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WeddingPlanning
2010.06.22 20:33 katiejoh WeddingPlanning
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2024.05.21 19:25 arusuvai_arasu Understanding What Wedding Planners Do and How They Can Help You
 | https://preview.redd.it/107elvfkdt1d1.png?width=656&format=png&auto=webp&s=b36e4b9abb39cf6df0bdcdb15cf59a68ead93685 submitted by arusuvai_arasu to u/arusuvai_arasu [link] [comments] Planning a wedding is a joyous occasion, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between the venue, attire, guest list, and a million other details, it's easy to feel like you're drowning in decisions. Thankfully, there are wedding planners – your superheroes ready to swoop in and transform the chaos into a cohesive, stress-free experience. But what exactly does a wedding planner do, and how do they work with wedding catering services to create your dream wedding feast? Let's delve into the world of these organizational wizards and shed light on their collaboration with the culinary artists who bring your wedding menu to life. The Guiding Hand of Your Wedding Planner Imagine a maestro conducting a complex symphony. That's essentially a wedding planner's role! They oversee the entire wedding production, ensuring every element – from the music to the flowers – harmonizes beautifully. Here's a glimpse into their multifaceted role: Understanding Your Vision: The initial consultations are all about you, the happy couple. Your planner listens intently to your dreams, preferences, and budget, painting a clear picture of your ideal wedding. Budget Management: From venue rentals to wedding catering, planners help you create a on realistic budgets and allocate funds strategically. They can even suggest clever cost-saving measures without compromising on quality. Vendor Matchmaking: They act as your matchmakers, connecting you with the perfect wedding caterers, photographer, florist, and other vendors who align with your vision and budget. They'll also handle communication and contract negotiations, freeing you up to focus on the bigger picture. The Design Duo: Wedding planners collaborate with you on the overall design aesthetic, considering everything from color palettes to centerpieces. They'll ensure the caterer's presentation complements the chosen theme, creating a seamless flow throughout the event. Timeline & Checklist Masters: Staying on track is crucial, and your planner excels at creating detailed timelines and checklists. This ensures no task gets overlooked, and the caterers have ample time to prepare and deliver their culinary masterpiece. Wedding Day Orchestration: The big day arrives, and your planner is the maestro, ensuring everything runs smoothly. They coordinate with the wedding planners on meal timings, service flow, and any special requests you may have. Wedding Planners and Caterers Your wedding feast is a significant aspect of the celebration. Wedding planners understand this and work closely with wedding catering services to create an unforgettable dining experience. Here's how this collaboration unfolds: Understanding Dietary Needs & Preferences: Both planners and caterers pay close attention to dietary restrictions and preferences among your guests. They'll work together to ensure a menu that caters to everyone's needs without sacrificing taste or presentation. Venue Liaison: Some venues have in-house catering options, while others allow external providers. Your planner acts as a liaison, ensuring clear communication between the venue and the chosen wedding planners regarding space limitations, kitchen access, and any logistical considerations. Menu Design & Tastings: Planners often accompany you to catering consultations, offering valuable input on menu design and flow. They'll ensure the menu complements the overall wedding theme and reflects your taste preferences. They can also help schedule menu tastings, allowing you to experience the culinary delights firsthand. Seating Chart & Service Coordination: The planner works with the wedding planners to finalize the seating chart, ensuring a smooth service flow. This includes factoring in meal preferences and any special dietary needs when assigning tables. The Big Day Feast: On your wedding day, the planner works like clockwork with the wedding caterers. They ensure timely meal service, address any last-minute requests, and oversee the overall food presentation, guaranteeing a flawless dining experience for you and your guests. In Conclusion Wedding planners are invaluable partners in creating a stress-free and unforgettable wedding experience. Their expertise extends to collaborating seamlessly with catering services, ensuring your guests are treated to a delicious and visually stunning feast that perfectly complements your dream wedding. So, if you're feeling overwhelmed by the planning process, consider partnering with a wedding planner. They'll be your guiding light, ensuring every detail, from the catering to the decor, comes together in perfect harmony, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – celebrating your love! |
2024.05.21 16:57 CDown01 Eagles Peak Pt.9
Previous Part
The next day went by in a blur. Rocco was walking the perimeter of the camp, keeping an eye out for Brooke when I woke up. I didn’t really think he’d leave, but it seemed to give Rocco something to do other than being a general menace to society. All of us ate breakfast as normal but no one really said much. I’m not sure if they were still reeling from things they saw yesterday or if they just weren’t in a talking mood. The thought occurred to me that Shaoni may have payed a visit to each of them as well. Prying into what they saw and answering questions they might have. Honestly the whole thing felt like we were guinea pigs. Shaoni didn’t really seem to have a great handle on the trials so far. It was… mildly concerning that the ringmaster of all this didn’t seem 100% in control anymore.
Actually, I’d thought about that a lot last night. Shaoni just sort of left us to our own devices when we went through those “visions” yesterday. It’s not like she backed up her claim that she’d know what we’d seen either. If anything the fact that she came to ask me about it made me even more suspicious that she wasn’t really sure what she was doing. It was the first time I’d ever thought of Shaoni as anything other than in complete control. Slowly but surely it was becoming glaringly obvious that wasn’t the case.
If I was remembering correctly today’s trial was the trial of strength. I sincerely hoped that was a metaphor for something. You’ve got to understand, I’m not a very strong person, not physically anyways. I hoped Shaoni wanted to test mental strength or strength of will something like that. My hopes shattered as we arrived at the coliseum and saw an arena set up. There were several dummies in a corner, the kind you would see used in martial arts or HEMA or something to that effect. At the foot of the dummies were several wooden clubs. I couldn’t see them to clearly but they almost looked clawed from a distance. The real centerpiece was the platform in the middle of the coliseum. It looked like a stage and I’m sure that’s exactly how we were going to use it. The raised wooden platform had been constructed with boards placed across the top. It looked like those boards could be removed and under that was simply the cold hard ground about two feet below.
Katrina’s eyes lit up as she looked over the room.
“Now this is what I’m talking about, a real trial!”
She just about shrieked in excitement, throwing one fist in the air and startling the rest of us to attention. Katrina was the only one that really seemed excited about this. John and Robert just looked accepting and I’m not sure Brooke had put two and two together yet. I’d seen the clubs laid out by the dummies and already figured we’d be sparing with each other.
“Good morning everyone, I hope your ready for today.”
Called Shaoni, emerging unseen from behind us. Anyone who wasn’t fully awake at that point sure was then. There’s just something about Shaoni that makes you really really not want her to show up behind you unannounced. Probably why she kept doing it to us.
“Today I will test your strength, while I’d rather avoid conflict it’s sometimes unavoidable. My ideal candidate not only knows themselves but can handle themselves as well. We will allow you some time to familiarize yourself with the war clubs you’ll be using. Then you will compete against each other to find the strongest, most skilled warrior among you.”
Shaoni explained, Katrina’ excitement growing with every word.
I wasn’t to keen to participate in any of this but, like usual, I didn’t really have much of a choice at this point.
“So will you be sticking around this time then?”
I asked, wondering if Shaoni was going to cut and run again.
“I have other matters to attend to today. While I would like to stay and observe the whole day I need to prepare things for the final trial tomorrow. I’ll be back in time to see you test each other though.”
She replied dismissively, already on her way out. Shaoni seemed almost uninterested in us now. For someone evaluating us she seemed awful happy to pass off the evaluation to her followers. I didn’t say anything else as she walked out of the coliseum and towards the exit.
As I walked over to the little training area I saw the clubs were actually ornate masterpieces. They were carved from a hard dark wood. The handles resembled an eagles talon, curving near the end to grip a wooden orb. Whoever made these was beyond skilled, these things were works of art. I didn’t have much time to admire them before Katrina interrupted me.
“Hey, Keith was it? Want me to show you how to use these things?”
She called over to me, it was more of a command than a question but that’s pretty par for the course with her.
“If you want, sure. I’m uh… I’m kinda a fish out of water with this find of thing.”
I told her, rubbing the back of my neck with one hand in embarrassment. I wasn’t sure why she was singling me out for that but she answered that question for me.
“Good, Those two creep me out and that one has been drooling over me since we got here.”
She said, pointing over at Robert and John who had already started practicing, then at Brooke. Katrina showed absolutely no subtly in any of this, earning us looks from all three of the others.
I was a little afraid of Katrina teaching me anything, if someone was gonna kill me by accident it would be her. That and she still had that gun on her. Despite my misgivings she was actually a pretty good teacher. She was a bit like a drill instructor but I learned a thing or two. By the time we were done I felt like I might stand half a chance in this trial.
“Just remember your footwork, keep your balance and the rest should come natural. Oh, and if we get paired up, take a dive, it’ll be less painful.”
Katrina added with a smirk, walking over towards the group by the stage in the center of the room. Shaoni had just come back in and was up on the balcony. A few of her followers had collected us and informed us we were about to start the, ”practical part”, as they put it.
“There’s five of you so for the first matchup one of my own will serve as the opponent. Anyone what to go first?”
Shaoni asked us, looking down with a raised eyebrow and waiting for a response. Before I realized what I’d done my hand was in the air, my body subconsciously wanting to get this over with as fast as possible. Shaoni actually looked surprised as she gestured for me to take my place on the stage. Two of the boards had been removed on either side leaving us something like six feet of space to work with before falling off the platform. But I was far less concerned about that after I saw the guy walking over. It was the driver from a few days ago when Shaoni had me brought out to the camp. The guy that had his friend stabbed by Bianca, he didn’t look like he’d forgotten about that as they gave him his club.
As I took my place on the stage the only thing I was thinking was exactly how bad it hurt when you got hit with one of these things.
“Begin when you are ready.”
Called Shaoni from her place on the balcony. The guy across from me took absolutely no time to think, charging at me wildly right away. I tried to brace myself and remember Katrina’s training, taking an even stance and angling my club for the coming blow. I did manage to block his strike but the force of it threw me to the ground. My mind went into full survival mode as he swung down at me. He was way less fluid than Katrina had been when she was showing me the ropes. He just seemed like he wanted to hurt me by any means necessary. As I rolled from side to side avoiding his blows I waited for an opening. He took a particularly hard swing at my head and I rolled at the last possible second. He lost his balance, giving me a chance to slip between his legs and get back to my feet. I stood back up narrowly avoiding a swing for my head as my opponent regained his balance and swung back at me. His wide hate fueled swing carried his whole body around with it and gave me another opening. I planted my feet and took one hard swing at the man’s turned shoulder hitting him right on the bone with a sickening crack. He stumbled around towards the edge, turning his back to me. I took one final swing, hoisting the club above my head and bringing it down in between his shoulder blades with a hollow thud. The blow sent him tumbling forward over the edge and off the stage, falling to the floor below.
Katrina shot me a quick thumbs up as I walked off the stage while Shaoni looked down at me and gave me an approving nod. No one else seemed to pay me any mind as I rejoined the group. I felt empowered, I hadn’t expected to get even that far, maybe there was a chance for me in this trial after all. Robert and John fought next and despite their age they each held their own. In the end John forced Robert off the edge, his age and weight throwing off his balance. I was still impressed either of them could move like they had, I guess I shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Then Katrina fought Brooke in the last… round I guess I’d call it. The smile on her face was unsettling from the moment she realized she’d be paired up with him, like a shark smelling blood in the water. You could just tell that she was going to take pleasure in what happened next.
That smile was still on her face as she walked up onto the stage and took her place across from Brooke.
“I hope you like it rough baby, cause I’m not going easy on you!”
Brooke called to her from the other side of the stage making a point to puff out his chest and flex his muscles. That set her off like a bomb, the smile disappeared and she exploded towards Brooke. I saw the exact moment that false confidence left his eyes and he actually turned to run, he was far to late and way to slow. Her first strike went low, shooting out in front of Brooke and coming back to catch his knee sending him tripping forward. He tried to regain his balance but she had no intention of letting him. Katrina swung out in front of him again, this time catching his neck with the club on its way back. That sent him flat onto his back, the club falling form his hand and rolling off the edge of the stage was the only sound in the whole coliseum. All eyes focused on Katrina as she took a breath then delivered a kick to Brooke’s ribs so hard that he went rolling off the edge, following his club. I returned her thumbs up she had given me as she rejoined the group.
Next, those of us who remained got matched up with each other. Shaoni wanted to use another one of her followers to stand in but Katrina insisted on just going twice. That meant I’d fight her and then the winner would fight John to see who the victor of the day was. As I stood across from Katrina I considered taking her advice from before, “…Just take a dive…” she had said. I thought about it, I really did, but I’d done so well earlier right? Why stop now? While I’d been thinking Katrina had walked up to me and started to swing. I had just enough time to realize my mistake before she cracked me across the head so hard she knocked me out.
I came to an hour later, alone on an animal skin cot. I was still in the coliseum but everyone else had left apparently. The only thing I saw when I got up from the ground was the torchlight illuminating the passage that lead back outside. That and the note scribbled on a scrap of a sticky note taped to my fore head.
“I told you to take a dive.”
Well at least she might feel bad about knocking me out. I figured we must be done for the day given how dead the camp seemed when I emerged back into the light. With nothing better to do, I walked off towards the forest to clear my head. I wondered what Bianca had been up to since I’d been gone as I aimlessly wandered around the forest’s edge.
“No that wouldn’t work! We don’t know what’s up there and we are not just waltzing in through the front gates!”
Stein yelled at me as I went over my most recent idea for breaking Keith out of whatever trials were going on out by the old mine. It had been two days since I watched him get kidnapped in front of me and I was getting drastic, aaaannd maybe a little dramatic.
“But I could do it guys! Remember back at the reservation? Those guys were willing to do anything for me and there can’t be that many guards in one place. Maybe I just convince a small group to lead us in and make an excuse for us.”
“For the last time Bianca, They’re just about cultists far as I can tell. You ain’t gonna be able to fight the kinda conviction they have to that bird, even if ya could its to much of a risk.”
Tuck protested from his seat at the kitchen table.
The kitchen table had become our war room over the past few days. A map of Eagles Peak Frank had made lay across it with dozens of pins stuck in around where the old mine would be.
“I don’t think an approach from the front is a good idea at all. You and Keith got to the mine through the forest once. Could we follow that path, approach without anyone knowing we were there?”
Stein theorized as he paced back and forth at the head of the table.
“Well, we really just wandered around for a bit and ended up there. We didn’t find the mine either, it was a hole that lead down to an old cavern near the mine. They turned out to be connected but that was just dumb luck.”
I explained to the group. Tuck looked like that had given him an idea.
“So you two got some backdoor entrance figured out that you’re only just tellin’ me about? That could be perfect! The four of us could make our way out and drop through that hole, take em all by surprise!”
Tuck exclaimed, leaping to his feet. His enthusiasm was nice but it wasn’t going to be that easy.
“We… kinda made a bit of a scene when we were there, they might be watching for something like that to happen again.”
“True, but it’s the best entrance strategy I’ve heard so far, I think following up on it is worth a try.”
Frank added with a nod. Stein then started pacing up and down the length of the table for a bit. He was coming up with something, that much was obvious.
“So we’ll enter through this hole leading into a cave connected to the old mine. From what you told us about your time there its some sort of staging area for these trials, at least that’s my best guess. Odds are there won’t be many people there overnight so we make our way out there during the night. From there we move through the cave and into the mine but after that we know nothing about what we’re running into.”
Stein lectured to his audience.
“But I think we have a solution for that. Frank do we still have that drone?”
An hour later the four of us were gathered at the edge of town on that path Keith and I had taken into the forest. The trees growing together forming a sort of arch over our head’s were unsettling but I couldn’t decide why. It just didn’t sit well with me, it looked unnatural I guess and that just gave me the creeps. I get that’s rich coming from a literal succubus but its how I felt.
“Alright, just watch the trees as you take it up, I don’t want a repeat of Missouri.”
Stein instructed Frank as he got the drone in the air.
“You’re never going to let me live that down are you?”
Frank chuckled, shaking his head.
“It was the first time we used this thing, there was bound to be a few unexpected variables.”
“If you call “unexpected variables” an itchy finger on the throttle. We had to have Rocco untangle it from the branches.”
Stein joked as he checked to make sure the drones camera was feeding back into the app on his phone.
I hadn’t seen them like this, being friendly with each other. There was never a time where they hated each other or anything like that but they’d been so… business like with for a long time now. It was nice to see them act like real people again. Leaning over Stein’s shoulder I got a birds eye view from the drone.
“ Just go East, its what we did. Just walked East till we stumbled into everything.”
Frank followed my advice and flew the drone due East. Eventually a campsite came into view, there were a bunch of tepees and a bunch of people just walking around.
“What, they just look normal?!”
I blurted out, a little louder and a bit more distressed than I meant to.
“How’re they supposed ta look then?”
Tuck asked
“They’re just people like you n’ me. Nothin to special about em other than the fact they worship some big ass bird.”
He continued with mild annoyance.
“I don’t know, I guess I expected these creepy guys in tarps, like from Keith’s story. These are just… well they’re just people!”
I responded, Throwing my arms out to my sides in exasperation. Tuck was right, I shouldn’t have expected everything to be just as Keith had said. Still, something just didn’t fit together for me about that whole thing. What had the deal been with those people in Imalone then? I shook my head, clearing the question from my mind, it wasn’t important now.
“There! That’s the entrance to the old mine.”
Tuck told Stein as he looked at screen. I looked over myself and felt my entire being freeze. It was Brooke, walking out from the entrance with some bitchy looking girl and two older guys that I’d seen around town before. How could he be here? After all this time why, why was he anywhere near me?
My vision swam, when it came back Frank was standing in front of me. His mouth was moving but I couldn’t hear anything.
“…anca! Are you ok, what’s going on? Bianca!”
I finally heard over the sudden ringing in my ears.
“Him.”
Was the only thing the escaped my lips as I pointed one finger at the screen. I felt warmth coming back into my limbs as that frozen feeling slowly left me.
“He’s here…. Shouldn’t be here… why.”
I mumbled to myself as Frank helped me into the back of the SUV twenty minutes later. I was still nearly catatonic as we headed back into town.
“So… that was him, the one you were running from when we found you.”
Stein said, breaking the silence that had fallen. I could talk normally again but I still only managed a quick “yes”.
“You know you don’t have to come with us, I’d understand.”
Frank said, snapping me to attention again.
“NO! I’ve got to help Keith, I don’t care if… if Brooke’s up there too.”
I tripped over my words just mentioning his name.
“I can do it, I can do this Frank, please.”
I begged, taking deep breaths to try and calm myself down. We pulled into the driveway before Frank said anything back. As we were all getting out he muttered something under his breath. He didn’t mean for me to hear him but I did.
“I’m not sure you can girl.”
I went straight up to my room after that, I didn’t want to be around anyone. All I caught before I left Frank, Stein, and Tuck before running up the stairs was the hard look Stein shot both of them. A look that said “We need to talk” and told me that he finally had a real plan. I spent the rest of that night thinking about the past and what I’d been through. Could I go out to that mine and rescue Keith if I had to face Brooke again? The last time I’d seen him had been as I leapt out of a moving car as my eyes turned to meet his one last time, rolling down that hill to freedom. I’d never seen him since and it was rare for him to even cross my mind. I wanted to go with the rest of them but despite what I said I really wasn’t sure I could do this anymore. Eventually I just decided only time would tell, hopefully Stein’s plan was a good one and we could put this whole thing behind us.
“Ey! Ey Keith!”
Someone yelled out as I came back from my little hike around the edge of the forest. My eyes darted around behind me before they finally focused on a rustling bush. Rocco jumped out of it holding a cigar in his mouth.
“That Brooke asshole hasn’t gone anywhere, I found him out by that trail the trucks drove in on with this.”
He said, tossing the cigar up in the air where it twirled around before he caught it in his mouth again.
“I figured I should frisk him just in case. I took a bite of his pants and stole this little number out of his coat pocket.”
He continued, shaking a silver lighter with a gold inlayed image of a lion in his paw.
“Oh and the cigar, I took that too. Cuban so the guy’s got taste, still a prick. Anyways, it looked like someone got to him before me. The guy was pretty beaten up, had some nasty bruises.”
I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I was just trying to picture Brooke getting mugged by a raccoon In my head and I burst out laughing. Rocco walked back to the camp in toe with me, only stopping to look up at some weird buzzing sound we both heard above us. Probably some rickety old plane or something way up there. I think I was finally starting to get why Frank and Stein had kept Rocco around. He may be a furry criminal mastermind but when he was motivated he could actually be really helpful. I never would’ve been able to keep any sort of tabs on Brooke without his help.
We made our way back to the long tent that still had remnants of lunch sitting on the table. Usually I would’ve tried to hide Rocco but at this point I figured he deserved the free food. Plus I just didn’t want to argue with him after getting my shit rocked most of the morning. Someone walked up behind me and I heard Shaoni’s voice, of course she was creeping up behind me again.
“Your feeling alright after today I hope?”
She asked me, taking a seat next to me.
“I’ll be alright, I’m sure I’ll have a killer headache in the morning but I’ll manage.”
“Good, good. We’ll be gathering in a few hours so I can announce the final trial. I expect you out by the entrance to the mine by 6.”
“What’s the matter? No cryptic questions this time Shaoni?”
I asked, paying no mind to what was sitting next to me.
“What do you mean?”
“I mean, you always stop by to check in after these trials. You don’t have any questions this time?”
“No, Katrina was the victor today, there is no question about that, the woman is… brutal. I just wanted to make sure she didn’t hit you to hard, you were unconscious for some time.”
She answered, some genuine concern slipping into her voice again.
“Heh careful, I might start to think you actually care.”
I joked, less nervous than I should’ve been.
“I’ll see you tonight with the rest for the announcement.”
She said with a deep sigh, standing up and walking off toward where ever she came from.
I took a nap and just barely managed to wake up in time for this “meeting” Shaoni had planned. I couldn’t find Rocco before I left but I wasn’t all that concerned about that anymore. When I got to the entrance a massive bonfire was lit and Shaoni stood alone in front of it. Robert and John were already there and Katrina showed up a little after me. Brooke hadn’t arrived before Shaoni started her speech.
“I thank all of you for coming here tonight. Regrettably one of you is missing but I won’t be waylaid by his absence.”
She spoke with clear annoyance in her voice.
“Tomorrow marks your final trial, the most important of the three. The trial of justice. Tomorrow there will be a murder in Eagles Peak. I want you all to work together to stop it. Then, succeed or fail, pass judgment on those involved in the murder. Afterwards I will select which among you will receive my gift. But for tonight, talk amongst yourselves, plan, and rest. Prepare yourselves for tomorrow, I will have my eye on each of you.”
With that Shaoni stepped away from the fire and into the night. Not accepting any questions about anything she had said.
“What do you think she has planned?”
Robert asked me as I took a seat by the bonfire to think over everything Shaoni had said.
“I don’t know, a murder apparently. Shouldn’t you know more about it? You’re one of her followers after all.”
I said as I turned my head to see John walking off into the night. That man was weird, really weird. I knew next to nothing about him and he seemed to never speak.
“Usually sure, but she hasn’t said anything to us about this. It’s why she hasn’t directly overseen all the trials, she’s set this last one up all on her own. I guess there’s nothing to do but wait, we’re all in this together for the first part of the trial I guess.”
Robert explained, leaning back and sprawling out on the ground. He was right, there wasn’t much we could do until we were in the middle of it.
I looked around, searching for Katrina in the firelight. I found her leaning against the rocky wall that made up the entrance of the mine. I stood up, leaving Robert to relax and made my way over.
“How’s the head?”
She asked, feigning taking a swing at me again with an evil grin on her face.
“I told you to take a dive.”
“Yeah, I should’ve listened.”
I admitted, rubbing the goose egg that had formed on my head over the course of my nap.
“So what do you thin about this last trial?”
“Well, I can say that If that Brooke guy tries flirting with me one more time the murder won’t be that hard to solve. Seriously though, I think she’s gone off the deep end. How does she know there’s going to be a murder?”
Katrina made a really good point, how was Shaoni so sure?
“That’s… hmmmm, you’re right.”
“Well I’m gonna head to bed then. Something tells me tomorrow is gonna be a headache. Just try to stay out of my way when we’re all forced to work together and you should be fine. All goes well and maybe we’ll be out of here tomorrow, I know I will.”
Katrina said as she pushed herself off the rock wall she’d been leaning against. Something about the way she said that last part, it made me think she was up to something. Like she was leaving no matter what or she had some sort of exit strategy.
As I left Robert relaxing by the fire and hiked back to my own tepee for the night I spied Katrina. She had climbed up a tree and had her legs wrapped around the trunk and one of her arms gripped a branch above her. There was some kind of box in her other hand, a radio maybe. I had no idea what she was saying, she was too far off, but it had to mean something. As far as I knew none of us had any contact with the outside world since we got here. My gut feeling was that she wasn’t meant to be doing that. I wasn’t going to bother her at this point though so I went my own way and settled down for the night.
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The next day went by in a blur. Rocco was walking the perimeter of the camp, keeping an eye out for Brooke when I woke up. I didn’t really think he’d leave, but it seemed to give Rocco something to do other than being a general menace to society. All of us ate breakfast as normal but no one really said much. I’m not sure if they were still reeling from things they saw yesterday or if they just weren’t in a talking mood. The thought occurred to me that Shaoni may have payed a visit to each of them as well. Prying into what they saw and answering questions they might have. Honestly the whole thing felt like we were guinea pigs. Shaoni didn’t really seem to have a great handle on the trials so far. It was… mildly concerning that the ringmaster of all this didn’t seem 100% in control anymore.
Actually, I’d thought about that a lot last night. Shaoni just sort of left us to our own devices when we went through those “visions” yesterday. It’s not like she backed up her claim that she’d know what we’d seen either. If anything the fact that she came to ask me about it made me even more suspicious that she wasn’t really sure what she was doing. It was the first time I’d ever thought of Shaoni as anything other than in complete control. Slowly but surely it was becoming glaringly obvious that wasn’t the case.
If I was remembering correctly today’s trial was the trial of strength. I sincerely hoped that was a metaphor for something. You’ve got to understand, I’m not a very strong person, not physically anyways. I hoped Shaoni wanted to test mental strength or strength of will something like that. My hopes shattered as we arrived at the coliseum and saw an arena set up. There were several dummies in a corner, the kind you would see used in martial arts or HEMA or something to that effect. At the foot of the dummies were several wooden clubs. I couldn’t see them to clearly but they almost looked clawed from a distance. The real centerpiece was the platform in the middle of the coliseum. It looked like a stage and I’m sure that’s exactly how we were going to use it. The raised wooden platform had been constructed with boards placed across the top. It looked like those boards could be removed and under that was simply the cold hard ground about two feet below.
Katrina’s eyes lit up as she looked over the room.
“Now this is what I’m talking about, a real trial!”
She just about shrieked in excitement, throwing one fist in the air and startling the rest of us to attention. Katrina was the only one that really seemed excited about this. John and Robert just looked accepting and I’m not sure Brooke had put two and two together yet. I’d seen the clubs laid out by the dummies and already figured we’d be sparing with each other.
“Good morning everyone, I hope your ready for today.”
Called Shaoni, emerging unseen from behind us. Anyone who wasn’t fully awake at that point sure was then. There’s just something about Shaoni that makes you really really not want her to show up behind you unannounced. Probably why she kept doing it to us.
“Today I will test your strength, while I’d rather avoid conflict it’s sometimes unavoidable. My ideal candidate not only knows themselves but can handle themselves as well. We will allow you some time to familiarize yourself with the war clubs you’ll be using. Then you will compete against each other to find the strongest, most skilled warrior among you.”
Shaoni explained, Katrina’ excitement growing with every word.
I wasn’t to keen to participate in any of this but, like usual, I didn’t really have much of a choice at this point.
“So will you be sticking around this time then?”
I asked, wondering if Shaoni was going to cut and run again.
“I have other matters to attend to today. While I would like to stay and observe the whole day I need to prepare things for the final trial tomorrow. I’ll be back in time to see you test each other though.”
She replied dismissively, already on her way out. Shaoni seemed almost uninterested in us now. For someone evaluating us she seemed awful happy to pass off the evaluation to her followers. I didn’t say anything else as she walked out of the coliseum and towards the exit.
As I walked over to the little training area I saw the clubs were actually ornate masterpieces. They were carved from a hard dark wood. The handles resembled an eagles talon, curving near the end to grip a wooden orb. Whoever made these was beyond skilled, these things were works of art. I didn’t have much time to admire them before Katrina interrupted me.
“Hey, Keith was it? Want me to show you how to use these things?”
She called over to me, it was more of a command than a question but that’s pretty par for the course with her.
“If you want, sure. I’m uh… I’m kinda a fish out of water with this find of thing.”
I told her, rubbing the back of my neck with one hand in embarrassment. I wasn’t sure why she was singling me out for that but she answered that question for me.
“Good, Those two creep me out and that one has been drooling over me since we got here.”
She said, pointing over at Robert and John who had already started practicing, then at Brooke. Katrina showed absolutely no subtly in any of this, earning us looks from all three of the others.
I was a little afraid of Katrina teaching me anything, if someone was gonna kill me by accident it would be her. That and she still had that gun on her. Despite my misgivings she was actually a pretty good teacher. She was a bit like a drill instructor but I learned a thing or two. By the time we were done I felt like I might stand half a chance in this trial.
“Just remember your footwork, keep your balance and the rest should come natural. Oh, and if we get paired up, take a dive, it’ll be less painful.”
Katrina added with a smirk, walking over towards the group by the stage in the center of the room. Shaoni had just come back in and was up on the balcony. A few of her followers had collected us and informed us we were about to start the, ”practical part”, as they put it.
“There’s five of you so for the first matchup one of my own will serve as the opponent. Anyone what to go first?”
Shaoni asked us, looking down with a raised eyebrow and waiting for a response. Before I realized what I’d done my hand was in the air, my body subconsciously wanting to get this over with as fast as possible. Shaoni actually looked surprised as she gestured for me to take my place on the stage. Two of the boards had been removed on either side leaving us something like six feet of space to work with before falling off the platform. But I was far less concerned about that after I saw the guy walking over. It was the driver from a few days ago when Shaoni had me brought out to the camp. The guy that had his friend stabbed by Bianca, he didn’t look like he’d forgotten about that as they gave him his club.
As I took my place on the stage the only thing I was thinking was exactly how bad it hurt when you got hit with one of these things.
“Begin when you are ready.”
Called Shaoni from her place on the balcony. The guy across from me took absolutely no time to think, charging at me wildly right away. I tried to brace myself and remember Katrina’s training, taking an even stance and angling my club for the coming blow. I did manage to block his strike but the force of it threw me to the ground. My mind went into full survival mode as he swung down at me. He was way less fluid than Katrina had been when she was showing me the ropes. He just seemed like he wanted to hurt me by any means necessary. As I rolled from side to side avoiding his blows I waited for an opening. He took a particularly hard swing at my head and I rolled at the last possible second. He lost his balance, giving me a chance to slip between his legs and get back to my feet. I stood back up narrowly avoiding a swing for my head as my opponent regained his balance and swung back at me. His wide hate fueled swing carried his whole body around with it and gave me another opening. I planted my feet and took one hard swing at the man’s turned shoulder hitting him right on the bone with a sickening crack. He stumbled around towards the edge, turning his back to me. I took one final swing, hoisting the club above my head and bringing it down in between his shoulder blades with a hollow thud. The blow sent him tumbling forward over the edge and off the stage, falling to the floor below.
Katrina shot me a quick thumbs up as I walked off the stage while Shaoni looked down at me and gave me an approving nod. No one else seemed to pay me any mind as I rejoined the group. I felt empowered, I hadn’t expected to get even that far, maybe there was a chance for me in this trial after all. Robert and John fought next and despite their age they each held their own. In the end John forced Robert off the edge, his age and weight throwing off his balance. I was still impressed either of them could move like they had, I guess I shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Then Katrina fought Brooke in the last… round I guess I’d call it. The smile on her face was unsettling from the moment she realized she’d be paired up with him, like a shark smelling blood in the water. You could just tell that she was going to take pleasure in what happened next.
That smile was still on her face as she walked up onto the stage and took her place across from Brooke.
“I hope you like it rough baby, cause I’m not going easy on you!”
Brooke called to her from the other side of the stage making a point to puff out his chest and flex his muscles. That set her off like a bomb, the smile disappeared and she exploded towards Brooke. I saw the exact moment that false confidence left his eyes and he actually turned to run, he was far to late and way to slow. Her first strike went low, shooting out in front of Brooke and coming back to catch his knee sending him tripping forward. He tried to regain his balance but she had no intention of letting him. Katrina swung out in front of him again, this time catching his neck with the club on its way back. That sent him flat onto his back, the club falling form his hand and rolling off the edge of the stage was the only sound in the whole coliseum. All eyes focused on Katrina as she took a breath then delivered a kick to Brooke’s ribs so hard that he went rolling off the edge, following his club. I returned her thumbs up she had given me as she rejoined the group.
Next, those of us who remained got matched up with each other. Shaoni wanted to use another one of her followers to stand in but Katrina insisted on just going twice. That meant I’d fight her and then the winner would fight John to see who the victor of the day was. As I stood across from Katrina I considered taking her advice from before, “…Just take a dive…” she had said. I thought about it, I really did, but I’d done so well earlier right? Why stop now? While I’d been thinking Katrina had walked up to me and started to swing. I had just enough time to realize my mistake before she cracked me across the head so hard she knocked me out.
I came to an hour later, alone on an animal skin cot. I was still in the coliseum but everyone else had left apparently. The only thing I saw when I got up from the ground was the torchlight illuminating the passage that lead back outside. That and the note scribbled on a scrap of a sticky note taped to my fore head.
“I told you to take a dive.”
Well at least she might feel bad about knocking me out. I figured we must be done for the day given how dead the camp seemed when I emerged back into the light. With nothing better to do, I walked off towards the forest to clear my head. I wondered what Bianca had been up to since I’d been gone as I aimlessly wandered around the forest’s edge.
“No that wouldn’t work! We don’t know what’s up there and we are not just waltzing in through the front gates!”
Stein yelled at me as I went over my most recent idea for breaking Keith out of whatever trials were going on out by the old mine. It had been two days since I watched him get kidnapped in front of me and I was getting drastic, aaaannd maybe a little dramatic.
“But I could do it guys! Remember back at the reservation? Those guys were willing to do anything for me and there can’t be that many guards in one place. Maybe I just convince a small group to lead us in and make an excuse for us.”
“For the last time Bianca, They’re just about cultists far as I can tell. You ain’t gonna be able to fight the kinda conviction they have to that bird, even if ya could its to much of a risk.”
Tuck protested from his seat at the kitchen table.
The kitchen table had become our war room over the past few days. A map of Eagles Peak Frank had made lay across it with dozens of pins stuck in around where the old mine would be.
“I don’t think an approach from the front is a good idea at all. You and Keith got to the mine through the forest once. Could we follow that path, approach without anyone knowing we were there?”
Stein theorized as he paced back and forth at the head of the table.
“Well, we really just wandered around for a bit and ended up there. We didn’t find the mine either, it was a hole that lead down to an old cavern near the mine. They turned out to be connected but that was just dumb luck.”
I explained to the group. Tuck looked like that had given him an idea.
“So you two got some backdoor entrance figured out that you’re only just tellin’ me about? That could be perfect! The four of us could make our way out and drop through that hole, take em all by surprise!”
Tuck exclaimed, leaping to his feet. His enthusiasm was nice but it wasn’t going to be that easy.
“We… kinda made a bit of a scene when we were there, they might be watching for something like that to happen again.”
“True, but it’s the best entrance strategy I’ve heard so far, I think following up on it is worth a try.”
Frank added with a nod. Stein then started pacing up and down the length of the table for a bit. He was coming up with something, that much was obvious.
“So we’ll enter through this hole leading into a cave connected to the old mine. From what you told us about your time there its some sort of staging area for these trials, at least that’s my best guess. Odds are there won’t be many people there overnight so we make our way out there during the night. From there we move through the cave and into the mine but after that we know nothing about what we’re running into.”
Stein lectured to his audience.
“But I think we have a solution for that. Frank do we still have that drone?”
An hour later the four of us were gathered at the edge of town on that path Keith and I had taken into the forest. The trees growing together forming a sort of arch over our head’s were unsettling but I couldn’t decide why. It just didn’t sit well with me, it looked unnatural I guess and that just gave me the creeps. I get that’s rich coming from a literal succubus but its how I felt.
“Alright, just watch the trees as you take it up, I don’t want a repeat of Missouri.”
Stein instructed Frank as he got the drone in the air.
“You’re never going to let me live that down are you?”
Frank chuckled, shaking his head.
“It was the first time we used this thing, there was bound to be a few unexpected variables.”
“If you call “unexpected variables” an itchy finger on the throttle. We had to have Rocco untangle it from the branches.”
Stein joked as he checked to make sure the drones camera was feeding back into the app on his phone.
I hadn’t seen them like this, being friendly with each other. There was never a time where they hated each other or anything like that but they’d been so… business like with for a long time now. It was nice to see them act like real people again. Leaning over Stein’s shoulder I got a birds eye view from the drone.
“ Just go East, its what we did. Just walked East till we stumbled into everything.”
Frank followed my advice and flew the drone due East. Eventually a campsite came into view, there were a bunch of tepees and a bunch of people just walking around.
“What, they just look normal?!”
I blurted out, a little louder and a bit more distressed than I meant to.
“How’re they supposed ta look then?”
Tuck asked
“They’re just people like you n’ me. Nothin to special about em other than the fact they worship some big ass bird.”
He continued with mild annoyance.
“I don’t know, I guess I expected these creepy guys in tarps, like from Keith’s story. These are just… well they’re just people!”
I responded, Throwing my arms out to my sides in exasperation. Tuck was right, I shouldn’t have expected everything to be just as Keith had said. Still, something just didn’t fit together for me about that whole thing. What had the deal been with those people in Imalone then? I shook my head, clearing the question from my mind, it wasn’t important now.
“There! That’s the entrance to the old mine.”
Tuck told Stein as he looked at screen. I looked over myself and felt my entire being freeze. It was Brooke, walking out from the entrance with some bitchy looking girl and two older guys that I’d seen around town before. How could he be here? After all this time why, why was he anywhere near me?
My vision swam, when it came back Frank was standing in front of me. His mouth was moving but I couldn’t hear anything.
“…anca! Are you ok, what’s going on? Bianca!”
I finally heard over the sudden ringing in my ears.
“Him.”
Was the only thing the escaped my lips as I pointed one finger at the screen. I felt warmth coming back into my limbs as that frozen feeling slowly left me.
“He’s here…. Shouldn’t be here… why.”
I mumbled to myself as Frank helped me into the back of the SUV twenty minutes later. I was still nearly catatonic as we headed back into town.
“So… that was him, the one you were running from when we found you.”
Stein said, breaking the silence that had fallen. I could talk normally again but I still only managed a quick “yes”.
“You know you don’t have to come with us, I’d understand.”
Frank said, snapping me to attention again.
“NO! I’ve got to help Keith, I don’t care if… if Brooke’s up there too.”
I tripped over my words just mentioning his name.
“I can do it, I can do this Frank, please.”
I begged, taking deep breaths to try and calm myself down. We pulled into the driveway before Frank said anything back. As we were all getting out he muttered something under his breath. He didn’t mean for me to hear him but I did.
“I’m not sure you can girl.”
I went straight up to my room after that, I didn’t want to be around anyone. All I caught before I left Frank, Stein, and Tuck before running up the stairs was the hard look Stein shot both of them. A look that said “We need to talk” and told me that he finally had a real plan. I spent the rest of that night thinking about the past and what I’d been through. Could I go out to that mine and rescue Keith if I had to face Brooke again? The last time I’d seen him had been as I leapt out of a moving car as my eyes turned to meet his one last time, rolling down that hill to freedom. I’d never seen him since and it was rare for him to even cross my mind. I wanted to go with the rest of them but despite what I said I really wasn’t sure I could do this anymore. Eventually I just decided only time would tell, hopefully Stein’s plan was a good one and we could put this whole thing behind us.
“Ey! Ey Keith!”
Someone yelled out as I came back from my little hike around the edge of the forest. My eyes darted around behind me before they finally focused on a rustling bush. Rocco jumped out of it holding a cigar in his mouth.
“That Brooke asshole hasn’t gone anywhere, I found him out by that trail the trucks drove in on with this.”
He said, tossing the cigar up in the air where it twirled around before he caught it in his mouth again.
“I figured I should frisk him just in case. I took a bite of his pants and stole this little number out of his coat pocket.”
He continued, shaking a silver lighter with a gold inlayed image of a lion in his paw.
“Oh and the cigar, I took that too. Cuban so the guy’s got taste, still a prick. Anyways, it looked like someone got to him before me. The guy was pretty beaten up, had some nasty bruises.”
I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I was just trying to picture Brooke getting mugged by a raccoon In my head and I burst out laughing. Rocco walked back to the camp in toe with me, only stopping to look up at some weird buzzing sound we both heard above us. Probably some rickety old plane or something way up there. I think I was finally starting to get why Frank and Stein had kept Rocco around. He may be a furry criminal mastermind but when he was motivated he could actually be really helpful. I never would’ve been able to keep any sort of tabs on Brooke without his help.
We made our way back to the long tent that still had remnants of lunch sitting on the table. Usually I would’ve tried to hide Rocco but at this point I figured he deserved the free food. Plus I just didn’t want to argue with him after getting my shit rocked most of the morning. Someone walked up behind me and I heard Shaoni’s voice, of course she was creeping up behind me again.
“Your feeling alright after today I hope?”
She asked me, taking a seat next to me.
“I’ll be alright, I’m sure I’ll have a killer headache in the morning but I’ll manage.”
“Good, good. We’ll be gathering in a few hours so I can announce the final trial. I expect you out by the entrance to the mine by 6.”
“What’s the matter? No cryptic questions this time Shaoni?”
I asked, paying no mind to what was sitting next to me.
“What do you mean?”
“I mean, you always stop by to check in after these trials. You don’t have any questions this time?”
“No, Katrina was the victor today, there is no question about that, the woman is… brutal. I just wanted to make sure she didn’t hit you to hard, you were unconscious for some time.”
She answered, some genuine concern slipping into her voice again.
“Heh careful, I might start to think you actually care.”
I joked, less nervous than I should’ve been.
“I’ll see you tonight with the rest for the announcement.”
She said with a deep sigh, standing up and walking off toward where ever she came from.
I took a nap and just barely managed to wake up in time for this “meeting” Shaoni had planned. I couldn’t find Rocco before I left but I wasn’t all that concerned about that anymore. When I got to the entrance a massive bonfire was lit and Shaoni stood alone in front of it. Robert and John were already there and Katrina showed up a little after me. Brooke hadn’t arrived before Shaoni started her speech.
“I thank all of you for coming here tonight. Regrettably one of you is missing but I won’t be waylaid by his absence.”
She spoke with clear annoyance in her voice.
“Tomorrow marks your final trial, the most important of the three. The trial of justice. Tomorrow there will be a murder in Eagles Peak. I want you all to work together to stop it. Then, succeed or fail, pass judgment on those involved in the murder. Afterwards I will select which among you will receive my gift. But for tonight, talk amongst yourselves, plan, and rest. Prepare yourselves for tomorrow, I will have my eye on each of you.”
With that Shaoni stepped away from the fire and into the night. Not accepting any questions about anything she had said.
“What do you think she has planned?”
Robert asked me as I took a seat by the bonfire to think over everything Shaoni had said.
“I don’t know, a murder apparently. Shouldn’t you know more about it? You’re one of her followers after all.”
I said as I turned my head to see John walking off into the night. That man was weird, really weird. I knew next to nothing about him and he seemed to never speak.
“Usually sure, but she hasn’t said anything to us about this. It’s why she hasn’t directly overseen all the trials, she’s set this last one up all on her own. I guess there’s nothing to do but wait, we’re all in this together for the first part of the trial I guess.”
Robert explained, leaning back and sprawling out on the ground. He was right, there wasn’t much we could do until we were in the middle of it.
I looked around, searching for Katrina in the firelight. I found her leaning against the rocky wall that made up the entrance of the mine. I stood up, leaving Robert to relax and made my way over.
“How’s the head?”
She asked, feigning taking a swing at me again with an evil grin on her face.
“I told you to take a dive.”
“Yeah, I should’ve listened.”
I admitted, rubbing the goose egg that had formed on my head over the course of my nap.
“So what do you thin about this last trial?”
“Well, I can say that If that Brooke guy tries flirting with me one more time the murder won’t be that hard to solve. Seriously though, I think she’s gone off the deep end. How does she know there’s going to be a murder?”
Katrina made a really good point, how was Shaoni so sure?
“That’s… hmmmm, you’re right.”
“Well I’m gonna head to bed then. Something tells me tomorrow is gonna be a headache. Just try to stay out of my way when we’re all forced to work together and you should be fine. All goes well and maybe we’ll be out of here tomorrow, I know I will.”
Katrina said as she pushed herself off the rock wall she’d been leaning against. Something about the way she said that last part, it made me think she was up to something. Like she was leaving no matter what or she had some sort of exit strategy.
As I left Robert relaxing by the fire and hiked back to my own tepee for the night I spied Katrina. She had climbed up a tree and had her legs wrapped around the trunk and one of her arms gripped a branch above her. There was some kind of box in her other hand, a radio maybe. I had no idea what she was saying, she was too far off, but it had to mean something. As far as I knew none of us had any contact with the outside world since we got here. My gut feeling was that she wasn’t meant to be doing that. I wasn’t going to bother her at this point though so I went my own way and settled down for the night.
2024.05.21 06:27 floralgarag Flowers For Graduation Gift
 | IntroductionGraduation is one of life's most significant milestones, marking the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and personal growth. It’s a momentous occasion that deserves to be celebrated with a gift as special and meaningful as the achievement itself. And what could be more fitting than flowers? Flowers have long been a symbol of celebration and accomplishment, making them the perfect gift for graduates.https://preview.redd.it/5b6fnqzuip1d1.png?width=1200&format=png&auto=webp&s=caf04d32213d55b4d9c6285d5ecd846ebfc0ed3f Choosing the Right Flowers for GraduationWhen it comes to selecting the perfect flowers for a graduation gift, there are traditional choices that have stood the test of time, as well as modern and trendy options that add a fresh twist to the occasion.Popular Graduation Flowers and Their MeaningsRoses: Love and AdmirationRoses are a classic choice for many celebratory events, including graduations. Red roses symbolize love and admiration, while other colors like yellow and pink can represent joy and friendship.Lilies: Prosperity and CommitmentLilies are often associated with prosperity and commitment, making them an excellent choice for graduates embarking on a new journey.Orchids: Beauty and StrengthOrchids symbolize beauty, strength, and sophistication. They are perfect for graduates who have shown remarkable resilience and grace throughout their academic journey.Color Meanings in Graduation BouquetsThe color of the flowers you choose can convey specific emotions and messages. Here are some popular colors and their meanings:Red: Passion and EnergyRed flowers exude passion, energy, and excitement—perfect for celebrating the vibrant future ahead.Yellow: Joy and FriendshipYellow flowers symbolize joy, friendship, and new beginnings, making them ideal for a graduate starting a new chapter in life.White: Purity and New BeginningsWhite flowers represent purity, innocence, and new beginnings. They are a great choice for celebrating the fresh start that comes with graduation.Personalizing Your Graduation BouquetTo make your graduation bouquet even more special, consider adding personal touches. Incorporating the graduate’s favorite flowers or school colors can add a unique and sentimental value to the gift.DIY Graduation BouquetsCreating your bouquet can be a heartfelt gesture. Here are some simple DIY bouquet ideas:
Flower Arrangement Styles for GraduationDifferent arrangement styles can add a special touch to your floral gift:Classic Hand-Tied BouquetsA classic hand-tied bouquet is timeless and elegant, perfect for any graduation ceremony.Elegant Cascading ArrangementsCascading arrangements add a touch of drama and sophistication, making them ideal for a standout gift.Unique Floral Gifts for GraduationFlowers don’t have to be limited to bouquets. Here are some unique floral gift ideas:Flower Crowns and LeisFlower crowns and leis are not only beautiful but also have cultural significance in many traditions. They make a unique and meaningful gift.Potted Plants and SucculentsPotted plants and succulents are great for graduates who love nature and want a long-lasting reminder of their achievements.Presentation Tips for Graduation FlowersThe way you present your flowers can make a big difference. Here are some tips:How to Wrap and Present Your BouquetUse decorative paper or a stylish box to wrap your bouquet. Add a ribbon and a heartfelt note for an extra touch.Creative Packaging IdeasConsider using unique packaging like vintage tins, decorative baskets, or even reusable tote bags to present your flowers.Caring for Graduation FlowersTo ensure your flowers last as long as possible, here are some care tips:Tips for Keeping Flowers FreshKeep the flowers in a cool place, change the water regularly, and trim the stems every few days to extend their freshness.Proper Flower Care TechniquesUse flower food in the water and avoid placing the flowers in direct sunlight or near heat sources.Where to Buy Graduation FlowersYou have several options when it comes to purchasing graduation flowers:Local FloristsSupporting local florists not only ensures fresh flowers but also helps local businesses thrive.Online Flower Delivery ServicesOnline services offer convenience and a wide variety of options, making them ideal for last-minute gifts. One of the top choices for online florists is Floral Garage Singapore, which boasts a diverse selection of flower collections and offers free delivery services.Budget-Friendly Graduation FlowersCelebrating on a budget? Here are some affordable flower options:Affordable Flower OptionsLook for seasonal flowers, which are often less expensive, or opt for smaller bouquets that are equally beautiful.Making the Most of Your BudgetConsider combining flowers with other small gifts like chocolates or balloons to create a more substantial gift without overspending.Sending Graduation Flowers to Loved OnesIf you can’t be there in person, sending flowers is a great way to show your support:Long-Distance Flower DeliveryMany florists offer delivery services that can send flowers across the country or even internationally.Ensuring Timely DeliveryOrder in advance and confirm delivery dates to ensure your flowers arrive on time for the graduation ceremony.Creative Ways to Incorporate Flowers in Graduation CelebrationsFlowers can also play a big role in the celebration itself:Decorating Graduation Parties with FlowersUse flowers to create centerpieces, decorate the venue, and add a festive touch to the party.Using Flowers in Graduation Photo ShootsFlowers can make graduation photos even more memorable. Consider incorporating them into the background or as props.ConclusionFlowers are a timeless and meaningful gift for graduates. They symbolize celebration, accomplishment, and new beginnings. Whether you choose a traditional bouquet or a unique floral arrangement, the thought and care you put into selecting the perfect flowers will surely be appreciated. So, next time you’re celebrating a graduation, remember to say it with flowers.FAQsWhat are the best flowers to give for a graduation?Roses, lilies, and orchids are popular choices, each carrying a special meaning suitable for the occasion.How can I personalize a graduation bouquet?Incorporate the graduate's favorite flowers, and school colors, or add a personal note to make it unique.What do different flower colors symbolize?Red represents passion, yellow symbolizes joy, and white signifies new beginnings.Can I create my graduation bouquet?Absolutely! DIY bouquets are a heartfelt way to add a personal touch to your gift.Where can I buy graduation flowers?You can purchase flowers from local florists or use online flower delivery services for convenience. |
2024.05.18 21:18 ApprehensiveCap6525 Earth is a Lost Colony (28)
A/N: yeah I changed up the Alliance admiral's name from Shepard Adama to Sheparda Dama (so creative i know) because the old one was going to fuck me over badly at some point. It would be like trying to make a legitimate, serious fantasy novel with a wizard named Albus Gandalf. I was NOT cooking when I came up with that shit.
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It was said that no plan ever survived contact with the enemy. That, at least in the case of Marcus Wayne’s infiltration of Neldia, was proven entirely true.
His ship, the Peacemaker, had undergone an extensive refit before its jump to Neldia to both modify its sensor signature and repair its failing Aegis barrier. The first objective succeeded. The second did not.
One day later, leaving the derelict Ultimate Vigil behind in deep space, the United Human Alliance courier ship Winged Deliverance logged a real space entry at the edge of the Neldia system. Its crew, having spent their waking hours plagued by hallucinations and enduring horrible nightmares as they slept, found this shift very welcome. The worst, though they could hardly believe it, was still yet to come.
“The Neldian fleet is mustering for war,” rumbled the man who had once held the title and security codes of an Alliance sector admiral. Now, he was a traitor to his homeland. “Security will be high.”
“No need to worry, Admiral,” said Marcus Wayne. “Your code will get us through.” It would not.
It took two hours for the Peacemaker, disguised as the Winged Deliverance, to be challenged by the Neldian Armada. “Transmit clearance code,” said an automated voice. Marcus took out a data disc with the admiral's clearance code on it.
“Hold,” said Terris. She was clad in black, her active camouflage offline to save battery, and she had been sitting at the passive sensor console for the past three hours. “Look at this.” A news broadcast popped up in front of Marcus Wayne and his officers. Sector Admiral Sheparda Dama, or at least he was once a sector admiral, had been tried and convicted of high treason.
“It was a secret trial,” Dama said, still in shock at the revelation. “I had no knowledge of this.”
“Well, that tracks, but what do we do now? What code gets us through?”
“Transmit clearance code,” the voice said again, “or adjust course.”
Dama thought for a moment. “Change course,” he said. “We’re not getting through.”
They did. A great sense of defeat took hold in the hearts of the crew. They would never reach the Neldian hypercom. Sheparda Dama, who would have gladly given his life in defense of humankind, would never get the chance to be the man who broke their chains.
The Peacemaker was halfway out of the Neldia system before Terris spoke again. “Hold it,” she said. “I have an idea.”
That was why she had been placed where she was. Clad in an airtight stealth suit. Inside a hollowed-out asteroid. On a ballistic journey to the heart of Neldian space. It was the most insane idea that Marcus Wayne had ever seen.
But, sometimes, insanity was a symptom of genius.
Terris flew past the Neldian Armada undetected. Many asteroids entered the inner system this way, flung by outer-system prospecting ships to the foundries and shipyards in Neldian orbit, and they were thrown and caught so frequently that only the most cursory of inspections was put upon each one. Terris passed the Alliance fleet entirely undetected.
Terris’ chameleon suit could mimic the sensor return of the precious metals it was buried in, at least enough to fool a probing scan, and the cuts made by Protectoral engineers had been so precise that Terris had fit inside there with barely a centimeter of space to spare. She was effectively entombed inside sixty meters of solid rock.
Interstellar espionage was not a job for the claustrophobic.
Finally, after days of waiting, the signal came. She was in range. A mental command triggered a series of shaped charges in the rock above her, if such directions existed in microgravity, and forty pea-sized explosives blasted a circular tunnel all the way to the asteroid surface. If just one of them had failed, that rock might have been her tomb.
Terris tried not to think about that as she began climbing her way out. A brief burst from her suit’s EVA thrusters was enough to start her on her way, and the tunnel out was wide enough for her to use her arms and legs to speed things up. Finally, after too long a wait, Terris saw the Neldian sun for the very first time.
There was fire in the distance. Comm chatter on every band. Warships burning hard for the outer system. The Coalition fleet was here.
She zoomed in, far more than she had ever had to before, and she could pick out the faintest flashes of blue as warships exploded in the black. A brief crawl around the asteroid, which also helped to warm up her muscles after days of inactivity, let her discern an attack force engaging the Alliance fleet. After a moment’s hesitation, weighing the risks, Terris activated her passive sensor suite to try and decrypt Alliance military chatter.
Instantly, her sensors were flooded with noise from the defensive bastions. The fleet base at the L5 point was loudest, its comm operators screaming indecipherably at fellow Alliance elements fighting in the black. Neldian orbit, where the hypercom station was, seemed to be the centerpiece of all the communications traffic. The hypercom, unsurprisingly, was being used as a relay for comm traffic all across the system. Terris made a note to hack its server banks for intelligence, and perhaps leave a timed virus or two to shut down the system after she was gone.
Her suit bleeped, alerting her that she was in optimum position to make the leap to the hypercom. She zoomed in on it, a red and spiked thing just like everything else the Alliance made, and calculated the right trajectory to land right on its metal surface.
Trying to jump from a moving asteroid out past Neldia’s rings and hit a hypercom station barely three hundred meters in diameter was like shooting a rifle from a jumbo jet in hopes of hitting a mosquito down on Earth. A nearly impossible shot, even with Coalition computers to help make the jump, and anyone lucky enough to make it would have been better served bankrupting their local casino at the slot machines.
Terris gave a command to her suit, activating a set of ion thrusters to boost her off the asteroid and adjust her course mid-flight. She’d never believed in luck.
She coasted silent and graceful past the particle guns in high orbit, like a majestic swan flying on a summer wind. Their sensor arrays were directed out, past her, to the far distant parts of space where a trillion tons of steel were locked in deadly battle. Terris really did wish she could smile at the moment. She was about to have unrestricted access to the biggest communications relay in the star system, able to send out viruses and receive vital intelligence that could cripple the Alliance fleet if placed in the right hands. Terris, confident as ever, knew they would be.
They had no idea she was even coming.
She reached the hypercom station in just under a day, agonizingly slow for a woman like her, hovering just above its surface to avoid triggering pressure sensors. After that, it was simple enough to get inside. Terris found it almost trivial to bypass the airlock sensor grid and trigger the outer bulkhead to open unnoticed, its report to the command room destroyed before it ever arrived. Entering the station itself was easy after that.
Here, there was gravity. She could not hover like she had on the outside of the station. But here, there were no pressure sensors. She really had no need to hover.
The corridor she found herself in was large enough, though nothing like the expansive halls of a dreadnought, and a patrol of marines in powered suits trundled towards her obliviously. Terris had made the right call not to wear a Phantom powered suit. She ducked into an alcove, the chameleon suit concealing her from even their impressive sensor batteries, and they passed by with no clue at all.
Terris made it to the server banks with ease. Most of the hypercom’s security measures took the form of warships in orbit, clustered tightly around the planet to prevent exactly this scenario from happening, but those warships were off waging war. The station defenses were hopeless now that she was actually inside.
The data was encrypted, and she could neither access it nor copy it without potentially fatal consequences, but she wasn’t there to steal data. A brief, milliseconds-long connection to the primary server was all it took to riddle the entire system with custom-tailored computer viruses. The viruses were self-replicating, rather like an electronic version of the biological ones on Earth. They worked similarly, too, meant to latch onto outgoing communications signals and remain inert for a certain amount of time before activating and wreaking havoc across cyberspace.
The program would be scoured from the net in seconds once it began its assault, but it would cause plenty of chaos before then. And, with another critical transmission being scheduled to send at around that time, Terris knew her mostly-ineffective virus attack would be just enough of a distraction to make sure its message was heard.
Terris planned to leave the station in approximately thirty minutes. Shortly after that, the fireworks would begin. It was going to be beautiful.
She heard footsteps. A maintenance worker, no doubt. It was time for her to go. She disconnected from the server, taking pains to hide her involvement, and snuck out of the server room like a ghost in the night.
Next was the transmission array. This room was better-guarded, its door being flanked by marines, but Terris slipped inside by trailing behind an officer as he entered on some unknown pretext. After that, her daring and sleight of hand made sure Admiral Dama’s pre-recorded propaganda transmission was uploaded to the hypercom transmitter. It came with a set of instructions bearing the Admiralty’s seal, changed to be anonymous, to ensure as many people as possible heard his message.
In just under one standard hour, the United Human Alliance would be shaken to its very core. Terris had just made sure of it.
It took longer than she had expected for the door to open again and give her a chance to slip out. Terris had spent that time quite productively, downloading as many incoming and outgoing messages as she could to the internal hard drive just by her spinal cord. Even if they were encrypted, they’d be useful intelligence once Coalition codebreakers took a crack at them.
After that, it was trivial to slip past marine patrols and escape to the hull of the hypercom station. Terris found her ride, an Alliance warship by the name of Brightest Thunder, holding orbit just near the hypercom station. Admiral Dama, even if he was no longer an admiral, still had connections.
She charged her ion thrusters by tapping into the station reactor, an act which did not go unnoticed, but by then it was too late to respond. She had completed her incursion. The damage had been done. Perhaps if the Alliance acted swiftly and accurately, they could undo it, but Terris was a careful woman. She had covered her tracks well.
Waving one final goodbye to the crew of the hypercom station, Terris triggered her thrust pack and shot off into the ink.
“You must be my passenger.” A handsome man in an Alliance captain’s uniform was waiting for her in the Brightest Thunder’s airlock. He wore a helmet and gloves, hermetically sealed to his airtight outfit, so he felt no effects from the vacuum of space. “I was sent by Sector Admiral Sheparda Dama,” he announced after a period of silence, “To transport you and whatever you may have safely to the Coalition fleet.” Nothing. Apart from the dull thudding of the ship’s railgun batteries, firing missiles at range to ward off a strike force of Coalition ships, the airlock was quiet as a ghost.
“You cannot expect me to endanger my life and the lives of my crew without at least some identification that you are who you claim to be!” Silence. Captain Senar Trevy had been standing in that airlock for three and a half hours, while his ship was tasked with screening Neldia and her eighteen billion inhabitants from harm, and he was just now wondering if he had been talking to a ghost.
“I am,” came a voice. Cold. Sterile. Inhuman. Exactly the kind Trevy expected from the secret spies of his former admiral.
“So you are.” Captain Trevy thought for a moment. He cycled the airlock. If his guest held hostile intent, one steel bulkhead would make no difference. “I’ve been stocking the crew with handpicked men and women since I received word of the operation,” he explained as they walked through the ship’s corridors. The crewmen he passed thought him insane. “I can’t vouch for them all, but the ship as a whole will obey me.” No response. Sometimes, Captain Trevy thought himself insane as well.
“This is my personal quarters,” he told the specter, stepping inside and sealing the door behind him. “I must warn you, for your own safety, it would be best not to leave it. The crew are mostly still Alliance loyalists.” He looked around, paying no heed to the decorated furniture or artificial sky, and finally shrugged and sighed. “Are you even here, still?”
Terris decloaked. She stood between him and the door, winged and cloaked in black like a demon of ancient myth. “I am.”
“You’re a black angel.” Senar Trevy, to his credit, kept his composure well. “A spy for the Ierad Republic.” He questioned her purpose here. They both knew it.
“You weren’t told?”
“I was told an alien would be coming aboard, but…” Trevy shrugged again, as if to say ‘what am I supposed to do?’ “The admiral vouched for you. That much is enough for me.” He also knew he had no choice in the matter. From what he knew about black angels, his ship had been lost the moment she boarded.
“I could have impersonated him,” said Terris, voice a perfect replica of Captain Trevy’s own. Even his own mother could not have told the difference. “And I’m trained to lie.” She was testing him, gauging his reaction to assess his personality. She was good at that.
“I could have you screened for deception,” Trevy countered, pointing up at a pearl-sized camera in the ceiling. Terris made a note that it was disabled. “And I could have had the technology officers vet your transmission.”
“I’m trained to lie well.” Terris sat down on Captain Trevy’s bed, a spartan thing compared to the sleeping quarters of most officers. There were no chairs in the room, so her options were few. She took off her helmet and tried to at least appear relaxed. In reality, she was anything but. “It comes with the job, really.”
“Fair,” Trevy chuckled, feigning calm. “I suppose the question now becomes whether or not you can trust me.”
“It’s a safe gamble.” Terris made a mental calculation. It would take her between thirty and fifty seconds to kill Captain Trevy, take the bridge, and vent the ship. That was a very safe gamble. “Besides, that’s what a peace treaty is.” Trevy looked confused. “A leap of faith. You trust your enemy to back their word, and you trust them to trust you as well. If we can’t get along here, can’t put aside our differences to work toward a common goal, then the Alliance will be right. And I hate it when they’re right.”
“I’m speaking to you now because I know they are wrong.” That came as no surprise to either of them. “You know, I was once a foreman of a labor crew in the munitions factories. The most productive unit in my sector.” That one did come as a surprise. “As a foreman, you get leeway to make certain decisions regarding the… well, I suppose they are slaves, under your command. Food intake and the like.” Captain Trevy looked pained when he brought up such memories. Terris wasn’t convinced that was how he really felt. “They use it to weed out any potential xeno sympathizers from the populace. Of course, at the time, I wasn’t so empathetic.”
“So you were a slave driver, and you beat your slaves to make them work. I hope every one of those shells was sabotaged.” Terris’ voice dripped with disdain. She had almost forgotten the Alliance captain was her enemy.
“No, I showed mercy,” Trevy defended himself. “I was generous.” This made Terris reconsider. Perhaps Senar Trevy could be an ally, if not a friend. “I won’t say I was a good man, but I wasn’t cruel. I was practical. Strong, healthy, well-treated workers are more productive than the beaten sacks of flesh in the other factories. My crew’s output was unmatched.”
“And?” Terris cocked her head inquisitively. For a high-ranking officer in the space navy of a genocidal regime, Senar Trevy really did not seem so bad. To be fair, however, she had set the bar pretty low.
“I was investigated for anti-human activity.” Terris could have predicted that. She almost did, too. “They sent me to the fleet, and my labor crew was reacquainted with the energy whips and pain beams.” There was no carrot for an Alliance labor slave. Only the stick. “Their productivity fell thirty percent in the first two weeks alone.” He sounded almost mournful as he said that. He was not lamenting the loss in productivity.
“You see,” said Trevy, “Hatred is not natural. It has to be caused, sustained, nurtured from the day a man is born until the day he dies.” With that, at least, Terris agreed. “And, as you’re about to see, a nation built around cruelty or prejudice cannot sustain itself. It will have to apply pressure to maintain its flawed status quo, like it did with me, and the pressure will build and build until it cannot build anymore.” He tapped a few buttons on the data disc in his hand. It began projecting an image of the battle for Neldia. He placed it on the bed next to Terris. “Now it’s breaking.”
“I wonder if they’ll find themselves in need of more shells.” Terris knew it wasn’t just shells. Every time a slave driver prioritized hatred over hard work, put cruelty over their quota, or even just bowed their head and obeyed the traditional dogma, they hurt the Alliance. Across nine worlds, with billions of slaves not working as they could have, things started to add up. “You know, for a superior species, your fleet is really getting its ass kicked right now. Might want to work on that.”
Captain Trevy nodded. His data disc beeped. He was needed on the bridge. “Agreed,” he said. “I hope this war ends soon, and to our mutual benefit. I’d hate to face you on the battlefield.” He picked up the data disc and turned to leave.
“Oh, forgot to mention, there’s a virus embedded in the transmissions you’ve received. Self-replicating. Nasty piece of work.” Terris shifted a bit in her seat. “Almost forgot about that.”
“Well, better to know now than when it’s activated,” Trevy smiled. “I’ll have Technology Officer Galdir investigate it.” With that, he left. His duty to the Alliance was nonexistent, but the men and women under his command still needed him. He had waited too long in the stateroom.
Terris, with nothing better to do, got to work on cracking the encryption in the transmissions she had copied. She failed. A transmission from deep in unknown space, sent from a dreadnought at the head of a task force known only as the Deep Expedition Fleet, was the only message she could read. Its contents, while troubling, mattered little at the moment. What was far more crucial, however, was the message Terris could not decipher. The military battle plan of Janus Ora’s personal armada.
The battle plan that, when analyzed on a Republic starship, would reveal its terrible secret too late.
The Coalition fleet was walking into a trap.
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It was said that no plan ever survived contact with the enemy. That, at least in the case of Marcus Wayne’s infiltration of Neldia, was proven entirely true.
His ship, the Peacemaker, had undergone an extensive refit before its jump to Neldia to both modify its sensor signature and repair its failing Aegis barrier. The first objective succeeded. The second did not.
One day later, leaving the derelict Ultimate Vigil behind in deep space, the United Human Alliance courier ship Winged Deliverance logged a real space entry at the edge of the Neldia system. Its crew, having spent their waking hours plagued by hallucinations and enduring horrible nightmares as they slept, found this shift very welcome. The worst, though they could hardly believe it, was still yet to come.
“The Neldian fleet is mustering for war,” rumbled the man who had once held the title and security codes of an Alliance sector admiral. Now, he was a traitor to his homeland. “Security will be high.”
“No need to worry, Admiral,” said Marcus Wayne. “Your code will get us through.” It would not.
It took two hours for the Peacemaker, disguised as the Winged Deliverance, to be challenged by the Neldian Armada. “Transmit clearance code,” said an automated voice. Marcus took out a data disc with the admiral's clearance code on it.
“Hold,” said Terris. She was clad in black, her active camouflage offline to save battery, and she had been sitting at the passive sensor console for the past three hours. “Look at this.” A news broadcast popped up in front of Marcus Wayne and his officers. Sector Admiral Sheparda Dama, or at least he was once a sector admiral, had been tried and convicted of high treason.
“It was a secret trial,” Dama said, still in shock at the revelation. “I had no knowledge of this.”
“Well, that tracks, but what do we do now? What code gets us through?”
“Transmit clearance code,” the voice said again, “or adjust course.”
Dama thought for a moment. “Change course,” he said. “We’re not getting through.”
They did. A great sense of defeat took hold in the hearts of the crew. They would never reach the Neldian hypercom. Sheparda Dama, who would have gladly given his life in defense of humankind, would never get the chance to be the man who broke their chains.
The Peacemaker was halfway out of the Neldia system before Terris spoke again. “Hold it,” she said. “I have an idea.”
That was why she had been placed where she was. Clad in an airtight stealth suit. Inside a hollowed-out asteroid. On a ballistic journey to the heart of Neldian space. It was the most insane idea that Marcus Wayne had ever seen.
But, sometimes, insanity was a symptom of genius.
Terris flew past the Neldian Armada undetected. Many asteroids entered the inner system this way, flung by outer-system prospecting ships to the foundries and shipyards in Neldian orbit, and they were thrown and caught so frequently that only the most cursory of inspections was put upon each one. Terris passed the Alliance fleet entirely undetected.
Terris’ chameleon suit could mimic the sensor return of the precious metals it was buried in, at least enough to fool a probing scan, and the cuts made by Protectoral engineers had been so precise that Terris had fit inside there with barely a centimeter of space to spare. She was effectively entombed inside sixty meters of solid rock.
Interstellar espionage was not a job for the claustrophobic.
Finally, after days of waiting, the signal came. She was in range. A mental command triggered a series of shaped charges in the rock above her, if such directions existed in microgravity, and forty pea-sized explosives blasted a circular tunnel all the way to the asteroid surface. If just one of them had failed, that rock might have been her tomb.
Terris tried not to think about that as she began climbing her way out. A brief burst from her suit’s EVA thrusters was enough to start her on her way, and the tunnel out was wide enough for her to use her arms and legs to speed things up. Finally, after too long a wait, Terris saw the Neldian sun for the very first time.
There was fire in the distance. Comm chatter on every band. Warships burning hard for the outer system. The Coalition fleet was here.
She zoomed in, far more than she had ever had to before, and she could pick out the faintest flashes of blue as warships exploded in the black. A brief crawl around the asteroid, which also helped to warm up her muscles after days of inactivity, let her discern an attack force engaging the Alliance fleet. After a moment’s hesitation, weighing the risks, Terris activated her passive sensor suite to try and decrypt Alliance military chatter.
Instantly, her sensors were flooded with noise from the defensive bastions. The fleet base at the L5 point was loudest, its comm operators screaming indecipherably at fellow Alliance elements fighting in the black. Neldian orbit, where the hypercom station was, seemed to be the centerpiece of all the communications traffic. The hypercom, unsurprisingly, was being used as a relay for comm traffic all across the system. Terris made a note to hack its server banks for intelligence, and perhaps leave a timed virus or two to shut down the system after she was gone.
Her suit bleeped, alerting her that she was in optimum position to make the leap to the hypercom. She zoomed in on it, a red and spiked thing just like everything else the Alliance made, and calculated the right trajectory to land right on its metal surface.
Trying to jump from a moving asteroid out past Neldia’s rings and hit a hypercom station barely three hundred meters in diameter was like shooting a rifle from a jumbo jet in hopes of hitting a mosquito down on Earth. A nearly impossible shot, even with Coalition computers to help make the jump, and anyone lucky enough to make it would have been better served bankrupting their local casino at the slot machines.
Terris gave a command to her suit, activating a set of ion thrusters to boost her off the asteroid and adjust her course mid-flight. She’d never believed in luck.
She coasted silent and graceful past the particle guns in high orbit, like a majestic swan flying on a summer wind. Their sensor arrays were directed out, past her, to the far distant parts of space where a trillion tons of steel were locked in deadly battle. Terris really did wish she could smile at the moment. She was about to have unrestricted access to the biggest communications relay in the star system, able to send out viruses and receive vital intelligence that could cripple the Alliance fleet if placed in the right hands. Terris, confident as ever, knew they would be.
They had no idea she was even coming.
She reached the hypercom station in just under a day, agonizingly slow for a woman like her, hovering just above its surface to avoid triggering pressure sensors. After that, it was simple enough to get inside. Terris found it almost trivial to bypass the airlock sensor grid and trigger the outer bulkhead to open unnoticed, its report to the command room destroyed before it ever arrived. Entering the station itself was easy after that.
Here, there was gravity. She could not hover like she had on the outside of the station. But here, there were no pressure sensors. She really had no need to hover.
The corridor she found herself in was large enough, though nothing like the expansive halls of a dreadnought, and a patrol of marines in powered suits trundled towards her obliviously. Terris had made the right call not to wear a Phantom powered suit. She ducked into an alcove, the chameleon suit concealing her from even their impressive sensor batteries, and they passed by with no clue at all.
Terris made it to the server banks with ease. Most of the hypercom’s security measures took the form of warships in orbit, clustered tightly around the planet to prevent exactly this scenario from happening, but those warships were off waging war. The station defenses were hopeless now that she was actually inside.
The data was encrypted, and she could neither access it nor copy it without potentially fatal consequences, but she wasn’t there to steal data. A brief, milliseconds-long connection to the primary server was all it took to riddle the entire system with custom-tailored computer viruses. The viruses were self-replicating, rather like an electronic version of the biological ones on Earth. They worked similarly, too, meant to latch onto outgoing communications signals and remain inert for a certain amount of time before activating and wreaking havoc across cyberspace.
The program would be scoured from the net in seconds once it began its assault, but it would cause plenty of chaos before then. And, with another critical transmission being scheduled to send at around that time, Terris knew her mostly-ineffective virus attack would be just enough of a distraction to make sure its message was heard.
Terris planned to leave the station in approximately thirty minutes. Shortly after that, the fireworks would begin. It was going to be beautiful.
She heard footsteps. A maintenance worker, no doubt. It was time for her to go. She disconnected from the server, taking pains to hide her involvement, and snuck out of the server room like a ghost in the night.
Next was the transmission array. This room was better-guarded, its door being flanked by marines, but Terris slipped inside by trailing behind an officer as he entered on some unknown pretext. After that, her daring and sleight of hand made sure Admiral Dama’s pre-recorded propaganda transmission was uploaded to the hypercom transmitter. It came with a set of instructions bearing the Admiralty’s seal, changed to be anonymous, to ensure as many people as possible heard his message.
In just under one standard hour, the United Human Alliance would be shaken to its very core. Terris had just made sure of it.
It took longer than she had expected for the door to open again and give her a chance to slip out. Terris had spent that time quite productively, downloading as many incoming and outgoing messages as she could to the internal hard drive just by her spinal cord. Even if they were encrypted, they’d be useful intelligence once Coalition codebreakers took a crack at them.
After that, it was trivial to slip past marine patrols and escape to the hull of the hypercom station. Terris found her ride, an Alliance warship by the name of Brightest Thunder, holding orbit just near the hypercom station. Admiral Dama, even if he was no longer an admiral, still had connections.
She charged her ion thrusters by tapping into the station reactor, an act which did not go unnoticed, but by then it was too late to respond. She had completed her incursion. The damage had been done. Perhaps if the Alliance acted swiftly and accurately, they could undo it, but Terris was a careful woman. She had covered her tracks well.
Waving one final goodbye to the crew of the hypercom station, Terris triggered her thrust pack and shot off into the ink.
“You must be my passenger.” A handsome man in an Alliance captain’s uniform was waiting for her in the Brightest Thunder’s airlock. He wore a helmet and gloves, hermetically sealed to his airtight outfit, so he felt no effects from the vacuum of space. “I was sent by Sector Admiral Sheparda Dama,” he announced after a period of silence, “To transport you and whatever you may have safely to the Coalition fleet.” Nothing. Apart from the dull thudding of the ship’s railgun batteries, firing missiles at range to ward off a strike force of Coalition ships, the airlock was quiet as a ghost.
“You cannot expect me to endanger my life and the lives of my crew without at least some identification that you are who you claim to be!” Silence. Captain Senar Trevy had been standing in that airlock for three and a half hours, while his ship was tasked with screening Neldia and her eighteen billion inhabitants from harm, and he was just now wondering if he had been talking to a ghost.
“I am,” came a voice. Cold. Sterile. Inhuman. Exactly the kind Trevy expected from the secret spies of his former admiral.
“So you are.” Captain Trevy thought for a moment. He cycled the airlock. If his guest held hostile intent, one steel bulkhead would make no difference. “I’ve been stocking the crew with handpicked men and women since I received word of the operation,” he explained as they walked through the ship’s corridors. The crewmen he passed thought him insane. “I can’t vouch for them all, but the ship as a whole will obey me.” No response. Sometimes, Captain Trevy thought himself insane as well.
“This is my personal quarters,” he told the specter, stepping inside and sealing the door behind him. “I must warn you, for your own safety, it would be best not to leave it. The crew are mostly still Alliance loyalists.” He looked around, paying no heed to the decorated furniture or artificial sky, and finally shrugged and sighed. “Are you even here, still?”
Terris decloaked. She stood between him and the door, winged and cloaked in black like a demon of ancient myth. “I am.”
“You’re a black angel.” Senar Trevy, to his credit, kept his composure well. “A spy for the Ierad Republic.” He questioned her purpose here. They both knew it.
“You weren’t told?”
“I was told an alien would be coming aboard, but…” Trevy shrugged again, as if to say ‘what am I supposed to do?’ “The admiral vouched for you. That much is enough for me.” He also knew he had no choice in the matter. From what he knew about black angels, his ship had been lost the moment she boarded.
“I could have impersonated him,” said Terris, voice a perfect replica of Captain Trevy’s own. Even his own mother could not have told the difference. “And I’m trained to lie.” She was testing him, gauging his reaction to assess his personality. She was good at that.
“I could have you screened for deception,” Trevy countered, pointing up at a pearl-sized camera in the ceiling. Terris made a note that it was disabled. “And I could have had the technology officers vet your transmission.”
“I’m trained to lie well.” Terris sat down on Captain Trevy’s bed, a spartan thing compared to the sleeping quarters of most officers. There were no chairs in the room, so her options were few. She took off her helmet and tried to at least appear relaxed. In reality, she was anything but. “It comes with the job, really.”
“Fair,” Trevy chuckled, feigning calm. “I suppose the question now becomes whether or not you can trust me.”
“It’s a safe gamble.” Terris made a mental calculation. It would take her between thirty and fifty seconds to kill Captain Trevy, take the bridge, and vent the ship. That was a very safe gamble. “Besides, that’s what a peace treaty is.” Trevy looked confused. “A leap of faith. You trust your enemy to back their word, and you trust them to trust you as well. If we can’t get along here, can’t put aside our differences to work toward a common goal, then the Alliance will be right. And I hate it when they’re right.”
“I’m speaking to you now because I know they are wrong.” That came as no surprise to either of them. “You know, I was once a foreman of a labor crew in the munitions factories. The most productive unit in my sector.” That one did come as a surprise. “As a foreman, you get leeway to make certain decisions regarding the… well, I suppose they are slaves, under your command. Food intake and the like.” Captain Trevy looked pained when he brought up such memories. Terris wasn’t convinced that was how he really felt. “They use it to weed out any potential xeno sympathizers from the populace. Of course, at the time, I wasn’t so empathetic.”
“So you were a slave driver, and you beat your slaves to make them work. I hope every one of those shells was sabotaged.” Terris’ voice dripped with disdain. She had almost forgotten the Alliance captain was her enemy.
“No, I showed mercy,” Trevy defended himself. “I was generous.” This made Terris reconsider. Perhaps Senar Trevy could be an ally, if not a friend. “I won’t say I was a good man, but I wasn’t cruel. I was practical. Strong, healthy, well-treated workers are more productive than the beaten sacks of flesh in the other factories. My crew’s output was unmatched.”
“And?” Terris cocked her head inquisitively. For a high-ranking officer in the space navy of a genocidal regime, Senar Trevy really did not seem so bad. To be fair, however, she had set the bar pretty low.
“I was investigated for anti-human activity.” Terris could have predicted that. She almost did, too. “They sent me to the fleet, and my labor crew was reacquainted with the energy whips and pain beams.” There was no carrot for an Alliance labor slave. Only the stick. “Their productivity fell thirty percent in the first two weeks alone.” He sounded almost mournful as he said that. He was not lamenting the loss in productivity.
“You see,” said Trevy, “Hatred is not natural. It has to be caused, sustained, nurtured from the day a man is born until the day he dies.” With that, at least, Terris agreed. “And, as you’re about to see, a nation built around cruelty or prejudice cannot sustain itself. It will have to apply pressure to maintain its flawed status quo, like it did with me, and the pressure will build and build until it cannot build anymore.” He tapped a few buttons on the data disc in his hand. It began projecting an image of the battle for Neldia. He placed it on the bed next to Terris. “Now it’s breaking.”
“I wonder if they’ll find themselves in need of more shells.” Terris knew it wasn’t just shells. Every time a slave driver prioritized hatred over hard work, put cruelty over their quota, or even just bowed their head and obeyed the traditional dogma, they hurt the Alliance. Across nine worlds, with billions of slaves not working as they could have, things started to add up. “You know, for a superior species, your fleet is really getting its ass kicked right now. Might want to work on that.”
Captain Trevy nodded. His data disc beeped. He was needed on the bridge. “Agreed,” he said. “I hope this war ends soon, and to our mutual benefit. I’d hate to face you on the battlefield.” He picked up the data disc and turned to leave.
“Oh, forgot to mention, there’s a virus embedded in the transmissions you’ve received. Self-replicating. Nasty piece of work.” Terris shifted a bit in her seat. “Almost forgot about that.”
“Well, better to know now than when it’s activated,” Trevy smiled. “I’ll have Technology Officer Galdir investigate it.” With that, he left. His duty to the Alliance was nonexistent, but the men and women under his command still needed him. He had waited too long in the stateroom.
Terris, with nothing better to do, got to work on cracking the encryption in the transmissions she had copied. She failed. A transmission from deep in unknown space, sent from a dreadnought at the head of a task force known only as the Deep Expedition Fleet, was the only message she could read. Its contents, while troubling, mattered little at the moment. What was far more crucial, however, was the message Terris could not decipher. The military battle plan of Janus Ora’s personal armada.
The battle plan that, when analyzed on a Republic starship, would reveal its terrible secret too late.
The Coalition fleet was walking into a trap.
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2024.05.18 03:12 oxtour Backyard wedding?
Fiancé and I put a deposit down for a venue that needs everything rented - really, the only thing it provides is a beautiful space. We begun planning and realized that we were in over our heads with the venue itself - while we knew we'd need to rent things, they have a list of exclusive vendors, and no surprise, they're incredibly expensive. Additionally, they only have a few approved caterers, and those are at least 250/pp (just for food + service). With that venue, we'd cut down the guest list to 75, and exclude some extended family that we'd actually like to be invited.
We've revisited our budget and decided that we think this venue isn't worth it. Throughout our research of the exclusive vendors, we've done comparisons with other rental companies, caterers, and vendors, and have understood that there are many more affordable options out there.
We were trying to find a venue that had everything our style (simple but elegant, outdoorsy), but I kept thinking about my parent's house. It's 15 min outside of a major city, has ample flat backyard space for a tent, and growing up, my parents always talked about one of us having a wedding there. It's one of my favorite places in the world.
The other day, my mom suggested we hold the wedding at their house. I would love this, my fiancé thinks it's a good idea and that we wouldn't pay as much as our booked venue, but I want to be realistic. I've been trying to make sure I'm accounting for everything:
submitted by oxtour to weddingplanning [link] [comments]
We've revisited our budget and decided that we think this venue isn't worth it. Throughout our research of the exclusive vendors, we've done comparisons with other rental companies, caterers, and vendors, and have understood that there are many more affordable options out there.
We were trying to find a venue that had everything our style (simple but elegant, outdoorsy), but I kept thinking about my parent's house. It's 15 min outside of a major city, has ample flat backyard space for a tent, and growing up, my parents always talked about one of us having a wedding there. It's one of my favorite places in the world.
The other day, my mom suggested we hold the wedding at their house. I would love this, my fiancé thinks it's a good idea and that we wouldn't pay as much as our booked venue, but I want to be realistic. I've been trying to make sure I'm accounting for everything:
- Budget: We are still planning on using the same initial budget we had before (35k) but with the aim of saving as much as we can.
- Neighbors: Most of our neighbors will be out of town, but we will also give the rest a heads up. We know the surrounding neighbors pretty well, and the town has a noise ordinance that begins at 11 PM.
- Space: We are planning on getting a tent that will fit a DJ table, dance floor, and tables and chairs for our ~100 guests. We'll have a separate space for the ceremony as well as cocktail hour.
- Bathrooms: I think we should splurge for a restroom trailer, but we also have three restrooms in the house that guests can access. Also the house is not on a septic system.
- Electricity: We'll get an electrician to confirm, but we should be fine as we have an electric hookup through the garage as well.
- Rentals: We're prepared to rent all required equipment - tables, chairs, dance floor, tent, linens, kitchen equipment, etc.
- Decor: I love DIY'ing and have been preparing for wedding DIY and decor for awhile. I'm planning on creating all stationary, table centerpieces, signage, and maybe florals depending on how much we spend on florist.
- Parking: We have a few local parking lots that we could have people park in, and we're already planning on getting transportation from nearby hotels to the house.
- Planning: I know this is a ton to coordinate and plan, but I am too type A to let anyone else have all the details of the wedding, so this is actually more my style as well.
2024.05.17 07:14 tab_rick What is the Best Kitchen Island Countertop?
 | The kitchen island countertop is more than a functional surface; in modern homes, it stands as the heart of the kitchen. With a plethora of materials available, from granite and quartz to laminate and solid surface, selecting the ideal one can be challenging. Let’s explore the best options. submitted by tab_rick to KKRsolidsurface [link] [comments] What Makes a Kitchen Island Countertop Great?When considering a countertop, aesthetics alone won’t suffice. An outstanding kitchen island countertop combines durability, low maintenance, visual allure, and versatility. Let’s delve into these criteria further.Good DurabilityDurability is a critical attribute for countertops. Envision accidental wine spills or the impact of dropping heavy utensils. Materials like granite, quartz, solid surface and stainless steel are designed to resist such challenges, making them preferred choices for many homeowners. On the other hand, hardwood and butcher block, while also durable, provide a warmer aesthetic compared to the sleek appearance of stainless steel. For households with high activity or children, a strong yet aesthetically pleasing countertop is crucial.Easy MaintenanceMaintaining a pristine countertop shouldn’t require excessive time and effort. Prioritizing easy maintenance is essential. For example, solid surface countertops are non-porous, offering stain resistance. A swift cleaning suffices for its upkeep. Laminate is another user-friendly choice, though it may not match the durability of quartz. While stainless steel is effortless to clean, it might display fingerprints and scratches. It’s crucial to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each material. https://preview.redd.it/iefuw1xv5x0d1.png?width=612&format=png&auto=webp&s=392547d94a44e4ae472e2b51c3544357dc273278 Visual AppealThe kitchen often stands as the centerpiece of a home, demanding both aesthetic and functional considerations. Granite countertops, renowned for their distinctive patterns and shades, add a touch of visual allure. For those with a penchant for a modern and minimalist design, solid surface countertops are a fitting choice. Marble countertops, with their unique veining, exude an artistic elegance. Yet, while aesthetics play a role, it’s imperative to ensure that functionality isn’t compromised in the pursuit of beauty.MultitaskingA versatile kitchen island countertop provides notable benefits, especially in smaller kitchens with limited space. For example, a butcher block countertop functions both as a working area and an integrated chopping board. Moreover, countertops with integrated charging stations or storage features elevate their functionality and efficiency.Solid Surface CountertopSolid surface countertops offer design versatility, adeptly mimicking the aesthetics of natural stone, wood, or various other materials. Comprised primarily of natural minerals fused with high-quality resins, these countertops are gaining popularity among homeowners and design professionals alike.Examining the composition in detail, the predominant component in solid surface countertops is aluminum powder. This powder is a precise blend of 15+25+75, leading to a high-density, non-porous surface with minimal water absorption. The texture is smooth to the touch. Additionally, the incorporation of isophthalic resin guarantees the countertop exhibits an exceptional texture, augmented hardness, and increased resistance to discoloration and environmental pollutants. In simpler terms, its quality and performance are outstanding. Characteristics of Solid Surface CountertopSolid surface kitchen countertops have garnered attention in recent times. But what sets them apart? Let’s delve into their key features.
Granite CountertopGranite countertops epitomize a blend of sophistication and resilience. Recognized for its aesthetic allure and practical advantages, granite has long been a preferred choice for discerning homeowners. Let’s explore the attributes that position granite as a premium countertop material.What gives granite its distinct properties? Granite is an igneous rock, formed from cooled molten lava. This implies that your countertop might have originated from volcanic activity. Its primary constituents are quartz, feldspar, and mica, which contribute to its speckled appearance. The minerals present in granite provide a spectrum of colors, ranging from earthy browns and muted pinks to profound blacks and radiant whites. Characteristics of Granite Countertops
Marble CountertopMarble epitomizes luxury and refinement. Commonly linked with magnificence, marble countertops elevate the sophistication of any kitchen. But what attributes make marble stand out as a choice for kitchen island countertops? Marble is a metamorphic rock, evolved from limestone. Under specific heat and pressure conditions, it transforms into the distinguished stone recognized as marble. Its signature veining arises from impurities like clay, silt, and sand present during its formation.Characteristics of Marble Countertops
Quartz CountertopIn the dynamic realm of kitchen design, quartz countertops stand out as a preferred choice for both homeowners and designers. What makes quartz so captivating? Let’s delve into the unique characteristics of this exceptional material.Quartz, at its essence, is a prevalent natural mineral. However, when discussing quartz countertops, we’re addressing an engineered stone. This signifies that while it’s produced, it’s not wholly synthetic. The creation involves pulverizing natural quartz crystals into a refined powder, which is then amalgamated with other minerals and resins. A standard quartz countertop is composed of approximately 90% quartz and 10% resins, polymers, and colorants. This distinct blend yields a material that combines the aesthetics of natural stone with features unattainable by pure natural stones. Thanks to the manufacturing technique, there’s an expansive array of colors and designs available. This adaptability is a pivotal reason for quartz’s rising popularity in kitchen countertops. Characteristics of Quartz Countertop
Stainless Steel CountertopStainless steel countertops, once predominantly seen in commercial kitchens, are now gaining popularity in residential settings. Their appeal? A combination of a sleek, contemporary look and a host of functional advantages tailored for active kitchens.Stainless steel owes its “stainless” characteristic to its chromium composition. This element creates a protective layer on the surface, granting resistance against rust and everyday stains—a crucial feature in a space where spills are commonplace. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, stainless steel stands out for its remarkable durability. It can endure high temperatures and resist scratches, positioning it as a robust and almost unbeatable choice for kitchen surfaces. Characteristics of Stainless Steel Countertops
Porcelain CountertopPorcelain, traditionally linked with elegant tea sets and intricate vases, has now gracefully transitioned into the realm of kitchen island countertops. Its allure isn’t solely based on its aesthetic charm. Porcelain countertops combine both visual elegance and practical advantages, setting them apart from many other materials.Porcelain is a specialized ceramic, fired at exceptionally high temperatures to attain its robustness and longevity. Crafted from natural elements such as clay, feldspar, and quartz, these components are meticulously pulverized and then fused. The outcome is a compact, resilient material that stands up well against scratches, stains, and high temperatures. Characteristics of Porcelain Countertops
What is the Ideal Kitchen Island Countertop?
What makes it stand out? Solid surface countertops strike a harmonious balance between visual allure and practical advantages. They are not only easy to maintain and durable but also come in a diverse array of colors and patterns, ensuring adaptability to any kitchen aesthetic. In addition, the solid surface countertop can be designed into a unique pattern, which feels better than marble and is as warm as jade. Beyond their aesthetic charm, these countertops are pragmatically designed. Their non-porous nature renders them resistant to stains and bacterial growth. Their robustness ensures they endure daily kitchen wear and tear. For those with a penchant for personalization, the customization possibilities are boundless. In your quest for a new kitchen island countertop, the solid surface merits consideration. It seamlessly marries elegance with functionality. How to Design Solid Surface Kitchen Island Countertop?
Storage: Need for cabinets or shelves? Appliances: Integration of sink, cooktop, or outlets?
Overhang: For seating, allow at least 12 inches for legroom. Shape: Options include rectangular, L-shape, U-shape, or curved.
Color & Pattern: Select a hue that matches your kitchen. Decide on solid, veined, speckled, or patterned. Edge Profile: Choices range from square, beveled, bullnose, to ogee, based on your kitchen’s style.
Cooktop: Ensure adequate ventilation if included. Outlets: Think about pop-up or under-counter outlets. Backsplash: Consider one, especially with a sink or cooktop. Match or contrast with the countertop. Seating: Plan the seating type and quantity, ensuring ample spacing. Lighting: Evaluate pendant, recessed, or under-cabinet options
In essence, blend functionality with aesthetics, ensuring the island aligns with your kitchen’s overall design. Get the Outstanding Solid Surface Countertop From KKRIn the realm of solid surface countertops, quality and craftsmanship can significantly vary, positioning KKR as a beacon of reliability and excellence in the industry. Leveraging its established reputation as a trustworthy manufacturer of solid surface sheets and countertops, KKR stands synonymous with unparalleled quality.Drawing from a rich history of expertise, KKR has cultivated a deep understanding of homeowner necessities, offering an expansive selection of solid surface countertops to cater to diverse preferences. Whether your aesthetic leans towards the understated elegance of minimalist designs or the rich details of more elaborate styles, KKR promises to meet your specifications with precision. What distinctly delineates KKR from others is an unwavering dedication to quality. Every countertop emanates meticulous craftsmanship, meeting the apex of quality and durability standards. Moreover, KKR facilitates a smooth installation process, with a team of seasoned experts ensuring a flawless finish, harmoniously integrating the countertop into your space. Entrust your countertop needs to KKR, a brand epitomizing reliability and delivering products characterized by both beauty and longevity. When contemplating a solid surface countertop acquisition, KKR emerges as the preeminent choice, fulfilling its commitments with products that resonate with elegance and enduring quality. ConclusionChoosing the right countertop for your kitchen island is a pivotal decision that necessitates meticulous consideration. The array of materials on offer might initially appear overwhelming; however, understanding the pros and cons of each can facilitate a judicious choice. It is imperative that your selection not only resonates with your stylistic preferences but also adheres to your budgetary limitations.Solid surface countertops stand as a viable and economical alternative. These offer a blend of durability and affordability, without compromising on the diversity of design options available. To encapsulate, the quintessential countertop for your kitchen island is attainable. Through a thoughtful evaluation of each material’s strengths and weaknesses, you can arrive at a decision that harmoniously blends functionality with your aesthetic aspirations and financial framework. |
2024.05.16 23:27 GovTech A Brogue Guide
Note: This guide contains minor spoilers.
Brogue is a challenging game and many players never manage to “beat” it, despite months or even years of attempts. This guide is intended as a framework for optimizing your gameplay so that you too can join the ranks of glorious heroes who’ve ascended the Dungeons of Doom with the Amulet of Yendor held high.
Part 1: Mindset
In his book Outliers, the journalist Malcom Gladwell makes the case that plane crashes aren’t usually caused by a single event, but an accumulation of small factors that eventually become unmanageable for the pilots. This is a useful analogy for dying in Brogue.
In most cases, a monster won’t simply walk over and kill you. Rather, you’ll use an unidentified potion that causes you to catch on fire and in the course of walking to the water, you’ll trip over a confusion trap and end up getting stung to death by eels and toads. Things start off fine, a minor accident happens and then problems pile up and suddenly you’re dead. How did this happen?
Most deaths in Brogue can be attributed to underestimating the dangers that surround you and not having contingency plans ready. Winning, therefore, is largely a matter of isolating threats and dealing with each individually, while meanwhile collecting as many contingency plans as possible. It’s much easier to kill a single pink jelly by backing yourself into a nook, for instance, than it is to stand in the open and fight eight of them at once. Your odds of survival are much greater if you have several weapons and means of escape at hand.
As you play, constantly assess how much danger you’re in. You should do this each time you descend to a new level, but also periodically throughout each level. It helps to be somewhat familiar with the game’s monsters and other hazards and to know on which levels they typically appear. By the time you reach depth 6, for instance, there’s a good chance you’ll start encountering ogres. Don’t wait until one is standing in front of you to come up with a means of killing it. Have as many plans as possible ready before you can even see the ogre.
Tip: A common place people die is around depth 7 or 8. It’s by this time that, barring some great luck in early gear, you’ll need to begin committing to a build. The first few levels of the game will forgive a player who wanders around without much of a plan, but around depth 8, more difficult enemies appear and you need an efficient way to kill or avoid them.
Upon each descent to a new level, ask yourself, “How much am I risking by keeping this item unused in my inventory? Will using this now keep me alive on this level or am I simply wasting something that could be put to better use later?” Greedily hoarding six enchant scrolls because you still haven’t found the perfect weapon is a common precursor to death. Always just trying to stay alive for one more level is a viable strategy if you can sustain it until D26.
This leads us to the most underrated asset a player can wield in Brogue: information.
Part 2: Information
Like many roguelikes, Brogue is made more challenging because the player has incomplete information about his surroundings. The map is dark. There are hidden traps and enemies. Items and equipment are not identified. They could be cursed or harmful. And even if you know which items are harmful and which are helpful because you’ve used a detect magic potion, if it’s the first time you’ve encountered an item, you still won’t know precisely how it’s helpful or harmful.
Mere information is enough to keep you alive in many situations. That you could easily die with an unidentified teleport scroll in your inventory is evidence of this. The difference between being overcome by a group of furies or jackals and easily dispatching the group is knowing just where they are on the other side of that door. Waiting a few moments might save your life, if only you know well enough to do so.
You should not attempt to kill every monster in the dungeon. If you can clearly see that you can kill a monster and you’re sure that no other monster will approach during that fight, it’s generally a good idea to kill it so that it doesn’t later happen upon you at an inopportune time. But if there’s a dragon alone in a small room, it’s generally a good idea to leave him alone.
Scrolls of magic mapping, rings of awareness, rings of clairvoyance, telepathy charms and detect magic potions are incredibly valuable. Awareness gives your character free searches with each move, reducing the chance of stepping on a trap that could trigger a fatal chain reaction of events. Clairvoyance ensures you won’t miss hidden rooms and gives you advance notice of monsters. Telepathy shows you the locations and movement patterns of enemies. Detect magic ensures you won’t read a cursed scroll or equip a piece of equipment that could weaken your character long enough to kill him. Magic mapping ensures you and your allies don’t step on traps and it helps optimize your route, saving on food costs and aiding in tactical awareness for fights.
Your goal with regard to information should be a complete view of everything. This is not possible, but recognizing how much you can’t see and know is a useful step toward mitigating the risks that those information gaps present.
Tip: If you don’t have gear to help you detect hidden things, search often. (But not too often or you’ll run out of food and starve, perhaps the most ignominious of all Brogue deaths.) Clairvoyance and awareness rings are underrated — strongly consider taking them from vaults unless there’s a regeneration ring, which is perhaps the most powerful, or a ring you need for your build, like stealth or wisdom.
Part 3: Gear
Flexibility is key to survival in Brogue, because the environment is chaotic. Fires spread, clouds of noxious gasses unexpectedly fill the rooms and enemies grow greater in number as the player descends. Whatever your gear preference, the best way to survive is to decide on a build based on what’s available. Stubbornly clinging to the hope a broadsword will appear could mean an early death if you fail to use what gear is actually available.
A wide range of builds are viable. The key is to experiment, iterate and constantly assess how your selected loadout is faring against the dungeon’s threats.
Some seeds contain altars that allow the player to swap the enchants of one item to another, allowing the player to use one build in the early game and another for later levels.
Broadly, there are two strategies for gearing up. One is to put most or all enchants into a single item. The other is to spread the enchants around. Both can be viable depending on the seed.
Going all-in on a teleportation charm is a viable strategy with a bit of luck, and made more viable by armor that blocks dragonfire.
Fully enchanting a regeneration ring works best if the seed also happens to contain powerful weapons and armor with some level of innate enchantment.
Putting most or all enchants into a stealth ring can work if you have a war hammer, which is a slow weapon and otherwise difficult to use.
Many of the staves work well as the centerpiece of a build, as well.
There’s a table online that shows the amount of damage each weapon does. Consulting this can reveal tradeoffs in putting yet another enchant into your weapon versus diversifying and putting some enchants into a staff or ring, instead. It’s generally not worth enchanting armor unless it has a runic you’re using in your build.
Part 4: More tips to win Brogue
Even those who are good at Brogue die a lot. The No. 1 tip is to not give up. Replay each death, either in your mind or literally using the game’s recording function, to figure out what you might have done differently to survive. Eventually, you will prevail. It’s tough, but far from impossible.
Godspeed.
submitted by GovTech to brogueforum [link] [comments]
Brogue is a challenging game and many players never manage to “beat” it, despite months or even years of attempts. This guide is intended as a framework for optimizing your gameplay so that you too can join the ranks of glorious heroes who’ve ascended the Dungeons of Doom with the Amulet of Yendor held high.
Part 1: Mindset
In his book Outliers, the journalist Malcom Gladwell makes the case that plane crashes aren’t usually caused by a single event, but an accumulation of small factors that eventually become unmanageable for the pilots. This is a useful analogy for dying in Brogue.
In most cases, a monster won’t simply walk over and kill you. Rather, you’ll use an unidentified potion that causes you to catch on fire and in the course of walking to the water, you’ll trip over a confusion trap and end up getting stung to death by eels and toads. Things start off fine, a minor accident happens and then problems pile up and suddenly you’re dead. How did this happen?
Most deaths in Brogue can be attributed to underestimating the dangers that surround you and not having contingency plans ready. Winning, therefore, is largely a matter of isolating threats and dealing with each individually, while meanwhile collecting as many contingency plans as possible. It’s much easier to kill a single pink jelly by backing yourself into a nook, for instance, than it is to stand in the open and fight eight of them at once. Your odds of survival are much greater if you have several weapons and means of escape at hand.
As you play, constantly assess how much danger you’re in. You should do this each time you descend to a new level, but also periodically throughout each level. It helps to be somewhat familiar with the game’s monsters and other hazards and to know on which levels they typically appear. By the time you reach depth 6, for instance, there’s a good chance you’ll start encountering ogres. Don’t wait until one is standing in front of you to come up with a means of killing it. Have as many plans as possible ready before you can even see the ogre.
Tip: A common place people die is around depth 7 or 8. It’s by this time that, barring some great luck in early gear, you’ll need to begin committing to a build. The first few levels of the game will forgive a player who wanders around without much of a plan, but around depth 8, more difficult enemies appear and you need an efficient way to kill or avoid them.
Upon each descent to a new level, ask yourself, “How much am I risking by keeping this item unused in my inventory? Will using this now keep me alive on this level or am I simply wasting something that could be put to better use later?” Greedily hoarding six enchant scrolls because you still haven’t found the perfect weapon is a common precursor to death. Always just trying to stay alive for one more level is a viable strategy if you can sustain it until D26.
This leads us to the most underrated asset a player can wield in Brogue: information.
Part 2: Information
Like many roguelikes, Brogue is made more challenging because the player has incomplete information about his surroundings. The map is dark. There are hidden traps and enemies. Items and equipment are not identified. They could be cursed or harmful. And even if you know which items are harmful and which are helpful because you’ve used a detect magic potion, if it’s the first time you’ve encountered an item, you still won’t know precisely how it’s helpful or harmful.
Mere information is enough to keep you alive in many situations. That you could easily die with an unidentified teleport scroll in your inventory is evidence of this. The difference between being overcome by a group of furies or jackals and easily dispatching the group is knowing just where they are on the other side of that door. Waiting a few moments might save your life, if only you know well enough to do so.
You should not attempt to kill every monster in the dungeon. If you can clearly see that you can kill a monster and you’re sure that no other monster will approach during that fight, it’s generally a good idea to kill it so that it doesn’t later happen upon you at an inopportune time. But if there’s a dragon alone in a small room, it’s generally a good idea to leave him alone.
Scrolls of magic mapping, rings of awareness, rings of clairvoyance, telepathy charms and detect magic potions are incredibly valuable. Awareness gives your character free searches with each move, reducing the chance of stepping on a trap that could trigger a fatal chain reaction of events. Clairvoyance ensures you won’t miss hidden rooms and gives you advance notice of monsters. Telepathy shows you the locations and movement patterns of enemies. Detect magic ensures you won’t read a cursed scroll or equip a piece of equipment that could weaken your character long enough to kill him. Magic mapping ensures you and your allies don’t step on traps and it helps optimize your route, saving on food costs and aiding in tactical awareness for fights.
Your goal with regard to information should be a complete view of everything. This is not possible, but recognizing how much you can’t see and know is a useful step toward mitigating the risks that those information gaps present.
Tip: If you don’t have gear to help you detect hidden things, search often. (But not too often or you’ll run out of food and starve, perhaps the most ignominious of all Brogue deaths.) Clairvoyance and awareness rings are underrated — strongly consider taking them from vaults unless there’s a regeneration ring, which is perhaps the most powerful, or a ring you need for your build, like stealth or wisdom.
Part 3: Gear
Flexibility is key to survival in Brogue, because the environment is chaotic. Fires spread, clouds of noxious gasses unexpectedly fill the rooms and enemies grow greater in number as the player descends. Whatever your gear preference, the best way to survive is to decide on a build based on what’s available. Stubbornly clinging to the hope a broadsword will appear could mean an early death if you fail to use what gear is actually available.
A wide range of builds are viable. The key is to experiment, iterate and constantly assess how your selected loadout is faring against the dungeon’s threats.
Some seeds contain altars that allow the player to swap the enchants of one item to another, allowing the player to use one build in the early game and another for later levels.
Broadly, there are two strategies for gearing up. One is to put most or all enchants into a single item. The other is to spread the enchants around. Both can be viable depending on the seed.
Going all-in on a teleportation charm is a viable strategy with a bit of luck, and made more viable by armor that blocks dragonfire.
Fully enchanting a regeneration ring works best if the seed also happens to contain powerful weapons and armor with some level of innate enchantment.
Putting most or all enchants into a stealth ring can work if you have a war hammer, which is a slow weapon and otherwise difficult to use.
Many of the staves work well as the centerpiece of a build, as well.
There’s a table online that shows the amount of damage each weapon does. Consulting this can reveal tradeoffs in putting yet another enchant into your weapon versus diversifying and putting some enchants into a staff or ring, instead. It’s generally not worth enchanting armor unless it has a runic you’re using in your build.
Part 4: More tips to win Brogue
Even those who are good at Brogue die a lot. The No. 1 tip is to not give up. Replay each death, either in your mind or literally using the game’s recording function, to figure out what you might have done differently to survive. Eventually, you will prevail. It’s tough, but far from impossible.
- Consult the in-game “discovered items” menu to see which items you’ve discovered. This can help make risk-reward assessments when using unidentified items.
- Using unidentified items in batches (away from enemies) is a good way of mitigating the danger of that activity. Using a hallucination potion or fire potion is much less dangerous if you can follow it up immediately with a life potion.
- Stay away from eels.
- Avoid equipping unidentified gear unless you’re desperate or have a way of removing cursed gear, such as a scroll of remove curse, scroll of protect armor, scroll of protect weapon, or an enchant scroll. The latter is wasteful but better than being dead, and many cursed items can make a run fatally difficult.
- Remember helpful landmarks. Bloodwort stalks, pools of lava and chasms can all be used to help you navigate tricky situations. Bloodwort pods can heal. Luring enemies upstairs and then jumping down through chasms can eliminate threats. Lava can be combined with beckoning or entrancement to kill most enemies in a single turn.
- Try not to miss hidden rooms. They might contain food, life potions, enchant scrolls or other gear that would make a big difference between success and failure.
- Negation kills golems instantly.
- Don’t get cocky. No matter how powerful you get, getting paralyzed in the wrong place will kill you, as will many other things.
- Consider the multiple uses that items may have. A little forethought and creativity, combining items with the environment, can yield powerful outcomes.
- You can use an item from a vault and then return it to get a new item.
Godspeed.
2024.05.15 09:11 Sweet-Count2557 15 Things to Do on a New Paltz Family Day Trip
 | 15 Things to Do on a New Paltz Family Day Trip Are you looking for a perfect family day trip destination near New York City? Well, you might be surprised to learn that New Paltz, located just 90 miles north of the bustling city, offers a plethora of activities for the whole family to enjoy.From picturesque hiking trails to fascinating museums, this charming town has something for everyone.So, whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking to indulge in delicious food, join us as we uncover the 15 things you can do on a New Paltz family day trip.Trust us, you won't want to miss out on the exciting options that await you!Key TakeawaysOutdoor activities in New Paltz include hiking, rock climbing, biking, and canoeing/kayaking.There are various indoor activities such as visiting museums, attending performances, and playing at indoor parks.Educational activities include visiting art museums, learning about history, and exploring science centers.Families can enjoy dining at family-friendly restaurants, visiting parks and playgrounds, and exploring farms in the area.Outdoor ActivitiesWhen it comes to outdoor activities in New Paltz, there's no shortage of options for adventure and exploration. The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it the perfect destination for hiking and rock climbing enthusiasts.New Paltz is home to numerous hiking trails that cater to all skill levels, offering breathtaking views and the opportunity to connect with nature. One popular hiking destination is the Mohonk Preserve, which boasts over 8,000 acres of stunning scenery. Here, you can choose from a variety of trails that wind through forests, meadows, and along the Shawangunk Ridge. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there's a trail for everyone to enjoy.For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, rock climbing at The Gunks is a must. The Shawangunk Mountains are renowned for their world-class rock climbing routes, attracting climbers from all over the world. With its challenging cliffs and unique rock formations, The Gunks offer an exhilarating experience for climbers of all levels.Whether you're a nature lover or an adrenaline junkie, New Paltz has something to offer for everyone. The hiking trails and rock climbing opportunities in the area are unparalleled, providing endless possibilities for outdoor exploration. So, grab your hiking boots and harness, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of New Paltz.Indoor ActivitiesIndoor activities in New Paltz offer a diverse range of options for families looking to escape the elements and enjoy some quality time together. Whether you're looking for a little friendly competition or a chance to unleash your creativity, there's something for everyone.For those who love a good challenge, there are plenty of indoor games to keep you entertained. Head to the local arcade and try your hand at classic games like skee-ball and air hockey. Or, if you're feeling a bit more adventurous, check out the escape room where you can put your problem-solving skills to the test. With a variety of themes and difficulty levels, it's sure to be a thrilling experience for the whole family.If you're in the mood for something a bit more hands-on, why not try a creative workshop? There are several places in New Paltz where you can learn a new skill or craft. From pottery classes to painting workshops, there's no shortage of opportunities to let your imagination run wild. Not only will you have a blast creating something unique, but you'll also have a special keepsake to take home with you.No matter what your interests may be, New Paltz has plenty of indoor activities to keep you entertained. So, why not gather the family and escape the elements for a day of fun and adventure? Whether you're competing in indoor games or getting creative in a workshop, you're sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.Educational ActivitiesNew Paltz offers a wide range of educational activities that will engage and inspire the whole family. Here are three hands-on workshops and interactive exhibits that are sure to captivate your curiosity and expand your knowledge:The Dorsky Museum of Art: Step into a world of artistic expression as you explore the thought-provoking exhibits at the Dorsky Museum. From contemporary installations to classic masterpieces, this museum showcases a diverse collection that will ignite your imagination. Engage in interactive workshops where you can create your own artwork and experiment with different mediums.The Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art: Located on the SUNY New Paltz campus, the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of contemporary art. Immerse yourself in thought-provoking exhibits that challenge societal norms and spark conversations. Participate in hands-on workshops led by professional artists, where you can learn new techniques and unleash your creative potential.The Science Discovery Center: Embark on a journey of scientific exploration at the Science Discovery Center. Engage with interactive exhibits that bring the wonders of science to life. From experimenting with electricity to exploring the mysteries of the natural world, this center offers a captivating experience for all ages. Participate in hands-on workshops where you can conduct experiments and discover the scientific principles that shape our world.As you embark on your New Paltz family day trip, these educational activities won't only provide valuable learning experiences but also foster a sense of wonder and curiosity. So, embrace the freedom to explore, discover, and expand your knowledge as you engage with these immersive hands-on workshops and interactive exhibits.Family-Friendly RestaurantsLet's dive into the delicious world of family-friendly restaurants in New Paltz, where you can indulge in mouthwatering meals that cater to all tastes and preferences. New Paltz is home to some of the best family-friendly restaurants, offering a wide range of cuisines that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you're craving Italian, Mexican, or just a good old-fashioned burger, the restaurants in New Paltz have got you covered. Here are some of the top places to eat with kids in New Paltz:RestaurantCuisineHighlightsMain Course Catering & RestaurantAmericanOffers a kids' menu with options for all agesP&G's RestaurantItalianWood-fired pizza that will leave you craving for moreMexicali BlueMexicanColorful and flavorful dishes that kids will loveMoriello's GelatoDessertsHomemade gelato that will satisfy your sweet toothMain Course Catering & Restaurant is a popular choice for families, with its diverse menu that includes everything from burgers and sandwiches to pasta and seafood. They even have a kids' menu with options that will please even the pickiest eaters.If you're in the mood for some authentic Italian cuisine, P&G's Restaurant is the place to be. Their wood-fired pizza is a favorite among locals, and their pasta dishes are cooked to perfection.For a taste of Mexico, head to Mexicali Blue. Their colorful and flavorful dishes will transport you straight to Mexico, and they offer a variety of options for kids.And of course, no family day trip is complete without dessert. Stop by Moriello's Gelato for some homemade gelato that will satisfy your sweet tooth. With a wide range of flavors to choose from, there's something for everyone.These are just a few of the best family-friendly restaurants in New Paltz. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you're sure to find something that the whole family will enjoy.Parks and PlaygroundsAs we continue our exploration of family-friendly activities in New Paltz, let's venture into the world of outdoor fun and discover the parks and playgrounds that offer endless adventures for kids of all ages. New Paltz is home to some of the best parks for picnics and family-friendly playgrounds. Here are three must-visit outdoor destinations that will provide a sense of freedom and joy for the whole family:Hasbrouck Park: This park is a perfect spot for a family picnic. Spread out your blanket on the lush green grass and enjoy a delicious meal while surrounded by the beauty of nature. The playground in Hasbrouck Park offers a variety of equipment for kids to climb, slide, and swing, ensuring hours of fun and excitement.Sojourner Truth Park: With its basketball court and picnic area, Sojourner Truth Park is a fantastic place for families to gather and enjoy outdoor activities. Let the kids shoot some hoops while you relax and soak up the sun. Pack some snacks and have a delightful picnic in the shaded picnic area, creating lasting memories together.Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary: For a peaceful and serene picnic experience, head to the Nyquist-Harcourt Wildlife Sanctuary. This hidden gem is a haven for nature lovers and families alike. With its beautiful trails, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife, it offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing picnic. Let the kids explore the surroundings and discover the wonders of the natural world.New Paltz's parks and playgrounds provide a sense of freedom and adventure for families seeking outdoor fun. Whether you're enjoying a picnic, playing on the playground, or simply exploring the beauty of nature, these destinations offer endless opportunities for family bonding and creating cherished memories. So grab your picnic basket, gather the family, and embark on an exciting day of outdoor exploration in New Paltz.Family-Friendly FarmsFamily-Friendly Farms in New Paltz offer a unique and educational experience for families looking to connect with nature and learn about farm life. These farms provide a variety of family-friendly farm activities that are both fun and educational.One popular activity is visiting farm petting zoos, where children can interact with and learn about different farm animals. At Kelder's Farm, families can enjoy a petting zoo experience like no other. You can pet and feed a wide range of animals, including goats, sheep, pigs, and even llamas. Kids will love getting up close and personal with these friendly animals, and it's a great opportunity for them to learn about animal care and farm life.Saunderskill Farms is another great option for families looking for a farm experience. In addition to their fresh produce and baked goods, they also have a petting zoo where kids can meet and greet farm animals. From chickens and ducks to rabbits and goats, children can learn about different animal species and their roles on the farm.Apple Hill Farm is a must-visit for families interested in learning about farm animals. They offer guided tours where kids can see cows, horses, pigs, and more. The knowledgeable staff will explain the importance of each animal and how they contribute to the farm's operations.Family-friendly farms in New Paltz provide a hands-on experience that allows children to learn about farm life in a fun and engaging way. Whether it's petting and feeding animals at a farm petting zoo or taking a guided tour to learn about different farm animals, these activities are sure to create lasting memories for the whole family.Family-Friendly EventsAfter exploring the family-friendly farms in New Paltz and learning about farm life, it's time to discover the exciting and entertaining world of family-friendly events in this vibrant town. New Paltz offers a variety of events that are perfect for the whole family. Here are three events that are sure to evoke joy and create lasting memories:New Paltz Regatta and Rubber Duck Race: Join in the fun at the annual New Paltz Regatta and Rubber Duck Race. Watch as colorful rubber ducks race down the Wallkill River, and cheer for your favorite as they compete for the finish line. This event is filled with laughter, excitement, and friendly competition.New Paltz Winter Carnival: Embrace the winter season at the New Paltz Winter Carnival. This event features a range of activities for all ages, including ice skating, sledding, snowman building, and even a snowball fight. Warm up with hot cocoa and enjoy the festive atmosphere as you make memories with your loved ones.New Paltz Halloween Parade: Get into the spirit of Halloween at the New Paltz Halloween Parade. Dress up in your favorite costume and join the community in a lively parade filled with music, dancing, and plenty of candy. This event is perfect for families who love the thrill of Halloween and want to celebrate together.These family-friendly events in New Paltz provide an opportunity to bond with loved ones, embrace the joy of community, and create cherished memories. Whether it's cheering on rubber ducks, enjoying winter activities, or celebrating Halloween, these events offer something for everyone.Historical SitesNew Paltz is home to a rich tapestry of historical sites that offer a glimpse into the town's fascinating past. From the Huguenot Street Historic District to the Deyo House Historic Site, there are many places to explore and learn about the town's history. Take a step back in time with historical walking tours and immerse yourself in the past with historical reenactments.Here is a table showcasing some of the historical sites in New Paltz:Historical SitesDescriptionHuguenot Street Historic DistrictA National Historic Landmark that preserves the unique history and culture of the Huguenots who settled in New Paltz in the 17th century.Deyo House Historic SiteExplore this historic house museum that showcases the lifestyle of a wealthy 19th-century family in New Paltz.Historic Huguenot Street CemeteryDiscover the final resting place of the Huguenot settlers and learn about their lives and contributions.Historical walking tours provide a great opportunity to explore these sites and gain a deeper understanding of New Paltz's history. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through the streets, sharing interesting anecdotes and stories along the way. You'll feel as if you've traveled back in time as you walk in the footsteps of those who came before.For an even more immersive experience, don't miss the chance to witness historical reenactments. These events bring history to life as actors dress in period costumes and recreate significant moments from New Paltz's past. Whether it's a battle reenactment or a colonial market, you'll be transported to a different time and gain a newfound appreciation for the town's history.New Paltz's historical sites offer a window into the past and provide a unique and educational experience for the whole family. So, grab your walking shoes and prepare to be captivated by the rich history that awaits you in this charming town.Nature CentersAs we continue our exploration of New Paltz, let's now turn our attention to the fascinating world of nature centers. These centers offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature, learn about wildlife, and engage in hands-on activities.Here are three exciting nature center activities that are sure to captivate the whole family:Wildlife Education Programs: Immerse yourself in the wonders of the natural world through engaging wildlife education programs. From interactive exhibits to live animal presentations, these programs provide a chance to learn about local ecosystems, animal behavior, and conservation efforts. Get up close and personal with fascinating creatures and gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of our planet's biodiversity.Guided Nature Walks: Embark on a guided nature walk led by knowledgeable naturalists who'll introduce you to the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Explore scenic trails while learning about the unique features of the local ecosystem. Observe birds in their natural habitats, identify different plant species, and discover the hidden wonders of the natural world. These walks offer a chance to reconnect with nature and experience the serenity of the great outdoors.Nature-themed Workshops: Participate in nature-themed workshops that foster creativity and appreciation for the environment. From art classes inspired by the beauty of nature to hands-on activities focused on sustainability, these workshops provide an opportunity to learn new skills while deepening your connection with the natural world. Engage in eco-friendly crafts, explore nature-inspired photography, or try your hand at creating nature journals. These workshops are a perfect blend of education and fun.Nature centers offer a wealth of opportunities to learn, explore, and connect with the natural world. Engage in wildlife education programs, join guided nature walks, and participate in nature-themed workshops to create lasting memories and foster a sense of wonder and appreciation for our planet's incredible biodiversity.Water ActivitiesTo make the most of your family trip to New Paltz, immerse yourselves in a world of water activities that offer fun and adventure for everyone.New Paltz is surrounded by beautiful bodies of water, providing plenty of opportunities for water sports and boat tours.If you're looking for some excitement, try your hand at water sports on the Hudson River. You can rent paddleboards or kayaks and explore the scenic river at your own pace. Feel the rush as you paddle through the gentle currents and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.For a more relaxing experience, consider taking a boat tour on the Hudson River. Hop aboard a comfortable vessel and let the knowledgeable guides show you the sights. Cruise along the river while learning about the history and wildlife of the area. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles soaring above and maybe even catch a glimpse of a playful seal.No matter which water activity you choose, be sure to pack sunscreen, towels, and a sense of adventure. Remember to stay hydrated and respect the environment by practicing responsible water sports and leaving no trace behind.Arts and CraftsLooking to unleash your creativity and explore the world of arts and crafts in New Paltz? You're in luck! This vibrant town offers a variety of opportunities for art workshops and handmade crafts that will inspire and delight. Here are three exciting options to consider:Mud and Fire Pottery Studio: Step into the world of pottery and get your hands dirty at Mud and Fire Pottery Studio. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, their pottery classes cater to all skill levels. Learn the art of throwing clay on a wheel, hand-building techniques, or glazing and firing your creations. The studio provides a supportive and encouraging environment where you can let your imagination run wild and create unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.Fiber Flame Studio: If textile arts are more your style, then Fiber Flame Studio is the place to be. This cozy and inviting studio offers a wide range of classes and workshops, including fiber arts, mixed media, and collage. Dive into the world of fabric, yarn, and paper as you explore various techniques such as weaving, knitting, and needle felting. Let your creativity flow as you create beautiful and intricate pieces that reflect your personal style.Wallkill River School of Art: Immerse yourself in the world of painting at the Wallkill River School of Art. This art school and gallery offers a variety of painting classes for all ages and skill levels. From acrylics to watercolors, landscapes to portraits, there's something for everyone. Learn from experienced instructors who'll guide you through the process, helping you develop your skills and unleash your artistic potential. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, the Wallkill River School of Art is the perfect place to express yourself and create masterpieces.With these art workshops and handmade crafts, New Paltz provides the perfect opportunity to explore your creative side. Let your imagination soar as you engage in these artistic endeavors and discover the freedom of self-expression. Whether you choose pottery, textile arts, or painting, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and fulfilled.Sports and RecreationNew Paltz offers a wide range of exciting sports and recreational activities that are sure to keep the whole family entertained and active. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures or indoor fun, there's something for everyone in this vibrant town.For those who enjoy outdoor activities, New Paltz is a paradise. You can explore the numerous hiking trails in Mohonk Preserve, where breathtaking views and serene nature await. If rock climbing is your thing, head to The Gunks, a world-renowned climbing destination. Biking enthusiasts can pedal along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail, while water lovers can canoe or kayak on the Hudson River.If you prefer indoor activities, there are plenty of options as well. Visit the Children's Museum of the Hudson Valley, where kids can learn and play at the same time. Explore the Historic Huguenot Street, a living museum that takes you back in time. You can also catch a performance at the McKenna Theatre or bounce around at the indoor trampoline park, Bounce!New Paltz is also home to family-friendly sports facilities. Play a round of mini-golf at the Apple Greens Golf Course or try horseback riding at the Payne Farm Too. The SUNY New Paltz Tennis Courts are perfect for a friendly game of tennis, and the New Paltz Golf Course offers a beautiful setting for a round of golf. If you're visiting during the colder months, don't miss the opportunity to go ice skating at the Kiwanis Ice Arena.No matter what your interests are, New Paltz has something for everyone. So gather your family and get ready for a day filled with excitement and adventure in this charming town.Day TripsEmbark on a day trip from New Paltz and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the surrounding areas. There are plenty of nearby towns to explore, each offering its own unique attractions and landmarks. Here are three options that are sure to evoke a sense of adventure and freedom:Visit the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie: Take a stroll across the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world and soak in breathtaking views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscapes. Feel the wind in your hair as you walk along the expansive bridge, enjoying the freedom of being suspended high above the water.Explore the Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz: Step back in time as you explore this historic Victorian castle nestled in the heart of the Shawangunk Mountains. Wander through lush gardens, hike scenic trails, or relax by the lake. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area and revel in the freedom of being surrounded by nature.Discover the Storm King Art Center in New Windsor: Lose yourself in the vast outdoor sculpture park that spans over 500 acres of rolling hills and fields. Marvel at the impressive collection of large-scale sculptures by renowned artists. As you wander through the expansive landscape, you'll feel a sense of freedom and liberation as you explore the intersection of art and nature.These day trips offer the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in the freedom of exploration. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let the adventure begin!ShoppingWhen it comes to shopping in New Paltz, there's no shortage of unique and charming stores to explore. Whether you're looking for local boutiques or artisan markets, this town has it all.One of the must-visit places for shopping in New Paltz is the Water Street Market. This picturesque market is home to a variety of shops that offer everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing. You can spend hours browsing through the quaint stores and discovering one-of-a-kind treasures.Another great shopping destination in New Paltz is the New Paltz Plaza. This shopping center offers a wide range of stores, including popular retail chains and local businesses. You can find everything you need, from clothing and accessories to home decor and electronics. The plaza also has plenty of dining options, so you can grab a bite to eat after a day of shopping.If you're looking for unique and handmade crafts, the Unframed Artists Gallery is the place to go. This gallery features the work of local artists and artisans, offering a wide range of handmade items such as pottery, paintings, and sculptures. It's the perfect place to find a special gift or a piece of artwork to decorate your home.For fresh and local produce, don't miss the New Paltz Farmers Market. This market is held every Sunday and features a variety of vendors selling fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and more. It's a great place to support local farmers and enjoy the flavors of the Hudson Valley.In addition to these shopping destinations, Main Street in New Paltz is lined with charming antique shops. You can browse through a wide selection of vintage furniture, clothing, and collectibles, and maybe even find a hidden gem.With its local boutiques, artisan markets, and charming antique shops, New Paltz is a shopper's paradise. Whether you're searching for unique gifts, handmade crafts, or fresh produce, you're sure to find it in this vibrant town. So grab your wallet and get ready to explore the wonderful world of shopping in New Paltz.Seasonal ActivitiesAs the seasons change in New Paltz, there are a variety of activities that offer something for everyone to enjoy. From winter wonderlands to festive markets, here are three seasonal activities that will ignite your sense of adventure and create lasting memories:Christmas Tree Farms: Immerse yourself in the spirit of the holiday season by visiting one of the charming Christmas tree farms in New Paltz. Bring your family along and wander through rows of beautifully decorated trees, breathing in the crisp winter air as you search for the perfect centerpiece for your home. The joy of finding and cutting down your own Christmas tree is an experience that will bring smiles to faces of all ages.New Paltz Winter Farmers Market: Embrace the cozy atmosphere of the winter season by visiting the New Paltz Winter Farmers Market. This vibrant market showcases an array of local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats. Stroll through the market, savoring the scents of warm apple cider and freshly baked bread. Engage with the friendly vendors, supporting their small businesses and discovering unique treasures that will delight your taste buds and nourish your body.New Paltz Spring Clean-Up Day: As the winter months transition into spring, join the community in a day of rejuvenation and restoration. Participate in the New Paltz Spring Clean-Up Day, where families come together to beautify their town by cleaning up parks, streets, and public spaces. This hands-on activity not only promotes a sense of civic pride and environmental stewardship but also fosters a deeper connection with the community. Pitch in with your loved ones, rolling up your sleeves and making a tangible difference in the place you call home.Celebrate the changing seasons in New Paltz with these engaging and family-friendly activities. Whether you're searching for the perfect Christmas tree, exploring a winter farmers market, or giving back to your community, there's always something special to do in this vibrant town. So, embrace the freedom of the seasons and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.Frequently Asked QuestionsAre There Any Nearby Wineries or Vineyards to Visit During a New Paltz Family Day Trip?Yes, there are nearby wineries and family-friendly vineyards to visit during a New Paltz family day trip. You can explore the Robibero Family Vineyards, where you can enjoy wine tastings and beautiful views of the vineyards.Another option is the Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery, which offers a variety of award-winning wines and a picnic area for families to relax and enjoy.These wineries provide a perfect opportunity to unwind and experience the local wine culture while spending quality time with your loved ones.What Are Some Family-Friendly Hiking Trails in the New Paltz Area?When it comes to family-friendly hiking trails in the New Paltz area, there are plenty of options to choose from.Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Mohonk Preserve, where you can enjoy scenic views and picnic spots along the way.Or, explore the trails at Minnewaska State Park, which offer a mix of easy and moderate hikes suitable for all ages.These local attractions for kids are the perfect way to connect with nature and create lasting memories as a family.Are There Any Family-Friendly Museums or Art Galleries in New Paltz?Yes, there are family-friendly museums and art galleries in New Paltz.The Dorsky Museum of Art is a great place to explore various art exhibits and learn about different artistic styles.The Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art is another museum that showcases contemporary art and offers educational programs for families.These museums provide a fun and educational experience for all ages, making them perfect destinations for a family day trip in New Paltz.Where Can Families Go for Swimming or Water Activities in New Paltz?For families looking for swimming spots or water activities in New Paltz, there are some great options to choose from.You can swim in the beautiful Lake Minnewaska, go fishing in the Wallkill River, or even try paddleboarding on the Wallkill River.Additionally, you can enjoy a boat tour on the Hudson River or have a picnic at the scenic Rosendale Trestle, which overlooks the Rondout Creek.There are plenty of opportunities for water fun in New Paltz!What Are Some Options for Family-Friendly Lodging in New Paltz for an Overnight Stay?When it comes to family-friendly lodging in New Paltz for an overnight stay, there are plenty of options to choose from. From cozy bed and breakfasts to spacious vacation rentals, there's something for every family's needs and preferences.These accommodations offer comfortable amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable stay for both parents and kids.With a range of kid-friendly activities in New Paltz, families can explore the outdoors, visit museums, and indulge in delicious meals, creating lasting memories together.ConclusionAs the sun sets on our family day trip to New Paltz, we carry with us memories that sparkle like the stars in the night sky.From soaring high on hiking trails to immersing ourselves in art and history, we discovered the beauty and wonder of this charming town.With bellies full of delicious meals and hearts full of joy, we bid farewell to New Paltz, knowing that our adventure will forever be etched in the tapestry of our family's story. submitted by Sweet-Count2557 to worldkidstravel [link] [comments] |
2024.05.15 03:26 new2525 Curious
Okay so this might seem like an incredibly stupid or ignorant question but I need help!!
Details: We’re thinking about having our wedding reception at my parents modern barn (saving us about $6,000), they have a HUGE amount of space indoor and out. Our guest list is about 75-100. We’re planning on renting out everything for the reception (glassware, flatware, plates). I’m VERY confused on who to hire for what jobs during the reception.
QUESTIONS: 1. If we hire a caterer, do they serve the food and attend to the drinks the whole dinner time? (Filling water, taking the plates etc)
submitted by new2525 to weddingplanning [link] [comments]
Details: We’re thinking about having our wedding reception at my parents modern barn (saving us about $6,000), they have a HUGE amount of space indoor and out. Our guest list is about 75-100. We’re planning on renting out everything for the reception (glassware, flatware, plates). I’m VERY confused on who to hire for what jobs during the reception.
QUESTIONS: 1. If we hire a caterer, do they serve the food and attend to the drinks the whole dinner time? (Filling water, taking the plates etc)
- Who washes the dirty dishes?
- Who sets up/takes down the tables? (Linens, napkins, candles, centerpieces, glassware etc)
- If we decide to bring our own food, who then serves the food/drinks and attends to guests during dinner? (I’m not sure what this job is called)
2024.05.14 23:05 printerdsw1968 A Site of Historic Significance
 | Having read the various band biographies, I'd known for many years that the early Grateful Dead had decamped to Los Angeles for a short period in 1966, semi-coordinated with the Pranksters, who'd split from the Bay when Kesey went on the lam. The 02/12/1966 Watts Acid Test is the centerpiece event in most of the histories of that period. The other oft-remarked aspect of this time is the dictatorial proto-Paleo diet imposed on the band by the new force of nature on the scene, Owsley. submitted by printerdsw1968 to gratefuldead [link] [comments] But where did the boys stay during this time? According to Jesse on the Bear Drops: LA '66 episode of the Good Ol' Grateful Deadcast, around 34:00, the young and fresh Grateful Dead landed here, in this very house in the West Adams Avenues section of South Central, now designated a historic district, full of lovely old homes. The 2511 street address appears on an old rent invoice kept in the Grateful Dead archives at UC-Santa Cruz. This happens to be only a short walk from where we live today! We'd ambled by it many times before I heard that episode of the Deadcast. Jesse's guests--Tim Scully, Rosie McGee, and Bear from Gans's interview archives--break down life inside the house, who had which rooms, how the dope was contained by consensus to one room so as to minimize possession charges in the event of a bust, etc. Now I look at the house and imagine the boys sitting around getting high, working on original tunes, plotting moves but also simply enjoying the freedom of youth and pure band camaraderie. Bear was there, paying for rent and food, and then joined by Rosie and Scully. But the band as yet had no official manager, no road crew, and none of the sprawling GD family yet to come. Bill Graham was in the middle of wrangling a dance hall permit from the San Francisco authorities. Acid was still legal. The wave was just beginning to gather its energy. This was before Mickey, before Gary Lambert saw them play in NYC for the first time in '67, before Big Steve joined the crew, even before Ramrod. Besides Rosie and Scully, prob the only people still around from that time are the surviving three co-founders, Bob, Phil, and Billy. And maybe a few Pranksters, ie Mountain Girl etc, but the Pranksters were on their own trip at the time. They occupied the house for only about two months, maybe more like six weeks. Then to a pad in Venice for a very short crash/stay, and then the nomadic music and noise makers headed back north to Olompali and their next chapter.... |
2024.05.14 19:39 Dennis6540 Gurjaras Mill thing.
Can someone please explain to me how this works? How does putting herdables in Mills do something? Does it give a food trickle? Does it make the animals fatten? Is it a centerpiece bonus, or an out there bonus? Is it worth something? Does it explain the 2 berry bushes you get for that, and is that a compensation? I'm very confused about Gurjaras. They have a very alien feel to them.
submitted by Dennis6540 to aoe2 [link] [comments]
2024.05.14 16:09 TreeTalesHub Canary Island Date Palm: A Majestic Touch to Your Landscape
 | The Canary Island date palm! Known scientifically as Phoenix canariensisThe Canary Island date palm! Known scientifically as Phoenix canariensis, this stately tree is more than just a plant; it's a striking feature of many landscapes. Originating from the Canary Islands, this palm is celebrated for its robust nature and elegant appearance. Suppose you've admired the line of tall, regal trees swaying gently in a Mediterranean breeze. In that case, you've likely been captivated by the Canary Island date palm. submitted by TreeTalesHub to u/TreeTalesHub [link] [comments] The Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis), native to the Canary Islands, is a majestic tree that enhances any landscape with its towering height and lush arching fronds. Ideal for both private gardens and public spaces, it requires full sun, moderate watering, and well-drained soil to thrive. This palm is visually stunning and plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by supporting local wildlife and sequestering carbon dioxide. Regular maintenance, including pest management and seasonal care, ensures its health and longevity, making the Canary Islands date palm a timeless choice for landscaping that combines beauty with environmental benefits. Canary Island Date Palm: A Majestic Touch to Your Landscape Why Choose Canary Island Date Palms?Choosing a Canary Island date palm for your garden or street landscaping isn't just about adding greenery; it's about making a statement. These palms feature a thick, textured trunk and a lush crown of arching leaves that command attention. Whether planted in rows to create a natural fence or used as a standalone centerpiece, these palms bring a touch of exotic elegance.Growth and CareGrowing a Canary Island date palm is a commitment to its future. These trees can reach up to 60 feet in height in their natural habitat. While they grow relatively slowly, their presence becomes more majestic each year. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them suitable for various landscape settings.Watering needs are moderate, and the key is not to overwater, as the tree's roots do not like to sit in moisture. A balanced palm fertilizer can support healthy growth, especially during the growing seasons of spring and summer. Landscape IntegrationIntegrating a Canary Island date palm into your landscape can transform the area. These trees pair beautifully with other Mediterranean plants, such as lavender and rosemary, creating a serene, drought-tolerant garden. They're also perfect for lining driveways or as grand entrance features. Imagine driving up to a home or business flanked by these magnificent palms. It’s a scene straight out of a luxury resort!Pest ManagementWhile generally robust, Canary Island date palms are not without their foes. The palm weevil is a notorious pest, and managing these critters is crucial for your tree's health. Regular monitoring and treatment with appropriate biological or chemical controls can keep these pests at bay, preserving your tree's health and aesthetics.Seasonal Care TipsSeasonal care is essential for maintaining the vibrancy of these palms. In spring, remove dead fronds and apply mulch to help retain soil moisture. Summer might call for increased watering if temperatures soar. At the same time, autumn is ideal for another round of fertilizer to strengthen the tree before winter. Speaking of winter, while these palms are somewhat cold-tolerant, they appreciate some protection from extreme frosts, especially when young.The Environmental ImpactPlanting a Canary Island date palm also has environmental benefits. These trees are excellent at carbon sequestration, capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it as carbon. Moreover, they provide habitat and food for various bird species, enhancing local biodiversity.Final ThoughtSo, you have a deep dive into the Canary Islands' date palm world. Whether you're an avid gardener or a professional landscaper, consider this palm for its unmatched aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits. It's more than just a tree; it's a legacy you plant today for future generations. So why wait? Bring a piece of the Canary Islands to your space, and let the majesty of the Canary Island date palm redefine your landscape.FAQs about Canary Island Date PalmsHow long does it take for a Canary Island date palm to grow?Canary Island date palms are known for their slow growth rate. On average, these palms grow about 6 to 12 inches per year. It may take several years to reach their full height. Still, they become striking features in any landscape with proper care and favorable conditions.How tall do Canary Island date palms get?In their natural habitat and under optimal growing conditions, Canary Island date palms can reach heights up to 60 feet. However, cultivated in gardens or urban settings typically grow between 40 and 50 feet. Their majestic height is complemented by a broad, dense crown that can spread widely.Can you eat Canary Island date palm fruit?Yes, the fruit of the Canary Island date palm is edible. Still, it's less sweet or desirable than the fruit from the actual date palm (Phoenix dactylifera). The fruits are small, with a thin flesh layer around a large seed, and they have a somewhat fibrous texture and a mild flavor. They are more commonly used for ornamental purposes rather than for consumption.How hardy is a Canary Island date palm?Canary Island date palms are hardy and withstand about 20°F (-6°C). However, young palms are more susceptible to cold damage. They are suitable for growing in USDA zones 9 to 11. In colder climates, they require protection during winter or can be grown in large containers that are moved indoors during colder months.Do Canary Island date palms need a lot of water?Canary Island date palms have moderate water needs. They thrive with regular watering but are drought-tolerant once established. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, so it's essential to ensure that they are planted in well-drained soil and that watering is adjusted according to rainfall and soil moisture levels., this stately tree is more than just a plant; it's a striking feature of many landscapes. Originating from the Canary Islands, this palm is celebrated for its robust nature and elegant appearance. Suppose you've admired the line of tall, regal trees swaying gently in a Mediterranean breeze. In that case, you've likely been captivated by the Canary Island date palm. The Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis), native to the Canary Islands, is a majestic tree that enhances any landscape with its towering height and lush arching fronds. Ideal for both private gardens and public spaces, it requires full sun, moderate watering, and well-drained soil to thrive. This palm is visually stunning and plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by supporting local wildlife and sequestering carbon dioxide. Regular maintenance, including pest management and seasonal care, ensures its health and longevity, making the Canary Islands date palm a timeless choice for landscaping that combines beauty with environmental benefits. Why Choose Canary Island Date Palms?Choosing a Canary Island date palm for your garden or street landscaping isn't just about adding greenery; it's about making a statement. These palms feature a thick, textured trunk and a lush crown of arching leaves that command attention. Whether planted in rows to create a natural fence or used as a standalone centerpiece, these palms bring a touch of exotic elegance.Growth and CareGrowing a Canary Island date palm is a commitment to its future. These trees can reach up to 60 feet in height in their natural habitat. While they grow relatively slowly, their presence becomes more majestic each year. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them suitable for various landscape settings.Watering needs are moderate, and the key is not to overwater, as the tree's roots do not like to sit in moisture. A balanced palm fertilizer can support healthy growth, especially during the growing seasons of spring and summer. Landscape IntegrationIntegrating a Canary Island date palm into your landscape can transform the area. These trees pair beautifully with other Mediterranean plants, such as lavender and rosemary, creating a serene, drought-tolerant garden. They're also perfect for lining driveways or as grand entrance features. Imagine driving up to a home or business flanked by these magnificent palms. It’s a scene straight out of a luxury resort!Pest ManagementWhile generally robust, Canary Island date palms are not without their foes. The palm weevil is a notorious pest, and managing these critters is crucial for your tree's health. Regular monitoring and treatment with appropriate biological or chemical controls can keep these pests at bay, preserving your tree's health and aesthetics.Seasonal Care TipsSeasonal care is essential for maintaining the vibrancy of these palms. In spring, remove dead fronds and apply mulch to help retain soil moisture. Summer might call for increased watering if temperatures soar. At the same time, autumn is ideal for another round of fertilizer to strengthen the tree before winter. Speaking of winter, while these palms are somewhat cold-tolerant, they appreciate some protection from extreme frosts, especially when young.The Environmental ImpactPlanting a Canary Island date palm also has environmental benefits. These trees are excellent at carbon sequestration, capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it as carbon. Moreover, they provide habitat and food for various bird species, enhancing local biodiversity.Final ThoughtSo, you have a deep dive into the Canary Islands' date palm world. Whether you're an avid gardener or a professional landscaper, consider this palm for its unmatched aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits. It's more than just a tree; it's a legacy you plant today for future generations. So why wait? Bring a piece of the Canary Islands to your space, and let the majesty of the Canary Island date palm redefine your landscape.FAQs about Canary Island Date PalmsHow long does it take for a Canary Island date palm to grow?Canary Island date palms are known for their slow growth rate. On average, these palms grow about 6 to 12 inches per year. It may take several years to reach their full height. Still, they become striking features in any landscape with proper care and favorable conditions.How tall do Canary Island date palms get?In their natural habitat and under optimal growing conditions, Canary Island date palms can reach heights up to 60 feet. However, cultivated in gardens or urban settings typically grow between 40 and 50 feet. Their majestic height is complemented by a broad, dense crown that can spread widely.Can you eat Canary Island date palm fruit?Yes, the fruit of the Canary Island date palm is edible. Still, it's less sweet or desirable than the fruit from the actual date palm (Phoenix dactylifera). The fruits are small, with a thin flesh layer around a large seed, and they have a somewhat fibrous texture and a mild flavor. They are more commonly used for ornamental purposes rather than for consumption.How hardy is a Canary Island date palm?Canary Island date palms are hardy and withstand about 20°F (-6°C). However, young palms are more susceptible to cold damage. They are suitable for growing in USDA zones 9 to 11. In colder climates, they require protection during winter or can be grown in large containers that are moved indoors during colder months.Do Canary Island date palms need a lot of water?Canary Island date palms have moderate water needs. They thrive with regular watering but are drought-tolerant once established. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, so it's essential to ensure that they are planted in well-drained soil and that watering is adjusted according to rainfall and soil moisture levels. |
2024.05.14 01:36 Cptn-40 Dwarves & Dreamers - Interesting Similarities
MURTAGH spoilers ahead.
Hi all,
Just wanted to share some interesting similarities between Dwarves and Dreamers I noticed while rereading parts of Murtagh and Eldest. I'll also call attention to some interesting unrelated comments on some of the text cited below as well.
Religion & Incense:
Eldest:
A side note: Dreamers love rings - Bachel wears many. Sarros, too, wore many rings:
Incense:
Eldest: At Celbediel, religious center of Tarnag
Feasts:
Eldest:
I'm going to leave you with an interesting quote from Inheritance, when Eragon and Arya are in the tunnels beneath Dras-Leona:
- was Vrael a Dreamer?
- Who are the light-bringers?
submitted by Cptn-40 to Eragon [link] [comments]
Hi all,
Just wanted to share some interesting similarities between Dwarves and Dreamers I noticed while rereading parts of Murtagh and Eldest. I'll also call attention to some interesting unrelated comments on some of the text cited below as well.
Religion & Incense:
Eldest:
The dwarf beckoned again and strode down the main avenue towardMURTAGH:
Celbedeil. As they passed under its eaves, Eragon could only marvel at
the wealth and craftsmanship displayed around him. The walls were
spotted with gems of every color and cut—though all flawless—and red
gold had been hammered into the veins lacing the stone ceilings, walls,
and floor. Pearls and silver provided accents. Occasionally, they passed a
screen partition carved entirely of jade.
Unlike before, she wore an elaborate headpiece of jadeComments: The jade connection was particularly interesting, as well as the emphasis on fine gems in Celbediel and on Bachel's fingers.
and leather that was black and polished to an oily sheen. Her dress was red
and, again, sewn from strips of knotted straps. Rubies and emeralds glinted
from the rings on her thumbs.
A side note: Dreamers love rings - Bachel wears many. Sarros, too, wore many rings:
Rings glittered on his fingers. (The Fulsome Feast, MURTAGH)Which makes me wonder about King Orrin:
Orrin accepted the news with an equanimity that unsettled her. Then he gripped the sill with both hands and returned to his study of the city. Adorning his fingers were four large rings - (The Price of Power, Inheritance)
Incense:
Eldest: At Celbediel, religious center of Tarnag
His next impression was of smell. Flowers and incense mixed their per-fumes into an aroma so ethereal, Eragon felt as if he could live on the scent alone.MURTAGH: At Nal Gorgoth
The chamber seemed part throne room and part inner sanctum. In its
center sat a brazier of hammered copper, ten feet across and laden with a bed
of smoldering coals. From it, smoke and incense—rich with the scent of
sage, pine, and cedar—thickened the air, although they could not obscure
the underlying taint of brimstone, which seemed stronger, more
concentrated there within the temple.
Feasts:
Eldest:
Before them were soups and stews filled with various tubers, roastedMURTAGH:
venison, long hot loaves of sourdough bread, and rows of honeycakes
dripped with raspberry preserve. In a bed of greens lay filleted trout gar-
nished with parsley, and on the side, pickled eel stared forlornly at an urn
of cheese, as if hoping to somehow escape back into a river. A swan sat
on each table, surrounded by a flock of stuffed partridges, geese, and
Ducks.
Mushrooms were everywhere: broiled in juicy strips, placed atop a
bird’s head like a bonnet, or carved in the shape of castles amid moats of
gravy. An incredible variety was on display, from puffy white mushrooms
the size of Eragon’s fist, to ones he could have mistaken for gnarled bark,
to delicate toadstools sliced neatly in half to showcase their blue flesh.
Then the centerpiece of the feast was revealed: a gigantic roasted boar,
glistening with sauce...
“Nagra,” whispered Orik. “Giant boar...
Then the observances came to an end, and the villagers fell to feasting.Tunnels: I could cite a lot of text here, but let's just recognize that both the Dwarves and Dreamers love tunnels and deep places. There are even dwarves called "deep dwellers" - this is quite the eerie title considering the cultists of Nal Gorgoth and their deep, deep caves and Oth Orum.
That, at least, Murtagh was familiar with. Great servings of food were
brought forth from the temple kitchens and from dwellings throughout Nal
Gorgoth. Boar meat and venison and mushrooms prepared in a dizzying
variety of dishes. Wine too, and mead, and bergenhed, and aspic, and loaves
of fresh-baked bread, and more besides. Pies, savory and sweet. Deep dishes
of creamy soup, wedges of hard and soft cheeses, berry tarts. All manner of
sumptuous food.
I'm going to leave you with an interesting quote from Inheritance, when Eragon and Arya are in the tunnels beneath Dras-Leona:
On the other side of the opening was a dark, heavily built chamber that reminded Eragon of the caves under Tronjheim - (Under Hill And Stone)Some of my upcoming theory posts:
- was Vrael a Dreamer?
- Who are the light-bringers?
2024.05.13 12:47 anujafood Best Food Color Brand in India
A birthday cake is more than just a delicious dessert; it's a centerpiece that embodies celebration and joy. Adding vibrant food colour from Anuja Food Colours, which is the best food color brand in India, to your birthday cake not only enhances its visual appeal but also adds an extra element of fun and excitement, perfect for marking a special occasion.
submitted by anujafood to u/anujafood [link] [comments]
2024.05.12 15:21 feoen My apistogramma agassizii fire red died unexpectedly. What did I do wrong?
This is my first tank, started in mid November 2023. The Apisto was one of the first fish I added to the tank as the centerpiece. It's a Fluval flex 15g live planted tank. It was living peacefully with 3 long-fin neon tetras, 3 zebra danios, a glass catfish, and a honey gourami.
The honey gourami was the most recent addition to the tank added a month ago to the day. The apisto did NOT like the honey gourami at first, and became extremely territorial in a way I had never seen. Apisto was whacking its tail against the plants and chasing the honey gourami. I rearranged the plants and the apisto re-established its territory and after that she and the honey gourami became friends: https://ibb.co/x5SS2bw
I do a partial (20%) water change every week or two and measure parameters before and after all water changes. I've had zero ammonia, zero nitrites, and nitrates are kept below 10 ppm. PH of the tank is usually 7.2. I keep the tank at about 78 degrees.
I did a water change last week, and I always use Seachem Prime to dechlorinate the water.
Right after the water change, one of my zebra danios laid a ton of eggs. Apisto was notoriously hungry and ate pretty much every single danio egg that was there.
Then, the next day, I didn't see the apisto. It was hiding in her castle. She was staying at the bottom of the tank, and wouldn't come up for food. Then yesterday she was laying sideways against the filter intake. I immediately took her out and put her into a hospital tank where she repeatedly was swimming "head down" then falling over to her side and breathing rapidly.
I put in an antibiotic, but found her dead this morning.
I have absolutely no idea what killed her. She's been living in my tank for 6 months (she was fully grown when I bought her). I have to assume it was one of three factors:
submitted by feoen to aquarium [link] [comments]
The honey gourami was the most recent addition to the tank added a month ago to the day. The apisto did NOT like the honey gourami at first, and became extremely territorial in a way I had never seen. Apisto was whacking its tail against the plants and chasing the honey gourami. I rearranged the plants and the apisto re-established its territory and after that she and the honey gourami became friends: https://ibb.co/x5SS2bw
I do a partial (20%) water change every week or two and measure parameters before and after all water changes. I've had zero ammonia, zero nitrites, and nitrates are kept below 10 ppm. PH of the tank is usually 7.2. I keep the tank at about 78 degrees.
I did a water change last week, and I always use Seachem Prime to dechlorinate the water.
Right after the water change, one of my zebra danios laid a ton of eggs. Apisto was notoriously hungry and ate pretty much every single danio egg that was there.
Then, the next day, I didn't see the apisto. It was hiding in her castle. She was staying at the bottom of the tank, and wouldn't come up for food. Then yesterday she was laying sideways against the filter intake. I immediately took her out and put her into a hospital tank where she repeatedly was swimming "head down" then falling over to her side and breathing rapidly.
I put in an antibiotic, but found her dead this morning.
I have absolutely no idea what killed her. She's been living in my tank for 6 months (she was fully grown when I bought her). I have to assume it was one of three factors:
- The water change somehow hurt her (even though all the other fish are happy as heck and doing amazing)
- The stress from having the honey gourami added a month ago caught up with her
- Maybe there's somehow a parasite in the zebra danios that was transmitted to the apisto when she ate the eggs?
2024.05.10 18:16 TraditionalBat7157 Takeaways from Charleston (5/8/24)
This was my first live Queens show. It was amazing. I just wanted to share a few takeaways.
Venue: Firefly Distillery (North Charleston, SC)
submitted by TraditionalBat7157 to qotsa [link] [comments]
Venue: Firefly Distillery (North Charleston, SC)
- Big, flat, open, oval-shaped field with food trucks. Stage was at one end of the field. We got a spot close to the stage, probably 10-15 people back from the rail.
- The stage wasn't very big, and the guys seemed a little cramped. You could still see everyone fine except Dean, who was tucked into the back. That seems to fit his personality and stage presence, though. Troy, Josh and Mikey moved around quite a bit. Jon was in a great spot on one side, angled with his left shoulder facing the crowd, so you could see him work.
- It was hot, but thankfully the sun went down after their first couple songs. Things cooled down as it got later into the night.
- There was a bigass dragonfly that kept flying above the crowd. The thing seriously had a wingspan of at least 6 inches. I think that's what spooked Royal Blood's drummer after it landed on his kit.
- We got there about 45-60 minutes before the show, and parking was a hassle. The nearby lots were full, but we ended up parking on the main street right outside the venue. I don't know if it was legal or not, but by the time we got there, a lot of people had started doing it. We didn't get towed or ticketed or anything.
- I would estimate 3,000+ people there, but likely more. I don't know what the capacity was. It seemed like the field was 2/3 to 3/4 full, though even closer to the front like we were, you still had room to move without touching anyone.
- There was plenty of room to get a good spot for the opening act, Royal Blood. There were several people who had already camped out at the rail, but we walked up about 10 minutes before they went on and were still 10-15 people back from the stage.
- We left to go to the bathroom one last time right after Royal Blood and were still able to make it back in time to easily reclaim our spots for QOTSA. We were probably there 15 minutes before they walked on stage. However, the field filled up QUICK after we got there. I turned around and couldn't see the end of the crowd behind me, so if we had waited much longer, we probably would have been much further back.
- Two mosh pits formed at different points in the show, one to left-of-center stage and another to the right. We were in-between both and weren't impacted by either, though some people near us got shoved around a few times. From what I saw, it never turned violent in either pit, just people bumping off each other.
- There was a shitload of weed. As soon as QOTSA hit the first note, I smelled it all night. I feel like this isn't news. Just confirmation of what you'd expect at a QOTSA show.
- Maybe a little before midway through the show, a group close to the stage started getting rowdy. Josh went into a rant about it, told some guy not to fight or he'd embarass him, and was able to defuse it. Looking at other posts from the show, it sounds like it had to do with people trying to squeeze their way up front.
- There wasn't a lot of dancing. Most of the crowd motion other than the pits was people nodding along in place.
- I didn't see any signs. Somebody made a large dice with song names on it that Josh had them throw on stage. People really just shouted when he asked for requests, and they ended up playing two (Millionaire and Lost Art).
- Incredible. They're as loud and tight as you would expect.
- My only real disappointment was with Josh's vocals. I don't know if the mix was favoring the bass and guitar lows or Jon's drumming, or if Josh's voice live just isn't as polished as it is in studio (how could it be?), but there were very few songs where it felt like the vocals were the centerpiece. He hit his falsetto plenty, though, so I lean more toward it being something with the mix or maybe even our proximity to the loud-ass speakers.
- All five guys are superior musicians. Josh introduced Jon as "probably the greatest drummer of all-time," and he lived up to that.
- Mikey Shoes is a madman. He will probably have serious neck issues later in life. If you were there, you know what I mean.
- I didn't know how much Dean actually contributed as a guitarist, but he had a lot of audible licks that cut through the mix. All the live shows I watched online before this don't highlight him a lot, but I'm sure he frees up Josh to do a lot more vocally and with his stage presence.
- Josh's banter was pretty funny. He was feeling pretty good.
- Carnavoyeur was incredible. Wasn't even really one of my favorite songs, but it is now.
- My God is The Sun. They opened with No One Knows and Do It Again, but MGITS brought the energy way up.
- Millionaire. This was a request, and in my opinion it was a high point (maybe THE high point) of the show.
- Make It Wit Chu. They had a lot of fun with this one, did some a capella crowd work and extended solos/duets. It probably went for ~8 minutes. Josh and Jon going HAM toward the end was a sight to behold.
- Song for the Dead. This was as good as you'd expect. Josh throwing up the devil horns right before it launched was chef's kiss for the show.
- "We're at a booze distillery in the middle of a fucking swamp, and it looks awesome."
- "Hahaha you fucking gave him the wrong guitar, you freak!" (Josh after the stagehand gave Troy the wrong guitar).
- "Now guys, you sing it so we can hear how rapey it sounds." (Josh during an extended Make It Wit Chu, just after he got the women in the crowd to sing the chorus).
- "You want me to roll this thing? Well what if it's a really shitty song, what are you gonna do?" (Josh looking at a large, homemade dice somebody threw on stage during song requests).
- "Life is hard. Life is fast. (someone in crowd: 'THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID.') Yes, that is what she said. Tell your mom I said hi, by the way. Only she was screaming it more than she was saying it."
- "I know you're drunk, and I know you only started drinking a few days ago, but it's not the moment to be a tough guy. This is about coming together. It's not about fighting. The truth is, whatever you're frustrated about, it doesn't matter. Don't be a dick to the people next to you." (Josh to somebody in the crowd who was, I guess, close to fighting).
2024.05.09 20:27 elisabethkramer What a wedding planner's wedding cost
I’m a wedding planner in Portland, Oregon, who had a wedding in 2019. At that point, I’d been planning weddings professionally for three years. I used that experience to help plan ours.
A few important details about the wedding budget breakdown below:
The ceremony was hosted in the living room of the house. After the ceremony, the caterer “flipped” the room into the reception space by setting up dinner tables and moving the ceremony chairs. After we ate, the caterer removed the tables and chairs and the living area became our dance floor area.
Before we hired the caterer, I made sure to ask if they would order, pick-up, set-up, and clean-up all rentals as it was important to me that this labor be done by someone who wasn’t a guest. (Though guests did end up helping straighten up the house before and after the wedding.)The venue is where I’ve seen the biggest raise in prices post-pandemic. It’s now closer to $4,500 for the same length of time over the same holiday.
We traveled to our venue the Wednesday before our wedding and picked up our flowers on our way out of town (the wedding was on Saturday). To keep the flowers fresh, I:
The number above also includes my rough guess for how much I spent on new makeup I bought especially for the wedding (but also used after the wedding, too).
This choice meant we had the photographer for two hours (vs. the more standard six to 12 hours people hire photographers for on a wedding day).
To make this work, we prioritized having the photographer on-site starting 30 minutes before for the ceremony and leaving once post-ceremony photos were done. This meant skipping a first look and instead seeing each other for the first time in our wedding clothes at the start of the ceremony.
The photographer was also not on-site for any photos of us getting ready or for any reception programming. Instead, if anybody wanted photos of us getting dressed, having dinner, doing toasts, dancing, and/or eating dessert, they took them with their phones. This worked very well for us! We don’t feel that we missed any moments.
I don’t know if the guest who paid for this vendor tipped them, which is why I didn’t include that information above.
Total: $9,861.34
Total including these three items: $11,399.78
submitted by elisabethkramer to Weddingsunder10k [link] [comments]
A few important details about the wedding budget breakdown below:
- My partner and I had 19 people (including the two of us) at our wedding. We opted to do this because a lower guest count is typically the most effective way to save a lot of money quickly. If “only” having 19 people at your wedding simply isn’t possible, don’t wander away just yet. Much of the below can be scaled to whatever your headcount is.
- It was important to my partner and I to also host an event related to our marriage where our friends could celebrate with us. We opted to host a “friend reception” a month after our wedding. I’ve included pricing for that below in an “optional” section alongside a few other items. If you include these items, are wedding cost above $10,000.
- We got married in November. This is considered the start of the slower season for many wedding vendors in my part of the world (Pacific Northwest), which helped lead to lower prices and better availability.
- This pricing is from 2019 and yes, prices are higher post-COVID. I’ve seen this change most in the pricing for the house where we got married (more below).
What my wedding cost
Venue: $3,057.32
This was for the ENTIRE HOLIDAY WEEKEND of our wedding (Thursday evening to Monday morning). We got married at a private home on the Oregon Coast.The ceremony was hosted in the living room of the house. After the ceremony, the caterer “flipped” the room into the reception space by setting up dinner tables and moving the ceremony chairs. After we ate, the caterer removed the tables and chairs and the living area became our dance floor area.
Before we hired the caterer, I made sure to ask if they would order, pick-up, set-up, and clean-up all rentals as it was important to me that this labor be done by someone who wasn’t a guest. (Though guests did end up helping straighten up the house before and after the wedding.)The venue is where I’ve seen the biggest raise in prices post-pandemic. It’s now closer to $4,500 for the same length of time over the same holiday.
Catering (including rentals and 20 percent tip): $3,314.64
This was our biggest line item because it was also our most important (we wanted really tasty food!). The catering order included:- a salad, roasted veggies, dinner rolls, roasted chicken, and a charcuterie and cheese display ($1,452)
- a keg of caterer-made apple cider ($79)
- plates, spoons, forks, glasses, gold Chivari chairs, wine glasses, white tablecloths, three folding tables, and gold napkins ($391.20)
- three staff members (a chef, a lead server, and a server; $840)
Dessert: $119.50
We ordered 10 ice cream pints from our favorite ice cream shop and had one of our guests pick this up on their way to the wedding.Decor: $51.95
For us, this meant a box of gold votives ($31.98, Amazon) and thank-you notes ($19.97, Amazon). A couple of guests also created a “light curtain” (i.e. a step-and-repeat frame with tulle and fairy lights) to hide the TV that was mounted on the wall in the room where we got married. I don’t have pricing for that but estimate it cost $25 to $35 to make; I didn’t include this number in the total.Dress: $1,050
This includes the (very minimal) alterations I needed.Dress accessories: $106.19
This was mainly cute hair stuff and four pairs of shoes for me (two I didn’t use and two I did).Favors: $64
For favors, we bought individual jars of locally made honey for people to use at dinner. The favors also served as place cards. Each jar had the name of a specific guest, as designed by the business where we bought the honey.Flowers: $385
We bought our flowers “à la carte,” which is an option many florists offer where you “just” buy the flowers you need. This works best if you don’t need extensive decor flowers and “only” want flowers you wear or carry.For us, that meant:- a bouquet for me ($140)
- a boutonnière for my partner ($10)
- three bouquets for our wedding party ($150)
- some lengths of eucalyptus and long-stem flowers to use as ceremony decor ($85)
We traveled to our venue the Wednesday before our wedding and picked up our flowers on our way out of town (the wedding was on Saturday). To keep the flowers fresh, I:
- told our florist the length of time between pick-up and the wedding so the florist could prioritize using flowers that have a longer shelf life, and
- we kept our flowers in a cool area (the garage of the rental home; could also have been a fridge if the weather had been warmer).
Hair and/or makeup: est. $150
I can’t find the actual cost but I did a one-hour tutorial with a makeup stylist and then did my own hair and makeup on the wedding day as did all of our wedding VIPs who use makeup and/or wanted to style their hair a certain way. I was very happy with the results!The number above also includes my rough guess for how much I spent on new makeup I bought especially for the wedding (but also used after the wedding, too).
Photographer: $375
We hired a photographer for their “elopement” package even though we weren’t technically eloping. (You can 100 percent do this as long as you’re honest with your vendors about your guest count, i.e. the main metric they use to decide if your event qualifies for any elopement pricing they offer.)This choice meant we had the photographer for two hours (vs. the more standard six to 12 hours people hire photographers for on a wedding day).
To make this work, we prioritized having the photographer on-site starting 30 minutes before for the ceremony and leaving once post-ceremony photos were done. This meant skipping a first look and instead seeing each other for the first time in our wedding clothes at the start of the ceremony.
The photographer was also not on-site for any photos of us getting ready or for any reception programming. Instead, if anybody wanted photos of us getting dressed, having dinner, doing toasts, dancing, and/or eating dessert, they took them with their phones. This worked very well for us! We don’t feel that we missed any moments.
I don’t know if the guest who paid for this vendor tipped them, which is why I didn’t include that information above.
Suit: $150
My partner bought a suit at H&M and had it tailored. This price includes those alterations.Wedding rings: $899
We elected to make our own wedding bands with a local metalsmith who offers this option. This price included the half-day workshop where we made our rings as well as all materials. We had very simple designs and used the most affordable gold with no stones or engraving. This price does not include my engagement ring.Wedding license: $61.20
I’m fairly sure this includes us electing to buy three certified copies of the license for our own records.Vow writing workshop: $77.54
This was a fun wedding thing I knew about through my job that we did with a professional officiant.Total: $9,861.34
Additional add-ons
Premarital counseling: $1,000
It was challenging to find a secular option for premarital counseling but find it we did! This was three to five visits (can’t remember the exact number) with a coach who helped us articulate what we loved about our relationship and wanted to carry into our marriage.Honeymoon: $288.44
Our honeymoon was two days at a hotel in the town where we got married. This was the cost of the hotel.Friend reception: $250
We rented the backroom of a local pizza place for four hours at $250. This included pizza, salad, and non-alcoholic drinks (which we paid for) and bartender service (our guests bought their own alcoholic drinks at a bar that was in the same room).Total including these three items: $11,399.78
Common wedding vendor services that I did NOT hire:
Alcohol
Two of our guests gifted us wine for the wedding as their gift to us (very generous, I know). We didn’t serve beer or hard liquor. The caterer provided apple cider (our non-alcoholic option in addition to water and whatever soft drinks we had from the rest of the weekend).Ceremony and/or reception music and A/V
For the ceremony, we downloaded our processional and recessional songs onto a phone and had a guest play it through a Bluetooth speaker. For the reception, we downloaded a wedding dance playlist and played it off our phone to the speaker. We didn’t use a mic for the officiant or for toasts (a benefit of having a small group, all indoors).Invites and other paper goods
We combined a save-the-date and invite into one Paperless Post Flyer. We used a free option so this cost $0. We didn’t have any programs and our caterer printed menus for us as part of their fee.Officiant
One of our guests was our officiant. We didn’t pay him.Transportation
We got to the venue using personal vehicles and didn’t travel anywhere outside of the house for the wedding so we didn’t need to pay for transportation on the wedding day.Videographer
We thought about it but ultimately decided this wasn’t for us.Wedding coordinator or planner
Perhaps ironically given what I do for a living, I didn’t hire a coordinator or planner. Do I regret this? A little. It would have been nice to have someone who wasn’t a guest help the caterer with set-up and clean-up as well as manage things like the ceremony and photos.2024.05.08 07:08 bakeryarapina Making Memories with 1st Birthday Cakes: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Cake for Your Little One
The first birthday of your children will be one of the most essential occasions ever in your life, so I am sure you want to make it memorable for your dearest one. What about tasty and beautiful cake? Deciding which cake could be the centerpiece of a one-year-old's party can undeniably be a rather scary challenge. Yet, you can turn the process into a delightful adventure with some organization and research. In this guide, we will talk about some skips and sounds that you can use to help you select the right cake for your child.
In short, you may select a 1st Birthday Cakes for your child that will bring you some of the most pleasant or vital memories with just the right plan or imagination. With your child's interests and dietary restrictions and providing a quality bakery as an option, the cake can not only contain delicious ingredients but also meet your child's safety and hygiene standards. Let the cake-maker know about your schedule and develop an original design to make it a unique cake for the baddie.
submitted by bakeryarapina to u/bakeryarapina [link] [comments]
- Imagine their favorite things, stuff they may want to try and learn and so on.
- Consider dietary restrictions
- A reputable bakery is the one to prefer.
- Order in advance
- Put some effort into creating a nice-looking logo.
In short, you may select a 1st Birthday Cakes for your child that will bring you some of the most pleasant or vital memories with just the right plan or imagination. With your child's interests and dietary restrictions and providing a quality bakery as an option, the cake can not only contain delicious ingredients but also meet your child's safety and hygiene standards. Let the cake-maker know about your schedule and develop an original design to make it a unique cake for the baddie.
2024.05.08 00:53 AlexRogansBeta Blind Taste Test of Local Donuts
 | Hello Victoria, submitted by AlexRogansBeta to VictoriaBC [link] [comments] Here's another dispatch from the Victorian Society for the Scientific Study of Food (VSSSF). We're simply a group of friends who periodically get together to eat delicious things and needlessly rank them. It is "scientific" inasmuch as we use rigorous methods to randomize, double-blind, and then rank the foods. But these results are not replicable, nor should they be considered representative. It's just for fun and a good way to hype up our local food producers. On May 5th, 10 adults in their 30s gathered to determine which donut-specific bakery in the GVA makes the best donuts. Rivalries in this category are hotly contested amongst Victorians. Some people (like me) swear by Empire. Some people swear by Yonni's. But there are also new entrants in the market: Doughnut Vault, Frickin' Delights, and Rhino. Rather than arguing about it, we put it to the test! METHODSBakeries in No Particular Order Doughnut Vault is a really small operation, functioning as a "pop-up shop" hosted out of the Public Market. Frickin' Delights is a similarly small operation that opened up on the corner of Broad and Yates. They don't have a working webpage at the time of writing, but here's their Facebook page. Empire Donuts has been a longtime staple in the city. They have a location in Cook Street Village, as well as in the Yates Street Arcade. Yonni's is perhaps the longest running specialty donut shop in the city. They sell out of Discovery Café locations. Rhino is a fresh import from Tofino. They're recently opened up a location in Langford. There are, of course, other bakeries across the GVA that sell donuts. The intent with this double-blind taste test was to focus on donut specialty shops: places that essentially only make donuts. Or, who focus their bakery's identity on donuts. Rhino was probably the only "stretch" in that sense, since they also have other baked goods on offer. But, they really hype their donuts as a centerpiece to their baked offerings. So, we included them. Also, as a sort of aside, an intent of all VSSSF reports is to hype local food joints! Showcasing new entrants to the market, like Rhino, falls squarely within the values of the VSSSF. Categories We originally intended to have categories of donuts to rank. We envisioned 4 categories as Basic Glazed, Chocolate, Fritter, and Wild Card. The Basic Glazed category would have ideally included… well, a basic glazed donut with no icing, frills, or fluff. As it turned out, many of these donut places simply didn't offer such a thing. One place I called was adamant that "all our donuts are glazed" and that they don't use icing. The nuance of this statement was lost on me, and looking at all their donuts, they all had icing on them from where I am sitting. Alternatively, if a bakery did have a glazed donut, it was maybe a sour cream glazed. Which, we all know, is wildly different than an old fashioned glazed, for example. In the end, the concept of this category necessarily morphed into "Basic Glazed/Vanilla ". And even at that, it was really a struggle to find a donut from each of the five locations that fit into this category. Even more of a struggle when they changed the order on me at the last minute... In the end, here are the five donuts that were tested in this category: Doughnut Vault: Vanilla Bean Glazed Frickin' Delights: Strawberry Dunkaroo* Empire: Yuzu Vanilla Yonni's: Sour Cream Glazed Rhino: Vanilla Sprinkle** *The order I made from Frickin' Delights was for "Vanilla Birthday Cake". Upon arrival to pick up the order on the morning of the event I noticed that what was in my box looked an awful lot like the Strawberry Dunkaroos on display. I inquired, and was told that they were "basically the same thing with artificial strawberry flavouring added". It was too late to re-jig all the categories to make this fit, so we just ran with it. ** The Rhino Vanilla Sprinkle was the only "Basic" donut on offer, but it was gluten free, which had an enormous effect on the results. The Chocolate category was similarly challenging to create. Ideally, we wanted it to only be a basic donut with a chocolate dip. But not all places offered a basic chocolate dip donut. In the end, we modified this category to be "Chocolate Centric". Meaning, it was a donut that was structured around its chocolate-ness. We tested: Doughnut Vault: Chocolate Dip Frickin' Delights: Chocolate Strawberry Dip Empire: Chocolate Sprinkle Yonni's: Chocolate Dip Ring Rhino: Triple Chocolate The "Fritter" category is pretty straightforward, and ended up being pretty straightforward. The only hiccup, so to speak, was that Frickin' Delights doesn't have a fritter on offer. So, only four bakeries had showings in this category. Doughnut Vault: Bourbon Apple Blondie Empire: Apple Yonni's: Maple Apple Rhino: Apple Then, since each bakery really specializes in doing wild donut flavours that had no consistency across locations, we opted for a fourth "wild card" category. This category was intended to highlight the wacky and the creative. Selecting one wacky and creative donut from each bakery would have been impossible, and would have done each bakery a disservice. Since, that's where they put all their love in. So, this category was double the size of the other categories, featuring two donuts from each location. Doughnut Vault: Pear Ginger White Chocolate & Persian Ice Cream Frickin' Delights: Brown Butter Sea Salt & Blackberry Lemonade Empire: Tajin Peach & Prickly Pear Margarita Yonni's: Honey Lemon Cruller & Guava Cheesecake Rhino: Maple Bacon & Sour Cream Glazed*** *** Readers will note that there is a Sour Cream Glazed from Yonni's in the "Basic Glaze/Vanilla" category, and a Sour Cream Glazed from Rhino in the "Wild Card" category. Despite the names, these are fundamentally different donuts. The Sour Cream Glazed from Yonni's is a sour cream donut with regular glaze. The Sour Cream Glazed from Rhino was a regular donut with a sour, creamy icing. That, or they gave me the wrong donut in the order. Sampling Strategy Donuts were cut into quarters and randomized using little colour-coded toothpick flags with numbers written on them. Each colour of flag corresponded to a category. For example, all the blue flags indicated the "Chocolate-Centric" category. Then, the numbers represented the individual donut and the bakery it came from. However, the numbers were randomized within each category. For example, Blue 2 might have been from Rhino, but Purple 2 might have been from Yonni's. In this way, eaters were mostly unable to keep track of which donut came from which bakery. There were some exceptions. Our most fervent donut eaters (myself included) had eaten the Yonni's fritter enough to know which it was right away. The donuts from Frickin' Delights were all easy to identify owing to their size. And Doughnut Vault had a particular way of "plating" their donuts with garnishes that it was easy to identify them, too. However, since none of my participants had ever had a donut from Frickin' Delights or Doughnut Vault before (myself included) those details were only known to myself. Since, I did all the ordering, cutting, and flag randomizing. Meaning, for the most part, my participants really were blind to the origin of each donut. Each donut was ranked as "Good", "Better", and "Best", since there's no such thing as a bad donut (though, some participants have since argued that yes, some of the donuts were bad; see below). Participants needed to eat one piece of each donut, to rank them on a worksheet, and then deposit the flag into a cup labelled "Good", "Better", or "Best". For the categories "Basic Glazed/Vanilla", "Chocolate-Centric", and "Fritter", participates were required to indicate one "Best" in each category. They were also required to indicate at least one "Better" in each category. Though, they had the option to allocate up to two donuts to the "Better" rank. The remainder had to go into "Good". Since the "Wild Card" category was doubly large, these requirements were scaled to match. Participants were required to identify two "Best" donuts for this category, a minimum of two and a max of four "Better" donuts, and the rest had to be ranked as "Good". The scoring was ranked to give extra weight to the "Best" category. "Best" was awarded 5 points. "Better" was awarded 3 points, and "Good" was awarded 1 point. This was done to ensure that people actually put a lot of thought into which donut they ranked as "Best". Since, that one vote could be worth nearly as many points as all their other votes combined depending on how many "Better" rankings they gave out. RESULTSPer Donut, Per Category These results represent the donut that received the highest scores in each category. According to our results, the best "Basic Glazed/Vanilla" donut was the Yuzu Vanilla from Empire (29 pts). The runner up was the Vanilla Bean from Doughnut Vault (21 pts). The best "Chocolate-Centric" donut was the Triple Chocolate from Rhino (25 pts). The runner up was the Chocolate Dip from Doughnut Vault (19pts). The best "Fritter" was Yonni's Maple Apple Fritter (34 pts). The runner up was the Bourbon Apple Blondie from Doughnut Vault (30 pts). The best "Wild Card" was the Maple Bacon from Rhino (28 pts), and the very close runner up was Empire's Tajin Peach (27 pts). Highest Scoring Bakery Overall The bakery that had the highest overall score was Rhino (115 pts), followed closely by Empire (112 pts). Then there was a bit of a gap after which Doughnut Vault (101 pts) and Yonni's (96 pts) scored quite closely. Frickin' Delights (68 pts) scored quite poorly in the aggregate because they didn't have a Fritter. Highest Scoring Bakery Excluding "Fritter" Removing the "Fritter" category, the bakery that had the highest overall score was still Rhino (96 pts) , but only by one point. Empire came in close second (95 pts). Then there's a bit of a jump, and Doughnut Vault (71 pts), Frickin' Delights (68 pts), and Yonni's (62 pts) all came in relatively close to each other. Top "Better" vs "Best" Empire Donuts had the most "Better" points at 51, while only having 45 points in the "Best" rank. Meanwhile, Rhino had the most "Best" points at 65, but had less "Better" points at only 30. Highest Scoring Donut The donut that had the highest score overall was the Maple Apple Fritter from Yonni's with 34 points (3 votes for "Good", 2 votes for "Better", 5 votes for "Best"). DISCUSSIONEating 1/4 of 24 donuts (totaling 6 whole donuts/fritters) proved to be too much. Some of our participants found that after eating the equivalent of 4 or 5 donuts, they were feeling… not great, and needed to stop. As a result, we only have partial data in each category. Everyone picked which category they would begin with individually. As a result, 5 out of 50 votes were missing from "Basic Glaze/Vanilla"; 15 out of 50 votes were missing from "Chocolate-Centric"; 2 out of 40 votes were missing from "Fritter; and 18 out of 100 votes were missing from "Wild Card". It also meant that there were diminishing returns on taste as we went along. From my own perspective, the category I did last was much harder to judge because I was simply burnt out on sugar. Though, it made the "Best" ones easier to identify because at that point, if something really did stand out in terms of flavour, it really stood out. Since there were missing votes from each category, I am not stressing about those missing votes. Though I am sure some fancy math could be used to compensate, this was all just for fun anyways. But, readers should keep in mind that the most disproportionately "absent" category was "Chocolate-Centric". As people began trying the different categories at different times, word got out that the Chocolate-Centric category was generally disliked, which meant that when people who had left that category for last finally got to it, a few simply opted not to try since they were already feeling ill. Speaking to that category, a large majority of those who did do the Chocolate-Centric category voiced that they really wished there was a "Bad" option in that category. And several (myself included) voiced the opinion that they had arbitrarily given one the "Best" rank simply because it was required by our methods. This category was essentially universally disliked, and the results from this category are probably the most disputable. Yonni's overall score was quite good until you accounted for the Fritter. The Fritter's score of 34 points accounted for 35% of Yonni's total aggregate. Indicating that while Yonni's sells good donuts, their standout really is the fritter. Their overall score was also dragged down by the Cruller (see below). So, they had both a standout donut (Fritter) and downer donut (Cruller) that really make their results wonky. Empire didn't have the highest "Best" score, but they had the highest "Better" score. Given that our scoring system required a lot of "Better" votes to accumulate as much as the "Best" rank, this strongly indicates that Empire's donuts were the most liked generally. They might not have had the standout donut in each category, but they had the broadest general appeal. Outside of Rhino's standout donuts like the Maple Bacon and Sour Cream Glazed, they didn't shine. Those specific donuts from them really stood out to nearly everyone, giving them high scores in their categories. But in other Categories, Rhino didn't really do exceptionally well. Second last in the "Basic Glaze/Vanilla" and 2nd last in the Fritter. For the Basic Glaze/Vanilla, however, it should be noted (again) that the Vanilla Sprinkle was gluten free, and that was obvious in the results. Time played a huge factor in this taste test, and it was something we simply couldn't control for in a single event. Everyone knows that the best donut is a fresh donut. However, since Doughnut Vault didn't even open until 11AM, gathering all the donuts together and preparing them (cutting/placing flags) meant that we didn’t start the event until 1:30PM. By then, some of the donuts had been out of the oven and fridge for many hours. We also hosted the event at an open-air seaside location, meaning that as the eating went on (and it lasted for roughly 2 hours), the donuts got more and more stale. I suppose that this "time factor" was controlled for in the sense that they were all degraded in terms of freshness by the time we got around to eating them. But, it had an inordinate effect on those denser donuts which ended up being quite chewy less fresh they were. This was particularly noticeable in the Fritter category. These already dense, chewy donuts were doubly dense and chewy. Still tasty, though! Knowing these donuts a bit, I noted that the donut which deteriorated the most dramatically was Yonni's Cruller. I usually love their Cruller, but after sitting out for several hours the Cruller was really quite bad. If you know anything about Crullers, this makes sense. The ones that survived the time factor the best appeared to be the cake-based donuts. Namely, those from Frickin' Delights and several from Doughnut Vault. They held their texture well, given the conditions. Doughnut Vault won the prize for the prettiest donuts, in my opinion. The "Persian Ice Cream", for example, actually had chopped pistachio and dried rose petals on it. And all their donuts had a flashy garnish. In fact, some of the names were a bit misleading given that one of the flavours appeared to mostly (only?) be present in the garnish. For example, the Bourbon Apple Blondie Fritter tasted like a pretty standard apple fritter with some bourbon in there, and the "Blondie" came from a chunk of blondie brownie on top; the Pear Ginger White Chocolate had a hunk of white chocolate fudge on top, with minimal (if any?) notes of white chocolate in the donut itself. In the "Best" rank for "Wild Cards", there were some obvious standouts that each bakery should be quite proud of. While I already highlighted Rhino's Maple Bacon and Sour Cream Glazed, Frickin' Delights' Brown Butter Sea Salt & Blackberry Lemonade scored quite competitively, as did Empire's Tajin Peach & Prickly Pear Margarita donuts. The Tajin Peach really was something fun, being the only "spicy" donut on offer. Many people voiced struggling whether to put it in the "Best" or "Better" rank. CONCLUSIONWhich is all to say, Vitoria has some crazy delicious donuts out there! All these bakeries are killing it, and it is awesome to see some much innovation and creativity in this "food group". May this inspire everyone to go out and eat donuts for weeks, support local bakers, and explore Victora food more generally. Here's some pictures! https://preview.redd.it/sgbwcvu833zc1.jpg?width=653&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=11a93607681ddfb47b7918f8adae74249e26a261 https://preview.redd.it/ppq11qt833zc1.jpg?width=1280&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4c5ca6d6719fb746cbeddeb33a274b012ad54813 FOR SCIENCE! |
2024.05.07 20:08 iamkingsleyf 22 Thanksgiving Foods That Start With R
In the United States, Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks for all the good things in our lives.
We gather with family and friends, enjoy a big meal, and maybe watch football. But what about the food?
What are some of the best dishes to enjoy on Thanksgiving? If you’re looking for some Thanksgiving foods that start with R, here are a few of our favorites:
Roasting potatoes is a quick and easy way to create a delicious side dish or snack. And since potatoes are such a versatile food, they can be roasted in various ways to suit any taste.
So what are the best techniques for roasting potatoes? We've got a few tips to help you get started.
First, you'll want to choose the right type of potato. Second, you'll need to preheat your oven and prepare your baking sheet.
And finally, you'll want to season your potatoes before roasting. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to making the perfect roasted potatoes. So go ahead and give it a try!
That's right - red wine can be used as an ingredient in your cooking to add depth and flavor to your dishes.
So how does it work? When red wine is cooked, the tannins and other compounds are broken down, which helps release the flavor compounds in the wine. This can add a complex and robust flavor to your food.
If you're interested in trying it, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you'll want to use a dry red wine for cooking.
This means avoiding sweet wines like Port or Sherry. Second, you'll want to cook with a red wine you enjoy drinking.
Ravioli is made by rolling out a thin dough sheet and cutting it into small squares. Each square is filled with a small amount of filling, such as cheese or meat. The ravioli are then cooked in boiling water until it is tender.
There are many different types of ravioli, and the fillings can vary depending on the region where it is made.
Some of the most popular ravioli fillings in Italy include cheese, spinach, and meat. In the United States, ravioli is often made with various types of meat.
It can be served as a side dish or as a main course and is often served with rice or bread.
Ratatouille is a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for summertime. It is light and refreshing but still filling and satisfying.
Plus, it is easy to make - you only need a little time and some basic ingredients.
We highly recommend giving ratatouille a shot if you're looking for a new dish to try this summer. It's sure to become a new favorite in your household.
They are an excellent source of Vitamin C and fiber, and they also contain a compound called ellagitannins, which have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
There are many different ways to enjoy raspberries. You can eat them on their own, add them to a smoothie or yogurt, or use them in baking.
Raspberries can also be made into jam, jelly, or syrup. If you are interested in growing your own raspberries, they can be grown in most areas of the country.
Raspberries are generally easy to care for and can be harvested from June to October.
Rarebit is thought to have originated in Wales, and the name is derived from the Welsh word for cheese, "caws pobi.
The dish became popular in England in the 18th century, and there are many different regional variations of it.
Today, rarebit is enjoyed worldwide and can be easily made at home with just a few ingredients.
If you're looking for Thanksgiving foods that start with r a new recipe to try, give rarebit a try - you'll be glad you did!
Rapini is a nutrient-rich vegetable that is high in vitamins A, C, and K. It also contains calcium, iron, and magnesium.
Rapini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in various dishes. It can be sautéed, stir-fried, or used in soup.
It pairs well with other vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Rapini can also be eaten raw, in salads or sandwiches.
Rapini is a great option if you're looking for a nutrient-rich vegetable to add to your diet. It is versatile, easy to prepare, and has various health benefits as thanksgiving foods that start with r.
Ramen is a relatively simple dish to make, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make a delicious bowl of noodles.
First, the noodles should be cooked al dente, as they will continue to cook in the broth.
Second, the broth should be rich and flavorful, and third, the toppings should be fresh and complementary to the broth.
You can easily make a delicious bowl of ramen at home with a few simple tips. So why not try it next time you're ready for hearty and comforting thanksgiving foods that start with r?
The most common vegetables in raita are tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Other vegetables that are sometimes used include peas, potatoes, and carrots. Raita can also be made with fruit, such as mangoes or bananas.
The yogurt in raita helps to cool and refresh the palate, while the spices add flavor and depth. Raita is a simple dish to make, but it can be a great addition to any meal.
They can also help to prevent certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure and anemia.
Many different types of raisins thanksgiving Foods that start with r, including Thompson Seedless, Black Corinth, and Muscat. Raisins can be used in various recipes, including cakes, cookies, and trail mix.
Radishes are a good source of vitamins C and B6 and potassium and magnesium. They also contain antioxidants that can help protect against certain diseases.
Radishes can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled. They can also be used in various recipes, such as roasted radish dishes, stir-fries, or soups.
Red kitten spinach is a good source of several nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
It also contains a compound called nitrates, which has been shown to improve blood flow and help reduce blood pressure.
So if you're looking for nutritious and delicious Thanksgiving Foods that start with r to add color to your diet, try red kitten spinach!
Rice is a grain that is cultivated in many different parts of the world. It is a versatile grain that can be used in various dishes.
Rice can be cooked in different ways, such as boiled, steamed, or baked. It can also be eaten raw.
There are many benefits to eating rice. Rice is a good source of complex carbohydrates, which are an important part of a healthy diet.
It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. Rice is low in fat and calories, and it is a good source of fiber.
However, with a little planning and some simple tips, you can roast a delicious turkey that will impress your family and friends.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing your turkey thanksgiving foods that start with r:
It is a hearty grain that is high in fiber and protein, making it a popular choice for those looking for a nutritious option.
Rye is also known for its distinct flavor, which has been described as earthy and nutty. Rye is a versatile grain that can be used in various recipes.
It can be cooked and eaten as porridge or used as flour for baking. Rye bread is a popular option, as it is hearty and filling.
Rye can also be used in soups, stews, and casseroles. If you are looking for new grain thanksgiving Foods that start with r to add to your diet, consider rye.
With its distinct flavor and nutritional value, it is sure to become a favorite in no time.
This potato has brown skin and white flesh. It is a popular choice for baking, frying, and mashed potatoes.
Regarding nutrition, the Russet potato is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It is also a good source of fiber. This potato can be a healthy addition to any diet.
The Russet potato is a good choice if you are looking for a versatile potato that can be used in many different dishes.
This potato has brown skin and white flesh. It is a popular choice for baking, frying, and mashed potatoes.
Risotto is usually made with short-grain rice, such as Arborio or Carnaroli. The rice is cooked in broth until it is creamy and tender.
Risotto can be made with different kinds of broth, such as chicken, beef, or vegetable.
There are many different ways to make risotto, and it can be flavored with different ingredients, such as cheese, vegetables, or seafood. Risotto is a versatile dish that can be made to suit any taste.
While the Reuben sandwich is a delicious and classic sandwich, it's also a bit of a mystery. The origin of the sandwich is unknown, but there are several theories.
One theory suggests that the sandwich was invented by a Jewish deli owner in New York City in the early 1900s.
Another theory suggests that a Nebraska man in the 1920s invented the sandwich.
Whatever the sandwich's origin, one thing is for sure - the Reuben sandwich is a delicious and iconic sandwich that has stood the test of time.
Reuben sandwich is the best If you're looking for a delicious and hearty sandwich, thanksgiving Foods that start with r.
Rigatoni pasta is typically ridged on one side and smooth on the other. Rigatoni pasta is traditionally used in Italian dishes such as "allaarbonara" and "al pesto.
Rigatoni can also be used in various other dishes, such as pasta salads, soups, and casseroles.
Rigatoni is a great option if you're looking for hearty and filling thanksgiving Foods that start with r meal.
It pairs well with various sauces and can be made ahead of time, making it a great meal for busy weeknights.
In sweet dishes, ricotta is often used as a filling for desserts such as cannoli and cheesecake.
It can also be used as a topping for pancakes or waffles. Savory dishes such as lasagna and stuffed shells also often include ricotta cheese.
Ricotta cheese is high in protein and calcium and is a good source of vitamins A and B12. It is also low in fat and sodium.
Ricotta cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in various dishes.
It is made with just a few simple ingredients - rice, milk, sugar, and spices - and can be easily adapted to fit any Dietary restriction.
While rice pudding is traditionally made with white rice, you can also use brown rice, wild rice, or even sushi rice.
The type of milk you use is also up to you. While many people use cow's milk, you can also use almond milk, coconut milk, or other non-dairy milk.
Rice pudding is a versatile and delicious dish that everyone can enjoy. So next time you're looking for a comforting dessert, give rice pudding a try.
This gives the wine a unique flavor that is often described as piney or resin-like.
Retsina is typically made with the native Greek grape varieties Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Rhoditis; it can also be made with other grape varieties.
Retsina is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed with various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables and traditional Greek dishes such as Souvlaki and Gyro.
Retsina can also be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif or after-dinner drink. So if you're looking for a unique wine to try, be sure to give Retsina a try.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our blog has helped a list of varieties of Thanksgiving foods, starting with R.
While there are many other delicious Thanksgiving dishes, these are some of the most popular and iconic in our blog post.
So if you're looking for a great Thanksgiving meal, be sure to include some of these delicious thanksgiving foods that start with "R" dishes.
submitted by iamkingsleyf to u/iamkingsleyf [link] [comments]
We gather with family and friends, enjoy a big meal, and maybe watch football. But what about the food?
What are some of the best dishes to enjoy on Thanksgiving? If you’re looking for some Thanksgiving foods that start with R, here are a few of our favorites:
1. Roasted Potatoes
Roasted potatoes are the first on our list of thanksgiving Foods that start with r. There are many different ways to cook potatoes, but one of the most popular methods is to roast them.Roasting potatoes is a quick and easy way to create a delicious side dish or snack. And since potatoes are such a versatile food, they can be roasted in various ways to suit any taste.
So what are the best techniques for roasting potatoes? We've got a few tips to help you get started.
First, you'll want to choose the right type of potato. Second, you'll need to preheat your oven and prepare your baking sheet.
And finally, you'll want to season your potatoes before roasting. With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to making the perfect roasted potatoes. So go ahead and give it a try!
2. Red Wine
Red wine is also one of the Thanksgiving Foods that start with r. It is often considered a sophisticated drink to be enjoyed with a meal. But did you know that red wine can actually enhance the flavor of your food?That's right - red wine can be used as an ingredient in your cooking to add depth and flavor to your dishes.
So how does it work? When red wine is cooked, the tannins and other compounds are broken down, which helps release the flavor compounds in the wine. This can add a complex and robust flavor to your food.
If you're interested in trying it, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you'll want to use a dry red wine for cooking.
This means avoiding sweet wines like Port or Sherry. Second, you'll want to cook with a red wine you enjoy drinking.
3. Ravioli
Ravioli is a type of pasta that has been around for centuries. The first mention of ravioli dates back to the 14th century, and it is believed that pasta was invented in Italy.Ravioli is made by rolling out a thin dough sheet and cutting it into small squares. Each square is filled with a small amount of filling, such as cheese or meat. The ravioli are then cooked in boiling water until it is tender.
There are many different types of ravioli, and the fillings can vary depending on the region where it is made.
Some of the most popular ravioli fillings in Italy include cheese, spinach, and meat. In the United States, ravioli is often made with various types of meat.
4. Ratatouille
Ratatouille is a French dish that typically consists of eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, tomato, and garlic, all cooked in olive oil.It can be served as a side dish or as a main course and is often served with rice or bread.
Ratatouille is a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for summertime. It is light and refreshing but still filling and satisfying.
Plus, it is easy to make - you only need a little time and some basic ingredients.
We highly recommend giving ratatouille a shot if you're looking for a new dish to try this summer. It's sure to become a new favorite in your household.
5. Raspberries
Raspberries are next on our list of thanksgiving Foods that start with r. It is a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed fresh, frozen, or canned.They are an excellent source of Vitamin C and fiber, and they also contain a compound called ellagitannins, which have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
There are many different ways to enjoy raspberries. You can eat them on their own, add them to a smoothie or yogurt, or use them in baking.
Raspberries can also be made into jam, jelly, or syrup. If you are interested in growing your own raspberries, they can be grown in most areas of the country.
Raspberries are generally easy to care for and can be harvested from June to October.
6. Rarebit
Rarebit is a quick and easy dish that is perfect for a light lunch or snack. It is typically made with cheese, beer, or ale and is served on toast.Rarebit is thought to have originated in Wales, and the name is derived from the Welsh word for cheese, "caws pobi.
The dish became popular in England in the 18th century, and there are many different regional variations of it.
Today, rarebit is enjoyed worldwide and can be easily made at home with just a few ingredients.
If you're looking for Thanksgiving foods that start with r a new recipe to try, give rarebit a try - you'll be glad you did!
7. Rapini
Rapini, also known as broccoli rabe, is a leafy green vegetable with small clusters of green flowers. It is related to the turnip and has a slightly bitter taste.Rapini is a nutrient-rich vegetable that is high in vitamins A, C, and K. It also contains calcium, iron, and magnesium.
Rapini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in various dishes. It can be sautéed, stir-fried, or used in soup.
It pairs well with other vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Rapini can also be eaten raw, in salads or sandwiches.
Rapini is a great option if you're looking for a nutrient-rich vegetable to add to your diet. It is versatile, easy to prepare, and has various health benefits as thanksgiving foods that start with r.
8. Ramen
Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup dish that has recently gained popularity. It typically consists of wheat noodles in a broth made from pork, chicken, or beef and is often topped with assorted vegetables and meats.Ramen is a relatively simple dish to make, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make a delicious bowl of noodles.
First, the noodles should be cooked al dente, as they will continue to cook in the broth.
Second, the broth should be rich and flavorful, and third, the toppings should be fresh and complementary to the broth.
You can easily make a delicious bowl of ramen at home with a few simple tips. So why not try it next time you're ready for hearty and comforting thanksgiving foods that start with r?
9. Raita
Raita is a popular Indian dish with yogurt, vegetables, and spices. It is often served as a side dish or a condiment and can be made with various vegetables.The most common vegetables in raita are tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Other vegetables that are sometimes used include peas, potatoes, and carrots. Raita can also be made with fruit, such as mangoes or bananas.
The yogurt in raita helps to cool and refresh the palate, while the spices add flavor and depth. Raita is a simple dish to make, but it can be a great addition to any meal.
10. Raisins
A raisin is a dried grape. Raisins are produced in many regions of the world and can be eaten either fresh or dried. Raisins are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and fiber.They can also help to prevent certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure and anemia.
Many different types of raisins thanksgiving Foods that start with r, including Thompson Seedless, Black Corinth, and Muscat. Raisins can be used in various recipes, including cakes, cookies, and trail mix.
11. Radish
Radishes are a type of root vegetable that are typically red, white, or pink in color. They have a crisp texture and a slightly spicy flavor and are often used in salads or as garnish.Radishes are a good source of vitamins C and B6 and potassium and magnesium. They also contain antioxidants that can help protect against certain diseases.
Radishes can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled. They can also be used in various recipes, such as roasted radish dishes, stir-fries, or soups.
12. Red Kitten Spinach
Red kitten spinach is a type of baby spinach that is characterized by its deep red leaves. It is a popular ingredient in salads and smoothies and is grown in many countries worldwide.Red kitten spinach is a good source of several nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
It also contains a compound called nitrates, which has been shown to improve blood flow and help reduce blood pressure.
So if you're looking for nutritious and delicious Thanksgiving Foods that start with r to add color to your diet, try red kitten spinach!
13. Rice
Rice is next on our list of thanksgiving Foods that start with r. It is a food that is consumed by millions of people around the world daily. It is a staple in many cultures and has been a part of the human diet for centuries.Rice is a grain that is cultivated in many different parts of the world. It is a versatile grain that can be used in various dishes.
Rice can be cooked in different ways, such as boiled, steamed, or baked. It can also be eaten raw.
There are many benefits to eating rice. Rice is a good source of complex carbohydrates, which are an important part of a healthy diet.
It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. Rice is low in fat and calories, and it is a good source of fiber.
14. Roasted Turkey
A classic roasted turkey is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table, but it can also be a bit daunting to prepare.However, with a little planning and some simple tips, you can roast a delicious turkey that will impress your family and friends.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing your turkey thanksgiving foods that start with r:
- Choose the right size turkey. A good rule of thumb is to allow 1 pound of turkey per person.
- Make sure your turkey is thawed. A frozen turkey will take much longer to cook and may not roast evenly.
- Season your turkey with a simple rub of salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Place your turkey in a roasting pan breast side up.
- Roast your turkey at a moderate temperature, 325-350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Use a meat
15. Rye
Rye is a cereal grain that is most commonly used to produce bread and alcohol.It is a hearty grain that is high in fiber and protein, making it a popular choice for those looking for a nutritious option.
Rye is also known for its distinct flavor, which has been described as earthy and nutty. Rye is a versatile grain that can be used in various recipes.
It can be cooked and eaten as porridge or used as flour for baking. Rye bread is a popular option, as it is hearty and filling.
Rye can also be used in soups, stews, and casseroles. If you are looking for new grain thanksgiving Foods that start with r to add to your diet, consider rye.
With its distinct flavor and nutritional value, it is sure to become a favorite in no time.
16. Russet Potato
The Russet potato is a type of potato that is commonly used in many different dishes.This potato has brown skin and white flesh. It is a popular choice for baking, frying, and mashed potatoes.
Regarding nutrition, the Russet potato is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It is also a good source of fiber. This potato can be a healthy addition to any diet.
The Russet potato is a good choice if you are looking for a versatile potato that can be used in many different dishes.
This potato has brown skin and white flesh. It is a popular choice for baking, frying, and mashed potatoes.
17. Risotto
Risotto is a traditional Italian dish that is made with rice, broth, and other ingredients. It is a very popular dish and is often served as a main course.Risotto is usually made with short-grain rice, such as Arborio or Carnaroli. The rice is cooked in broth until it is creamy and tender.
Risotto can be made with different kinds of broth, such as chicken, beef, or vegetable.
There are many different ways to make risotto, and it can be flavored with different ingredients, such as cheese, vegetables, or seafood. Risotto is a versatile dish that can be made to suit any taste.
18. Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich is a classic American sandwich made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and thousand island dressing on rye bread. It's a delicious and hearty sandwich that's perfect for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner.While the Reuben sandwich is a delicious and classic sandwich, it's also a bit of a mystery. The origin of the sandwich is unknown, but there are several theories.
One theory suggests that the sandwich was invented by a Jewish deli owner in New York City in the early 1900s.
Another theory suggests that a Nebraska man in the 1920s invented the sandwich.
Whatever the sandwich's origin, one thing is for sure - the Reuben sandwich is a delicious and iconic sandwich that has stood the test of time.
Reuben sandwich is the best If you're looking for a delicious and hearty sandwich, thanksgiving Foods that start with r.
19. Rigatoni
Rigatoni is a type of pasta that originates from the Italian region of Lombardy. It is made from durum wheat flour and water, and its name comes from the word "rigato," which means "ridged" in Italian.Rigatoni pasta is typically ridged on one side and smooth on the other. Rigatoni pasta is traditionally used in Italian dishes such as "allaarbonara" and "al pesto.
Rigatoni can also be used in various other dishes, such as pasta salads, soups, and casseroles.
Rigatoni is a great option if you're looking for hearty and filling thanksgiving Foods that start with r meal.
It pairs well with various sauces and can be made ahead of time, making it a great meal for busy weeknights.
20. Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese is an Italian cheese made from sheep’s milk. It is a soft, white cheese with a slightly grainy texture. Ricotta cheese is used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory.In sweet dishes, ricotta is often used as a filling for desserts such as cannoli and cheesecake.
It can also be used as a topping for pancakes or waffles. Savory dishes such as lasagna and stuffed shells also often include ricotta cheese.
Ricotta cheese is high in protein and calcium and is a good source of vitamins A and B12. It is also low in fat and sodium.
Ricotta cheese is a versatile cheese that can be used in various dishes.
21. Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is also on our list of thanksgiving Foods that start with r, which has been around for centuries.It is made with just a few simple ingredients - rice, milk, sugar, and spices - and can be easily adapted to fit any Dietary restriction.
While rice pudding is traditionally made with white rice, you can also use brown rice, wild rice, or even sushi rice.
The type of milk you use is also up to you. While many people use cow's milk, you can also use almond milk, coconut milk, or other non-dairy milk.
Rice pudding is a versatile and delicious dish that everyone can enjoy. So next time you're looking for a comforting dessert, give rice pudding a try.
22. Retsina
Lastly, Retsina is a resinated white wine that is popular in Greece. It is made by adding pine resin to the wine during fermentation.This gives the wine a unique flavor that is often described as piney or resin-like.
Retsina is typically made with the native Greek grape varieties Assyrtiko, Athiri, and Rhoditis; it can also be made with other grape varieties.
Retsina is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed with various dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats and vegetables and traditional Greek dishes such as Souvlaki and Gyro.
Retsina can also be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif or after-dinner drink. So if you're looking for a unique wine to try, be sure to give Retsina a try.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our blog has helped a list of varieties of Thanksgiving foods, starting with R.
While there are many other delicious Thanksgiving dishes, these are some of the most popular and iconic in our blog post.
So if you're looking for a great Thanksgiving meal, be sure to include some of these delicious thanksgiving foods that start with "R" dishes.
2024.05.07 16:29 cartoon_Dinosaur Second Contact Chapter 1
Thank you to Space paladin for the canvas and u/Acceptable_Egg5560 for proofreading and critique
Content warning; flattery
[Next]
Memory transcript: Maarchal , MESEA Astronomers. Date: [Standard Farsul calendar ] July 13th, 3665
EEECH EEECH EEECH
I turn over on my side, haphazardly reaching for the alarm. My paw crashes into it, knocking it on the ground.
CRASH
“Sigh.” I sit up and rub my eyes open, through my bedroom window I can see the sun just barely creeping over the horizon. Painting the winter sky in a cacophony of reds and purples. It was beautiful, any other day I would appreciate it. But I was too fatigued to enjoy the sight.
The fucking overtime is killing me. Still better than being in this hellhole.
I turn over and dangle my legs over the side of my bed. Looking at the object of my frustration, there vibrating on the ground was my alarm clock, I reached down and picked it up.
Thoo thoo thoo
Great, just great, the fucking whistle was dented. I’m going to have to repair it today or risk waking up late tomorrow. Just my FUCKING LUCK.
“Sigh.” Breath in, breath out, push it down. This anger is pointless, don't feel it.
I get up and head downstairs, alarm in hand. I make my way to the kitchen and take out some plant/meal worm protein kibble. It tastes like shit, but it's cheap and fast to eat. Downing it with a lukewarm glass of sink water I make my way out into my front yard and get into my auto, putting my clock on the passenger seat. I start the hydrocarbon engine and back out of my driveway. The sun was much higher in the sky now, parting the reds and purples for yellow and a blue sky.
I turn and make my way toward main street. What little traffic we had would be dead at this time of day. I turn onto a dirt road and up to the station, a small data processing nodule.
MASEA Sonar and LIDAR telescope survey.
I park and exit my auto, only to turn back and put my alarm in a more hidden place. Right near the pedals. Out of sight of the windows and thus away from any thieves.
Can never be too careful.
I make my way inside. “Hey Maarchal , getting in early again?” Germi asked me.
I nod. ”Hi Germi, can we just please skip the soliloquies today? I had a rough morning.”
“It's still morning, and you never want to talk. I don't think it's healthy but whatever, it's not my Curnts I'm leaving to poachers.”
He turns and punches in my ID code and buzzes me in, simultaneously clocking me in as well. I look down and shuffle my way in. But before I make it all the way in he stops me.
“Oh by the way, they hired a new guy. Said he’d be here around or after lunch. Might want to know so you can make an impression.”
I close my eyes and a growl begins to boil in my throat, before I force it down and turn to the chatty guard.
“I’ll be happier if you mind your own fucking business and do your job. I don't need you to be playing matchmaker again.” He took on a despondent look and shifted in his seat.
“I’m not trying to play matchmaker, I’m playing playdate. I think you need to get a friend, not a boyfriend necessarily. Although I’d be happy if you did. I just don't think you should be married to your job, it's not healthy!!!”
Before I realized it, anger perforated my insides. I growled deeply and launched myself at the wired fence between us. The chubby guard recoiled in his post. “I don't want you trying to interfere with my life!!! I am HAPPY!!! I don't need you or anyone else judging me for how I live!!!”
I turned away and stormed off to my office. Lousy son of a whore, he probably dropped out of high-school. What does he know of happiness? I am at the top of my field and it is not easy like his job.
I calm myself down and walk calmly to my office. There were other farsul in the hallway chatting.
Lousy time wasters, get to your office and analyze your data!!! I screamed internally. Knowing what little use it was trying to get them to be productive. As proven when I first started out here and nearly turned my voice ragged from the useless endeavor.
I pull up my chair and begin typing. The Light Gathering High orbit Telescope Apparatus or better now as the LiGHTA. Was sending out flashes in the direction of the ice giant Curbosa, the second largest planet in the system. Rich with moons, this had been its project for a number of years. My job was to analyze the data and make a useful model with it to better understand orbital mechanics.
I type in the command to print its data.
Using the white paper with the black spots that represented the light that made its way back to the telescope I began my work. The largest black spot was Curbosa, made up of around five hundred pixels. While the largest moon was around 10. Taking the next printed paper I compared them. Figuring out how each spot moved in comparison to the others.
“Hmm, that's… odd.” One Black spot, barely noticeable, was practically standing still compared to the rest. Even compared to Curbosa as the planet moved. As though it was not orbiting anything at all.
I grabbed the next paper, and the spot was gone. Weird, must have been something bright outside the solar system. A new variable star perhaps? I’ll have to send a request to other observatories to monitor that stretch of sky.
But for now I resumed my work. Calculating, measuring, drawing diagrams. It was all monotonous and time consuming work, but it had to be done by hand. By the time I was finished processing the five second interval of data collection it was almost lunch.
I went to grab my bag of kibble rations I keep in my office, before realizing I could use this time to have my alarm whistle repaired and get takeout as well.
On my way out of the office Germi was giving me a look of abject pity. Fuck that, I’d rather have the avoidance or indifference of everyone else rather then that useless emotion.
I get in my auto and start the engine. I look at the passenger seat and notice my clock is missing, I quickly check around me to no avail. I put my head on the wheel and groan.
“Well, I already started the engine. Might as well get some actual food.” I press down on what I thought would be the brake pedal. Only to feel a surge of pain on my foot. I recoil and look down at the pedals. My clock was there, with a bit of blue on its side.
Oh, that's right… I left it there so it wouldn't be stolen. I lift my foot up and look at the damage, a decently sized cut but nothing worth addressing.
I reach down and grab the offending clock and toss it back into the passenger seat and make my way out of the parking lot. All the while my foot stings from the cut.
**\*
Dingaling
I make my way into the old clock shop, the shelves are filled with old and broken clocks and other knickknacks. There's a distinct taste of dust and mildew perforating the old building. Making my way through the maze of dilapidated appliances I find the front desk. A rather young farsul is standing behind it, screwing into the back of an old rust covered whistle alarm clock. I put my clock on the desk and waited for him to respond.
He glances up at me and then back to the object of his attention. Barely giving me any mind. “Excuse me.” I say to get his attention, to no avail. “EXCUSE ME!!!” I yell and slam my hand onto the desk.
“Just a sec, let me finish thiiiisssss and done.” He then takes the back off the old rusted clock and sets it to the side.
“Alrighty, what could I do for you this day Ma'am?”
I pointed to my clock and began. ”The whistle on my clock got dented, I need you to replace or fix it.” He walked over and grabbed my clock, Inspecting all of it in depth except the whistle. Taking on a look of annoyance at the piece of metal and plastic. Shaking his head with his ears held back, he placed it back on the counter.
“I’m afraid I can't repair this, it's mass produced designed to fail shit made of sheet aluminum. Here, I can get you an old brass clock that you could hit with a hammer and the hammer would break before a dent forms.” He was wagging his tail and bent down to presumably grab a said clock.
“I don't want a new clock, I just want you to fix mine. Is there any way you can?” I inquired, becoming more and more annoyed with this guy. He stood up and placed a brass clock on the counter about the same size as mine.
He put his hand behind his head and scratched at his ears. “Well yeah, but it'd probably cost more than just to buy a new one. That's what these are designed to do, break easily but be a pain to repair. I’d have to saw off the whistle and weld a new one on. It would probably cost … fifty eight dollars.”
I was appalled, that was nearly three times how much I paid for it. He then gestures to the brass clock. “But this costs around thirty two dollars, but will probably outlive you.”
Breathing deeply, I reached in my wallet and pulled out the money for the new (old) clock. “Thank you for your business!!!” He said as I turned to leave, I didn't so much as turn to acknowledge him. As I left the store I saw him toss my old clock into a scrap metal bin.
**\*
“Hello, what would you like to order?” The waiter asked, looking over the menu I contemplated my answer.
“I’d like the mersh meat pie, with a side of fried fleat fruit to go.”
He nodded and went to tell the chef. The restaurant was rather busy, I managed to see some of my colleagues getting lunch together and having a rowdy conversation in the back. With what looked like a centerpiece of a roasted mersh carcass in the center. Haphazardly consumed and cut up between them.
DINGALING
Looking over to my side I saw someone enter the establishment. He looked around at the crowded venue, seeing almost every seat taken. He then looked over at me. “Excuse me ma'am, might I trouble you to share this table?” I motioned my hand to the empty seat across from me and he took it. He was a rather tall Farsul, with a deep gray coat interrupted by patches of white on his front and sides of his muzzle. He was wearing a deep green cloak and sported leather shoes.
He clearly wasn't a local if he was cold enough for clothing. I sat in silence across from him. He folded his hands together and looked this way and that before settling on me. “So, what's your name?”
“Maarchal ”
“That's a pretty name, what do you do here?”
“I work at the observatory.”
He started to relax his posture. Leaning into his seat “really? That's cool, what do you do there?”
I gave him a distracted look, “that's classified.”
His features softened. “Not much for conversation, yeah?”
I shake my head “conversations are a waste of time. I have more important things to do.”
He smirks and leans back “Right, like sitting in silence waiting for comfort food. C’mon humor me!”
I roll my eyes “fine, tell you what if you can make me laugh i’ll “humor” you.”
He sits up with a stupidly cute smile and wagging tail. “Alright, so there are six pups at a party, and a bag with six freenkern fruit, each one is given one, but the bag still has a freenkern in it. How can that be?”
“Sigh I don't know, how can it be?”
His smile gets bigger somehow. “You just give the bag to the last pup!”
…
…
“Snicker That is ah, that is really dummmhh, heh.”
“AH HA, You laughed!!!” He said while pointing a digit at me and with a big stupid grin on his face.
“No , I chuckled at best, that's not a laugh!”
He wagged his finger at me. “Yes it is, now you have to talk with me!”
I reluctantly threw my paws in the air, ”fine, fine, I’ll try to engage. Just for the wait.”
He pumped his hand and went right at it. “So you're an astronomer, what made you want to be one?”
I turned to give him my full attention, “well, my family has always been big on scholarly type vocations. Both my parents are archeologists, my older brother is a chemist and my younger sister is apprenticeshipping with my parents. I chose the stars as my field of study, as I always loved space stories as a pup.”
He gave me the side eye, “so it's as simple as barky spaceships was your favorite show?”
A smirk threatened to overtake my features. “No, no, I liked to watch documentaries of the stars and read space operas as a teen. Still do, or er did.” I slightly reached into myself from the memories of shame.
He seemed to notice my regret at admitting the bit of info about operas, as he seemed to try to steer me away from the topic. “ What? Documentaries? Those aren't stories!!!”
“Uh, yeah they are! Isn't the history of how the universe formed not the most epic story of all? Every speck of light has a story to tell, every asteroid has secrets to uncover!!!” My voice was beginning to raise, so I began to rain in my outburst.
“Wow, you really like space that much? Such passion is inspiring!!! And a little cute. “ He rested his head on his hand and looked at me with a type of reverence and admiration that made me feel warm inside.
I smiled back, “Yeah, there's just… so much to uncover…” I reached into myself, the shame had been growing with this attention and expelling of my passion in the most unprofessional manner.
He seemed to recognize my turmoil as his face began to match my dour mood. “Uh, hehe, um. Oh those fellows seem to be having a good time. You know them?”
I put my head in my hands, as he just pointed to my “colleagues”. Who had begun to pop off bones of the mersh carcass and cracked them open to suck the marrow out. “Uhh unfortunately, they work with me at the observatory. Bunch of rowdy pups in adult pelts.”
He looked over and seemed confused by my abject contempt for the manner they conducted themselves in.”... Is there a reason you take offense at their mirth?”
“We’re scientists, we should conduct ourselves as absolutely serious as possible. Instead they treat their job as a game.” I flippantly threw my hand in their direction.
He looked at me with confusion. “I don't think they treat it like a game… I just think they like having fun, so what if they don't act all prim and proper a hundred percent of the time?”
I rub my muzzle, “it's just, we do serious work, they need to be serious as well.”
He smiled at me “yeah, whatever you say”.
I rub my arms, he continues to look at me with mirth. His default joy was infectious, as I struggled to keep my tail still.
“Here you go ma’am, that'll be twelve dollars.” The waiter said as he handed me my takeout. I reached into my wallet but found I was short around six dollars.
I shouldn't have let that clock smith up sale me.
“I’m so sorry, I seem to be short. Let me go to my auto to see if I have enough for the meal.
I got out of the building but before I could open my auto the Farsul I was speaking to rushed out with my takeout. “Uh, here, I paid for you.”
I smiled as I took the meal, ”really? All for a gal you spoke with for all of ten minutes?”
He rubs the back of his head and looks at the ground “heh heh yeah, just wanted to repay you for the pleasure of your company.”
I smirk and enter my auto, “well I hope you enjoyed it, as I doubt we’ll meet again soon.” I start the engine and wave goodbye to the Farsul as I leave the parking lot. Who returned the favor.
**\*
I exit my auto and make my way to the entrance , Germi seemed all too happy to see me again. “Well someone seems to have had a pleasant launch break.” I don't give him the time of day as I wait for him to buzz me in.
I make my way to my office and go about devouring my food. The meat pie was a delectable pastry filled with rich meat and the fried fleat fruit skin was crispy but the fatty flesh inside was all hot and gooey, with a pleasant texture and a hint of a tangy flavor. Much better than my kibble. I ate so fast that it was all gone in a matter of minutes. I relaxed into my seat as the pleasant feeling of a full stomach washes over me.
“You really needed that huh?”
I opened my eyes and turned to my open doorway, the Farsul from the restaurant was standing in it. With his green cloak taken off and draped over his right shoulder.
Embarrassment threatened to swallow me whole. “Wh- what are you doing here?”
He shrugs “I'm the new guy. Wanted to get lunch before I came into work.”
I put my head in my hands, unable to reconcile who I acted so unprofessional with.” I-I only humored you because I thought you were just passing through… I have a reputation here!!!”
He smiles and leans on the side of the door frame. “Yeah, I figured after the fellows at the bar mentioned how I survived without getting burned by the “Vermscoorn”. That's you right?”
I nodded. “ I um , I have an anger problem. “
“Coulda fooled me. Anyways, I look forward to working with you. Oh by the way, names Ponthyt.”
He exits my office door frame and I turn and sink my head onto my desk. Annoyed by my tail wagging, displaying a joy that I wished wasn't there.
[Next]
submitted by cartoon_Dinosaur to NatureofPredators [link] [comments]
Content warning; flattery
[Next]
Memory transcript: Maarchal , MESEA Astronomers. Date: [Standard Farsul calendar ] July 13th, 3665
EEECH EEECH EEECH
I turn over on my side, haphazardly reaching for the alarm. My paw crashes into it, knocking it on the ground.
CRASH
“Sigh.” I sit up and rub my eyes open, through my bedroom window I can see the sun just barely creeping over the horizon. Painting the winter sky in a cacophony of reds and purples. It was beautiful, any other day I would appreciate it. But I was too fatigued to enjoy the sight.
The fucking overtime is killing me. Still better than being in this hellhole.
I turn over and dangle my legs over the side of my bed. Looking at the object of my frustration, there vibrating on the ground was my alarm clock, I reached down and picked it up.
Thoo thoo thoo
Great, just great, the fucking whistle was dented. I’m going to have to repair it today or risk waking up late tomorrow. Just my FUCKING LUCK.
“Sigh.” Breath in, breath out, push it down. This anger is pointless, don't feel it.
I get up and head downstairs, alarm in hand. I make my way to the kitchen and take out some plant/meal worm protein kibble. It tastes like shit, but it's cheap and fast to eat. Downing it with a lukewarm glass of sink water I make my way out into my front yard and get into my auto, putting my clock on the passenger seat. I start the hydrocarbon engine and back out of my driveway. The sun was much higher in the sky now, parting the reds and purples for yellow and a blue sky.
I turn and make my way toward main street. What little traffic we had would be dead at this time of day. I turn onto a dirt road and up to the station, a small data processing nodule.
MASEA Sonar and LIDAR telescope survey.
I park and exit my auto, only to turn back and put my alarm in a more hidden place. Right near the pedals. Out of sight of the windows and thus away from any thieves.
Can never be too careful.
I make my way inside. “Hey Maarchal , getting in early again?” Germi asked me.
I nod. ”Hi Germi, can we just please skip the soliloquies today? I had a rough morning.”
“It's still morning, and you never want to talk. I don't think it's healthy but whatever, it's not my Curnts I'm leaving to poachers.”
He turns and punches in my ID code and buzzes me in, simultaneously clocking me in as well. I look down and shuffle my way in. But before I make it all the way in he stops me.
“Oh by the way, they hired a new guy. Said he’d be here around or after lunch. Might want to know so you can make an impression.”
I close my eyes and a growl begins to boil in my throat, before I force it down and turn to the chatty guard.
“I’ll be happier if you mind your own fucking business and do your job. I don't need you to be playing matchmaker again.” He took on a despondent look and shifted in his seat.
“I’m not trying to play matchmaker, I’m playing playdate. I think you need to get a friend, not a boyfriend necessarily. Although I’d be happy if you did. I just don't think you should be married to your job, it's not healthy!!!”
Before I realized it, anger perforated my insides. I growled deeply and launched myself at the wired fence between us. The chubby guard recoiled in his post. “I don't want you trying to interfere with my life!!! I am HAPPY!!! I don't need you or anyone else judging me for how I live!!!”
I turned away and stormed off to my office. Lousy son of a whore, he probably dropped out of high-school. What does he know of happiness? I am at the top of my field and it is not easy like his job.
I calm myself down and walk calmly to my office. There were other farsul in the hallway chatting.
Lousy time wasters, get to your office and analyze your data!!! I screamed internally. Knowing what little use it was trying to get them to be productive. As proven when I first started out here and nearly turned my voice ragged from the useless endeavor.
I pull up my chair and begin typing. The Light Gathering High orbit Telescope Apparatus or better now as the LiGHTA. Was sending out flashes in the direction of the ice giant Curbosa, the second largest planet in the system. Rich with moons, this had been its project for a number of years. My job was to analyze the data and make a useful model with it to better understand orbital mechanics.
I type in the command to print its data.
Using the white paper with the black spots that represented the light that made its way back to the telescope I began my work. The largest black spot was Curbosa, made up of around five hundred pixels. While the largest moon was around 10. Taking the next printed paper I compared them. Figuring out how each spot moved in comparison to the others.
“Hmm, that's… odd.” One Black spot, barely noticeable, was practically standing still compared to the rest. Even compared to Curbosa as the planet moved. As though it was not orbiting anything at all.
I grabbed the next paper, and the spot was gone. Weird, must have been something bright outside the solar system. A new variable star perhaps? I’ll have to send a request to other observatories to monitor that stretch of sky.
But for now I resumed my work. Calculating, measuring, drawing diagrams. It was all monotonous and time consuming work, but it had to be done by hand. By the time I was finished processing the five second interval of data collection it was almost lunch.
I went to grab my bag of kibble rations I keep in my office, before realizing I could use this time to have my alarm whistle repaired and get takeout as well.
On my way out of the office Germi was giving me a look of abject pity. Fuck that, I’d rather have the avoidance or indifference of everyone else rather then that useless emotion.
I get in my auto and start the engine. I look at the passenger seat and notice my clock is missing, I quickly check around me to no avail. I put my head on the wheel and groan.
“Well, I already started the engine. Might as well get some actual food.” I press down on what I thought would be the brake pedal. Only to feel a surge of pain on my foot. I recoil and look down at the pedals. My clock was there, with a bit of blue on its side.
Oh, that's right… I left it there so it wouldn't be stolen. I lift my foot up and look at the damage, a decently sized cut but nothing worth addressing.
I reach down and grab the offending clock and toss it back into the passenger seat and make my way out of the parking lot. All the while my foot stings from the cut.
**\*
Dingaling
I make my way into the old clock shop, the shelves are filled with old and broken clocks and other knickknacks. There's a distinct taste of dust and mildew perforating the old building. Making my way through the maze of dilapidated appliances I find the front desk. A rather young farsul is standing behind it, screwing into the back of an old rust covered whistle alarm clock. I put my clock on the desk and waited for him to respond.
He glances up at me and then back to the object of his attention. Barely giving me any mind. “Excuse me.” I say to get his attention, to no avail. “EXCUSE ME!!!” I yell and slam my hand onto the desk.
“Just a sec, let me finish thiiiisssss and done.” He then takes the back off the old rusted clock and sets it to the side.
“Alrighty, what could I do for you this day Ma'am?”
I pointed to my clock and began. ”The whistle on my clock got dented, I need you to replace or fix it.” He walked over and grabbed my clock, Inspecting all of it in depth except the whistle. Taking on a look of annoyance at the piece of metal and plastic. Shaking his head with his ears held back, he placed it back on the counter.
“I’m afraid I can't repair this, it's mass produced designed to fail shit made of sheet aluminum. Here, I can get you an old brass clock that you could hit with a hammer and the hammer would break before a dent forms.” He was wagging his tail and bent down to presumably grab a said clock.
“I don't want a new clock, I just want you to fix mine. Is there any way you can?” I inquired, becoming more and more annoyed with this guy. He stood up and placed a brass clock on the counter about the same size as mine.
He put his hand behind his head and scratched at his ears. “Well yeah, but it'd probably cost more than just to buy a new one. That's what these are designed to do, break easily but be a pain to repair. I’d have to saw off the whistle and weld a new one on. It would probably cost … fifty eight dollars.”
I was appalled, that was nearly three times how much I paid for it. He then gestures to the brass clock. “But this costs around thirty two dollars, but will probably outlive you.”
Breathing deeply, I reached in my wallet and pulled out the money for the new (old) clock. “Thank you for your business!!!” He said as I turned to leave, I didn't so much as turn to acknowledge him. As I left the store I saw him toss my old clock into a scrap metal bin.
**\*
“Hello, what would you like to order?” The waiter asked, looking over the menu I contemplated my answer.
“I’d like the mersh meat pie, with a side of fried fleat fruit to go.”
He nodded and went to tell the chef. The restaurant was rather busy, I managed to see some of my colleagues getting lunch together and having a rowdy conversation in the back. With what looked like a centerpiece of a roasted mersh carcass in the center. Haphazardly consumed and cut up between them.
DINGALING
Looking over to my side I saw someone enter the establishment. He looked around at the crowded venue, seeing almost every seat taken. He then looked over at me. “Excuse me ma'am, might I trouble you to share this table?” I motioned my hand to the empty seat across from me and he took it. He was a rather tall Farsul, with a deep gray coat interrupted by patches of white on his front and sides of his muzzle. He was wearing a deep green cloak and sported leather shoes.
He clearly wasn't a local if he was cold enough for clothing. I sat in silence across from him. He folded his hands together and looked this way and that before settling on me. “So, what's your name?”
“Maarchal ”
“That's a pretty name, what do you do here?”
“I work at the observatory.”
He started to relax his posture. Leaning into his seat “really? That's cool, what do you do there?”
I gave him a distracted look, “that's classified.”
His features softened. “Not much for conversation, yeah?”
I shake my head “conversations are a waste of time. I have more important things to do.”
He smirks and leans back “Right, like sitting in silence waiting for comfort food. C’mon humor me!”
I roll my eyes “fine, tell you what if you can make me laugh i’ll “humor” you.”
He sits up with a stupidly cute smile and wagging tail. “Alright, so there are six pups at a party, and a bag with six freenkern fruit, each one is given one, but the bag still has a freenkern in it. How can that be?”
“Sigh I don't know, how can it be?”
His smile gets bigger somehow. “You just give the bag to the last pup!”
…
…
“Snicker That is ah, that is really dummmhh, heh.”
“AH HA, You laughed!!!” He said while pointing a digit at me and with a big stupid grin on his face.
“No , I chuckled at best, that's not a laugh!”
He wagged his finger at me. “Yes it is, now you have to talk with me!”
I reluctantly threw my paws in the air, ”fine, fine, I’ll try to engage. Just for the wait.”
He pumped his hand and went right at it. “So you're an astronomer, what made you want to be one?”
I turned to give him my full attention, “well, my family has always been big on scholarly type vocations. Both my parents are archeologists, my older brother is a chemist and my younger sister is apprenticeshipping with my parents. I chose the stars as my field of study, as I always loved space stories as a pup.”
He gave me the side eye, “so it's as simple as barky spaceships was your favorite show?”
A smirk threatened to overtake my features. “No, no, I liked to watch documentaries of the stars and read space operas as a teen. Still do, or er did.” I slightly reached into myself from the memories of shame.
He seemed to notice my regret at admitting the bit of info about operas, as he seemed to try to steer me away from the topic. “ What? Documentaries? Those aren't stories!!!”
“Uh, yeah they are! Isn't the history of how the universe formed not the most epic story of all? Every speck of light has a story to tell, every asteroid has secrets to uncover!!!” My voice was beginning to raise, so I began to rain in my outburst.
“Wow, you really like space that much? Such passion is inspiring!!! And a little cute. “ He rested his head on his hand and looked at me with a type of reverence and admiration that made me feel warm inside.
I smiled back, “Yeah, there's just… so much to uncover…” I reached into myself, the shame had been growing with this attention and expelling of my passion in the most unprofessional manner.
He seemed to recognize my turmoil as his face began to match my dour mood. “Uh, hehe, um. Oh those fellows seem to be having a good time. You know them?”
I put my head in my hands, as he just pointed to my “colleagues”. Who had begun to pop off bones of the mersh carcass and cracked them open to suck the marrow out. “Uhh unfortunately, they work with me at the observatory. Bunch of rowdy pups in adult pelts.”
He looked over and seemed confused by my abject contempt for the manner they conducted themselves in.”... Is there a reason you take offense at their mirth?”
“We’re scientists, we should conduct ourselves as absolutely serious as possible. Instead they treat their job as a game.” I flippantly threw my hand in their direction.
He looked at me with confusion. “I don't think they treat it like a game… I just think they like having fun, so what if they don't act all prim and proper a hundred percent of the time?”
I rub my muzzle, “it's just, we do serious work, they need to be serious as well.”
He smiled at me “yeah, whatever you say”.
I rub my arms, he continues to look at me with mirth. His default joy was infectious, as I struggled to keep my tail still.
“Here you go ma’am, that'll be twelve dollars.” The waiter said as he handed me my takeout. I reached into my wallet but found I was short around six dollars.
I shouldn't have let that clock smith up sale me.
“I’m so sorry, I seem to be short. Let me go to my auto to see if I have enough for the meal.
I got out of the building but before I could open my auto the Farsul I was speaking to rushed out with my takeout. “Uh, here, I paid for you.”
I smiled as I took the meal, ”really? All for a gal you spoke with for all of ten minutes?”
He rubs the back of his head and looks at the ground “heh heh yeah, just wanted to repay you for the pleasure of your company.”
I smirk and enter my auto, “well I hope you enjoyed it, as I doubt we’ll meet again soon.” I start the engine and wave goodbye to the Farsul as I leave the parking lot. Who returned the favor.
**\*
I exit my auto and make my way to the entrance , Germi seemed all too happy to see me again. “Well someone seems to have had a pleasant launch break.” I don't give him the time of day as I wait for him to buzz me in.
I make my way to my office and go about devouring my food. The meat pie was a delectable pastry filled with rich meat and the fried fleat fruit skin was crispy but the fatty flesh inside was all hot and gooey, with a pleasant texture and a hint of a tangy flavor. Much better than my kibble. I ate so fast that it was all gone in a matter of minutes. I relaxed into my seat as the pleasant feeling of a full stomach washes over me.
“You really needed that huh?”
I opened my eyes and turned to my open doorway, the Farsul from the restaurant was standing in it. With his green cloak taken off and draped over his right shoulder.
Embarrassment threatened to swallow me whole. “Wh- what are you doing here?”
He shrugs “I'm the new guy. Wanted to get lunch before I came into work.”
I put my head in my hands, unable to reconcile who I acted so unprofessional with.” I-I only humored you because I thought you were just passing through… I have a reputation here!!!”
He smiles and leans on the side of the door frame. “Yeah, I figured after the fellows at the bar mentioned how I survived without getting burned by the “Vermscoorn”. That's you right?”
I nodded. “ I um , I have an anger problem. “
“Coulda fooled me. Anyways, I look forward to working with you. Oh by the way, names Ponthyt.”
He exits my office door frame and I turn and sink my head onto my desk. Annoyed by my tail wagging, displaying a joy that I wished wasn't there.
[Next]
2024.05.07 00:22 Sharp-Goose5805 Vault 39, an original idea
Vault-Tec Vault 39 Documentation
One of the few vault tec vaults that successfully saw the experiment through and was not nefarious
Vault Overview:
Vault 39 is a state-of-the-art underground facility designed and constructed by Vault-Tec Corporation. Situated on the Californian coast near San Diego, Vault 39 is a marvel of engineering and innovation, dedicated to the preservation and protection of marine life in the event of a global catastrophe.
Vault Construction:
Vault 39 is constructed in the form of a large cylindrical silo, with the main entrance located at the top of the structure. The vault extends approximately 500 meters deep into the earth, with a diameter of 20 meters. The primary chamber of the vault houses a massive cylindrical aquarium, measuring 500 meters in depth and 20 meters in diameter.
Aquarium Design:
The aquarium within Vault 39 is a feat of engineering, designed to replicate the diverse ecosystems found in Earth's oceans. The cylindrical shape of the aquarium allows for optimal water circulation and distribution, ensuring the health and well-being of the marine life housed within.
Marine Life Preservation:
The primary purpose of Vault 39 is to preserve and protect marine life in the event of a global catastrophe. To this end, the aquarium is stocked with a diverse array of species, including fish, corals, mollusks, and other aquatic organisms. Advanced filtration and monitoring systems are in place to maintain water quality and ensure the health of the inhabitants.
Underwater Tunnel:
Vault 39 is equipped with a large underwater tunnel that extends from the base of the vault to the ocean floor. This tunnel serves as the primary means of access to the outside world and is sealed by a massive vault door to prevent water ingress and maintain the integrity of the vault.
Environmental Monitoring:
Vault 39 is equipped with advanced environmental monitoring systems to track radiation levels, temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors both inside and outside the vault. This data is continuously monitored and analyzed to ensure the safety and well-being of the vault's inhabitants and the marine life within the aquarium.
Power and Life Support Systems:
Vault 39 is powered by a combination of nuclear reactors, solar panels, and hydroelectric generators, ensuring a reliable and sustainable source of energy. Life support systems, including air filtration, water purification, and waste management, are in place to support the needs of the vault's inhabitants and the marine life within the aquarium.
Research and Education:
Vault 39 serves as a center for marine research and education, with state-of-the-art laboratories and educational facilities available to the vault's inhabitants. Scientists and researchers within the vault conduct studies on marine biology, ecology, and conservation, contributing to our understanding of the oceanic world and the preservation of marine life.
Population and Community:
The population of Vault 39 consists of a diverse group of scientists, engineers, technicians, and support staff, all dedicated to the mission of preserving and protecting marine life. The vault is designed to foster a sense of community and cooperation among its inhabitants, with shared living quarters, common areas, and recreational facilities available for socialization and relaxation.
Further explanation:
Vault 39 is a sprawling underground complex designed to mimic the vastness and diversity of the ocean floor. Its layout is divided into several distinct areas, each dedicated to a specific aspect of marine research and conservation.
submitted by Sharp-Goose5805 to Fallout [link] [comments]
One of the few vault tec vaults that successfully saw the experiment through and was not nefarious
Vault Overview:
Vault 39 is a state-of-the-art underground facility designed and constructed by Vault-Tec Corporation. Situated on the Californian coast near San Diego, Vault 39 is a marvel of engineering and innovation, dedicated to the preservation and protection of marine life in the event of a global catastrophe.
Vault Construction:
Vault 39 is constructed in the form of a large cylindrical silo, with the main entrance located at the top of the structure. The vault extends approximately 500 meters deep into the earth, with a diameter of 20 meters. The primary chamber of the vault houses a massive cylindrical aquarium, measuring 500 meters in depth and 20 meters in diameter.
Aquarium Design:
The aquarium within Vault 39 is a feat of engineering, designed to replicate the diverse ecosystems found in Earth's oceans. The cylindrical shape of the aquarium allows for optimal water circulation and distribution, ensuring the health and well-being of the marine life housed within.
Marine Life Preservation:
The primary purpose of Vault 39 is to preserve and protect marine life in the event of a global catastrophe. To this end, the aquarium is stocked with a diverse array of species, including fish, corals, mollusks, and other aquatic organisms. Advanced filtration and monitoring systems are in place to maintain water quality and ensure the health of the inhabitants.
Underwater Tunnel:
Vault 39 is equipped with a large underwater tunnel that extends from the base of the vault to the ocean floor. This tunnel serves as the primary means of access to the outside world and is sealed by a massive vault door to prevent water ingress and maintain the integrity of the vault.
Environmental Monitoring:
Vault 39 is equipped with advanced environmental monitoring systems to track radiation levels, temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors both inside and outside the vault. This data is continuously monitored and analyzed to ensure the safety and well-being of the vault's inhabitants and the marine life within the aquarium.
Power and Life Support Systems:
Vault 39 is powered by a combination of nuclear reactors, solar panels, and hydroelectric generators, ensuring a reliable and sustainable source of energy. Life support systems, including air filtration, water purification, and waste management, are in place to support the needs of the vault's inhabitants and the marine life within the aquarium.
Research and Education:
Vault 39 serves as a center for marine research and education, with state-of-the-art laboratories and educational facilities available to the vault's inhabitants. Scientists and researchers within the vault conduct studies on marine biology, ecology, and conservation, contributing to our understanding of the oceanic world and the preservation of marine life.
Population and Community:
The population of Vault 39 consists of a diverse group of scientists, engineers, technicians, and support staff, all dedicated to the mission of preserving and protecting marine life. The vault is designed to foster a sense of community and cooperation among its inhabitants, with shared living quarters, common areas, and recreational facilities available for socialization and relaxation.
Further explanation:
Vault 39 is a sprawling underground complex designed to mimic the vastness and diversity of the ocean floor. Its layout is divided into several distinct areas, each dedicated to a specific aspect of marine research and conservation.
- Main Entrance: The vault's main entrance leads into a large atrium, designed to resemble the entrance to an underwater grotto. Artificial Sunlight from Vault Tec made Helios panels filters down from above, casting shimmering patterns of light on the walls and floor. A massive glass dome covers the atrium, providing a breathtaking view of the ocean above.
- Aquarium: The centerpiece of Vault 39 is its gigantic aquarium, a sprawling underwater habitat filled with a diverse array of marine life. The aquarium is divided into different sections, each representing a different underwater ecosystem, from coral reefs to kelp forests. Glass tunnels allow dwellers to walk through the aquarium, observing the marine life up close.
- Research Labs: Surrounding the aquarium are a series of research labs, where marine biologists and geneticists work side by side to study and care for the vault's aquatic inhabitants. Each lab is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for conducting experiments and analyzing data.
- Living Quarters: Scattered throughout the vault are living quarters for the dwellers of Vault 39. These quarters are spacious and comfortable, with large windows that provide panoramic views of the underwater world outside. Each dwelling is decorated in a nautical theme, with colors and furnishings reminiscent of the ocean.
- Hydroponic Gardens: In order to sustain the vault's population, Vault 39 is equipped with hydroponic gardens where a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other crops are grown. These gardens are tended to by agricultural specialists, who work to ensure a steady supply of fresh food for the dwellers.
- Common Areas: Interspersed throughout the vault are common areas where dwellers can gather for meals, recreation, and socializing. These areas are designed to resemble seaside cafes and lounges, with comfortable seating, large windows, and even artificial beach areas where dwellers can relax and unwind.