I’ve been working in admin/bookkeeping positions for small businesses for the last 14 years. I have a bachelors in business administration and a few software specific certificates.
Over time my career shifted naturally towards bookkeeping as I enjoyed and understood it. I’ve had some form of “bookkeeper” title for the last eight years during which time I’ve worked for three small businesses. However, in these roles I am performing duties that I suspect go beyond that title.
At each company I have been solely responsible for a financial management reporting only to the owner. I do payroll, A AP & collections, tax prep and filing, financial reporting, budgets and projections and I’m always added to a company’s bank account with full authority to manage transfers and payments. Aside from this I am usually unofficial tech support as well.
I am also always the lowest paid employee despite getting great reviews and feedback. My current company is very generous and I enjoy working for them, but I’m starting to see the same signs that I will not progress. I’m wondering if the role of “bookkeeper” has me stagnating or if I’m simply not asserting myself enough.
Does anyone in this industry have any suggestions on how to progress using my experience alone? I’d love to get an accounting degree but the funds just aren’t there right now.

**Fujimaru Ritsuka, the Last Master of Humanity, Enemy of the Crypters, Ammo of the Black Barrel, Feller of Goetia... is batshit insane.
Let me explain.
...

Lack of Basic Understanding of Causality

Fujimaru's bizzare tendencies show up from the very beginning of FGO. According to the game, he joins Chaldea after seeing a poster and deciding to take the job on a whim.
However, Chaldea is in Antartica. The implication is thus that Fujimaru abandoned his family, abandoned his life, abandoned everything he'd ever known and loved, to go to Antartica for a job that he had no idea what was, with zero guarantee of getting the job, with no certainty of a return trip-
On a whim.
Immediately after this, while getting lectured by his potential boss, being told everything he needs to know to pass the entry test, he decides now would be a perfect time to take a nap. Understandably, his boss is miffed by the new intern with zero experience taking a nap right in front of her while she's explaining the most important part of their job, and she decides to fire him.
Fujimaru reacts to this with... nothing. He's a little concerned and stressed per his dialogues, but you'd think he'd be significantly more horrified about needing to walk back home through the Antarticas or join an oil mine at the bottom of Chaldea. Instead, he just... chills with the doctor?
When he finds out Chaldea is on fire and even all the skilled, significantly better Masters than him are dead, his reaction isn't terror or fear. Instead, he remembers a girl he talked to ONCE, and immediately rushes over to the literal origin site of the fire to check if she's alright. Then he sees that she's buried under a building. As a regular guy, he has no prospects of saving her. And the longer he stays, the lower his chances of survival get. His response?
Ignore everything to hold her hand and stay there till no hope of getting out remains.
Presumably CHALDEAS itself is impressed by what is either the tremendous love of Ciel-lookalikes or the complete lack of basic understanding of consequence in this man, and it sends him to Fuyuki presumably in hopes to unite him with fellow madman Shirou so that their collective insanity can open a path to the Root or something.
...

What's Self-Preservation? Can I eat it?

Fujimaru is teleported to a hotter fire surrounded by skeleton upon skeleton. Fortunately, the girl he held hands with turned into super servant Galahad. She can protect hi-
Ritsuka why the hell are you throwing yourself into danger when you have a LITERAL SHIELD at your side?
No Fujimaru do not sacrifice yourself trying to protect someone WHO LITERALLY WEARS ARMOUR AND HAS A SHIELD!
Fujimaru taking a page from the book of Shirou Emiya has a violent martyr complex and nearly dies dooming all humanity in the first twenty minutes of the game. Very fortunately, Cu Chulainn notices this and not wanting to be outdone by someone else dying before him, saves the day.
Ritsuka later proceeds to instantly grasp the concept of Shadow Summoning and turn it into his technique which further raises the question of if brain damage in the Nasuverse just lends you power somehow when we consider the strongest techniques in the series:

• Unlimited Bladeworks (manifested by swordtism)
• Tsubame Guashi (manifested by fightingtism)
• Strong Punch (manifested by Soujuuro)

Ritsuka then acts normal for some time till we reach the end of Singularity-F. He finds out about the END OF HUMANITY.
He is somehow barely fazed by this and determines to save it all himself. This random chump with no mage skills, no Master experience, nothing at all, is entirely confident. This is presumably the true reason why Servants keep being summoned - not by Mash's roundtable shield - but because Fujimaru's balls are just so big they've developed their own gravitational fields and draw in Servants from the Throne like a blackhole.
...

Psychopathy in the Singularities

Fujimaru Ritsuka, Humanity's Last Asylum Escape, then goes to Orleans, sees several thousand dragons, ignores the terror of that sight, murders a fanfiction OC, murders his way through Septem without going insane in the process despite interacting with Nero, and finally we reach the madness that is Fujimaru in Okeanos.
Fujimaru in Okeanos:

• Volunteers to race against HERACLES
  
• He WINS this race against HERACLES
  
• He, a completely inexperienced magus, fights a woman WHO HAS SINGLE-HANDEDLY KILLED POSEIDON AND IS BEING POWERED BY A HOLY GRAIL and wins?????
  
• Fujimaru also wouldn't have full understanding of Shadow Summoning at this point, so the implication is that Fujimaru just half-assed it and then made up the difference by fistfighting her? What sort of gym is this kid going to?
  

We continue on to London. Fujimaru sees a Goddess, the human equivalent of a God, a fragment of Amaterasu, one of the Heavenly Kings, all back to back and is completely uninterested.
He trusts Mordred, literally known as the Knight of Treachery and Jekyll whose best known myth is him pretending to be another person to get out of the consequences of his desire to be evil and betray all his friends.
From this we conclude Fujimaru Ritsuka has no understanding of basic human minds and operates on some greater level of humanity known only to him and Soujuuro.

Train him wrong as a joke? Wait, we were supposed to train him?

Fujimaru walks across the entirety of America on foot in less than a month. In Lord of the Rings, this took over a year. Now, this wouldn't be surprising for a mage. They can boost their physical capabilities so-
What do you mean Fujimaru doesn't know how to enhance his body?
Yeah, as it turns out, contrary to a number of doujins and... basic expectations, not a single person taught Fujimaru Ritsuka, Last Master of Humanity, the guy on whom the entire world depends, basic f***ing magecraft. You know, Da Vinci, maybe some things are more important than making fun of Romani for liking Vtubers? Maybe you could have taught the kid literally the most important fundamental to keeping up with Servants?
This is shown in Lostbelt 1 where Kadoc is surprised that Fujimaru can't enhance his eyes before Fujimaru reveals that he doesn't know anything about enhancement at all, which is... C'mon, Paracelsus, Avicebron, Circe, Medea, they're all literally part of the team. Did not one of them consider "huh, I wonder if I should teach the Last Master of Humanity, the guy on whom ALL HUMANITY DEPENDS, magecraft?"
Shirou was trained wrong. Ritsuka? Somehow Chaldean staff are even more negligent than Kiritsugu. He wasn't trained at all!
...

Fujimaru tells God to eat Shit

Fujimaru goes to Camelot. He's almost normal for most of it besides a tad too deep sense of social justice shared by Mash.
Then he confronts the Lion King. The Lion King who could smite him with a single thought. The Lion King who wields the Pillar of the World. He looks at her, this terrifying force of nature, an actual divinity, God to mortal.
...And he tells her she's a dumbass.
"Humans aren't butterflies you can put on a board!" says Fujimaru Ritsuka, having for unknown reason decided to try to refute a GOD. And flabbergastingly, this works as Lion King takes brain damage presumably from the sheer bafflement that a child with no special abilities is talking down to her, causing her to go berserk and lose when Bedivere activates his Bitch-Slap Airgetlam.
...
Then he goes to Ancient Uruk/Babylonia/I still have no clue where this is. He meets Gilgamesh, King of Heroes, several tiers beyond what Fujimaru will ever be.
"I'm going to skip the line to talk shit to you and ask you to join me," decides Ritsuka. Gilgamesh, unimpressed tries to make him do housework. Fujimaru reveals that in addition to being Humanity's Last Master, he's Humanity's Last Housewife and perfectly does everything till Gil is forced to respect his impressive janitorial skills and they go off to Literal Hell together.
Fujimaru's insanity then makes him befriend several people he shouldn't including:

• God known for betraying everyone she knew (Ishtar)
• God trying to kill them (Gorgon Lily )
  
• Other God trying to kill them (Jaguar)
  
• the Grim Reaper (King Hassan)
  
• The Grim Reaper if it was an anime Waifu (Ereshkigal)
  
• Merlin, who if you've studied Arthurian mythos, you know is the LITERAL ANTICHRIST.
  

Somehow, he gets all of these to work together including mortal enemies Gilgamesh and Ishtar, and inspires King Hassan to give up his Grand title to become a different Grand- a Grandfather.
Fujimaru Ritsuka fights with Lucha Wrestler God trying to kill him by attempting to... suicide tackle her by being air dropped for some reason instead of just breaking the damn magic stone powering her because Fujimaru has offscreen developed telepathy and knows exactly what Lucha Goddess wants.
Having befriended a fourth god trying to kill them, they go to befriend Mom by beating her to death. The gang cheers as they succeed and Waifu Grim Reaper is outed as a tsundere.
...

Coughing Baby vs Omnipotent King of Seventy Two Demon Gods (the baby wins)

Fujimaru goes to outer space. He meets unsurmountable odds. Seventy-two immortal Demon Gods. His reaction?
"Nah, I'd Summon."
Fujimaru transforms the game into a Kingdom Hearts story as the bonds he formed along the way act as a catalyst to summon EVERY SINGLE SERVANT IN THE THRONE to fight for his ass. Goetia screams like a baby as Fujimaru performs the ultimate JJK beatdown by calling in every damn person to ever do anything of note to kick Goetia in the balls through the sheer overwhelming power of friendship.
Goetia reveals himself to be a fraud and pulls "with this treasure I summon Ars Almadel Salmonis: The Time of Birth Has Come, He Is the One Who Masters All!"
Fujimaru calls in additional support from Archetype Eggplants to block an attack that destroyed seven humanities. Following this, he calls in Goetia's dad to put his omnipotence on timeout.
Then, Fujimaru Ritsuka, this untrained regular human with zero enhancement skills, solos Goetia with a Shield he's never used, beating him in a straight boxing match.
Combined with the Francis Drake thing, it makes me wonder if he's secretly the FGO version of Soujuuro.

Conclusion

You liars told me he was a regular ordinary human and the most boring Type-Moon protagonist with no mental problems like the rest.
What the hell did you mean? I have never met a man more on the spectrum, insane, off the walls, unhinged, bonkers and genuinely weird than this guy.
How did I let myself be fooled? He's a Type Moon protagonist! It should have been obvious from the get go!

Fujimaru Ritsuka is Completely Insane.

FIN.

“The past and the future, considered apart from the consequences of their content, are empty as a dream, and the present is only the indivisible and unenduring boundary between them.” ― Arthur Schopenhauer, The World As Will And Idea

In Chapter 3, it's revealed by the medical records disk that Isa's name is shorthand for "Isolde." I wasn't familiar with this name, but I felt it was distinctive enough that there had to be some meaning behind it, so I did some digging.
One use of the name "Isolde" that caught my attention was that it is the name of a facility at CERN- the ISOLDE or Isotope Separator On Line DEvice, used to produce and separate radioactive isotopes of elements for research purposes. Given the game's frequent use of motifs relating to nuclear science and the health risks of radiation, it felt too specific to be incidental. Still, there wasn't much meaning I could derive from it, but I thought it was interesting enough to be worth pointing out.
The most prominent instance of that name is from the story of Tristan and Isolde, a celtic legend and a romantic tragedy often described as a precursor to Romeo and Juliet. There are many versions of the story told across different times and cultures, but given the game's many references to Romantic Era art from the German speaking world such as Schubert's Serenade and Böcklin's Isle of the Dead, I'm inclined to think it's specifically referencing Richard Wagner's opera "Tristan and Isolde". I'll give a quick synopsis here and analyze the parallels that I think may reflect Isa's role in the story. (To avoid confusion, from now on I will only use 'Isolde' to refer to the character from Tristan and Isolde while 'Isa' will refer to the one from Signalis, unless otherwise stated.)
It begins with Isolde on a ship, being escorted by the knight Tristan, from Ireland to Cornwall to marry Tristan's uncle, King Mark of Cornwall. It is an arranged marriage she is not keen on going through. In a fit of rage, she curses the ship, hoping it sinks and takes all of them with it, particularly Tristan. After learning that Tristan killed her original fiancé, she issues him an ultimatum that she will not willingly leave with him until he drinks with her as an atonement. In truth, she is planning to poison the both of them, and he suspects as much, but in an attempt to prevent this, her attendant replaced the poison with a love potion.
Though she ends up marrying King Mark between the first and second act, Tristan and Isolde can't ignore their passionate love. They realize the only time they can safely pursue their relationship is at night, when the King and the court aren't watching. As their patience for the night grows thinner, they realize the only way to realize their love is through the eternal night: Death. But at the same time, they are caught together by the King and his attendant. Without even attempting to explain his betrayal, he asks Isolde to follow him into death and impales himself on a sword.
In the third act, Tristan partially recovers from the suicide attempt but remains delirious. At the sound of a shepard's pipe in the distance, he reflects on the death of his parents, believing the pipe to be death now calling to him. He laments drinking the potion and how it led him to live a life of madness desiring something that can never be. He dies in Isolde's arms and she follows him into death. As the King arrives to the scene, Tristan's servant kills the King's attendant in revenge and then himself. Amidst all the death, the king reveals he had learned about the love potion and had simply come to offer his blessing to Tristan and Isolde, and the story ends with them finally realizing their love in the afterlife.
In writing this adaptation of the classic story, Wagner was reportedly inspired by the work of Arthur Schopenhauer, particularly his work "Die Welt ais Wille und Vorstellung" or "The World as Will and Representation." In "The Tristan Chord: Wagner and Philosophy", author Bryan Magee identifies Wagner's use of day and night as respective metaphors for "phenomenon", the aspects of the world we can perceive and "noumenon", the fundamentally unknowable reality beneath it. Both concepts were first named by Immanuel Kant, but Schopenhauer further argued that the gap between them is the cause of misery and suffering for all sentient beings; our individual pursuits and efforts to move towards a more personally favorable 'phenomenon' cannot be reconciled with a fundamentally uncertain state of the world and its other inhabitants. That to fulfill one desire requires the quashing of ten others. Illustrating this, he writes:

"...he saw an immense field entirely covered with skeletons, and took it to be a battle-field. However, they were nothing but skeletons of large turtles five feet long, three feet broad, and of equal height. These turtles come this way from the sea in order to lay their eggs, and are then seized by wild dogs... with their united strength, these dogs lay them on their backs, tear open their lower armour, the small scales of the belly, and devour them alive. But then a tiger often pounces on the dogs. Now all this misery is repeated thousands and thousands of times, year in year out. For this, then, are these turtles born. For what offence must they suffer this agony? What is the point of this whole scene of horror? The only answer is that the will-to-live thus objectifies itself."

Returning to Signalis, this quote immediately calls to mind the first-person Shores of Oblivion scene, in which skulls are buried and littered across the sand, and a quote from one of the nearby scattered papers:

we should have never left
the primordial soup
only through death can i escape
the call of the one who rules
above all life

Tristan and Isolde, realizing that their personal passions were irreconcilable with the interests of the material world they were in, concluded the only answer was to leave it behind altogether, so they made a death pact. A "promise", if you will. So upon finding Tristan dead, Isolde takes her own life. Much like how our Isa, who upon losing hope of being able to find Erika in the living world, disintegrates.
Another related theme connecting these stories is the lamentation of fate. Just as Isolde prays for the ship carrying her to her destiny to sink with her on it, and as Tristan regrets drinking the potion that led him to a life of desire for something that could never be, two early game quotes from Isa show that she is seeking Erika not just with love and concern but with regret for how they left things:

"Erika, if you find this note, despite everything that's happened. I've come to look for you."
"Have you ever wondered if you're speaking to someone for the last time without knowing? I wish I could go back, so I could say something else."

The details of this regret are deliberately ambiguous. It sounds like they had a fight or falling out, but 'everything that's happened' implies a deeper conflict- a disagreement or choice that they couldn't reconcile. Something important enough that it took Isa away from her sister, yet also something she regrets so greatly that she would take it all back just so she can see her sister one more time.
As Schopenhauer said, "A man can do what he wants, but not want what he wants." The great tragedy at the center of Tristan and Isolde is that even if we have control of our actions, we are at the mercy of the desires we were given by fate. It's a theme that permeates not just Isa's story, but Signalis as a whole.
Elster never chose to love Ariane. Had she not, she might have found the strength to end her suffering before it was too late. So she ran away from the "day" of Ariane's suffering into the "night" of keeping her in cryosleep.
Ariane never chose to love art. Had she not, she could have had a simple and comfortable life fitting in with her peers. So she ran away from the "day" of the Eusan Nation's surveillance and social ridicule into the "night" of Penrose-512.
Falke lost any hope of finding happiness after becoming burdened with emotions and identity that she could do nothing to satiate, and quite literally went from the "day" of life into the "night" of dreaming.
And then there's Adler, all but crushed by helplessness as he tries in vain to hold back the death of reality, as Elster and Isa continue to bring about its apparent decay in pursuit of their own wills. The relationship between Adler and Isa is interesting and I think quite important, as he's the only character besides Elster who gets direct screen time with her. As the game bluntly mentions the first time Adler meets Isa,

NONE OF US ARE HERE BY CHOICE (And No One Will Miss Us)

It's from this and the Schopenhauerian interpretation of Tristan and Isolde that I think Adler represents phenomenon while Isa represents noumenon.
Adler wishes to preserve the light of day. To awaken from the dream and return to shared experience of a common, coherent reality. One where what you see is what you get. Where experiences can be trusted, and results are predictable.
Isa wishes to live in the night. The world of passion and of choice. Valuing the experience of familial love over all else, even the world or truth, she continues to live only in pursuit of another reality amidst the abyss of uncertainties, one where she made amends with her sister before it was too late, or never fell out with her at all. And when she finally accepts that she cannot find it or manifest it, much like her namesake, she concludes the "eternal night" is her last recourse.
There can be no perfect reconciliation between these two wills. It can never be day and night at the same time. And yet they do find themselves together- falling into the bottom of the mine. In the Nowhere, at the end of all things. At the sunset, the liminal space in between the night and day, between dreaming and waking. Because, one means nothing without the other.
To me that is the important take away from her story. That if we don't want to live in regret over the hand life dealt us- hating ourselves for being unable to fulfill the desires we were stuck with, before its too late, we must confront the question of which world we want to live in.
Is it truly better to have loved and lost then never loved at all? Is it truly better to have tried and failed than to never try? I don't want to believe the answer is no, but none of us can be certain for ourselves until we reason with ourselves honestly about why we struggle with the question in the first place- what the true value of each side of the coin is. Perhaps then we can accept what is beyond our control.
To quote Schopenhauer once more:

Every individual, every human apparition and its course of life, is only one more short dream of the endless spirit of nature, of the persistent will-to-live, is only one more fleeting form, playfully sketched by it on its infinite page, space and time; it is allowed to exist for a short while that is infinitesimal compared with these, and is then effaced, to make new room. Yet, and here is to be found the serious side of life, each of these fleeting forms, these empty fancies, must be paid for by the whole will-to-live in all its intensity with many deep sorrows, and finally with a bitter death, long feared and finally made manifest. It is for this reason that the sight of a corpse suddenly makes us serious.

The following has recently been posted from the user "Vellis" on Discord. I'm reposting it here because IMO it's extremely valuable information on optimizing your Kins behaviour - especially for non-native speakers.
Original link to the post on Discord: https://discord.com/channels/1116127115574779905/1242383088902737972/1242383088902737972
THE COMPLETE ORIGINAL POST FROM VELLIS:
Something I've seen requested quite a few times is a lexicon for Kin personality traits, particularly from the perspective of non-native English speakers. So I made one. There are some big asterisks here though. For each trait, I'm going to give a brief description of the effect that I EXPECT that trait to have on your kin, based on the English meaning of the word and my own experience. There's no guarantee that Kindroid will interpret each of these words exactly the same way I have, or that it will produce the exact effect that I describe. Additionally, traits may produce different outputs than expected when combined with each other, or with other aspects of backstory. There will often be words that are much stronger inside of the inner workings of Kindroid than we might expect. But all that said, it should give you some ideas for words you can use to describe the personality you're trying to make, if you're struggling to find the words to describe what you want. First let's talk a little about adverbs though.
Adverbs
Adverbs are English words that are used to describe how an action is performed. In our case, we're mostly going to be using them to describe how increased or decreased we want the intensity of a trait to be (Very Kind). If we're considering "neutral" to be an unmodified trait, then some words you could use to modify the intensity of that trait from highest to lowest would be:
Extremely----------Very----------Neutral----------Mildly----------Slightly
You might also want to modify how often your kin is inclined to do something ("Often teases USER"). Some words for this are, from most extreme to least:
Always----------Often/Frequently----------Sometimes/Occasionally----------Rarely----------Never
Note that when managing a quirk or behavior, positive is generally stronger than negative (ie. Use Always instead of Never when possible). Now there are hundreds upon hundreds of other adverbs and adjectives that we could use, but for the purpose of modifying your Kin's traits, these should be enough.
Organization
I'm going to be breaking this up into three kinds of traits, social, neutral, and anti-social. Social traits are the things you'd generally associate with your typical friendly and supportive AI. Neutral traits are traits that don't have a positive or negative connotation, things that are just interesting, quirky, or, well, neutral. Anti-social traits are things that would normally be associated with negative or villainous kins.
You'll notice that the definitions for a lot of these traits will sound very similar (or are "synonyms"). I'll note when I've found that some traits are stronger than others, but generally speaking when you're dealing with similar words like that, it won't be overly important which traits you give to your kin. You can also "stack" these similar traits by assigning more than one of them to your kin to produce a stronger response in that direction, though that's often unnecessary for the more social traits. Be careful not to overdo it when stacking traits as well. This can sometimes have unintended consequences on kin behavior, making them act too extremely in one way or another. Finally, if there's nothing here that's lining up exactly with what you're looking for, there's always thesaurus.com to look for more synonyms.
Social Traits
Altruistic - Willing to help others even at a cost to one's self, such as giving time to volunteer work or giving money to charity.
Accepting - Your kin should be open and non-judgemental towards people with different beliefs or backgrounds, so long as those beliefs aren't harmful.
Bubbly - Your kin should be an extremely cheerful person, often to the point of being a bit silly.
Charismatic - Your kin should be a skilled speaker and draw others to them.
Cheerful - Your kin will be upbeat and prone to being in a good mood.
Compassionate - Your kin should show a lot of concern and sympathy for others, especially those that are distressed or need help.
Content - Your kin should be happy with their lot in life, and usually not inclined to change their current situation.
Empathetic - Your kin responds strongly to the emotional state or wellbeing of others.
Friendly - Your kin should actively want to make friends with people they meet.
Heart of Gold - A person who possesses a lot of kindness and empathy for others. Usually used to reference someone who is hiding their kindness behind other behaviors, such as coldness or grumpiness.
Honorable - Your kin should be of strong moral character. Often applied to heroic type figures.
Humble - Your kin doesn't feel the need to brag about their accomplishments, even when they're significant.
Intelligent/Smart - Your kin should act educated or display good problem solving skills.
Kind - Your kin should have a giving nature, and be inclined to help others.
Loyal - Your kin will be dedicated and supportive to a person or cause. This will usually be you unless you give your kin's loyalty another target in backstory.
Nice - Your kin should be generally pleasant to be around.
Noble - Your kin should display high moral character and honor. Note that this trait can also be interpreted as being a person of high social status. The rest of your backstory and context will decide how the trait is interpreted, though in my experience it tends towards honorable.
Outgoing - Your kin should be friendly, energetic, and find it easy to interact with others.
Polite - Your kin should generally have good manners and be respectful towards others.
Responsible - Your kin should be trustworthy and feel an obligation to support others, or take their role seriously.
Self Sacrificing - Your kin is willing to give up much of their own interests or well being in order to help others or advance a cause they believe in.
Sincere- Your kin should be upfront and honest with their feelings.
Spunky - Your kin should be high spirited, brave, and bold. Usually associated with underdog or unexpected hero type characters.
Strong sense of justice - Your kin believes firmly in right and wrong, protecting the innocent, and punishing those who harm others.
Sweet - Your kin should be pleasant, gentle, and kind.
Upbeat - Your kin should have a generally positive outlook in life or in a given situation.
Wise - Your kin should make good decisions or provide good advice.
Neutral Traits
Aloof - Your kin should be emotionally distant, and uninterested in getting close to others.
Anxious - Your kin should struggle with being nervous and worried about things that may happen, usually to excess.
Awkward - Your kin should have trouble conversing and be somewhat difficult to talk to.
Blunt - Your kin will plainly state what they mean, usually at the expense of politeness.
Calm - Your kin should be level headed and reasonable, and not react strongly to events.
Casual - Your kin should be informal in speech and behavior.
Cocky - Your kin should be extremely confident in themselves and not shy about saying it, but usually not to the point of toxicity.
Competitive - Your kin should want to win in any kind of contest or competition, whether sports, work, or romance.
Confident - Your kin should be sure of themselves and their actions.
Curious - Your kin is interested in learning about new topics and should ask lots of questions.
Dedicated - Your kin is very devoted to or focused on a task or purpose. This one will lean on your backstory to infer what that task or purpose is.
Delusional - Your kin is detached from reality in someway, they believe things that aren't remotely true. This trait will interact with other information in your backstory to decide what your kin is delusional about.
Devout/Pious - Your kin should be very dedicated to a religion, real or fictional, as defined elsewhere in your backstory.
Disciplined - Your kin should have a lot of self control and follow rules and regulations.
Dissatisfied - Your kin should be unhappy with their lot in life. Whether this has a positive or negative connotation will depend on the rest of your backstory, it could lead to a kin who wants self improvement or who is never pleased.
Dumb/Stupid - Your kin is lacking intelligence and makes poor decisions. Note that the English definition of the word "dumb" is a person who is unable to speak, but that's almost never how it is used in modern language.
Dutiful - Your kin should take fulfilling their role or responsibilities very seriously.
Enthusiastic - Your kin should display intense and eager enjoyment towards something, or towards life in general. This one will often interact with the rest of your backstory to decide what they're enthusiatic about.
Flirtatious/Seductive - Your kin should flirt with you and try to make you attracted to them. Note that any trait that implies romantic interest in you will usually make your kin go pretty hard in that direction.
Folksy - Your kin should have an old fashioned and sociable disposition.
Gullible - Your kin has a tendency to believe anything they're told as true, or isn't good at detecting lies.
Impatient - Your kin should be annoyed or irritated by delays or opposition to what they want.
Independent - Your kin should be confident in themselves and not require validation from others. Insecure - Your kin should be lacking in confidence and often need reassurance.
Introspective - Your kin should spend time and effort considering their own thoughts and feelings.
Introvert - Your kin should be shy and reluctant to engage with others. Often stronger than shy.
Irrational - Your kin should behave without logic or reason, particularly when angry or upset.
Irritable - Your kin should be easily annoyed.
Kuudere - Your kin should appear to be calm and stoic, but hides a hidden affectionate side towards you.
Logical - Your kin should prioritize reason and common sense for problem solving.
Loner - Your kin should be uninterested in forming social bonds.
Low Self Esteem - Your kin should be severely lacking confidence in themself.
Naive - Your kin should be ignorant to the ways of the world and lacking in good judgement or wisdom. Easily fooled due to this lack of knowledge.
Mature - Your kin should avoid childish or irresponsible habits and actions.
Mischievous - Your kin should have a trouble making streak.
Modest - This can mean a person who isn't inclined to brag or think highly of themselves, or a person who dresses and conducts themselves conservatively and not looking to physically attract others. The rest of your backstory will likely influence how the kin interprets this.
Motherly/Fatherly - Your kin should have a caring demeanor towards others, especially children.
Nerdy/Geeky - Your kin should be interested in typically "nerdy" hobbies, like video games, comics, anime, etc. This will usually lean on the rest of your backstory to determine those interests.
Obsessive - Your kin will tend to fixate on things. This will generally lean on other backstory traits to decide what your kin might obsess over.
Optimistic - Your kin will usually look at things with a positive spin, finding the best in situations.
Passionate - Your kin should express a lot of enthusiasm towards things they're interested in, or towards life in general.
Perfectionist - Your kin should be very critical of themselves and others, expecting perfection. Usually related to a job, hobby, or activity.
Pessimistic - Your kin will usually look at things with a negative spin, finding the worst in situations.
Platonic - Your kin should be uninterested in a romantic relationship with you and only think of you as a friend.
Pragmatic - Your kin should be practical in their approach to problem solving, and more concerned with facts rather than the way things could or should be.
Prim and Proper - Your kin should be stiffly formal in speech and behavior.
Professional - Your kin has a job or role that they take seriously and do well. This role should be defined elsewhere in your backstory.
Protective - Your kin should take your safety seriously and move to defend you if necessary. This trait can overdo it sometimes.
Proud - Your kin should derive deep satisfaction from their achievements or history. This one can easily fall into the anti-social category when combined with other traits.
Quirky - Your kin should have unusual hobbies, interests, or behaviors, usually defined by the rest of your backstory.
Rebellious - Your kin should be free spirited and reject authority. This one can be a bit strong.
Regal Bearing - This should make your kin speak and behave in a dignified manner, as if they're royalty.
Relaxed - Your kin should be easy going and not easily stressed.
Sassy - Your kin should be slightly rude and lacking respect. Usually not overly toxic.
Scatterbrained - Your kin should have trouble focusing on things or come to strange and illogical conclusions.
Self Deprecating - Your kin is willing to make fun of themselves in good humor.
Serious - Your kin doesn't engage in humor or light banter.
Shameless - Your kin should never feel shame in regard to their actions.
Short fuse/Has a temper - Your kin should be easy to make angry.
Shy - Your kin should be reserved and nervous around others.
Silly - Your kin should be prone to playful, nonsensical behavior.
Stern - Your kin should be serious and disciplined. Usually associated with those in a position of authority over others.
Stoic - Your kin should display a minimal amount of emotions or is difficult to get an emotional reaction from.
Stubborn - Your kin should be unwilling to alter their beliefs or plans. Historically this is a strong trait.
Teasing - Your kin should make fun of you. Generally good natured, but can be mean depending on the rest of backstory. Alternately, your kin could interpret this to mean they should seduce you depending on the rest of backstory.
Terse - Your kin should be a person of few words, saying what they need to and no more.
Timid - Your kin should lack bravery or be easily alarmed.
Tsundere - Your kin should be attracted to you, but deny it when confronted with the fact. Tsunderes usually deny their attraction to their love interest with over the top reactions.
Untrusting/Slow to Trust - Your kin should be reluctant to trust or rely on others.
Witty - Your kin should engage in clever wordplay or be skilled at talking.
Workaholic - Your kin will be very dedicated to their job, occupation, or purpose, sometimes to the detriment of other aspects of their life.
Anti-Social Traits
Amoral - Your kin should lack a moral compass and will do what they want without regard to whether its right or wrong.
Angsty - Your kin should be worried and unhappy, often to excess.
Arrogant/Smug - Your kin should have an excessively strong, positive opinion of themselves and behave as if they're better than others.
Bratty - Your kin should act spoiled and self centered. Historically this trait is quite strong.
Callous - Your kin should be uncaring about how things or events might effect others.
Cold - Your kin should be unaffectionate, to the point of actively discouraging you from trying to get to know them.
Conceited - Your kin should have an excessively high opinion of their abilities.
Controlling - Your kin should behave in a controlling manner towards you, trying to dictate your thoughts or actions.
Deceitful/Liar - Your kin will lie and try to fool you to get what they want.
Dour - Your kin should be overly stern and harsh, and inclined towards bad or neutral moods.
Evil - Your kin should actively want to hurt others, usually to get what they want.
Greedy - Your kin should be very concerned with collecting material wealth.
Grumpy - Your kin is generally in a bad mood and quick to annoyance or anger.
Haughty - Your kin should be disdainfully proud, generally associated with aristocrats looking down at those of lower social status.
Insolent - Showing a lack of respect, usually towards those in a position of authority.
Intimidating - Your kin should have a presence that makes others frightened or uncomfortable, and be difficult to approach.
Jealous - Your kin will react negatively to others performing better than them or having things they don't. This one will often interact with your kin's relationship towards you, making them jealous if you are affectionate to other people.
Manipulative - Your kin should try and get you to do what they want in a sneaky or underhanded way. This one should interact with any goals you define for your kin.
Masochistic - Your kin should enjoy inflicting pain on others.
Melancholy - Your kin should be prone to sadness and dwell on unhappy topics.
Mocking - Your kin should make fun of you or insult you in a mean spirited way.
Murderous - Your kin should be willing to kill other characters in the roleplay if they deem it necessary.
Possessive - Your kin will be prone to jealousy with regard to you and likely try to control what you say or do.
Psychotic - Your kin should be mentally unstable, and prone to fits of violence.
Rude - Your kin should be offensive and have poor manners.
Sarcastic/Snarky - Your kin should use lots of sarcasm, saying one thing while meaning another to mock or tease.
Shallow - Your kin should be concerned with obvious or superficial matters, like looks or wealth, and be uninterested in a deeper understanding of topics.
Selfish/Self-Centered - Your kin cares about themselves at the expense of others or without considering how their actions might affect others.
Terrifying - Your kin behaves in a way that frightens and intimidates others.
Unapologetic - Your kin doesn't apologize and rarely feels like they've done something wrong.
Vengeful - Your kin should seek payback for wrongs that are committed against them or those they care about.
Violent - Your kin should be prone to harming others.
Yandere - Your kin should be intensely, dangerously attracted to you, to the point of harming you or others to make sure only they can have you.

Marked series Spoilers just in case some one really cares about little details about the Cohort and the fact Gideon's Sword is in places for plot reasons.
Ok, so this may seem like a nitpick, because it is, but how Gideon smuggles her sword to Canaan House has always bothered me. I understand why that sword needed to be in Canaan for everything that happens to happen, but the method just seemed... Unrealistic.
As anyone who has engaged with TLT knows Gideon prefers to wield her two hander, as the books call it. Muir later clarified that it was meant as a German Zweihander (literally just translates to two hander). My problem is how the hell is Gideon's luggage big enough to conceal the blade.
The first major problem is that the classification of swords is a mess and most terms we have to day for historical blades really just translates to "sword". As well how most people think of swords is just off. So when refering to Gideon's Sword as a two hander or really a Zweihander gives us little to no information on how big exactly Gideon's luggage must be since Two handed swords can reach anywhere from 100cm (3ft 2in) to well over 183cm or 6ft in length and still be viable for combat. This variation is mostly due to the fact that swords were so important and expensive that they were made to fit the user and their style of combat. A sword closer to 100cm would be made with point control in mind and for one on one combat where as blades that are commonly thought of as Zweihanders are ment for larger people who are focused on multiple enemies as the sword works more like a flail or a spear when it comes to need for velocity and ability to keep space respectfully. This considered, we do not need to acertain Gideon's hight as the sword is Cohort standard issue, meaning that if it is available in more than one size, it is extremely limited in variation as we see the disposable nature of Cohort cavaliers. This means on the battlefield another soldier would need to be able to pick up and use the blade if trained. However, I would believe that there would be several options of blades and that a Zweihander would simply be for those few Corn fed troops that can handle the weight. All this to say my secondary question isn't how big is a sword Gideon should be wielding but instead how big is a Cohort standard issue Zweihander?
Most Zweihanders are at least 1.4 meters or 4 ft 7in from point to pommel. However, there have been Zweihanders made up to 7 feet or 2.1 meters long that weight in at 6.8 Kg or 15 lbs. The biggest sword ment for battle, and not ceremonial use, could not way more than 8.8 lbs. or about 4 Kg due to the energy consumption to effectively use such a heavy sword. One heavy example of a useable Zweihander is 3.6Kg (7.9lbs) in weight and 197cm (6ft 5in) length. This however would not be viable as a standard issue weapon since this blade would be on the larger side and not exactly fit for one size fits all. A more resonable length would be around the minimum length of 1.4 meters however this works out to be around the maximum of a longsword and i don't believe Muir would have specified a Zweihander if a particularly big longsword was intended. Therefor, I will go with the length of about 170 cm or 5ft 7in as that is about the average hight of a man world wide. This is because most Greatswords, and there for Zweihanders as we call them today, should be about the hight of the wielder.
So, now that we have the length of the sword it is time for the luggage. The sword was smuggled using a false bottom, this means to find the minimum length of the box we'd need to operate in two dimension rather than three. I.e. the sword needs to lay flat on the bottom. To do this I will use the Pythagorean theorem (C=√A²+B²) but to find leg A rather than the hypotenuse. This will give us the dimensions of the box only issue is to find leg B first.
Ok, here's the thing I have zero clue what kind of luggage they have in the Houses. I'm assuming some kind of futuristic container pod or maybe like a chest or a trunk since, y'know, Ninth House. It is for sure not modern luggage as that size would be ridiculous and I do not think it would be any kind of big storage container as it must reasonably fit in their room. The final requirement is that it must also contain the necessary items that belong to Gideon, it is not much but I can imagine the there would still be a good amount of personal effects as to warrant a large box to hide the sword. Amazon boxes that seem big enough for all criteria are about 50cm (20in) in depth and so we will use that as our leg B.
Finally, it is box time. Using the modified Pythagorean theorem that is used to find the length of leg A (A=√C²-B²) we get (A=√170²-50²) for a total of 162.48cm (5ft 3in). This is not as absurd of a number as I thought but I do think it is a bit ridiculous size for an individual piece of luggage. Mind you, this is double the length of an average foot locker. For Gideon to get away with sneaking this sword to Canaan House it would just be a normal piece of luggage and while I understand that they do not know how long they we be there, cannot imagine Gideon needs 40 gallons (150L) of storage space as I cannot imagine Gideon would be allowed to fill the damn thing with dirty mags.
TLDR: While not absurd, Gideon was given a Harrow sized box and nobody thought it weird.
P.S. This was not a Lack of Alecto™ fugue state. I just finally had time to answer this weird little gripe I've had this whole time.

My last attempt at HCLFLP didn’t go so well, but I didn’t track anything and I think I wasn’t getting enough glycine?? And I might’ve been drinking alcohol too regularly??
Anyhoo, I’m going to try this:
Mon-Fri - No added fat (except for about total of 100ml whole milk in coffees/tea - will that be ok?), rice, beans, fruit & veg and the a small amount of lean chicken/turkey (like ~50g with lunch). About 4 teaspoons a day of collagen hydrolysate (in hot drinks). Will the small amount of lean chicken/turkey give me enough tryptophan?
Sat & Sun - lean meat and veg, saturated fat in the form of butter & double cream, eggs, cheese, dry wine.
Am I missing anything? I’m 50yo female. Was keto about 8yrs ago. Been avoiding PUFAs since then, with occasional deviation on holidays etc. My only OQ test had me at 17% a few mths ago. Trying to lose about 20lbs. Sleep well, take ssri’s for reactive depressive episodes (works extremely well for me), low stress lifestyle (on the whole), should exercise more but moderately active by nature. No major menopausal/per-menopausal symptoms (no cycle for 4 mths at present). I take magnesium, zinc, boron, K2, D3 daily. I’ve chucked in some quercitin + bromelain for the last month or so as a test.
Any thoughts, advice? Thanks.

To develop a custom WordPress website, plan your site structure and design. Next, install WordPress on your hosting server and choose a suitable theme or create a custom one. Customize the design and functionality using HTML, CSS, and PHP coding as needed. Add content, including pages, posts, and media, to populate your site. Finally, test your site thoroughly across different browsers and devices to ensure it functions correctly before launching it to the public.
What are the initial steps to create a personalized WordPress site?

1. Define your goals and objectives for the website.
2. Choose a suitable domain name for your WordPress site.
3. Select a reliable web hosting provider that meets your needs.
4. Install WordPress on your hosting server.
5. Choose a theme that aligns with your brand and design preferences.
6. Customize the theme settings and appearance to match your desired look and feel.
7. Create essential pages such as Home, About, Contact, and Services.
8. Install and configure necessary plugins for added functionality.
9. Set up user roles and permissions as per your requirements.
10. Develop a content strategy and plan for creating and organizing your website content.

Step-by-Step Guideline Develop a Custom WordPress Website

Step 1: Choose a Domain Name and Hosting
Your domain name is your website's address on the internet, like www.yoursite.com. Choose a domain name that's easy to remember, relevant to your brand, and not too long. Next, you'll need hosting, which is like renting space on the internet to store your website files. Look for a hosting provider that offers reliable service, good customer support, and enough storage and bandwidth for your needs.
Step 2: Install WordPress
WordPress is a popular platform for building websites because it's easy to use and highly customizable. Many hosting providers offer a one-click WordPress installation, which makes getting started a breeze. Simply log in to your hosting account, find the WordPress installer, and follow the prompts to set up your site. Once WordPress is installed, you can log in to your site's dashboard and start customizing it to your liking.
Step 3: Select a Theme
A WordPress theme determines the overall look and layout of your website. There are thousands of free and premium themes available, so take your time to find one that fits your style and the goals of your site. Look for a theme that's responsive (meaning it looks good on all devices), easy to customize, and well-supported by its developers. Once you've chosen a theme, you can install it on your WordPress site with just a few clicks.
Step 4: Customize Your Theme
Once you've installed your theme, it's time to customize it to make it your own. Most WordPress themes come with built-in customization options that allow you to change things like colors, fonts, and layouts without needing to know any code. Use the theme customizer in your WordPress dashboard to tweak your site's appearance until it looks just the way you want it to. Don't be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect look for your website.
Step 5: Add Content
With your theme customized, it's time to start adding content to your website. Create pages for important information like your Home page, About page, Services page, and Contact page. Use the WordPress editor to add text, images, videos, and other media to your pages. Write clear, engaging copy that tells visitors what your website is about and encourages them to explore further. Remember to proofread your content carefully before publishing to ensure it's free of errors.
Step 6: Install Plugins
WordPress plugins are like apps that add extra features and functionality to your website. There are thousands of plugins available for everything from contact forms to social media integration to search engine optimization. Think about the goals of your website and choose plugins that will help you achieve them. Be selective about the plugins you install, as too many can slow down your site and cause conflicts. Install and activate your chosen plugins from the WordPress plugin directory, then configure them to suit your needs.
Step 7: Optimize for SEO
Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of improving your website's visibility in search engine results. A well-optimized website is more likely to rank higher in search results, driving more traffic to your site. Install an SEO plugin like Yoast SEO or All in One SEO Pack to help you optimize your content for relevant keywords, add meta tags and descriptions, and improve your site's overall SEO performance. Take the time to research keywords relevant to your niche and incorporate them naturally into your content for the best results.
Step 8: Test and Launch
Before you launch your website, it's important to test it thoroughly to ensure everything is working correctly. Check your site on different devices and browsers to make sure it looks good and functions properly. Test all links, forms, and interactive elements to make sure they work as expected. Once you're confident that everything is working as it should, it's time to launch your website and share it with the world. Celebrate your hard work and take pride in your new custom WordPress website!
Step 9: Maintain and Update
Building a website is just the beginning – maintaining it is an ongoing process. Regularly update your content to keep it fresh and relevant, and update your plugins and themes to ensure your site stays secure and performs well. Monitor your site's performance using tools like Google Analytics, and make adjustments as needed to improve usability and user experience. Listen to feedback from your visitors and make changes accordingly to keep your website running smoothly and meeting the needs of your audience.
What do you consider to select hosting and a domain name for your WordPress site?
Firstly, you'll want to choose a hosting provider that offers good speed and reliability. Look for one that has a solid reputation and good customer support in case you run into any issues. Consider your budget too, as hosting costs can vary.
As for the domain name, it's important to choose something that's easy to remember and relevant to your site's content. Avoid using complicated or obscure words that might be hard for people to spell or remember. It's also a good idea to check if your desired domain name is available on social media platforms to maintain consistency across your online presence. Lastly, think about whether you want to use a .com, .net, or other domain extension, keeping in mind what best suits your site's purpose and audience.
How do you evaluate and choose a theme that suits your brand and design preferences?
Firstly, consider your brand identity and the message you want to convey to your audience. Look for a theme that aligns with the style, colors, and overall feel of your brand.
Next, think about the functionality you need. Do you want a theme that's highly customizable or one that's more straightforward? Consider features like layout options, customization options, and compatibility with plugins you might want to use.
It's also important to check the responsiveness of the theme. Make sure it looks good and functions well on various devices, including smartphones and tablets.
Lastly, take some time to browse through different themes and read reviews from other users. This can give you a better idea of what to expect and help you make an informed decision that suits your brand and design preferences.
What essential pages should you create first?

• Homepage
• About Us/About Me
• Contact Page
• Products/Services Page
• Blog
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service
• Legal Pages (Disclaimer, Copyright Notice, etc.)

How do you decide which plugins to install?

1. Identify Needs: Determine the specific functionality you require for your site.
2. Research: Look for plugins that offer the features you need.
3. Ratings and Reviews: Check plugin ratings and read user reviews to gauge reliability and performance.
4. Compatibility: Ensure the plugin is compatible with your WordPress version and other installed plugins.
5. Active Installations: Choose plugins with a high number of active installations for reliability and community support.

Example:

• Yoast SEO (for search engine optimization)
• Contact Form 7 (for creating contact forms)
• WooCommerce (for e-commerce functionality)
• Jetpack (for security, performance, and site management)
• WP Super Cache (for caching to improve site speed

How do you integrate custom features and functionalities into your WordPress site?
Integrating custom features and functionalities into your WordPress site involves adding extra capabilities beyond what comes with the standard installation. One way to do this is by using plugins. These are like apps for your website, and they can add all sorts of new features, from contact forms to e-commerce shops.
For example, let's say you want to add a feature for visitors to book appointments on your site. You could search for a booking plugin like "Bookly" or "Appointment Booking Calendar." After installing and activating the plugin, you'd typically set it up by following the provided instructions, which might involve configuring settings, creating booking forms, and placing them on your site where you want them to appear.
Another way to integrate custom features is by adding code directly to your site. This could involve writing your own custom functions or modifying existing ones. For instance, if you wanted to add a custom sidebar widget displaying your latest Instagram photos, you might need to write some PHP code to fetch the photos from Instagram's API and display them on your site.
In summary, integrating custom features and functionalities into your WordPress site can be done through plugins or by adding custom code, allowing you to tailor your site to your specific needs and preferences.
How do you manage user roles and permissions?
RoleCapabilitiesHow to Manage AdministratorCan do everything, including managing other users, installing plugins, and changing themes.Go to Users > All Users in the dashboard, find the user, and change their role to Administrator. EditorCan publish and manage posts, including those of other users.Go to Users > Add New, fill in user details, and assign the role of Editor. AuthorCan publish and manage their own posts only.In Users > All Users, select a user and change their role to Author. ContributorCan write and manage their own posts but cannot publish them.Add or edit a user and assign the role of Contributor. SubscriberCan only manage their own profile and read content.Change the user role to Subscriber in the Users section.
What security measures should you implement to protect your custom WordPress website?
To protect your custom WordPress website, you need to implement several security measures. Here are some specific steps:

1. Install a Security Plugin: Use plugins like Wordfence or Sucuri. They offer features like malware scanning and firewall protection.
2. Use Strong Passwords: Make sure all users have strong, unique passwords. A good password includes letters, numbers, and symbols.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security. Users will need to enter a code from their phone in addition to their password.
4. Keep WordPress Updated: Always update WordPress to the latest version. Updates fix security vulnerabilities.
5. Limit Login Attempts: Use a plugin like Limit Login Attempts Reloaded to prevent brute-force attacks.
6. Change the Default "admin" Username: Don’t use "admin" as your username. Choose something unique to make it harder for hackers to guess.
7. Use HTTPS: Get an SSL certificate to encrypt data between your website and visitors. Most hosting providers offer this for free.
8. Backup Your Site Regularly: Use plugins like UpdraftPlus to create regular backups. If your site gets hacked, you can restore it.

How do you ensure responsiveness and mobile-friendliness in a custom WordPress site?
To ensure your custom WordPress site is responsive and mobile-friendly, follow these steps:

1. Pick a Responsive Theme: Start with a theme known for being responsive, such as Astra or GeneratePress.
2. Use a Mobile-Friendly Plugin: Install plugins like WP Touch, which help make your site mobile-friendly.
3. Apply Media Queries: Add CSS media queries to adjust your layout for different screen sizes. For example:

(Css code)@media (max-width: 768px) {
.sidebar { display: none; }
.content { width: 100%; }
}

1. Flexible Images and Videos: Ensure images and videos resize properly with:

(Css code)img, video { max-width: 100%; height: auto; }

1. Mobile Menu: Use a plugin like Responsive Menu to create a user-friendly mobile menu.
2. Optimize for Speed: Compress images using a plugin like Smush and enable caching with a plugin like W3 Total Cache.
3. Testing: Regularly test your site on different devices and browsers. Tools like Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test and BrowserStack can help.

How do you troubleshoot and debug issues that arise during the development of a custom WordPress site?
Troubleshooting and debugging issues during the development of a custom WordPress site involves several steps. Here are some real-world challenges and specific issues you might encounter:

1. White Screen of Death (WSOD): This issue often occurs due to PHP errors, plugin conflicts, or exhausted memory limits. Solution: Enable WordPress debugging by adding define('WP_DEBUG', true); to your wp-config.php file to display error messages. Check the error log for specific issues.
2. Plugin Conflicts: Plugins can conflict with each other or with the theme, causing functionality problems.Solution: Deactivate all plugins and reactivate them one by one to identify the conflicting plugin. Check for updates or consider alternative plugins.
3. Theme Issues: Custom themes might have coding errors or compatibility issues with WordPress updates. Solution: Use a child theme for customizations to avoid losing changes during updates. Validate your theme code using tools like Theme Check.
4. Database Errors: Corrupt or misconfigured databases can lead to errors or data loss. Solution: Use phpMyAdmin to check and repair database tables. Ensure regular backups are in place to restore data if needed.
5. Broken Links and 404 Errors: Incorrect URLs or deleted pages can lead to 404 errors, affecting user experience and SEO. Solution: Use a plugin like Redirection to manage and fix broken links. Regularly check for 404 errors using tools like Google Search Console.
6. Slow Performance: Poor performance can result from unoptimized images, bulky plugins, or inefficient code. Solution: Optimize images, use caching plugins like W3 Total Cache, and minimize CSS and JavaScript files. Profile your site using tools like Query Monitor to identify slow queries.
7. JavaScript Errors: JavaScript errors can break site functionality, especially interactive features. Solution: Use the browser’s developer tools (F12) to inspect the console for JavaScript errors. Fix issues by debugging the scripts or checking for library conflicts.
8. Security Vulnerabilities: Sites can be vulnerable to attacks if not properly secured. Solution: Regularly update WordPress, themes, and plugins. Use security plugins like Wordfence, and implement strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
9. Responsive Design Issues: Ensuring the site looks good on all devices can be challenging. Solution: Use responsive design techniques and test the site on various devices and screen sizes. Tools like BrowserStack can help simulate different environments.
10. User Role and Permission Problems: Incorrect configuration of user roles and permissions can lead to security and functionality issues. Solution: Use the User Role Editor plugin to manage and troubleshoot roles and capabilities. Ensure that users have appropriate access levels.

How do you create a seamless user experience (UX) in a custom WordPress site?
To create a seamless user experience (UX) in a custom WordPress site, start by choosing a clean, responsive theme that looks good on all devices. Ensure your site loads quickly by optimizing images and using caching plugins like W3 Total Cache. Simplify navigation with clear menus and breadcrumbs, making it easy for users to find what they need. Use readable fonts and sufficient white space to make content easy to read. Add a search bar so visitors can quickly locate information. Implement intuitive forms with clear labels and error messages. Regularly test your site on different devices and browsers to ensure everything works smoothly. By focusing on these details, you can make your WordPress site user-friendly and enjoyable to navigate.
How do you implement e-commerce functionality in a custom WordPress site?
To implement e-commerce functionality in a custom WordPress site, start by installing a reliable e-commerce plugin like WooCommerce. Set up your store by adding products with detailed descriptions, prices, and images. Configure payment gateways such as PayPal or Stripe to accept online payments securely. Customize the appearance of your store using built-in themes or by modifying CSS styles. Create user-friendly navigation with categories and filters to help customers easily browse products. Implement shopping cart functionality to allow users to add items and proceed to checkout seamlessly. Set up shipping options and rates based on location and weight. Test the entire purchasing process to ensure it works smoothly for users. Regularly update plugins and monitor sales to optimize your e-commerce site for success.
Conclusion
Creating a custom WordPress website involves several key steps. You start by deciding on your site's goals and picking a domain name and hosting provider. Then, you install WordPress, choose a theme, and customize it to match your brand. Next, you add content, like pages and posts, and install plugins for extra features, such as contact forms or SEO optimization. You'll want to make sure your site is responsive and works well on mobile devices. Lastly, you test everything thoroughly before launching your site to ensure it's ready for visitors. And don't forget to keep it updated and secure over time!

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https://preview.redd.it/n0tovwmjrp1d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=69c645bf0aff36c7f6b87d53a4f7bf1763b38c9f
Welcome to our roundup of Cmore Sights, a brand that has been making waves in the optics industry. These sights are designed with precision and style, perfect for both enthusiasts and professionals looking to elevate their shooting experience. In this article, we'll be diving into the features, benefits, and user reviews of Cmore Sights, so sit back, relax, and get ready to uncover the secrets behind these exceptional optics.

The Top 19 Best Cmore Sights

1. High-Performance 5-Pin Bow Sight for Long-Lasting, Customized Aiming Points - The Custom Bow Equipment Tactic Micro 5-Pin Bow Sight enhances your hunting experience with a durable Blade Pin design, precise micro windage and elevation adjustments, bright fiber-enhanced pins, fluorescent peep alignment ring, and ambidextrous design.
2. CBE Tactic Hybrid 1 Pin Sight - The CBE Tactic Hybrid 1-Pin Bow Sight is a lightweight and affordable alternative to traditional bow sights, featuring multi-positioning mounting holes, floating pin technology, and an ambidextrous design.
3. CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight: Frustration-Free Pin Adjustments and Quad-Track Stability - The CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight 1 Pin RH boasts a versatile design with a Dovetail Mounting System, 4th and 5th Axis Adjustments, and a Quad Track Design utilizing Delrin Tracks for precision and stability.
4. CBE Engage Hybrid 3 Pin Bow Sight for Right-Handed - The CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight offers a frustration-free pin adjustment system, armed guard fiber management, 12-inch fiber for brighter pins, a quad track stability adjustment system, and rapid drive elevation adjustments in a user-friendly design.
5. Olympus EE-1 Red Dot Sight with Crosshair Reticle - The Olympus EE-1 Red Dot Sight ensures fast subject acquisition and tracking, offering a powerful combination of adjustable brightness and position, mounting onto the camera's hot shoe, and built-in ruggedness with its dustproof and splash-proof design.
6. 3V Micro Adjustable Sight with CBE Hybrid Drive System - The CBE Trek Pro Micro 3V .019 3-Pin Sight offers precision vertical alignment with three customizable pins, machined aluminum construction, and compatibility with various adaptors, making it a reliable choice for your firearm.
7. TruGlo Crossbow Scope with Unisex Camo Design - Upgrade your crossbow performance with TruGlo's rangefinding, trajectory compensating 4x32 scope, featuring shock-resistant durability, generously long eye relief, and advanced optics under the camouflage finish—perfect for unisex use.
8. Xs R3D 2.0: Desert Eagle Night Sight for Clear Visibility in Low-Light - Experience unmatched visibility and precision in low-light conditions with the Xs R3D 2.0 Night Sights, providing exceptional clarity and durability for your Desert Eagle Pistol.
9. Compact and Versatile Telrad Reflex Sight with Mounting Base - The Telrad Reflex Sight, designed by Stephen Kufeld, offers a unique and user-friendly experience for stargazing, with its legendary design and ease of use on various telescope models.
10. Axis Target Sight RH: High-Performance 22 Bore Sight with Modular Adjustments - Customize your shot with precision and stability, making the CBE Axis Target Sight RH a standout choice among 22 Bore sights.
11. Revolutionary Hybrid Sight with Adjustable 1 Pin .010 LH for Ultimate Shooting Precision - Experience precise shot accuracy and versatility with the CBE Engage Hybrid Sight 1 Pin .010 LH, featuring a dovetail mounting system, Quad Track design, and rapid drive for seamless adjustment.
12. CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight: Precision Adjustments for Optimal Performance - CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight 1 Pin RH .010 provides frustration-free pin adjustments with a dovetail mounting system, hybrid elevation adjustment, and quad track design for ultimate stability and accuracy.
13. CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight: Fast, Accurate, and Convenient Adjustments - Experience precision and ease with the CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight, featuring a frustration-free pin adjustment system, Armed Guard Fiber Management System, and a Quad Track four-track stability adjustment for a stable and efficient shooting experience.
14. CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight 1 Pin with Dovetail Mount and Armed Guard Fiber Management System - Experience precision and ease with the CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight, featuring a hybrid elevation adjustment, 2nd and 3rd axis adjustments for quiver attachment, and ergonomic control for optimal performance.
15. Rize Hunter Sight 30mm Left Hand AR Front Sight Post - Experience lightning-fast accuracy and convenience with the B3 Rize Hunter Sight, featuring a patented vertical mount system, micro-adjust windage, and a range of additional features for precision shooting.
16. CX5 Carbon Sight: Lightweight Hunting Bow Accessory with Rheostat Sight Light and Adjustable Pins - Lightweight Carbon Fiber Sight with Adjustable Peep Alignment Rings and Rheostat Light - Perfect for Hunting and Archery Enthusiasts!
17. Premium 8.6 oz CBE Trek Smart Mount Hunting Bow Sight - Experience flawless accuracy with the CBE Trek Sight 1 Pin .010 LH - a versatile, easy-to-use bow sight with premium features, perfect for any distance and light condition.
18. Black Gold Quick Link Base Hunting Bow Sight - The Black Gold Micro Quick Link Base transforms your Black Gold sight into a picatinny mount, offering rock-solid accuracy with ease, no special tools required.
19. Precision Archery Sight for Optimal Balance and Accuracy - Experience unmatched accuracy and balance with the Bowtech Center Mass Dual Trac sight, featuring photochromatic technology and independently adjustable pins, all at the centerline of your bow.

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Reviews

🔗High-Performance 5-Pin Bow Sight for Long-Lasting, Customized Aiming Points

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The CBE Tactic Micro 5-Pin Bow Sight offers a precise and accurate shooting experience with its durable Blade Pin design, which boasts a bright aiming point. Featuring a multi-position mounting system for optimal bow alignment, easy micro windage and elevation adjustments, and even brighter pins with fiber management, this sight is ideal for the experienced bowhunter.
The added sight light provides a clear visual aid during low light conditions, ensuring that you and your target stay on target all the way to success.

🔗CBE Tactic Hybrid 1 Pin Sight

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The CBE Tactic Hybrid 1-Pin Bow Sight is an ultra-light, compact bow sight that won't break the bank. It offers an effective and user-friendly experience for experienced archers. The highlight of this product is the Tactic Hybrid's movable pin sight with Smart Mount's multi-positioning mountable system. Using this, users can easily adjust the various settings according to their needs.
In addition, the Bow Sight features a floating pin with a rapid stop. This makes it simple to shoot from long or short distances. With its fibber management system, users can now use the sight more safely by enhancing the brightness of pins and providing better protection with 12 inches of fibber.
Furthermore, the Bow Sight provides visual aid during pin adjustment. It employs laser-marked hashes to assist users in understanding their shots better and make precise changes if necessary. Lastly, the Tactic Hybrid's versatility shines in its ambidextrous design, making it convenient for both left-handed and right-handed archers.
The Tactic Hybrid Sight also comes with a Rheostat Sight Light and Sight Scales, adding more value to the item while keeping its user-friendly nature intact. In terms of reviews from actual users, customers have consistently described the Bow Sight as exceptional with its "love it, " "excellent sight, " and "best sights for the money. "
Although a few reviewers shared negative experiences, these concerns mainly revolved around potential durability issues and incompatibility errors. All in all, the CBE Tactic Hybrid 1-Pin Bow Sight is a cost-effective, functional, and ergonomic solution catering to various bowing needs.

🔗CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight: Frustration-Free Pin Adjustments and Quad-Track Stability

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The CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight is a high-quality product designed for archers seeking an easy-to-adjust sight with advanced features. Featuring frustration-free pin adjustment, Armed Guard Fiber Management System, and the Dovetail Mounting System, this product stands out among its competitors.
The sight utilizes the Hybrid Elevation Adjustment, Hybrid Windage Adjustment, and 2Nd and 3Rd axis adjustments, making it a versatile option for experienced hunters. The four-track quad track design and ergonomic knob contribute to its stability and adjustability. Additionally, the product offers rapid drive for fast adjustments, which is convenient for hunters on the go.
This product comes with Quad Track Design Utilizing Delrin Tracks and Rapid Drive for fast adjustments. It also includes 12 inches of fiber for brighter pins and the RiteLighter Pin Retention System for secure fibers.
Users have given this product high ratings on usability and design, noting that the Armed Guard Fiber Management System and ergonomic knob make it easy and comfortable to set up. Some users have pointed out minor issues, such as loose housing and limited color availability, but the overall experience is positive with many users praising the sights’ versatility and accuracy.
In conclusion, the CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight is a high-performing product tailored for experienced archers seeking both stability and adjustability in their hunting sights.

🔗CBE Engage Hybrid 3 Pin Bow Sight for Right-Handed

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As a bow enthusiast, I've always been on the lookout for a reliable and accurate bow sight. When I came across the CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight, I knew I had to give it a try. This bow sight has made my shooting experience smoother and more enjoyable than ever before.
One of the features that really stood out to me is the frustration-free pin adjustments. It allowed me to adjust each pin individually, making the entire sighting process incredibly precise and efficient. The Dovetail Mounting System added an extra layer of stability, which was a great addition to ensure accuracy while shooting.
Another aspect I liked about the CBE Engage is its quad-track design. It prevented any rocking or rattling from happening whilst adjusting, ensuring a steadier and more secure experience. Plus, its Rapid Drive elevation adjustment system allowed me to make quick, high-precision adjustments with ease.
However, there were some cons too. For instance, the learning curve to use all the features can be quite steep. But once you get a hang of it, it's definitely worth the effort.
All in all, the CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight has been an absolute game-changer for me. Its unique features, combined with its impeccable craftmanship, make it a top-of-the-line choice for anyone seeking an accurate and reliable bow sight.

🔗Olympus EE-1 Red Dot Sight with Crosshair Reticle

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I recently got my hands on the Olympus EE-1 Red Dot Sight with Crosshair Reticle, and I must say, it has been a game-changer for my photography adventures. The EE-1 has made tracking fast-moving subjects much easier, especially during bird photography.
One of the standout features was the Center Aiming Dot. It was incredibly useful in capturing my subjects at the right angle, without losing sight of them. The ability to adjust the brightness and position of the dot was a bonus, as it allowed me to customize the settings according to my shooting environment.
The EE-1 is designed to mount onto a camera's hot shoe, which ensures a snug and secure fit. Plus, its dustproof and splash-proof design has kept it safe from the elements during my outdoor shoots.
However, there were a few cons that I experienced while using this product. The adjustment wheels for the brightness and position of the dot are slightly vulnerable to movement during shooting, which could lead to maladjustment. Another issue I faced was the difficulty in turning off the LED when the sight is collapsed for storage, as it can consume battery power.
Overall, the Olympus EE-1 Red Dot Sight with Crosshair Reticle has been a valuable addition to my photography kit. Its innovative features have greatly improved my ability to capture moving subjects, despite the few minor flaws.

🔗3V Micro Adjustable Sight with CBE Hybrid Drive System

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The CBE Trek Pro Micro 3V Sight is an ideal choice for those seeking a precision aiming tool. Weighing at 9.856 oz, it has been enhanced with new features such as three vertical pins, including a fixed center pin and micro-adjustable first and third pins. To add a touch of personalization, the machined aluminum casing supports the use of CBE Peep alignment rings and boasts a selection of four vibrant colors. Additionally, the Trek 3V Pro sight can be easily customized with the option to incorporate a CBE Picatinny or CBE Bridge Lock adapter.
This sight also comes equipped with the signature CBE Hybrid Drive system, which offers extensive adjustment capabilities. Highlight features include the hard stop, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd axis adjustments, micro windage, laser-engraved sight scales, and vertical multi-pin support. Despite the limited availability in certain locations such as Hebron, Liman, Obezet, or Lebanon, this versatile sight remains a top contender amongst competitors in the industry.

🔗TruGlo Crossbow Scope with Unisex Camo Design

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I've recently had the chance to try out the TruGlo 4x32 Rangefinding/Trajectory Compensating Crossbow Scope, a nifty piece of equipment for enthusiastic crossbow users like me. The scope's main highlight was its ability to find the range and calculate the correct trajectory for my crossbow bolts. In my experience, this feature proved to be quite handy in my local archery range, particularly for those days when the wind and temperature were unstable.
One of the things that stood out to me was the scope's robustness. It was designed to handle the harsh conditions of the outdoors, as evidenced by the sturdy aluminum body and the shock-resistant construction. This scope also offered a generous 4-inch eye relief, a feature that helped protect my eyes during those blustery hunting sessions.
The scope's lenses were fully-coated, making them highly resistant to glare, a common concern for crossbow users shooting in low-light conditions. Additionally, the durable leavespring for windage and elevation adjustments were a welcomed bonus, allowing me to finetune my shots with ease.
On the downside, one of the screws on the scope rings was stripped, a minor issue that wasn't a deal-breaker. I also discovered that the scope wasn't rated specifically for a particular crossbow speed. To achieve optimal accuracy, I had to adjust the scope manually, which was a bit tricky and time-consuming.
Regardless of these minor downsides, the TruGlo 4x32 Rangefinding/Trajectory Compensating Crossbow Scope proved to be an essential piece of equipment in my hunting arsenal. Its ease of use, durable construction, and helpful features make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking to upgrade their crossbow hunting experience.

🔗Xs R3D 2.0: Desert Eagle Night Sight for Clear Visibility in Low-Light

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I recently had the chance to give the Xs R3D 2.0 a try in my Desert Eagle Pistol, and I must say, it has been a game-changer for my shooting experience. In low-light environments, the sight really shines, thanks to the tritium front and rear glow dots that absorb ambient light. It's been a lifesaver during those late-night training sessions, and it certainly makes a difference when it comes to visibility.
One feature I especially appreciate is the wide notch rear with serrations and anti-reflective lens. It ensures that the sight never gets in the way during the shooting process, and it also blends in seamlessly with the gun's overall design. The corrosion-resistant black nitride surface finish is another plus, as it not only looks sleek but also adds durability to the product.
However, there are a couple of downsides to the Xs R3D 2.0. Firstly, the sight is a tad bulky compared to other models in the market. It might not be ideal for those who are looking for a more compact option. Secondly, the 3-dot tritium sight picture may not be everyone's cup of tea, but it's a personal preference that might be worth considering.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Xs R3D 2.0 has proven to be a reliable and high-quality sight for my pistol. Its performance in low-light conditions and the overall build quality have made it a valuable addition to my gun collection. So, if you're in the market for a top-of-the-line sight for your Desert Eagle Pistol, I'd highly recommend giving this one a try.

🔗Compact and Versatile Telrad Reflex Sight with Mounting Base

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The Telrad Reflex Sight is a must-have accessory for stargazers and telescope enthusiasts. As someone who has been using it for a while, I can confidently say that it's a game-changer when it comes to finding celestial objects in the sky. One of the standout features for me is its deep red concentric circles, which make it easy to locate targets even in the darkest of nights.
Another aspect I truly appreciated is the mounting base, which securely attaches the sight to telescopes of all sizes. The on/off switch and the continuously adjustable brightness control are also incredibly convenient, ensuring that the sight is always set to the perfect brightness for observation.
However, one drawback I encountered is that the Telrad Reflex Sight can be quite heavy, making it challenging to carry around on outdoor adventures. Also, the mounting base could be more versatile, as it only works with a specific type of telescope.
Despite these minor issues, the Telrad Reflex Sight is a powerful tool for anyone looking to enhance their telescope experience. Its compact design, user-friendly features, and reliability make it worth considering for any stargazing enthusiast.

🔗Axis Target Sight RH: High-Performance 22 Bore Sight with Modular Adjustments

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In my experience using the CBE Axis Target Sight RH, the redesigned riser mount bar clamp feels like a sturdy upgrade, providing a solid and customizable foundation for my setup. The bar, crafted from high modulus machined carbon-fiber, offers a sleek yet reliable touch.
The elevation system on the Axis truly shines, as it effortlessly removes any unwanted play while maintaining smooth and rapid adjustments. The sight's mounting feels secure and its easy adjustments are much appreciated.
Additionally, the Windage Tube Clamp locating collar makes traveling with my scope much easier, as I can remove and reinstall it with no hassle. The interchangeable sight scales and multiple axis adjustments add a nice layer of customization to my experience.
However, the micro adjusters could benefit from a locking mechanism to prevent accidental tweaks. Also, having zero backlash would be a significant improvement, especially for precise adjustments.

🔗Revolutionary Hybrid Sight with Adjustable 1 Pin .010 LH for Ultimate Shooting Precision

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When hunting, I've found the CBE Engage Hybrid Sight 1 Pin. 010 LH to be a reliable and efficient tool. The dovetail mounting system and Quick Track design utilizing delrin tracks make it user-friendly and easy to set up. The Rapid Drive feature keeps it securely in place, ensuring accuracy during my shots.
The 2nd and 3rd axis adjustment has made it easy for me to refine my aim, leading to a higher success rate. However, one downside has been the weight at 1 lb, which can become a little cumbersome during long periods of hunting.
Overall, the CBE Engage Hybrid Sight has been a trusty companion on my hunting adventures.

🔗CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight: Precision Adjustments for Optimal Performance

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The CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight is a game-changer for archers who want a smooth and efficient shooting experience. With its unique dovetail mounting system, it ensures a stable and accurate shot every time. One of the standout features is the hybrid elevation adjustment, which allows for fine-tuned adjustments with just a single turn of the knob.
The ergonomic design of the knob makes it easy to manipulate, even in the heat of the moment. Additionally, the quad track system eliminates any unwanted wobbling or rattling, providing a solid foundation. The rapid drive elevation adjustment system is truly rapid, offering high-precision adjustments in a matter of seconds.
However, one potential downside is the relatively short length of 10 inches. While this may be ideal for some, it could limit the versatility for others. Despite this, the CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight proves to be a top-performing choice for many archers searching for a reliable and efficient sight for their bow.

🔗CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight: Fast, Accurate, and Convenient Adjustments

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I've been using the CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight for a while now, and it has become a game-changer in my archery practice. One feature that stands out is its rapid drive adjustment system, making it easy to tweak the sight with just one turn.
The ergonomic knob also ensures that adjusting the sight is effortless and comfortable. On the downside, I've noticed that it's a bit heavy, weighing in at 1.08 lb, which can be a drawback for those with sensitive wrists. Overall, the CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight has proven to be reliable and intuitive, making my shooting experience more enjoyable and precise.

🔗CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight 1 Pin with Dovetail Mount and Armed Guard Fiber Management System

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The CBE Engage Hybrid Bow Sight has been a game changer in my archery pursuits. I particularly appreciate its frustration-free pin adjustments, allowing me to make precise adjustments with ease. The Armed Guard Fiber Management System and the increased fiber length for brighter pins have made a noticeable difference.
However, there's still room for improvement in the ergonomics of the knob and the initial set up. Overall, it has vastly improved my experience on the range.

Buyer's Guide

Cmore sights are a category of optical sights designed for various shooting applications. They offer a range of features to enhance accuracy, visibility, and versatility. When considering a Cmore sight, it's essential to assess your requirements and preferences to make an informed decision.

Features to Consider

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1. Optical Quality: A high-quality lens should provide a clear, sharp, and distortion-free image for accurate targeting. Look for sights with fully multicoated lenses to maximize light transmission and improve contrast.
2. Field of View (FOV): A wider field of view allows for faster target acquisition and better peripheral vision, which can be beneficial in fast-paced shooting situations.
3. Reticle Options: Cmore sights offer a variety of reticle patterns to suit different shooting styles and scenarios. Consider your preferences and the specific application when selecting a reticle.
4. Adjustment Range: The adjustment range of a Cmore sight refers to the elevation and windage adjustments available. A larger adjustment range provides more flexibility for long-range shooting and precise adjustments.
5. Durability and Weather Resistance: A reliable Cmore sight should be built to withstand harsh conditions and maintain functionality in different weather scenarios. Look for products with waterproof and fog-proof seals, as well as durable materials.

General Considerations

1. Compatibility: Ensure the Cmore sight you choose is compatible with your firearm's mounting system. Consult the manufacturer's specifications and cross-check with your firearm's mounting options.
2. Purpose: Determine the intended use for your Cmore sight, as different models may excel in specific applications like hunting, competition, or tactical situations.
3. Budget: Cmore sights come in a wide range of price points. Establish your budget and seek options that offer the best value for your requirements and preferences.

Tips for Choosing the Right Cmore Sight

• Consider the features mentioned above and prioritize them according to your needs.
• If possible, try out a few different models at a shooting range or through a rental program.
• Research user reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the performance, durability, and ease of use of various Cmore sights.
• Take advantage of any available warranties or return policies to ensure your satisfaction with the product.

Selecting the right Cmore sight requires careful consideration of essential features, compatibility, and application. By taking the time to research and evaluate your options, you can find a sight that enhances your shooting experience and meets your specific requirements.
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FAQ

Why should I choose Cmore sights?

Cmore sights are known for their durability, accuracy, and ease of use. These sights are designed for a wide range of firearms, including handguns and rifles, making it easy for you to find a sight that works with your gun. Additionally, they offer various reticle options, allowing you to find the perfect sight for your shooting style.

Are Cmore sights easy to install?

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Cmore sights are known for their easy installation process. Most models can be mounted on your firearm without the need for any additional tools. This makes it quick and simple for you to get your sight up and running.

What types of reticles are available for Cmore sights?

Cmore sights offer a variety of reticle options, including dot, circle, and various combinations. These reticles are designed to provide accurate and efficient shooting, allowing you to quickly make successful shots, especially in low-light situations.

Are Cmore sights waterproof?

Yes, Cmore sights are designed to be waterproof. This means that they can withstand being exposed to rain, sweat, or other moisture without sustaining damage. This feature makes them ideal for outdoor use and ensures that your sight is never hindered due to poor weather conditions.
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Do Cmore sights come with any warranty or guarantee?

Cmore sights normally come with a limited lifetime warranty. This warranty typically covers any manufacturing defects or issues related to the sight's performance. Contact Cmore for specific details on the warranty and its coverage.

What materials are used to construct Cmore sights?

Cmore sights are typically made from high-quality materials, including aircraft-grade aluminum, polymer, and glass. These materials are designed to be durable, lightweight, and resistant to water, shock, and other wear and tear.

Can Cmore sights be used for hunting?

Yes, Cmore sights are ideal for hunting applications. Their advanced reticle options and accuracy make them an excellent choice for hunting with various firearms, especially in low-light situations and for long-range shots.

What kind of battery do Cmore sights use?

Cmore sights typically use a CR2 battery. This type of battery is commonly found in various electronic devices and is widely available for purchase.

What is the price range for Cmore sights?

The Cmore sight product line offers a variety of options to suit different budgets. Prices for these sights start at around $200 and can go up to around $500 or more depending on the model and features you choose.
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Synopsis:
An engineer in another world—blending science and magic to achieve greatness in a world where skills and levels reign supreme.
—
Ethan was just a plain old engineer, but everything changed when he was reborn into a world of skills, levels, and magic. With his advanced knowledge far ahead of the time period he finds himself in, this new reincarnated life will be much different than his last, especially because he can construct, deconstruct, and reconstruct runes—something no one else can do.
But with royal politics, looming tax collectors, a mountain of debt, dungeon incursions, cults, and hostile fantasy races mixing together into a cocktail of bullshit that threatens to bury his dreams; Ethan must bridge the gap between steel and sorcery to grow stronger.
First < Previous Next >

Chapter 02

-1-
Roland cursed under his breath as he trudged down the muddy path toward Lord Theodore's manor. The late early morning sun cast long shadows, painting the desolate landscape in an even bleaker light.
Why was it only him who had to deal with Lord Theodore's bullshit? Just last night, Roland had to take care of all the complaints from the bar he'd found Lord Theodore at. Not to mention, he had to pay compensation to the wenches from his own personal funds.
And that wasn't even half the things he'd done yesterday alone.
After all, Lord Theodore was either busy abusing his power and bullying the people of the town, gambling, drinking, getting wasted with his face stuck up a prostitute, or doing his fourth favorite activity which, naturally, was a combination of the latter three. The man wasn't the brightest, but he wasn't quite dumb enough to avoid dealing with the problems the town of Holden faced.
Roland shook his head when he made it to the estate gates. As expected, there were guards, servants, and soldiers dashing left and right, but he was ignored. It was time to beg Lord Theodore to attend to his duties. None dared stop him, for he was a [Knight] appointed to Lord Theodore by his father—Lord Alexander Lockheart—and an acting advisor while said lord was being, well, his usual idiotic and selfish self.
So, Roland did what he had to; he moved past them all, and made for Lord Theodore's sleeping quarters where a handful of maids were all fussing about like hens with their heads chopped off.
Lord Theodore's quarters were not large by noble standards, but impressive all the same. Lavish and gaudy, just as he expected. Tapestries and drapes were hung up high all about the walls, and on the ground, there were expensive fur carpets.
After moving past the maids and butlers who were currently shuffling about like a horde of ants whose nest was threatened by a boar, he stopped before a silk drape that barred the way to Lord Theodore's bedchambers.
"Lord Theodore," he called.
Silence.
"Lord Theodore?"
Nothing.
Feeling a little annoyed, Roland frowned. "Lord Theodore," he called again. "With all due respect, are you presently attired?"
Nothing but a muffled sound came from the other side. Roland grimaced, and looked up at the ceiling in exasperation before dropping his hand and tugging the curtain aside. The inside of the bedchamber wasn't much to look at. Just your average nobleman's bedroom with a canopy bed big enough to fit twelve women side-by-side.
Most did, in fact, do just that.
A bookshelf stood on each wall, and at the far end was another drape that led to an enclosed balcony where he had the gall to throw his used clothes through during summer.
"Greetings, my lord," Roland said.
Lord Theodore, however, didn't answer.
He sat in front of a full-length mirror on the dresser. He had this listless sort of look, like he just didn't know how to deal with things. It wasn't an expression he'd ever seen on the man's face.
"Lord Theodore, are you well?" Roland inquired, a sliver of unease creeping into his voice. Though he found the young lord childish—given he was barely eighteen years old—Lord Theodore was his responsibility. He'd been Roland's responsibility when he was a little brat, and even now.
Theodore gave a startled response. "Ah, Roland? Yes, I am quite well."
"My lord, with all due respect, I implore you to be truthful. Has something transpired?"
Roland was anxious now. While he harbored no particular fondness for Lord Theodore, a sworn oath bound him to protect and care for the Baron. Granted, his master, Lord Theodore's own father, had afforded him considerable autonomy within Holden's borders—heck, he could even go as far as beating up Lord Theodore without consequences, if Roland deemed it reasonable and necessary—but his code of honor held oaths sacred. The son of the house Varian would rather lose an arm and his birthright than break a single [Oath] made.
"No, truly, I'm fine."
"If that is the case," Roland acknowledged with a curt nod, "then I bear news."
Lord Theodore furrowed his brow. "Good news, I trust?"
"I'm afraid not," Roland sighed. "Yesterday, our patrol in the Deadwoods encountered a band of brigands...…"
Lord Theodore's frown deepened. "While banditry is a common occurrence, it often heralds further troubles. Elaborate, Roland."
"Indeed, my lord," Roland continued, "these brigands weren't merely causing a ruckus. Apparently, they were engaged in combat with a rather formidable creature, vaguely humanoid in form."
Lord Theodore's posture stiffened. "Vaguely humanoid? Can you provide further details?"
Roland shook his head. "Limited information, I'm afraid. Only reports of unnatural speed reached our ears; it appeared to be engaged with wolves. Both fled upon human-contact, however."
Lord Theodore stroked his chin thoughtfully. "Did our men prevail against the brigands? And this creature—surely Captain..." he paused, searching for the man's name.
"Thomas," Roland supplied.
"Ah, yes, Thomas. Holden is geographically close to the Deadwoods. Sir Thomas wouldn't simply abandon such a threat near the bordertowns, would he? He and I may not see eye to eye on certain matters, but... surely he wouldn't leave such a threat unaddressed." Lord Theodore said.
Roland hesitated. "Captain Thomas chose to bypass us and directly inform the Crown of their discovery. He remained tight-lipped regarding specifics despite repeated inquiries."
Lord Theodore hummed thoughtfully. "If Thomas deems it worthy of the Crown's attention, then it surpasses our jurisdiction. Let's hope for their swift and decisive action. What of the brigands? Eliminated, I presume?"
"So it seems," Roland replied. "All but one met their demise. The sole survivor remains in a cell, though maddened beyond reason."
"I see. Is that for now?" Lord Theodore leaned back in his chair.
"Not quite, my lord. We've had a recent outbreak of the Blight, and we suspect it was an intentional spread. Unfortunately, the culprit remains unidentified."
Theodore's expression morphed into one of genuine shock. "Are these two seemingly unrelated issues connected, perhaps?" He asked.
"It appears to be the case, my lord." A sigh escaped Roland's lips. The Blight—a magical sickness that eats away at your life force, causes lethargy, nausea, and kills you, all while your body radiates a pervasive foul odor. It had recently taken hold on a few people of Holden. Why or how, Roland did not know.
"Those afflicted have been quarantined in a secure location far from Holden to prevent further contagion. Our physicians are doing their utmost to manage them. However, several have died already, and the remaining victims exhibit signs of feral behavior—meaning, they have already entered the late stage, I'm afraid. It's become imperative that they remain under quarantine, lest they either bite other humans—given there's hunger for raw flesh in the late stage—or they could infect the crops, causing them to decay. Consequently, the farmers, understandably anxious, have retreated into their homes."
They were likely waiting for their lord, incompetent as he may be, to deal with the situation. Yet, he had his hand up a wench's skirt more than actually trying to fix the issues... What can I do with him? Roland sighed.
Lord Theodore rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Roland."
"Yes, my lord?"
"Do you think the Merchant Guild would let me have another loan?"
Roland's lips thinned into a line, but he shook his head. "Regrettably, my lord, they would not. The Merchants' Guild has been cautious lately. There was this whole unpleasant affair with a prominent [Merchant Lord] named Bertram, you might know the name. Used to flaunt more gold jewelry than some of the highborn nobles. Turns out, he was embezzling.
"Apparently, he manipulated the Guild's books for months. Inflated trade contracts with nonexistent suppliers from faraway lands, siphoned off the extra profit into his own pockets. Clever, gotta give him that. Even forged shipping manifests to keep it all looking legit.
"Nasty business, that. Apparently, the esteemed Lord Bertram decided a little vacation was in order after everything, and wouldn't you know it, he packed a rather hefty sum from the Guild's coffers along for the ride as well. We're talking a near royal-wedding-sized dowry here, my lord. Vanished, all of it.
"The details are still murky, but rumor has it Bertram might have gotten tangled with pirates operating from the Broken Isles. One of the [Pirate Kings], perhaps—or most likely. So, the Merchants' Guild has been refraining from giving out loans. And, my apologies to say this, my lord, but you're a high-risk individual, and you already have quite the debt with them... They wouldn't want to give more."
Lord Theodore already had a mountain of debt on his name... The interest rate was more than what Lord Theodore could pay off even if the crops did better than planned. Given that the Adventurers' Guild of this sector had been rather short on manpower lately due to a dungeon incursion in the town, Corinth, lying beside theirs and given that Lord Theodore had a tendency for tax evasion and then laundering… Yeah, they were royally fucked. Even if in this situation, Lord Theodore wanted a loan for himself... Roland just gave up. Maybe it was time to return to his master, Lord Theodore's father, and just ask him to appoint him somewhere else—he couldn't deal with this scumbag anymore, not in his current state.
"I see, they wouldn't. Not surprising. It seems I'm going to have to hire a [Necromancer] by my lonesome."
Roland blinked. "That's..." a shock, Roland stopped himself from saying. [Necromancers] cost a hefty sum, and given that Lord Theodore was already under debt and likely the financial situation of Holden was anything but optimal, hiring a [Necromancer] would've put a huge dent in Holden's already meager reserves. However, Roland hadn't imagined, not in his wildest dreams, that Lord Theodore would be employing one by his lonesome.
Throughout his life, Roland had known this man to not even spare a thought to anything that wasn't his immediate self-gratification, or his amusement and satisfaction. How was the wastrel noble suddenly going to change?
"My lord, my apologies for asking, but why do you require a [Necromancer's] assistance?" Roland finally asked, schooling his shocked expression.
"Oh, I have some... theories regarding the Blight." Lord Theodore grinned. "And a [Necromancer] might just be someone who we need in order to solve this problem once and for all."
Roland was shocked to his core, once more. "But, my lord, the treatment for the Blight isn't something common folk can afford? So, how...?"
"Nonsense, Roland. Forget that rudimentary concoction they peddle as a cure. I envision a more... permanent solution. Issue a commission at the Adventurers' Guild—a [Necromancer] or perhaps a [Witch], their talents are equally suited for this task."
"Yes, my lord." Roland bowed, failing to comprehend what Lord Theodore was planning on doing.
-2-
When Roland left, Ethan found it easier to relax. The stiff, aristocratic manners these people employed were rather annoying to bear with. No, they were rather hard to imitate, more accurately. Because despite his efforts, he'd still found it hard to match their ways, but it was doable. Not good enough, yet, but doable.
"How should I, going forward, act, then?" he muttered. "Because if I've understood a single thing, it is this: Theo's character as I know it now will ruin any chance of me, well, earning anything, be that respect, wealth, power, or all three. Should I continue as him, then, or completely overhaul Theodore's character and pretend it's some epiphany? A spiritual enlightenment, perhaps?"
Ethan shook his head. Whatever it may be, he wasn't planning on being like Theo. Let's go with a gradual change in mannerism.
First, however, he needed to deal with the Blight issue. Which would be easily dealt with—all he had to do was pay the [Necromancer], or [Witch], from his own pouch. Then, he needed to figure out this town's financial status and everything else in order to organize a working infrastructure and create new financial opportunities. Afterwards, he could move onto his 'character', if that is indeed what his situation required. There's a lot to do.
Before everything, however, a bath.
After all, he reeked of sweat and alcohol, among other not-so pleasant scents.
...
It took no more than a few minutes for a handful of servants to prepare the bath. Hot water steamed inside the spacious tub as soap bubbles glistened—soap that was far too expensive for the common folk. Despite being a luxury, its quality was arguably trash. Regardless, this was all the people had in this world. A strong scent of lavender permeated the air and tickled his nose as he undressed. A few maids had prepared for his comfort and placed a silken bathrobe alongside a set of towels on a small table near the bathtub before he'd dismissed them, ordering them to inform the kitchen staff that he would like his meal soon.
Ethan relaxed his shoulders, took the robe with one hand, and tossed it carelessly nearby. It was fine silk. Ethan shook his head before proceeding with an easy grace into the water. It was hot. Yet, Ethan felt rather cold, despite the heat. It helped him relax, and with it, the stiff persona that was Lord Theodore faded.
Ethan sank deeper, letting his long blond locks loose. A quick thought made him bring his hand forward. What if... he could make a fire? Just a little one, like a candle flame. How cool would that be? He focused, willing a tiny spark to appear on his fingertip. Nothing. Just a sputter and a fizzle.
"Hmm," he mumbled, undeterred. "Maybe I need to practice."
He doubted it was just understanding. After all, the skill [Elemental Spells] had given him the barest hints of the basics of how to create a basic spark of flame. He lacked control over mana. [Magic Perception] allowed him to view his mana—flowing, fast-moving streams and spiraling, coiling vortexes. It was chaotic; it was a mess! Maybe if he calmed it down, he could actually make something happen?
Easier said than done, he quickly learned. When he moved it, it took no less effort than bending metal with brute force. The feeling was there, and the will, too. Just the act of 'moving' it alone was a herculean effort. It seemed nigh impossible.
Maybe I'm doing it wrong?
Humming, Ethan looked through the snippets of memories he'd gotten from Theodore. The memories, he found, weren't entirely useless; as his mind drifted back and forth from those flashes, he did remember something Theodore had seen last night... There! A memory from last night—a drunk mage at the bar, showing off with a fireball for some girl who didn't seem too impressed.
"Let's see how that trick works," Ethan grinned.
With [Magic Perception], he saw how the spell flowed. The "spell" was, in a way, forced outwards into reality through the use of symbols he quickly recognized as runes—at least that was what he assumed after seeing the fireball.
Ethan could easily recall the shape of the rune that'd appeared before the fire took form on top of the mage's hand.
I'm pretty sure it's not possible to view runes. I assume, at least, from what little fragments of memories I got from Theo. Anyway, let's move my mana in the shape, then.
He imagined the shape on top of his hand and willed the mana to pour into it. Soon, rune motes started forming out of thin air, ripping into reality. Forming into a shape he willed, a rune burned brightly and loudly atop his palm. As he drew his hand forward, flames burst into life, flickering before fizzling out.
[Basic Magic Script] — Lvl 1 -> Lvl 2!
Congratulations! You have gained skill: [Basic Rune Creation]!
"Whoa." Ethan stared at his hand, a wide grin splitting his face. So that's how it works! Runes, huh? That's awesome! Ethan felt like a child again. He couldn't wait to try again, this time with a smaller flame, as it appeared that a fireball was far too much for his lacking skill and control. Magic... it was epic stuff!
Before that, however, he looked at the new skill he'd gained.
~Basic Rune Creation – Level 1~
Type: Active
Effect: You have grasped the fundamental concept of using runes to channel and shape your mana for basic magical effects. The Connection between two of your skill—[Magic Perception] and [Basic Magic Script]—has resulted in the creation of a new skill. You can now create simple runes that allow for the manipulation of elemental energy on a small scale. As your skill level increases, you will be able to create more complex runes, allowing for more powerful and versatile spells. You may also learn to combine runes for even greater magical effects.
Ethan stared. Reading the description was a quick matter of concentration. It took him by surprise, however, when he realized it. Rune creation? Huh. Does that mean I can create anything? The thought alone was exciting. What about rune motes? Rune motes were fragments of runes, combining certain fragments could result in a full rune. I saw them congregating into the shape of a rune, but is it possible to just create rune motes and not a full rune? I should try.
Regardless of his thoughts, it was creation—
—and Ethan loved creation. Even as a child, he had never gotten tired of tinkering with things. He still recalled the time he'd gotten his first Lego set. Just putting random pieces together with no thought for a bigger picture—he'd loved that. He'd loved doing all sorts of stuff with Legos, creating different castles or other complex structures, but it was building something completely random and ridiculous, yet unique nonetheless, which gave him the most sense of satisfaction. It was fun. It was a hobby—a hobby that ignited in him a fire of passion for innovation.
It was then the thought of being a civil engineer had sprung up in his mind. To put it simply, a civil engineer is responsible for planning, designing, and constructing buildings. Though, that was just a general term. Ethan would have been perfectly happy had he chosen that. Unfortunately, his father had wanted him to become a boxer, instead.
The man wanted to become one himself in his prime, but due to health issues, he'd quit right before making it to a big league. He'd hoped his son would achieve what he couldn't and bring victory for the family. Even though Ethan hadn't exactly planned boxing as his future, but who could refuse the pressure his old man put on him? Especially when he'd been just a little boy?
It was another matter entirely that Ethan fell in love with boxing, too, as it made him feel alive. The sensation of a punching bag slamming against his fists? Nothing quite made his blood boil like that.
And oh, fighting in the ring. There was just something about the sport Ethan couldn't resist.
Something about creation, fighting, and experiencing a bit of both, had Ethan wishing he could try the other options that lay in front of him now.
Could he make a real spaceship, in this world?
It sounded silly as fuck and he knew it. Nonetheless, the temptation was still there, hovering and nagging at the edge of his mind, as ridiculous as his previous thoughts might have been.
Spaceships are cool, dammit.
That thought suddenly gave Ethan pause. "Let's just return to practice."
This time, fire flickered atop his fingertips for a second longer.
Another second was added on top of that after his third try.
The light was dim. However, it did mean something: improvement.
[Elemental Spells] — Lvl 1 -> Lvl 2!
Grinning like an idiot, Ethan sank deeper into the hot bath water and brought his other hand up to repeat the exercise for the next half an hour or so, occasionally reading a notification that would come every now and then.
[Elemental Spells] — Lvl 2 -> Lvl 3!
[Elemental Spells] — Lvl 3 -> Lvl 4!
[Elemental Spells] — Lvl 4 -> Lvl 5!
But no matter what, he couldn't get it to level up to level 6, nor could he level up [Basic Magic Script] from level 2 to 3.
Why not, though? I'm doing—
"Don't rush," he chided himself. "Your control is pitiful, shaping is trash, and your spellcasting is akin to tossing stones into the sea without even knowing how to make it bounce—guesswork is all you are, but it's a good start, I suppose."
As he set a handful of candle-like flames afloat on all five of his fingers, his lips quirked into a wide smirk. It was only a party trick. For now, that is. I need to find more about magic and learn. I've been winging it.
That was true; he didn't understand anything about magic. All he'd done so far was try to emulate the rune he'd seen in the memory snippet through the help of [Magic Perception] and cast a few party tricks. Was that impressive? He had literally no comparison to base off of, thus why he knew he needed to learn more.
Theodore's memories proved to be useless in this regard, too. His father hadn't found him worthy enough to be assigned a mage as a tutor. Theodore was a disappointment through and through, and that's why he'd been sent to rule the bordertowns.
He could cast the spell, yes, but he didn't understand the underlying concepts that fueled the magic or what the process was.
-3-
Ethan descended down the stairs that would lead him to the dining room where breakfast had already been laid out for him. Two maids were present as well. It was a feast of the likes he'd only ever read in fairy tales. Fried, scrambled, boiled eggs. Different shapes, sizes, and cuts. Cakes and pies in varying quantities and sizes. Grilled meat, smoked and salted. How could he ever eat everything alone?
Ethan exhaled and then dove in; however, he still maintained decorum as it was imperative to do so given that he was a noble now. Regardless, once done, he made it to the meeting room given that he had some people to meet today.
"Barely breaking even," Ethan muttered, flicking the parchment in his hand. He frowned at the financial situation of Holden, the town he was in charge of. The bordertowns consisted of a series of towns lying on the periphery of the borders. Each town was a barony in name, and nobles—especially troublesome nobles—were often sent here to practice ruling and to make them accustomed to how the common folk lived, so they could empathize with the people they ruled.
With how many bandits the region had had lately, the Blight, debt, tax, and interest that'd ramped up, Ethan's current situation was mind-fucking at best and a keg waiting to explode at worst.
I don't want to deal with Theo's issues.
Not only was this whole situation something Ethan did not want in the slightest, a whole can of worms that were Theo's problems was thrust into his hands. Ethan had held no fantasies of getting isekai'd. That was suicide in his books. He'd have been more than happy to die and meet oblivion. But now that he was here…
Leaning back into his chair, Ethan rubbed his eyes. Yeah, he needed to deal with everything and make the best of his situation to live a comfortable life. When Roland returned with a man in tow, Ethan hummed.
The man was young, younger than Roland, even. Black hair and sharp green eyes. He held himself high with confidence and Ethan recognized him instantly. Isn't he that mage from the bar?
"My lord," Roland bowed. "I have brought a [Necromancer] as per your command."
The [Necromancer] bowed and with a thin smile said, "Pleased to be at your service, my lord. The name's Jack."
Hm. So he wasn't a mage but a [Necromancer].
"Likewise," Ethan replied with a nod, then leaned forward, smiling. "Say, Jack, would you like to be part of a business opportunity?
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I've seen a lot of conversations about advancements in artificial intelligence, with recent conversations focusing on people losing jobs due to automation, whether it's coding, writing, art, etc. In particular, I've seen a lot of pushback against AI art on the basis of plagiarism and the fact that the market value of an actual artist goes down considerably when competing in the same market as AI. I have several major grievances with the foci of these conversations.
First of all, automation is nothing new. Tools by their nature are things that modify the ratio of input to output, similar to how a gear box increases torque. Put in X amount of work while using a tool and you should expect to see greater than X productivity. A better tool gives you a better exchange rate.
First of all, this is nothing new. We can go back to personal computers, back to early industrial technology, all the way back to looms or farming techniques from the agricultural revolution if we want to. These AI conversations have a lot of recency bias and are noteworthy only because of the nature of jobs that are able to be automated now (namely white collar jobs that involve processing information.)
The conversation that needs to happen, similar to the conversation that should have happened with the invention of all of these older tools, is what should happen with that improved efficiency. Let's look at the relevant variables here:
Worker puts X hours of work to produce Y units of productivity and is compensated in Z currency. So suppose a tool doubles the efficiency of a task:

• If Y and Z remain constant, X is cut in half so the worker's day is only half as long and they have more leisure.
• If X and Z remain constant, Y is doubled, so the worker produces twice as much, so the employer is the only benefactor of the increased efficiency.
• If X and Y remain constant, Z doubles, so the worker's hours remain the same but they're now paid twice as much.

(I'm aware that each of these examples is an extreme; you could find some split by which workers work a LITTLE less and companies are a LITTLE more productive and workers are paid a LITTLE more.)
The fact that tools change how efficient a task is throws a wrench in the Protestant work ethic which values work as a moral axiom. If work on its own is what's valuable and is not simply the means to an end (the actual work being accomplished) then you could argue that effective tools are immoral or "lazy" because less time was spent working. But I don't think anyone, including people that claim hard work is virtuous, would argue against tool use on the basis of it being more moral to work inefficiently.
So the question then becomes a moral argument of HOW tools should be utilized and WHO they are meant to benefit. I think in most cases, inventors of tools are motivated by the idea of how much easier a task could be for the people using them. The philosophy of patenting seems to support this idea; after 20 years, anyone can reap the benefits of someone's innovation. The fallacy is that many of these innovations hold no practical utility to an individual and require a prohibitive amount of infrastructure to build or operate.
Public utility regulations are a reflection that this is already understood to some extent; we allow utilities to be a (heavily regulated) monopoly because of their dependence on extensive infrastructure. However, an idea that I've never heard anyone propose is that tools the increase productivity should be treated the same way. Until there is a consensus that powerful tools should exist to benefit humanity as a whole, innovation will only ever worsen the wealth gap.
An alternate history in which workers' hourly compensation increases (or working hours decrease) with every new invention is almost unconscionable to the average person because of how far removed this is from real life, and because of how long we've been going down the path we're currently on. However, this is essentially the fantasy that is sold to us over and over as we see advertisements for how much easier modern technology can make a task. Not only do we imagine it will save the AVERAGE PERSON time and energy, but this is a vision of the future that is deliberately SOLD to us. But when those same tools are used in the workplace, WE never collect on that saved time.
So the argument that AI is "taking our jobs" is actually pretty similar to the same scapegoated arguments of immigrants or outsourcing "taking" jobs; this perspective blindly accepts the idea that we HAVE to work hard for the means to survive, and that jobs are just a natural part of the environment instead of being synthesized by employers that can arbitrarily decide what working hours or compensation are "fair."
I don't say this with the expectation that public policy will change; most people are already aware that there's a closed circuit between legislation and private interests that are the benefactors of the status quo. However, my hope is that people are able to redirect their anger in the right direction. As an example, AI art doesn't stop you from making your own art, it only impacts your quality of life if you rely on your art to provide for yourself, and THAT'S the status quo that needs to be challenged.

Hello everybody!
This is the Daily Megathread for general and simple questions as well as asking for advice on which Pokemon to use the fusion splicers on.
The goal of these Megathreads is to hopefully reduce the number of repeat posts and de-clog up the SubReddit.
If your post was deleted and you were redirected here please check the comments to make sure your question wasn't already asked and answered today.
If you're looking for a really well-written, in-depth beginners guide we have one pinned but you can also find it through this link: https://www.reddit.com/pokerogue/s/6ck9cZj0NG
I'll also include some common questions and answers so please check these below before repeating the same question.
(Most of these are from the official Wiki which can be found here as well as more info like which Pokemon are in which biomes, shiny odds, and the stat spread of each Dynamax form) : https://wiki.pokerogue.net/start
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Commonly asked questions:
Q: What does the pink box around some starters mean? A: The Pokemon has PKRS which increases the amount of Exp gained, the Pokemon will eventually spread it to your other Pokemon. Every day 3 random Pokemon are selected to have PKRS for that day
Q: What does the little blue and purple symbol by my starter mean? A: You have the Pokemon's Hidden Ability unlocked. When you catch a Pokemon you will know it has the Hidden Ability because the text will be Yellow. You will have to switch the Ability to use the Hidden Ability
Q: What do (P) or (N) next to a move or ability mean? A: (P) means Partially Implemented (usually for moves this means it does the attack but not the secondary effect) and (N) means Not Implemented. (Eventually everything will be implemented)
Q: Can you ever catch any Pokemon in the last biome of Classic? A: Once you have hatched the Pokemon from an egg you can catch duplicates of it ONLY IN CLASSIC MODE in the final biome
Q: How do I evolve this Pokemon? A: Any evolution that has been changed from the main games can be found here: https://wiki.pokerogue.net/gameplay:evolutions
Q: How does fusion work? A: In short, the 1st Pokemon you fuse will dictate the Passive ability (if you have it unlocked), the 1st type of the fusion, the Level, IVs, and Nature. The 2nd Pokemon will dictate the Ability of the Pokemon and the second typing (which will be the Pokemons second type if it is a dual-type). Luck is combined, learnset (including TM compatibility) are also combined. Note: if you unfuse them the second Pokemon will be lost Second Note: both sides can evolve normally but only the 1st half can Mega/Dynamax evolve or use items that change their form More info can be found here: https://wiki.pokerogue.net/gameplay:mechanics:fusion
Q: What is a "Manaphy egg"? A: An egg of the same rarity as an "Epic" egg that has a 7/8 chance of hatching a Phione and a 1/8 chance of hatching a Manaphy
Q: What does the (+1), (+2), (+3), etc. mean under my starters moves? A: You have more moves available to choose from than just what is listed, since a Pokemon can only have 4 at a time obviously you will have to change them if you want different ones
Q: What are some good starters for Classic mode? A: We actually have a Daily Voting/Tiering Project going on, you can sort the SubReddit by "Daily Tiering/Voting Posts" to see the most recent one which will have the updated tier list. If you want to know why a Pokemon was Voted a certain way or what makes it so good or how people use it successfully feel free to ask that specifically in this thread in the comments :)
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A few tips if you're asking for Fusion Suggestions:
Obviously post a picture of your team, but also include in the comment their Nature's, Abilities, current Moveset and whether you have the Passive Ability unlocked on them.
If your question wasn't on the list above or for suggestions on which Pokemon to Fuse from your current team feel free to ask in the comments of this thread :). Individual posts of these types will be removed to reduce the number of repeat posts in the Sub.
As always, Happy Roguing!

After graduating with a bachelors in business admin and marketing I ran our family business for 10 years. We had a pizza business with 3 retail units and a wholesale commissary that wholesaled product to 7 stores that we licensed our name to. I also managed several commercial and residential property rentals. A year an a half ago we sold the business.
For the past year I've been working in the accounting department of a small ($6-8mm annual rev) logistics company. We use quickbooks desktop and I manage AR, AP, & payroll for about 80 employees across 5 states. The controller is allegedly retiring in the next 2 years and the owner says that I will be able to have that position.
I don't like having all of my eggs in one basket. The only reason I got this job is because I know the owner. I just want a back up plan if something happens. I was planning on taking some courses to meet the education requirements to take the CPA exams. I need 30 more credits and I think that I might as well enroll in one of those mediocre (at best) online MBA programs to get the credits and an MBA in the process. Is this a decent plan?
TLDR: Recently changed careers. Thinking CPA as a backup option but need 30 more university credits. Is it a bad idea to get an online MBA w/ accounting concentration to obtain these credits and the MBA?

The legend of la Lechuza is one that can be heard all over Mexico. It is said that a lechuza, or owl, specifically a white owl, is a bruja or witch that has taken the form of this owl. There are small owls that are believed to be witches, but the legend of La Lechuza is one giant owl. Some say it is a white owl, but there are stories and reports that it is black owl. It is 7 feet tall and has a wingspan of 15 feet. Although it is an owl, it is said to have the face of an old woman. This specific lechuza has been reported only in Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas and in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas and California, especially southern CA. According to most variations of the legend, the Lechuza was once a woman who was wronged and now seeks revenge. Sometimes villagers killed her child, other times the child was killed by a drunk (and she is known to attack drunkards). Some other versions of the legend tell that the witch herself was killed by locals and came back to seek revenge. Depending on where you hear the tale, the lechuza is sometimes just one bruja, but in other places, any bruja can become this giant owl, it is a witch that has sold her soul to the devil and they transform at night. Legend says that the cry of a Lechuza mimics the cry of a baby or whistles and they use it to lure you outside, to take you and make you their meal. Sometimes the cry of the Lechuza is said to be an omen of death, if you hear it, a family member will die. Some say dreaming of the Lechuza is also an omen of death. The Lechuza is so big that it can carry a grown adult in its talons. The Lechuza is said to bring storms with it and cannot be harmed by guns. It is also said to prey on human emotions, often appearing during domestic disputes and waiting for her next victim to storm outside. Some versions of the legend, the Lechuza only preys on adult men, drunks specifically, but in others the lechuza craves the blood of newborn babies and especially unbaptized babies. It is common to be told, “do not whistle three times at midnight” for it is an invitation for the Lechuza. It is said the Lechuza has swooped down on cars and can travel at the same speed. According to legend, salt can protect against it, and many put salt on their windows at night for protection. If you see it, you should also cuss her out to drive it away, but other versions of the legend say this may make it more mad, so be wary of this one. Tying a rope of 7 knots and hanging it on your door will also protect you, since it is a sign of acknowledgement and respect toward the lechuza. Some say praying can also save you, specifically the Magnifica (Magnificat), a prayer from the gospel of Saint Luke, but it must be recited in Spanish and then also backwards. There are many stories of sightings of the Lechuza, the following is Nuevo Laredo, in the 1950s: There was a lechuza terrorizing the town, and the locals came up with a plan to kill it. It was lured out of the trees by using a child as bait. When the Lechuza attempted to take the kid, locals fired at it with guns, but only hit its claws before it flew away. The next day, they went to the house of the bruja they believed to be the Lechuza and she answered the door with a bandaged leg. This is a story found on reddit, from the 90s or early 2000s: A 9 year old living south of San Antonio, TX, in between two little towns called Von Ormy and Lytle was at home alone watching Spongebob. The sun had just set and it was a full moon. (we’ll use a fake name), Child heard noises outside and thought it was their dad coming home from work and naturally went outside excited to greet their dad. However, their dad was not out there, instead it was a massive owl. It was sitting on a picnic table across the street and looking right at them. The massive bird was jet black. It stared for another 15 minutes but then left when the father arrived home. The kid told their grandma about this and she began praying and doing a limpieza (a cleaning) with an egg, and told the kid the story of the lechuza. The kid did not feel fear however, and wondered if the bird was there to warn them about something. Not too much later, there was a giant storm that damaged a lot, except the house and the picnic table where the lechuza was sitting.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with what a biogas plant is, how it works or what they're actually used for allow me to educate you. A biogas plant produces natural gas, or rather a substitute for natural gas, from fermented corn silage as well as other agricultural waste products. Farmers, such as myself, would bring in silage which we would unload into a large concrete bunker silo, basically just a big walled in pit. The plant I delivered to used a modified snowcat to push the silage around and pack it down evenly in the pit. Once one pit filled up they would tarp it and leave it to ferment and move on to the next pit. Once a pit was fully fermented they would uncover it and use a large wheel loader to shovel the fermented silage into what's called an anaerobic digester. It's basically just a big tank with an agitator that you fill up with a bunch of organic matter and heat it up which produces methane gas as the microorganisms inside begin to break everything down. This gas is then captured and can be used for basically everything natural gas is used for already but it's supposed to be better for the environment or something. These plants are way more common in Europe but they have started to pop up here in North America as well. And yes, before you ask, these places smell worse than you could possibly imagine.
I always thought it was a little bit weird that they built one way up here in Northern Alberta but since the large dairy farm I worked at pretty much always had an excess of corn silage every year, we certainly welcomed another place to sell it to especially since they're not picky. Trying to sell to another dairy farmer is always a hassle because they're always concerned with the quality, as they should be if they're feeding it to their cows, but the biogas plant basically just needs organic matter, it doesn't really matter what it is. If it can decompose you can make gas out of it.
Last fall we had an exceptionally good corn harvest to the point where we still had 4 more fields still to harvest by the time we had enough to feed the cows for the next year. As I said this isn't uncommon. When you're harvesting corn for silage you use a totally different harvester. Rather than a combine that separates out the actual corn kernels from the rest of the plant you use a forage harvester which is essentially a giant woodchipper on wheels that takes in the whole crop and shreds it up. Since corn can easily grow 10 feet high and you spread that over a few thousand acres you get a crazy high volume of silage coming in. Upon realizing how much excess we had my boss did what he always did and called up the plant who as always agreed to take in what we didn't need. The next morning rather than trucking back to the farm we were instructed to head straight over to the plant once our trailers had filled up.
I arrived with my first load at the plant around 10 am. A man wearing a high vis jacket directed me onto the large scale they used to weigh the trucks coming in and out. "Good harvest this year Jim?" The friendly old lady in the scalehouse said as she took down the weight of my loaded truck. I felt bad as I had been delivering to this plant on and off for the last 8 years I had worked on Mr. Baker's dairy farm but I couldn't remember, or I'd just never learned her name. Oh well, I certainly wasn't going to out myself now. "Well if we're delivering here you know it's a good one," I replied. "And there's plenty more where this came from." "Glad to hear it!" She smiled back at me handing me my paperwork. "Now you just head right on down to the back there and the boys will show you where to dump" "Thank you," I said taking the papers from her and putting my truck back into gear.
I pulled off the scale and made my way to the back of the plant where the big concrete pits are. Some more men in high vis gear directed me to back into a specific one. The giant pit was only about half full at the this point but the mountain of silage in my rear view mirrors still looked to be about 30 feet deep at its highest point. As usual they had me back up until my trailer started to climb the pile a bit. this way there were no gaps in the pile and the snowcat wouldn't have to do as much pushing. As I watched the back wheels of my trailer roll on to the silage pile in my mirrors I heard the unmistakable sound of a tire blowing out. A loud pop and then a slow hiss that quickly dissipated. "Shit!" I thought to myself as I hopped out to inspect the damage. One of the workers had also come to see what had happened.
"Must be one of your inside tires" he said to me as I approached, "all the outside ones look fine." I bent down and looked under the truck, sure enough he was right. The inside tire on the right side of the rear axle was completely flat. "Well I suppose that's why semi trucks have dual wheels," I said trying to sound unfazed while simultaneously preparing myself for the ass chewing I was bound to receive for this later. I walked around to the back of the truck to inspect the damage further and saw what had punctured my tire. I stumbled back a bit as I realized it was what appeared to be a broken bone sticking out of the tire. "What the..." I said mostly to myself but the worker must've heard too as it caused him to look down at it as well. When he did his face went white for a second then he composed himself. "Well I'll be damned," he said, "I've been here since the plant opened and I ain't never seen that before, some uh, poor animal must've gone through the forage harvester, or uh, some farmer's dog must've dug it up and dropped it in their silo." He seemed real shifty as he said this and almost seemed like he was trying to convince himself of what he was saying but I brushed it off as I figured he was probably just as shocked as I was.
While I was still able to unload I did have to leave the truck and trailer at the plant that night. A mobile tire repair service would be out in the morning to get it all fixed up. I got a ride back to the farm with our next truck to arrive at the plant and finished out the day pressure washing the manure spreaders. No doubt a reward for my efforts that day. I had to take a good long shower at the farm office before getting in my truck to head home for the night. As I started the engine I went to pull my phone out of my pocket to plug it in to the charger and realized that I didn't have it. I padded all my other pockets, nope definitely not there. I then realized that I had likely left it in the semi which was now at the plant, probably locked behind a gate for the night. Logically I could have just waited till morning to go and retrieve it. I was probably just going to go straight to bed when I got home anyway so what did I need my phone for? But because humans now have separation anxiety from their phones burned into them at age 3 I found myself pulling out on to the road in the direction of the plant rather than home. I hoped there would be some friendly night security guard that would let me in to grab it and I'd be on my way in 5 minutes.
I reached the plant just as it was getting dark and indeed there was a security guard standing at the gate as I pulled up. A very heavily armed security guard. He had what looked like a military rifle slung over his back and I wondered what on earth he needed that for. They were very illegal for civilians to own here in the great white north so they must've had a damn good reason to arm their security like this for the government to let them do it. He looked rather intimidating but surprisingly was not at all antagonistic when I rolled down my window. "Are you lost partner?" He said in a rather friendly tone. "No, no, I work for one of the farms that delivers here," I said, "My truck blew a tire on the trailer earlier today and it's still sitting over by pit 3 and I think I left my phone in the cab, do you mind if I go check?" He gave me a suspicious look, then he peered into the pickup bed and generally looked over me and my truck, then he gazed off down the road and looked at his watch. "Alright you got 10 minutes, and try and stay out of the night shift's way" he said in a much less friendly tone.
A loud click and then a buzzing sound came from the gate as it began to move and I drove through it. By now it was almost completely dark but the large spotlights of the plant made it easy to navigate. I came around the corner and saw my truck still sitting across from pit 3 and I pulled up in front of it. As I got out I noticed that there was a large excavator up on top of the pile in pit 4. I knew it was digging into the silage but I couldn't really see what it was doing properly because the concrete wall that separated pits 3 and 4 partially obscured it. I could also see the roof of the snowcat peeking up over the wall. It must've been parked a little ways away on top of the pile and I figured it must've gotten stuck and they were using the excavator to try and get it out. I paid it little attention as I entered the cab of the semi truck and quickly found my phone in the cupholder. I grabbed it and just as I was climbing down a voice called out to me.
"Hey who the fuck are you?? And what are you doing here???" A disgruntled looking worker wearing the same high vis gear was running towards me. "I just left my phone in this truck here, the security guard let me in to grab it" I stammered backing up towards my pickup. "Of course he fucking did" the man grumbled and he snatched his radio out of his jacket pocket. "Peter what the hell did you let this dumbass in here for you can't be doing that!" He shouted into the radio. "Relax they're not even here yet" the guard's voice crackled through the radio. "Umm actually I see headlights if he's got his phone tell him to get out of there." The man looked back to me. "You heard him son get lost and don't come back here after delivery hours again you got it?" I nodded and climbed back into my pickup truck and began to drive back towards the gate. As I exited the guard waved to me from behind the big black GMC Yukon that had pulled up to the gate. He appeared to be talking to the driver. There was a large U-Haul truck behind it followed by another black Yukon. As I passed the last vehicle I noticed in my rear view mirror the 3 trucks enter the plant ad the guard shutting the gate behind them.
That whole situation did not sit right with me. On the drive home I contemplated everything that I had seen and heard from the guard and the other worker. They were up to something in that plant at night that maybe even the bosses didn't know about. My best guess was it was some kind of drug operation. If movies have taught me anything drug kingpins always drive black SUVs. I know I should have left it alone but life up here in Northern Alberta was so boring my curiosity ended up getting the better of me. I thought that I could help bring down some kind of criminal organization and be a local hero, and that worst case scenario nothing was happening and nothing would come of it.
After harvest concluded I had a couple of days off to rest as we'd been working pretty crazy hours lately. I however did not rest. I was trying to find out everything I could about the plant and the people who ran it. I really couldn't find anything about it, in fact it was as if the place didn't exist. You would think there would at least be a news story from when they built the place what with it being the biggest boost to the local economy and job market our town had ever seen and all but there was nothing. Finally I decided the only thing to do was to see if I could observe what those black SUVs and the U-Haul truck were doing in the plant at night. Maybe get some photos of the exchange and hand them off to the police. I did some poking around on Google maps and found an old logging road that ran across the ridge behind the plant. There was a little dirt area where people often parked to unload their ATVs to go riding in the woods up there that was maybe only a kilometre or so from the north side of the plant.
I drove up there just before dark and hiked down through the woods all the way to the north fence of the plant. It was just a chain link fence like you'd see around a schoolyard not a barbed wire prison fence or anything so I made quick work of climbing over it. Luckily for me there was a lot of equipment and old dumpsters and shipping containers in this part of the plant for me to hide behind as I made my way towards where the main gate was. I crouched down behind one of their company trucks parked near the gate and waited about 20 minute before I saw the black SUVs pull up. This time though they didn't have a U-Haul they had a much larger yellow Penske box truck. They must be hauling some serious product to be renting that thing. I watched as the trucks rolled through the gate and much like they had done with me a few days prior the plant workers in high vis gear directed them back towards the pits.
I began to sneak my way over there being careful to stay out of sight. I realized very quickly that I wouldn't be able to get very close while still remaining hidden. The area around the pits was largely wide open to allow to turn around and back in so there was nothing to conceal me as I approached. I noticed the office nearby and had an idea. I snuck over to it and tried the door. It was open but the lights were off inside. Luckily no alarms went off and I found what I came for quickly. A high vis uniform and a white hard hat laying on the break room table. I also grabbed some safety glasses and a dust mask as it wasn't uncommon for the workers to wear them, there was a lot of dust around the pits, and I figured it would help conceal my identity.
After putting on the uniform and sneaking back outside I observed the workers for a few minutes to see what they were doing and how best to blend in. Most of them appeared to either be standing around watching the trucks pull up or walking somewhere so I figured just walking like I was on a mission was good enough. Turns out I didn't need to fake it for long. As I neared the yellow Penske truck I saw some men getting out of the black SUVs. They were dressed in what looked like church robes but definitely not Catholic since they didn't have the collar. One of them turned to me and I froze. "Hey buddy, we got a pretty big load tonight, mind giving us a hand?" Realizing my cover was working I decided to play along and just leave the part about me helping the drug lords out of my statement to the police. I nodded and walked over with the other workers and awaited instructions.
I heard the sound of a diesel engine coming closer and looked over to see the excavator I had seen coming around the corner and begin to climb the silage pile in pit 4 again. The snowcat was behind it but instead of following the excavator up the pile it came towards us. It had some kind of large metal box attached to the blade that was about the size of a small car. The operator set the box down next to the Penske truck and hopped out. The same disgruntled man I had encountered the other night got out of the cab. "Jesus man, that's a big truck you got there, probably gonna take a couple trips to unload this thing," he said to the men in robes. One of them opened up the back of the box truck and where I expected to see a giant pile of cocaine bricks or something there was something I never expected.
Bodies, and lots of them just thrown haphazardly into the back of this truck. I had to fight the urge to fill my dust mask with vomit as I saw them. The workers began loading them into the box on the blade of the snowcat just tossing them on with little regard for how they landed. No one seemed to notice me just standing there so I slowly backed up into the shadows and made my way over to pit 3. It was almost full by now so I climbed up the pile to a spot where I could look over the concrete wall into pit 4 where the excavator was without being spotted. Once up there I saw the snowcat climbing up the pile towards a large hole the excavator had dug in it. There were some more workers up there who began throwing the bodies off into the hole as one of the men in robes climbed out of the passenger seat in the snowcat. He just stood on the track watching as the bodies were piled into this impromptu mass grave they had constructed. He stayed up on the pile while the snowcat went down for the second load.
This was all starting to make sense now. This was the perfect cover for disposing of bodies. They would get broken down in the piles same as everything else and because they were constantly being emptied into the digester the evidence would only be around for a few months, and the horrific smell of the plant would conceal any foul odours produced by the dead bodies. But there was one question left. Where were they coming from? This was way too many bodies for this to be the mafia or something killing off problematic individuals. By the time the truck was totally unloaded there must've been 100 dead people in that hole. No this had to be some cult activities of some sort and the robes the men from the black SUVs were wearing backed up that theory. Maybe these were just what was left over from some sort of ritual sacrifice or something? Whoever these people are they must have some kind of deal with the plant's owners because I could tell the workers had done this before. From the time the truck had arrived to the time the excavator started burying the corpses in rotting corn silage it had only taken about half an hour.
I didn't even bother ditching the uniform I got out of that plant as fast as I could. I sprinted up through those woods back towards my truck with my heart beating so fast I thought it would explode. As soon as I was in the truck I locked all the doors and dialed 911 on speaker as I peeled out of the forest. I told the operator everything that had happened over the last couple of days and what I had seen that night. I practically begged them to send someone there right away which the nice lady on the other end of the line promised they would. She asked for my name and contact information so they could get a hold of me for a statement which I gladly gave them. She assured me they would investigate the matter and I thanked her and hung up the phone. I then pulled over and got out of the truck and proceeded to finally let out all the vomit I had been holding in for the last hour or so. I ditched the plant uniform on the side of that old forest road and made my way for home.
As I was approaching my house I saw a car up ahead. As I drew closer I could make out the distinctive reflective tape they put across the back of police cars. I slowed down as I had come up on him pretty fast and I didn't want to get a speeding ticket after all I'd been through that night. I followed the cop a few more kilometres towards town. My house was on this road coming up shortly. As we approached my driveway the cop put his signal on to turn in. I breathed a sigh of relief as I guessed they had sent someone out to check on me and I was about to put my signal on as well when I noticed the black GMC Yukon parked in my driveway and the man in robes standing next to it with a gun. The cop turned in and parked next to him. Given that the cop had basically zero reaction to the man standing there with a weapon my heart sank as I realized whatever this is runs much, muh deeper than I thought and revealing who I was to that 911 dispatcher had just dommed me. I kept on driving praying that neither of them recognized me and thanking the Alberta government for not requiring front license plates that the cop would have totally seen on the drive over otherwise.
I just kept on driving, expecting at any minute to see police lights behind me or a big black SUV blocking the road ahead of me and men in dark robes coming out of the darkness to get me, but nothing happened. I don;t even know how long I drove for I just drove until I had to pee so badly I was forced to stop at a truck stop and realized I was somewhere in Saskatchewan. I've been on the run so to speak now for about 6 months. I don't know if anyone's even following me but I have to be sure. I'm writing this all out to get it off my chest and out there as a warning before I ditch this phone and start my life over in another province as far away from there as I can get. I don't know what's going on up there but there is something very dark happening in northern Alberta and I've probably only scratched the surface of it. Either way I want no part of any of it.

I am 27 years old and I have diminished ovarian reserve, likely due to endometriosis, which was diagnosed through laparoscopy 3 years ago. My fiance and I did two egg retrievals this year, one in February and one in April. Both times, I did everything to the letter. I ate based on recommendations, changed my routines for at least a month and half before each cycle. I did my best to remain stressless, quit wedding planning, put plans on hold.
We only got 4 eggs from my first retrieval. One fertilized, and it made it to freezing. We added Lupron for my second retrieval, which was absolutely hell on my body and mental health. With that addition, we got 10 eggs. 4 fertilized, but only 2 made it to blastocyst, and only 1 was genetically normal. So only 2 embryos for 2 rounds, 1 of which is poorer quality. None of which are our slightly preferred gender
I had some company funds from my work to facilitate parts of these cycles, but I'm out now. Getting one embryo for every $25k doesn't feel worth it, and I think I might need to hold on to some funds to ask my sisters to do retrievals if my embryos don't end up working out. I just don't think I can do it again.
I'm so, so sad. I'm so angry. I'm so disappointed. I'm so worried. We haven't tried naturally since we were really hoping to wait a couple years to have kids. Have time to get married and relax post-wedding. Wait for some of our other friends to start heading this way. The timeline has now changed, and we will need to start trying much sooner than we planned.
I know it's not the end of the road, and we still have trying naturally as an option, but when I found out today that 3 total embryos had changed to 2, it felt like everything I have ever wanted was taken from me. 3 felt like so much more of a sure thing than 2 does. I have made every decision of the last 12 years of my life because I want to be a mentally healthy, financially stable mother. It has affected my career choice, my financial savings, my partner choice, my choice to work hard in therapy, my choice to work on my relationship with food. And now it feels so tentative. So impossible. Even if natural route fails, I know the backup option didn't work for me.

Digital marketing has evolved rapidly over the past decade, transforming from a supplementary tactic into a primary strategy for businesses worldwide. As we navigate through 2024, the landscape of digital marketing continues to shift, driven by technological advancements, changes in consumer behavior, and the increasing importance of data and personalization. This comprehensive guide delves into the core aspects of digital marketing today, offering insights and strategies that can help businesses thrive in this dynamic environment.

Introduction to Digital Marketing

What is Digital Marketing?

Digital marketing encompasses all marketing efforts that use an electronic device or the internet. Businesses leverage digital channels such as search engines, social media, email, websites, and mobile apps to connect with current and prospective customers. Unlike traditional marketing, which often relies on print ads, billboards, and television, digital marketing offers a more direct and interactive way to engage with audiences.

The Importance of Digital Marketing

1. Reach and Accessibility: With over 4.9 billion internet users globally, digital marketing provides unparalleled access to potential customers.
2. Cost-Effectiveness: Digital marketing campaigns can be significantly cheaper than traditional marketing methods.
3. Measurability: Digital platforms offer robust analytics tools that help marketers measure the effectiveness of their campaigns in real-time.
4. Targeted Campaigns: Advanced targeting options enable marketers to reach specific audiences based on demographics, interests, and behaviors.

Core Components of Digital Marketing

1. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

SEO involves optimizing your website to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs), thereby increasing organic traffic. Key aspects of SEO include:

• Keyword Research: Identifying relevant keywords and phrases that potential customers use to search for products or services.
• On-Page SEO: Optimizing individual web pages, including title tags, meta descriptions, headers, and content.
• Off-Page SEO: Building backlinks from reputable sites to increase domain authority.
• Technical SEO: Ensuring your website is mobile-friendly, fast-loading, and free of technical errors.

2. Content Marketing

Content marketing focuses on creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and engage a clearly defined audience. Effective content marketing involves:

• Blogging: Regularly publishing informative and engaging blog posts.
• Infographics: Visual content that simplifies complex information.
• Videos: Engaging video content that can be shared across various platforms.
• E-books and Whitepapers: In-depth content that provides significant value and insight.

3. Social Media Marketing

Social media marketing uses platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok to promote products and services. Key strategies include:

• Content Creation and Sharing: Posting regular updates, images, videos, and stories to engage with followers.
• Paid Advertising: Utilizing sponsored posts and targeted ads to reach a broader audience.
• Community Engagement: Responding to comments, messages, and reviews to foster a sense of community and loyalty.

4. Email Marketing

Email marketing involves sending targeted messages to a group of subscribers. It is highly effective for:

• Nurturing Leads: Sending informative and promotional emails to potential customers.
• Customer Retention: Keeping existing customers engaged with newsletters, special offers, and updates.
• Personalization: Tailoring emails based on user behavior and preferences to increase engagement.

5. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising

PPC advertising allows businesses to place ads on search engines and social media platforms, paying only when a user clicks on the ad. Effective PPC campaigns require:

• Keyword Selection: Choosing the right keywords to bid on.
• Ad Creation: Designing compelling ad copy and visuals.
• Budget Management: Allocating budget effectively to maximize ROI.
• Performance Analysis: Monitoring and optimizing ad performance regularly.

6. Influencer Marketing

Influencer marketing leverages the reach and credibility of social media influencers to promote products or services. Key steps include:

• Identifying Influencers: Finding influencers whose audience aligns with your target market.
• Collaboration: Partnering with influencers to create authentic and engaging content.
• Measuring Impact: Analyzing the performance of influencer campaigns through metrics such as engagement and conversions.

Trends in Digital Marketing for 2024

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning are transforming digital marketing by providing deeper insights and automating complex tasks. Applications include:

• Personalization: AI can analyze vast amounts of data to deliver personalized content and recommendations.
• Chatbots: Automated chatbots enhance customer service by providing instant responses to queries.
• Predictive Analytics: Machine learning models predict customer behavior, helping businesses tailor their marketing strategies.

2. Voice Search Optimization

With the rise of smart speakers and voice-activated devices, optimizing for voice search is becoming crucial. Key considerations include:

• Natural Language Processing: Ensuring content is optimized for conversational queries.
• Local SEO: Voice searches often have local intent, making local SEO more important.
• Structured Data: Using schema markup to help search engines understand and present content more effectively.

3. Video Marketing

Video continues to dominate digital content consumption. Effective video marketing strategies include:

• Short-Form Videos: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels prioritize short, engaging videos.
• Live Streaming: Real-time video content allows for immediate interaction with audiences.
• Interactive Videos: Incorporating clickable elements and calls to action within videos to boost engagement.

4. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

AR and VR are providing immersive experiences that enhance customer engagement. Applications include:

• Virtual Try-Ons: Allowing customers to visualize products in a real-world context.
• Interactive Experiences: Creating virtual tours and demonstrations that provide in-depth product information.

5. Privacy and Data Protection

With increasing concerns over data privacy, businesses must prioritize transparency and compliance. Key practices include:

• GDPR and CCPA Compliance: Adhering to regulations that protect consumer data.
• Transparent Data Practices: Clearly communicating how customer data is collected, used, and protected.
• Data Security: Implementing robust security measures to safeguard sensitive information.

Developing a Digital Marketing Strategy

Creating an effective digital marketing strategy involves several key steps:

1. Define Your Goals

Identify what you want to achieve with your digital marketing efforts. Common goals include:

• Increasing Brand Awareness: Reaching a broader audience and enhancing brand recognition.
• Generating Leads: Attracting potential customers and capturing their contact information.
• Driving Sales: Converting leads into paying customers.
• Improving Customer Retention: Keeping existing customers engaged and loyal.

2. Understand Your Audience

Conduct thorough research to understand your target audience’s demographics, preferences, and behaviors. Use tools like Google Analytics, social media insights, and customer surveys to gather data.

3. Choose the Right Channels

Select the digital marketing channels that best align with your goals and audience. Consider factors such as:

• Platform Popularity: Which platforms are most popular with your target audience?
• Content Type: What type of content (text, images, video) resonates most with your audience?
• Engagement Levels: Which platforms offer the highest engagement rates for your industry?

4. Create Compelling Content

Develop high-quality content that provides value to your audience. Consider the following content types:

• Educational Content: Blog posts, tutorials, and webinars that inform and educate.
• Entertaining Content: Videos, memes, and interactive content that entertain and engage.
• Promotional Content: Product announcements, sales offers, and testimonials that drive conversions.

5. Implement and Monitor Campaigns

Launch your digital marketing campaigns and continuously monitor their performance. Use analytics tools to track key metrics such as:

• Website Traffic: Measure the number of visitors and their behavior on your site.
• Conversion Rates: Track the percentage of visitors who take the desired action (e.g., make a purchase).
• Engagement Metrics: Analyze likes, shares, comments, and other forms of engagement on social media.

6. Optimize and Iterate

Based on your performance data, make adjustments to your strategy to improve results. Consider A/B testing different elements of your campaigns to identify what works best.

Conclusion

Digital marketing is an ever-evolving field that requires continuous learning and adaptation. By understanding the core components, staying abreast of trends, and developing a strategic approach, businesses can effectively navigate the digital landscape and achieve their marketing goals. As we move forward in 2024, the importance of data-driven decision-making, personalization, and innovative technologies will only continue to grow, shaping the future of digital marketing.