Cultural and Spiritual Significance

The Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa Incense Stick is more than clearly a pleasant aroma; it contains deep cultural and religious significance. In Hinduism, incense sticks are used in the path of puja (worship) to purify the environment and create a serene surroundings. The Nag Champa Satya Sai Baba incense, with its soothing scent, is often utilized in meditation and yoga practices to decorate attention and quietness. Its fragrance is a concept to aid in connecting the bodily self with the non secular realm, making it a famous preference for the ones looking for internal peace and spiritual boom.

Global Popularity and Usage

Over the years, the Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa Incense Stick has transcended cultural boundaries and determined a place in homes, meditation centers, and yoga studios around the arena. Its recognition may be attributed to its precise fragrance, which appeals to a full-size audience, and its popularity for exceptional. Whether used in non secular ceremonies, for aromatherapy, or truly to create a chilled environment, this incense stick has come to be an image of tranquility and proper-being.

Tips for Using Nag Champa Incense

To fully enjoy the Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa Incense Stick, it's crucial to use it correctly. Here are some recommendations:

Choose a Safe Holder: Use a proper incense holder to seize the ash and prevent any health risks.
Ventilation: Ensure the room is properly-ventilated to avoid any overwhelming smoke buildup.
Mindful Placement: Place the incense stick faraway from flammable gadgets and drafts to make sure a consistent burn.

Conclusion
The journey of the Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa Incense Stick from its origins in India to becoming a global fragrance phenomenon is a testimony to its particular appeal and religious significance. With its distinct blend of natural materials and calming aroma, it remains an appreciated desire for the ones looking to decorate their religious practices or surely revel in a second of peace and relaxation.

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the arena of incense, the Satya Sai Baba Nag Champa Incense Stick offers a timeless fragrance that transcends cultural boundaries. Embrace the journey of fragrance and find out the enduring enchantment of nag champa satya sai baba incense to your private space.

What does it mean to be multimodal?
The word is nearly synonymous with “polymath,” and yet many of us fail to think on what it truly means. Words like “autodidact” or “multipotentiate” get thrown around, and yet we rarely think about why those are the words we choose to use. So, what does it mean to be multimodal?
The dictionary defines it as “characterized by several different modes of activity or occurrence.” This definition, in its own way, reveals the deeper side of multimodality, one which I feel many individuals on the road to polymathy fail to realize.
This ignored aspect comes from the definition’s use of the word “activity.” While one could certainly view the act of learning as activity, that is only one set of actions. To be truly multimodal, that singular action must be compounded multiple times over, ultimately ruling not only the intellectual aspects of your life but all elements. The act of learning is one element of multimodality, but if nothing comes from it, if that action does not in turn lead to more actions, then you are not multimodal at all. You are simply an individual with a broad spectrum of interests.
I’ve written before about the trap of polymathy, the desire for titles and scope rather than true depth of understanding. As I think more about multimodality this trap once again becomes apparent. We should not learn simply for the sake of learning, there must be some greater driver beyond that. Learning as a means to understand the world around us is a great example. Learning is the what, the understanding of the world around us is the why.
When the why is present, it allows one action to set off a chain of others, ultimately culminating in a sort of lifestyle of flow. The truly multimodal individual is able to switch from learning to creation to leisure with minimal interruptions not because they are always “grinding,” but rather because each of these actions reinforces the other.
Avoid the trap of ceaseless learning, and instead reinforce that learning with action.

I spend a lot of time researching how our nervous system works and what may contribute to the development of Visual Snow and other symptoms. Remember that there is a lot of vital information that I do not know, and may greatly benefit our understanding of this condition. Visual snow is described as an "epileptic" firing in the visual system in the brain. (Tinnitus behaves very similarly but it is occurring in the auditory nerves) NMDA glutamate receptors, which are overexpressed after excitotoxic injury may well be the trigger of an increased spontaneous firing in the nerves. In turn, the brain would decode this increased firing as "visual snow" The idea is that remaining nerve endings have been damaged enough to overexpress NMDA Glutamate receptors, thus increasing their spontaneous firing.There are various factors that contribute to the development of this condition. Everybody first had an initial trigger, and this varies from person to person. Common causes include stress, trauma, recreational and prescription drugs, Lyme, mold, heavy metals, and other toxic exposures. But what they all result in is brain injury and neuronal damage. The severity varies from person to person. The consequences of such injury doesn't just cause break in communication between healthy neurons, but a cascade of events that can lead to further neuronal degeneration and cell death. That is where visual snow comes in. Think of a broken radio or a TV where it isn't able to receive and process incoming signals so the outcome is a lot of visual/auditory noise. Our brains behave in a similar manner when there is an interference with proper neuron function and communication.Another good example is a type of neuropathic pain called paresthesia where you experience tingling and pricking sensations in various parts of your body. When nerves are damaged, they can't communicate properly and that miscommunication causes symptoms such as pain, tingling or numbness.Medical researchers searching for new medications for visual snow often look to the connection between the nerve cells in the brain and the various agents that act as neurotransmitters, such as the central nervous system's primary excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate. Visual snow can be caused when damaged brain cells emit an excess of glutamate. Many treatments use ingredients that work as glutamate antagonists, or inhibitors. Communication between nerve cells in the brain is accomplished through the use of neurotransmitters. There are many compounds that act as neurotransmitters including acetylcholine, serotonin, GABA, glutamate, aspartate, epinephrine, norpinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals attach to nerve cells at specific receptors that allow for only one type of neurotransmitter to attach.Some of the neurotransmitters are excitatory; leading to increased electrical transmission between nerve cells. Others are inhibitory and reduce electrical activity. The most common excitatory neurotransmitters are glutamate and aspartate while the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter is GABA. It is necessary for excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters to be in balance for proper brain function to occur.Communication over synapses between neurons are controlled by glutamate. When brain cells are damaged, excessive glutamate is released. Glutamate is well known to have neurotoxic properties when excessively released or incompletely recycled. This is known as excitotoxicity and leads to neuronal death.Excess glutamate opens the sodium channel in the neuron and causes it to fire. Sodium continues to flow into the neuron causing it to continue firing. This continuous firing of the neuron results in a rapid buildup of free radicals and inflammatory compounds. These compounds attack the mitochondria, the energy producing elements in the core of the neuron cell. The mitochondria become depleted and the neuron withers and dies.Excitotoxicity has been involved in a number of acute and/or degenerative forms of neuropathology such as epilepsy, autism, ALS, Parkinson’s, schizophrenia, migraines, restless leg syndrome, tourettes, pandas, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, Huntington's, seizures, insomnia, hyperactivity, OCD, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders.(Doctors use two basic ways to correct this imbalance. The first is to activate GABA receptors that will inhibit the continuous firing caused by glutamate. The second way to correct the imbalance is use antogonists to glutamate and its receptor N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA). These are termed glutamate or NMDA antagonists. By binding with these receptors, the antagonist medication reduces glutamate-induced continuous firing of the neuron. This explains why some drugs like clonazepam and lamictal are able to help relieve symptoms in some patients. They help reduce excitatory action in the brain temporarily)Anxiety, depression, brain fog, depersonalization, visual disturbances (including visual snow, palinopsia, blue field entoptic phenomenon, photophobia, photopsia) headaches, tinnitus, are all common symptoms associated with increased excitatory activity in the brain. Excessive glutamate is the primary villain in visual snow.I strongly believe there are some genetic components that play a huge role in the development of Visual Snow and makes some individuals more susceptible to developing it. Normally, glutamate concentration is tightly controlled in the brain by various mechanisms at the synapse. There are at least 30 proteins that are membrane-bound receptor or transporter proteins at, or near, the glutamate synapse that control or modulate neuronal excitability. But in Visual Snow sufferers, my hypothesis is that we carry a faulty gene that results in dysregulation of the proteins that control and regulate glutamate excitability. They are unknown as more research will be needed.We live in a society where we are stressed emotionally, financially, physically and exposed to a range of toxins in our environment. Combining underlying genetic susceptibility with these other factors creates all the ingredients for a perfect storm.Stress + Infectious Agents (if any) + Toxins + Genetic Susceptibility = Health ConditionIncluded below is a list of things that can lead to excitotoxicity. The list includes trauma, drugs, environmental, chemicals and miscellaneous causes of brain cell damage. (Keep in mind everybody's bodies behave and react differently to various substances)-Severe Stress (Most people that are stressed out don’t realize that once the fight-or-flight response gets activated it can release things like cortisol and epinephrine into the body. Although these boost alertness, in major concentrations, the elevated levels of cortisol over an extended period of time can damage brain functioning and kill brain cells)-Free Radicals – Free radicals are highly-reactive forms of oxygen that can kill brain cells and cause brain damage. If the free radicals in your brain run rampant, your neurons will be damaged at a quicker rate than they can be repaired. This leads to brain cell death as well as cognitive decline if not corrected. (Common causes are unhealthy diet, lifestyle and toxic exposure)-Head Trauma (like concussion or contusion) MRI can detect damaged brain tissue BUT not damaged neurons. -Dehydration (severe)-Cerebal Hypoxia-Lyme disease-Narcolepsy-Sleep Apnea-Stroke-Drugs (recreational or prescription) -Amphetamine abuse-Methamphetamines-Antipsychotics-Benzodiazepine abuse-Cocaine-Esctasy -LSD-Cannabis-Tobacco-Inhalants-Nitrous Oxide-PCP-Steroids-Air Pollution-Carbon Monoxide-Heavy Metal Exposure (such as lead, copper and mercury)-Mold Exposure-Welding fumes-Formaldehyde-Solvents-Pesticides-Anesthesia-Aspartame-MSG (Monosodium Glutamate is found in most processed foods and is hidden under many various names)-Solvents-Chemotherapy-Radiation-Other toxic exposuresInside the Glutamate StormBy: Vivian Teichberg, and Luba Vikhanski"The amino acid glutamate is the major signaling chemical in nature. All invertebrates (worms, insects, and the like) use glutamate for conveying messages from nerve to muscle. In mammals, glutamate is mainly present in the central nervous system, brain, and spinal cord, where it plays the role of a neuronal messenger, or neurotransmitter. In fact, almost all brain cells use glutamate to exchange messages. Moreover, glutamate can serve as a source of energy for the brain cells when their regular energy supplier, glucose, is lacking. However, when its levels rise too high in the spaces between cells—known as extracellular spaces—glutamate turns its coat to become a toxin that kills neurons.As befits a potentially hazardous substance, glutamate is kept safely sealed within the brain cells. A healthy neuron releases glutamate only when it needs to convey a message, then immediately sucks the messenger back inside. Glutamate concentration inside the cells is 10,000 times greater than outside them. If we follow the dam analogy, that would be equivalent to holding 10,000 cubic feet of glutamate behind the dam and letting only a trickle of one cubic foot flow freely outside. A clever pumping mechanism makes sure this trickle never gets out of hand: When a neuron senses the presence of too much glutamate in the vicinity—the extracellular space—it switches on special pumps on its membrane and siphons the maverick glutamate back in.This protective pumping process works beautifully as long as glutamate levels stay within the normal range. But the levels can rise sharply if a damaged cell spills out its glutamate. In such a case, the pumps on the cellular membranes can no longer cope with the situation, and glutamate reveals its destructive powers. It doesn’t kill the neuron directly. Rather, it overly excites the cell, causing it to open its pores excessively and let in large quantities of substances that are normally allowed to enter only in limited amounts.One of these substances is sodium, which leads to cell swelling because its entry is accompanied by an inrush of water, needed to dilute the surplus sodium. The swelling squeezes the neighboring blood vessels, preventing normal blood flow and interrupting the supply of oxygen and glucose, which ultimately leads to cell death. Cell swelling, however, is reversible; the cells will shrink back once glutamate is removed from brain fluids. More dangerous than sodium is calcium, which is harmless under normal conditions but not when it rushes inside through excessively opened pores. An overload of calcium destroys the neuron’s vital structures and eventually kills it.Regardless of what killed it, the dead cell spills out its glutamate, all the vast quantities of it that were supposed to be held back by the dam. The spill overly excites more cells, and these die in turn, spilling yet more glutamate. The destructive process repeats itself over and over, engulfing brain areas until the protective pumping mechanism finally manages to stop the spread of glutamate."Recent research has confirmed that hypermetabolism has been primarily found in the right lingual gyrus and left cerebellar anterior lobe of the brain in individuals suffering from visual snow. The definition of hypermetabolism is described as "the physiological state of increased rate of metabolic activity and is characterized by an abnormal increase in metabolic rate." Hypermetabolism typically occurs after significant injury to the body. It serves as one of the body's strongest defence against illness and injury. This means that the brain is trying to compensate for the injured areas in the brain by increasing metabolism to meet it's high energy demands. It is trying to function to the best of it's ability under the circumstances. Normally the body can heal itself and regenerate under the right circumstances. But it is extremely difficult for the central nervous system - which includes the spinal cord and brain to be able to do so, due to it's inhibitory environment which prevents new neurons from forming. That is where stem cells come in. Stem cells are an exciting new discovery, because they can become literally any cell in the body including neurons. This is an amazing scientific breakthrough and has the potential to treat a whole host of conditions. Scientists are currently doing research and conducting trials.Excitotoxicity can trigger your "fight or flight" response, as this is the body's primary response to illness, injury or infection. If the brain and the body remain in the sympathetic fight or flight state for too long and too often, it is degenerative; it breaks us down. If this cycle continues, then eventually the system burns out. It is this cycle that results in autonomic nervous system dysfunction. The results are disastrous, digestion is shut down, metabolism, immune function and the detoxification system is impaired, blood pressure and heart rate are increased, circulation is impaired, sleep is disrupted, memory and cognitive function may be impaired, neurotransmitters are drained, our sense of smell, taste and sound are amplified, high levels of norepinephrine are released in the brain and the adrenal glands release a variety of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.I believe in order to find a treatment or cure for VS and it's accompanying symptoms, we need to address the underlying cause, reduce the excess excitatory activity in the brain, repair the damaged neurons, regain proper communication between neurons, rebalance the autonomic nervous system and prevent further cellular damage. We also need to figure out what genes, if any come into play. There is still a lot we don't know about the brain because it is such an remarkably complex organ.FAQsWon't lowering the levels of glutamate solve the problem? Well, not necessarily. That is just one piece of the puzzle. You have to remember that Visual Snow is a multifactorial and complex condition in which it stems from a number of different causes and influences. Based on my knowledge and the information I have gathered, I can conclude that the overstimulation of glutamate plays a huge role in VS and some other symptoms we experience. But there is still so much we don't know. That's why more research will be needed.Why is my condition worsening over time?That is a very good question. It is because the physiology, biology and chemistry of your brain and nervous system has been altered and has become dysfunctional since the initial trigger set off a domino of effects that leads to further degradation in the body. This puts a huge strain on your body and is constantly activating your stress response system. This will wreak havoc on your entire body. The stress response system was designed to deal with brief emergencies that threaten survival. It isn't supposed to last very long because the body cannot sustain itself for very long in this state. When you remain in "fight or flight" sympathetic state for too long, it becomes degenerative and breaks our bodies down. This affects every system in the body. When you are constantly under stress, the stress response system never turns off resulting in an ongoing destructive cycle. Stress can also exacerbate all your symptoms and makes you susceptible to developing other chronic health conditions. How is the gut related to VS?Having increased intestinal permeability is very common in this modern world because we are constantly being bombarded by toxins and stress. Our bodies weren't designed to handle such a huge burden. So we end up getting sick and become susceptible to kinds of diseases. Common causes include:-Poor diet (from excessive consumption of foods such as grains, legumes, sugars, alcohol)-Chronic stress-Toxin overload-Gut dysbiosis (It means you have a lack of beneficial bacteria in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. They are overpowered and outnumbered by pathogens such as pathogenic bacteria, yeast, viruses, parasites)-Overuse of antibiotics When you have increased intestinal permeability, the epithelium on the villi of the small intestine becomes inflamed and irritated, which allows metabolic, microbial and environmental toxins and undigested food particles to flood into the blood stream. This event compromises the liver, the lymphatic system, and the immune response including the endocrine system. It is often the primary cause of the following common conditions: asthma, food allergies, chronic sinusitis, eczema, urticaria, migraine, irritable bowel, fungal disorders, fibromyalgia, and inflammatory joint disorders including rheumatoid arthritis are just a few of the diseases that can originate from having poor gut health.This sets the stage for chronic systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired detoxification, gastrointestinal dysfunction and immune system dysregulation.Some toxins have the ability to damage and destroy neurons, myelin sheaths, synapses and even DNA. An overload of toxins that the immune system is not able to get rid of disrupts normal brain function. This eventually initiates an autoimmune response where the immune system attacks the brain and nerve cells as it tries it’s best to eliminate the toxins.The mitochondria are the energy producing section of your cells. When they are damaged by the toxic overload in the brain cells and are not able to produce energy to fuel the cell, the cell dies.In order to stop this vicious cycle, the underlying biological mechanisms of VS needs to be understood. That is the first step that needs to be taken. Any other stressors also needs to be addressed in order to reduce the overall stress load.It is important to know that VS is just a symptom of underlying physiological stress in the brain. Symptoms are your body's way of communicating with you, letting you know something is wrong in the body.I've come across some research indicating that microglial activation and elevated nitric oxide is involved in some neurological conditions. Basically the microglial cells are our brain's immune cells and when something triggers an inflammatory response, they activate and release harmful neurotoxic compounds (such as nitric oxide and pro-inflammatory cytokines) which results in neuronal injury/death. Microglial activation can also result in a loss of synaptic connections in different regions of the brain. It's basically an autoimmune response in the brain. The neuroinflammatory process appears to be an ongoing and chronic cycle of central nervous system dysfunction. This can deplete glutathione levels in the body. Glutathione is the body’s most important antioxidant which is capable of preventing oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species such as free radicals, peroxides, lipid peroxides, and heavy metals. This only further exaggerates the problem, which only leads to a cascade of increased inflammation.Nitric oxide plays a vital role in this process. Elevated nitric oxide levels reduces and impair natural killer cells which leads to a vulnerable immune system that is susceptible to a variety of systemic infections. -Phobe Zhang

Introduction
Perfume production is a blend of artistry and chemistry that results in captivating scents we cherish. In this guide, we'll delve into the fascinating world of perfume manufacturing, exploring the journey from raw materials to the final bottled fragrance.

• The Science Behind Perfume Making

Understanding the chemical composition of perfumes is essential. It involves blending aromatic compounds, solvents, and fixatives to create unique and long-lasting scents. The intricate chemistry ensures that each perfume has its distinct notes and longevity.

• Aromatic Compounds

Aromatic compounds are the heart of any perfume. They contribute to the fragrance's character, with categories like floral, citrus, woody, and oriental notes. These compounds are derived from natural sources like flowers, fruits, and spices, or synthetically created to mimic natural scents.

• Solvents and Fixatives

Solvents are essential for dissolving aromatic compounds, ensuring they can be evenly dispersed. Fixatives help in stabilizing the fragrance, enhancing its longevity on the skin. Common solvents include ethanol and water, while fixatives like musk and ambergris add depth and staying power to perfumes.

• The Perfume Manufacturing Process

Creating a perfume involves a meticulous process that balances creativity and precision. Let's explore the steps involved in bringing a fragrance to life.
Step 1: Gathering Ingredients
The first step in perfume making is gathering high-quality ingredients. This includes aromatic compounds, solvents, fixatives, and any additional elements like colorants or preservatives.
Step 2: Blending
Blending is where the magic happens. Perfumers carefully combine different aromatic compounds, adjusting ratios to achieve the desired scent profile. This step requires expertise and a keen sense of olfactory artistry.
Step 3: Aging and Maturation
After blending, the perfume mixture is left to age and mature. This allows the various components to harmonize, resulting in a more balanced and refined fragrance.
Step 4: Filtration and Clarification
Once matured, the perfume undergoes filtration to remove any impurities or sediment. Clarification ensures a clear and pristine final product, ready for bottling.

• Quality Control in Perfume Manufacturing

Maintaining quality standards is paramount in perfume production. Rigorous testing and evaluation ensure that each batch meets the brand's standards for scent, longevity, and overall customer satisfaction.
Sensory Evaluation
Trained perfumers conduct sensory evaluations, assessing the fragrance's aroma, projection, and longevity on different skin types.
Chemical Analysis
Advanced analytical techniques are employed to analyze the chemical composition of perfumes, ensuring consistency and quality across batches.
Regulatory Compliance
Perfume manufacturers adhere to strict regulatory guidelines regarding ingredient safety, labeling accuracy, and environmental sustainability.

Perfume FAQs

• Q: What are the primary ingredients in perfumes?

A: Perfumes typically contain aromatic compounds, solvents like ethanol, fixatives for longevity, and sometimes colorants or preservatives.

• Q: How long does it take to create a new perfume?

A: The creation process varies but can take anywhere from several months to years, depending on complexity and desired outcomes.

• Q: Can perfumes be made without synthetic ingredients?

A: Yes, natural perfumes use only ingredients derived from botanical or animal sources, omitting synthetic compounds.

• Q: What is the difference between Eau de Toilette and Eau de Parfum?

A: The main difference lies in concentration; Eau de Parfum has a higher concentration of aromatic compounds compared to Eau de Toilette, resulting in a longer-lasting scent.

• Q: Are perfumes tested on animals?

A: Ethical perfume brands refrain from animal testing, opting for cruelty-free and sustainable testing methods.

• Q: How should I store perfumes to maintain their quality?

A: Perfumes should be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and fluctuations in temperature, preserving their fragrance integrity.

Conclusion
Delving into the art and science of perfume making reveals a captivating world of creativity and precision. From aromatic compounds to quality control measures, each step contributes to crafting exquisite fragrances that captivate our senses.

Potassium nitrate mix is one of the easiest ways, to make the chased influenced by a chemical that can be gaseous, in closed spaces.
Ever had a situation when you knew the chased was in the room, but you did not know where exactly? You know they are hiding in one of the corners, but which? If you search the wrong one, they will escape the room. You could wait outside, but you might not have the privilege to wait. So your best way is to make it harder for them to stay hidden or even just run. Druging them with gas is ideal.
Potassium nitrate is ideal for smoke bombs. An recepie is concluded down below in the post for a normal smoke bomb. Smoke bombs with potassium nitrate can be mixed with some compounds that are NOT from 16 or 1 group ( you will make an explosive possibly). Other than that , you might want to avoid group 2 as well. Other stuff should be safer. Use organic compounds and block d oxides for low hazard poisonous gasses. They should be alright. Examples of such stuff would benzene (aromatic groups are more hazardous for lungs than normal carbon chains) or CuO. Remember that elements with higher atomic number than Pb might stop cell mitosis and be harder to treat, so preferably don't use during practice anything higher than Pb. Such example is U which would be used in form of UO2. Smoke bombs should cover a good area, be visible ( so you can avoid the cloud) and stay in the air for long but short enough periods to clean up the room. later you can look for the chased if they don't go out or run. Don't lick the walls after such a smoke bomb. Remember to wait a minute or two after some clears., if you want to enter contaminated area. Wear safety googles and heat proof gloves when you make the product for safety.
Use responsibly.
So... If you want to be a Scrooge, you can make a fuse out of animal hair, wool or protein fibres. Do not use plant based stuff. It won't burn. You can also use bird guano to get potassium nitrate. But it takes some time, as it needs to be filtered out in hot water until you get crystals.
Recepie
Open your soup can, empty, and clean it out. Do not disregard the top. Mix together 3 parts potassium nitrate, and 2 parts granulated sugar. Bring your frying pan to a low heat and add your mixture from Step 2. Continue mixing with a plastic whisk until the powdered mixture fully liquefies. While waiting for the mixture to liquefy grab your soup can top, drill five circles an 1/8th of an inch in from the edge and one in the center. Pour the mixture into the soup can place the top of the soup can on top of the can. Insert your fuse through the center hole until it reaches the bottom, trim excess according to desired time to ignite. With the lid off allow 6-8 hours to fully harden. After the mixture has hardened put the can top back on threading the fuse through the center, and seal to the can with a 1/16th in bead of silicone.

Flooring is a foundational element that sets the tone for your entire home. When it comes to choosing the perfect material, aesthetics and functionality are undoubtedly top priorities. But in today's eco-conscious world, sustainability is also a key factor to consider. This blog delves into the battle between wood flooring tiles and regular wood, exploring their environmental impact and helping you make an informed decision for your sustainable dream home.
The Allure of Real Wood: Beauty with a Price Tag
There's no denying the timeless elegance and warmth that real wood flooring brings to a space. Solid hardwood floors boast a natural beauty unmatched by man-made materials. The rich textures, unique grain patterns, and earthy tones create a sense of sophistication and can significantly elevate the value of your property.
However, the allure of real wood comes with a hidden cost to the environment. Here's a closer look at the sustainability concerns surrounding regular wood flooring:

• Deforestation: Traditional hardwood flooring relies on the harvesting of trees, a process that contributes to deforestation. While responsible forestry practices exist, illegal logging remains a significant issue, leading to habitat loss and biodiversity decline.
• Transportation: Depending on the source of the wood, transportation can emit substantial carbon emissions, further impacting the environment.
• Chemical Treatments: Some wood finishes contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can pollute indoor air quality.

The Rise of Wood Flooring Tiles: A Sustainable Alternative?
Wood flooring tiles have emerged as a compelling alternative to regular wood, offering a realistic wood aesthetic with several sustainability advantages:

• Reduced Demand for Hardwood: By opting for tiles, you're contributing to a lower demand for real wood, thereby potentially reducing pressure on forests.
• Versatility of Materials: Wood-look tiles can be crafted from various sustainable materials like recycled ceramic, porcelain, or even cork. These options offer a lower environmental impact compared to virgin wood.
• Durability and Longevity: Wood flooring tiles are incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, moisture damage, and fading. This translates to a longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and associated environmental costs.
• Low Maintenance: Unlike real wood that requires regular sanding, refinishing, and special cleaning products, wood flooring tiles are low-maintenance. They often just require simple sweeping and mopping, minimizing the use of harsh chemicals.

Beyond Sustainability: Comparing Functionality
While sustainability is a crucial factor, it's equally important to evaluate the practical aspects of each flooring option. Here's a breakdown of how wood flooring tiles and regular wood fare in different areas:

• Water Resistance: Regular wood is susceptible to water damage, making it a less suitable choice for bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms. Wood flooring tiles, on the other hand, excel in moisture-prone areas due to their inherent water resistance.
• Scratch Resistance: Wood flooring tiles boast impressive scratch resistance, making them ideal for high-traffic areas with pets or children. Regular wood, especially softer varieties, can show scratches more easily.
• Comfort and Warmth: Real wood offers a naturally warm and comfortable feel underfoot. While some wood-look tiles can be cool to the touch, advancements in technology have led to the development of heated tile options that provide a similar level of comfort.
• Installation: Regular wood flooring installation can be a complex and time-consuming process. Wood flooring tiles, particularly those with click-lock mechanisms, offer a user-friendly DIY option for some homeowners.

Making the Sustainable Choice: It's Not Black and White
Ultimately, the best choice between wood flooring tiles and regular wood depends on your specific needs and priorities. Here are some additional factors to consider:

• Your Budget: Regular wood flooring can range significantly in price depending on the species and quality. While some high-end wood-look tiles can be quite expensive, they often offer long-term cost savings due to lower maintenance requirements.
• The Look You Desire: If achieving a truly rustic or antique aesthetic is essential, reclaimed wood could be a sustainable option for regular wood flooring. However, wood flooring tiles can replicate various wood looks with remarkable accuracy.
• Your Lifestyle: If you have pets or live in a high-traffic household, wood flooring tiles offer superior durability and scratch resistance.

The Final Word: Striking a Balance
Both wood flooring tiles and regular wood have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to sustainability. Evaluating your priorities and lifestyle can help you make an informed decision. However, the trend towards using recycled materials and the increasing durability of wood flooring tiles make them a compelling choice for the environmentally conscious homeowner. Remember, a sustainable choice doesn't have to compromise on style or functionality. With careful consideration, you can achieve a beautiful, durable, and eco-friendly floor for your home.
Additional Tips for a Sustainable Flooring Choice
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most sustainable flooring decision for your home:

• Consider Local Wood Sources: If you're set on regular wood flooring, look for options sourced from sustainably managed forests close to your location. This minimizes transportation emissions and supports local businesses.
• Embrace Reclaimed Wood: Reclaimed wood flooring is a fantastic sustainable option. It gives new life to salvaged wood, reducing demand for new trees.
• Look for Certifications: Look for wood flooring products with certifications like Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). These certifications ensure responsible forestry practices.
• Choose Low-VOC Adhesives: When installing regular wood floors or any type of flooring that requires adhesives, opt for low-VOC options to minimize indoor air pollution.
• Invest in Quality Underlayment: A high-quality underlayment can extend the lifespan of any floor, reducing the need for replacements. Choose underlayments made from recycled materials for added sustainability points.
• Maintain Your Floors Properly: Proper maintenance will extend the lifespan of any floor, reducing the need for replacements. This includes regular cleaning, using appropriate cleaning products, and refinishing real wood flooring when necessary.
• Explore Alternative Sustainable Options: Consider other sustainable flooring options like bamboo, cork, or linoleum. These materials offer beautiful aesthetics and a lower environmental impact compared to traditional wood flooring.

Beyond Flooring: A Holistic Approach to Sustainability
Remember, flooring is just one piece of the sustainable home puzzle. Here are some additional ways to create a more eco-friendly living space:

• Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances: Look for appliances with high Energy Star ratings to reduce your overall energy consumption.
• Embrace Natural Light: Maximize natural daylight in your home to minimize reliance on artificial lighting.
• Conserve Water: Install water-efficient fixtures and appliances to reduce water usage.
• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Implement a sustainable waste management plan in your home to minimize your environmental footprint.

By making informed choices and adopting sustainable practices in your home, you can create a beautiful and comfortable living space that minimizes your impact on the planet. Let's all strive to be responsible stewards of the environment, one sustainable floor at a time.