Honestly just not sure how much is a problem or what I can do. I’m an obese 29 y/o female already diagnosed with PCOS (Speculated as young as 12, formally diagnosed at like 16 when I was first put on metformin), and ADHD. I haven’t been to a doctor in years due to finances. But I did have a rheumatologist due to chronic pain, saw them 3 times before I lost my job + insurance. Based on bloodwork already done, I was tipping into prediabetic territory, and have definitely put strain on my liver. I don’t drink or smoke tobacco, I do smoke weed almost daily for pain and mental health.
My bowel movements have ALWAYS been loose. I rarely experience a healthy stool, and even more rarely get constipation. Whenever I have, it’s been due to medications.
I get poop that is clearly greasy and floats in the bowl, which seems to be indicative of fats not absorbing.
I get green, and I mean GREEN poops when I haven’t had anything green or dyed. Like today, green stool, but due to finances I’ve been eating almost nothing but PB&J, Ramen, Eggs, and milk. (I always try to get at least protein into a ‘meal’, but its been a particularly rough month and I haven’t been able to actually buy proper groceries for a couple weeks. Normally I buy loads of frozen vegetables and salad, but even then I’ll frequently get green stool after eating non-green vegetables. When I do eat leafy greens, the stool itself is rarely as vibrant, and I can see particles of leaves, so when it’s green for no reason it does look like food dye.)
I have been trying to connect my symptoms for ages and my bests guess is some kind of digestive disease with malabsorption, but I don’t seem to have enough symptoms for any of them, or at least none my googling can find. It seems like the green is from food passing from the small intestine too quickly, and the oiliness from not absorbing the oils, perhaps. I’ll also get pale, also beige/clay colored stools a couple of times a month. Frequently my stool also has mucus if it’s a particularly bad day, which seems to just indicate inflammation/agitation?
I know I should see a doctor, but I’m not used to being listened to. Everything is ‘lose weight’ which, yeah, obviously. I would just like some idea of what this might be so I can try to adjust my diet or eating habits to see if there’s improvement, or if I should try avoiding something in particular, I don’t know.

Hello! I hope this is the right place to ask. I got a gcc back in November. I have no experience with them especially one that hasn’t been hand raised. Sorry this will be long and I’m more of a Reddit lurker than a poster. And I’m more than willing to change things to help him.
His(?) name is Banjo and he came from the chain pet store I work at (mistake #1). I did a TON of research and prep b4 we got him. I have owned cockatiels in the past and read they were similar in care. He’s fun and silly, very curious. He will be a year old in July if his papers were accurate.
But here’s the problem. In the months that I’ve had him. I haven’t made any progress in socializing him. He’s terrified of me, I’ve given him space, offered him his favorite treats, I always talk softly around him, and I spend most of my time in the same room. Anytime I approach his cage, no matter how slow I go, he runs to the back corner of the cage, sways back and forth nervously and hits and drags his beak on the bars repeatedly.
I tried letting him out of the cage but he panics and starts crashing into things with reckless abandon. Last time he got stuck under a chair with his nails snagged in the carpet and he gave me quite a nasty bite.
He is curious of me and will flock call me when I leave the room and when I get home from work. But I’m at a loss.
Does anyone have any more advice on what to do? It really breaks my heart not being able to bond with him.
He’s in a decent sized cage I want to say it’s 24x24x36 in. (we plan to get him an even bigger one when we save up. He gets new toys weekly (handmade to not break the bank). He gets Brown’s Encore foraging conure diet (I’m more than willing to change his food if this isn’t good) he also gets a wide variety of fruit, vegetables and leafy greens every other day. If this should be daily I’ll start doing that.
He is also in our “reptile room” it stays warm and humid in there, plus the dogs and cats aren’t allowed in the room when no one is there. I always put on a YouTube playlist when I leave the room for longer than a few minutes.
TLDR- I got a gcc back in November and I haven’t been able to bond with him and he is incredibly fearful of being out of the cage. I need advice on socializing him, because I haven’t gotten anywhere with him.

Hey everyone! I back again with some more funny shenanigans with our good pals Lerson and Silversmith. Thank you all for the great feedback for the last chapter, it really made my day. I'm excited to hear what you all think about this next one. Hope you all enjoy!
And again a special thanks to SpacePaladin15 for the NoP universe! __________
[First] [Next] __________
Memory Transcription Subject: Lerson, Undercover Farsul Date [standardized human time]: October 24, 2136
How did I get here? Just yesterday I was running for my life through the forest on this backwater planet and now I am sitting in the back of a vehicle with a predator, who thinks that I am some kind of hunting beast. Well… what do I do now?
The first part of my plan went off without a hitch. The simple minded predators had not realized I was not one of their slave beasts, so they released me from their holding pens. However, I am now trapped in a car right alongside my new predatory master.
Maybe I could try to take it down. It doesn’t seem particularly dexterous at least compared to the other predators I have seen. It is not looking at me now, so I would have the upper hand, but it is nearly twice my size. I will probably have to hold out for a little bit longer before I make my move.
I am suddenly pulled from my thoughts when the predator in the front seat begins to growl, “Car, can you bring me to the pet store, please?”
‘Pet Store,’ what is that? My translator says that it is a place for the sale of animals. Is it going to sell me already? Maybe I am just being sent to my new prison. My heart races as I watch the vehicle begin to slow down and come to a stop in front of the building. The elderly predator gets out of the vehicle and walks around to the door next to me. Oh no! This isn’t part of the plan. I thought I was finally out of that place, but now I am just about to get locked up again. The door opens.
“Okay bud, we’re gonna get you some things,” it said. Huh. I am not getting sold? The predator grabbed the end of the rope around my neck and beckoned me out of the vehicle. I chose to oblige and we slowly made our way towards the nearby building.
It was a small structure that looked like it was in disrepair. It makes sense that the predators would not upkeep their buildings all they care about is killing and eating. I was surprised to find that they even have buildings to begin with.
The old one pushed the door open, which produced a soft jingle as we walked in. First thing I noticed was the intense smell. It was almost overwhelming with how many different scents there were. Looking around the aisles of the shop were very narrow and the shelves were packed with different items. “Um, so the lady at the shelter suggested that I get food, bowls, a bed, and… I don’t really remember what else. That’s probably fine to begin with, we can always come back later.”
We walked down one of the narrow aisles, which had dozens of bags of ‘kibble.’ My translator says it is “ground meal shaped into pellets, especially for pet food.” That does not sound very appetizing. The predator stops and starts looking through the different options. I also start to look around. The bag nearest to me has an ingredients list. Luckily I opted for the built in visual translator. Scanning the ingredients it contains mostly different grains and other fillers, which is surprising from predator food, but it also lists ‘animal byproducts’ which sounds horrifying. I guess whatever the Terrans do not end up eating gets tossed to the lesser predators.
“Let’s get this one. It says it’s for ‘senior’ dogs. Ha! That’s something we’ve go in common”
Really?! Do I look that old to everyone? By the Tenants, maybe I need to dye my fur after I get out of this mess. We continued going around the store picking up items until we got to the counter near the front.
Speaking to the predator behind the counter my ‘master’ says, “Good afternoon Bobby. How’s everything going?”
The young predator behind the counter responds, “Not too great, Mr. Silversmith.”
“Oh. I spose that was a bad question to ask, sorry.”
“It's okay sir, there is just a lot going on. I’m glad that my parents and I are all fine, being out here in the country, but my brother works in the city and we still don’t know if he’s alright.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. I hope for the best.”
“Thank you. Now what can I do for you?”
“Oh I’m just buying some supplies for old Buddy over here,” he gestures down to me.
The clerk looks over the counter towards me, “Uh… Mr. Silversmith…” The old predator cuts him off, “I know he aint the best lookin’, but can’t say much about myself either, so I don’t need to hear it.”
“Sure… Well… let me ring that all up for you then.”
Spekh! That one has to know, right? Perhaps these predators are not as dense as I thought and the one I got is just really stupid. Well at least that helps my plan, but I will still have to be careful around other Terrans.
The old one finishes paying and we head back down to the vehicle and it drives off. After about [~34 minutes] we reach what I think is the elderly predator's den.
It is at the end of a very long dirt roadway, tucked among the trees, that I see the structure. Just like the pet shop it is a small building made out of simple materials like wood and stone. I suppose the predators really are as primitive as I thought.
The vehicle comes to a halt next to the building and the old one steps out. After he opens my door, I step out of the vehicle as well. I follow him to the entrance of the den, which is a simple wooden door painted bright red. And if I remember correctly that is the color of blood on this planet. So savage!
Upon entering, the interior looks very similar to the outside with wood adorning the walls and floors. Though I was surprised how similar the layout was to the living quarters back at the guild. The room at the entrance looked to be some kind of lounging room with a small couch and rug in the center of the room facing a screen mounted on the opposite wall. To the left of the door was what I could only assume was a kitchen with storage cabinets covering the walls.
The elderly predator returned to the car to retrieve the items it purchased at the ‘pet shop,’ which makes this the best time to do some sleuthing. I made my way past the lounge room into the depths of the den. Past the entrance room was a hallway leading further back. It was adorned with photographs filled with predatory snarls. I did my best to ignore them and worked my way further down the hall.
Up ahead there was a door and upon opening it I found a room which, by the smell of it, must be a lavatory. That really reminded me that I had to go to the bathroom. My cell did not even have a waste pit. I made my way quickly into the room and relieved myself with haste. Once I finished I thought about flushing the ‘evidence,’ but that’s when I heard the front door open again, so I was forced to hurry out of the room.
“Hey Bud! Where did you go?” it growled from the other room. I made my way back to the entrance as quickly as I could manage on all fours. “There you are. So do you like the place?” the predator asked. I did not respond and just looked towards it. “Ha ha, great!” it growled. I did not say anything?
“So I got your food and water bowls over here. Let me go fill them up. You’ve gotta be hungry.”
It walked over to the kitchen with the bowls in hand and filled one with water from the sink. The other bowl, the predator filled with the ‘kibble’ from earlier. Then it placed them both on the floor. It looks like the food situation might not be any better than my previous arrangement at the holding pen.
“Well, I spose I should eat dinner as well.”
It opened the large metal cabinet and began looking through it. I snuck a little closer to get a better look. When I approached I could feel the chill coming off of it, so I could assume that it was some kind of refrigerators unit. Must not be that primitive I suppose. After a bit of scrounging around the refrigerator, the elderly one pulled out a clear plastic container. It was green on the inside. Is it really going to eat rotten flesh!? I guess that is expected of a predator.
As it opened the container I braced my nose for the putrid smell of rotten flesh, but it never came. I watched as the predator poured out leafy greens into a bowl. Huh, a predator is eating plants?
Wait, I do remember that during the Terran’s deceptive talk at Aafa, they had said they were [all-eaters]. I guess that must be true. Watching it eat the greens is making me even hungrier than I was before.
I watched as the elderly predator finished its salad. It brought the bowl and utensils to the sink to begin washing them. I waited in the corner of the kitchen for him to finish and leave. My stomach was killing me and I could only think of the amazing taste of a crisp salad. Finally the predator finished his task and turned away from the sink. It looked towards me and then at the bowls on the floor. “Aren’t you hungry boy? You haven’t touched your food at all… I hope you’re alright. Maybe I need to take you to the vet tomorrow?”
Vet? My translator says that that means ‘animal doctor.’ Even though the average human is pretty oblivious, a doctor will be sure to realize that I’m not really a ‘dog.’ I can not let this Terran take me there. I know what I have to do, but I do not like it. I steel myself as I walk over to the bowl and stare down at its contents. Am I really going to do this? You have to! So, I lower my head and bite down on a mouthful of ‘kibble.’
It… is not that bad? I honestly expected worse.
I suppress the thoughts of the ‘animal byproducts’ in it and swallow. Immediately I wash out my mouth with the water in the second bowl. Then I turn to look at the human who is now snarling at me. I freeze. Did I do something wrong? Did it figure me out?!
“There you go. Ha ha. I was worried for a second there.”
What? Is it happy that I ate? Then why is it snarling at me? Maybe maybe that means that it is happy? These predators are so weird. At least it seems like I have avoided detection once again. Nailed it!
The old predator, having been satisfied, let out a yawn revealing all its sharp teeth… well… most of them were surprisingly quite dull. “Okay bud it's getting late, so I think it's time for me to turn in, but let me get you your bed first,” it said. Reaching into the biggest bag from the pet shop the elderly predator pulled out a round fluffy bowl. It looks similar to beds I saw when working on the Iftali and Sulean homeworld, though this one is a lot smaller. It placed the bed down in the living room next to the couch.
It paused, “Oh wait. I should probably take you outside before turning in for the night. Don’t want a mess in the morning, come on.”
I follow the predator as instructed, wondering what it wants me to do now. It leads me out a side door into a grassy area. “Okay… do your business,” it said.
What? Does it want me to do something? I just look around seeing if there's anything to give me any clues.
“I guess that didn’t work. Go potty.”
What?! Is it commanding me to defecate?! Outside! I guess he does think I am an animal. But there is no way I am doing that especially with it watching me. Why is it watching? Is it some kind of pervert? Grr, Screw the plan!
“Okay… uh… I guess come back in when you’re done,” it says as it turns to walk back to the house.
Thank the Tenants! I wait [a few minutes] and then slip back into the predator’s den. On my return it spots me, “Oh good you’re back!”
It walked over to the side door and locked it. Then the predator shuffled to wall switches and turned off most of the lights. Thankfully it left a singular lamp turned on. It is already bad enough that I am stuck in a predator's den, but being in the dark with a predator would be too much even for me.
“Okay goodnight bud, see you in the morning,” said the old one. Then right as it entered the hall it stopped and looked down at a nearby table, “Good night Ella. Good night Ben. Good night Martha.” Then it walked out of sight.
Who was he talking to? Are there other predators here? I don’t smell anyone else and I think I would have heard them earlier. Spekh! Did I get a crazy one?
Okay craziness aside, I need to eat some real food. I finally stood upright. Ah my back! It was already getting bad enough when I was back home. Hopefully I can get used to this because walking on all fours is killing me right now.
I walk over to the refrigeration unit and slowly open the doors trying to stay quiet. Looking around the inside I am surprised to find so many vegetables. However, I did spot a slab of flesh towards the back, which I did my best to ignore.
Now, I can not just eat anything, it might notice if food is missing. Scrounging around for a [minute] my eyes eventually find a plant in one of the lower drawers. It looks like a big bundle of large leaves. I take it out and pry off one of the ones on the outside. It comes off relatively easily with a crunch. Hopefully this is edible. I bring the leaf to my mouth and bite down. It makes a very satisfying crunch as a do. There really is no distinct taste, but I am so hungry that I don’t even care if it is bland.
I scarfed down the rest of the leaf quickly and then grabbed another and then another. Before I knew it, the bundle was only a third of the original size. So much for being sneaky. Finally satisfied, I returned what remained of the bundle to its proper place and closed the refrigerator doors.
After finishing my raid on the refrigerators, I thought about what the old predator had said earlier. I walked over to the table near the entrance to the hallway. There must be something interesting here. However, there was nothing but a handful of photographs. Looking at them in the dim light I was able to make out the wide snarls that adorned the faces in the photo. I guess It makes more sense now since the snarl is a ‘happy’ expression. It is still very strange to me.
The photo closest to the front had the old predator standing next to a much younger predator, which appeared to be wearing Terran military pelts. Strangely, the young one has very bright orange hair on the top of its head.
Next to that one there was a similar photo, but the old predator looked slightly younger. The other Terran in the photo looked similar to the first. They did share the same bright orange hair, but the enlarged mammaries indicated that this one was a female.
I then spotted another picture including the same female, but this time she was next to a different predator and she was holding a Terran pup, which had the same orange hair. Perhaps the female was the mother of the other one. Most of the other photos appeared to be different combinations of the same four predators: the old one, his offspring, his offspring’s mate, and then their pup.
I moved over to the other side to see if I could find anything more useful. There was a photo that stood out to me. It pictured the old one, but he looked significantly younger even more than the other photos. Standing next to him was a female, which had the same orange hair as the others. Who was this? I had not seen it in any of the other pictures.
I searched around to see if I could find any more with this female in it. Towards the back I saw two pictures next to each other. The one on the left had the female again with the old predator. Laying in a bed she was cradling a newborn pup in her arms. However, the photo on the right was the old one with the pup in its arms. The pup appeared to be a year or two older in this one, but where was the mother? Looking at the older predator I saw the look in his eyes. I know that look. Cerci…
No! They are predators! They are not like us! You know they can not think like us! It's not the same!
Grr, you are tired… just… just go rest. I walk over to the bed. I curl up and try to let sleep take me. __________
[First] [Next] __________
So much for being comedic and lighthearted. I promise that the rest of it won't be so depressing, but I wanted to add a little more substance to some of the characters. Thanks again for reading! Feel free to leave any feedback or suggestions, I really appreciate it.

[First] [Previous] [Next]
Edited by sensei WaveOfWire
- - - - -
Everything had gone exceptionally well for the farmer, despite the daunting task forced into her talons. Kegara had ordered her to begin a march east in search of the expected banished by sunrise—not alone, but in a group of fourteen others. She thought it was too many for such a task, and would assuredly catch the ire of the abhorrent; the more Malkrin present, the more creatures would pursue them…
It was a risk. One she was willing to take if her beloved was safe, but he pleaded for her to find a way to avoid it. Unfortunately, were she to stay, it would land her in the worst of Kegara's rage. The orange-skinned female would have been made a gruesome example for those who disobeyed, tied up in the center of the camp and… She did not wish to think of what ghastly fate would have awaited her.
So, in the dark of night, her and the baker’s plan of escape was struck. Perhaps it was foolish to leave their safety behind, but considering the blood-moon and forced orders, was it truly ‘safe?’ They would gather their pitiful belongings and set off in the direction of the previously ostracized members—the water worshiper, and four others. There was little hope of finding them, less so after the blood-moon, but with so few of them, there was still a chance they evaded the beasts and the warped oddities of the mainland altogether. Maybe if the field hand and her mate could find them, they could start their own settlement. At least, those were her thoughts when she set out…
Her initial reaction to being thrust into the open wilderness was nothing short of horror. Indistinct animalistic screeches, otherworldly hums, and unsettling creaks from trees sent chills down her spine throughout the night. Hazy shadows underneath the dim moonlight crawled like creatures, stalking… prowling around the mated pair. Every step she made was made in pure uncertainty, every pace bringing her further into an abyss of unseen nightmares. Maybe Kegara would not have punished her so severely… Maybe it would have been best to stay where it was safe.
But, she continued. She stayed strong. She had to.
They had already ventured too far, and it was her job to protect her love. Her tail wrapped possessively around his waist as he stuck close to her. Morning would break soon, and they would be far away from the brutish paladin… Free to start anew. It would be difficult, but the two of them were far from incapable of fending for themselves; they learned enough in the way of survival from their time on the mainland and their respective professions, despite both being from the Golden City.
- - - - -
They were able to survive the night, persevering well into the day by making crude implements and harvesting what they could. They had even managed to discover a large cave perfect for their habitation! It was dry and large enough for a fire, though it went deeper than expected. Food and cooking arrangements were their prerogatives, so they elected not to scour it any further as it would only be a waste of their time. They worked tirelessly until the sun set beyond the red expanse of trees. Her love busied himself with making the smooth gray walls into a home by gathering small resources and forming makeshift beddings, while she had gone out to hunt. By the luck of the Mountain God, she managed to bring back not one but two feathered creatures, each of which were more than plump enough to feed the mated pair for the evening.
Her aching feet patted against the grass, the blades poking her worn soles. The vegetation swayed from side to side in the weak breeze, almost appearing to celebrate her small victory with her. The cavern entrance came into view, its shape too small for her frills to fit under. The edges were covered in pinkish moss, giving it a distinct feel compared to the rest of the biome. Perhaps it was a sign of the Mountain God’s will for them to inhabit it. The moist malleable moss stretched further inside, resembling small veins inside the larger chasm.
She ducked underneath the mouth of the cave, appreciating the yellow reflections of an ongoing fire from within, each flick casting long shadows over every rock edge. Yet once she entered the homely cavity, the flames were the only thing present… Her eyes scanned the room for Baker, only finding an unused leafy bed, piles of edible berries, and a stack of wood. A shock of anxiety bolted up her spine, sharply settling on her frills like cold ice. Where was her mate?
She stepped forward, her webbed toes pressing into… liquid. Her eyes shot toward the ground, the orange-skinned female only now realizing how slick the floor really was. Viscous moisture clung to her leg, stretching across like mucus. The room was… dry before. Her initial thought that it was blood, but that was easily proven false by the thin film’s clear color. That did not ease her worries, however; her betrothed was still out of sight. Perhaps he left to forage, or was possibly looking for her?
A deadened wet thwack from further inside the cave echoed throughout the room, drawing her attention and causing her ears to perk up. Baker…?
She squinted down the black corridor, its sturdy stone now only reflecting the low howl of the cavern’s natural wind. Her eyes stayed locked on it as she slowly grabbed a makeshift torch and set it alight with the campfire. It had to have been her mate down there. Perhaps the tunnel curved so that she was unable to see his torchlight? What was he doing in the dark? Was he searching for something? Food perhaps?
She was already heading toward him before she considered any other possibility. Short drips accompanied her footfalls into the talon-width thick liquid that proliferated along the ground, grabbing onto her every time she raised her foot with a disgusting sucking noise. Her skin soon felt a similar spreading moisture from the humid cave, a low heat building up as she went. It would have been welcoming if not for the sick feeling that settled in her stomach.
The flickers of her torch illuminated the smooth cave walls and the ever-present pink moss that accompanied them. The ‘flora’ grew in volume and presence, stretching everywhere in random lines, often crossing and connecting with one another into larger segments. It eventually lost its fuzzy texture, only a moist reflective red taking its place. The way it almost appeared to… pulse in sync with the surrounding ambience only furthered the notion of veins and arteries…
A creeping sense of wrongness etched itself in her mind. Her ears slowly drooped down and her back hunched as her wide eyes failed to make out anything a pace or two in front of her. She scoured the blackness for anything and everything as the stone path ebbed and flowed, bringing her further down into the heart of Ershah.
thwack
A startling yet familiar noise halted her advance. She stepped back, swiveling her head around wildly to locate its source. Nothing made its presence known. There was only a permeating darkness within the… tunnel… She froze. When did the corridor become so large? Just before, she was able to stretch her arms to reach both sides of the walls, but now… Now it was open like the ocean, the blackness surrounding her entirely, obscuring… everything. She couldn’t see the entrance, nor the ceiling. Her pitiful torch illuminated the ground below her and nothing more.
Plip... Plip… Plip. The dripping continued, now suddenly an overbearing presence… like that of a predator’s breath riding down one’s neck.
Her breathing quickened, eyes widening. Was her mind playing tricks on her? Hesitant paces backward drew her into what she presumed was the direction she came from. It was no use. Further and further she went into the abyss, finding nothing but more of the tenebrous expanse.
The only true sense afforded to her was hearing… Every stifled breath, every wet footstep, and every flick of her torch felt deafening and… revealing. She was but a spark in the wider cavern, waving herself down as prey in the unseen eyes of what awaited her. Something could have been right behind her, and she would have been none the wiser… especially with no wall to guard her back…
A shiver ebbed through her frills. Would it be wise to suffocate her only flame to cover her presence? She stopped her palm from doing so, realizing that the fire was her only light. If its illumination perished, she would be trapped in the abyss with no way out… She needed to leave. She had to find the tunnel. It was—
“Fa…r...mer?” a voice croaked out, its intent shaky and bogged down in black tar.
Her shoulders stiffened, back straightening as she turned toward its direction. It was… Baker’s… but it felt uncanny… foreign. Was that even his? It had to be. M-Maybe he was harmed, too injured to move? Perhaps it was a broken frill? It would make sense. She had to find her mate… no matter how much his pained voice terrified her. That was why she was here in the first place…
The thickness of the viscous ground liquid increased as nervous footsteps brought her closer, the air around her getting warmer with each pace. She called out hesitantly, praying for a positive response.
“B-Baker? Are you there?”
Another wet, fleshy sound echoed through the large cavern, followed by a sickening crack. Then, his voice returned. It was much clearer this time, despite the aura of unsettling… distortion to it.
“Come… closer.”
Her steps were tentative, but she continued forward. Everything around her screamed something was amiss, but that painful string in her heart told her to never let her lover go. He was in pain. He was clearly suffering. Why should she ignore the one who warmed her heart with a simple smile just because she was perturbed by unproven nervousness?
Labored breaths filled her ears as she descended a small incline toward her mate. The shin-high murky liquid at the bottom was ignored, only becoming a small nuisance as her long strides carried her across the unknown fluid. Her motions caused it to sway in all directions, the ripples and turbidity preventing her from seeing what caused the squishy feeling beneath her feet. It smelled putrid, though not like that of rot… The scent was something she could not place, yet it was consuming with how it pierced her nostrils with its presence. It hardly mattered. She was close to him, she could feel his very presence in front of her. She could almost hear the breathing of…
Her torch lit up a rock… no… a figure. It was upright, but its head was pointing downwards. She couldn’t see the legs well, but she did notice how its… his familiar gray arms hung limply.
Baker!
Joy and anxiousness ran thick within her intent. “My dear! Are you okay? W-What has happened to you?”
She received no response for an unsettlingly long moment before his head shook… loosely… Like that of a puppet, reminding her of the black abyss that surrounded everywhere his body was not… It hid something.
“Come… Closer.”
“…W-What? No… M-My Dear… I…” In a moment of fear she raised her torch closer, illuminating everything.
Flesh surrounded him wholly, replacing his legs with undulating tubes and wet meat. Tendrils attached to his back, pulsing from their ceiling-bound origins. His limp arms moved slowly… falling… melting. The very skin slopped off onto into the pile of red beneath him with a sick thwack.
She jumped backwards, but the viscous liquid beneath her held tight. She couldn’t move. Her torch flickered and flared as she fumbled with her footing.
Lumps and nodules swelled from that thing’s chest, the very organs within rearranging. Deafening cracks and vile squelching echoed. The skin down his center slowly tore itself apart, strings of sinew breaking like twine to reveal malformed limbs within.
She ripped her legs from the grappling pond beneath, doing everything in her power to turn away.
But it was no use.
Bolts of force perforated her body. Agony seared every surface of her body.
The chest had burst open, sending several tendrils right through her. They squirmed and extended into her, moving like worms. They ripped and melded to her own flesh. Roaring pain flowed through her being like fire and lightning, consuming her wholly.
She screamed, but nothing escaped her lungs. Blood and tissue filled them. She needed to rip at the invading terror, but could not move. The red abomination pulled them for her; a sickening puppet of muscle.
Everything faded. No pain. No breathing. No sight.
The last thing she saw were the sockets in which her beloved’s gorgeous yellow eyes once laid, now replaced with pulsing meat.
She missed them… dearly.
\= = = = =
Several days of ridicule and a merciless sea voyage were sure to have an adverse effect on one’s mental state—being cast out of one’s own religion even more so. Some would perhaps cope with such by lashing out against those higher up the mountain than themselves. Others might resign themselves to prayer and labor, hoping to fit back into place within God’s graces. However, an exceptional case may change the way one perceives their circumstance.
The script-keeper and her village-mates were hardy people, having survived the worst of the Gods’ trials and then some—rogue waves from the water worshippers, grand storms from the Sky Goddess, and great famines brought from those who sinned before the Mountain God. They persevered through their community, pooling what little they had and relying upon one another to get through. She had seen it for fifty winters.
Now, eight of them have been stripped of those they became interdependent on, thrown forth into an uncertain abyss with only the clothes on their backs. Yet, by the luck of the Gods, the very shore they came upon happened to be owned by that of a diety-sent. Perhaps it was a sign from the Gods that there was hope for them yet…
And it took all of a singular night to prove that assumption correct. The four Malkrin that followed the star-sent freely regaled their struggles with the vile wilderness and the cruelty of the only other settlement before they met with the Creator. Their opinions on Kegara’s settlement were duly noted, but not taken to heart as they were just that: opinions. The script-keeper would have to see it for herself; feeble belief in the words of few should not sway the mind of someone, especially with her profession. Still, the stories of the abhorrent were taken much more seriously, since despite the confidence shared by the few females about defeating them, the elderly Malkrin could certainly see their ears droop in disquietude when the topic was broached. Furthermore, the other more elusive star-sent refused entirely to elaborate on her experience with the beasts when the paladin wrapped her into the conversation.
Fine new clothes, filling meals, and protective castles could only do so much… In the splendor and awe, the script-keeper understood it could only cover up the aching wounds each of the villagers had come here with. She knew the lumberjack quite well, commonly having to assist her with purchasing and selling items across the sea… the very same sea that now separated the woman from her mate. God knows how the wood-cutter felt now.
All the elder knew from the sparse conversations she had with the orange-skinned female was that she wished not to think of it anymore. To which, the harvester did just that, delving into the work allotted to her without a second thought, and basking in the benefits of the star-sent. Much was the same for the others from their island—their hopes of returning to the Land Kingdom having already been thoroughly sundered by the inquisitors. The script-keeper was not privy to everyone’s pains, but she knew they were similarly prepared to shelve them away in service of building themselves anew with this peculiar situation.
\= = = = =
Female Malkrin eat a lot. Seriously, all the meal boxes Harrison and Akula had prepared were ran through like crab rangoons at a buffet. There were a few left, but certainly not enough for dinner that night—and especially not for the winter, much to his displeasure. The engineer wasn’t looking forward to cooking anymore than he already had… But, he had a trick up his sleeve. Not only did the green fisherwoman know how to use the kitchen, but their little camp just so happened to have another who was experienced in the culinary arts.
Around the time they put their tools down for lunch, Harrison was approached by the pink-colored chef who was assisting with some of the masonry prior. He was apprehensive, yet his eyes were practically sparkling when he asked about the barbecue sauce, spices, and common vegetables. The engineer had a bit of time before he needed to get back to work, so he gave in. They conversed about it over their meal, the human explaining the ingredients and methods of making several types of dishes while the several Malkrin in attendance listened intently.
That was around the time he got the idea: why not have Akula teach the cook how to use the barrack’s kitchen? She was pretty reluctant to return to cooking… until he reintroduced her to her new sous-chef, giving her the task of overseeing the male’s modern culinary equipment and meat smoking tutorial.
Harrison didn’t know exactly why she seemed happier then. It could have been something about her prejudices, just having someone else to help her, or something… else… That didn’t matter to him. As long as the job was done, he was happy—especially since it meant he could focus on other projects.
Take the entire home they were building for example; it was practically completed by the time the chefs were sent off to make dinner. They were working on it since dawn—the engineer was still incapable of sleeping—digging the foundation behind the barracks, layering the brick walls, and getting the wooden supports down in record time. Having several extra Malkrin around made the labor requirement almost trivial, even if he needed to ensure they were doing the job right by constantly keeping a close eye on them. It also helped how eager some of them were to settle in with their tasks—the fisher twins and the lumberjack specifically.
The new arrivals were definitely a lot more lively than last night, that was for sure. They held onto caution in the morning, but that broke rather quickly after they got more accustomed to Harrison’s group and received basic clothing—literally just sturdy plaid shirts and black pants. Cera’s—the ceramist’s newly accepted name, created by Tracy’s shorthand of her profession—tendency to look out for the group also had a hand in the change from guarded acceptance to genuine and vocal appreciation. She did as much as she could to ease their burden by offering water or a helping hand whenever she and the lumberjack weren’t busy bringing wheelbarrows full of clay to the workshop. The two new males gladly accepted both, but the females were quite set on keeping their honor, completing their share of the work ‘with their own talons.’
Then, there was the juvenile. He didn’t want to force a kid to work, but the decision apparently wasn’t his. She quietly joined her older village-mates in hauling wheelbarrows full of bricks to and from the workshop. She didn’t seem upset nor did she seem too enthused about it. His singular attempt to persuade her otherwise was only returned with a terse shake of her head before she continued working. She didn’t like to show much emotion, that was for sure. Were all Malkrin teens like that, or was it because of her situation? Christ… the fact that she was sent to the mainland without her parents—or at all—rubbed him the wrong way. It was fucked, but at least she would be safe here… or as ‘safe’ as was possible.
That was the other job of the day: defense via the new fabricator. Tracy helped out a good bit with organizing and designing the second barracks for the first half of the day, thoroughly combing through the engineer’s ideas and ripping out the ‘brutalist’ and ‘soul-crushing’ lack of ‘real’ architecture. She inserted her own ideas, further backed up by the input of Craftsman’s prior experience, making for an admittedly more pleasant-looking layout of the house’s exterior and interior. It would end up looking vaguely like a white-brick colonial house, but with less ‘posh noble,’ instead making use of Germanic-style exterior wooden supports. It was just big enough to fit eight Malkrin-sized cots, space for movement between them, and all the basics such as lighting, airflow, and a little bit of storage on top—because, what was a building without storage? Luckily for the tradeswoman, it hardly used any more resources than his original plans, so he allowed it.
After that, Tracy realized there wasn’t much else for her to do, so she returned to their other project. The technician did well in assembling the most basic parts, working well throughout the day to complete the forging and welding components. Again, having someone else to do help with a job that big was a massive blessing, cutting off hours of time he would have had to slave away in the workshop.
Hours of time that he was able to use for overseeing the now-completed barracks, simultaneously teaching the Malkrin and getting a feel for how to best utilize their strengths with a substantial amount of help from the craftsman. The male did a bang-up job at explaining tasks and concepts to the others. Much better than Harrison was able to. Once more, it was a job the engineer was more than happy to let someone else take off his hands. The olive-colored Male was perfect for the job anyway, having the technical know-how and experience explaining similar things to Malkrin back on the islands, so the pioneer trusted the task to be completed with little issue.
Now, the day was finally reaching a close, ending with the settlement eating their dinner by the fire. There were a few more benches made to give everyone a seat. That meant the radius had to be extended somewhat, but that wasn’t anything a bigger fire couldn’t fix. Plus, the alien’s intent meant that he could still hear clearly from anyone around the pyre.
The muted sounds of silverware clanking against meal boxes and plates were muddled by the constant breeze. The flames lazily flickered in all directions, casting shadows along the flowing grass, each person in attendance being doused in a mellow orange. The Malkrin conversed with one another over their meals, each sitting in pairs on the furniture. Shar was out on guard patrol, so Tracy ended up taking the seat beside him. It was a bit of a surprise given how much she preferred to stay in the workshop, but he didn’t mind her taking a break—she deserved it. If anything, it should have been him on the fabrication floor, picking up where she left off.
“…Hey…” Tracy’s soft, worried voice took him from his thoughts.
“Hm?” He lazily looked down at the shorter woman beside him, her legs swinging as they couldn’t quite reach the ground.
She worriedly raised her brows. “You alright, dude? You’ve had some major bruised eye action going on all day. Did you even get any sleep? I didn’t even see you when I woke up.”
“No, I actually didn’t—” He held up a palm, stopping the technician’s troubled response. “—but it’s more because of that potion… thingy… Cera gave me. I don’t feel tired at all.”
Her face contorted in confusion, the shadows cast by the fire’s glow emphasizing it further. “The… potion…? Oh, yeaaaah, right. It was supposed to help you with dizziness, I think, but it also prevents you from feeling tired. How does it even feel? Like taking an energy drink, or something else?”
He held out his arm, tracing a finger along it. “I just feel like I’ve got pins and needles all along my skin… and I don’t feel like sleeping. That’s it really, so sort of like taking a bunch of caffeine.”
Her brows dropped in faux-annoyance. “That can not be healthy for you. Have you checked up on yourself with the scanner? If not for that, then at least the radiation? Maybe the fuzzy stuff is from all those grays of radiation you received?”
“I did… I did, don’t worry. The scanner had nothing besides the usual, so I guess it was just a good bit of caffeine or something… I don’t know. It’ll probably wear off soon, though.”
She nodded, returning her gaze to the fire. Her voice mellowed, just barely loud enough to reach his ears. “Good. The aliens were worried sick about you, yesterday, ya know—Shar ‘specially… and so was I…”
He hardly heard that last part, barely able to piece it together seconds after she muttered it. He wasn’t trying to make them worried, it was just a part of being on this planet. Every day was a new close call. The first blood moon, that pink monster, the workshop ambush, the second blood moon, and now the anomaly field all terrified him, haunting his very dreams with brief flashbacks of those sights and sounds. Though, they all served to teach him, forcing him to stay on his toes and never stay complacent… Which was something he was doing now.
He had plans in the works already—the new fabricator being the crux of at least half of them—but what could he do currently? How could he prepare? Or, at the very least, what could he do to advance the group further?
Their day-to-day jobs had already been discussed, plans for a new wood storage building were already made, and his work on the printer was cut out for him tonight… Okay. Well, what could he prepare for in the future? Defense? Of course, now that people were going to be out doing their own jobs, they would be too spread out to protect everyone at once.
There were two components to any solution for that problem: reconnaissance and protection. The first was self-explanatory. If he had, say, a few dozen drones scouting around where people were, it would take a lot of the surprise out of random swarms. That would give people time to either return to the castles… modules… or prepare themselves to take the bugs on. That led him to the second part. Firearms help to kill spider-crabs, but are also pretty dangerous in the wrong hands… He was more than willing to trust the Malkrin he knew with guns to defend themselves, but he couldn’t just start handing them out to strangers. Maybe in time, though. There were always other means of protection, anyway; Kegara’s camp was apparently alive and well, despite practically being from the stone ages.
Cera, Akula, and Shar were most certainly getting some firepower, that was for sure. He’d have to think about what sort of weapons would suit them. That also brought up the current metal deficit… and his gunpowder was running out quite quickly…
That was definitely something he wanted to get on before the next blood moon. He wanted to revisit that metal cave he saw when the paladin and the fisherwoman got cornered by three colossi. He hadn’t analyzed the chunk of ore he hacked off yet—he’d been pretty damn busy—so it was about time he figured out whether or not he had a nearby source of metals. It would be a damn blessing if it was aluminum or iron, despite only being a surface deposit. No matter what it was, it was sure to be of use.
Then there was the gunpowder issue. The last time he checked, there was enough to last him for at least the next blood-moon, but it wasn’t enough for several other firearms, especially if he wanted anything automatic. There were three main ingredients—potassium nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal—which were essential for the production of any explosives. Charcoal was already solved for them, and potassium nitrate could practically be made out of thin air and water, considering they were right by an ocean. Bless the Ostwald process and acid-base neutralization.
The only real issue was sulfur… Christ, natural elements sucked. Either he had to deal with excessive organic recycling of amino acids… or go and mine the stuff directly, and there weren’t any obvious volcanic deposits or fault lines around. Neither of those methods sounded great.
Again, that would have to come later. He needed that fabricator done first and foremost. Then he could deal with the assorted problems that followed it and, well, every other compiling issue. Material harvesting tools, automatic defenses, larger fortifications, and radio-protectant armor were but a few of the big-ticket items on his mind.
Cera’s concoction was still running through his veins anyway, so he might as well finish the printer while he was at it. It looked like he wasn’t sleeping tonight either.
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Next time on Total Drama Anomaly Island - Hard work. Good company.

There are so many delicious foods to eat on Thanksgiving, and it can be hard to narrow it down to just one or two favorites!
If you’re a Thanksgiving newbie, check out this list of Thanksgiving foods that start with L and introduce your taste buds to all of the scrumptiousness that awaits you!
Whether you plan on eating them in a traditional Thanksgiving dinner or as part of your own personal feast, try these tasty treats on your holiday table!
If you’re wondering what to serve at your Thanksgiving feast this year, consider the following list of Thanksgiving foods that start with L.
Listed below, these healthy dishes are delicious and nutritious ways to give thanks this holiday season.

1. Lobster

The holiday season means that it is time to celebrate, relax, and enjoy the company of family and friends. What better way to celebrate than with a scrumptious feast?
If you are searching for a mouth-watering dish to serve for your feast this year, look no further than lobster!
Lobster is a traditional dish served on holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas. However, its popularity has also made it an appetizer that can be served any day of the year.
Lobsters are available fresh or canned at most grocery stores or seafood markets. There are so many different ways to prepare lobster that it is hard not to find one that would suit your needs perfectly!

2. Linguine

Linguine is a type of pasta that is shaped like long, flat noodles. It can be served with various sauces or toppings, and it's a popular dish for the holiday season.
Served with butter, garlic, and olive oil, this dish is similar to clam sauce but has a more subtle flavor. Linguine can be served on its own as an appetizer or as part of a larger meal.
Cook linguine according to package directions. Drain and set aside in a serving bowl, reserving a cup of the cooking water in a small bowl.
Melt butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until foaming subsides; add garlic and cook, occasionally stirring, until fragrant but not browned (about 30 seconds), about 2 minutes.

3. Lima beans

Some people may not know that lima beans are traditional Thanksgiving foods that start with L. It's true! Lima beans (aka butter beans) are easy to make and taste delicious, especially when paired with ham. They're also high in protein, making a great side dish for vegetarians.

4. Lionfish

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and if you're looking for some new, exciting Thanksgiving foods that start with L to put on the table.
There are lots of options. One example would be lionfish. This delicious fish can be prepared in various ways and makes for a tasty alternative to turkey or ham.
It's easy to find at most grocery stores, so all you need to do is pick up your ingredients, get cooking and enjoy!

5. Lychees

Let's talk about lychees. This delicious fruit is often a staple in Asian dishes, but it has also become more popular in Western cooking.
It looks like a little yellow grape with a tough outer shell that needs to be peeled away before you can eat the flesh inside. A great way to start your day!

6. Lamb

A rich and savory dish that pairs well with all of your favorite fall vegetables. Lamb is one of the most popular thanksgiving foods that start with L, but it's common to serve lamb.
Lamb is healthier than ham because it contains less fat and cholesterol than other meats. Plus, it also tastes delicious with cranberries and mashed potatoes!

7. Lasagna

This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be made in advance to save you time on the day of the feast for Thanksgiving foods that start with L.

8. Latkes

Crispy and delicious, these potato pancakes are a delightful side dish to any meal. The latke is a dish that is traditionally served during Hanukkah but can be served at any time of year.
Latkes are typically made from grated potatoes mixed with eggs, salt and onions. The mixture is then pan-fried in oil. A typical garnish for a latke might include sour cream or applesauce.

9. Lemonade

It's not a holiday without the traditional pumpkin pie, but some other Thanksgiving foods start with L to consider.
Which is Lemonade, Refreshing and comforting. However, Lemonade is a staple for many people during the warmer months.
Nevertheless, it's also an excellent drink to enjoy on cold winter days. Whether you enjoy lemonade with a little bit of vodka in it or prefer iced tea with a generous helping of freshly squeezed juice, this beverage can be enjoyed all year long.
Besides being delicious, lemonade offers some health benefits, such as aiding digestion and providing Vitamin C.
This tangy beverage should be at the top of your list when you're looking for something new to try this Thanksgiving holiday!

10. Loin

The loin is a meat cut that comes from a pig's back and lower part. It's usually roasted, grilled, or smoked. In French, it's called filet, which means a thin strip.
The loin lies between the backbone and ribs, as well as in front of the sirloin and behind the tenderloin. Another term for a loin is pork chop.
Pork chops are often eaten fried or grilled with bacon. They can be served with applesauce or caramelized applesauce.
When buying pork chops, it's important to look at them closely to ensure they're not too dried out or stringy.

11. Lynchburg Lemonade

• Ingredients include
• Sweet Tea
• Triple Sec
• Fresh Lemon Juice (tablespoons) Instructions: Mix all ingredients together until well combined. Serve cold over ice cubes and garnish with a lemon slice!

12. Leek

A leek is a type of onion with a milder flavor than other onions. Leeks are used in soups and stews and as an ingredient in making curry sauce, and they will surely serve you perfectly for your Thanksgiving foods that start with L. They also work well with potatoes, spinach, and cream.
Slice off the root end of the leek, cutting up to one inch away from where it starts to flare out into green leaves.
Rinse thoroughly under cold water or soak in boiling water for a few minutes until it is softened but not colored. Trim off any tough parts from the green leaves near the white part, then slice them thinly crosswise.

13. Lahana Sarmasi

Start by chopping onion and green pepper into small pieces. Please place them in a medium-sized pot with vegetable oil, then add tomato paste and salt to taste.
Add water to cover the vegetables, bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
After cooking time is up, remove the pot from the stovetop and stir in sugar (to taste) before leaving it to cool for 30 minutes.
When cooled down, mix in raisins, almonds, and pine nuts before adding rice; ensure the rice is well mixed before returning it to the pot.

14. Lovage

Lovage is an herb that tastes like celery, with a flavor similar to parsley but more intense and more like celery. It's often used in French cooking.
The leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a side dish (often boiled, braised, or sautéed). The seeds can be roasted, ground into a powder, and mixed with water to make a refreshing drink of Thanksgiving foods that start with L.

15. Liqueur

The liqueur is often used to signify a special drink enjoyed on holidays and other occasions that you want to fill your tables with Thanksgiving foods that start with L.
However, Liqueurs are typically sweet and are often made from fruits, nuts, herbs, or spices. One of the most popular liqueurs is Amaretto, made from apricot kernels.

16. Latte

I love a good latte! I like to start my day with one in the morning or have one with an afternoon snack and then end it with a cup of hot cocoa after dinner. Lattes can be enjoyed any time of day.
I love that lattes are easy to make at home. All you need is some whole milk, a teaspoon of espresso, a tablespoon of hot water, and some sweetener if you want it.
Nevertheless, You can make them as strong or as weak as you want by adjusting how much water you add too.
I also like that latte's come in different flavors and combinations, so there is always something new to try when you want your occasion to be special with Thanksgiving foods that start with L.

17. Lakoocha

Lakoocha is a traditional Russian dessert made of dough, oil, and honey;

18. Limeade

The tangy limeade is a refreshing drink for hot summer days. All you need to do is squeeze some fresh lime juice into a glass of water and add sugar if desired.
Also, a few ice cubes will help keep it cold while you sip on this delicious drink. If you want to make iced limeade, place all ingredients in a pitcher and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Pour over ice and enjoy!

19. Lavash

Lavash is thin, unleavened loaves of bread that are usually baked in a large clay oven called a tandoor. They can be used as Thanksgiving foods that start with L for serving guests.
The word lavash is derived from an Armenian word that means bread. Like many other cultures, Armenians wrap their traditional dishes in lavash before serving them to guests.
Their cuisine often includes dishes like kebabs or kabobs wrapped up in lavash before being eaten.

20. Lumpia

The Filipino dish, Lumpia, is one of the Thanksgiving foods that start with L, an egg roll with a savory filling wrapped in a thin wrapper and deep fried to create a crispy exterior.
Lumpia is usually served as an appetizer or as part of the main meal. The word lumpia means spring roll in Tagalog, reflecting that this dish has been around since ancient times in Southeast Asia.
L lumpia is typically made with ground pork, carrots, onion, garlic, and chili peppers in Filipino cuisine.
The mixture is then rolled up into flour wrappers that have been cut into strips before being dipped into hot oil to fry them until golden brown. This cooking method makes for a crispy outside with a moist inside and flavorful filling.

21. Lollipop

The lollipop is one of the most iconic sweet treats in America. In fact, more than 100 billion lollipops are made each year in the United States.
However, did you know that this confection has been around since at least as early as 1796? Believe it or not, Thomas Adams is credited with being the first person to put a stick into a ball of candy!
In addition to being a popular treat for people of all ages and backgrounds, lollipops also make great props for wedding photos and party favors for birthday celebrations. Plus, they're perfect for stocking stuffers too!

22. Lingcod

The lingcod is a type of fish that lives in cold water. It has a light, delicate, and meaty texture. There are many different ways to prepare this as one of the Thanksgiving foods that start with L, and it can be used in soups or stews as well as baked on its own.
The skin should be removed before cooking because it can become tough after cooking. The lingcod can also be grilled or pan-fried with butter and herbs, which will help keep the meat from drying out.
The best way to cook this fish is by baking it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes per inch of thickness (when measured at the thickest part). This ensures that the flesh is moist and tender without being dry or overcooked.

23. Littleneck

A littleneck is a type of clam found in the Atlantic Ocean and used as one of the common and popular thanksgiving foods that start with L. The name comes from its small size, which is about half that of a cherrystone clam.
This small bivalve mollusk has a hard and shiny exterior shell. Littleneck is often eaten steamed or raw as sushi, but they can also be used to make clam chowder or pasta dishes.

24. Limburger

This cheese is perfect for those who love a strong flavor. It's tangy, salty, and slightly pungent. This cheese has been aged for at least six months to help develop its complex flavor profile.

25. Lard

Lard is an animal fat that can be rendered to make cooking oil and soap. Lard has a higher melting point than butter, so it’s also often used in frying food.
Lard is also often used in desserts, such as pies and biscuits because it makes them flaky and crispy. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, lard can be replaced with vegetable shortening.
But it’s important to read the labels of any replacement product before using it because some contain hydrogenated oils, which are high in saturated fats and low in trans-fats.
For healthier alternatives to lard, try coconut oil or margarine made from plant-based fats such as soybean or sunflower oil instead!

26. Loaf

Many different types of Thanksgiving foods start with L, including quick-bread loaves, yeast-bread loaves, and sweet-bread loaves.
It's possible to find traditional versions or versions with nuts or raisins for some added texture or sweetness.
Bread can also be shaped into a round shape instead of a loaf. This is called a bâtard or boule. The word loaf comes from the Old English word hlāf, meaning bread.

27. Liverwurst

This German specialty is made with a mixture of pork and beef liver, bacon, and spices. It's typically served as part of a charcuterie platter or on rye bread.
Liverwurst is best when it's cooked to an internal temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit. This will give it that nice brown color and a slightly crispy crust.
The taste of liverwurst depends largely on how much bacon is included in the recipe, which determines its saltiness.
A good rule of thumb is that if you want to make something sweet for your Thanksgiving foods that start with L, liverwurst is a go, and you must use less bacon than you would for something savory (or add sweetener ingredients).

28. Land Cress

A delicate green herb with a peppery flavor, land cress is not to be confused with watercress which belongs to another genus entirely.
The plants of land cress are delicate, so it is best when eaten raw in salads or sandwiches.
Another way to enjoy it is by mixing it into fish sauces and using it as a garnish on soups. It does not keep very long, so you should use this herb immediately.

29. Loquat

The loquat, or Japanese plum, is a small fruit with a sweet and sour flavor. It is usually available in late winter and early spring. The loquat has green, leathery skin and yellow flesh.
You can eat them raw or cooked; they are often used to make jellies, jams, chutneys, and pies. Loquats contain high amounts of vitamin C and antioxidants.

30. Lemongrass

I can't think of anything better to eat on a cold, wintery day than a big bowl of thanksgiving foods that start with L.
The zesty, citrus flavor is perfect for warming up your insides while also providing a nice little vitamin boost. It's such an easy recipe too!
However, you need some chicken broth, fresh lemongrass, peeled ginger root, lots of fresh cilantro, and some salt (and pepper if you want) to taste.
Just add everything to a pot and let it simmer on low heat until all the flavors are well combined. I like to make this with lots of toppings like fried shallots, chopped peanuts, or even basil leaves that I can stir before serving.

31. Limoncello

The word limoncello literally means lemon honey in Italian. This sweet, citrus-flavored liqueur is perfect for any occasion, but especially on Christmas and New Year's Eve!
Limoncello is made by infusing lemon peels in alcohol, adding sugar to sweeten it, and then letting it rest for months.
It's usually served chilled or over ice with a splash of water or club soda. To make limoncello even more festive, add some fresh cranberries to make a cranberry limoncello!

32. Lettuce

Do you need a quick way to make your Thanksgiving dinner better? Try adding some Thanksgiving foods that start with L to it!
Lettuce has many health benefits, so it's a good idea to include this leafy green as part of your traditional menu. Here are some of the best Thanksgiving foods that start with L.
When it comes to lettuce, there are many different varieties to choose from. Green and red leaf lettuce both have a slightly bitter taste with a more bitter flavor when they're older.
Romaine is crunchier and has a more peppery taste which goes well with heavy salad dressings. An iceberg is milder than other lettuce and is a great choice for those who don't like the stronger flavors of other types of lettuce.

33. Lobscouse

This traditional Newfoundland dish is made with salt beef, potatoes and onions. Cooked in a pot or kettle, it's simmered together until tender and then thickened with flour.
The word lobscouse comes from the French lobster as this dish will be perfect for selecting from Thanksgiving foods that start with L.
It was originally made with lobster meat before salt beef became popular due to its affordability.
Lobscouse also has many variations depending on where you are in Newfoundland: it may be cooked in a large pot or kettle over an open fire and boiled for at least 4-6 hours; it might be served without vegetables (because they were scarce); and it might include carrots, turnip or parsnips.

34. Loganberry

The Loganberry is a cross between a blackberry and a raspberry. It was developed in 1907 by John Watson, who was a plant breeder from New Jersey.
The Loganberry typically has three to four times more sugar than other berries, with an intense taste that ranges from tart to tangy.
In addition to being delicious, the Loganberry is easy to grow and can be easily stored for long periods of time because of its high sugar content.

35. Lekvar

The word Lekvar is a common name for a fruit preserve made from whole quinces peeled and cooked with sugar.
The finished product has a consistency similar to that of jelly and can be used as a dessert topping or spread on cakes.
It also makes an excellent sauce when mixed with chicken, game meat, or pork. The name Lekvar comes from the Hungarian word lekvár, meaning fruit preserve.

36. Lox

You can't go wrong with lox when it comes to Thanksgiving foods that start with L. This cured salmon is delicious and packed with nutrients that will keep you energized all morning long.
Plus, it's super easy to make! How To Make Lox. Rinse a 1-pound salmon filet under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel on both sides.
Season both sides of the salmon with salt and pepper and place in a large bowl or dish. Combine one cup of sugar, one cup of kosher salt, three tablespoons dried dill weed, two tablespoons crushed black peppercorns, and four whole bay leaves in a small bowl and mix well to combine.

37. Lutefisk

This traditional Scandinavian dish is a gelatinous mass made from dried cod soaked in lye. It has a long history and was popular as a meat substitute during fasting.
Lutefisk is served traditionally with boiled potatoes, melted butter, and ground black pepper.
The taste and texture can be acquired for some people, but there's no denying that it's as appropriate to serve on Thanksgiving as Thanksgiving foods that start with L!
This traditional Scandinavian dish is a gelatinous mass made from dried cod soaked in lye. It has a long history and was popular as a meat substitute during fasting.
Lutefisk is served traditionally with boiled potatoes, melted butter, and ground black pepper.

38. Linguica

This dish is an American-Portuguese sausage made from pork, garlic, and red wine. The Linguica is a popular choice for those who like spicy foods because it has a hot kick to it. It’s commonly served with rice and beans or on its own as a breakfast meat.
Plus, this food is also great for outdoor barbecues because of its long shelf life and low price point. Try Linguica in your next meal today!

39. London Broil

Are you in charge of planning Thanksgiving foods that start with L? If so, congratulations! It's a big responsibility.
You may not know it but in addition to choosing food that everyone likes and making sure there are enough plates, silverware, and napkins on hand, you also need to consider the order of service.
For example: should the London broil be sliced ahead of time, or will people want to carve it themselves?
Will guests serve themselves from an entrée table, or will they be seated at their places with all their dishes set out for them?
And what about drinks? Which beverages will people prefer while they're waiting for dinner—water or wine? As you can see, there are a lot of decisions to make. But don't worry. London broil will always serve your guest right.

40. Liquor

This is obvious and will be needed for some of your guests. There are many different kinds of alcohol to choose from. If you know who will be coming, pick a type of alcohol that suits their tastes, whether that's wine, champagne, or something else entirely.
The liquor store is also where you can find all sorts of mixing ingredients, such as mixers like sodas or juices to go with it.!

41. Lahmacun

It's typically served with yogurt on the side for dipping or as a sauce for dipping. The dough is also sometimes sprinkled with sesame seeds before baking it.
The origins of Lahmacun are not entirely clear, but some believe it originated in Central Asia. While others say, it was popularized by Ottoman soldiers who brought this dish back to Turkey from their travels to Eastern Europe centuries ago.
No matter what its origins may be, one thing remains true - lahmacun is delicious among Thanksgiving foods that start with L!

42. Limpa

It's officially falling. This means that it's time to break out the pumpkin spice, but also time to enjoy the last of summer produce.
One of my favorite things about autumn is that we can finally start making some of our favorite Scandinavian dishes, like Limpa bread.
Limpa is a white bread containing wheat flour, rye flour, and malt syrup. It has a light texture and a lot of flavor from the combination of grains in it.
It was first created in Sweden for Easter Sunday because it's a special type of bread that uses all three main ingredients in communion wafers: wheat flour, water, and wine; rye flour; and malt syrup or molasses.

43. Lalanga

The lalanga, also known as pomegranate, is a tasty fruit with a sweet and tangy taste. It's also one of the first fruits to ripen in late summer.
The name for this fruit comes from the Persian word for apple, and it was brought to India by traders, where locals called it lalang.
There are many different varieties of Thanksgiving foods that start with L, and lalanga is one of them, and lalanga are of different types too, but they all look similar with thin-skinned red or dark-purple fruit.
Lalangas are often eaten fresh or dried, but they can be made into jams and other desserts. Lalangas are high in vitamin C, making them an excellent food for the cold season.

44. Liederkranz

I love Liederkranz. It's a mixture of cheeses, apples, and nuts that is baked in a ring-shaped dish. It's traditionally served at Christmas but tastes great any time of year.
My mom makes it for me every holiday because she knows I love it so much. Nothing is better than biting into one of those thick slices with whipped cream on top.

45. Lupin Beans

This ancient legume, lupin beans, is relatively unknown in the United States. They are gaining popularity with chefs and heirloom food enthusiasts alike due to their meaty texture, earthy flavor, and ease of use.
Lupins can be used in many dishes, including soups, salads, or even rice replacement. Rinse and soak overnight in water to which you have added 2 Tbsp of salt.
Drain and rinse again before cooking for about 30 minutes until tender but not mushy. Flavor with butter, soy sauce, or garlic if desired (optional).

46. Lavender

The first letter of lavender is L for Lavender. Lavender is a perennial plant and can be found in many colors, including purple, white, blue, and pink. The leaves are used for cooking, but the flowers are also edible.
This herb has a gentle flavor that goes well with other herbs like thyme or rosemary. Adding it at the end of the cooking process is best because heat will cook away some of its flavors.
When making mint tea or iced tea, you can use lavender buds as a substitute for peppermint leaves.

47. Lady Apple

Mix one cup of apple cider with three tablespoons of brown sugar in a bowl. Peel and chop two apples.
Add the apples to the mixture and stir. Place in a pot over medium heat and bring to a boil, occasionally stirring until it starts to thicken.
Reduce heat to low, cover pot, and let simmer for 15 minutes or until it becomes syrupy. Serve warm or cold with vanilla ice cream as a topping if desired.

48. Lentils

Lentils are an inexpensive and healthy source of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Lentils are also a good source of fiber which can help lower cholesterol levels.
They are perfect Thanksgiving foods that start with L for people with diabetes because they have a low glycemic index and do not cause rapid spikes in blood sugar.
Lentils come in both green and brown varieties and can be served on their own as a side dish or mixed with other ingredients to make soup, casseroles, or chili.

49. Lemons

The quintessential lemon is a yellow citrus fruit that looks like a large, roundish lime. Lemons are high in vitamin C and low in calories; they contain both citric and ascorbic acid.
The juice of lemons can be used as a flavoring or as an ingredient in many Thanksgiving foods that start with L, including desserts like lemon meringue pie.

50. Limes

Lime is a citrus fruit that is round in shape and lime green in color, though they come in various shades of green, from yellow-green to dark green, depending on the ripeness of the fruit.
They are typically sour and juicy, with some varieties being sweeter than others. Limes are a great way to add some tangy flavor to your dishes.
Whether you want to use them for margaritas or want to squeeze a little juice on top of your dish, limes will give you that tangy flavor.
Juicing limes can be messy, which is more challenging than juicing oranges because they are much smaller.
Be careful when juicing limes because you can easily get seeds in your drink, and nobody wants that. If you don't care about the seeds, squeezing limes might be easier for you than any other citrus fruit.

51. Liver

This nutrient-packed and low-calorie food should be noticed. It is rich in Vitamin A, Iron, and Selenium. The liver is also a good source of Zinc, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Copper, and Potassium.
The consumption of liver can help build muscle mass due to its high protein content, which is perfect for Thanksgiving foods that start with L.

52. Lemon Basil

This recipe is a twist on traditional basil pesto. I wanted to use lemon because it's such an awesome flavor and in this recipe has that tart citrusy taste, which is perfect for fall.
It includes cilantro, garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and basil. It's so simple to make and will be a great addition to your thanksgiving menu!

• Cup fresh cilantro leaves (leaves only) Cup fresh basil leaves (leaves only)
• Cup olive oil
• Cloves garlic
• Juice from one lemon
  
• A pinch of salt
  
• A few dashes of chili flakes
  

53. Lemon meringue pie

There is nothing more comforting or delicious to warm up with on Thanksgiving day than thanksgiving foods that start with L. Lemon meringue pie.
It has an airy, melt-in-your-mouth crust, creamy lemon filling, and a fluffy meringue topping that's baked to perfection.
You can make this dessert in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to serve it. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Line the pie crust with parchment paper or foil and fill it with pie weights or dry beans so that it doesn't puff up while baking.
Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and remove parchment paper or foil along with weights and beans before adding the filling.

54. Lamb’s Lettuce

This type of lettuce is a cross between romaine and butterhead lettuce and has an overall soft appearance. The leaves are green or dark red in color and grow to be about five inches wide.
It features a mild flavor that blends well with most salad dressings, making it a favorite among chefs.
The leaves are crisp and can hold up to heavy dressings without wilting or becoming soggy like some other lettuces do when mixed with creamy sauces.
Conclusion
I hope this post has helped you with your search for new thanksgiving foods that start with L. It's important to keep in mind that only some dishes work for some families.
So be sure to make a list and try it out before you commit to anything. And, of course, if you have any occasion, please feel free to use thanksgiving foods that start with L. Happy Thanksgiving!

I suffered from crippling gastritis for over 10 years, it affected my mental and overall health, took all the medicines, diets, lifestyle changes you can come up with and more, visited several doctors and did all the test (even gallbladder, pancreas and liver tests) and stomach PH, Sibo. Its likely that if you have read about it, I have tried it. You can see my posts in the past here, desperate searching, looking for a solution after 10 years of struggle. I am not promising this will heal you as it did me, but If you were to follow on any advice that is at least not going to hurt you, let it be this. I can guarantee you I've felt your desperation, pain and anxiety for over a decade.
Bismuth, Omeprazole, Pantoprazole, Rabeprazole (been on an off them for years at a time), Famotidine, Ranitidine, Antibiotics (They never found H.Pylori but still decided to put me on antibiotics), Domperidone, Metoproclamide, IVs with Vitamins and Glutathione, PepZin Gi, Iberogast, BPC, Mastic Gum, Multivitamins, Digestive Enzymes, Colostrum, Gelatin, Collagen, Glutamine, Curcumin, fasting, keto, boiled food only. Obviously, for years no spicy food, no alcohol, no caffeine, no smoking, no chocolate, nothing really tasty. I would also avoid eating protein because it made the indigestion feel x10 worse (no eggs, chicken, fish, meat)... Hell, I even did intermittent hypoxia, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (It did help my tinnitus however).
Everyday after eating, I felt what I can only describe as a 15-30 minute relief, followed by a "stone" in the stomach, feelings of indigestion/dyspepsia that lasted for 3-6 hours post eating, bloating, discomfort that turned into actual pain at times, acid reflux when waking up (burnt throat).
I learned to sleep on a chair for years (actually sitting with a very very mild inclination, similarly to a plane chair) to avoid the bad reflux (this led me to chronic neck pain and tensional headaches which I am currently working on fixing) no food or water 4 hours before bed.
In 90 days of a drastic diet change based on a simple principle, I healed 80-90% of my gastritis symptoms, in 180 days gone, after 270 days or so, I am now working my way to slowly quitting taking Omeprazole and antiacids but I experiment no discomfort, note: today I ate 9 Oreos, drank a beer, had pancakes with jam . This would have been unimaginable 6 months ago. All of this while my stress levels remain the same through-out the journey (stress was never a factor).
Now I am not saying this will change your life like it did mine, but if you have tried everything and you experience symptoms similar to mine, give this a try. Just for the record, I have read hundreds of relevant research paper about gastritis, I often felt I knew more about gastritis than the specialists I visited, ill say this with the utmost respect to medical professional in something as uncertain as gastritis, most don't have a clue what they are dealing with, they are stochastic parrots with A/B/C options.
What changed everything for me was stumbling upon "Fast Track" by Dr Norm Robillard, now I am not saying you buy anything from him, ill give you the scoop. The reason why I found him was because although my gastritis was pretty terrible, it was my reflux that was really messing even with my capacity to sleep, I had given up hope on ever fixing my gastritis, but had hope on fixing my reflux, after all I was worried of Barret's Esophagus which is a pre-cancerous condition (was even consulting with a doctor for potential surgery).
His theory is pretty simple ill get into it soon, but here are my own findings from reading hundreds of academic research papers and my own experience A lot of people can get gastritis from "x" (it can be whatever) but gastritis technically heals relatively fast (matter of weeks/months) If you feel you are not healing while you are being respectful with your diet and habits, If you dont have atrophic or auto-immune gastritis (which are very rare) if you dont have H.pylori and/or if your pancreas/gall bladdeliver are all functioning properly, something ELSE is wrong. In general as a rule of thumb for most, you can assume that if you dont have H.Pylori but you have chronic gastritis while being responsible for 1-2 months without improvements, there is a very, very high chance there is an overgrowth of bacteria taking place.
You can screw up your stomach lining doing something silly, out of stress, Covid, whatever it may be, its pretty irrelevant, pretty much everyone (some with more tendency than others) can get a gastritis's.
What is the first thing Doctors do ? They give you Omeprazole or Famotidine and a pat in the back of course, its on the manual.
Long-term Omeprazole (PPIs in general) and H2 Blockers are the biggest friend and foes imaginable for the gastritis sufferer, and they are in my opinion more often than not the reason behind most issues even if indirectly. Anything that lowers stomach PH is an aid to heal relatively faster, at the expense of changing a very complex ecosystem that was DESIGNED to have acidic environment for a reason. Not only because it dissolved food but it stops the proliferation of bacteria in an area of the body that deal with the highest bacteria activity than any other organ. Lowering your PH just by 0.1 fir months WILL by itself cause noticeable changes in your microbiota, now imagine lowering 0.5 or even 1 sustained for weeks/months.
When you take omeprazole for a couple of months, you will get bacterial overgrowth in the earlier long intestinal tract, there is NO WAY around that, its non-negotiable, you have lowered the PH chronically, you have allowed these things to proliferate, for some this problem might have even been there before Gastritis, before omeprazole, you just made it worse, hell, for some it might be the reason you have gastritis on the first place too.
There is going to be fermentation from this bacteria feeding on the food and releasing Methane/Hydrogen, this built up gas which in turn makes night reflux happens as your sphincter relaxes while you sleep, the acid will burn your stomach and esophagus/throat, this perpetuates a never ending cycle of impossibility to heal. But it does not simply stay there, when there is gas build up in the small intestine (while you are awake and not sleeping) the sphincter interprets that as having an overload of food (it is full after all), so the Pyloric sphincter (the "valve" that connects the Duodene and the small intestine) will not open up, allowing the stomach to hold up the food for longer which consequently leads to acid further irritating the stomach, when what you really need is for the food to leave your stomach as soon as possible, the less activity the better, in layman terms, the gases are "fooling" your nervous system to have a delayed gastric emptying, not to the point where it becomes gastroparesis, but to the point where you are often experimenting the symptoms of functional dyspepsia (which in a nutshell are all the symptomatic discomforts of gastritis). In the medical world, functional dyspepsia and gastritis are very cool words which mean "idk what the hell it is, but there is inflammation, bloating, discomfort and/or pain, that is why you get omeprazole, not an answer as to how you can cure the source of your problems, its all way too inclusive and generic.
So you see, gas is the problem, that creates reflux during the night (irritating the stomach lining), and delays gastric emptying during the day (irritating the stomach lining), gas generated by bacteria's that shouldnt be there, because you changed the habitat of a very delicate ecosystem. So you see, maybe your gastritis was because you were sipping margaritas and takin ibuprofen, or whatever it was, the point is, good Ol´Omeprazole is low-key not allowing you to heal because it promotes a dramatically negative effect. You are probably on your 6th month taking PPIs, fighting the rebounds for a second time, but you were never really fine on the first place, you are constantly setting yourself back, prolonging the cycle of bacteria proliferation. Quitting PPIs is an art, and this hunts and hurts a lot of people that don't know what they are doing, because as I said, Omeprazole always ends up becoming the issue, you came for "X" and you left with "Y" problem.
Ok enough talking, how do you fix it ? In principle its simple, you need to starve the bacteria and eventually get off the PPIs, H2 blockers and antacids. If you accomplish this, there is a solid chance you will heal your reflux and gastritis.
So how do you starve them ? You make a drastic diet change. I know, you probably been there before, but this one is gonna hit you like a Mike Tyson hook, my dear boy. Fun fact, I did a SIBO test and got negative even before starting this diet, and that is the point, you dont need to be diagnosed from SIBO to have issues with bacteria overgrowth, I wont get into too many details, but SIBO diagnosis and standardization is not where it needs to be, if you have what is known as "Methane SIBO" but you have an overgrowth of certain Eubacteria and archaebacteria known as methanophiles (they feed on Methane) but you also have an overgrowth of other bacteria which produce Methane (methanogens) your breath test might claim you don't have SIBO, when in truth, you do, but that is another chapter.
Say bye bye to the following;
-Potatoes (in any shape or form) -Rice -Artificial sweeteners -Anything with Lactose, potentially anything lactose-free too -Fructose (Yeah that too, say bye to fruit for a while)
Bet you ate a lot of the above, thinking it was cool, eh ? I remember eating rice for 4 months straight (lost 20 pounds) and felt worse daily, makes sense now, same with potatoes.
There are a few things more, but pretty irrelevant, instead lets focus on what did I eat ? You can look into the book I mentioned above, or if you want extreme, do as I did. All I know is that I starved the living crap of whatever was causing my reflux and bloating, and as a consequence my gastritis healed.... This was never a goal, it was by accident, by trying to fix 1 problem I solved everything.
I ate minced meat, eggs, salmon, olive oil, chicken, dextrose (you don't need to go into ketosis, buy dextrose) which is a super fast acting sugar (just be careful with it) the cool thing about dextrose is that its glycemic index allows it to be absorbed incredibly fast, not allowing to ferment (unlike fructose) and use it on things, I often did sweet omelets', sounds disgusting, well, they are disgusting, but it did the trick for me. No vegetable, just full blown protein diet with dextrose, I did drink a lot of green tea, but I have been doing that for 8 years.
1 month later reflux and bloating gone, 3 months later, pains and overall acid sensation gone, 6 months later, I am eating Oreos and KitKats! I no longer do the diet, I eat whatever I want nowadays, its been 3 months of eating freely, again, I am pretty responsible but gastritis is no longer a drawdown, my focus is fixing all the issues caused by over 1 decade of changing my habits around it. I am very conscious that I am likely vulnerable to suffering gastritis again which is why i will never get out of line with my stomach, but I am very positive and hopeful I can continue to live a normal life when it comes to my guy. I am not out of the woods I still need to quit PPIs but I have a very long-term approach which is working. For those that may wonder, my last endoscopy revealed gastritis is gone (first time I get that diagnosis in 7 endoscopic tests)
Yes, I suffered daily for 10 years, and I suffer no more. I hope you can heal, friend.

This is not intended to be medical advice, this is me sharing my journey and how I came to some major conclusions about what caused such a severe systemic candida overgrowth, because reading other people’s experiences helped me discover this.
I’ll leave some info on what I actually eat in a day - finding out what to eat was the HARDEST part of this so I want to leave some hope.
This is not forever, but we need to give our bodies the best shot at healing.
Before you start ANY candida killing protocol - I would make sure of the following:

1. Passing stool at least once a day
2. Urinating regularly
3. Sweating regularly in controlled scenarios and able to wash the sweat OFF after
4. Magnesium sulfate (epsom salt) baths regularly to detox through skin
5. Consuming zero gluten
6. Zero refined grains - rice, oats etc.
7. Consuming zero dairy for a month
8. Increase fibre: leafy greens, avoid excess dark leafy greens as they’re high in oxalates
9. Supporting the liver with herbal teas: dandelion root, milk thistle seed, calendula, peppermint, fennel
10. Zero seed oils: use avocado, olive or coconut
11. Zero processed food for the first two weeks - a month other than occasional peanut butter / almond butter, almond milk and coconut milk.
12. Check all products if they contain tapioca starch / maltodextrin - this raises your blood sugar.
13. Avoid protein powder, this raises your insulin resistance (while it might not raise glucose, it does contribute to insulin instability)
14. No fruit for the first two weeks - slowly reintroduce low carb fruit like blueberries, blackcurrants, blackberry
15. Reduce toxic load: Aluminum from cookware; fragrances; harsh cleaning chemicals; soaps and beauty products; oxalates - spinach; phytic acid - nuts and seeds that haven’t been activated; lectins - legumes. A normal healthy person will have no issue digesting and breaking these down - you will. Your liver is already working so hard, take some pressure off.
16. Find a way to regulate your nervous system EVERY DAY: vagal nerve exercises, somatic exercise, walking with intention, go to the beach, ground your feet in the earth, hug a tree, listen to bird song, breathing exercises, yoga, qigong, taichi, tapping, something.
17. Limit phone usage after sunset, switch to orange warm lighting after sunset.
18. Get outside, sun on your face as early in the morning as you can for at least 15 minutes, no sunglasses
19. Oil pulling daily first thing in the morning - if oral candida is present this habit is absolutely necessary
20. Consider supplementing Vitamin D3 + K2, up to 3000 IU per day
21. If you’re still working, consider reducing your hours or taking some time off. I know money is important, but so is your health. How are you going to earn sustainably if you’re constantly taking time off for illness?
22. Consider finding a local naturopathic or functional medicine doctor - I wish I had done this earlier.

If you are experiencing strong herx reactions, STOP any antifungals or even herbal supplements for 1-2 months because your detox pathways are NOT open and flowing - so all the toxicity from the dead and alive candida is getting stuck in your system.
Focus on detoxification, and getting the same active ingredients in your diet and herbal tea instead! Garlic, ginger, oregano, thyme - that doesn’t sound like a good tea but it slaps as seasoning for chicken meat stock. Caprylic acid is found in coconut oil!
Why are the candida here? This took me ages to figure out… Adrenal fatigue, a struggling immune system and trouble eliminating waste.

1. SSRIs, ADHD medication all raise blood sugar and lead to adrenal fatigue
2. Excessive use of antihistamines and topical steroids suppress the immune system and lead to adrenal fatigue
3. High carb, high processed diet lead to uncontrolled blood sugar, insulin resistance
4. Dysregulated nervous system leads to prolonged stress, leads to nutrient deficiency over time
5. Poor detoxification pathways due to lifestyle mentioned above, also a potential genetic component of MTHFR genes - not confirmed as I’m waiting on testing but I observe poor detoxification in all family members on my mother’s side.
6. Poor immune system function due to lifestyle mentioned above, lymph nodes were hard and backed up
7. Struggling liver despite not consuming alcohol, it was overloaded with detoxification requirements, my eyes started to turn yellow
8. Gut dysbiosis. I had far too many antibiotics in my life. I have discovered herbal and extract remedies that can get rid of incoming strep throat. Support the immune system and detox pathways, rest, and your body will do the work.
9. Mercury and aluminum, I found through HTMA testing my body was eliminating some heavy metals. I switched to stainless steel cookware, aluminum free deodorant. I don’t even use deodorant most days now.
10. Issue with methylation due to lifestyle mentioned above, potential genetic component. Changing your diet and lifestyle can support proper methylation of chemicals in your body, I achieved this naturally with melatonin regulation! I don’t need to take it anymore.

Testing I had done:

• HTMA - this gives you a snapshot of what your body is / isn’t eliminating at present. It’s what prompted me to self-diagnose with adrenal fatigue because I displayed minimal amounts of sodium and potassium despite my blood tests showing normal amounts. I wasn’t absorbing them due to gut dysbiosis. It’s also how I found out I have 0 lithium, I take 25mg lithium so I could get off my ADHD medication. It’s not a necessary test but it can be helpful - and get you a script for lithium if you need it.
• Full liver panel - I had low GGT, not quite liver disease but it did mean my liver was slow (yellowing eyes, cloudy vision)
• Zinc (plasma) - still waiting on test results
• Homocysteine - still waiting on results
• Early morning histamine - still waiting on results

Why no testing for candida?
It’s hard to test for, it’s expensive. I didn’t need a test. I’d had yeast infections for years. It was in my vagina, the corners of my mouth, my hand, my toe, my gut. I had such an intense craving for sugar and carbs, partly due to insulin resistance, but I would get very moody and upset without them. This is the candida screaming, not you, you have to have the willpower to go low carb for 2 weeks to get through this. I don’t crave or miss refined carbohydrates anymore... okay I get a little when I'm on my third 'kill protocol' day (at end of post).
How did I know it's not SIBO or something else? After I nailed the diet for two weeks, cut out refined and starchy carbohydrates - any bloating I had went away. It was never that bad in the first place for me personally.
What did I eat in my elimination period?

• Fresh vegetables: avocado (watch out if you have histamine intolerance 😭), leafy greens, butternut squash, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, radish, cucumber, celery, rocket/arugla, bok choy
• Flavour: White onion, red onion (I literally have it with every meal now), garlic
• Spices: Oregano, thyme, basil, sage, salt, pepper, fennel, turmeric,
• Meats: Chicken meat stock (not bone broth), chicken soup (meat stock + chicken thigh)
• Oils: coconut, extra virgin olive, avocado (high histamine)
• “Snacks” Keto bread; almond butter; occasional peanut butter; smoothies with blueberry, blackcurrant, blackberries, almond milk; activated and then dehydrated or roasted nuts and seeds; keto seed crackers with no additives or preservatives
• Two hard boiled eggs a day with breakfast (best B vitamin out there)

What do I eat now?

• All of the above, I'll be honest I'm scared to try new foods again but I know I'll need to start pushing myself to do so.
• I’m putting a few more berries into my smoothie
• Carrot sticks
• Apples, I am experimenting with one a day 30 minutes before a meal or two hours after (fruit digests really fast, so we want it to get through the small intestine really quickly, other food such as fats can slow down digestion in the upper intestines and lead to more sugar released into the system than we want)
• Red meat 3 times a week
• Occasional dairy at minimal amounts

Where’s your fermented food and cabbage?!

• I have histamine intolerance, so unfortunately I can’t have these, I’ve had to restore my microbiome slower with the cruciferous veggies and a probiotic. I would still recommend avoiding them for your two week elimination period, just to make sure and give your body a break.

Probiotics:

• Clinicians Flora Restore contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri
• Mutaflor: contains non-pathogenic strain Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) - if you’re not pooping I HIGHLY recommend this, yes it’s expensive but if you do at least 50 capsules worth you’ll feel so much better. If you do not take any antibiotics after taking this they will continue to repopulate your system.

The kill protocol:
THIS IS A SLOW BURN. If you come in hot and heavy trying to kill every last one of these suckers you will be the sucker. You can’t eradicate all candida, we actually need some for digestion, we’re just trying to remove the overgrowth and encourage a more diverse microbiome through diet.

• Stay on your elimination diet for 2-4 weeks until things start to calm down, slowly turn up the herbs in your diet, you’ll be surprised how much you can enjoy orally once your sugar cravings are gone.
• Find a supplement that contains oregano extract, sodium caprylate (caprylic acid), ginger, turmeric extract, olive extract. Do your research, read reviews, watch out for additives.
• I like Candicial by xymogen as it’s a relatively low serving.
• For Candicial start with one capsule with food for 3 days, and then take a 3 day break.
• If you feel similar to before you started the diet, I’m sorry but that means it’s working. Go hard on the detox support; Hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy, manual oxygenation with breathwork, epsom salt bath, increase water intake, herbal tea, warm showers, sauna, walking.
• Make sure you’re taking a probiotic in the evening before bed, two hours away from the supplement.
• If you get: pimples, rashes on the backs of your hands or other places, fatigue, muscle or joint aches and pains, flu like symptoms - these are all normal and that’s why we take a 3 day break. To give our body a chance to catch up to the detoxification it has to do.
• Use distractions, spend time with friends and family,
• Keep going with 3 days on, 3 days off, at one pill until symptoms subside or are at least tolerable, then increase to the full dosage (for Candicial that’s two pills) until you get to that stage where symptoms have subsided again
• Sometimes we’re worse at detoxing, especially when we’re stressed - you might need to dial it back to one pill sometimes and that’s okay

Why no NAC:

• For severe and systemic candida like myself, it's best to wait until symptoms are well under control before starting NAC. This is under the advisement of my naturopathic doctor.

I'm a slow detoxer, slow methylator, adrenal fatigue, slow liver, my body doesn't have the strength or resources to handle how strong NAC can be.
Emergency detox:

• For severe symptoms that aren’t decreasing after eating or drinking, you could take 1-2 activated charcoal pills. This will dehydrate you, so drink lots of water. It binds to EVERYTHING, so if you have any life saving medication please be aware. Best taken 2 hours before or after food and medication, because it will bind to it all and you’ll eliminate it. I do not recommend this for daily use, try to focus on the other detoxification pathways instead: urine, poop, sweat, liver.

As always, thanks to SpacePaladin15 for the wonderful universe!
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Memory Transcription Subject: Tillsi, Dossur Podcaster
Date [standardized human time]: March 3, 2137
I’m not sure what I expected when we walked inside the restaurant, me once again riding on Devin’s shoulder, but a small, divided waiting area with two doors was not it. Well, maybe not a ‘waiting’ area, considering the lack of seats. Then my eyes caught the sight of Venscript of all things on the wall between the doors below some human script. ‘Vegan and Vegan Alien guests to the left, all others to the right’. Devin turned to the left and walked through, and I found myself… somewhat underwhelmed, and disappointed.
I could see that the entire area past the doors was once a single large dining area, but a wall of thick plastic divided the two areas, with maybe only 20% of the restaurant being the ‘vegan’ side. There were a few groups of humans on this side, but more than half the seats were empty. I could see vague shapes through the plastic, and my heart seized for a second when I realized that not all of the shadows were human shadows. Devin must have heard me squeak, and after a second of peering where I was looking he stiffened under me as well. His hand came up under me, as if afraid I would run. Not that it wasn’t a compelling idea, but not on Earth! He spoke up quickly.
“Tillsi, don’t freak out, please! I thought you knew there were arxur refugees here? They’ve all passed empathy tests and have been vetted by the UN. They’re not going to eat you, or Hezlin, or me, or any pets, or anything!” I could see the muscles under his skin tighten as his fist closed, a few ‘pops’ ringing out. “I fought the arxur. I’ve seen what they do. These aren’t those arxur, Tillsi.” He turned to look me directly in my eye, or close enough without his chin knocking me off my ‘seat’. “We can leave if you want to, but I assure you, you're safe here.” I took a deep, shuddering breath as I shook my head.
“No, no, it’s fine I guess… I mean, it’s not, but I guess… I’ll have to get used to seeing them, won’t I? He nodded at me, eyes brightening a bit as I forced myself to remain calm.
“I wouldn’t say they’re common, but Florida seems to agree with Arxur a lot… and from what I hear a lot of arxur, a lot of kids, and their parents if they weren't shitheads, stowed away on our supply transports… Anyways, they aren’t a threat! Want to see where they prepare the food?”
I shook myself a bit, trying to clear the thoughts of being devoured, whole and alive, out of my head. I followed his gaze towards the back and saw a large rectangular device with various depressions, all filled with what looked like burnt vegetables, with a door on the wall behind it. As we got closer a staff member stepped out of the back, and upon seeing us walking towards him, immediately headed back inside. Devin chuckled to himself and I swatted his shoulder with my tail. He looked over and smiled at me.
“He’s seen me and Hezlin before, so I get the feeling he’s about to-ah, there he is.” The younger man had returned, smiling wide as he held the door open.
“Heya, want to check out the prep area, right?” I couldn’t help but notice how at ease he seemed with aliens. Not that I expected fear, or hunger, but at the very least I expected curiosity, but no. He looked at us the same way he looked at Devin, just another person. I felt like I was seeing a small slice of the future, then. A human so desensitized to alien interaction that we were ordinary, even the tiny dossur.
Devin nodded under me and I squeaked out a positive. We strode through the door, and immediately the feeling of heat hit me. I noticed another large rectangular device in the back, this one with rows of evenly spaced metal rods crisscrossing the top, and I could see the waves of heat wafting up out of it. The employee turned back towards me, making a sweeping gesture around him. Overall it was a small room, just large enough for the large rectangle, a large and small sink, one of the strange ‘oven/stove’ combinations I had heard of, and a large ‘walk-in refrigerator’. The employee turned to smile at us as his arm took in the tiny room.
“It’s a bit small, but we keep all of our produce we use on this side separate from the meat side, and that grill-” he pointed at the large rectangle, “has never cooked anything other than vegetables and fruit. So no worries about cross-contamination, since there’s nothing to cross! Whoever works over here does it for the whole day, and doesn’t move to the meat side, just in case.” He turned to look directly at Devin, a sly look on his face. “A raw platter?” Devin grinned at the man.
“Yeah, a tiny one please. I’ll go sit down, grab us some drinks. Thanks!” The younger man waved off the thanks as he started pulling various vegetables out of the refrigerator. Next to the door was a small drink vending station, and Devin quickly poured two dark, fizzy drinks for him and Hezlin. He then turned to look at me, eyebrow quirked. I glared at his stare.
“What?” He smiled at me.
“Do you trust my sense of taste?” I shook my head, ignoring the fake dismay on his face.
“I don’t know about that. I trust you, but your taste buds?” He gave a tiny groan and I chittered to myself. “Just give me what you think I would like, I’ll try it.” He poured one more small drink, a bright-yellow liquid whose scent made my whiskers twitch with its intensity. He led us to a small table near the entrance and placed our drinks down. As Hezlin scrambled into a seat Devin carefully held a hand up to his shoulder, and I leapt down from there to the table. He crouched to look Hezlin, and I guess me, in the eye.
“So, I’m going to grab my order on the other side. You be a good boy and listen to Miss Tillsi.” He turned to look at me a bit more directly. “I’ll be right back, but Hezlin can’t go on that side.” He paused as I squeaked and raised a paw.
“Can I come with you? Dossur don’t have the Cure, so I’ll be fine.” His eyes got wide in shock before he frowned.
“I mean, no you don’t, but you realize the entire other side is mostly meat, right? With arxur?” I nodded firmly and he gave a shake of his head. “Okay, well, fine. Your audience probably won’t appreciate it.” I shook my head as I jumped back on his hand.
“I mean, their the ones watching, they know what's going on.” He crouched a bit as he told Hezlin to wait right there, and then we were gone. As Devin moved through the doors I tried to brace myself as I rode on Devin'’s shoulder, but the second we walked into the ‘meat’ side my nose began twitching violently. That smell! Then I saw the arxur.
Two arxur sat at a table, plates piled high with nearly-raw meats in front of them. They had paused, forks and knives (since when do arxur use utensils!) paused in midair as they saw me. Before my fear chemicals even had a chance to get going, though, I saw their heads duck down, eyes moving away from me. Was that… Was that shame? What?
I didn’t get a chance to ask, or look further, as Devin crossed the room towards the back. On this side there was a whole station set up for payments, and as Devin walked up and began to order I took the chance to glance over. On the other side there had been platters full of a variety of burnt vegetables. Over here?
Meat. Meat of so many different varieties I couldn’t even begin to understand what I was looking at. Long meat sticks, round meat in sauce, round meat without sauce, meat with bones still in it! Meat with bones with a crispy, non-meat crust, others with no crust, and the number of piles of meat available, stars! Behind a plastic shield of some sort a human sawed at a piece of meat as big as her torso, tiny slivers of meat falling away. I felt my stomach churn, but I held it in. The smell helped, though… It smelled so… not good, but definitely not bad! Why?
I had missed Devin’s order and payment, so when he simply grabbed a plate and began walking down the line of platters I squeaked in surprise. He glanced at me briefly, but I just tried to nod at him. He spoke up as he reached for a pair of tongs.
“I know this must not be easy to see, but remember, nothing here ever lived. Now, would you like to know what you're looking at, or is ignorance bliss?” I couldn’t help but chuckle at that, despite how poofed my fur was. And how tight my muscles felt.
“I-I guess? Why not? Enlighten us, oh wise pred-omnivore. W-What are you going to be e-eating?” I couldn’t help how tense my voice was, but apparently Devin picked up on the fact I was trying, because he only smiled gently as he levered the sauced round meat out of the tray with a spatula.
“This is a salisbury steak, basically just ground beef that has been cooked with a sauce on it… This is a breaded and fried chicken wing… a half-rack of ribs… and a baked potato.” I was feeling a bit queasy towards the end, as Devin’s plate threatened to weigh nearly as much as I did. That potato, though… I pointed at it with my tail and he grinned.
“I don’t eat meat at home, so this is more of a treat for myself, but if I eat nothing but pure meat I’m just going to want to take a nap. Plus, meat and potatoes used to be kind of a staple. Well, meat, potatoes, and something green. This is me treating myself, though.” I twitched as he added some ‘butter’ to the potato and he glanced over. “Butter comes from milk, so if the cows aren’t happy, we don't get butter these days. It’s harmless. I bet you could eat it, too.” I froze up at that momentarily before slapping his shoulder.
“That’s not funny! Who drinks milk? Eats secretions?” He chuckled as we moved back through the entrance towards the veggie side.
“Every mammal drinks their mothers milk. We just needed another source of food at some point, I guess, and from there, you know…” We sat back down at the table, Devin helping me slide off, before the employee from earlier came over, a small plate in hand. He nodded at me as he carefully sat it down in front of me. It was full of tiny little pieces of fruits and vegetables, along with a similar portion next to them that had been ‘charred’. He smiled as I looked up at him.
“Most aliens who come here haven't eaten our food, or haven't eaten it cooked, so here's a sample platter. Even for us humans, some people don't like carrots, or they hate raw carrots, or cooked ones. This way you get to try everything out beforehand!” He looked positively delighted with himself, and why shouldn’t he? I could feel my tail swishing behind me as I looked up at him.
“Thank you! If there was one vegetable you’d recommend raw and, uhh, ‘charred’, what would it be?” He and Devin both grinned at my wording. The employee reached over, pointing at a piece of orange vegetable.
“Well, my example probably. Carrots are a love it or hate it type thing, but I get the feeling most people enjoy them. There’s bell peppers, some people don’t like the green ones… I gave you some raw zucchini to try, but most humans prefer them cooked… I’ll be honest with you, we don’t grill a lot of our vegetables here, it’s more a meat thing,” I was proud of myself for not flinching, “but we also bake a few dishes… Actually, would you like me to make something for you?” The look in his eyes was somewhat challenging, but he didn’t seem to be mad, so I would ignore it.
“Ah, sure, I guess? I’ll trust your taste buds. Right?” I glanced around, but only the server met my eyes as he squeezed out a yes before ducking back behind the doors. I looked over at Devin, but he only grinned at me. A quick glance at Hezlin showed me the same response: amused, and waiting for something. I flicked my tail behind myself rapidly a few times as Hezlin stood up with his empty plate. I expected Devin to follow him, help him choose his dishes or something, but Devin simply watched as he walked across the room towards the ‘heating station’.
I tore my gaze away from Hezlin momentarily as Devin twisted his head to look at me. Those large orbs should have sent me running, according to the Federation… however, the only thing I picked up from them was worry.
“Tillsi are you, and I guess your audience, going to be… okay with this?” He gestured towards his meat-leaden plate. “I mean, this is meat. I’m not ashamed to eat it, but are you going to be able to handle it?” I chittered a bit as I reached for an un-burnt ‘carrot’ from my sample plate.
“I think if I was going to run away, or my audience was, it would have already happened.” I took a large bite out of the chunk of raw ‘carrot’, and as I began to grind it down my expression brightened. “Wow, this is good!” I reached for the piece of charred- I mean, grilled carrot. It was so much softer, and the burnt taste that was added? I found my tail wagging to the extreme as I devoured the round piece of grilled carrot, Devin looking on with an amused expression. Hezlin was absorbed in his own mound of grilled vegetables, but before I could get a good look at them I followed Devin’s finger downwards as he pointed out various vegetables and fruits to me.
“That cook likes to start with the fruits, so here’s what they have here. Honeydew apple, pineapple, anjou pears, and some watermelon, that's actually a nice little platter…” I hoped my audience caught the hungry look Devin threw at my plate of fruit. I knew he wasn’t a bloodthirsty monster, and hopefully most of my audience didn’t, either, but still! The sight of a human almost visibly salivating over fruit was good optics. He pointed to the lower portions.
“There's a carrot, which it looks like you enjoy? I love them raw or cooked, but the best way to eat them is boiled in orange juice… it’s more of a dessert at that point, but is so good!” His face lit up and I couldn’t help but wonder how that would taste. We had bought a few oranges, but we couldn’t exactly stop at every stall to get a sample, right? So I had no idea what flavorful secrets the strange, color-named fruits contained. His face settled a bit as his finger moved.
“There’s zucchini, most people don’t like them raw unless they're thinly shredded, but cooked? Not my favorite veggie, but I still enjoy them… There’s some kale, it's a leafy veggie thats really good for you, and personally I love it a bit charred and wilted to balance out the bitterness if I’m just eating kale instead of putting it in something…eggplant. I don’t know anyone that eats it raw, but eggplant is a decent, uhh… not meat replacement, but it's thick and tough enough that vegans use it for their main dish, if you will… uhh…” He looked extremely flustered before his finger pointed towards the last pieces. “Those are red and green bell peppers, raw they’re used on sandwiches and some salads, but cooked? Well, they fit into so many categories when you add to them… You can use them in a lot of savory dishes.” I leapt on that, my tail thumping behind me.
“So is savory the flavor I got from the, uhh, grilled carrot?” He frowned a bit in thought as he nodded.
“I guess so? I’ve never tried to identify the flavor profile of ‘savory’... I mean, I get mostly meat but there's a few veggies I would call savory… Mushrooms for sure… Meat is always kind of savory, unless you overcook it-” He paused at the look of confusion on my face (and my ears).
“Regardless of what type it is, meat is usually going to be denser than vegetables… and because it’s so dense, we have to chew it for a long time. Remember-” He smiled widely, teeth on display “-we don’t really have sharp teeth, and we chew with our flat molars mostly. We get a lot more of the flavor than you would from vegetables.” He pulled on a pair of disposable gloves he had taken from the entrance earlier and grabbed the ‘fried chicken’ before taking a large bite out of it, sharp(ish) front teeth flashing as they cut straight through the flesh, right alongside the bone... I noticed that while I still flinched, Hezlin had merely glanced up momentarily.
I couldn’t help but notice the look of pleasure that erupted across Devin’s face as he chewed, the way his shoulders relaxed a tiny bit, the way his eyes closed as he chewed. Which was for longer than I had been expecting, but he had just told me why, hadn’t he? His eyes met mine and I saw a slight ‘smirk’ slash across his mouth before he continued to eat his meat... I shook myself a bit as I turned my attention back to my plate. Time to explore!
Halfway through the meal, right as I neared the end of my sample platter, the employee from earlier returned, keeping a dish out of my sight as he smiled down at me.
“Like I said earlier, we don’t grill a lot of vegetables, not as much as meat, but we do cook with them a lot! Grilling vegetables isn’t the most, ah, expressive way to bring out the flavor. So!” He put the plate down near me with a flourish. “These are mini sweet peppers stuffed with couscous, black beans, diced tomatoes, green onions, and some spices. We do the same dish with bell peppers, which are usually the size of a human fist, but I thought this might be a bit easier for you to eat.” His smile was wide, and I found myself somewhat touched that he had made a single dish just for me.
Four tiny halves of a hollowed-out, stuffed ‘pepper’ sat there, two yellow and two bright orange. The smell coming from the warmly-colored filling, though! My tail went rigid as my nose twitched wildly. I heard a chuckle from Devin, but I ignored him for the moment, turning to fully take in the employee.
“Thank you so much, you didn’t have to do all that for me! It smells amazing though!” He grinned at my enthusiasm, a blush creeping up his neck, before being called away to another table. I didn’t hesitate another second as my paws snatched up one of the bright orange pieces. Which I then immediately dropped, as the heat was simply too much for me. I looked up to see both Devin and Hezlin grinning at me. I playfully glared at them a bit.
“I’ve never eaten food that was still hot! Warm yes, not hot!” I carefully grabbed the piece again, blowing on the end for a good while before I dared to take a bite. It was still hot, but by the stars! I couldn’t stop the absolutely juvenile squeal that erupted from me, but I barely noticed as I chewed. The pepper was sweet, the ‘couscous’ and its fillings were so flavorful! I hadn’t exactly had a poor, limited diet before. I had eaten exotic spices from many different worlds. The spicy, tangy, sweet, savory taste that filled my mouth, though? That level of complexity?
Never.
I barely noticed myself ravenously devouring the rest of the pepper, and then the next one. On my third piece I paused. The yellow was less sweet, but almost tangy? That wasn’t quite right, though… The rest of the stuffed peppers disappeared quickly and I groaned heavily. I was full, oh so full, but I wanted to eat more! I looked up to see Hezlin back at the ‘buffet’, Devin tearing tiny pieces of sauced meat off small bones. He smiled at me, which was a bit disconcerting with his mouth dirty like that, and gestured towards my untouched drink. He swallowed heavily before speaking.
“You’re gonna regret it if you don’t have any fresh lemonade. They make it here daily.” I was thirsty, actually. Most of the Federation didn’t use that much salt in their cooking. Not that I was complaining! The results spoke for themselves louder than I could ever yell. My tongue still felt like it was in shock, a shock which only deepened as a sweet, tangy liquid assaulted it. Within moments the lingering taste of the meal was gone, replaced by a sourness that almost made me pucker my lips up. Devin was grinning at me again, only half of the ‘baked potato’ left on his plate.
“I can only assume that means it’s delicious?” I nodded eagerly.
“The grilled vegetables were good, most of them, but he was right, it was all very plain with no sauces. Those stuffed peppers, though! That was the best thing I’ve ever eaten in my life! The drink is delicious, too! My mouth almost wants to pucker from the sourness, but the sweetness is so intense it mellows it out!” I found my eyes drifting towards Devin’s potato briefly, but eww, no butter, no thank you.
Hezlin returned, awkwardly carrying three small bowls mostly filled with some sort of solid mass. He placed them on the table between our seats (not that I was using mine, but still) before turning his face up towards me with a wide smile. A smile that, as odd as it was to see on a gojid, warmed my heart.
“Miss Tillsi, I got us some icecream! I know you haven't had any before so I got some of each. This one is chocolate, this one is vanilla, and this is strawberry! That one’s the best here!” His enthusiasm was infectious, so even as my chat pinged at me I was smiling, grabbing the small (but still huge) spoon he handed me. I glanced over at my chat for the first time in a while and froze. I looked over at Devin uncertainly, but he just chuckled.
“It’s made from oats, a type of grain. They make a milk substitute out of oat that I actually really like, but for this? Don’t worry. The whole point of this being partitioned off-” his arm swept in a gesture, taking in the long sheet of plastic “-is that there is only vegan stuff over here. There's real ice cream over there, but I’m not picky.” He pointed towards the small bowls. “Go ahead and try them all, I’ll have what you two don’t eat. I need to go wash off a bit.” He pulled his gloves off and stood, carrying his plate as he made his way back to the other side, and presumably the bathroom.
I took the chance to glance at my chat. Recent polls showed that most of my stream hadn’t enjoyed seeing arxur, or that much meat, or anything over there. Devin had dropped in popularity a bit after being shown eating a bunch of meat, but Hezlin was currently, according to my chat, the cutest pup in the galaxy. His eagerness to show off his favorite foods was endearing. Speaking of…
At Hezlin’s urging I took a small bite from the ‘vanilla’ bowl, my entire coat poofing out from the intense, unexpected chill. Then the flavor hit my tongue, and I couldn’t hold in a moan of enjoyment. I bloomed heavily under my fur, but quickly took a bite from the others. The strawberry was good, but stars, the chocolate! I quickly began to devour the bowl, Hezlin grabbing the strawberry one. Hezlin had already gone for a second bowl of strawberry by the time Devin got back, dropping into his chair with a dull thud. He quickly grabbed the remaining bowl and spoon, and in mere moments had practically inhaled the ‘vanilla’. I stared at him in shock over the melted remains of mine as he smiled eyes wide and innocent.
“What?” I shook my head at the childish expression on his face. As Hezlin slid into his seat Devin raised one of his eyebrows as he looked at me.
“Enjoy some cheap Earth food?”
I finally cut the stream as we got back into the car, a long, apparently boring drive ahead of us according to Devin. Hezlin fell asleep almost as soon as he was strapped into his car seat, light squeaks coming from the back seat. As the van pulled out and I settled into my crash bulb I asked a question that had been on my mind for awhile.
“Devin, do you know what a dilf is?”

Have you ever felt like a boat adrift on life's vast ocean, yearning for a compass to navigate the spiritual tides? You're not alone. In the ceaseless quest for meaning, forging a deep spiritual connection with us and God is a journey rather than a destination. It's a path littered with the quiet whispers of the soul rather than the deafening noise of existence. But how does one cultivate such an elusive growth?
Herein lies the power of daily habits – those steadfast anchors that hold the potential to elevate us from the mundane to the sublime. Let's embark on a transformative journey through practical daily habits that can steer your spirit towards its true north.
Meditation
Meditation has long been revered as a powerful tool for spiritual growth, often as a pivotal practice in numerous wisdom traditions. It fosters a deepened sense of awareness and inner tranquility, providing a fertile ground for spiritual insights and enlightenment.
Engaging in mindful meditation is a transformative practice that shifts one's focus away from the external cacophony of daily life to the serene inner landscapes of the mind and spirit. This focus on the present moment helps in several ways:
Cultivating Awareness: By focusing on the breath or the immediate experience, one learns to observe thoughts and emotions without attachment, recognizing their transient nature. Promoting Equanimity: Regular practice nurtures a balanced mind, helping to maintain calmness in the face of life's ups and downs. Enhancing Concentration: Mindful meditation improves the ability to concentrate, essential for any deep spiritual work. Fostering Compassion: As one becomes more aware of one's inner life, empathy and compassion toward others are often naturally expanded. Encouraging Detachment: Meditation helps in detaching from materialistic desires and ego-driven pursuits, aligning one closer to spiritual ideals. A detailed example of mindful meditation might look like this:
Step 1: Preparation Choose a quiet and comfortable place where you won’t be disturbed. Sit in a relaxed position with your back straight. This could be on a cushion on the floor or in a chair. Ensure your hands are resting comfortably.
Step 2: Settling In Close your eyes gently and take a few deep breaths. Let your breath return to its natural rhythm. Notice the sensation of air entering and leaving your nostrils or the rise and fall of your chest or abdomen.
Step 3: Anchoring Attention As you breathe naturally, choose a point of focus. This could be the sensation of breath, a word you repeat silently, or the visualization of a serene image, like a calm lake.
Step 4: Maintaining Focus Focus on this anchor, gently returning to it whenever your mind has wandered. Do not judge the wandering mind; observe the detour and return to the breath or visualization.
Step 5: Deepening the Practice As you become more absorbed, let the awareness of your anchor permeate your being. Visualize your spiritual essence as that calm, undisturbed lake. Each breath is like a gentle wave that doesn't disturb the lake's tranquility. Imagine your worries as leaves falling onto the surface, floating away without disturbing the deep, calm waters.
Step 6: Closing the Session After 10 minutes or however long you’ve decided to meditate, slowly bring your attention back to the room. Notice the sounds around you and the feeling of your body against the chair or floor. Open your eyes gently.
Step 7: Reflect Take a moment to reflect on the experience and any insights that may have arisen. Resolve to carry this sense of calm and awareness into your day.
Practical tips such as guided meditation apps can be particularly helpful for beginners or when maintaining focus is challenging. These apps provide structured guidance through voice, helping anchor the mind and often incorporating spiritual teachings that enhance the meditative experience. We also offer guided meditations on the Spirit Calling webpage. Visit https://www.spirit-calling-book.com for more information.
Gratitude Journaling
Gratitude journaling is an introspective practice that profoundly affects one’s spiritual journey. By focusing on gratitude, you shift your attention from what is lacking to the abundance already present in your life. Recognizing and appreciating the good fosters a more profound sense of joy and contentment, cornerstones of spiritual well-being.
Here are some ways gratitude journaling can aid spiritual growth:
Developing Positivity: It trains the mind to look for the good each day, even on challenging days, promoting a positive mindset. Cultivating Mindfulness: The practice makes you more present and mindful of the joyous moments in life, grounding you in the here and now. Enhancing Self-Reflection: It encourages you to reflect on your experiences, leading to greater self-awareness and understanding. Increasing Resilience: Acknowledging the good can build emotional resilience, allowing you to better cope with stress and adversity. Nurturing Connections: Gratitude journaling often involves recognizing the role of others in our blessings, which can strengthen relationships and a sense of interconnectedness. Alignment with Spiritual Principles: Many spiritual traditions emphasize gratitude as a virtue; journaling can express this principle and align your daily life with your spiritual values. A detailed example of Gratitude Journaling might be:
Step 1: Create a Restful Environment Before you begin writing, find a quiet and comfortable space. You might light a candle or play soft music to create a serene atmosphere conducive to reflection.
Step 2: Choose a Medium Select a journal that resonates with you. It could be a simple notebook or something more ornate. Using a pen that feels good can also make the process more enjoyable.
Step 3: Reflect on Your Day Take a moment to think about your day. Start by mentally walking through the events that occurred, paying particular attention to the moments that brought you joy or peace.
Step 4: Write with Intention Begin writing down the three things you are grateful for. These can be as simple as the warmth of the sun on your face, a conversation with a friend, or something you accomplished. Write in detail, describing why you are grateful for these experiences and how they made you feel.
For example:
I am grateful for the delicious cup of coffee I had this morning. The rich aroma and the quiet time of reflection allowed me to start my day on a positive note. I am thankful for my daughter's laughter when she told me about her day at school. It reminded me of the joy of childhood and the beauty of seeing the world through her eyes. I appreciate the challenging work task I completed. Although it was demanding, it allowed me to grow and reminded me of my capability to solve problems and learn new things. Step 5: Reflect on the Act of Writing After jotting down your points of gratitude, reflect on the act of writing them. Consider the feeling of gratitude itself and let it fill you, reinforcing a sense of fulfillment and peace.
Step 6: Close with a Grateful Mind As you close your journal, carry the sense of gratitude with you into the rest of your evening or into your sleep. Allow this feeling to be the last thought as you end your day.
Practicing this ritual regularly can transform it into a spiritual discipline that continually enriches your life, helping you recognize and seek out the positive aspects of your existence.
Nourishing the Body Temple
From a Christian perspective, the body is often called the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Therefore, nourishing the body is not merely a physical act but one of spiritual significance. It's a practice of reverence and respect for the divine presence within. Here’s why nourishing the body temple can be essential for spiritual growth:
Stewardship of God's Creation: Christians believe that their bodies are gifts from God, and taking care of them is a form of stewardship. Optimal Functioning: A well-nourished body is more capable of engaging in prayer, meditation, service, and other spiritual practices. Discipline: Making wise food choices can be an act of discipline, a valuable trait in Christian spirituality. Purification: Eating healthily and hydrating is seen as a means of purifying the body, which is believed to affect the soul positively. Honoring God: By taking care of the body, believers are, in essence, honoring God, as the body is considered God's creation and a temple for His spirit. A detailed example of Nourishing the Body Temple might include:
Step 1: Intentional Choices Begin by choosing nourishing and life-giving foods. Choose a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, acknowledging them as provisions from God.
Step 2: Blessing Your Food Before eating, take a moment to bless your food. This can be a simple prayer of gratitude for the nourishment and a request for the food to bless your body and spirit.
Step 3: Mindful Eating Eat slowly and mindfully, recognizing the flavors, textures, and smells. Consider how the food was made, who grew it, and the journey to reach your table.
Step 4: Hydrate with Intention Drink water throughout the day, possibly starting with a glass upon waking. As you drink, please give thanks for the water as a source of life and imagine it cleansing and purifying your body.
Step 5: Reflective Pauses Pause throughout the day to reflect on how your body feels. If you feel energized and healthy, offer a brief word of thanks. Ask for God’s strength and healing if you are unwell or fatigued.
Step 6: Incorporate Fasting Consider incorporating fasting into your routine. Many Christians find that occasional fasting from certain foods can deepen their spiritual awareness and reliance on God.
For example, you might start your day with a breakfast smoothie of leafy greens, fresh berries, a banana, and almond milk. As you prepare it, give thanks to the bounty of the earth and the hands that harvested these ingredients. Before drinking, say a prayer, thanking God for the ability to nourish your body and asking for the health and strength to serve Him throughout the day. As you consume the smoothie, mindfully present the moment and the act of nourishing your body temple.
Seeing the body as an integral part of one's spiritual life, this holistic approach can enhance one's sense of sacredness in everyday acts and lead to more profound spiritual growth and well-being.
Spiritual Study
Spiritual study in Christianity is seen as nourishment for the soul, comparable to how food nourishes the body. It is considered an essential discipline for deepening faith, understanding God's word, and fostering a closer relationship with God. Here are some reasons why spiritual study is crucial for spiritual growth from a Christian perspective:
Deepening Understanding: Delving into spiritual literature, such as the Bible, helps Christians understand God's nature, His will, and His purposes for humanity. Guidance and Wisdom: Christian texts provide guidance and wisdom for living a life that honors God and aligns with His commandments. Fostering Reflection: Spiritual study encourages self-reflection and introspection, prompting believers to consider their lives in light of spiritual truths. Cultivating Faith: Regularly engaging with spiritual content can strengthen faith and encourage it during challenging times. Communion with God: Studying spiritual material is a form of communion with God, as it often involves prayer and meditation on the words read or heard. Equipping for Service: Knowledge gained through spiritual study equips Christians to serve others and spread the teachings of Christianity. A detailed example of Spiritual Study might include:
Step 1: Set Aside Time Designate a specific time each day for spiritual study. This could be early morning, during a lunch break, or evening. Consistency is key.
Step 2: Choose Your Material Select a piece of spiritual literature that resonates with you. For many Christians, this would be the Bible. Alternatively, you might choose a devotional, a book by a respected Christian author, or a podcast that aligns with Christian values. Spirit Calling has several sources for daily devotionals to help you feel closer to God. Most of them are free.
Step 3: Create the Right Environment Find a quiet space where you can read or listen without distractions. Light a candle or have a notebook handy to jot down insights.
Step 4: Pray for Insight Before you begin, ask the Holy Spirit to open your heart and mind to the wisdom you will receive and help you understand how it applies to your life.
Step 5: Engage with the Material Read or listen actively. If you're reading, take it slow; if something strikes you, pause to meditate. You might stop the podcast to reflect on a particularly meaningful point if you're listening.
For example, you might spend your session reading the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). As you read, you reflect on the Beatitudes, considering what it means to be "poor in spirit" or "meek" today. After reading, you write down thoughts on how you can embody these attitudes in your daily interactions.
Step 6: Apply the Learning After your study session, think about how you can apply the insights gained to your life. What practical steps can you take to live out the wisdom you’ve received?
Step 7: Share and Discuss Consider sharing what you’ve learned with others in a study group or with friends and family. This can help to deepen your understanding and encourage others in their spiritual journey.
This process enriches your faith and prepares you to be a light for others, illuminating the path of Christian discipleship through informed action and conversation.
Nature Immersion
Nature immersion from a Christian creation perspective is deeply rooted in the belief that God created the world and everything within it, as depicted in the book of Genesis. Engaging with nature is thus an engagement with God’s creation, which can be a profound spiritual experience. Here are some reasons why this practice can be spiritually enriching:
Experiencing God’s Artistry: Nature is seen as a canvas painted by God, and spending time in nature allows one to experience the beauty of His work directly. Fostering Stewardship: Christians are called to be stewards of the Earth, and immersing in nature reinforces the responsibility to care for it. Finding Solitude with God: Jesus often went to quiet places to pray (Luke 5:16), and Christians may find that solitude in nature provides a powerful setting for prayer and contemplation. Recognizing God’s Power and Majesty: Observing nature's complexity and grandeur can inspire awe and a deeper understanding of God’s power. Encountering God’s Presence: Many believers feel a closer presence of God while surrounded by the work of His hands. Restoring the Soul: Nature’s peace and stillness can be restorative, offering a break from the busyness of modern life, which can be conducive to spiritual reflection and growth. A detailed example of Nature Immersion might include:
Step 1: Intentional Planning Schedule regular time for nature walks, recognizing this practice as a spiritual discipline rather than merely a recreational activity.
Step 2: Entering with Awe As you enter a natural setting, take a moment to stand in awe of the creation around you. Acknowledge that you are stepping into God’s creation, a sanctuary where every element reflects His glory.
Step 3: Engaging the Senses Pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells. Notice the rustling leaves, the patterns of light through the trees, the texture of the earth beneath your feet, and the chorus of wildlife.
Step 4: Prayer and Praise Use this time to offer prayers of thankfulness and praise for the beauty and complexity of the natural world. You might recite Psalms that celebrate creation, like Psalm 19 or Psalm 104.
Step 5: Reflecting on Scripture Bring along a passage of scripture to meditate on during your walk. Consider how the natural surroundings bring new insight into the text.
Step 6: Silent Observation Spend a portion of your time in silence, simply being present and allowing God to speak to you through His creation.
Step 7: Journaling Reflections After your walk, jot down any thoughts, feelings, or revelations you experienced. This can help solidify spiritual insights and remind you of God’s presence.
For instance, while walking through a forest, you might reflect on Matthew 6:26-30, where Jesus speaks about how God cares for the birds of the air and the lilies of the field. As you observe birds in their natural habitat, consider how God also cares for you. Allow the environment's peace to envelop you, reaffirming your trust in God's providence.
This practice aligns you with the spiritual rhythm of life, grounding you in the present moment and the reality of God’s ongoing work in the world. It can help recalibrate your spiritual compass, setting you on a path that resonates with the heartbeat of the Earth and the Creator.
Acts of Loving-Kindness and Grace
Christian acts of kindness are a tangible expression of the love and teachings of Jesus, central to the Christian faith. These actions are viewed as essential to the practice of Christianity and have a profound impact on one’s spiritual walk for several reasons:
Imitating Christ: Jesus is the ultimate example of love and kindness in the Christian faith. Acts of kindness are ways of following His example, as He taught and showed love to others throughout His life. Manifesting Faith: In the Epistle of James, it's stated that faith without works is dead (James 2:26). Acts of kindness are the works that bring faith to life. Fostering Humility: Serving others encourages a posture of humility, an attribute highly regarded in Christianity. Building Community: Kindness helps build a sense of community and unity as described in the New Testament, mirroring the early church's practices. Spiritual Transformation: Engaging in acts of kindness can lead to spiritual transformation, making one more patient, generous, and empathetic. Creating Ripple Effects: Kindness often inspires others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of goodwill. Performing daily gestures of love is a powerful way to grow spiritually because it puts into practice the commandment to love your neighbor as yourself (Mark 12:31). By doing so, Christians develop a heart more in tune with God’s heart.
For example, consider a scenario where you offer to help an elderly neighbor with their groceries. This simple act doesn't just provide physical assistance; it demonstrates the gospel’s call to care for one another. As you help, you can show your neighbor that they are valued and loved, not only by you but also by God. In doing so, you reflect Christ’s love, which can deeply touch the other person's life and enhance your own spiritual growth.
Moreover, an act of kindness can open a deeper conversation or allow one to share one's faith. It can break down barriers and preconceptions, providing a platform for spiritual conversations and connections.
The tapestry of spiritual connectivity woven through kindness reinforces the interconnectedness of all people. As the giver, you may find that your needs—such as the need for purpose, community, or connection—are met while helping others. In giving that we receive and serving, we find the true essence of spiritual growth and fulfillment.
Christian Reflection and Contemplation
Christian reflection and contemplation are deeply embedded in the tradition of spiritual formation and growth. They are akin to spiritual breathing—inhaling God's presence and exhaling self-centeredness. Here’s why these practices are so vital for spiritual growth:
Discerning God’s Presence: Through reflection, Christians become more attuned to the subtle ways God works in their lives, even in seemingly mundane moments. Cultivating Gratitude: By contemplating God’s actions and blessings, believers are often more grateful and aware of the goodness that permeates their lives. Processing Life’s Experiences: Contemplation allows for the mental and spiritual processing of the day’s events, which is crucial for learning from them and seeing them through the lens of faith. Identifying Areas for Growth: Reflective practices can reveal areas where one falls short and needs God's grace, leading to repentance and a deeper desire for personal transformation. Encouraging Stillness and Peace: In a world full of noise and distraction, contemplation fosters a necessary stillness that can lead to peace and a sense of God’s presence. Deepening Understanding: Reflecting on scripture or the day's experiences allows a deeper understanding of God's Word and its application to everyday life. Fostering a Responsive Heart: Contemplation can soften and prepare the heart to respond more to the Holy Spirit’s prompting and guidance. As you end your day with reflection, you might follow these steps to help you grow spiritually:
Step 1: Find a Quiet Place Select a quiet spot where you can be undisturbed. This setting signals your mind and body that it’s time to slow down and reflect.
Step 2: Recollect the Day Revisit the day’s events in your mind, not as a replay for critique but as a canvas to observe God’s brushstrokes.
Step 3: Seek the Holy Spirit’s Guidance Invite the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and reveal what God wants you to learn from the day's events.
Step 4: Examine Interactions and Emotions Consider your interactions and reactions throughout the day. Ask yourself where you saw God in those moments and where you might have missed opportunities to serve Him or others.
Step 5: Contemplate God’s Word Reflect on a piece of scripture that you read during the day. Mull over its meaning and how it applies to what you experienced.
Step 6: Journal Your Insights Write down any insights or convictions that come to you. This can deepen your understanding and provide a record of your spiritual journey.
Step 7: End with Prayer Conclude your time of reflection with prayer, thanking God for His presence, and asking for the grace to grow from what you have learned.
For instance, if you recall a moment of frustration from the day, contemplate what it might reveal about your current spiritual state or God's patience and grace. If you remember a moment of unexpected joy, consider how it might be a gift from God meant to encourage or uplift you.
In this way, contemplation acts as spiritual digestion, helping to assimilate the spiritual nutrients of each day. It's a process that transforms information into wisdom, experiences into lessons, and faith into action.
In weaving these habits into the fabric of your daily life, you'll find they become the threads that draw you closer to your spiritual zenith. Like a lighthouse guiding ships home, these practices promise to lead you to the harbor of inner peace.
Spirituality is not an event as much as a daily practice.
Prayer
Heavenly Spirit that dwells in each of us, In the quiet sanctuary of this moment, I come before You with an open and expectant heart. I ask You, Holy Spirit, Breath of God, to fill this space and my being as I seek to grow closer to You.
Guide me, Holy Spirit, as I sit in stillness each day, meditating upon Your Word and ways. Help me to quiet the noise of the world around me so that I may hear Your soft whispers in the depths of my soul.
When I journal my gratitude, illuminate my mind to recognize the daily bread of Your presence, the beauty of Your creation, and the countless graces You bestow upon me. Let each word I write be an offering of thanksgiving back to You.
Nourish me, Spirit of Wisdom, as I care for the temple of my body, the vessel You have graciously given. In each choice of sustenance, lead me to what brings life, health, and harmony so I may serve You with energy and joy.
In my spiritual studies, be the lamp unto my feet. May the scriptures, wise elders' teachings, and saints' stories come alive through Your inspiration. Transform knowledge into understanding and understanding into a living faith.
As I walk through Your creation, open my eyes to see Your majesty in the intricacies of nature. Let the wind, the trees, the rivers, and the mountains speak to me of Your creativity and care, binding me to You with a profound sense of awe.
In acts of kindness, let me be Your hands and feet, serving others with the love of Christ. May the love I give reflect Your love for me, creating ripples of compassion that extend far beyond my reach.
As I end each day in reflection and contemplation, I illuminate the lessons learned and the growth attained. Help me to internalize the good, repent of my failings, and rest in the assurance of Your forgiveness and love.
Holy Spirit, be my guide in all these practices. Mold, shape, and refine me into a clearer image of Christ. Let my life be a testament to the spiritual journey You have designed, marked by continuous, grace-filled transformation.
In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray, Amen.

Posting this here to give back to this overwhelmingly helpful and active sub. I realize there are idiosyncrasies with SIBO and its permutations, but perhaps someone might glean a modicum of assistance from the treatise below.
Background

• History of IBS-C with worsening constipation, bloating, GERD past 4-8 years
• Lack of gut motility, cause unknown but suspicions are stress, ovebinge eating (not chewing), PPIs, antacids, artificial sweeteners (Splenda, Diet Soda, Gum), aging, and NSAIDs
• Very "clean" diet excepting artificial sweeteners, e.g., lots of salads, raw and cooked vegetables, sashimi, beans, nuts, seeds, high quality protein, if carbs, whole grains. No processed, junk, fried
• Little alcohol, occasional glass or two of good quality wine, beer, or champagne
• Moderately to lightly active, used to run, then jogging, then walking!
• Moderate caffeine intake (coffee)

Catalyst

• Instagram gut-biome tests, got me thinking....
• So bloated constipated that the bowel prep for a colonoscopy was ineffective, such a waste!
• IM doctor recommended SIBO breath test, came back positive for methane

Ineffective Treatments

• Rifamixin - one two week course, ineffective. Discouraged after reading lack of efficacy esp for methane overgrowth here
  • Doctors (saw another primary care and my gastroenterologist in addition to IM) all were against multiple courses of antibiotics for myriad reasons
  • I will give this a chance to have had some positive effect, because maybe it reset things?
• Motility Pro - BID, took on advice of this thread, no change to bowel patterns. No other benefits. Seems harmless though. Found it a bit more expensive than I expected
• Colace Clear - one doctor recommended, knew this wouldn't have an effect, and I was right
• Low FODMAP - very restrictive, noticed no change, so many variables with diet and time to digest that I doubted veracity. I gave it a good shot and even used the Food Marble breath test device with it. The only thing I noticed were spikes if I overate...
• Low Fermentation - I liked this one, but again, ineffective. At least less restrictive than Low FODMAPs and seems to make sense. Reminded me of the bowel prep. Exacerbated constipation
• Increased Fiber - started tracking fiber, noticed that I was getting over 40 grams a day with my standard diet, but my gastro asked that I increase more grains and starches. No real impact that I could discern. Gained a few pounds, probably with the increase in carbs, bloating out of control, ha
• Antimicrobial - took supplements containing things such as oregano oil, artichoke leaf extract, green tea, some pro-motility roots, a few others that I'm blanking on now. These seem fairly harmless and some people might be able to do this more intensively with a holistic doctor, however, I went lite and didn't have an impact that I could discern

Effective Interventions

• Behavioral (chewing/mindful eating) - this sounds so obvious that I'm embarrassed, but I realized I basically inhaled food. I'm unsure from where I got that habit, maybe quaffing down green smoothies in my 30s/Vitamix days, rushed at work, mindlessly chewing on sugar-free gum. Now I take MUCH more time to chew ever bit of food to the best of my ability. I took a a few gut-biome and other related tests and saw that my digestive enzymes were a bit low, so this habit of mindfully eating and chewing apparently aids this process of digestion
• Smaller meals - frankly, I overeat, took too much protein, and it overloads thy gut. I've cut down on portions, instead of volume eating nutritious stuff, I try to eat mindfully what I need or what's available. I'm not eating 6 times a day, just two or three smaller meals and am satiated. I tracked for a while what I was consuming and I was at least 600-1200 over maintenance every day
• Cut out all artificial stuff - this was painful, but after about a month I've lost the craving. I'm consuming less in general and have a sense that my gut biome thanks me for it
• Eliminated PPIs and antacids - I was popping chewy Tums as though it was nobody's business. Now I take them hardly ever, and have a French brand Boiron that produces natural anti-GERD medication on the occasion that I have stomach upset or eructation (usually after a restaurant)
• Vata-dosha diet - this is the weird part, I know, I know, Ayurvedic, it partly fed into the above and below (no pun intended), but I am basically 100% vata, which is known to be uptight, rigorous, dry, constipated, bloated, insomniac, eating too many leafy greens, raw cold things, etc. Now, I try to take more warming foods, more oils, take my time, breathe deeper, no raw, stringy or astringent
• Probiotics - I purchased that organic, coconut kefir that is touted here and feel it made a difference. I take about 3-4 ounces on an empty stomach (after coffee really) when I get my first hunger pangs. It's great! I wanted to reset the gut biome after the antibiotics. Another thing I take, especially since my family is half European, is unfiltered beer on occasion. I wouldn't recommend this as some people have issues with alcohol, but for me, a pint of unfermented beer and I go to the restroom much more regularly. This was somewhat of an epiphany and came up as an idea in one of the gut/food intolerance tests (i.e., I was consuming too many clean things...if that makes sense)
• Yoga - there is a certain centering, grounding and pro-kinetic aspect to vata-balancing yoga that I find supportive. I've always done some yoga, so I consider this more of a support than a change agent in my digestion. In general, increasing mobility seems to be a boon, but not to overdo it, so that one does not overly constrict. I can be anal-retentive literally, so need to unwind to let go

It's my intent that the above might be an aid to someone, and I'll try to update this to see if there's any change going forward. Right now, I have almost ZERO bloating, it's insane, GERD is reduced about 80%, stomach upset reduced about 70%, constipation is still there, but better and ameliorated at least 50%. I had posted a picture before here when I was first diagnosed and my stomach looked like a basketball!
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From the beginning...
Cast (recently updated)

Part 2, Chapter 3

Zander is once again at the Adventurer’s Guild. The once again unnamed adventuring company [1] are still going broke with no jobs on the horizon. As he peruses the notices for missing cats and noisy neighbors, a new notice catches his eye. Egan Marta, of the Marta merchant family, has a very talented daughter with a spark of magic in her. Several years ago she was apprenticed to a mage who runs a small research academy a number of leagues away. She is pretty, smart, and very popular. She enjoys coming back home several times a year, but she hasn’t been in contact in a number of months. In fact, nobody from the academy has contacted the family since the end of winter, and it is nearing harvest time. Egan is looking for someone to go and look in on his daughter, and is prepared to pay 500 gold coins to the person who does.
“She ded.” Novos opines. Zander muses on that for a moment, but the snotty Dragon Force [1] is also at the Guild and is also looking for work. Thinking fast, he talks to Ben and tells her they are taking the job.
The next morning, he, Arthur, and Novos set out for Roondar’s tower [2] where the mage teaches his academy. Felicity Wyndham, having nothing better to do, joins in. Dillium is working on basic theology with her new “apprentice,” and Dalton was up before the sun and is nowhere to be found. The ride is long but not arduous, and the foursome arrives at the small village of Howling Rock in the mid-afternoon. Locals are happy to tell the group where the tower is (“It’s right there. You can plainly see it. It’s not hidden!”), though it is several hundred yards outside town in case there are any more explosions. They do warn that there is a green dragon around who has demanded the village’s gems, books, and pastries. Unfortunately, the village is now out of colored rocks, reading material, and flour. The dragon, if they see it, might be a bit tetchy. “Definitely ded,” says Novos. Several heads nod in agreement.
Leaving their mounts at the small two-room inn, the group makes its way down the gravel path to the tower. The path is clear and open, though all around the grounds are covered with a thick carpet of vibrant green vegetation. The leafy vines have grown up the sides of the tower, nearly obliterating any distinctive markings other than the top of the crenelations around the roof. There appear to be no windows or any other openings other than the front door, which is closed. Approaching, Zander suggests that they could get a very tall ladder and climb up to the roof if the door is locked. That idea is voted down by the party members who recognize that the very small village is very unlikely to have siege ladders long enough to scale a tall tower. Arthur, the pragmatist, simply opens the door, eliminating the need for a ladder at all.
Inside is a dining table that runs lengthwise down the large open room, with benches on either side. A halfling wearing a blue robe with yellow embroidery is just closing a cupboard on the opposite side of the room. “Greetings!” Arthur booms.
“Yes, yes, just leave your tribute on the table and get out,” the halfling says in a bored tone.
“We have brought no tribute. We are—” Arthur starts.
“No tribute? The you’re useless. Go away.” The halfling finally turns around.
“We are here to see Alina Marta.” Arthur replies.
“She’s not taking visitors. Now leave.”
“We just want to see her to make sure she is all right. Let us see her and we’ll leave.”
“She’s still not taking visitors. Now. Go. Away.”
Zander and Novos sneak off through an archway to see if anyone else is around who is more pliable. The archway leads to an empty, if well-appointed kitchen, and a well-stocked larder with fresh pastries. Novos starts to take one, but Zander stares him down and Novos leaves pastry-less. Felicity remains in the doorway, watching.
By this time, Arthur has crossed the room and is just out of arm’s reach of the halfling. “We are here to see Alina and we won’t leave until we do so,” he says. He probably doesn’t mean to sound menacing, but the halfling decides otherwise.
“That’s just like you tall ones. You bust into our home unannounced and unwanted, and start making demands. For the last time, get out!” He pulls a wand from a pocket of his robe (because if you are a mage, you are allowed to have pockets in your robe), and he begins making the first part of a gesture, probably meaning to hold the last part of the spell. The weave moves, and the halfling falls into a deep slumber, slumping against the wall. Felicity looks around for who could possibly have done that, a completely innocent look on her face. Arthur scoops up the halfling and places him gently on one of the benches to rest.
While everyone crowds around a faintly glowing ring in the floor of the corner of the room, it is Novos who works out the command word to use the teleport circle. Stepping into the circle, he utters a command phrase (“It’s ‘second floor’” he tells everyone) and disappears from view. One by one the others do the same.
***
One by one, the party arrives in a small foyer. There's a comfy chair and a couple of windows, though the windows are both very much overgrown with verdant foliage. A hallway system runs through the floor, but the team elects to take the hall ahead of them. Novos carefully checks the first door for traps. He’s absolutely sure there are none. He thinks about picking the lock, but instead simply tries the door handle. It swings open without a sound. Inside is a guest bedroom, slightly dusty and obviously not recently used. The next room is a bathroom, complete with a bath tub with runes carved into the rim. Nobody is interested. Down the hall are two dusty and obviously bare rooms, ready for students, if there are ever again students. The party seems generally unconcerned about any of this, and it turns out they are simply looking for bodies. They have convinced themselves that Alina is dead and … whatever comes after that.
Abruptly Felicity says, “I don’t think there’s anyone on this floor. I’m sure there’s someone on the next floor, however.” Nobody asks how she knows this suddenly, but they do provide only a cursory glance through the remaining four bedrooms. One is dusty and has expensive pretty outfits. “Alina’s room” they agree, and the dust reinforces her 'ded-ness'. Novos sees what appears to be a journal on her writing desk. He doesn’t read it, doesn’t page through it. He simply scoops it up and tucks it away. The other three bedrooms are not dusty, but have no bodies in them, so nobody does more than poke their head in.
“It’s ‘first floor’ or ‘third floor’” Novos announces as he steps into the circle and is gone.
***
The third floor is obviously where all the real teaching goes on. There is a large summoning circle on the floor, a couple of tables with mixtures and fluids in odd vials, and a number of pieces of sculpture on plinths or shelves around the room. Novos, like a moth to flame, is drawn to the table where he scoops up a random assortment of tubes and vials of green liquid. Arthur steps through one of the two archways and sees a library and study room. A girl is sat at a table deep in study.
“Excuse me, we are here to see Alina,” Arthur booms across the room. The startled girl jumps to her feet.
“What are you doing here? You can’t be here. Get out!”
“Just let us see Alina and we will go.”
“So you just break into the tower and make demands? GET OUT!”
Arthur, walking closer, grabs the girl by the shoulder. “We are here on behalf of—” he starts, but he never finishes.
“GO!” She screams, and the weave shifts again. A silver dart slams into Arthur’s head, but it seems to pass harmlessly through, disappearing on the other side. Arthur lets her go. Novos and Felicity come into the library, but Zander comes through the door on the other end of the room. “Hey, why is everyone so hostile?” he asks.
The weave shifts again, and strands of webbing shoot out in all directions, ensnaring most of the party (except somehow, Zander). Again, the weave shifts and the girl slumps over, instantly asleep. As she loses consciousness, the webs dissipate, and Arthur catches he before she falls. He gently sits her in one of the comfy chairs as the team looks at each other and around the room. Shrugging, Novos goes to look at the summoning circle, but he sees nothing he recognizes. He also examines the teleport circle, but reports that the circle doesn’t go to any other floors.
Felicity looks at a door that appears to simply rest against a blank wall. The door has carvings on it that represent different beasts in their natural elements. As she approaches, four giant boars appear between her and the door. They don’t attack, but their beady little red-rimmed eyes glare at everyone in hatred. Zander wonders if they are real or illusory since they just appeared out of nowhere. He tries bouncing a coin off them, and it does bounce off, so he decides they are real. At a loss, the team looks for a key or a knob or something. Felicity gets the idea to grab one of the boar statues in the room, and approaching the door, the boars let her pass. She sits the sculpture on a small alcove in the door, and the boars disappear. “Huzzah!” Four dire wolves appear. “Shi…..ps” Everyone else gets the picture, and finds the wolf statue, then the ape statue, then the troll statue each in turn as they appear. Finally, the trolls disappear and Felicity pulls open the door only to find a blank wall. Dejected, she turns around to find the room rapidly filling with a white fluffy cloud that obscures everything. It appears the girl woke up. Desperate, Felicity prods the wall to see what the next magical effect is. Apparently it’s an illusion as her hand disappears through the “wall.” Calling out to everyone else, she steps through the doorway. When everyone else has made it through, the door closes behind them.
***
This floor appears to be designed to work best for a gnome or halfling or someone short. The ceilings are normal height, but the scattered furniture (comfy chair and table just close enough to place your pipe or glass of something, work benches, and so on) are all sized for someone half the height of the four humans. Another summoning circle occupies the center of the floor. This one is much more intricate than the previous one, as befits a mage, rather than apprentices. There’s also another teleport circle in one corner, though nobody thinks to look at it. Another set of workbenches adorns one wall, and a fireplace (without a chimney) adorns one interior wall. Seeing nothing of immediate interest, the team steps through a doorway into what is obviously a bedroom with well-designed and sumptuous furniture. A tapestry covers one wall, and a thick rug lies on the floor. A dressing table, a chest at the end of the bed, and a book shelf of nick-knacks complete the set. Seeing nothing to interest them, they go through the other door. Inside is a private library, or what is left of one. Most of the shelves are emptied out, but the workbench has a variety of colored vials of liquids, and another chest. Novos, again drawn, examines the lot, but not seeing any that were bright blue enough or sparkly enough, moves on. Felicity examines the shelves, but notes that none of the books appear to be terribly interesting, with no books on magical history or structure. That doesn’t stop Novos from trying to scoop a bunch of scrolls into his bag. Felicity raises one eyebrow, and makes a motion that is most definitely a “put them back.” Reluctantly, Novos does.
Instead, he goes over to the chest. As he looks to see if it is trapped, his fingers brush the surface and are stuck fast. With a yelp, he tries to pull his hand away, but he’s definitely stuck. Novos disappears briefly, in a way that Arthur can no longer ignore as a chance occurrence, but he reappears when he realizes that he’s still stuck in either form [3]. Zander comes over to help pull him off, but before he gets there, Novos stabs the chest with his dagger. That too gets stuck to the top. Everyone springs into action. Arthur grabs the back of Novos’ jacket and heaves. Felicity stares intently at the chest and abruptly an arc of lightning shoots out from her outstretched hand, connecting her to the chest. Electricity pulses across the arc, and the chest opens it’s lid….er, mouth. A long blue tongue snakes out and grabs Novos by the leg and tries to bite down with now apparent large teeth. Zander swings his sword, and though he deals a critical blow to the chest’s tongue, it isn’t enough to sever the tongue or get the tongue to let go. Novos has the presence of mind to grab his bow, nock an arrow, and shoot point blank at the chest, though he apparently does not have the skill to actually hit the box. Arthur smacks the chest with his sword, Felicity pulses electricity down the arc, and finally Zander smacks the chest again. Although the tongue stops pulling Novos and the lid snaps shut, it isn’t enough for Novos to be able to hit it point blank with a second arrow. Arthur once again pulls Novos away from the chest and Zander retrieves Novos’ favorite dagger.
“Well, Novos, at least we didn’t have to cut your hand off to get you unstuck!” Zander says in a way that is supposed to make Novos feel better, but ends up making him realize that Zander might have cut his hand off to get him unstuck.
The party walks back through the bedroom on their way out. Novos sees the wooden large chest at the end of the bed, where someone might store linens or spare blankets. Novos assumes it's another chest out to get him and launches an arrow at it. Somehow he manages to explode the wooden chest, leaving linens and spare blankets flung around mixed with bits of wood.
With nothing else to see and no more chests to kill, the party opens the door back into the apprentices’ workroom.
End of Chapter 3.
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[1] Last Chapter
[2] The Orb of Envy by Jeff Stevens Games
[3] see Chapter 22 and following for how all this disappearing started.

In the world of indoor gardening, lighting is king, and finding the right glow can turn a mediocre yield into a bountiful harvest. The best 5x5 LED grow lights promise not only to brighten your garden but also to optimize growth with their spectrum and efficiency. These lights have revolutionized how we nurture our plants, offering a blend of power and energy savings that traditional bulbs can't match. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, selecting the right LED grow light is crucial for your indoor garden's success. Get into my reviews below to discover the top picks that will take your gardening game to the next level.

1. Spider Farmer SF4000 LED Grow Lights

The Spider Farmer SF4000 stands out with its energy-efficient Samsung LM301B diodes, which are a game-changer for both novice and experienced growers. These high-performance LEDs ensure deep canopy penetration, making them perfect for dense grow spaces. What's truly impressive is their ability to support plants through every growth stage, thanks to the full spectrum lighting.
For those managing larger or more complex indoor gardens, the convenience of app-controlled dimmability and the ability to connect multiple lights cannot be understated. This feature simplifies adjusting light intensity across different areas of your grow space without the need to manually tweak each unit. It's particularly useful in grow tents or grow rooms where uniform light distribution is crucial for healthy plant development.
Moreover, the waterproof design of these led grow lights adds an extra layer of durability. Whether you're a home grower experimenting in a humid basement or a professional cannabis grower optimizing conditions in large-scale operations, this feature ensures your investment is protected against accidental water exposure.

2. VIVOSUN VS4000 LED Grow Light

What makes the VIVOSUN VS4000 LED Grow Light stand out is its remarkable balance of low electricity consumption and high energy efficiency. This light uses only 400W of power but is equipped with top-of-the-line Samsung LM301 diodes. These diodes are known for their ability to deliver bright, effective light without using up a lot of electricity. This means you can grow your plants indoors without worrying about a high electric bill.
Another great feature of this grow light is the thoughtful inclusion of grow glasses and US-patented rope hangers. The grow glasses protect your eyes from the bright light, making it comfortable to check on your plants anytime. The rope hangers are sturdy and safe, allowing you to adjust the height of the light easily as your plants grow.
The VIVOSUN VS4000 also boasts a fanless design for quiet operation, making it perfect for indoor use where noise can be a concern. Plus, with a 5-year after-sales service guarantee, you can be confident in your investment knowing that help is available if you encounter any issues.

3. Phlizon FD4500 450W Plant Led Grow Light

The most special thing about the Phlizon FD4500 450W Plant Led Grow Light is its daisy chain dimming function. This feature stands out because it lets you connect up to 50 lights together without needing a separate controller. Imagine having a big garden and being able to manage all your lights with just one control. It makes things so much simpler and efficient!
What's more, this light technology is not just about convenience. The Phlizon FD4500 also shines when it comes to efficiency and yield per wattage. This means that for every watt of power it uses, you get a lot of light spread that helps your plants grow better. If you're looking to save money in the long run, this led light is a cost-effective choice for growers.
Another great point about these led bars is their versatility. They are designed to be suitable for both vegetative and flowering stages of plant growth. You can adjust the light intensity depending on what your plants need at the time. Whether you have leafy greens or blooming flowers, this light has got you covered.

Buyer's Guide

When you're diving into the world of indoor gardening, choosing the right 5x5 LED grow light can make all the difference. It's not just about making your plants glow; it's about nurturing them at every stage of their growth. The key is to find a light that matches your plants' needs while being energy efficient.
First off, let's talk energy efficiency and spectrum. Different plants have different needs depending on their growth stage. For instance, seedlings love blue light, while flowering plants thrive under red light. A great LED grow light offers a full spectrum, mimicking natural sunlight to support your plants from seedling to harvest. It’s like giving your plants a balanced diet!
Now, onto some cool features you might not have thought about but definitely need: dimmability and accessories. Dimmable lights are game-changers because they allow you to adjust the intensity based on your plant's stage or even save energy when full power isn't necessary. And who doesn't love extras? Look for lights that come with hanging kits or protective glasses – these little additions offer great long-term value.
Lastly, think about the future. Your garden might start small, but who says it won't grow? Check the coverage area of the grow light and see if you can link multiple units together. Scalability means your lighting setup can grow as your garden does, saving you from buying entirely new systems down the line.

Summary

I've walked you through the top 5x5 LED grow lights, focusing on the Spider Farmer SF4000, VIVOSUN VS4000, and Phlizon FD4500. Each has its perks, from energy efficiency to boosting your plants' growth. I also threw in a buyer's guide to help you nail the perfect pick for your green friends. Choosing the right LED grow light makes all the difference in your indoor garden's success. Trust me, I've seen it firsthand. So, if you're serious about giving your plants the best light, consider these options. They're not just good; they're game-changers.
Now it's your turn to shine. Dive in, pick the LED grow light that fits your garden like a glove, and watch your plants thrive. Got questions? Drop them below. Let's grow this community with vibrant discussions and shared experiences. Your green thumb adventure starts now. Let's light it up!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Spider Farmer SF4000 stand out among other LED grow lights?

The Spider Farmer SF4000 is notable for its high energy efficiency and uniform canopy penetration, thanks to Samsung LM301B diodes. It also offers a dimmable design and full-spectrum lighting.

How does the VIVOSUN VS4000 LED Grow Light support plant growth?

With Samsung LM301 diodes for high efficiency and a sunlike full spectrum, the VIVOSUN VS4000 supports all growth stages efficiently, consuming only 400W of electricity.

Can the Phlizon FD4500 cover a large growing area?

Yes, the Phlizon FD4500 can cover up to 6x6ft in Veg stage and 5x5ft in flower stage, making it suitable for larger indoor gardens.

Are these LED grow lights easy to adjust according to plant needs?

Yes, all three models feature dimmable functions or adjustment knobs/ballasts, allowing you to easily tailor light intensity to your plants' requirements.

What warranty options do these LED grow lights offer?

The Spider Farmer SF4000 and VIVOSUN VS4000 come with warranties (Spider Farmer's specifics not stated, but VIVOSUN offers a 5-year service), while Phlizon provides a 3-year warranty plus a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Do any of these LED grow lights require additional cooling systems?

No, both the Spider Farmer SF4000 and VIVOSUN VS4000 are designed for low heat emission. The VIVOSUN model specifically mentions no fans are needed due to its low noise and heat design.

What is below are rough notes taken by the author over the course of years. This is not indicative of what you should do, especially cutting out carbohydrates completely, but an example of what the author has done and a rough draft of the steps listed above:
-Your full Baker Protocol:
There’s an algorithm to losing body weight via intaking less calories than the body used, but this may be an algorithm to reduce body weight, hopefully body fat, without counting calories. This protocol is not only to help the average person lose weight, but can help someone already lean become shredded.
A high carb diet is partially what is causing obesity and poor health in the modern western man.
1.Absolutely do not have any carbs after 10 hours to bedtime, as having carbs after 10 hours to bedtime kills your sleep; you do not want any significant fluctuation in blood sugar while you’re trying to go to sleep, meaning you want all carbs “out of your system” by bedtime. Also, do not have a large amount of carbs with brunch, meaning don’t have more than 1/2 BMR carbs, as too many will still be in your system by bedtime and cause you to sleep poorly. So many studies show that eating too close to bedtime and/or having carbs “in your system” (affecting your blood sugar) really hurt sleep.
2.Don’t add any salt or added sodium to your food and only have food that is low in sodium, as having it be more bland will help you not overeat, and it being more palatable / hyper-palatable will make you overeat. Studies in mice and people have shown that mice and people overeat when food is more palatable. Don’t have added sodium, as it will make you retain water and make you wake up to pee, will make food more palatable, and may make you overeat. Studies show that salt increases hunger in humans and mice, with a mice study showing that mice who had salt added to their food became obese compared to the mice who didn’t. Hunter gatherers would have consumed very little sodium relative to modern man, only about 1,000 mg. Also, having added sodium (salt) will make you retain water and look fatter and puffier. Also, added sodium hurts your sleep by making you wake up to pee and drink water, but also added sodium makes your body pee out the water you have to eliminate the excess sodium, then, you have less water in your body, so your body can’t let go of heat as effectively, so you overheat and wake up thermally hot and feeling stimulated, which makes you unable to quickly go back to sleep; this will affect you much more the leaner you get.
3.Have a brunch meal at 13 to 12 hours to bedtime (a bit earlier if you really want, or a bit later, like at a typical lunch time, if you must). Start brunch with an amount of a whole food carb that doesn’t make you feel shitty that you’re okay with, ideally 1/3 BMR carb calories, then have 1/3 BMR calories from a healthy fat (to keep your hormones in check), like avocados, coconuts, butter, etc, then have lean meat to satiety, and make sure to DRINK PLENTY OF WATER while eating, as this will make you satiated on less calories; you must have the lean meat to true satiety, as otherwise you’ll be hungry later on. If hungry later on (but before 4 hours to bedtime), chug water, and if chugging water doesn’t work, have more lean meat; the lean meat may not sound good to eat, but just start eating it and you’ll eventually eat enough that you’re no longer hungry. MAKE SURE TO STAY HYDRATED AND DRINK ENOUGH WATER; thirst can mimic hunger, and only force yourself to eat more lean meat when you’re not thirsty in the slightest. Make sure to drink a lot of water while eating the lean meat, especially if it’s dry. Absolutely do not eat after 4 (5 if you can manage it) hours to bedtime, not even a bite of food, as anything will hurt your sleep; if you get hungry around this time, go for a walk. Make sure to eat enough green leafy vegetables during your brunch (count them towards your carbs), as a study showed that overweight women found sticking to a caloric restriction diet much easier when taking a multivitamin. Make sure to avoid “shitty” carbs, meaning carbs that will make you feel shitty due to plant defense chemicals; for your carbs, basically only have fruit, as ripe fruit doesn’t have plant defense chemicals because the plant “wants” you to eat the fruit so the seeds can be spread. Also, avoid any and all forms of added sodium, even during your brunch meal, as not only can having added sodium later disrupt your sleep, but you feel better, feel less bloated, stay better hydrated, and look leaner without added sodium. Eating to satiety earlier in the day and getting the majority of your calories earlier in the day will be amazing for your sleep, look at Bryan Johnson, the longevity guy, who gets sleep scores of 99% and does brunch omad. Eating a lot of carbs during the day makes you feel like shit the next day and makes you over-consume water, so this is another good reason to titrate down carbs. GOING LOW CARB MAKES YOU FEEL WAY BETTER PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY; CARBS ARE LIKE A STIMULANT AND MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE SHIT OVER THE COURSE OF A FEW DAYS. CARBS ARE LIKE A DRUG WITH A STIMULATING EFFECT, TOLERANCE, COMEDOWN, AND WITHDRAWAL.
4.Gradually increase the amount of insoluble fiber you eat, as much as you can; the end goal is to get full on insoluble fiber before you start eating anything else. Our hunter gatherer ancestors ate on average over 100 grams of insoluble fiber a day, mostly from cellulose, so definitely get up to at least this much and try to gradually bring it up. The point of gradually increasing instead of jumping to that amount is because going from low fiber to high fiber can cause GI symptoms. For example, you started off with 1/2 cup of oat fiber, then brought it up to a bit over 1 cup oat fiber, now you’re going to do 1.5 cup oat fiber. Our ancient East African hunter gatherer ancestors for sure ate a diet very high in protein and insoluble fiber. You must eat a diet very high in insoluble fiber. It makes sense that insoluble fiber slows down digestion faster than soluble fiber, as insoluble fiber is much larger as far as mass goes excluding water. For example, you can down 3/4 cup of oat fiber (pure insoluble fiber) no problem, but there is no chance in hell that you could down 3/4 cup psyllium husk (almost purely soluble fiber), as it would expand too much due to water. Your diet must be high in protein and insoluble fiber, as soluble fiber slows digestion (to a much lesser degree) but makes your sleep shit due to it holding water, and fat slows digestion but is very high in calories and will make you overeat, so don’t eat more fat than is necessary for hormone production, and insoluble has the benefit of not having calories, and protein has the benefit of suppressing your hunger. It may be a bit gross, but consuming a lot of insoluble fiber makes your stool hard, which is ideal and consistent as far as evolution goes. On 3/28/24, 3/29/24, and many, many other days, you had 400 cals sunflower seeds, 600 cals whey protein, and 525 cals sugar mixed with 788 cals peanut butter for brunch then nothing after and got very hungry later in the day, but on 3/30/24 you mixed the whey protein with 2 tbsp psyllium husk and had 1 cup oat fiber after eating and weren’t hungry at all, you were actually quite full the rest of the day.
5.As mentioned above, gradually increase cardio once at zero carbs. Make this cardio fasted, meaning do it in the morning before you have eaten, as that will burn more fat (it’s not that calories in calories out doesn’t apply to this, it’s that you will burn body fat while doing the cardio instead of the nutritional fat you would have eaten earlier, so you will consume less calories to compensate). Do this cardio on top of the prolonged intense alternating cardio to exhaustion, like going for a mix between jogging and walking after doing the hard cardio earlier.
6.Follow a hard resistance training program that focuses on hypertrophy, as having muscle makes you look way better and makes you burn more calories. Consider doing your workout in the morning fasted, as that will keep you from being nauseous and having GI symptoms, and consider having electrolytes. Do a PPL routine where you pick a weight that will let you get 12 to 15 reps on your first set, then do continuous sets to failure with around a 20 second rest between sets (you can take longer for heavy compound movements like squats), and do sets until you literally cannot physically push your muscles to the point of burning, which will probably be 6+ sets. You must go to absolute failure, as the adaptive response for muscle growth happens only in the last few reps to failure. Feel free (you’re actually encouraged if you can) to do supersets, as it’s more time efficient. Do one exercise per body part. On leg day, do quads (either single leg leg extensions, squat jumps, or shoulder width barbell squats), hamstrings (either hamstring curls, wide stance barbell squats, or upright on the ground (not treadmill) sprints), glutes (either hip thrusts, single leg body weight hip thrusts with arms propping self up for greater range of motion, or wide stance barbell squats), and abs (either dragon flies or weighted machine crunches. On push day, do chest (pec flies), shoulders (lateral raises), and triceps (standing or laying skull crushers, preferably with 2 dumbbells). On pull day, do upper / middle back (rows; first do single arm to failure, then immediately double arm to failure), lats (either lat pull-downs or pull-ups), biceps (curls), and kettlebell swings for lower back, traps, and more cardio. Work out calves 4 days a week via running / cardio. Make sure you’re sleeping amazingly, as great sleep will let you push yourself very hard in your workout.
7.Do prolonged intense alternating cardio to exhaustion at least 4 times a week (preferably more), as it will keep you healthier and keep your insulin and leptin sensitivity high; THIS IS VITAL FOR FAT LOSS. Strongly preferably, do your cardio in the morning sometime before eating, as doing it after eating can make you nauseous and work less hard. A good version of this is putting a treadmill on a 15 degree incline and putting the speed at running speed (7.5 mph is what the author started with, then once it wasn’t intense enough he increased it to 8 mph, it should be close to a sprint), then run on it until you literally can’t anymore, put your feet on the sides, rest for a a bit until you catch your breath a bit, repeat until absolutely dead and close to throwing up or passing out. Have a rest period in between cardio runs just long enough to slightly catch your breath but not long enough that your respiratory rate goes back to normal, but just to where you feel like you’re not struggling to catch a breath; this should be around 30 seconds to 1 minute. Another good version is pick a distance, sprint that distance, jog half that distance back, walk the other half, repeat until absolutely dead and close to throwing up or passing out. YOU MUST GO TO ABSOLUTE EXHAUSTION, to the point of not being able to do more sets of running. HARD HARD CARDIO DONE CONSISTENTLY IS VITAL FOR FAT LOSS, as it decreases your appetite and makes you more leptin and insulin sensitive. Cardio is also absolutely vital for health (cardiopulmonary, skin, other organs, literally everything), and it may be good to prevent hair loss too. Having a heavier body mass makes cardio harder, which would making chasing down food (prey) harder, this, that we find lean to be beautiful, and that lean is way more healthy are evidence as to that we should be lean. Do your cardio in the morning, as doing it with food in your system will make you throw up before it’s time to stop. The cardio is going to be mentally tough, but just do it and your body will be so thankful: you’ll suffer the pain of discipline or the pain of regret, and the pain of regret is much worse.
8.Do whatever you can to get good sleep. Not getting enough sleep will make you much much more hungry and overeat a ton, which will cause fat gain, and it will also cause you to become lethargic after eating protein. A good amount of sleep will raise your testosterone, which will suppress your appetite. It’s possible that some people find weight loss very difficult due to not sleeping enough and possibly not getting enough protein. Don’t have any added sodium throughout the day, as you will be waking up to pee and waking up thirsty throughout the night if you do, which will ruin your sleep, but also your body will create urine to flush out sodium, which will cause you to be dehydrated and also hurt your sleep (this affects you more the leaner you get, as a very lean body can hold on to less water than a fat body). Don’t have any carbs later in the day. Follow a low soluble fiber diet, but feel free to eat a lot of insoluble fiber, as our ancient hunter gatherer ancestors diet was probably high in insoluble fiber ie cellulose (soluble fiber hold water in the GI tracts and makes you wake up to pee a lot, similar to sodium; even though vegetables (that are high in soluble fiber, like squash) are filling, the effect they have on your sleep is not worth it); you don’t have to outright avoid food containing soluble fiber, but don’t eat low calorie vegetables extremely high in soluble fiber and don’t supplement with soluble fiber. Wean down carbs, don’t have more than 1/3 BMR carbs, and have your carbs earlier in the day rather than later. Don’t eat after 4 hours to bedtime. Don’t drink water or anything else after 3 hours to bedtime (get cold before bedtime, it will help you not consume water and also help your sleep, and make sure you’re very hydrated throughout the day so you aren’t thirsty later). Don’t consume any stimulants. Have your sleeping environment be cool, dark, comfy, and quiet. Go to bed and wake up around the same time every day. Don’t consume anything including water within 3 hours of bedtime. If you find yourself waking up too early, go to bed earlier (I feel the best when I shoot for a bit over 9 hours of sleep). Don’t be too cold or too hot before or during sleeping, as doing so will wake you up; if you must, you would MUCH rather be cold while sleeping than hot, as our body temp must lower by a couple degrees to get the best sleep.
9.Feel free to tan, as a tanned body looks much more toned and a tanned face looks much more beautiful (you got way more attention and got hit on way more when tanning with a tanning bed and melanotan).
10.Avoid food that makes you feel shitty, refined sugar, and refined seed oils. For example, what makes the author feel shitty is high histamine foods like canned tuna or meat that has been in the fridge for too long. Refined sugar is self explanatory. Some seed oils are better than others, like extra virgin olive, avocado, and coconut are good, but besides these, stick to animal based fat sources, like butter, tallow, and lard. If you eat them feel lethargic or shitty after, examine the food you had for lectins, oxalates, or histamines.
11.You must eat enough daily, else your sleep and mood will be terrible and you won’t stick to the protocol. Make sure to eat brunch to true satiety. Having too large of a caloric deficit for too many days will start to make you lethargic, anxious, depressed, have bad sleep, etc. Because of this, ensure that you are eating to true satiety daily and eating more than once a day if needed. As long as you gradually increase cardio and protein, you’ll get lean while staying feeling okay.
12.Here are the tenants to for sure follow: do whatever you can to get great sleep every night, have a very high protein and insoluble fiber intake, increase your cardio, don’t have any carbs after brunch, don’t have food after 4 hours to bedtime, eat only 1/3 BMR carbs and eat them only early in the day, eat only 1/3 BMR fat during the day, eat only lean meat after your carbs and fat, chug water when hungry and only eat when drinking water isn’t working, do some form of resistance training, do hard cardio, and avoid food that makes you feel shitty. These things may be hard to follow in the beginning, but once you do them for long enough, they will become habit and will be mindlessly easy to keep doing.
Optional rules (more like ideas):
14.Possibly fast in the morning as long as you can, so you’re pushing your first meal to be later, but don’t eat after 5 hours to bedtime.
15.If addicted to caffeine, consider slowly titrating down then stopping, as any amount of caffeine may hurt sleep. Caffeine also may hurt productivity; you’re trading a small bit of euphoria for a decreased mood and motivation after it wears off. This won’t be the case for everyone, but it may be wise to experiment titrating down to zero or a lower level (titrating is way less painful than going cold turkey), and definitely don’t have coffee after 12 hours to bedtime.
16.Look into getting thermally hot (layer up, drink hot water, do cardio) to the point of sweating when hungry to see if it suppresses it (there’s evidence people consume less calories when in a hot environment); maybe it will work by activating your SNS?
Evidence for high protein high fat low carb:
-We are designed as hunter gatherers to search out our local fruit supplies and wait until the end of summer for the fruit to ripen and THEN GORGE OURSELVES UPON IT TO METABOLIZE IT TO FAT FOR WINTER HIBERNATION.
-Low fat diets lower testosterone and libido and make you feel shitty, so low fat isn’t the way to go, protein is the most satiating, is found in all the game our ancestors hunted via persistence hunting, and high protein makes you retain muscle, so low protein isn’t the way to go, and high carb makes you feel shitty, ruins your sleep, makes you over-consume calories, and we wouldn’t have had access to the carbs we have nowadays, so high carb isn’t the way to go.
-Fat and protein don’t make you feel gross like carbs do.
-Eating too many carbs makes you hyper-thirsty even if your urine is clear due to your body trying to eliminate the sugar from your blood.
-Cutting on a high fat low carb diet keeps your libido and energy levels way better than if you were to cut with high carb.
-On 12/5/23, you had 1200 cals instant rice, then threw up about 2 hours later, and it was a TON of stomach acid, like your throat was very sore, yet when you’ve thrown up many hours after eating fat and protein, it feels like there’s hardly any stomach acid relative to the rice.
-Higher protein intake is shown to be better for muscle growth and maintenance, both advantageous.
-We evolved to throw spears and run long distances, both for hunting.
-Something hunted megafauna to extinction, and it was almost certainly humans.
-Doing a low fat diet may crash testosterone and libido.
-It’s shown that our ancestors consumed more calories from fat and protein than carbs.
-Carbs before agriculture were very fibrous and low calorie, not anything close to our modern carbs.
-Joe Rogan gets hella lean and says he feels the best by far on a carnivore diet.
-Remember the absolutely jacked shredded old guy at the GI section during your clinicals who said he only did keto and fasting.
-Eating high protein in the absence of high carb or high fat makes you feel like shit, and you know ancient hunter gatherers didn’t eat high carb, so you need to eat high fat. (Actually it doesn’t as evidenced by 3/31/24 and other days when you have 1/3 BMR carbs, 1/3 BMR fat, and the rest lean chicken breast and felt great and productive).
-The megafauna that we used to hunt were very high in fat.
-Disguised Toast lost a ton of fat doing cardio and cutting carbs.
-Humans evolved to not have hair so we can sweat better when chasing and running down prey, this is also why we evolved bigger glute muscles.
-Another reason to do high fat low carb keto is this: we are meant to be very lean, as that is what we find beautiful, but getting very lean on a high to moderate carb diet makes libido and whatnot tank, but getting very lean on a high fat diet keeps libido and those hormones up, therefore we are meant to do a high fat diet.
Misc:
-The best way to increase insoluble fiber is oat fiber. Another way is to replace the carbs you eat with things like cabbage or carrots or things of that nature.
-In the Minnesota starvation experiment, they kept them on a super low calorie diet for around 6 months, which is far different from shorter term water fasting. Layne Norton said getting to 8% body fat was no problem, but getting from 8% to 3% was a nightmare.
-The reason you used to overeat at work and not at home was because you restricted too hard and didn’t eat enough fiber while at home.
Reasons high carb isn’t good:
-Almost all high carb foods make you feel like shit, except fruit, but fruit in hunter gatherer days didn’t have nearly as many calories as modern fruit does.
-Many people have “cured” autoimmune conditions that were previously debilitating by eliminating all carbs and going carnivore.
-You feel like and sleep like dogshit when doing high carb.
-Almost all our modern carbs are things our hunter gatherer ancestors wouldn’t have had access to either due to location or genetic engineering. Modern humans consume way more carbs and the carbs we consume are much more calorically dense, lower fiber, and high on the glycemic index.
-If you want to find enjoyment that doesn’t involve drugs like kratom or alcohol, stay productive and focus on goals, or if you do need to relax, do it in a way that doesn’t involve drugs. Rather than have a night of taking kratom and watching TV, spend it watching a movie with a lover while giving each other massages.
Rules taken out:

1. Avoid having your meat eaten at brunch be too lean, and avoid having your food be too high in fiber, as being too high in either of these makes you lethargic (basically fatty meat and ripe fruit). Either cook your meat in a lot of fat or dip it in fat before putting it in your mouth, as going too high protein and not either high fat or high carb has been proven to make you feel lethargic, as it has done many times. On 12/10/23, you woke up feeling amazing, but then you ate brunch that had too much protein and you were lethargic for the rest of the day. Remember Joe Rogan saying you have to add fat on the keto diet or you feel like shit. The reason high protein makes one feel sluggish is not due to gluconeogenesis but because it reduces ketone production. Also, we find cooked fat very palatable, whereas cooked lean meat is not very palatable, so this is evidence that we are meaning to eat high fat. While titrating down carbs, have at least 1/3 BMR calories from fat, but you must have a good amount of protein as well for satiation, as eating just fat will leave you hungry and craving carbs.

Ideas:
-Ancient East African hunter gatherers for sure age a diet very high in protein, but eating high protein during the day in lieu of a lot of carbs or fats makes you lethargic and sleepy, so possibly eat a bunch of protein a few hours before bed and you may sleep better and be much less hungry the next day; this will also give you a way to chill and relax at the end of the day. Have this protein be lean meat, as protein powder has a lot of added sodium. Feel free to eat a lot of fiber with this protein, ie a lot of low calorie high fiber non starchy green leafy vegetables, as they won’t spike your blood sugar. This may be evolutionarily accurate; during the day, the men went out and hunted lean game and the women gathered very fibrous vegetables, then in the evening everyone sat around and feasted. Also, studies show our hunger hormones are the highest in the evening, and eating a lot of carbs or fats makes your sleep shit due to being energized, so this may be the way. Protein is very thermogenic, however, which means you have to make sure you stay cool during the night.
-Because of the above, possibly do high protein diet where you fast as long during the day as you can then when you do eat have it be 1/3 BMR slow digesting carbs 1/3 BMR fat rest lean meat (This probably won’t work due to hurting your sleep, but it may be worth a try).

Fair warning: This is a long post.
I (37M, 6'1", 160lbs) started my weight loss journey in September of 2022. 9 years prior, I had lost 90 pounds, going from 265 to 175. I mostly kept that weight off for several years but then I had a job change, moved states, COVID happened, I got a divorce. You know, stuff that can really throw a person! So in September of 2022 when I stepped on the scale and saw 235, I knew I had to make a major course correction.
While I was despondent at what I knew would be a long journey ahead of me, I chose to look at the positives. Namely, I already knew how to do this! The first time I lost weight I had to learn everything about CICO, what worked for me in the gym, how to meet my macros, etc. So I was able to launch in with a full arsenal of tools to meet my goals.
Here's what works for me:

1. CICO. I ate at a -500 calorie deficit. Every day. No breaks in that routine for 4 months.
2. Low carb. I know this isn't for everyone and it certainly isn't gospel. But I keep my carbs under 40 every day and those carbs consist of leafy greens and fiber.
3. Exercise. I go to the gym 6 days a week. I don't do anything crazy. I started with just walking. Now I run 3 miles a day on incline and then do a mix of sit-ups, pushups, pull-ups, and planks. I don't use any weights at all other than my body weight.
4. Water. I drink 4-5L of water a day.

That's it. That all I did. Almost every day since September of 2022. And honestly, I...love it? The gym has become a place I really enjoy going to. If it's nice outside, I run there and do my other exercises at home. One major benefit of this is it's an exercise routine that travels very well so vacations don't throw me off anymore.
My daily food intake consists of 2 coffees (w/ cream- I simply won't deny myself that pleasure so I build around it), a sugar free Greek yogurt at 10:30, an Atkins protein bar at noon, some sugar free jerky at around 1:00, a cup of hot tea at around 2:00, A protein shake at 3:30, another protein shake after my workout at around 6:00, and then a dinner of lots of steamed vegetables with some butter and a lean protein. I try to regularly rotate between chicken, fish, pork and beef. After dinner I have a big apple for dessert. If I have the calories left over in the day, I will have another Greek yogurt or some nuts with the apple.
I feel fortunate that I don't get tired of this routine- I know it won't work for everyone. Personally I love the replicability of it. I also really enjoy that I feel like I'm constantly eating throughout the day and then I get honest to goodness full in the evening which helps me sleep and gives me something to look forward to during the day.
I've been maintaining my current weight since early January and I am considering going into a slight caloric surplus to assist in continued muscle building and toning. Maybe I'll try it out for a month or two and see what happens. I'm not looking to be chiseled, just toned up.
Last thing, I do have some loose skin as you can see in my photos (blurred but definitely NSFW). It's not as terrible as it could be though it does make me not want to take my shirt off in front of anyone. I'll give it a year or two and see if it's worth doing anything about.
Anyway, thanks for reading. Happy to answer questions as best as I can. Thank you all for being part of this community. I come every day just to get tips, find motivation, and have a sense of community so I don't feel alone in the process. Peace and love.
Photos (again, NSFW)

As always, thank you to u/SpacePaladin15 for the wonderful universe that is NoP! Thank you to u/sruisingNWfor proof reading and helping me make this chapter as good as it can be, you're the man! Honestly LoM wouldn't have gone very far without him! If you haven't you should absolutely go read Foundations of Humanity! It's very good!
A big thanks to u/Saint-Andros for helping with proofreading! He writes Out of Our Elements which is a very good one! If you like a good fic in the wilderness and a pair of cute 'friends' ;) you'll love OOE!
Also thank you to u/brotanics! For this wonderful fanart of Taisa. And this one! She's so cute I'm gonna die
And thank you to u/Jimdandy117! For this adorable fanart of Chris and Renkel! Dear god help he's adorable I love him so much
Thank you u/SlimyRage, or AsciiSquid on Discord, for makin' Vengineer Taisa Gamin'. She's absolutely adorable, I love her lil' workers apron. She looks so excited to get to work!
Thank you u/Braquen! For this astounding Pixel Art of Taisa after a few range day dates with Chris! Her little hat and gunbelt are absolutely astounding!
Thank you u/VeryUnluckyDice! For this Artwork of Taisa and Chris as characters from One Piece! I've never seen or read it before but it's incredibly cute!
First Prev. Next
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Memory Transcription Subject: Salamar, Gojid Exterminator, Heartwood River Exterminator Offices Rank: Extermination Officer
Date [Standardized Human Time]: October 5th, 2136
Can finally get back to work. Another paw, another pile of ash on the wind.
The rumbling warble of my alarm woke me from a deep and dreamless sleep as the familiar bronze light of the venlillian sun filtered into my cold, empty, apartment through the gaps in my blinds. My claws tugged at my quills as I ran them across my face and out across my back, squeezing my eyes shut and trying to shake the alluring call of returning to sleep from my muscles. The covers fell to the floor with a soft, almost distant whumf as the dacham weave crumpled into a heap of gray and pink textiles.
Stars burst across my closed eyes as I tried to rub free the fatigue clouding my vision and mind before sitting up with a long sigh, swinging my legs out from the bed to plant them on the hard stone floors to shove myself up to a waiting first meal, followed by a warm bath. “Come on, Sal, Lentan said he wanted you in early this paw.”
Protector save me; if it’s my first paw back from ‘leave’ and that Ven has me watching them aga-
The annoyed sentence fell apart in my mind, faltering as I thought about the ‘Protector’ and what it’d ever actually done for me, or my people. She’d let me be abandoned here. Let me wander scared, hungry, and alone for nearly [0.75 Solar Years]. Now the Cradle was gone. Not lost. Not captured. Not subjugated with some hope at future freedom.
It was gone.
Glassed by the grays into, from what few pictures the public had been shown, little more than a polished ball. A few good pawfulls of people had made it through in the deeper raid shelters, a few hundred thousand but… But that didn’t fix what had been done. Didn’t fix that it was still gone.
It was where my parents had met; though that was the end of any love I had for it. I was left to flutter in the wind, no uncle, or aunt, no grandparent or cousin; nobody who would raise a claw to catch me. Before they all stampeded off to that ‘cradle’ and left me behind to fend for myself alone on a planet I’d hardly known. A place I’d never even seen; nor would I ever get the chance to. The place that I should feel something about. Some hate towards the Humans that had invaded it in the first place? Some loss? Some sorrow? Some anger?
Some… something.
But it wasn’t there.
That burning pit of rage in my chest that I felt like I should be feeling… never sparked.
No. All that was there was apathy. Apathy and loneliness.
At least there’s something to look forward to next paw… Could always ask the Huma-- Chris abo-
The clatter of my lashing, frustrated tail smacking into the side of the hardwood table at the end of my bed snapped me from the depths of my mind with a start. I let out a small grunting laugh as I shook my head at the thought. I doubted it was something he’d want to talk about, certainly not with me.
I skewered a few vegetables and scooped up a pawful of amarek seed pods for first meal, tossing them in my mouth as I poured myself a glass of water to tamp them down with. The perfectly ripe mel roots and sturen gourds cut cleanly as I crunched away at the zingy, sap-filled pods. When we were still working together, Rensa had always mothered me about having so much sugar so soon after waking, but I suppose it never really stuck.
The sound of water filling the bath filled the air as a thin pall of steam drifted through the small bathroom, setting moisture onto the tips of my quills as I watched the waters roiling, soap slicked surface. Warm water spilled into my fur as I slipped into the tub with a long groan, soaking for a few blessed minutes just enjoying the warmth. A long, tired sigh slipped from my snout as I thought about everything I’d need to get done this paw. Outside of work, one thing stuck out far more than the others.
I hope Lentan has good news this time.
[Advance Memory Transcript by Time Unit: 1.5 Hours]
My walk to work was just as chilly as it had been every paw for the last [19 Solar Years]; not that it was a particularly long commute anyhow. Nor was it ever lacking in something, or someone, to watch. The Heartwood’s golden leaves twirled as they fell through the warm light that filtered through the sky above, painting the clouds beyond a beautiful array of purples, reds and oranges. The friendly, familiar hustle and bustle of Heartwood’s people welcomed me as I padded past the forum, staring up at the rustling golden canopy high above.
Eyes and ears followed me through my commute as people of the town watched me go. Some were with their herds, no doubt gossiping about me, the office and, of course, the Cradle. Others were alone, sympathetic tails curling in my direction as they went about their own paws or tended to their storefronts. It was odd, having people be sympathetic to you for a loss you didn’t even feel. Feeling like they were mourning the loss that should’ve been yours more than you ever would or could.
The heavy, sharply-chiseled blocks and broad Heartwood doors of the H.R.E.O. came into view as I passed Town Hall. Lentan's old tray-truck was in his reserved spot beside the street, signaling that the Chief was, as always, here early. The welcoming, whining creak of the aging, unoiled hinges sounded out into the office’s quiet lobby as I swung them open, finding the slight but familiar tinge of ash and accelerant hanging in the air.
The office felt more like home than my apartment ever really had.
As annoying as some of them may be, my coworkers were the closest to a family I’d ever managed to find since I was abandoned. Aside from the few wispy memories of my parents I still clung to, some of the best I ever had were last-meals at Rensa’s or Shenod’s, or winding down after long paws of field training, or of helping with the festival.
I missed having Rensa around more than anything I felt about the Cradle, about my ‘family’ that was still the- were still there. My ears flapped as my tail thumped annoyedly against the ground, trying my best to drive off the encroaching thoughts before I stepped into the office proper with heavy, plodding steps towards my desk. I slung my satchel across the back of my seat, collecting my duty kit and slipping it onto my belt with a grunt of frustration as I looked to Lentan’s office.
The door was open, light spilling across the floor like a wash on the riverbank as the rhythmic sound of the Chief’s claws tapping away at his pad danced through the opening while I made my way across the short distance. I hesitated just shy of the light, listening intently as his voice drifted to my ears. “-ic, I think you’ll find the H.R.E.O. to be just what you’re looking for. Quiet, friendly, wonderful food for when the cubs come to visit and well off the pa-...”
Lentan trailed off, the silence being filled by a curious, unfamiliar grunt before his more familiar, amused tone called me out. “Salamar, you’re no cub anymore, no need to hide in the door. Come in.”
A rush of warmth flooded just beneath my fur at the mock reprisal as I stepped forward and slowly slid the door open the rest of the way. >Apologies< “Good Waking, Sir. You wanted to see me?”
“Indeed I did.” He replied, flicking his ears to the chair in front of his desk on my left, and the broad, slightly graying Gojid with well kept white quills sitting in it. “I thought you might like to meet, and thank, our newest officer.”
The man turned in his seat as he stood, grunting out a gruff, if not welcoming, greeting with a shallow bow. “Good waking, Salamar. Lentan has told me plenty about you, and your more… recent duties. I am Ulmic.”
My quills shook with annoyance at the thought of my last few paws of work before my mandated ‘leave’. It was far more like a one man pup-sitting service just keeping Farzen and Marlek’s hides out of the fire, and trouble. I spared a glance at his satchel before returning the bow, spying the gleaming, well worn mark of a Senior Exterminator. “And you, Ulmic. I wish you better luck with them than I had.”
“We’ve met before, unfortunately. I’d bet credits to greeol I’ve handled far worse in my time at Dawn Creek.” He replied with a deep, rolling belly laugh, as his tail thumped against his leg. “These two are more like spoiled cubs than anything else and I assure you I’ve got experience a-plenty with cubs, young and grown, at this point.”
>Good to hear.< “Is there anything you’d like my help with? I’ve got the full report from their last incident at my desk.”
“I think that’d be a good start, yes.” Ulmic answered, taking a step before stopping and turning to Lentan. “Unless you’ve anything more for me, sir?”
“Nothing pressing. More immediately, Salamar, you are to get Ulmic situated; he’s at the desk across from yours. Once he’s squared away, make sure he has any equipment he needs and give him a tour of town along with Shenod, once he’s in.”
“On it, Sir. Would you like us to take Farzen and Marlek with us to keep an eye on them?” The question tumbled from my mouth as I slid clear of the door frame to let Ulmic pass.
>No.< Lentan shook his head, his tail mirroring the motion. “Estrea will keep an eye on them, they could do to get caught up on their paperwork this paw. Dismissed”
>Yes Sir.<
Ulmic stood over the empty desk in front of mine, rooting about inside his oversized satchel for a moment before producing a wood-set holo-frame, setting it down in the corner and turning it on with a tap of his claw. Images of a happy family flickered to life across the screen as Ulmic let out a warm, affectionate chuff before digging back into his bag for a few other personal items.
My heart panged like an empty canister as I slipped past his side to pull the file from my desk, watching as the image switched to the next in queue, showing Ulmic and the woman from the last picture pressed tight with each other in a well lit park with high, happy ears. “Beautiful family, Ulmic.”
>Appreciation.< “Thank you, Salamar.” He answered, accepting the file with open paw and plunking it onto his desk before flipping it open to skim. >Welcoming.< “You should come by some time, Bernia makes the most delicious Tefek Roast.”
“Tefek?” >Unfamiliar< I replied, smoothing my quills out before sliding into my seat.
“It’s a traditional recipe she got from her mother.” He answered, his voice a little distracted as he read through the report from the festival. “Big chunks of Tefek in a rich broth with a few other savory fruits and vegetables.”
“I can’t say I’ve heard of it, unfortunately, I was born here.”
“Me too, and neither had I before I’d met her. It’s really quite popular back on-” Ulmic hesitated, his quills flaring as his ears fell to the sides of his head and he finished with a sigh. “It was quite popular on the Cradle.”
“I’m sure I’d like it then, but I wouldn’t want to be a burden…” I hesitated for a moment, the distant sound of the office’s front doors swinging open harvesting my attention before I returned to watch the older Gojid pull his eyes from the file in front of him to stare at the Holo-frame. “Did… Did you lose anyone?”
“No- well yes a few but no one I was… close to. A few distant cousins and an aunt that were still planetside but we’ve not spoken in quite some time. I suppose I’m one of the lucky ones.” Ulmic’s eyes lifted, searching my face as he spoke in a soft, pained tone. “I’ve been informed my Brother and his family were evacuated in the first wave, thankfully. Though I have little information on where they ended up once the glass was cold, outside of being ‘On Earth’. And the Humans’ ‘U.N.’ has been far from helpful in trying to get in contact with them.”
“Ulmic?” I began, chewing at an idea that popped into my mind as Ulmic’s attention sullenly returned to the report in front of him. “How do you feel about Humans?”
He stopped, looking back up from the report again with a bewildered look on his face as Shenod’s heavy footsteps entered the room. >Confusion< “Currently annoyed but… I’ve met a few seemingly good ones now, at least. Why?”
“Because I think,” I started, grunting a little as I pulled myself from the chair and gave Shenod a quick flick of acknowledgement before tapping a claw on the singular string of blocky Human script farther down the page. “that one might be able to help.”
“Ah, yes; the big one. We’ve met…” Ulmic replied, a flick of recognition crossing his ears as Shenod came to a stop between our desks.
“Well I’m sure we’ll come across them at some point this paw.” Shenod responded, placing a broad, sympathetic paw on Ulmic’s shoulder before continuing. “For now though, it’s been a while so we need to get caught up and make sure you’ve got everything you need.”
[Advance Memory Transcript by Time Unit: 2.5 Hours]
The solid thunk of closing doors punctuated the cold, quiet twilight air as Shenod, Ulmic and I dismounted from the van at the rear of the office, overlooking the distant basin and the darkened, quiet festival grounds. Ulmic let out a long, appreciative whistle as he rocked on his heels, his quills flaring along his back arching in a broad stretch. “I think I might be getting too old for those jump seats. Feel like my back’s been put through a dacham-thresher.”
“They’re certainly not comfortable.” Shenod grunted, padding around the front of the van to stop at our side. “But they’re still better than those ones they had when we started!”
“You mean those hardened hydro-plastics? Might be one of the worst seats I’ve ever had the displeasure of sitting in.” Ulmic laughed in return, turning his attention from the fields in front of us to split it between Shenod and I. “Would you believe we still had a pair of the old trucks with them mounted in the bed?”
“Stars above, why?” Shenod asked, his ears an incredulous splay of confusion. “We got rid of our last one… [8 Solar Years] ago now and it couldn’t have been a day too soon!”
“They were always one of those problems that weren’t quite pressing enough to be a top priority but just annoying enough to always come up in the office reviews. Well, that and the budget, I suppose.” Ulmic sighed as he turned his attention back to the open, gently waving field between us and the choppy waters of the basin. “This where the town has its festival?”
“That it is.” I answered, stepping forward to his side after Shenod had prodded me forward, pointing at the shore as his ears traced the rim of the valley. “It's held at the basin side. We pitch in with whatever the organizers need to get running. Usually it’s help moving the wind-breakers in place, clearing any overgrowth, lending a paw to the vendors and lighting the bonfires.”
“Not far off from what Lentan has yo-” He hung up on the sentence for a moment, setting his jaw before correcting himself. “Sorry, it's been ages since I changed offices. What Lentan has us doing to help the farmers with their fields. Can’t say I’ve heard of many offices pitching in on civilian affairs.” >Odd.<
“It's certainly similar.” The answer shot from my mouth like a Talkan lighting off from the basin. My words fell short, being swept away by the gentle breeze dancing through the valley this paw leaving behind an awkward, empty silence. A memory came to mind as I watched Ulmic’s tail tap against his leg in thought. “He told me, when I’d asked why he was making so many changes, when I was barely more than a cub, that he ‘felt we should be more than just a shield against the predator’.”
Ulmic’s attention turned to me, keen interest in his eyes as he listened. >Go on.<
“He said that ‘Exterminators should be a core pillar of the community itself and be ready to step in for anything that community could ever ask of them’. Then that next festival he sent us, Shenod, Rensa and I, to see Yinav and offer her anything she needed.” My quills pressed against the cold metal of the van as I leaned against it and looked to the drifting spectrum of clouds filling the sky beyond the Heartwood. “I hadn’t understood it at the time. Hadn’t understood why, or how, anything other than destroying predators could be the best thing we could do for the town. Couldn’t begin to grasp how it was even remotely helpful to carry someone else's load to their stall, clear their fields or help set up some festival when I could’ve been at their side with my torch keeping them safe instead.”
“And now?” Ulmic grunted, the interest in his eyes was dripping from his voice as he shifted, tilting his head my way.
Now?
A small ember of warmth in my gut told me how I felt just the same as the memories that came to mind of the paws spent helping Yinav, old as she was now, get everything started and ready for the festival. Or the pride at paws spent carefully torching fields to prepare for the next crop rotation before helping Coleck with hauling his new equipment down from the delivery truck so he could get it configured.
“Now I look forward to it. I enjoy helping around the festival more than ‘normal’ exterminator work. It feels… productive helping the community, giving back to the people that took me in when I was alone.”
>Admirable< Ulmic’s attention turned from me back out to the distant festival grounds, the area left empty but for a small herd having a picnic beneath its awnings. “I should think it's quite rewarding, then. Certainly sounds a far more peaceful, if perhaps more strenuous, brand of community work than we’d had in Dawn Creek. And you, Shenod?”
“I’ve been on-board with it since Lentan first enacted the schedule. Chief’s had my name first on the list to help for the last what… [14, 15 Solar Years] now?” Shenod replied with a hum as he hefted his pack up onto his back before hoisting mine up towards me and turning to head out into the street, beckoning us after them. “I quite like exterminating, working to keep the community safe. But helping it flourish? That’s a glowing reward all its own and the kind of work I love.”
>Cautious Excitement.< “I think, if watching that pair of overgrown cubs will allow for it, I’d quite like the work myself.” I answered, swinging my own pack around onto my thermal-suit-clad back before padding after Shenod out onto the soft, black asphalt.
I followed the pair through town, noticing more and more sympathetic ears and tails following us as we went. That creeping weight of feeling like I was lesser for not grieving as much as the herds around me for a loss that wasn’t really theirs pulled down at my heart again. Ulmic’s tail dropped, his quills rising defensively beneath his suit as a mote of grief fell into his shoulders.
Before my thoughts could get away from me I heard the familiar, drifting notes of Chris in the forum accompanied by the new, far less practiced sounds of Renkel and his ‘ukelele’. I still couldn’t believe the Human had decided to teach the pup music, let alone that he’d bought him an instrument himself and, according to Rensa, insisted he teach him to play for free. Ulmic’s ears perked up at the sound flitting on the wind, his head tilting with curiosity as the tightness in his shoulders faded away.
“Little early for them this paw, eh Salamar?” Shenod grunted, shifting the pack on his back a little as we turned the corner to the edge of the forum, finding our view blocked by the herds milling about at its edge.
“Little early for who?” >Confusion.< Ulmic asked, standing a little straighter to see over the mass of Venlil in front of us before letting out a knowing grunt. “Ah, the Human. Lentan has informed me of his ‘departmental policy’ where he, or any other Humans, is concerned.”
“That won’t be a problem for you, I hope.” Shenod stated flatly, fixing Ulmic with a curious ear as his eyes stayed on Chris, Taisa and Renkel along with the smaller herd that’d formed around them.
>Just fine.< “I’ve no intention to be involved in another near diplomatic incident and I have no problem with Humans so long as they aren’t making one on their own.” Ulmic responded, his ears twitching with amusement at the discordant notes and raucous giggles Renkel was tugging from the strings of his instrument as Chris leaned close to instruct him. “Is i- he -teaching the pup music?”
“I was just as surprised when Rensa told me.” I answered, watching as Chris slid Renkel’s paw a little further up the length of the instrument, the sounds gaining a sprout more structure as Chris guided the pup through the right motions. “He’ll surprise you, usually in good ways if you’ll let him.”
“That seems to be the trend with them, at least the ones I’ve met.” Ulmic chuffed, his tail tapping against his leg as he shifted his position to get a better view. “They are… not what I had expected.”
“Not what I’d expected either.” Shenod hummed as he and I stepped forward to ply through the crowd and out into the forum proper, earning a flare of surprise from Ulmic’s quills before he started to follow after us with a grunt of protest.
Chris spotted us over the well groomed flower beds and short, stunted trees, giving us a pleasant wave as we approached, sending the attention of the herd gathered around him towards us. He’d lost the lower part of his visor while they’d been gone, leaving his mouth exposed as he called out a greeting to us. It was surprising, looking at his teeth without the ‘context’ of his eyes was not nearly as horrifying as I had thought it might have been.
“Afternoon, Gentlemen and… Ulmic? Guess you really did get to thinkin’ about takin’ up a new office!” Chris laughed, slapping one of his broad hands against his knee as his surprisingly familiar looking teeth flashed past the shattered edge of his visor.
“That I did, Bernia and I felt it was finally time for a… a change of pace after so long in Dawn Creek.” Ulmic responded, the press of his quills against his suit falling as Shenod and I settled down onto our usual ‘bench’ at the side of one of the planters.
“Well we’re happy to have you, Ulmic. Stars, we might need to invite Alvi and them over one paw!” Taisa whistled from over Renkel’s shoulder, her tail wrapped tight around Chris’ wrist as she ran her claws through her brother’s wool, prompting the pup forward to Shenod and I.
A flash of something passed across Ulmic’s quills as she spoke, a happy, burbling laugh spilling from his mouth before he responded. “I suppose you might, although I think Bernia and I would like to get settled in before having any ‘emotional umbrellas’ around.”
Taisa met his laugh with her own, leaning gently against Chris’ side as she spoke. “Well you just say the word and I’ll give them a call. Now, I trust Uncle Shenod and Salamar have given you a good tour?”
“That they have, just as beautiful as I remember it…” He trailed off, shifting uneasily on his paws as he looked between the two of him, his ears flapping with thought.
Chris watched him for a moment, his hand tugging through the fur on his jaw as he leaned back on the bench. “Something on your mind, Ulmic?”
Ulmic hesitated, his mouth opening and closing as he looked for the right words. “Just… you two were on the cradle, right?”
The pair, and the herd around them, tensed. Chris and Taisa shared a glance, Taisa’s lopped ear flicking slightly as she pulled herself a little closer to Chris, the sound of Renkel’s barely restrained beeping while he climbed into Shenod’s lap the only sound amongst us.
“Yes, yes we were.” Chris rumbled, warryness lacing his words as his fingers ran through Taisa’s tail tuft. “Why?”
“I was… looking for someone, my Brother and his family. I know they were evacuated bu-”
“Where were they?” Taisa whistled in quiet question, her ears swiveling about with concern as her coiled tension started to unwind.
“They lived in Comet’s Gate, it’s- er, it was -the largest city on the Sandall Islands”
“The Sandalls…” Chris leaned back with a contemplative hum, his fingers working through his beard again as he thought before letting out a stiff grunt. “Those islands were under the Hope’s aid corridor. She dropped off her refugees in Houston, not too far from the port if I remember correctly. I’ve got some friends there and I’m sure our U.N. rep’d be happy to help, if’n he’s the time of course. Just have Shenod or Salamar send us their names and I’ll get on it here in a few hours.”
“Thank you…” Ulmic replied, his mouth hanging open for a moment as he started to look for a seat.
“Not a problem, Ulmic, we’re more than happy to help.” Chris replied, his usual more upbeat growl returning as he pulled the guitar back up into his lap, pulling lilting, happy notes into the air and earning a happy squeal from Renkel as he squirmed free of Shenod’s paws before bolting to his own, smaller instrument.
Ulmic settled down onto the bench at my side, pulling in a deep, relieved breath of the thick, flower laden air as we watched the pair of ‘musicians’ before he leaned towards me. “It wouldn’t be a burden at all to have you over for last meal, Salamar. I’m sure Bernia would love to meet you.”
I thought for a moment, watching Chris’ fingers dancing across the instruments strings as the twirling, golden leaves of the Heartwood rained down on the forum around us. “I think I’d like that, Ulmic.”
>Very good.< “I’ll let Bernia know you’ll be along then.” He responded, pulling his pad from his pack and sending off a message before leaning back and staring up at the Heartwood’s canopy high above.
We sat and watched, for a time, letting the paw pass us by as we watched the ‘terrifying predator’ give music lessons to every pup that would listen, just waiting for a real call to inevitably come.
It never did.
That Tefek sure does sound good.
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First Prev. Next

Chapter CLXXXIV
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Sherry-By-The-Bend.
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Dylan tossed and turned in his cot fitfully. He was grateful that Clive and the halflings didn't throw him and Alban out, yet. But he sure did wish they had something else for him to sleep in. At least back at the hub he and Alban could sleep within their workshop. Which was warm, dry, and something they had all to their selves.
​
All of that was something the shabby tents that he and Alban had been given lacked however. Grateful? Yes. Enjoyed? Not quite, Dylan thought as he decided that sleeping in longer was useless as the cot was doing more harm to his body than good at this point.
​
So with great reluctance, he arose and turned to the tent that was a decent sized for one of the smallfolk, especially a gnome that was a good deal leaner than the portly halflings were. But it was still a might bit cramped even for him. He didn't even want to think how Alban slept.
​
His morning, or perhaps it was evening now? He wasn't sure. The time seemed strange in this world compared to their own. Like the days were shorter. Anyway, his morning routine was quite quick and simple. He slept in his clothes since the threadbare blanket that was "generously" provided to him for was little better than the air around him. So he merely patted the dust and whatever else accumulated upon him in the tent that seemed to have a few more holes in it than yesterday.
​
He then gazed at the closed flap to his tent. He could hear the comings and goings of the halflings as they went about their day. He knew that would change the second they saw him and thus his hesitancy in venturing forth. But he also heard the amazing contraptions that were working away nearby! He had seen but a glimpse of them when they first arrived but he was so excited to get to know how they worked!
​
The dwarves weren't ones to let him poke at their works. He was sure the halflings wouldn't be so thrilled either. But from what he saw the labor force that operated them was largely human! Local humans at that! He had so many questions to ask them and even Clive when they get back to work on the mana capacitor!
​
This excitement is what finally gave him the boost of courage he needed to finally part the tent flap and step into yet another new world! Yet that excitement was quickly smothered as the nearby halflings seemed to immediately turn their eyes upon him. They were not friendly eyes either, he noted as he gave them a fragile smile and a polite wave.
​
But whatever friendliness and hospitality that the halflings offered to him was done and gone with it seemed as they merely huffed or grumbled at his presence before departing on with their day and whatever activities that it entailed.
​
No matter, Dylan thought as he made his way over to Alban's tent. Wouldn't be the first time that he's walked out to a populace that weren't exactly thrilled with his presence. Though usually it took a bit more time for them to grow tired with their many, explosive, failures before finally deciding that being polite wasn't worth the effort.
​
He pushed aside the flap and found Alban sleeping away effortlessly on his cot that was just a touch too small for the dwarf.
"At least someone is getting some sleep."
​
With a sigh he walked over to the dwarf and shook him awake. Alban blinked and looked around with an irritated look before turning a critical eye towards Dylan.
"Come on, Alban! We have much to do today!"
​
His adopted brother grunted in an annoyed tone, but still made to rise as Dylan looked around at the dwarf's tent. It would seem that the halfling's short measure of hospitality wasn't quite extended to Alban as Dylan noted that his tent was in far better condition than his own. Even the dwarf's blanket could at least be called such.
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Not like he should've expected anything different, Dylan thought. Halflings and gnomes never get along. He was sure that if it wasn't for Clive vouching for him he would've been thrown out before he could even blink!
​
Instead he now had to live in a place that was unfriendly and completely absent of comforts. Nothing new to him at any rate, Dylan thought as Alban finished getting dressed and followed the gnome back out into the halfling colony. The response to Alban's presence was leagues apart from his own. The halflings at least acted like they were pleased by the dwarf's presence. Which ended when they saw Dylan.
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Again. Nothing he wasn't used to, Dylan thought as he and Alban made their way over to where their things had been stored. Which was a patch of cleared ground by a tree next to the river flowing nearby. Though stored wouldn't be the word he would use as he saw the rather indelicate state of the crates and other storage containers. He wasn't sure if they got that way because of the laborers back at the hub or the halflings. He wouldn't put it past either group to be honest.
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"Well. We have to start somewhere, eh Alban?" Dylan declared with an affirmative grunt from the mute dwarf.
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So the two artificers got to work unloading their bits and bobs and gadgets and gizmos and setting them someplace out of the way so they could take stock of what all needed to be replaced, what can be rebuilt, and what they had to work with after their less-than-smooth transition to their new home.
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Unfortunately, it would seem progress on the mana canisters would be on hold even longer, Dylan thought with a sigh as he noted the dented tanks and cracked glass. They could maybe do a single test if they really wanted to push their luck. But other than that they would need to either requisition more materials from the dwarven clan, see if the halflings would be willing to help them out, or find some way to manage on their own.
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Really they only had one option as the former two would likely only happen when the stars fell upon them. If even then. Then there was the matter of a new workshop. He doubt the halflings would assist them. Maybe the humans could spare some materials? Possibly for a workshop as well as for their experiments even, Dylan thought as he realized that the humans of this world would more than likely be their only source of contact. Friendly contact at least, Dylan thought with a sigh as he and Alban secured what was still good and then sorted the rest between stuff that was salvageable and what was nothing but scrap and refuse.
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There was more of the latter than he would like to admit. But hopefully the humans of this world could assist him! First things first though, he had to see Clive and break the bad news that their work on the mana capacitors would be on hold a while longer. Though he was sure Clive would know what to do! He seemed to know much about how things worked in this world and would no doubt be a great assistance to them!
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With a plan in action, he and Alban made their way back into the colony. Ignoring the looks and grumbles of the halflings as they muttered rude remarks about his gnomishness. Saying it didn't bother him would be a lie. But he was used to it by now that the barbs didn't stick quite as easy as they did once upon a time ago.
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They still hurt though. Who would willingly stay in places where their presence wasn't wanted? Where they were treated as little more than burdens at best and unwelcome pests at worst? But Dylan wasn't going to let that get between them and their journey of making the world a better place for the average person!
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Though he did wish that the halflings were at the very least willing to answer a simple question like where Clive was instead of huffing and turning their noses up at him. Due to Alban being mute he wasn't much better at getting answers from the halflings either.
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So when finally someone did answer his questions he wasn't at all surprised to find it was a human.
"Sure. Him and his lil girlfriend left for Thanksgivin'."
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"Thanks-given?" Dylan asked the man who was in the dress of a laborer. Though from the clothes he wore Dylan would peg him as a local rather than someone from Daele.
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"Yeah. Should be back in a couple hours." The man explained and tipped his hat before heading off to work on whatever project he was working on.
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Well, guess that was one conversation that he need not deal with at the moment, Dylan thought as he and Alban stood within what looked to be the main market square of the colony as halflings bartered, traded, and sold wares and produce.
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He had heard that halflings had a gift for farming and gardening, but with this cold he doubt that even they would be able to grow such ripe fruits and vegetables. So where did they come from. he thought as he took a couple of curious steps towards a large red fruit that appeared to have come from a vine of sorts.
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"Oy! Back you!" The vendor cried out and shooed away Dylan before he could come within an arms length of the fruit that was bigger than his hand.
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"Oh?! Sorry!" Dylan apologized and shuffled back as many halfling eyes turned towards the commotion.
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"You should be! Nosey gnome!" The halfling spat and glared at Dylan until he and Alban were well enough away to satisfy him.
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He heard Alban rumble angerly as they left. He took the mistreatment of Dylan worse than the gnome did. Then again, dwarves were always ones to look after those closest to them. Alban being Clanless by dwarven standards didn't mean that the sense of clannishness didn't just disappear.
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He was also the only one of the two that could exert any sort of physical threat against any would-be bullies to the gnome. But when you made enemies wherever you went it just wasn't practical to be defensive all the time, Dylan had told Alban one day. After than Alban had been less inclined to stand up to bullies except in certain cases when they tried to get physical against him. But it still bothered the dwarf, Dylan noted.
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Dylan was about to say something when Alban tugged on him quickly and pulled him back! Dylan yelped and glanced at what it was that had Alban reacting so, and saw several humans marching past him carrying boxes and crates of materials!
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But he wasn't sure if they were locals though, they worse strange green clothes and marched like soldiers in an army rather than the laborers. Though he also noted some people from Daele were also among their kind as they also hauled and carried supplies and materials as well.
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"Quick! Follow them Alban!" Dylan cheered as he hurried away after the humans with Alban rolling his eyes before following after the gnome.
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They didn't have to follow long however as they soon reached their destination, though they could tell as much by the increasing sounds of work in the area as they neared. Dylan was completely silent as he beheld the tools the humans used to work with! Nails that were straight and smooth were pushed into pieces of wood by some sort of pressurized gadget and nails that were threaded with grooves were pushed by another.
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But that wasn't all, Dylan noted as he saw wooden boards being cut up by some sort of self moving saw that cut through the lumber with such ease that it was scary. He turned his head when he heard a great hammering noise and saw a human picking away at a large boulder in the ground with some sort of large pick that seemed to chip away at the stone like a woodpecker does to bark!
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Yet the noise grew more and more intense and if it wasn't for Alban he would've been squished by a truly impressive marvel to behold! It seemed to be similar to the horseless carriages that the humans of this world used. But it was larger and louder and had an arm with a large metal bucket attached to it as it dug away at the ground and carried it away! He was almost sure it was some sort of golem if it wasn't for the pane of glass revealing a human operator within to tell him otherwise.
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"Hey watch it kid!" One of the men in green barked and marched past Dylan while carrying a spool of what appeared to be wired copper.
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Alban was quick to extract Dylan from the area as it quickly got more and more busy as humans continued to tear away at the ground while filling it in with metal rods, piping, and a strange stone-like paste.
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Alban didn't stop dragging the gnome until the sounds of human construction was in the background. Only to be replaced by a low hum from nearby instead. Dylan and Alban turned to look at the source and found a large building made of glass and metal. The glass was heavily fogged up and even from this far away they could tell that alot of heat was coming from the building.
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"What is that?" Dylan asked.
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Alban gave a curious grunt since he was the only one that would bother to answer Dylan it seemed since any nearby halflings did little more than glare at the gnome before departing on their way. Dylan however was more fascinated by the large structure and slowly inch towards the obvious door in the front of the building.
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The warmth grew greater and greater as he and Alban neared. It was a welcome compared to the chill air around them and Dylan would LOVE to know how it was being made! They neared the door and could hear muffled voices from the other side as well as more humming from somewhere nearby. Whatever was making it was either inside or near the building if Dylan had to guess.
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But curiosity as to what laid within was greater and so Dylan reached for the lower half of the door and pulled on it. The door swung open easily and the artificers were bathed with a warm humid air that rushed out. The two of them peered within and saw exactly where the halfling produce was coming from!
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"It's a greenhouse!" Dylan exclaimed.
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But how could it still be running when it was so cold, Dylan wondered. The sun certainly wasn't providing enough heat to trap, he noted as he looked above at the cloudy sky that hung ever present over them. So then something else must be making it, Dylan wondered as he walked into the pleasantly warm greenhouse and beheld the verdant array of fruits and vegetables that were growing about the place!
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None showed signs of wilting from the cold or hardship from being in pots and garden boxes. Dylan also noted the light above was quite intense, while warmth did come from them, it didn't seem to solely come from the strange light above them. Yet more things that fascinated Dylan in this world.
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But his fascination was interrupted far too soon as the halfling gardeners within turned and spotted him and Alban.
"'Ey! Get outta 'ere you!"
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"But how is the air so warm?! How are the plants growing when it's this cold?!" Dylan asked excitedly.
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"That'd be 'Enry it is." One of the halflings declared.
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"Quiet you! Bad enough tha' folk 'round 'ere are buyin' inta tha' nonsense without spreadin' it ta others!" Another halfling chided the first.
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"But you saw-"
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"It were jus' tha air blowin' is all it were!" The halfling exclaimed.
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"Blowing from where?!" Dylan blurted out and seemed to remind the halflings that they were there.
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"Oh no you dinnae! Out!" One of the halflings declared and moved to vacate Dylan and Alban from the building.
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"But-"
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"No buts! Dinnae be needed some gnome pokin' 'is fingers somewhere important! Out with you!" The halfling declared and shove him out, with Alban following behind since the halflings weren't strong enough, or temperamental enough, to force out the dwarf on their own.
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"Nosey gnome." The halfling spat before slamming the door closed on the two artificers.
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Alban glanced down at Dylan. Today has been rough for the gnome. Well, these past few weeks has been, the dwarf noted. Seeing those tools that the humans were using appeared to be something like the plans that he and Dylan had drawn up and even built some rough prototypes for. But theirs seemed like something cobbled together with scrap in comparison to the sleek and efficient tools that the humans used. Even the strange thing that they rode in to move the dirt made their plans at a golem seem amateurish.
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Alban made to place his hand comfortingly on Dylan's shoulder when the gnome exclaimed loudly and pulled some charcoal and paper from his pocket and began to scribble and draw plans and notes aplenty at lightning speed as it seemed inspiration had struck the gnome. Then again, Dylan wasn't one to let things bother him as much as it did Alban. Where Alban saw failure of their work, Dylan saw another step in the road to progress. Where Alban saw better versions of tools that they had spent months even years in designing and building, he saw inspiration for yet more projects to work on.
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The dwarf wasn't at all surprised to hear Dylan talking so fast he wasn't sure if he was even breathing. He was almost sure he wasn't when Dylan finally paused to breath, long enough to point behind Alban and mutter.
"Oh no."
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Alban turned around and saw three halflings staring at them. All three walked with an air of authority and carried with them clubs. The lead halfling's was tucked in a loop on his belt while the other two carried theirs in their hands. The rest of the halflings seemed quite friendly in comparison, Alban noted as he made to stand between Dylan and the three.
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"You tha gnome e'eryone's been fussin' 'bout?" The lead halfling asked as he leaned to the side to cast a wary eye on Dylan.
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"Yes?" Dylan squeaked, uncertain if perhaps there was another gnome here as well but he was highly doubtful.
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The halfling didn't seem much intimidated by Alban's presence and sauntered over to the dwarf and peered up at him.
"I'm takin' it tha' yer 'is protector?"
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Alban grunted and stared down the halfling who nodded in return.
"Well then I'll get straight ta it. Thin's 'round 'ere are mighty tense as is with tha mayor gone fer a bit. E'en when he returns it's likely not ta be gettin' much better. So, do us both a favor, 'nd keep tha gnome outta trouble, ya ken?"
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Alban grunted and continued to glare at the halfling as Dylan shuffled nervously behind the dwarf. The halfling merely smiled and tipped his hat to him.
"Good. Keep yer nose clean boyo's 'nd we'll not be seein' one another."
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With that warning/threat delivered, the lead halfling departed while whistling a tune while the other two followed along while glaring at Dylan and Alban. He looked familiar, Dylan thought. But he wasn't very liked among the small halfling population of Daele either and he certainly wasn't on first name basis.
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But Dylan wasn't going to let a moderate amount of unfriendliness stop him from diving back into all the exciting thoughts he had! All the plans that seemed to strike him like a bolt of lightning after seeing all the tools and strange contraptions the humans used! He was also sure that the heated greenhouse was also of human make as well.
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Speaking of, Dylan thought as he hurried to the side of the building with Alban close behind him. From the side he spotted what might be the source of much of the heat. He believed it was called a gen-or-rater. At least that's what the humans of this world called it when he overheard some explaining it to the dwarves and the other laborers back at the hub one day.
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It hummed monotonously and it took Alban pulling him back before Dylan could even think of taking a closer look at it. Curiosity killed the gnome after all, Alban thought as he dragged Dylan away before he potentially tinkered with a vital part of the halfling's home.
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If Dylan was hurt he didn't show it, instead he seemed more than content and distracted as he continued to mutter and scribble as ideas and plans and future projects rushed to him as they returned to the open patch of ground that was to be their workshop for the time being. While they may not have done what they set out to do, at least they learned something from the venture. At the very least they learned that the humans of this world were a mark more friendly to them and were a possible source of materials if they asked them. Though payment might be a concern, Alban thought as he watched Dylan pick apart the piles of parts in search of something fitting to bring his ideas into the physical plane.
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If they were back at the hub then parts and materials were given to them on account of them being subsidiaries of the dwarven clan. But since it seems that their affiliation with the clan is a bit foggy at the moment, he doubt they could rely on them until they showed progress in their mana capacitor.
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Perhaps they'll have to return to making tinker toys after all, Alban thought as Dylan got to work on some sort of project, completely unbothered with such thoughts and left such worries for Alban to, well, worry about.
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