(PSA) I want to start off by recommending retroarch for iPad users. Delta is a FANTASTIC app. I highly recommend it. That being said, if you want to play on an iPad in landscape mode, there is only the iOS version of Delta on iPad. The developer is working on the app for iPad, but as of writing this, retroarch scales perfectly.
(PSA) When it comes to cores. On the apple version of this app, all the cores apple has approved are already included in the app. Can’t add or remove any cores like you can on all the other platforms when running retroarch. If a core is not in retroarch on an apple platform, it is not an approved core or is limited by apple restrictions and will not play well. Apple is not allowing JIT. This is a problem for ps2, psp, and GameCube for sure.
(PRO TIP. .7z to .zip) Using the files app, you can unzip a .7z file. Just rename it to .zip and select it. The files app will unzip it. Done. No need for an unzipping app.
(REQUIRED.) Some cores will crash or not boot a rom. I have found this to be mostly related to bios files not being in the app. (To add bios files = Use the files app. Go to on my iphone. Then find the retroarch folder, and select it. Then select the subfolder that is also named retroarch. After that scroll down to the folder named system. Dump all of your bios for all systems into this folder. I would add any bios you can find for the systems you are playing. This will stop the crashing and increase compatibility with games from different regions.) , (To find what bios are missing, open the retroarch app. Go to settings, core, Manage cores, Scroll down to the core you want to use, Select the core. Then scroll down to firmware. Just below that, you will see which bios are optional. Which ones are missing and required. The (!) is just a bullet point.) If you try to load a rom and it still crashes use a different core to launch that game if it is available. It could be a compatibility issue between the core and the rom. Or it could be region locked and you still need another bios file.

1.) (REQUIRED.) If you want to save yourself some annoyances with Retroarch on iOS, then after you make a change to your settings, hit home in the navigation menu, select configuration file, then save configuration file. I choose the overwrite option, but you can choose what best fits you. We can do this on other platforms by just tapping the back button until it exits the application, but there isn’t a back button on iOS.

2.) (OPTIONAL.) I like to turn on vibration/ haptic feedback. Go to settings in the navigation menu, input and scroll down to haptic feedback. I turn both options on and leave the vibration strength at 100%.

3.) (OPTIONAL.) I like to change the user interface. You can do this in two ways. A.) Changing the theme. Go to settings, user interface, appearance, select color theme and then choose your favorite. Mine is material ui dark. A.1) If you want you can also choose another app icon. The setting is the first option under user interface. B.) I like the stock setup, but you can change the entire layout to be different. You can go to settings, drivers, and select menu. The stock option is glui. You can choose the option you like the best in this section.

4.) (OPTIONAL.) I like to change the date and time format at the top to be something I am more used to. Go to settings, user interface, menu item visibility and select “style of date and time” towards the end of the list.

5.) (REQUIRED.) GETTING GAMES IN THE APP. Then we get to importing content. In the iOS version, Retroarch wants the roms to be placed into a folder that is inside of the Retroarch app itself. What I do is take the roms I want to play on Retroarch and move them into the Retroarch app. Here is how I do that. I have a folder already on my iPhone with the roms I want to play on Retroarch. (I store my roms on device. Using the Files app, then on my iphone and save the folder on your phone first. We move it to where it needs to go in the next step.). My folder is named “Retroarch Roms”. It can be really helpful to stay organized. Especially if you also use the Delta and ppsspp apps. I use the files app to locate this folder. Then I select it and move it. Or you could copy it but be mindful of files sizes and storage space. (I put “copy it” in here for a major reason. If you store all your roms in retroarch. And one day you want to delete and reinstall the app…. Bye bye roms. My library is too big to back up to iCloud. But that might be a good option if it works. I have not tested it.). Then move or paste this folder inside of the Retroarch app folder under downloads. (Files app, on my iphone, scroll down to retroarch – select it, then select the subfolder that is also named retroarch, then scroll down to downloads, select it. Your entire folder or multiple folders can go here.) Then hit the playlist menu (middle navigation button.) and select import content. Then scan directory. Click documents/retroarch, scroll down to downloads, then select scan this directory. Then let it do its thing. I like to leave the app open and on screen so the iphone/ipad doesn’t limit background activity. After it is done you can come back to the playlist menu to look through and launch your games. After you have launched a few games, You can go to Home, history and launch your recently played games from there. There is a favorites tab in the playlist section, but I don’t use it personally.

6.) (UPDATES.) I like to make sure a few things are up to date. So, I hit the home menu at the bottom. Go to online updater. Make sure on demand thumbnails is toggled on. (This will add box art on demand as you scroll through your playlist/library.) Then just below that update core files and all the others below it. Update all of them. Then scroll back up to playlist thumbnail updater (This is how you download box art manually for each playlist/library.) and select any system libraries/playlists that are missing album art. If it is your first time, I would just select them all to make sure box art is there when you browse your library. If you want some free to use roms go to content downloader and some homebrew and other roms are in there for each system.

(PSA.2) After you are done changing any settings. Do not just close the app. Make sure you save the configuration file like I mentioned at the start of this post. If not, the settings you changed will be “forgotten” but the roms and album art should still be there. Man, I wish someone told me that before I wasted my life 3 times in a row.

7.) (PS1) Firmware for ps1. To run games correctly you will need firmware for the ps1. PSX rearmed can get you started and playing but the “beetle psx hw” core for ps1 has an upscaling capability. This will make games look tremendously better. Firmware location. After a quick search on the interwebs, you have what you need. (To find what bios are missing, open the retroarch app. Go to settings, core, Manage cores, Scroll down to the core you want to use, Select the core. Then scroll down to firmware. Just below that, you will see which bios are optional. Which ones are missing and which are required. The (!) is just a bullet point.) Use your files app. Go to on my iPhone. Find the Retroarch app folder. Click the folder in there named retroarch. Scroll down to system and dump the bios files there. I can’t say where to get them, but “psx bios” should be easy to find in an archive if you search the googles. Make sure the spelling matches specifically. You can look in settings. Scroll down to directory. And you can scroll through where the app is currently looking for bios and you can change that if you need to. You can also go to settings, select core, manage cores, then scroll to the core you are looking for, then select the core. Scroll down to firmware section and select the “looking in” option to see where it wants the bios. It will tell you if any bios are missing as well. This can apply to any core. Not just ps1 cores.

8.) (SEGA SATURN.). Make sure all the Saturn bios are in the system folder inside the Retroarch folder (Look at the other bullet points on this post to see how. Some games will not launch unless the core has the correct bios. ). Roms. After extracting a rom, it should be a folder full of bin files. Put that whole folder (For each game/rom) in a Saturn roms sub folder. (Make a new folder called “Saturn Roms”.) Using the files app, go to on my iphone, go to the retroarch folder, then the retroarch sub folder. Then scroll down and select downloads. This is where you want to store the Saturn Roms folder. When you import content into retroarch. It will scan the folders and subfolders that have all the bin files. Games will appear as one in the playlist/library.

8.) (FAST VIDEO OR AUDiO) Sync issues. I turned on audio sync and it ran sonic super fast. Other people have had the opposite problem and need to turn it on. The same goes for video sync. The fixes are different depending on the device. Go to settings, video, synchronization, and adjust. You can change the refresh rate in the settings, video, output, vertical refresh rate in this section. This should only be adjusted if you are having issues. Audio sync is under settings, audio, synchronization. It says recommended to turn on. Mine goes crazy if I toggle that on. So I leave it off.

9.) (CORE OPTIONS.) Some systems have multiple cores available. I change them out on the fly by hitting playlist in the navigation menu (Middle option.) Scrolling down to the system I want to play. Then selecting the game, I am looking for. (Do not select run yet.) Then scrolling down and selecting set core association. If you want to use the same core for an entire playlist/library. You can go to settings. Playlists, manage playlists, then select the system you want to set a core for, scroll down to default core, and you can pick the one that works best for your needs.

(DIRECT LINK.) Below is a direct link to the app on the app store for those that have trouble finding it.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/retroarch/id6499539433

(PSA) I want to start off by recommending retroarch for iPad users. Delta is a FANTASTIC app. I highly recommend it. That being said, if you want to play on an iPad in landscape mode, there is only the iOS version of Delta on iPad. The developer is working on the app for iPad, but as of writing this, retroarch scales perfectly.
(PSA) When it comes to cores. On the apple version of this app, all the cores apple has approved are already included in the app. Can’t add or remove any cores like you can on all the other platforms when running retroarch. If a core is not in retroarch on an apple platform, it is not an approved core or is limited by apple restrictions and will not play well. Apple is not allowing JIT. This is a problem for ps2, psp, and GameCube for sure.
(PRO TIP. .7z to .zip) Using the files app, you can unzip a .7z file. Just rename it to .zip and select it. The files app will unzip it. Done. No need for an unzipping app.
(REQUIRED.) Some cores will crash or not boot a rom. I have found this to be mostly related to bios files not being in the app. (To add bios files = Use the files app. Go to on my iphone. Then find the retroarch folder, and select it. Then select the subfolder that is also named retroarch. After that scroll down to the folder named system. Dump all of your bios for all systems into this folder. I would add any bios you can find for the systems you are playing. This will stop the crashing and increase compatibility with games from different regions.) , (To find what bios are missing, open the retroarch app. Go to settings, core, Manage cores, Scroll down to the core you want to use, Select the core. Then scroll down to firmware. Just below that, you will see which bios are optional. Which ones are missing and required. The (!) is just a bullet point.) If you try to load a rom and it still crashes use a different core to launch that game if it is available. It could be a compatibility issue between the core and the rom. Or it could be region locked and you still need another bios file.

1.) (REQUIRED.) If you want to save yourself some annoyances with Retroarch on iOS, then after you make a change to your settings, hit home in the navigation menu, select configuration file, then save configuration file. I choose the overwrite option, but you can choose what best fits you. We can do this on other platforms by just tapping the back button until it exits the application, but there isn’t a back button on iOS.

2.) (OPTIONAL.) I like to turn on vibration/ haptic feedback. Go to settings in the navigation menu, input and scroll down to haptic feedback. I turn both options on and leave the vibration strength at 100%.

3.) (OPTIONAL.) I like to change the user interface. You can do this in two ways. A.) Changing the theme. Go to settings, user interface, appearance, select color theme and then choose your favorite. Mine is material ui dark. A.1) If you want you can also choose another app icon. The setting is the first option under user interface. B.) I like the stock setup, but you can change the entire layout to be different. You can go to settings, drivers, and select menu. The stock option is glui. You can choose the option you like the best in this section.

4.) (OPTIONAL.) I like to change the date and time format at the top to be something I am more used to. Go to settings, user interface, menu item visibility and select “style of date and time” towards the end of the list.

5.) (REQUIRED.) GETTING GAMES IN THE APP. Then we get to importing content. In the iOS version, Retroarch wants the roms to be placed into a folder that is inside of the Retroarch app itself. What I do is take the roms I want to play on Retroarch and move them into the Retroarch app. Here is how I do that. I have a folder already on my iPhone with the roms I want to play on Retroarch. (I store my roms on device. Using the Files app, then on my iphone and save the folder on your phone first. We move it to where it needs to go in the next step.). My folder is named “Retroarch Roms”. It can be really helpful to stay organized. Especially if you also use the Delta and ppsspp apps. I use the files app to locate this folder. Then I select it and move it. Or you could copy it but be mindful of files sizes and storage space. (I put “copy it” in here for a major reason. If you store all your roms in retroarch. And one day you want to delete and reinstall the app…. Bye bye roms. My library is too big to back up to iCloud. But that might be a good option if it works. I have not tested it.). Then move or paste this folder inside of the Retroarch app folder under downloads. (Files app, on my iphone, scroll down to retroarch – select it, then select the subfolder that is also named retroarch, then scroll down to downloads, select it. Your entire folder or multiple folders can go here.) Then hit the playlist menu (middle navigation button.) and select import content. Then scan directory. Click documents/retroarch, scroll down to downloads, then select scan this directory. Then let it do its thing. I like to leave the app open and on screen so the iphone/ipad doesn’t limit background activity. After it is done you can come back to the playlist menu to look through and launch your games. After you have launched a few games, You can go to Home, history and launch your recently played games from there. There is a favorites tab in the playlist section, but I don’t use it personally.

6.) (UPDATES.) I like to make sure a few things are up to date. So, I hit the home menu at the bottom. Go to online updater. Make sure on demand thumbnails is toggled on. (This will add box art on demand as you scroll through your playlist/library.) Then just below that update core files and all the others below it. Update all of them. Then scroll back up to playlist thumbnail updater (This is how you download box art manually for each playlist/library.) and select any system libraries/playlists that are missing album art. If it is your first time, I would just select them all to make sure box art is there when you browse your library. If you want some free to use roms go to content downloader and some homebrew and other roms are in there for each system.

(PSA.2) After you are done changing any settings. Do not just close the app. Make sure you save the configuration file like I mentioned at the start of this post. If not, the settings you changed will be “forgotten” but the roms and album art should still be there. Man, I wish someone told me that before I wasted my life 3 times in a row.

7.) (PS1) Firmware for ps1. To run games correctly you will need firmware for the ps1. PSX rearmed can get you started and playing but the “beetle psx hw” core for ps1 has an upscaling capability. This will make games look tremendously better. Firmware location. After a quick search on the interwebs, you have what you need. (To find what bios are missing, open the retroarch app. Go to settings, core, Manage cores, Scroll down to the core you want to use, Select the core. Then scroll down to firmware. Just below that, you will see which bios are optional. Which ones are missing and which are required. The (!) is just a bullet point.) Use your files app. Go to on my iPhone. Find the Retroarch app folder. Click the folder in there named retroarch. Scroll down to system and dump the bios files there. I can’t say where to get them, but “psx bios” should be easy to find in an archive if you search the googles. Make sure the spelling matches specifically. You can look in settings. Scroll down to directory. And you can scroll through where the app is currently looking for bios and you can change that if you need to. You can also go to settings, select core, manage cores, then scroll to the core you are looking for, then select the core. Scroll down to firmware section and select the “looking in” option to see where it wants the bios. It will tell you if any bios are missing as well. This can apply to any core. Not just ps1 cores.

8.) (SEGA SATURN.). Make sure all the Saturn bios are in the system folder inside the Retroarch folder (Look at the other bullet points on this post to see how. Some games will not launch unless the core has the correct bios. ). Roms. After extracting a rom, it should be a folder full of bin files. Put that whole folder (For each game/rom) in a Saturn roms sub folder. (Make a new folder called “Saturn Roms”.) Using the files app, go to on my iphone, go to the retroarch folder, then the retroarch sub folder. Then scroll down and select downloads. This is where you want to store the Saturn Roms folder. When you import content into retroarch. It will scan the folders and subfolders that have all the bin files. Games will appear as one in the playlist/library.

8.) (FAST VIDEO OR AUDiO) Sync issues. I turned on audio sync and it ran sonic super fast. Other people have had the opposite problem and need to turn it on. The same goes for video sync. The fixes are different depending on the device. Go to settings, video, synchronization, and adjust. You can change the refresh rate in the settings, video, output, vertical refresh rate in this section. This should only be adjusted if you are having issues. Audio sync is under settings, audio, synchronization. It says recommended to turn on. Mine goes crazy if I toggle that on. So I leave it off.

9.) (CORE OPTIONS.) Some systems have multiple cores available. I change them out on the fly by hitting playlist in the navigation menu (Middle option.) Scrolling down to the system I want to play. Then selecting the game, I am looking for. (Do not select run yet.) Then scrolling down and selecting set core association. If you want to use the same core for an entire playlist/library. You can go to settings. Playlists, manage playlists, then select the system you want to set a core for, scroll down to default core, and you can pick the one that works best for your needs.

(DIRECT LINK.) Below is a direct link to the app on the app store for those that have trouble finding it.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/retroarch/id6499539433

Credit to u/SpacePaladin15 for the NOP Universe.
Hey, I hope everyone's doing well!
Today we return to the namesake of this fic, an actual lesson about animals. This one focuses on Koalas! One of Australia's most recognisable critters. I hope you enjoy.
It's hardly worth mentioning, seeing as I'm an infrequent poster at the best of times, but I'll not have another chapter out for a few weeks due to limited free time and devoting most of my writing time to an upcoming ficnapping. Be sure to look out for that!
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Memory transcription subject: Rysel, Venlil Environmental Researcher
Date [Standardised human time]: 8th September 2136
“Koalas!”
Bernard’s energised voice boomed through the air as the classroom's monitor flickered into life, images of this paws lecture topic popping up one after the other until the entire screen was filled with a collage of furry quadrupeds.
Squee! I’ll never get tired of this, it’s all so cool!
As usual the sight of something new stirred immediate discussion, hushed murmurs swelling into vibrant discourse in little more than a heartbeat. Most of the class swiftly huddled together into small herds to bounce ideas around while the rest opted to stick to the solace of their own thoughts as they took in the display.
I’d be quite happy in either situation, though seeing as Sandi had already sunk into deep concentration and Kailo had peeled off to talk with Ennerif and Solenk, it seemed the decision had been made for me on this occasion. Wasting no more time on idle inspection of the people around me, I focused my full attention forward, eager to form first impressions before the lesson began in earnest.
Now then, time to make some educated guesses. What traits does this animal have? I wonder if I’ll get any right this paw?
Professional assumptions went paw-in-paw with the lectures, examining and coming up with hypotheses about the specimens was only natural. Recently however, I’d started to make a little game of it to make things even more interesting than usual. A veritable bonfire of ideas had been set ablaze within me, fueled by my newfound knowledge of Earthen wildlife. Every flash and spark of the flame was a fresh theory I could try to apply to the lectures. It was an invigorating exercise that further stoked my unceasing wonderment.
So far I’d only done this once during the previous class and, to my disappointment, I’d not done too well.
I was right when I guessed that chickens were omnivores, but wrong in my assumption that they could fly. And that red thing on their head, the um… what was it called? The comb! Yes, the comb. I thought that was to attract mates, but it regulates body heat instead. It’s fascinating. Oh! Stars damn it I’m rambling!
I bapped my tail against my leg, the soft thud being just enough to snap me back from my runaway thoughts before I went completely wall-eyed. I was becoming more and more accustomed to getting lost in my own head while remaining conscious of the fact; it was happening so frequently now that it was pretty much impossible not to. Now I was able to pull myself back to the world around me without having to rely on someone else shaking me out of it. Most of the time anyway.
Sandi still keeps an eye on me, and Kailo even decided to help out once without being too snide about it. Anyway where was I? Oh yeah, Koalas.
Glancing at the furred animals, two things immediately stood out. Firstly, their eyes were in a more central position on their face. And second, all the images showed them being on or close to trees. There were other noteworthy observations of course, such as the Koala’s prominent nose and rounded features, but they fell to the wayside as I honed in on these points first.
Hmmm… ok. I already know to discount the idea that they’re predators just from eye position, so let’s get that thought out of here. Maybe omnivorous? Herbivore? Agh no, I can’t just guess that for the sake of guessing, that’s the same problem! Hrm, it’s tough making these assumptions now that everything I thought I knew has been turned on its head.
Nevermind, I’ll focus on the other thing. All the trees make me think they’re arboreal, that seems to be a reasonable assumption. I wonder what else they-
Clearing his throat, Bernard broke my concentration, his call for attention silencing the murmuring conversation and redirecting everyone's focus to the lecturer's podium.
His gaze panned across the room as he waited for everyone to settle, a beaming smile lighting up his face, “As ever I’m delighted to see you all get so into the subject matter from the get go. I’m looking forward to hearing what you were discussing should you wish to share. For now though, how about we get started, hm?”
A chorus of merry bleats rang out from across the audience, ears and tails flicking happily in agreement. Bernard's grin grew in tandem with the class's fervour, clasping his hands together enthusiastically as he launched into the lesson, “Excellent! Then let’s get started.”
The pictures on screen dissolved away until only one remained, enlarging to cover the entire monitor with the fluffy grey face of a Koala peacefully reclining in the crook of a tree.
“Ah, there we are,” Bernard’s baritone timbre drifted through the room as he looked up at the image, his own tone reflecting the relaxed attitude of the animal on screen, “He looks so comfortable doesn’t he? Perfectly at peace with the world, not too surprising considering they sleep almost 20 hours a day. A full paw!”
A wave of beeps and gasps rippled through the herd, punctuated by a single yawn-dressed comment from Rova, “A full paw? Hwuuu… jealous.”
Her drowsy remark elicited several whistling giggles from the herd, Bernard's own jovial chortle joining them as he turned to face her, “Late evening Rova?”
I twisted a little in my seat, panning an eye in Rova’s direction just in time to see her bleary eyes bulge open and her ears shoot up, now intensely aware of the fact she hadn’t been as quiet as she thought she had.
Sitting up abruptly, she hastily tapped down errant tufts of wool that’d flared in surprise as she composed herself, though her nervousness at becoming the centre of the class's attention was still plain for all to hear, “Uh- I um… achem, a little bit yes, um- …sorry. Lokki dragged me out to a movie viewing in the rec centre. It went on pretty late.”
A melodramatic bray from the other side of the room drew everyone's ears away from Rova to the now aghast Lokki, paw splayed across his chest in faux indignation, “Dragged you? Well excuse me for trying to broaden your horizons with human movies. That’ll be the list time I- …Ahaaaa…”
Lokki’s theatrics were cut short by a heavy yawn of his own, a swell of whistling laughter rolling through the herd as vibrant bloom lit up his snout, a sight that elicited a particularly amused bleat from Rova.
Turning away from the duo I looked back at Bernard, pleased to see that he was chuckling along with us. Behaviour like Lokki’s would never have been tolerated in my school and university days but, in stark contrast, Bernard revelled in it, the liveliness of his students fueling his own bombastic style of teaching. It was a pleasant change of pace having a teacher who let us all be ourselves in class; provided we weren’t too disruptive to the lesson plan.
Speaking of which.
His laughter still rumbling through the air, Bernard clapped his hands to pull everyone's focus back to him, “Ok, ok, let’s get back to it then shall we? Rova. Lokki. Hopefully the two of you can stay awake long enough until you can grab yourselves a coffee.”
As the class settled down and the last few giggling beeps petered out, Benard pointed a hand to the screen, “So, the Koala. Let’s start simple shall we? They are herbivorous marsupials native to the eastern and southern coasts of Australia. Easily recognised the world over, they are a well known and beloved symbol of their homeland, along with other animals such as the Kangaroo and the Emu. The former of which you might remember from one of our earlier lectures.”
Indeed I did remember, along with how angry Bernard had gotten after some speh-head had derided the Yotul after he explained how he held specific disdain for such attitudes.
Uuuggghh… I never want to see him angry again. So chilling.
I shook my ears in an effort to dismiss the unpleasant memory, panning my eyes back to the monitor to try and distract myself by inspecting the Koala’s physical appearance once more. Thankfully, by some Star's blessed intervention, Bernard had the exact same idea.
“Koala’s are rather squat in stature, ranging around sixty to eighty-five centimetres in length and weighing little more than fifteen to sixteen kilograms at their full size. As you can see, the fur of this fellow before you is a lovely silvery grey, but their fur can also sport a chocolaty brown hue as well. Arguably the most distinctive part of their appearance is their head, being rather large for their body size and having rounded ears, a large nose, and a pair of small eyes. These are often brown but variations do occur.”
It didn’t slip past my notice that Bernard didn’t bother to point out that the Koala’s eyes were forward facing. I didn’t think he’d simply forgotten, so perhaps he just felt it wasn’t necessary given that he’d already stated it was herbivorous. Either way, no one stuck up a paw or tail to question him.
“Now this will hardly be surprising considering how long they sleep, but Koala’s are largely sedentary and it’s rather easy to see why when you have a look into the contents of their diet.”
With the press of a button the Koala on screen was replaced by images of vibrant green vegetation. Soaring trees and flowering shrubbery weaved together across landscape framed pictures pulled admiring trills from the herd, the diversity of the plant life being shown standing as a reminder that it wasn’t only animal life that flourished on Earth.
After giving everyone the chance to take in the picturesque scenes, Bernard casually hammered that point home, “This is eucalyptus or, more accurately, a choice selection of more than 700 plants belonging to the eucalyptus genus, though the Koala itself favours 30 of them in particular.”
700!? Stars…
Realising that my ears had drooped in my momentary awe, I twisted them back to tune into the lesson, only for them to splay out in shock at the next words to come out of Bernard's mouth.
“The leaves of these plants are the primary food source of the Koala and there are a couple things worth mentioning when talking about these plants. For starters they do not have much nutritional or caloric value, leading to the Koala’s low-energy lifestyle. Additionally, they contain toxic compounds.”
A shiver instantly ran through the herd, ears flicking rapidly in confusion and alarm followed by a few quizzical whispers. It didn’t take long for someone to decide to give a proper voice to the murmuring.
“Excuse me Doctor. Did we hear that right? Their diet is made up of toxic flora?” Vlek’s grumbling incredulity cut through the herd's mutterings with ease. Until Kailo’s recent change of heart, the fifty something rotation old blonde Venlil had been a close second in terms of scepticism. Mercifully his rebuttals had always been relevant questions as opposed to ranting diatribes, so he at least remained on topic if nothing else.
Bernard nodded in confirmation, smiling back at Vlek while absentmindedly twirling the end of his moustache, “You heard me right, they do indeed consume plants that are toxic. Just not to them.”
Any worry or uncertainty still clinging to the herd was swept away by the provision of the glaringly obvious answer, leaving me chuckling inwardly at the oversight.
Ah of course! The plant might be poisonous but they’ll have evolved to deal with that. Stars… I’m so used to expecting the unexpected with Earth that I didn’t even consider the simplest solution.
“I see, thank you Doctor,” Vlek replied, a tinge of interest still audible in his tone, “I assume they’ve developed some adaptation to become immune to the harmful effects?”
The question immediately evoked a smirk from our teacher, but he hurriedly suppressed it while bobbing his head, “They have indeed. There are several factors that aid in their digestion of eucalyptus leaves without succumbing to the plant's baleful properties. The first is a part of the intestinal tract called the cecum. It contains a microbiome that allows the Koala to digest the eucalyptus. Coupled with this is an enzyme in the Koala’s liver that helps them break down the toxins. They are also capable of sniffing out the plants with the least amount of toxins, ensuring that they ingest as little as possible.”
Pausing for a breath Bernard looked back at the screen before turning to face us, another grin curling at the edges of his mouth as he continued with his explanation, “This is mostly for adult Koala’s, because while their young also possess these same adaptations, they don’t just go straight to munching through foliage right after being born. No, they need a little help making that jump and getting a stomach full of all that good gut bacteria. It’s nothing bad, but those of a sensitive stomach may wish to prepare themselves for this next part.”
Bernard’s assurances did little to assuage the concern that his warning had foisted upon us. Having been exposed to so much of the weirdness Earth had to offer everyone always ended up on edge whenever Bernard gave advice like this, even if he did say it in jest.
What strange nonsense thing do Koala pups do then? Judging by the way he’s acting it probably isn’t something as simple as drinking milk from the mother. Hmmm…
“So,” Bernard began, snapping us from our pensive stupor, “Young Koala’s, known as joeys, have a gestation period of thirty-five days on average, which is approximately forty-two paws. Once born they travel from the birth canal to a pouch in their mother so that they can continue to develop and grow. In the pouch the joey finds and latches onto one of two teats and these provide the newborn with a steady stream of nourishing milk. It spends the next six to seven months growing in the pouch, its eyes, ears, and fur all developing as time goes on.”
Okay, interesting. But this is exactly how I thought it’d go. What’s different?
The unexpected normalcy of the Koala’s birth and growth cycle had calmed everyone's nerves, only to be replaced with an air of suspicion as we waited with rapt attention for Bernard to drop the other claw and upend our expectations like he always did.
Not wanting to keep us in further suspense he forged ahead, the tempo of his voice picking up as the smile started to crease his face once more, “Now to make the switch from milk to eucalyptus, the mother also feeds the joey a substance called pap. It comes from the cecum I mentioned earlier, and contains all the gut bacteria required to help the young Koala in making the switch to eucalyptus.”
He stopped and looked around, searching us for a reaction to what I felt was a rather bland statement of fact. What was it he was saying without actually saying? Koala pups drink milk to mature and then include this pap substance so that they can start eating plants. I don’t see what-
The cecum is part of the intestine.
I blinked.
I blinked again, the intrusive interruption scouring my brain clean of any other thought bar the one it’d just implanted itself in the forefront of my mind.
Oh stars. They-
“They eat their own poop!?”
The shocked bleat shattered the peace of the room to reveal that most if not all of us had come to the same tail curling conclusion. As the hall filled with unrestrained vocalisations of disgust, an ‘Ugh’ over here and a ‘Blegh’ over there, Bernard’s own bellowing laughter joined the throng of voices.
“Ha! Everytime! Each and every time. Clearly it doesn’t matter if my students are Human or Venlil. Whenever someone learns about the Koala’s dietary development the reaction is the same!”
Pleased with himself beyond reason, Bernard chuckled away while the rest of us grappled with this ghastly reality. While there were plenty of animals that feasted on things that ranged from simply unappealing all the way to the stomach churningly grotesque, I’d never heard of an animal that actively consumed the excrement of its own species. Benefits aside, the prospect of having to do that to survive to adulthood sent a shiver of revulsion down my spine.
Ewww… Stars, I hope I forget this feeling by 2nd meal. They’re serving sturen and magamroot stew later. I was really looking forward to it.
With the herds mood beginning to temper Bernard tapped the podiums controls, removing the verdant collage of eucalyptus to display several similar yet distinct environments, still chortling merrily to himself in the process, “Ok then, with that little foray into their diet complete, why don’t we look at their habitat in more detail? As you might imagine given their diet and arboreal nature, Koala’s live in forested regions, and can be found in tropical and temperate zones. About a century ago they were classed as a vulnerable species, however efforts were made to turn this around and increase their numbers. Sadly the largest factor in their decline was human activity, as the fertile lands that gave rise to their bountiful forests were coveted farm land for our settlements.”
It was strange to hear Bernard so matter of factly admit to humanity's negative impacts on other species. He’d alluded to such things in the past but always with an air of caution, carefully pawing the line between honestly answering a question while not painting humanity as uncaring and destructive. AKA, the ‘predators’ we’d all initially expected them to be.
Perhaps his comfort in making such admissions was a reflection of the class's comfort with him, for no one so much as batted an ear. Even Kailo, who I would’ve expected to jump at the chance to use this as a prime example of predatory danger, only flicked an ear in stern yet silent concern.
A cough from Bernard drew my attention back, a new picture on screen that showed a forest from a bird's-eye view. Drawn across the image were around a dozen ringed areas, some bordering one another while others overlapped to some degree. It took me a moment, but I soon recognised that what I was looking at was a map, the rings representing what I assumed to be territories. And it didn’t take much effort to guess who each one belonged to.
“From habitats we move onto behaviours, so let’s start with territories. Koala’s are solitary animals. Yes, despite being herbivores. Considering they’re only awake for roughly four hours of the day I can hardly blame them. Lots to do and not a lot of time to do it. Jokes aside, once they mature they are quite independent, carving out a little slice of land for themselves, as displayed in this example, called a Home Range. That is not to say they go it alone and leave everything else behind however. Rather, as shown in the map behind me, they live in their own space while still being part of a larger social group.”
With another press of his pad the picture was updated to show one of two symbols in each segment, along with a key to the side of the map displayed in helpful Venlang. A quick glance told me that the symbols were representing whether the territory belonged to a male or female of the species.
“As you can see there is quite a bit of overlap between different Koala’s territories. It is in these areas that most of the socialising takes place between neighbours. The trees in these locations represent the few areas where intrusion across territories is acceptable for the sake of social interaction. Outside of that the Koala’s stick to their own territories for the most part, with the exceptions of Koala’s who are passing through, attempting to become part of the social group themselves, or dominant males who sometimes go off into another Koala’s range. But how do they know where one range begins and another range ends you might ask? Well, this brings us onto the next part of the lecture. How do Koala’s communicate?”
Wiping away the map from the monitor, Bernard loaded up a video of a Koala sitting in a tree and pressed play. Head held high, the Koala’s body shook as it belted out a reverberating call into the wilderness that could only be described as a garbled combination of a car engine failing to turn over mixed with the hiccups of someone with a particularly sore throat.
That’s how they sound? Oof that must be rough on the lungs.
I clearly wasn’t the only one to share such a thought, because I clocked Sandi tracing a paw along her neck as the noise went on, ears fluttering in discomfort at the noise.
Bernard himself cleared his own throat as the video came to an end, minimising it and replacing it with another image of a tree with a Koala rubbing up against the bark, “I think they’ve got me beat on who’s got the deeper voice!”
His joke garnered several amused beeps, a rare reaction that caused a beaming smile to shine across his face at lighting speed, “Oh you’re too kind. I’ll be here all week. Now where were we? Oh yes! Communication. As you’ve just heard, Koala’s are capable of loud low pitched bellows that can carry over vast distances. These express everything from ‘Hello I’m over here’ to ‘This is my turf, stay away’. Bellowing is more common in the males than the females, opting for shouting matches as opposed to outright fights when it comes to asserting dominance. Other vocal expressions include grunts, wails, and snarls if they’re acting particularly angsty. Mother and joey pairs also communicate through gentle clicking, squeaking, and murmuring sounds. And there’s one more thing worth mentioning. Something they have in common with Humans and Venlil when it comes to emoting.”
Really? They do something we do?
Curious, I pressed myself against the desk, straining as close as I could to once more scrutinise the Koala’s features. Not a lot stood out to me at first, the grey marsupial not sharing many similarities with a Venlil that I could identify.
Ok think. We show emotion with our ears, tails, and our wool on occasion. They don’t have tails so it’s obviously not that. Wool standing on end is more a reaction than a conscious expression. So it must be the ears then.
To my quiet satisfaction, my hunch was soon validated by Bernard, “As well as their vocalisations, Koala’s are very emotive through their facial features. Just like humans, they use their mouths and lips to show how they feel, but these tend more towards the aggressive side of the scale than what you might see on a human. Regarding yourselves however, Koala’s utilise their ears in tandem with their mouth movements when showing strong emotion.”
I was delighted to hear that my assumption was correct, a little happy flick twisting out through my tail and bapping against my chair with a muted thump against the plastic.
Hehe yes! Got one right!
“Now then, we are getting close to lunchtime so I’ll finish this segment off with something I think you’ll find particularly interesting. Diplomacy.”
Perplexed mutterings followed in the wake of the bizarre inclusion to the lecture, my own thoughts being dominated by bewilderment as I tried and failed to make sense of how the two could possibly be related.
Why would Koala’s, or any animal for that matter, be linked to diplomacy? Hmmm...
I could understand dispatching exterminators to deal with a predator issue as a show of goodwill, that at least includes animals, but Humans aren’t like that so I think I can safely scratch that off the list.
Maybe the humans who live in that region benefited from Koala’s in some way. Could they have gotten something from them? But what?
Hopefully not what the pups get from their mothers.
Agh no! Begone awful intrusive thoughts. Blegh! I don’t need that in my head.
As I wrestled with the short-lived revulsion inflicted upon me by my Star's damned subconscious, Bernard placed a new image on screen, one that was decidedly different from all that had preceded it.
On screen were more than a couple dozen pictures of humans. Some were pictured alone while others congregated in large groups while cameras surrounded them from all angles. Across all the images, I noted two common themes. First of all, a solid majority of the humans were wearing formal wear similar to what I’d seen worn by UN representatives on TV. If the gaggle of journalists in the background of the photos didn’t already confirm my suspicions, then it was this similarity which made me conclude they were all people of some importance. Likely politicians judging from context clues.
Secondly, each of the individuals was interacting with a Koala in some form. Some cradled one against their chests while others were feeding it eucalyptus leaves or pellets of some kind. One of the assumed politicians had become an impromptu bed for a snoozing bundle of fur, a gleeful smile spread across their face as they lovingly gazed down at the sleeping Koala in their lap.
As I continued to stare at the assorted photos something clicked into place, a sudden spark flickering into life. A burgeoning light of comprehension that flared and swelled with every wide-eyed breath I took. Some things still escaped me, things I hoped would soon be explained, but in staring at all of the humans happy smiling faces, I was struck with an instant of pure understanding.
If someone, say a Nevok for instance, offered to gift me a creature that was common to them but which might exotic and breathtaking to a Venlil, how could my feelings not be swayed? How could I walk away from that encounter and not have grown closer to them as a result?
“Koala diplomacy,” Bernard waved his hand up at the monitor, a slight reverence in his tone, “My favourite kind of soft power diplomacy. Where political leaders take photo ops with Koala’s and, on occasion, the Australian government loans Koala’s to other nations for a time to bolster positive relations. It certainly helps that Koala’s are a beloved animal worldwide, drawing large crowds and revenue for countries fortunate enough to host the adorable critters.”
The truly alien concept predictably sparked instant discussion in the herd, two polar opposite schools of thought swiftly cementing themselves as the most popular opinions. Simultaneously, I heard one voice trill excitedly while another scoffed at what they clearly saw as a ridiculous and offensive notion.
“Squee! That’d be so cool! I’d love to get the chance to see a Liri from Coila. Remember the Rainbow Boa? Think of that shimmering effect and colour but put it on a bird! Ah! I’ve only heard their song on video. It’d be a treat to hear it in person!”
Ooo! I’ve read about them! I’d love to get up close to one.
“Loaning. As if animals are property to be hoarded and traded? Pugh! Another predatory trait the humans don’t want to acknowledge for what it is.”
Ugh, typical. Jump right to the worst possible option.
However, despite my dismissal of their disparaging fumings, an uncomfortable thought pressed upon my mind. While it was plain to see how much humans cared for the Koala, it didn’t change the fact that humans did keep animals as property just as the scornful herd member had said.
This begged a rather important, disquieting question. Aside from keeping some animals as cattle, a stomach tightening minefield I had no desire to step a claw onto right now, how else did humans keep other creatures. And how did they treat them?
Before I was fully conscious of doing it my paw was in the air, the question primed on my tongue.
Noticing my elevated paw Bernard pointed at me, smiling warmly, “Yes Rysel? What’s on your mind?”
Sorry Bernard. I hope this one’s not too awkward for you to answer.
Flicking my ear in appreciation, and waiting for everyone to settle enough so that I could be heard, I voiced my concerns as neutrally as possible, “Thank you Doctor. I uh, just had a thought. We know that humans keep certain animals for… particular reasons, and we know why. From how you’ve spoken about Koala’s I think it's fair to say that the same cannot be said for them. However, this makes me wonder, what other reasons do humans have for keeping animals and how do you treat them?”
A flash of surprise blinked across Bernard's eyes but vanished so quickly that it felt like I’d imagined it. Had he not expected such a question? Maybe he was just shocked that it’d been me who’d ended up asking it?
Stars, am I so predictable that no one expects me to ask difficult questions?
Unfortunately, a quick glance at my deskmates seemed to prove that to be the case, as both Sandi and Kailo were looking at me with differing degrees of astonishment flapping in their ears.
Well speh.
“A very good point Rysel, certainly one that’s worth raising. Yet another example of you all anticipating what I have to say before I can bring it up myself.” Bernard tapped the podium, switching off the monitor before returning his focus to me, “We won’t be needing that. I’ve nothing prepared that I can show you and we’re heading to lunch in a few minutes anyway. Still, that’s plenty of time to give you a bit of an answer.”
A bit? What does he mean just a bit?
Made even more curious by Bernard's preempted admission that he wasn’t going to fully answer my query, I dialled both my ears on him, fixing him with an inquisitive stare as he started to explain with a tone that was noticeably more nonchalant than any of his previous explanations.
“So, animals in captivity for reasons other than what you already know. Honestly I would love to delve into other reasons regarding why we keep animals. However, I have a lesson plan in the works that I hope to share with you all in the not too distant future. Some of it touches upon this very topic and I’d quite like to bundle it all together. That said, I can tell you how animals in captivity are treated. In short, the answer is very well. There are a mountain of laws both on private and public interests that govern the standards and ethical treatment of animals, and breaches of these laws are quite severe even for relatively minor infractions.”
While I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed by the vague answer to what was really the bulk of my question, I was at least satisfied by Bernard’s assurances that animals in captivity, such as the Koala, were well looked after. Considering the barely subdued grumbling coming from some corners of the audience it was clear that several of the herd didn’t believe Bernard outright, but I trusted him to be honest. Additionally, the mention of an upcoming lecture focused on humans keeping animals caused quite the buzz.
I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation at exploring the topic further. He’d pretty much confirmed we wouldn’t be talking about cattle farms, for which I was relieved, but that still left a huge amount of uncertainty in what was to come.
Humans keeping animals as cattle was a forgone conclusion. As horrifying as that reality was, it was one I could understand from a detached and strictly clinical point of view. Being predators they ate meat and therefore they kept cattle. But the concept of keeping animals for any other reason baffled me.
What could be the purpose? The diplomacy thing makes sense now that I have context, but what other reasons could they have.
The class's discussions were interrupted by the recognisable ring of the break bell, the shift in attention eliciting a change in conversation from confused hypotheses to peppy conversation on how everyone was planning to spend their break and what they had in mind for 2nd meal.
“Well I can see everyone’s excited for lunch, and who am I to disappoint,” chuckling Bernard waved us all up from our seats, pocketing his pad from the podium and heading to open the classroom door for us, “Enjoy your break, get a good rest along with a hearty meal, and I’ll see you all back here at the usual time.”
As everyone else filed out I stayed behind, waving at Sandi and Kailo as they left, and pawing over to Bernard once he and I were the only ones left in the room.
Ears folded down and with an apologetic tinge in my voice I greeted him as I sidled up to him, “Hey Bernard, I uh… sorry if that last question was unexpected.”
Chortling in reply, Bernard waved a hand through the air in a sign I’d come to understand meant ‘not a problem’.
“No need to apologise Rysel. It was a good question and most certainly not a problem.”
Heh, called it.
I sighed, allowing tension I didn’t realise I’d been holding to relax itself from my shoulders, “Phew, that’s a relief. I’m glad. I’m curious to hear what this new lesson is you’ve got in store for us by the way.”
Bernard wagged a finger at me, throwing up his eyebrows in mock amazement, “Oh are you now? Well I’m afraid you’ll have to remain curious for the time being. It’s going to be quite the surprise if all goes to plan. But…”
He trailed off, glancing at me before looking to the door like he was making sure no one else was around.
Wait, is he going to tell me? Oh please yes let me know now!
Stopping myself from jumping on the spot in excited anticipation, and trying my damndest to stop my tail from wagging in equal measure, I stared up at Bernard as he stewed in his thoughts before turning back to face me.
“I can’t tell you the specifics, but I’m working with Alejandro and Tolim to get something together. A trip that’s not a trip as it were. And when it happens, I’m going to need a few of the more accepting members of the class to lend me a hand. I’m hoping you and a couple others will be able to help with that?”
A trip that’s not a trip? What does that mean? Agh who cares about that right now! Bernard’s relying on me to help out!
Still trying not to keep myself from bouncing around with pup like glee I swished my tail and nodded my head in joint agreement, happy to help with whatever Bernard had in store for us, “Of course! Anything you need I’ll be there to lend a paw. You can count on me!”
A broad warm smile lit up Bernard's face, a hand patting me on the shoulder in appreciation, “Thank you Rysel. I knew I could rely on you but it still warms my heart to hear it. And, as thanks for this and for the many times you’ve shown your support, the surprise includes a little something special I think you’d appreciate the most.”
If my earlier enthusiasm had been at a nine, then the implication of a supposed gift sent it rocketing all the way to a hundred in a heartbeat.
“Wait… WHAT!? What do you mean? What are you doing?”
As impossible as it seemed, Bernard's grin grew even wider as I almost lost myself in wool shaking exhilaration, “Call it my own form of Koala diplomacy. But I’m afraid that’s all I can say for now. Wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise even for you!”
“Oh you ass!” Whistling jovially I bapped my tail against Bernard’s leg in fake indignation, evoking a barking bellowing laugh from the man himself.
Still laughing, the two of us departed the class and made for the canteen, my rumbling stomach leading me on while my mind spun with fantastical thoughts as to what Bernard had prepared for us.
And what specifically he had in store for me.

Number 1:

1. Initiation: Represents new beginnings, leadership, and individuality.
2. The Magician: Tarot card associated with the number 1, symbolizing creativity, manifestation, and willpower.
3. Independence: Signifies self-reliance, originality, and taking the lead.
4. Potential and Possibility: Embodies the start of a journey or a project.
5. Unity: Reflects the oneness, the start of something unique and singular.

Number 2:

1. Duality: Signifies balance, partnerships, and cooperation.
2. The High Priestess: Associated with intuition, wisdom, and hidden knowledge in tarot.
3. Harmony: Represents the need for balance and diplomacy.
4. Relationships: Emphasizes partnerships, teamwork, and cooperation.
5. Choice: Reflects decisions, choices, and the need for balance.

Number 3:

1. Creativity: Symbolizes self-expression, communication, and creative endeavors.
2. The Empress: Tarot card embodying fertility, creativity, and abundance.
3. Optimism: Represents joy, enthusiasm, and social interaction.
4. Expansion: Signifies growth, self-improvement, and broadening horizons.
5. Manifestation: Reflects the power of thoughts, words, and actions in creating reality.

Number 4:

1. Stability: Signifies structure, order, and a solid foundation.
2. The Emperor: Tarot card embodying authority, stability, and structure.
3. Security: Represents practicality, reliability, and building a strong base.
4. Endurance: Symbolizes persistence, hard work, and discipline.
5. Materialization: Reflects the manifestation of ideas into tangible results.

Number 5:

1. Change: Represents adaptability, versatility, and transformation.
2. The Hierophant: Tarot card symbolizing tradition, guidance, and spiritual growth.
3. Freedom: Signifies exploration, adventure, and embracing diversity.
4. Shifts and Challenges: Reflects unexpected changes and the need for flexibility.
5. Versatility: Embodies adaptability, resourcefulness, and embracing new experiences.

Number 6:

1. Harmony: Signifies balance, responsibility, and nurturing relationships.
2. The Lovers: Tarot card representing love, harmony, and choices in relationships.
3. Service: Reflects selflessness, compassion, and community involvement.
4. Healing: Symbolizes peace, empathy, and creating harmonious environments.
5. Balance: Embodies equilibrium, diplomacy, and a harmonious lifestyle.

Number 7:

1. Spirituality: Signifies introspection, wisdom, and spiritual growth.
2. The Chariot: Tarot card embodying willpower, determination, and progress.
3. Seeking Truth: Reflects introspection, seeking answers, and inner wisdom.
4. Analysis: Symbolizes deep thinking, research, and intellectual pursuits.
5. Inner Guidance: Embodies intuition, mysticism, and inner awareness.

Number 8:

1. Achievement: Represents success, abundance, and material prosperity.
2. Strength: Tarot card symbolizing inner strength, resilience, and determination.
3. Power and Success: Reflects ambition, authority, and material wealth.
4. Karma: Symbolizes cause and effect, balance in action and consequence.
5. Manifestation: Embodies material gains, business acumen, and financial stability.

Number 9:

1. Completion: Signifies endings, spiritual fulfillment, and humanitarianism.
2. The Hermit: Tarot card embodying introspection, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment.
3. Universal Love: Reflects compassion, service to humanity, and global consciousness.
4. Wisdom and Leadership: Symbolizes altruism, leadership, and guiding others.
5. Transformation: Embodies closure, spiritual awakening, and a broader perspective.

These tidbits offer symbolic insights into each number and its corresponding tarot cards, highlighting the thematic elements and interpretations associated with numerology and the tarot.

Number 10:

1. Completion and Renewal: Signifies endings and new beginnings simultaneously.
2. Wheel of Fortune: Tarot card representing cycles, destiny, and unforeseen changes.
3. Wholeness: Reflects fulfillment, achievement, and cycles coming to fruition.
4. Transformation: Symbolizes change, fate, and the cyclical nature of life.
5. Karmic Balance: Embodies the law of cause and effect, the balance of energies.

Number 11:

1. Master Illuminator: Signifies spiritual awakening, intuition, and enlightenment.
2. Justice (or Strength in some decks): Tarot card embodying fairness, balance, and divine guidance.
3. Enlightenment: Reflects intuition, inspiration, and high spiritual awareness.
4. Higher Calling: Symbolizes spiritual guidance, psychic abilities, and divine insights.
5. Visionary Leadership: Embodies visionary ideas, inspiration, and spiritual mentorship.

Number 12:

1. Harmonious Union: Signifies partnerships, cooperation, and balanced relationships.
2. The Hanged Man: Tarot card symbolizing surrender, perspective shift, and sacrifice for enlightenment.
3. Sacrifice for Growth: Reflects letting go, patience, and seeing things from a different angle.
4. Adaptability: Symbolizes flexibility, suspension, and altering perspectives.
5. Transformational Insight: Embodies spiritual growth through surrender and acceptance.

Number 13:

1. Transformation and Rebirth: Signifies change, transition, and new opportunities.
2. Death: Tarot card representing transformation, endings, and profound change leading to renewal.
3. Transition and Renewal: Reflects release, transformation, and the start of something new.
4. Renewed Perspective: Symbolizes rebirth, regeneration, and shedding old patterns.
5. Power of Endings: Embodies closure, regeneration, and the birth of something new.

Number 14:

1. Practical Manifestation: Signifies grounded action, stability, and accomplishment.
2. Temperance: Tarot card embodying balance, moderation, and spiritual harmony.
3. Moderation and Balance: Reflects harmony, patience, and blending opposites.
4. Alchemy: Symbolizes transformation, adaptation, and spiritual equilibrium.
5. Integration of Duality: Embodies combining elements to create a harmonious whole.

Number 15:

1. Change and Transformation: Signifies shifts, transitions, and adaptability.
2. The Devil: Tarot card representing materialism, bondage, and self-limiting beliefs.
3. Personal Freedom: Reflects breaking free from limitations, temptations, or restrictions.
4. Inner Exploration: Symbolizes shadow work, self-awareness, and breaking unhealthy patterns.
5. Choice and Liberation: Embodies freeing oneself from restrictions or unhealthy attachments.

Number 16:

1. Spiritual Awakening: Signifies spiritual growth, divine intervention, and new beginnings.
2. The Tower: Tarot card embodying sudden change, upheaval, and revelation leading to transformation.
3. Sudden Change: Reflects upheaval, awakening, and revelation.
4. Awakening to Truth: Symbolizes enlightenment, liberation, and profound insights.
5. Transformational Crisis: Embodies breaking down old structures for spiritual evolution.

Number 17:

1. Manifestation and Power: Signifies success, authority, and material abundance.
2. The Star: Tarot card representing hope, inspiration, and spiritual guidance.
3. Optimism and Healing: Reflects hope, faith, and finding inner guidance.
4. Divine Intervention: Symbolizes grace, blessings, and spiritual renewal.
5. Illumination and Guidance: Embodies finding direction and renewed faith.

Number 18:

1. Karmic Completion: Signifies accomplishment, fulfillment, and achievement.
2. The Moon: Tarot card symbolizing intuition, illusion, and the subconscious mind.
3. Unveiling the Unseen: Reflects mystery, intuition, and subconscious revelations.
4. Inner Reflection: Symbolizes introspection, dreams, and hidden truths.
5. Transition to Higher Wisdom: Embodies uncovering hidden aspects for spiritual evolution.

Number 19:

1. Fulfillment and Success: Signifies attainment, completion, and reaching goals.
2. The Sun: Tarot card embodying joy, success, and positive outcomes.
3. Abundance and Vitality: Reflects happiness, vitality, and illumination.
4. Inner Child: Symbolizes innocence, playfulness, and embracing the joy of life.
5. Celebration of Achievement: Embodies success, happiness, and realization of dreams.

Number 20:

1. Integration and Fulfillment: Signifies completion of a cycle and a sense of wholeness.
2. Judgment: Tarot card embodying spiritual awakening, renewal, and rebirth.
3. Rebirth and Redemption: Reflects resurrection, spiritual awakening, and inner calling.
4. Transformational Shift: Symbolizes a new phase, karmic retribution, and self-reflection.
5. Resolution and Clarity: Embodies closure, resolution, and a fresh start.

Number 21:

1. Unity and Completion: Signifies the combination of wisdom and fulfillment.
2. The World: Tarot card representing fulfillment, completion, and mastery of life's cycles.
3. Wholeness and Integration: Reflects achievement, fulfillment, and a sense of accomplishment.
4. Mastery and Enlightenment: Symbolizes mastery over life's lessons and embracing new beginnings.
5. Culmination and Success: Embodies achievement, fulfillment, and a broader perspective.

Number 22:

1. Master Builder: Signifies the capacity to turn dreams into reality, a powerful force.
2. The Fool (in some decks): Tarot card embodying unlimited potential, new beginnings, and the journey of life.
3. Visionary Potential: Reflects the potential for extraordinary achievements and spiritual awakening.
4. Manifesting Dreams: Symbolizes materializing ambitions, power, and the ability to create.
5. Transformational Journey: Embodies spiritual growth, leadership, and a higher purpose.

Number 23:

1. Creative Expression: Signifies creative pursuits, artistic talents, and innovative thinking.
2. The King of Swords (in some decks): Tarot card representing intellect, clarity, and communication.
3. Mental Clarity: Reflects clear thinking, sharp intellect, and diplomatic communication.
4. Ambitious Vision: Symbolizes ambitious plans, strategic thinking, and leadership qualities.
5. Intellectual Authority: Embodies mental strength, assertiveness, and logical reasoning.

Number 24:

1. Nurturing Stability: Signifies caring, support, and creating a secure environment.
2. The Queen of Cups (in some decks): Tarot card symbolizing emotional intelligence, compassion, and intuition.
3. Compassionate Care: Reflects empathy, sensitivity, and nurturing qualities.
4. Emotional Balance: Symbolizes emotional stability, harmonious relationships, and intuitive insights.
5. Supportive Energy: Embodies nurturing abilities, empathy, and creating emotional security.

Number 25:

1. Adaptability and Curiosity: Signifies versatility, exploration, and adaptability to change.
2. The Knight of Pentacles (in some decks): Tarot card representing reliability, dedication, and practicality.
3. Steadfast Dedication: Reflects commitment, reliability, and a methodical approach.
4. Practical Solutions: Symbolizes a practical mindset, dedication to tasks, and diligent work ethic.
5. Resourceful Nature: Embodies a disciplined attitude, reliability, and readiness to adapt.

Number 26:

1. Diplomatic Harmony: Signifies balance, cooperation, and creating harmony in relationships.
2. The Two of Swords (in some decks): Tarot card embodying decision-making, balance, and compromise.
3. Balancing Choices: Reflects decisions, seeking balance, and finding middle ground.
4. Peaceful Resolutions: Symbolizes diplomacy, compromise, and finding solutions.
5. Harmonious Choices: Embodies choices made with consideration, balance, and peace.

Number 27:

1. Wisdom and Compassion: Signifies understanding, spiritual insight, and empathy.
2. The Nine of Cups (in some decks): Tarot card representing emotional fulfillment, contentment, and satisfaction.
3. Emotional Satisfaction: Reflects happiness, emotional contentment, and spiritual fulfillment.
4. Inner Contentment: Symbolizes emotional well-being, satisfaction, and contentedness.
5. Gratitude and Fulfillment: Embodies gratitude for blessings, emotional satisfaction, and harmony.

Number 28:

1. Achievement and Ambition: Signifies success through hard work, determination, and ambition.
2. The Ten of Pentacles (in some decks): Tarot card embodying wealth, abundance, and family legacy.
3. Abundance and Legacy: Reflects material success, family prosperity, and ancestral influence.
4. Fulfillment of Goals: Symbolizes the accomplishment of long-term goals and material stability.
5. Establishing Foundations: Embodies securing foundations, prosperity, and financial stability.

Number 29:

1. Wisdom and Intuition: Signifies spiritual wisdom, intuition, and heightened awareness.
2. The High Priestess (in some decks): Tarot card symbolizing intuition, mystery, and inner knowledge.
3. Intuitive Insights: Reflects hidden knowledge, psychic abilities, and heightened perception.
4. Mystical Awareness: Symbolizes esoteric wisdom, inner guidance, and spiritual depth.
5. Spiritual Illumination: Embodies divine knowledge, inner mysteries, and esoteric understanding.

These tidbits continue to explore the symbolic meanings associated with each number and its corresponding tarot cards, offering insights into the diverse themes and interpretations within numerology and the tarot.

MAIN CLAIM: The entire concept of racism is irrelevant, and discussing it from whichever standpoint will lead to nothing.
REASONS:

1. Beliefs ≠ Actions — An individual has the right to make any sort of conclusions towards anything, since we're all equal, no one can claim moral superiority or enlightenment. With that said, actions that can result from racist beliefs are NOT unethical BECAUSE of racism but INDEPENDENTLY from it. EX: Murder (It's not racism that makes murder unethical), insults (it's not racism that makes offensive speech unethical), discrimination (It's not racism that makes treating another as inferior that makes that act itself unethical).
   
2. The notion of racism necessarily implies the existence of race — When anti-racist people speak out against racism, they do so refuting the core notion that "there are no superior races", this will lead to no results since it leads to it being a matter of difference of information and experience (Racists have, in their heads, good and tangible reasons to be racists that can be pointed out). HOWEVER, the rebuttal of this core notion has a VALIDATING effect for racists because it makes their main assumption that race exists LEGITIMATE. Since it's not that assumption that is being tackled the racist will comfortably believe that if the anti-racist had been through similar experiences they'd understand why a certain race is inferior. Meanwhile, if the concept of race was refuted as a whole, there'd be no space for those conclusions. One thing to be considered is that the existence of the race DOES necessarily imply superior and inferior (EX: if there are races, then there are groups that are genetically different, which means that they will necessarily have different IQs, one higher, one lower), at most it can be argued that this superiority and inferiority is context-dependant, but this does not matter for the racist who WILL use the info in those exact contexts.
   
3. Anti-racism oftentimes further propagates racism — A quick example is enough. When new movies, or other forms of media, come out featuring black individuals in prominent roles, many ardent anti-racists start dissecting the traits and plot points attributed to these black characters, to make sure there is no racism. This has a dehumanizing effect since it necessarily implies that are certain actions/behaviors/plot points that can ONLY happen to blacks if a racist screenwriter decides so. With anti-racism, the focus is constantly on race, taking the individual out of the equation and judging him solely through a racial viewpoint. I was watching a video by Metatron where he reacts to a video by an historian analysing a scene from the movie 300, the historian states that it is ableist for a deformed character to be represented as deceitful and a traitor. This is not about race but is a similar enough theme. What happens here is that the experience of the deformed character is completely dismissed (they have reasons to be deceitful) and its free-will completely ignored because the focus is on its appearance and body by the very people who criticise it. It's also implying that deformed people cannot be traitors. Why wouldn't they? If we're all the same?
   
4. It has an ostracising effect — Very often people forget that racists have REASONS to be racist. If they have had a disproportionate amount of bad experiences with people of a certain race, it's NATURAL to adapt to this experience with misguided conclusions. The same way that, on a larger scale, women can develop a generalised fear of men due to sexual harassment. When morality is brought to the topic, it further separates and alienates racists by DISMISSING THEIR EXPERIENCE. This is wrong because it's demanding that people be more rational than they are capable of on their own and invalidating their fears and natural adaptations, and all of this because people either seek the moral highground, want to virtue signal, or are lazy in actually tackling racist issues. No conflict will EVER be solved by further alienating someone by attributing to them immoral qualities. No one is born immoral, everyone is malleable. But treating them as monsters most certainly ensures they'll remain monsters. It is extremely counter-productive to alienate racists, as if one could solve problems of discrimination by preaching to those that are already converted. Needless to say, any actions need to be punished or rewarded accordingly, regardless of the person behind them.
   
5. It doesn't tackle the core issues — It happens INSANELY often that people reject actual facts about reality in order to avoid racism and bigotry. Using as an example the 13/50 statistic. This statistic IS real. People immediately want to hide or quickly "disprove" it away because of its danger, but again, this is counter-productive and lazy. If a racist sees this statistical fact, and sees that anti-racists delusionally reject it, his view WILL BE LEGITIMISED. Applying a moral layer to a matter of INFORMATION is a terrible, terrible idea. No one is immoral for trying to understand a statistic, but if they are treated as such, they will be such.
   

MY PROPOSED ALTERNATIVES:

1. The experience of racists should be openly validated, tackled and EXPLAINED. Carefully demonstrating what the 13/50 means for racists has, potentially, very positive effects. Not only could such an explanation, if done effectively, be enough to stop it from being used for racists conclusions, it could have the complete opposite effect and make racists more aware of the experience of blacks from the perspective of economical and societal issues (of which human GREED is the main source). This should be done WITHOUT any morality involved. It takes work, strength, courage, knowledge and reasoning, so of course it is harder than merely preaching, but it is the only thing that can work. It requires open-minded, detached and precise counter-arguments for the exact things racists say, instead of generalised moralistic statements or attempts and censoring.
2. There should be a wider spread of GENUINE black role models and positive actions, as well as history. This has, in my opinion, never be started and has had a counter-productive effect since what media has done is take away stories from caucasians, for example, and trade those with blacks, as well as constantly trying to force formulaic and generic examples of black strength that have no effect because they aren't true (EX: Wakanda). Whites have little access to true and inspiring stories from other cultures. A movie like "the boy who harnessed the wind", for example, which tells a real and authentic story about an african family, has 10000x more power than the modern "ACCEPT THAT OTHER RACES ARE GOOD AND YOU'RE A DEMONIC WHITE" media.
3. Make an actual effort to finally NOT SEE COLOR, which used to be the main goal. Even if others do see color, if you try to tackle it from their perspective, you won't win. Offer a different perspective, an alternative worldview, and don't challenge theirs. No one is special.

I'd like to find someone who captivates me. Someone who I can talk with effortlessly. I want to meet a person who I can include in my daily tasks, and talk with throughout the day. I just want to find someone I can be open with. Platonic conversation or romance. Whatever you are looking for, don't hesitate to message me. I hope to hear from you.
I love a number of things, and hate very little. I'm fairly open to trying new things, but some of the things I enjoy are as follows. I love the outdoors. I've never been camping, but I would like to try it with someone some day. I also love to fish. I mostly fish salt water. I do occasionally fish freshwater though. I like to check out new spots around me, but I mostly fish on the beach. Do you like to fish? What are some of your favorite places to go?
I also enjoy the shooting sports. I primarily target shoot. I take part in a little bit of everything, including rifle, pistol and shotgun. It would be nice to find someone who is into shooting or would like to learn/become more familiar. If you shoot, what do you like to shoot mostly? What's been your favorite gun to shoot so far?
PC games are also a enjoyable pastime for me. I have a variety of games, most of which are on Steam. I have other games on various other stores/services. I enjoy a wide variety of different kind of games, so I'm sure we can find something to play together if you game. What are some of your all time favorite games? What are you currently grinding on that you can't put down? One hobby I discovered later on in life is Magic the Gathering. I play both online on MtG Arena, and with physical cards. Magic has become something I am particularly fond of. Do you play any kind of card/table top games? What's been your favorite so far? If you play Magic, what are some of your favorite deck themes?
Music has always been a part of my life. My tastes are varied, ranging from country, death and black metal, electronic, classic rock, folk, pop punk, and more. Do you have a favorite band? What has been your favorite concert you've been to?
I'm honestly an ambivert. I enjoy doing things outside, as well as spending time indoors. I can veg out all day under the covers curled up in my bed, or I can take a trip somewhere and experience something new. I think my personality is a mix of the best of both worlds. What would the perfect day consist of for you?
As far as my personality is concerned, I would say I am fairly relaxed and laid back. I feel like I am somewhere in the middle between loud and excitable, and shy and quiet. Around people I don't know, I tend to be fairly quiet and to myself. In the company of someone who I am close with, I am more open and free. Do you open right up to people, or does it take a while to become comfortable with someone new?
All I hope for is a connection. It could be platonic, or it could blossom into romance, and commitment. I'm not putting a limit on what I am looking for.
With the prior being said, I am single. I may be interested in changing that with the right person. The idea of commitment excites me. Monogamy is appealing to me. Do you feel satisfied with your social life? What kind of connection are you looking for?
Thank you for taking the time to read my post. I appreciate it. I hope you can identify with something I wrote. If you do, please reach out.
P.S. Please feel free to check my post history, and check out a few pictures of my cat if you would like.

I'd like to find someone who captivates me. Someone who I can talk with effortlessly. I want to meet a person who I can include in my daily tasks, and talk with throughout the day. I just want to find someone I can be open with. Platonic conversation or romance. Whatever you are looking for, don't hesitate to message me. I hope to hear from you.
I love a number of things, and hate very little. I'm fairly open to trying new things, but some of the things I enjoy are as follows. I love the outdoors. I've never been camping, but I would like to try it with someone some day. I also love to fish. I mostly fish salt water. I do occasionally fish freshwater though. I like to check out new spots around me, but I mostly fish on the beach. Do you like to fish? What are some of your favorite places to go?
I also enjoy the shooting sports. I primarily target shoot. I take part in a little bit of everything, including rifle, pistol and shotgun. It would be nice to find someone who is into shooting or would like to learn/become more familiar. If you shoot, what do you like to shoot mostly? What's been your favorite gun to shoot so far?
PC games are also a enjoyable pastime for me. I have a variety of games, most of which are on Steam. I have other games on various other stores/services. I enjoy a wide variety of different kind of games, so I'm sure we can find something to play together if you game. What are some of your all time favorite games? What are you currently grinding on that you can't put down? One hobby I discovered later on in life is Magic the Gathering. I play both online on MtG Arena, and with physical cards. Magic has become something I am particularly fond of. Do you play any kind of card/table top games? What's been your favorite so far? If you play Magic, what are some of your favorite deck themes?
Music has always been a part of my life. My tastes are varied, ranging from country, death and black metal, electronic, classic rock, folk, pop punk, and more. Do you have a favorite band? What has been your favorite concert you've been to?
I'm honestly an ambivert. I enjoy doing things outside, as well as spending time indoors. I can veg out all day under the covers curled up in my bed, or I can take a trip somewhere and experience something new. I think my personality is a mix of the best of both worlds. What would the perfect day consist of for you?
As far as my personality is concerned, I would say I am fairly relaxed and laid back. I feel like I am somewhere in the middle between loud and excitable, and shy and quiet. Around people I don't know, I tend to be fairly quiet and to myself. In the company of someone who I am close with, I am more open and free. Do you open right up to people, or does it take a while to become comfortable with someone new?
All I hope for is a connection. It could be platonic, or it could blossom into romance, and commitment. I'm not putting a limit on what I am looking for.
With the prior being said, I am single. I may be interested in changing that with the right person. The idea of commitment excites me. Monogamy is appealing to me. Do you feel satisfied with your social life? What kind of connection are you looking for?
Thank you for taking the time to read my post. I appreciate it. I hope you can identify with something I wrote. If you do, please reach out.
P.S. Please feel free to check my post history, and check out a few pictures of my cat if you would like.

Welcome to Solstice SMP, we foster a vibrant and inclusive community where players of all backgrounds unite to create unforgettable experiences.

With rich lore embedded in every aspect, immersive role playing adventures await those who seek them. From grand builds to sprawling empires, Solstice SMP offers something for everyone. The medieval theme to our modpack ties it all together! Our tight-knit community values friendship, collaboration, and creativity, making every player feel like part of the family.. with a touch of friendly competition. Engage in epic quests, fierce battles, and enjoy the camaraderie of your faction as you build and explore. Embark on a journey through time and fantasy, where your imagination sets the limits, whether you're a veteran or a newcomer Our server is more than just a place to play Minecraft; it's a cozy, welcoming space where you can truly feel at home!

What you can expect:

• A community entirely driven forward by players!
• Huge building opportunities, including as a community.
• Community driven economy, through a reliable trust-based system.
• No overworld/nether resets.
• Friendly battles/wars.
• Regular community events.
• Active and productive player-base!
• Mature players!

The mods we feature in our modpack

• ORIGINS! We have custom races for each team/nation
• Dungeons now loading 1%
• Create
• Create Steam and Rails
• Farmers Delight
• When Dungeons Arise
• Sophisticated Backpacks AND Storage
• Universal Graves
• Hardcore Revival
• Terralith
• And more!
• Season 1 begins on June 1st (but even beyond that, you are still free to join), so don’t wait to hop on if you want to catch the ride early! We’re incredibly excited to welcome new players and can't wait to see the amazing adventures you'll embark on! What are you waiting for?! Become apart of the community today! Comment your Discord username below, or add me on Discord unrivalry and shoot me a dm, I will get back to you swiftly.

Hi Friends, got a quite a few things for sale today. Photo album.
PayPal G&S only, buyer pays shipping if not local. Will trade for Star Wars figures/sets or 18+ sets. Particularly looking for newer botanical sets or any of the icons/ideas sets. Space Shuttle Discovery (10283), Saturn V (92176), or Typewriter (21327) are a few in particular, but feel free to shoot me an offer.
Lot of 139 Minifigures, 137 of which are Star Wars - $950 for the entire lot, free shipping on this

• Please see my incredibly detailed Google Sheets file. Every figure in here is complete except for one (checked against Bricklink inventory), and very well documented on the condition, as well as any additional notes. Happy to provide additional pictures of individual/groups of figures.
• The Google Sheets file also includes a second tab where I keep an inventory of incomplete figures that I have. The ones I want to complete and keep I've marked "keep" in light blue, the ones I would sell I've marked "sell" in orange. I list the missing parts in the notes column. I'm looking for the parts for the "keep" figures mostly, but if you have any let me know! Would also part ways with the incomplete "sell" figures.

GWP promos:

• Four bundles of May 4th Star Wars GWP - $60 each
  • Includes 40686 Trade Federation Troop Carrier, 5008818 Battle of Yavin Collectible Coin, and 30680 AAT polybag
• 40597 Scary Pirate Island - $15
• 40582 4x4 Off-Road Ambulance Rescue $15

Over 35lbs of bulk Lego parts/pieces - $180

• From every theme under the sun, including Star Wars and Harry Potter.
• Also includes Anakin's speeder builds from Bounty Hunter Pursuit (7133) and Palpatine's Arrest (9526) as well as First Order AT-ST (75201) including new sticker sheet and instructions. No figs and unsure of build completeness for these.

Thanks for looking!

Some people may hate what i will say now, but i do this maybe once per week to ensure my things are up-to date. I run this command:

apt-get update && apt-get upgrade -y && apt-get full-upgrade -y && apt-get dist-upgrade -y && apt-get autoremove -y 

to ensure everything on my Kali Linux OS is on the latest version. I have nothing crazy running on it, so the small downtime i have with a manual reboot is no issue for me. In most cases, there are some updates, but today i got over 800!

apt-get update && apt-get upgrade -y && apt-get full-upgrade -y && apt-get dist-upgrade -y && apt-get autoremove -y Get:1 http://mirror.netcologne.de/kali kali-rolling InRelease [41.5 kB] Get:2 http://mirror.netcologne.de/kali kali-rolling/main amd64 Packages [19.8 MB] Get:3 http://mirror.netcologne.de/kali kali-rolling/main amd64 Contents (deb) [46.4 MB] Get:4 http://mirror.netcologne.de/kali kali-rolling/contrib amd64 Packages [115 kB] Get:5 http://mirror.netcologne.de/kali kali-rolling/contrib amd64 Contents (deb) [257 kB] Get:6 http://mirror.netcologne.de/kali kali-rolling/non-free amd64 Packages [193 kB] Fetched 66.9 MB in 14s (4770 kB/s) Reading package lists... Done Reading package lists... Done Building dependency tree... Done Reading state information... Done Calculating upgrade... Done The following packages were automatically installed and are no longer required: libgphoto2-l10n libnsl-dev libtirpc-dev python3-editables vlc-l10n Use 'sudo apt autoremove' to remove them. The following packages have been kept back: accountsservice afflib-tools aircrack-ng alsa-ucm-conf apache2 apache2-bin apache2-data apache2-utils apt apt-utils arp-scan arping arpwatch asleap at-spi2-core atril avahi-daemon avahi-utils axel bind9-dnsutils bind9-host bind9-libs bluez bluez-obexd bully cabextract cadaver cherrytree chromium chromium-common chromium-sandbox clang-15 clang-16 colord coreutils cowpatty cryptsetup cryptsetup-bin cryptsetup-initramfs cryptsetup-nuke-password cups-pk-helper curl curlftpfs cutycapt darkstat dconf-gsettings-backend dconf-service debugedit desktop-file-utils dirb dirmngr dnsmasq-base driftnet dsniff e2fsprogs eapmd5pass edb-debugger edb-debugger-plugins enchant-2 engrampa engrampa-common ettercap-common ettercap-graphical ewf-tools exim4-base exim4-daemon-light exo-utils extundelete fdisk file firefox-esr flac fragrouter freerdp2-x11 galera-4 gawk gcr gcr4 gdb geoclue-2.0 ghostscript gir1.2-atk-1.0 gir1.2-atspi-2.0 gir1.2-freedesktop gir1.2-girepository-2.0 gir1.2-glib-2.0 gir1.2-gstreamer-1.0 gir1.2-gtk-3.0 gir1.2-pango-1.0 gir1.2-polkit-1.0 git glib-networking glib-networking-services gnome-disk-utility gnome-keyring gnome-keyring-pkcs11 gnome-system-tools gnome-themes-extra gnupg gnupg-l10n gnupg-utils gnutls-bin gparted gpg gpg-agent gpg-wks-client gpg-wks-server gpgconf gpgsm gpgv graphicsmagick graphviz gss-ntlmssp gstreamer1.0-gl gstreamer1.0-libav gstreamer1.0-plugins-bad gstreamer1.0-plugins-base gstreamer1.0-plugins-good gstreamer1.0-x gtk-update-icon-cache gtk2-engines-pixbuf gtkhash guile-3.0-libs guymager gvfs gvfs-backends gvfs-common gvfs-daemons gvfs-fuse gvfs-libs gvmd gvmd-common hashcat hexinject hping3 hydra hydra-gtk iio-sensor-proxy ike-scan iproute2 irpas john johnny kali-linux-headless kismet-capture-hak5-wifi-coconut kismet-capture-linux-bluetooth kismet-capture-linux-wifi kismet-capture-nrf-51822 kismet-capture-nrf-52840 kismet-capture-nrf-mousejack kismet-capture-nxp-kw41z kismet-capture-rz-killerbee kismet-capture-ti-cc-2531 kismet-capture-ti-cc-2540 kismet-capture-ubertooth-one kismet-core kismet-logtools kmod ldap-utils libaccountsservice0 libalgorithm-diff-xs-perl libapache2-mod-php8.2 libaprutil1-dbd-sqlite3 libaprutil1-ldap libapt-pkg-perl libarmadillo12 libasound2-plugins libass9 libatk-wrapper-java-jni libatkmm-1.6-1v5 libaudio2 libavahi-client3 libavahi-common-data libavahi-common3 libavahi-core7 libavahi-glib1 libavcodec60 libavdevice60 libavfilter9 libavformat60 libavutil58 libayatana-appindicator3-1 libayatana-ido3-0.4-0 libayatana-indicator3-7 libb-hooks-op-check-perl libbabeltrace1 libbit-vector-perl libblockdev-crypto3 libblockdev-fs3 libblockdev-loop3 libblockdev-mdraid3 libblockdev-nvme3 libblockdev-part3 libblockdev-swap3 libblockdev-utils3 libblockdev3 libbpf1 libcairo-gobject2 libcairo-script-interpreter2 libcairo2 libcaja-extension1 libcanberra-gtk3-0 libcanberra-gtk3-module libcanberra0 libcephfs2 libcharon-extauth-plugins libclang-common-15-dev libclang-common-16-dev libclass-c3-xs-perl libclass-load-xs-perl libclass-xsaccessor-perl libclone-perl libcloudproviders0 libcolord2 libcolorhug2 libcompress-raw-lzma-perl libcrypt-ssleay-perl libcryptsetup12 libct4 libdate-calc-xs-perl libdbd-mariadb-perl libdbd-sqlite3-perl libdbi-perl libdbus-glib-1-2 libdbusmenu-glib4 libdbusmenu-gtk3-4 libdconf1 libdecor-0-0 libdecor-0-plugin-1-gtk libdevel-callchecker-perl libdevel-caller-perl libdevel-lexalias-perl libdigest-crc-perl libdigest-md4-perl libdvdnav4 libeac3 libegl-mesa0 libenchant-2-2 libencode-perl libewf2 libexo-2-0 libfcgi-perl libffado2 libfido2-1 libfile-fcntllock-perl libfindrtp libflite1 libfluidsynth3 libfreefare-bin libfreetype6 libfreexl1 libfsverity0 libgail-common libgarcon-1-0 libgarcon-gtk3-1-0 libgbm1 libgck-1-0 libgck-2-2 libgcr-4-4 libgcr-base-3-1 libgcr-ui-3-1 libgd3 libgdata22 libgdk-pixbuf-2.0-0 libgdk-pixbuf2.0-bin libgfapi0 libgfrpc0 libgfxdr0 libgirepository-1.0-1 libgl1-mesa-dri libglapi-mesa libglib2.0-bin libglusterfs0 libglx-mesa0 libgoa-1.0-0b libgraphene-1.0-0 libgs10 libgs10-common libgsf-1-114 libgspell-1-2 libgssapi-krb5-2 libgssdp-1.6-0 libgstreamer-gl1.0-0 libgstreamer-plugins-bad1.0-0 libgstreamer-plugins-base1.0-0 libgstreamer1.0-0 libgtk-3-bin libgtk-3-common libgtk-4-1 libgtk-4-bin libgtk-4-media-gstreamer libgtk-layer-shell0 libgtk2.0-bin libgtk2.0-common libgtksourceview-3.0-1 libgtksourceview-4-0 libgtksourceviewmm-3.0-0v5 libgtkspell3-3-0 libgtop-2.0-11 libgts-bin libgudev-1.0-0 libgupnp-1.6-0 libgupnp-igd-1.6-0 libgusb2 libgvc6 libhandy-1-0 libharfbuzz-gobject0 libharfbuzz0b libhiredis1.1.0 libhivex-bin libhtml-parser-perl libhttrack2 libimobiledevice6 libinput10 libinstpatch-1.0-2 libintl-xs-perl libio-compress-brotli-perl libjack-jackd2-0 libjavascriptcoregtk-4.1-0 libjson-glib-1.0-0 libjson-xs-perl libjxl0.7 libk5crypto3 libkeybinder-3.0-0 libkmod2 libkrb5-3 libkrb5support0 libldap-2.5-0 libldb2 liblightdm-gobject-1-0 liblocale-gettext-perl liblqr-1-0 libmagic-dev libmagic-mgc libmagickcore-6.q16-7-extra libmanette-0.2-0 libmariadb3 libmath-random-isaac-xs-perl libmbim-glib4 libmbim-proxy libmbim-utils libmm-glib0 libmongocrypt0 libmoose-perl libmosquitto1 libmotif-common libmousepad0 libncurses-dev libncurses6 libncursesw6 libnet-dbus-perl libnet-dns-sec-perl libnet-libidn2-perl libnet-pcap-perl libnet-rawip-perl libnet-ssh2-perl libnet-ssleay-perl libnfsidmap1 libnice10 libnm0 libnma-common libnma-gtk4-0 libnma0 libnotify-bin libnotify4 libnsl-dev libnsl2 libnss-systemd libogdi4.1 liboobs-1-5 libopenconnect5 libopenexr-3-1-30 libopenmpt-modplug1 libopusfile0 libosmesa6 libpackage-stash-xs-perl libpackagekit-glib2-18 libpadwalker-perl libpaho-mqtt1.3 libpam-modules libpam-modules-bin libpam-systemd libpango-1.0-0 libpangocairo-1.0-0 libpangoft2-1.0-0 libpangomm-1.4-1v5 libpangoxft-1.0-0 libparams-classify-perl libparams-util-perl libpcap0.8-dev libpcaudio0 libpcsclite1 libpipewire-0.3-modules libplymouth5 libpocketsphinx3 libpocl2-common libpolkit-agent-1-0 libpolkit-gobject-1-0 libportaudio2 libportmidi0 libpq5 libproc-processtable-perl libproj25 libproxy-tools libproxy1v5 libpulse-mainloop-glib0 libpulse0 libpulsedsp libpython3.11-dev libpython3.11-minimal libpython3.11-stdlib libpython3.12-minimal libpython3.12-stdlib libqmi-glib5 libqmi-proxy libqmi-utils libqrtr-glib0 libqscintilla2-qt5-15 libqt5charts5 libqt5designer5 libqt5help5 libqt5positioning5 libqt5qml5 libqt5qmlmodels5 libqt5quick5 libqt5sensors5 libqt5sql5-sqlite libqt5svg5 libqt5waylandclient5 libqt5waylandcompositor5 libqt5webchannel5 libqt5webkit5 libqt5x11extras5 libqt5xmlpatterns5 libqt6core5compat6 libqt6multimedia6 libqt6qml6 libqt6qmlmodels6 libqt6quick6 libqt6sql6-sqlite libqt6svg6 libqt6waylandclient6 libqt6waylandcompositor6 libqt6waylandeglclienthwintegration6 libqt6waylandeglcompositorhwintegration6 libqt6wlshellintegration6 libqtermwidget5-1 librabbitmq4 libradare2-dev libradcli4 librados2 libraptor2-0 librist4 libroc0.3 librsvg2-2 librsvg2-common librtmp1 librttopo1 libruby libsane1 libsasl2-2 libsasl2-modules libsasl2-modules-db libsdl2-2.0-0 libsdl2-image-2.0-0 libsdl2-mixer-2.0-0 libsecret-1-0 libserf-1-1 libshout3 libsnapd-glib-2-1 libsndfile1 libsndio7.0 libsnmp-perl libsocket6-perl libsoup-3.0-0 libspa-0.2-bluetooth libspa-0.2-modules libspeechd2 libsqlite3-0 libsrt1.5-gnutls libssh-4 libstring-crc32-perl libstrongswan libstrongswan-standard-plugins libsub-identify-perl libsub-name-perl libsvn1 libswscale7 libsybdb5 libsystemd-shared libsystemd0 libtalloc2 libterm-readkey-perl libterm-readline-gnu-perl libtext-charwidth-perl libtext-csv-xs-perl libtext-iconv-perl libthunarx-3-0 libtinfo6 libtirpc-dev libudisks2-0 libunbound8 libunicode-linebreak-perl libunicode-map-perl libunsafessl1.0.2 libupower-glib3 libuuid-perl libuv1-dev libvariable-magic-perl libvlc-bin libvlc5 libvlccore9 libvncclient1 libvolume-key1 libvte-2.91-0 libvte-2.91-common libwacom-common libwacom9 libwebkit2gtk-4.1-0 libwine libwnck-3-0 libwpebackend-fdo-1.0-1 libxatracker2 libxaw7 libxfce4panel-2.0-4 libxfce4ui-2-0 libxfce4ui-utils libxfce4util7 libxfconf-0-3 libxklavier16 libxm4 libxml++2.6-2v5 libxml-parser-perl libxmu6 libxstring-perl libxt-dev libyara10 libyelp0 libzip-dev libzvbi-common light-locker lightdm lightdm-gtk-greeter llvm-15 llvm-15-dev llvm-15-linker-tools llvm-15-runtime llvm-15-tools llvm-16 llvm-16-dev llvm-16-linker-tools llvm-16-runtime llvm-16-tools lsof magicrescue mailutils mailutils-common man-db mariadb-client mariadb-client-core mariadb-server mariadb-server-core mate-calc mate-polkit mc mc-data mdbtools medusa mesa-va-drivers mesa-vdpau-drivers mesa-vulkan-drivers metasploit-framework mfterm modemmanager mosquitto mousepad mpg123 mtd-utils mupdf-tools ncrack netdiscover netsniff-ng network-manager network-manager-fortisslvpn network-manager-fortisslvpn-gnome network-manager-gnome network-manager-l2tp network-manager-l2tp-gnome network-manager-openconnect network-manager-openconnect-gnome network-manager-openvpn network-manager-openvpn-gnome network-manager-pptp network-manager-pptp-gnome network-manager-vpnc network-manager-vpnc-gnome netwox nfs-common nginx nginx-common ngrep nmap nmap-common nodejs ntfs-3g ohrwurm onboard onboard-common onboard-data openconnect openfortivpn openjdk-17-jdk openjdk-17-jdk-headless openjdk-17-jre openjdk-17-jre-headless openjdk-21-jre openjdk-21-jre-headless opensc opensc-pkcs11 openssh-client openssh-server openssh-sftp-server openssl openvas-scanner openvpn ophcrack ophcrack-cli p0f parole parted passing-the-hash pavucontrol pcscd perl perl-base perl-openssl-defaults perl-tk php8.2-cli php8.2-common php8.2-mysql php8.2-opcache php8.2-readline pinentry-gnome3 pipewire pipewire-bin pipewire-pulse pkexec plymouth plymouth-label pocl-opencl-icd policykit-1 policykit-1-gnome polkitd postgresql-16 postgresql-16-pg-gvm postgresql-client-16 ppp proj-bin proxytunnel pst-utils ptunnel pulseaudio pulseaudio-utils pyqt5-dev-tools pyqt6-dev-tools python3-aioquic python3-apt python3-bluepy python3-cryptography python3-cups python3-dbus python3-gdal python3-gevent python3-gi python3-gi-cairo python3-gpg python3-kismetcapturertl433 python3-kismetcapturertladsb python3-kismetcapturertlamr python3-ldb python3-magic python3-magic-ahupp python3-pcapy python3-protobuf python3-pycares python3-pycurl python3-pygame python3-pyqt5 python3-pyqt5.qtopengl python3-pyqt6 python3-samba python3-talloc python3-uvloop python3-wxgtk4.0 python3.11 python3.11-dev python3.11-minimal python3.12 python3.12-minimal qsslcaudit qt5-gtk-platformtheme qt5ct qt6-base-dev-tools qt6-gtk-platformtheme qt6-qpa-plugins qt6-wayland qt6ct qtbase5-dev-tools qterminal qtwayland5 radare2 rcracki-mt rdesktop readpe reaver recordmydesktop redis-server redis-tools redsocks rifiuti2 ristretto rpcbind rpm rpm-common rpm2cpio rsync rtpbreak rtpinsertsound rtpmixsound ruby ruby-atomic ruby-ethon ruby-eventmachine ruby-ffi ruby-hitimes ruby-http-parser.rb ruby-levenshtein ruby-msgpack ruby-nio4r ruby-nokogiri ruby-oj ruby-sdbm ruby-sqlite3 ruby-unf-ext ruby-yajl ruby3.1 ruby3.1-dev samba samba-common samba-common-bin samba-dsdb-modules samba-libs samba-vfs-modules samdump2 sane-airscan sane-utils shared-mime-info siege sipcrack sipp skipfish sleuthkit smbclient snmp snmpd socat speech-dispatcher speech-dispatcher-audio-plugins speech-dispatcher-espeak-ng sqlite3 sqlitebrowser sqsh ssldump sslsniff sslsplit strongswan-charon strongswan-libcharon strongswan-starter stunnel4 subversion sudo system-config-printer-udev system-tools-backends systemd systemd-timesyncd tcpdump tcpflow tcpick tcpreplay testdisk texlive-binaries thc-ipv6 thc-pptp-bruter thc-ssl-dos thin thunar thunar-archive-plugin thunar-gtkhash thunar-volman tmux tnftp tshark tumbler tumbler-common udisks2 unicornscan upower usb-modeswitch vboot-kernel-utils vboot-utils vim vim-common vim-gtk3 vim-gui-common vim-runtime vim-tiny vlc vlc-bin vlc-data vlc-plugin-access-extra vlc-plugin-base vlc-plugin-notify vlc-plugin-qt vlc-plugin-samba vlc-plugin-skins2 vlc-plugin-video-output vlc-plugin-video-splitter vlc-plugin-visualization voiphopper vpnc wget wine64 winexe wireless-tools wireplumber wireshark wireshark-common wpasupplicant x11-apps x11-session-utils x11-utils x11-xkb-utils x11-xserver-utils xdg-dbus-proxy xdg-desktop-portal xdg-desktop-portal-gtk xdg-user-dirs-gtk xfce4-appfinder xfce4-battery-plugin xfce4-clipman xfce4-clipman-plugin xfce4-cpufreq-plugin xfce4-cpugraph-plugin xfce4-datetime-plugin xfce4-diskperf-plugin xfce4-fsguard-plugin xfce4-genmon-plugin xfce4-netload-plugin xfce4-notifyd xfce4-panel xfce4-places-plugin xfce4-power-manager xfce4-power-manager-plugins xfce4-pulseaudio-plugin xfce4-screenshooter xfce4-sensors-plugin xfce4-session xfce4-settings xfce4-systemload-plugin xfce4-taskmanager xfce4-timer-plugin xfce4-verve-plugin xfce4-wavelan-plugin xfce4-whiskermenu-plugin xfce4-xkb-plugin xfconf xfdesktop4 xfwm4 xiccd xl2tpd xtightvncviewer yelp yersinia zerofree zsh The following packages will be upgraded: at-spi2-common atftpd atril-common base-files bash bluez-hcidump bsdextrautils bsdutils bulk-extractor burpsuite busybox cgpt clang cpp-13 cpp-13-x86-64-linux-gnu dbus dbus-bin dbus-daemon dbus-user-session dbus-x11 docbook-xml docker.io dpkg dpkg-dev eject exim4-config exploitdb ffmpeg fiked fonts-lyx g++-13 g++-13-x86-64-linux-gnu gcc-13 gcc-13-base gcc-13-x86-64-linux-gnu gcc-14-base gdal-data gdal-plugins gir1.2-ayatanaappindicator3-0.1 gir1.2-gdkpixbuf-2.0 gir1.2-gtkspell3-3.0 gir1.2-handy-1 gir1.2-harfbuzz-0.0 gir1.2-nm-1.0 gir1.2-notify-0.7 gir1.2-packagekitglib-1.0 gir1.2-secret-1 gir1.2-vte-2.91 gir1.2-wnck-3.0 gir1.2-xfconf-0 glib-networking-common golang-1.22-go golang-1.22-src graphicsmagick-imagemagick-compat groff-base grub-common grub-efi-amd64 grub-efi-amd64-bin grub2-common hashcat-data httrack ibverbs-providers imagemagick-6-common inetutils-telnet intel-media-va-driver jadx kali-desktop-base kali-desktop-core kali-desktop-xfce kali-linux-core kali-linux-default kali-linux-firmware kali-linux-large kali-system-cli kali-system-core kali-system-gui kali-themes kali-themes-common kali-tools-top10 kismet kismet-capture-common krb5-locales lib32gcc-s1 lib32stdc++6 libasan8 libasound2-data libatomic1 libavif16 libblkid1 libbluetooth-dev libbluetooth3 libboost-filesystem1.83.0 libboost-iostreams1.74.0 libboost-thread1.74.0 libboost-thread1.83.0 libbrlapi0.8 libc-bin libc-dev-bin libc-devtools libc-l10n libc6 libc6-dbg libc6-dev libc6-i386 libcaca0 libcc1-0 libcdt5 libcgraph6 libclang-rt-15-dev libclang-rt-16-dev libcom-err2 libdbus-1-3 libdbus-1-dev libde265-0 libdebconfclient0 libdebuginfod-common libdpkg-perl libfdisk1 libfftw3-double3 libfftw3-single3 libfstrm0 libgcc-13-dev libgcc-s1 libgdata-common libgdk-pixbuf2.0-common libgfortran5 libgl1-mesa-dev libglib2.0-data libgoa-1.0-common libgomp1 libgpg-error0 libgphoto2-l10n libgs-common libgsasl18 libgsf-1-common libgtk-4-common libgvpr2 libharfbuzz-icu0 libheif-plugin-aomenc libheif-plugin-dav1d libheif-plugin-libde265 libheif-plugin-x265 libheif1 libhivex0 libhunspell-1.7-0 libhwasan0 libibverbs1 libigdgmm12 libiniparser1 libinput-bin libitm1 libjbig2dec0 libkpathsea6 liblab-gamut1 libldap-common liblsan0 liblua5.1-0 liblua5.2-0 liblua5.3-0 liblua5.4-0 libmount1 libmujs3 libnet-dns-perl libnghttp2-14 libntlm0 libobjc-13-dev libobjc4 libodbc2 libodbcinst2 libopenblas0-pthread libopenjp2-7 libpam-gnome-keyring libpam-runtime libpam0g libpathplan4 libpcap-dev libpipewire-0.3-common libplist3 libpostproc57 libprotobuf-c1 libptexenc1 libpython3-dev libpython3-stdlib libqrencode4 libquadmath0 libradare2-common libselinux1 libsemanage2 libsharpyuv0 libslang2 libsmartcols1 libsnmp-base libsoup2.4-common libss2 libssh-gcrypt-4 libstdc++-13-dev libstdc++6 libswresample4 libsynctex2 libtexlua53-5 libtheora0 libtirpc-common libtsan2 libubsan1 libudev1 liburing2 libuuid1 libva-drm2 libva-wayland2 libva-x11-2 libva2 libwbclient0 libwebp7 libwebpdemux2 libwebpmux3 libwildmidi2 libwireshark-data libwmflite-0.2-7 libxfce4util-bin libxmuu1 libxpm4 linux-image-6.6.15-amd64 linux-image-amd64 locales logsave mariadb-common mariadb-plugin-provider-bzip2 mariadb-plugin-provider-lz4 mariadb-plugin-provider-lzma mariadb-plugin-provider-lzo mariadb-plugin-provider-snappy mingw-w64-common mingw-w64-i686-dev mingw-w64-x86-64-dev mount nano ncurses-base ncurses-bin ncurses-term net-tools nodejs-doc offsec-awae-python2 perl-modules-5.38 pev php8.2 pinentry-curses postgresql postgresql-client-common postgresql-common proj-data python-apt-common python-matplotlib-data python-tinycss2-common python3 python3-all python3-apispec python3-brlapi python3-celery python3-cupshelpers python3-dev python3-distutils python3-ecdsa python3-feedparser python3-filelock python3-hatchling python3-jose python3-kismetcapturebtgeiger python3-kismetcapturefreaklabszigbee python3-kombu python3-lib2to3 python3-marshmallow-sqlalchemy python3-matplotlib python3-mdit-py-plugins python3-memcache python3-minimal python3-mistune0 python3-numexpr python3-numpy python3-pandas python3-pandas-lib python3-plaster-pastedeploy python3-pydot python3-pyinstaller-hooks-contrib python3-pypsrp python3-reportlab python3-rq python3-speechd python3-stone python3-tinycss2 python3-tk python3-tqdm python3-vine python3-virtualenv python3-werkzeug readline-common rfkill ruby-dev ruby-i18n ruby-ipaddress ruby3.1-doc samba-ad-provision sslyze sucrack system-config-printer system-config-printer-common systemd-dev systemd-sysv tightvncpasswd tightvncserver truecrack tzdata tzdata-legacy udev util-linux util-linux-extra va-driver-all vlc-l10n wireless-regdb xbrlapi xfce4-helpers zlib1g zlib1g-dev 322 upgraded, 0 newly installed, 0 to remove and 885 not upgraded. 

Can someone tell me whats going on here? I dont see any new crazy releases on Kalis Website. So i am bit confused on why i had so many updates when im doing this update command weekly.
Thanks!
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Welcome to Solstice SMP, we foster a vibrant and inclusive community where players of all backgrounds unite to create unforgettable experiences. With rich lore embedded in every aspect, immersive role playing adventures await those who seek them. From grand builds to sprawling empires, Solstice SMP offers something for everyone. The medieval theme to our modpack ties it all together! Our tight-knit community values friendship, collaboration, and creativity, making every player feel like part of the family... with a touch of friendly competition. Engage in epic quests, fierce battles, and enjoy the camaraderie of your faction as you build and explore. Embark on a journey through time and fantasy, where your imagination sets the limits, whether you're a veteran or a newcomer Our server is more than just a place to play Minecraft; it's a cosy, welcoming space where you can truly feel at home!
What you can expect:
A community entirely driven forward by players Huge building opportunities, including as a community Community driven economy, through a reliable trust-based system, No overworld/nether resets, Friendly battles Community Events, Active and productive player-base!
The mods we feature:

• ORIGINS! We have custom races for each team/nation
• Dungeons now loading 1%
• Create Create Steam and Rails Farmers Delight
• When Dungeons Arise
• Sophisticated Backpacks AND Storage
• Universal Graves
• Hardcore Revival
• Terralith
• And even more!

Season 1 begins on June 1st (but even beyond that, you are still free to join), so don’t wait to hop on if you want to catch the ride early! We’re incredibly excited to welcome new players and can't wait to see the amazing adventures you'll embark on!
What are you waiting for?! Become apart of the community today! Comment your Discord username below, or add me on Discord unrivalry and shoot me a dm!

Hello everyone,
Maybe I (23M) just have the nerves and am looking for some words of advice/encouragement with this post. I don't really have anyone who I can consult with on this in my real life so maybe that's just what I was looking for on here.
I have recently been trying to put myself out there more to be more social and have more interesting hobbies/interests. I speak Japanese, so as part of this, I joined a weekly group for Japanese speakers to practice conversation skills and meet others who also speak the language. Joining this has been a really fun experience and I've been very fortunate to make a lot of friends so far.
We have a group of about 6 or 7 of us from the club who have all become mutual friends. We have hung out outside of the club, and have attended volunteer activities and social events together.
There is a girl(24 F) from this group, who I thought was cute since I met everyone at the club. I hadn't said anything in that sense to her, but we would talk occasionally at the club. A few weeks go we learned that we both did volleyball as a hobby. After the club, I messaged her and asked for some tips on volleyball. We ended up having a pretty long discussion about it and at the end she suggested we attend a pick-up game sometime. I agreed and we continued to talk 1-on-1 in messages.
We have done a few other group things, like go to a concert with our friends and have a board game night. That was fun. We eventually ended up going to volleyball and then went out to dinner afterwards. I thought it was a really nice time. We got along well alone, and she told me she thought my interest in trains was "cute." At the end we agreed we should do this again.
A few days later I asked if she was free soon, and if she would like to go to a museum with me and get dinner again afterwards. I intentionally wanted to do something not volleyball, to see if she would still be down to go out. She said she was free this weekend and we will be going this Saturday. I've been thinking about it a lot and I really want to tell her I like her at the end of Saturday, and ask if she would be interested in making the next one of these a date.
I guess I'm just nervous for a number of reasons. I don't have any experience that wasn't through OLD, where it is abundantly clear what you are both on there for. Secondly, we are part of a larger friend group, and I really hope to not make anything weird about this if I get rejected. I fully intend to take that with grace and immediately accept it and move on, I just hope it doesn't sour anything.
But, the voice in my head is telling me I should really do it. We are part of a larger group of mutual friends, and I feel like if this was strictly platonic, she would have suggested we invite them to come along with us as well, but she hasn't at all. She always responds to me within a day of messaging her, and if she doesn't she'll apologize for the late response. She wanted to sit next to me at the concert we went to with our friends, and when she was dropping us off afterwards I told her she could just drop me with our other friend and I'd walk the rest of the way, but she insisted on driving me home. I have very little experience with IRL dating/meeting people romantically and I think I feel like I am seeing signs of interest but just also feel like I might just be overanalyzing this situation.

Is it wrong for me to be upset of my drawing got erased?
It was free drawing time in art class. Im not used to draw with mouse, but i drew a really small drawing of my oc in the corner. It wasn't the best drawing. But i was so proud of it bc i thought it so cute. Basically i put a lot of effort. Then someone erased it and give me ":3". I was so upset i said it in chat TvT.
(If u feel like u need some other example: I usually draw with pencil on paper. But 1 day i decided to draw using paint instead. But right after i finish my drawing, someone came up to me, took my drawing and rip it apart and just smile to me; That's how i felt when they did that)
I'm so upset i decided to vent here. Also I didn't take pic or anything. Sorry for random post. ^ ^

Hey y'all! I am seeking abstracts for articles for a potential book project that will be themed around representations of mental illnesses/disorders/disabilities in reality television.
Please submit a 300 word abstract and 100 word bio by June 15, 2024 to [acabral@sfsu.edu](mailto:acabral@sfsu.edu). Once abstracts have been received, a full proposal will be submitted to the interested publisher (McFarland & Company) by July 15, 2024 and if accepted, essays/papers will be due by the end of October 2024. Full #callforpapers link is here: https://call-for-papers.sas.upenn.edu/cfp/2024/04/21/cfp-articles-about-mental-illnesses-in-reality-television-for-book-project
And definitely feel free to reach out even with just questions!

Intro:
I just saw a post here every day about a lonely guy and his struggles in dating.
When I read it, the frustration, sadness, and despair are palpable. But since 63% of young men are single, and half of male university students are virgins, I can understand why these posters aren’t happy.
The majority of men are lonely.
While I cannot solve this very real societal phenomenon, I will try to put things into perspective.
After all, trite as it may sound, life is truly about much more than dating. We’ll talk about this later on.
Before we begin, I would like to sincerely dedicate this post to all of those people who carry a void in their hearts every day.
I truly hope that reading the following will bring you at least a little peace of mind.
This is something that you need to tell yourself every single day. Life coaches and toxic PUAs like Andrew Tate are telling you to run game on 5 women every day, but I'm telling you to tell yourself this 5 times a day:
It's not your fault.
This should be said and emphasized a lot more. I want you guys to completely digest this idea. It is important to keep reminding yourself of this truth. Once you truly understand this, you will have a much more peaceful mindset.
The situation you are in was forced upon you.
Genetic determinism is anathema to most people. You will always see the fortunate, the lucky people try to take credit for their living situations, but they won't acknowledge the opportunities they were given.
I want you to understand something: when people tell you "you can do it, you can do anything," they are not saying it for your benefit. They are saying it to gaslight you and feel better about themselves. It implies that if you fail, it was because of something you did wrong.
"You could've done it, but you didn't, so it's your fault."
Don't let people gaslight you.
You look at a guy like Jeremy Meeks, scum of the earth. This guy is the personification of luck. The guy made the wrong choices and decisions at every step of the way, and he still made it as a multimillionaire top model, all because of his looks.
He comes from a broken family, he's a criminal, robber, gangster, beat an underage kid to near death, drug dealer, weapons charges, you fucking name it. Yet, women are worshiping him, literally worshiping him.
I ask you this: how many mistakes is too many? 10? 20? 50?
When you are good-looking, no amount is too many. Anything is forgivable.
​
"Anything is possible. Never give up. God's got a plan for you." - Jeremy Meeks
​
Well, when you look like him, yeah, of course anything is gonna be possible.
​
You look at a guy like Hunter Biden, drug addict and porn actor. Still, he's a board member of a nine-figure international investment firm. All because of his dad. All because he was lucky enough to be born into the Biden family.
You look at Elon Musk, richest guy on earth. He in turn comes from a dirty rich family that makes bank with him off of the backs of literal child slaves. His 80-year-old father made a child with his 30-year-old stepdaughter. Think about it, this guy was fucking 50 years old when he adopted that child.
These are morally bankrupt people, and yet you see the lives they are living.
You look at a guy like Bill Gates, whose classmates' parents literally bought a computer room for his high school during a time when even top U.S. universities didn't have computer rooms. Bill got to spend unlimited time with the latest and greatest computers as a child in the 1960s.
I am not saying Bill is dumb. Of course, you also need brains, but even intelligence is luck.
It's brutal how lucky you have to be in life. Not only do you need the smarts, but you need to be born in the right time and location into the right family. You think a smart kid who was born in a war-torn third-world country stands any chance?
Never.
Fucking never.
You gotta be lucky in this life. The most important factor governing success in life is luck. Looks will directly influence how you are treated by others from the day you were born, before you could even remember. Your neurotypicality, face, race, and height are paramount when it comes to how society will treat you (I have mountains of data at the above link, read it to see just how important these genetic factors are). This in turn shapes your personality.
Your intelligence, the opportunities you were born into, your gender; they are all important.
Even in the job market, just your gender influences your chances majorly.
Everything in life comes down to luck.
"Anything is possible, you can do anything."
No, you cannot do anything you want to in life, and it's not your fault. Genetic determinism and luck rule every aspect of your life.
You did nothing wrong.
So don't let anybody gaslight you.
Instead, don't be a free agent in life. Let the blackpill guide you.

There’s a lot to learn when you’re new to RVing. After purchasing your RV and equipping it with the right gear, the last thing you want is to feel overwhelmed trying to select where to camp. So we asked the question: what are the best RV trips for beginners?
Of course, we have our own opinions, but we wanted to see what the RV community felt. We asked experienced RVers which destinations or campgrounds they would recommend for beginners. With over 150 replies, here are the top five answers:

1. Somewhere close to home
2. State parks
3. Good Sam Campgrounds
4. Your backyard
5. National parks

(Runner-up: Wal-Mart parking lot).

Why Stay Close to Home on Your First RV Trip as a Beginner?

The overwhelming majority of experienced RVers recommended sticking to somewhere close to home as a beginner. Their reasons were practical:

• You know where to go (home or familiar stores) if you forget supplies.
• You’re not far from your community if you need help.
• If something breaks down, towing your RV back to your house won't take long or cost too much.
• You do less driving and more time getting familiar with your RV.
• You won’t hurt your wallet on gas expenses if you overpack (which most first-timers do!)

Boondocking in your backyard is a great way to learn about your RV and its systems. Just remember: Depending on your RV, you’ll need potable water, a way to empty your holding tanks, and a proper power supply – 30 or 50 amps.

Which Locations Make For The Best RV Trips for Beginners?

We collected specific recommendations for those who want to venture out while staying close to home. These came directly from experienced RVers nationwide who were willing to share their favorite destinations for RV newbies.
Because we don’t know where home is for you, we organized this list of the best RV trips for beginners and organized them by region.

The Best RV Trips for Beginners in the Northeast

Bayley’s Camping Resort – Scarborough, Maine

Park Features:

• 512 full hookup sites
• 75’ pull-thru sites
• 44’ back-in sites
• Weekly entertainment schedule
• Recreation facilities
• Pools, restaurants, camp stores, and an arcade

Learn more or Book now.

Kennebec River Campground – The Forks, Maine

Park Features:

• Six secluded RV sites with electric hookups
• Full restaurant and brewery with deck seating
• Swimming pool and hot tub
• Bathhouse with hot, running water
• Easy access to the Kennebec River
• Base camp for whitewater rafting, snowmobiling, and other Maine adventures

Learn more or Book now.

Gettysburg Battlefield RV Resort – Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Park Features:

• 250 RV sites
• 60’ maximum RV length
• Battlefield reenactment grounds, Olympic swimming pool, and stocked fishing pond
• Game room, general store, and ice cream parlor
• Canoe, kayak, and paddle boat rentals
• Themed activities, nature trail, and laundry facilities

Learn more.

Quechee / Pine Valley – Hartford, Vermont

Park Features:

• Full hookup RV sites (30 and 50 amp service)
• 85’ maximum RV length
• Off-leash dog park and activity field
• Bike, canoe, and banana bike rentals
• Heating swimming pool (open 5/27 to 9/5)
• Saturday hay rides, playground adventures, and family fishing at the pond

Learn more or Book now.

Cherrystone Campground – Cape Charles, Virginia

Park Features:

• Open seasonally from 4/1 to 10/31
• 181 full hookup 30 amp sites (87 wateelectric only 30 amp sites)
• 121 full hookup 50 amp sites
• Private beach, beach entry pool, and two Olympic-sized pools
• Lazy river, mini golf course, and four fishing piers
• Daily shuttle service into Downtown Cape Charles

Learn more.

Holiday Trav-L-Park – Virginia Beach, Virginia

Why They Recommended: “The place is pretty big (but tight, please know HOW to drive). It has seven pools, a bar, a restaurant, laundry, concerts, and a little trolley that will take you to the beach for even more entertainment.”
Park Features:

• 700 RV sites (full hookup and wateelectric only)
• Wooded, partly shaded, or open site locations
• Maximum RV length varies by site type
• On-site laundromat, Safari Cafe, and eight tiled comfort stations
• Trolley from the cafe to the beach and beyond
• Dog park, bike path, and convenience store

Learn more or Book now.

Virginia Beach Holiday – Virginia Beach, Virginia

Why They Recommended: “They just put in a lazy river and a brand new pool. It’s state-of-the-art!”
Park Features:

• Full hookup sites with 50, 30, and 20 amp compatibility
• 45’ maximum RV length
• Two heated pools, a lazy river, and a splash pad
• Trolley stop for exploring the nearby Virginia Beach waterfront
• Community bonfire, dog park, and electric vehicle charging station
• Bicycle, golf cart, and pedal cart rentals

Learn more or Book now.

New River Gorge Campground – Lansing, West Virginia

Park Features:

• Full hookup RV sites (30 and 50 amp)
• Views of ponds, sunsets, and nightly firefly displays (seasonally)
• Catch-and-release fishing
• Hiking and biking trails, swimming, and kayaking nearby
• Nearby rock climbing, rafting, and horseback riding

Learn more.

The Best RV Trips for Beginners in the Southeast

Wind Creek State Park – Alexander City, Alabama

Park Features:

• 586 campsites with wateelectric hookups
• 157 waterfront campsites and 268 full hookup sites with sewer
• Two laundry facilities at the marina and a bathhouse
• Archery range, fishing, and mini golf course
• Boat rentals, horseback rides, and zipline canopy tours
• Sunday services, swimming area, and outdoor pavilions

Learn more or Book now.

Everglades Isle – Everglades City, Florida

Park Features:

• 59 full hookup RV sites (30 and 50 amp)
• Concrete pads (waterfront and inland) with daily trash service
• Clubhouse laundry facilities and complimentary Wi-Fi
• Luxury clubhouse with drinks, food, billiards, movies, and more
• Fitness center, office space, and veranda seating
• Lounge area, salon, and spa

Learn more or Book now.

Orlando / Kissimmee – Kissimmee, Florida

Why They Recommended: “Orlando has the best prices all year round! It’s in close proximity to Universal Studios, Disney, Disney Springs, lots of attractions, several grocery stores, and restaurants. Target even ships deliveries there.”
Park Features:

• Full hookup RV sites with 134’ maximum RV length (30 and 50 amp)
• Bike rentals, mini pocket park, and access to the public bus service
• Dog park, outdoor pavilion, and fitness center
• Heated swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna (open year-round)
• Electric vehicle charging station and taxi service
• Jump pad and playground for the kids

Learn more or Book now.

Fisheating Creek Outpost – Palmdale, Florida

Why They Recommended: “The lots have much more space than most parks. You are not three feet from your neighbor.”
Park Features:

• 18,000+ acre wildlife management area
• 48 full hookup RV sites (5 of which are ADA-accessible)
• The swimming area at Depot Lake
• Large pond with two islands near the Camp Store
• Canoe rentals and Riverside Cafe (open seasonally)
• Large screened recreation area with central bathhouse

Learn more or Book now.

Big Lagoon State Park – Pensacola, Florida

Park Features:

• ~75 campsites (some RV or tent, some tent-only, some RV-only)
• 40’ maximum RV length
• Swimming, boating, fishing, and paddling
• Biking, stargazing, and geocaching
• Access to the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail
• Boat launch, playground, and amphitheater

Learn more or Book now.

Jetty Park Campground – Port Canaveral, Florida

Park Features:

• 358 total sites (variety of water-only and wateelectric hookups)
• Bathhouses and communal fire pits.
• Views of rocket launches from Canaveral Air Force Station
• Shuffleboard courts and horseshoe pits
• Daily arrivals and departures of cruise ships and submarines
• Camp store and nearby fishing pier

Learn more or Book now.

Smith Ridge Campground – Campbellsville, Kentucky

Park Features:

• 80 campsites (62 with water and electric hookups)
• Flush toilets, showers, fire rings, and potable water
• Kid’s playground and easy access to miles of hiking trails
• Frisbee golf course, boat ramp, and swimming beach
• Fishing pier, marina, and picnic areas

Learn ore.

Mountain Stream RV Park – Marion, North Carolina

Park Features:

• 44 full hookup sites (30 and 50 amp)
• 45’ maximum RV length
• Access to Buck Creek along two edges of the campground
• Five miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway
• Dog park, kid’s playground, and outdoor pavilion
• Camp store and bathhouse with showers and toilets

Learn more or Book now.

North Myrtle Beach RV Resort – Little River, South Carolina

Park Features:

• Oversized full hookup sites and a fully-stocked camp store
• Views of the nearby Intracoastal Waterway
• Swimming pool with a slide and splash pad for the kids
• 60-slip boat dock with observation deck
• Live music every weekend during the summer
• Food and drinks on the water at the Tiki Bar and Grill

Learn more or Book now.

Myrtle Beach State Park – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Park Features:

• 140 standard water and electric campsites
• 138 full hookup sites
• All sites are located about 300 yards from the beach
• 30-40’ maximum RV length
• Beach access for pets and bikes is restricted to certain time periods (see site for more info)
• Nearby access to birding, fishing, swimming, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and more

Learn more or Book now.

PirateLand Family Camping Resort – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Park Features:

• 748 full hookup sites
• Access to free Wi-Fi and daily trash pickup at each site
• Gated entrance with 24/7 patrol crew
• Eight climate-controlled bathhouses with toilets and showers
• Fully stocked camp store, outdoor chapel, and laundry facility
• On-site water park with Olympic swimming pool, lazy river, and more

Learn more or Book now.

Ocean Lakes Family Campground – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Park Features:

• 859 full hookup sites with free Wi-Fi
• 649 concrete pad sites with 45’ maximum RV length
• 19 total beach accesses
• Three-acre family fun center with game center, mini golf, swimming pool, and more
• Volleyball, shuffleboard, and basketball courts
• Nearby Ocean Lakes Nature Center Discover Lab with more than 10,000 shells and fossils

Learn more or Book now.

Anchor Down RV Resort – Dandridge, Tennessee

Park Features:

• 170 concrete full hookup sites
• All sites at least 50’ long by 18’ wide (sites differ by type and location)
• Basketball, gaga ball, pickleball, and volleyball courts
• Boat, jet ski, and golf cart rentals
• Leash-free pet park, beach area, and campground cafe
• Saltwater kiddie pool and large pool with waterslide (open Memorial Day to Labor Day)

Learn more or Book now.

Cherokee Dam Campground – Jefferson City, Tennessee

Park Features:

• 44 total sites (39 with water and electric)
• Views of the lake and mountains from nearly every site
• Sites require a two-night minimum stay
• The use of a water pressure regulator is highly recommended
• Nearby access to swimming and birdwatching
• Large public boat ramp nearby

Learn more or Book now.

Melton Hill Dam Campground – Lenoir City, Tennessee

Park Features:

• 61 total sites (35 with water and electric)
• Sites require a two-night minimum stay
• Two bathhouses with showers and flush toilets
• Designated swimming area
• Canoe and boat ramp access
• Free dump station access

Learn more or Book now.

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Lodge – Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Park Features:

• Full hookup concrete campsites
• Complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV
• Nearby Fin City Entertainment Center with arcade, bowling, billiards, and more
• Nearby pool recreation area with water slides, lazy river, and kid zone
• Pet park, camp store, and kid’s playground
• Live entertainment, breakfast buffet, and barestaurant

Learn more or Book now.

Little Arrow Outdoor Resort – Townsend, Tennessee

Park Features:

• Luxury and standard full hookup RV sites
• Luxury sites with outdoor sink and cabana
• Standard sites with paved patios and fire rings
• 24/7 coffee lounge with playroom and movie/book exchange
• Zero-entry pool with grottos, hot tub, and splash pad
• 1-2 miles of quiet, peaceful hiking trails

Learn more or Book now.

The Best RV Trips for Beginners in the Midwest

Sycamore Springs Park – English, Indiana

Park Features:

• 30 and 50-amp sites with a 55’ minimum site length
• Full hookup, wateelectric, and primitive camping available
• Free firewood and fire pits on all sites
• Modern restrooms and shower houses
• Family-friendly camping with no alcohol allowed on the grounds
• Fishing, hiking and picnicking available

Learn more or Book now.

Lake Rudolph Campground and RV Resort – Santa Claus, Indiana

Park Features:

• Open season 5/1 to 10/31
• 146 full hookup 50-amp sites
• 110 full hookup 30-amp sites
• Gem mining, golf cart rentals, and take-out dining
• Swimming pool, dog park, and water park
• Free shuttle service to the theme park and water park

Learn more.

Grand Haven State Park – Grand Haven, Michigan

Park Features:

• 48-acre park with Lake Michigan to the west and the Grand River to the north
• 174 paved campsites
• Steps away from the beach and the river
• Scenic views of the Grand Haven pier and two lighthouses
• Boardwalk along the Grand River for fishing or walking
• Accessible playground, picnic area, and modern restrooms

Learn more or Book now.

Otsego Lake State Park – Gaylord, Michigan

Park Features:

• 155 campsites (split between the North and South campgrounds)
• Half-mile sandy beach with designated swim area
• Kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals for day-use
• Nearby access to the Iron Belle Trail for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling
• Fishing pier and boat launch
• Designated beach area for metal detecting

Learn more or Book now.

Itasca State Park – Park Rapids, Minnesota

Park Features:

• 223 drive-in campsites in two campgrounds (160 electric-only)
• 60’ maximum RV length
• Seasonal dump station available in the Bear Paw Campground
• Interpretive exhibits and year-round naturalist programs
• Two-hour excursion boat tours of Lake Itasca
• Nearby restaurant and cafe (open seasonally)

Learn more or Book now.

Silver Dollar City Campground – Branson, Missouri

Park Features:

• Full hookup sites (30 and 50 amp)
• Picnic table and fire ring at each site
• Kid’s playground and swimming pool (open 5/28-9/5)
• Nearby theme park, water park, and dinner cruises
• Clubhouse with supplies and an air-conditioned lounge with Wi-Fi
• Complimentary shuttle service into Silver Dollar City

Learn more or Book now.

Lake Mcconaughy State Recreation Area – Brule, Nebraska

Park Features:

• Seven developed campgrounds
• Reservable and first-come, first-served campsites
• Reservable beach camping in 17 designated zones
• Reservations required 5/20 to 9/10
• Archery range, swimming, and playground
• Boating, fishing, and hunting

Learn more or Book now.

Mt. Gilead Holiday – Mt. Gilead, Ohio

Park Features:

• 150 acres of walking trails
• Dog park, playground, and fishing ponds
• Golf driving range
• Zero-entry swimming pool (open 5/26-9/4)
• Golf course rentals, sand volleyball, and ‘The Bonfire Bar’

Learn more or Book now.

The Best RV Trips for Beginners in the South

The Woodlands RV Resort – Heber Springs, Arkansas

Park Features:

• 71 full hookup sites
• Five minutes from beaches, boat ramps, restaurants, and a golf course
• Easy access to hiking and biking trails
• Swimming pool, playground, and fishing pond
• Bathhouse, laundry room, and dog run coming soon

Learn more or Book now.

Sarah’s Seaside RV Oasis – Grand Isle, Louisiana

Why They Recommended: It’s the most laid back!
Park Features:

• Full hookup sites (30 and 50 amp)
• Family and pet-friendly
• Walking distance from restaurants, shopping, and bars
• Renowned for nearby world-class fishing and birdwatching
• Seasonal events like holiday decorating contests, seafood boils, movie nights, and more

Learn more.

The Best RV Trips for Beginners in the Southwest

Mather Campground – Grand Canyon Village, Arizona

Park Features:

• 327 primitive campsites with fire rings, a cooking grate, and a picnic table
• Flush toilets and drinking water spigots throughout
• Free dump station at Camper Services nearby
• Generators not permitted in Pine Loop (sites 265-319)
• Easy access to a paved walking and biking trail leading to overlooks and the visitor center

Learn more.

Tucson Lazydays – Tucson, Arizona

Park Features:

• 360 full hookup sites
• 73’ maximum RV length
• Pet-friendly sites, dog park, and dog wash available
• Two swimming pools, a hot tub, and a sauna (open year-round)
• Mini golf, bike rentals, workout room, and more

Learn more or Book now.

Caballo Lake State Park – Caballo, New Mexico

Park Features:

• Seven full hookup sites
• 98 water and electric (30 amp) sites
• 10 water and electric (50 amp) sites
• Three boat docks and two boat ramps
• Playgrounds and visitor centers with interactive exhibits for the kids
• Fishing, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, and more

Learn more or Book now.

The Best RV Trips for Beginners in the Northwest

Coloma Resort – Coloma, California

Park Features:

• 43 full hookup sites
• 45’ maximum RV length
• Sewer hookups are available at off-river sites only
• Calendar of naturalist-led activities available (summer months only)
• Exclusive riverfront access with nearby kayaking, tubing, and rafting
• Swimming pool and children’s playgrounds
• Wireless internet throughout the campground

Pro Tip: You must cross the Mt. Murphy Bridge to reach this campground. Here are the height and weight restrictions for that bridge:

• Max Height: 13' 6
• Max Weight for 2 Axle vehicles: 12 Tons (24,000 pounds)
• Max Weight for 3 Axle vehicles: 19 Tons (38,000 pounds)

Learn more or Book now.

Arrowhead RV Park – Cascade, Idaho

Park Features:

• 116 full hookup sites
• Easy access to the Payette River for fishing or paddling
• Shuffleboard and horseshoe pit for family entertainment
• Communal firepit on the edge of the river
• Recreation room with books, board games, and movies

Learn more or Book now.

St. Mary / East Glacier – St. Mary, Montana

Why They Recommended: “Beautiful views right from the park!”
Park Features:

• 75’ maximum RV length
• 30 and 50-amp sites
• Large hot tub, pool, and sauna (seasonally)
• Kayak rentals and easy access to the Lower St. Mary Lake & River
• Dog kennels and dog walking service (for when you want to explore nearby Glacier National Park)

Learn more or Book now.

Cape Blanco State Park – Port Orford, Oregon

Park Features:

• 52 electric hookup sites with water
• Easy access to wildlife viewing, fishing, and horse trails
• Beach access and hiking trails
• Flush toilets and hot showers
• Lighthouse and Hughes House for historical tours

Learn more or Book now.

Seven Feathers RV Resort – Canyonville, Oregon

Park Features:

• 182 full hookup sites
• 60’ maximum pull-thru size
• 55’ maximum back-in size
• Hotel and casino across the street
• Indoor heated pool and hot tub
• Fitness and media centers

Learn more or Book now.
Want to add your advice to our poll? Click below to join the conversation!
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Which destinations would you recommend for first-time RVers? Share your tips in the comments below.

Description: Your girlfriend loves you more than anything and she's in a mushy mood right now, so get ready for her to tell you all about it.
[START]
Girlfriend: "Hey darling."
Girlfriend: "You know what?"
Girlfriend: "I love you."
Sound of her kissing the listener a couple of times.
Girlfriend: "Well I'm feeling pretty mushy right now, so I hope you're prepared."
Girlfriend: "Get your lap ready."
Sound of her cuddling up on the listener's lap.
Girlfriend: "The best seat in the house."
Sound of her kissing the listener again.
Girlfriend: "I'm fortunate to have you in my life."
Girlfriend: "And even though I say it to you daily, I still feel like it'll never be enough."
Girlfriend: "But I'll never grow tired of saying it, so no complaints here."
Girlfriend: "You're amazing~"
Girlfriend: "Urgh, no, you are amazing."
Girlfriend: "That's the one part of you that I'm not in agreement with, saying you aren't literally the best thing ever? that's absolutely bullshit and you know it!"
Girlfriend: "You're art, inside and out."
Girlfriend: "But unlike art, I don't have to look at it and imagine what it would be like to have a life with you."
Girlfriend: "Instead I get to cuddle, squeeze, kiss, hold, and carry the shit out of you."
Girlfriend: "One of these days you'll see it the way I do and say out loud how perfect and hot you are."
Girlfriend: "But for now, I'll just say it for you instead."
Sound of her tracing her fingers along the listener's ears.
Girlfriend: "What? you know I can't keep my fingers from you."
Girlfriend: "And I know you like it~"
Girlfriend: "Mhm, this was all part of my plan, now you're trapped in the mush zone forever."
Girlfriend: "I love you too dear~"
Sound of her kissing the listener again.
Girlfriend: "I never thought my life would go this way, but damm am I glad it it."
Girlfriend: "Being able to spend every day with you, having people throwing me jealous looks when we go out, what's not to love?"
Girlfriend: "Oh trust me dear, you get a lot of not-so-sneaky glances when we're out and about."
Girlfriend: "But since you're such a precious bean you don't notice."
Girlfriend: "I get it though, you're hot, I mean dayum." Giggles.
Girlfriend: "Excuse me, I'm not a horndog, I'm your horndog, get it right."
Girlfriend: "No better way to get good dreams than to fall asleep to the sigh of this pretty face every night~"
Girlfriend: "And don't get me started on our showers every morning, oh my~"
Girlfriend: Laughs. "Alright, alright."
Girlfriend: "Getting back to the mushy stuff."
Girlfriend: "I don't just love the bigger, more obvious things about you."
Girlfriend: "I also love all your small quirks, the things that take a while to notice."
Girlfriend: "Like that cute thoughtful look you have when you're cooking."
Girlfriend: "Or how about the way you kiss my shoulder in your sleep whenever you're the little spoon."
Girlfriend: "It's why I prefer to be the big spoon."
Girlfriend: "Oh I have a bunch more I could list."
Girlfriend: "Sometimes you talk in your sleep."
Girlfriend: "You drink cherry soda only on Thursday."
Girlfriend: "And you're a lightning-fast reader."
Girlfriend: "The list goes on..."
Girlfriend: "No need to get shy."
Girlfriend: "Like I said, I love all of your quirks."
Girlfriend: "They're an important part of the perfect art piece you are."
She stops playing with the listener's ears.
Girlfriend: "No need to pout dear, I'll get to your ears in a moment."
Girlfriend: "But first I want a nice big squeeze."
Sound of her wrapping the listener in a tight hug.
Girlfriend: "Yeah, yeah."
Girlfriend: "You'll get your ear scratchies."
She resumes playing with the listener's ears.
Girlfriend: "So needy~"
Girlfriend: "I'm just teasing."
Girlfriend: "I'm glad you love this kind of thing, gives me an excuse to have my hands all over you~"
Girlfriend: "Nope, no plans."
Girlfriend: "Just me and you, cuddling, enjoying each other's presence."
Girlfriend: "Unless of course, you wanna cuddle in the bed instead."
Girlfriend: "Dips on being the big spoon."
Girlfriend: "Sorry, maybe next time."
Girlfriend: "You know that pout isn't very effective when you're melting into my arms."
Girlfriend: "Come on, give me a smile."
Girlfriend: "Please?"
Girlfriend: "Just one smile for little ole' me?"
Girlfriend: Giggles. "There it is."
Sound of her kissing the listener.
Girlfriend: "How was kiss 7467?"
Girlfriend: "Good answer."
Girlfriend: "Seriously though, every kiss gets better and better~"
Girlfriend: "You know what's gonna be the best kiss though?"
Girlfriend: "The one after I say I do."
Girlfriend: "And to tell you the truth?"
Girlfriend: "I think that kiss might be very soon~"
Audio slowly fades out as she talks.
Girlfriend: "Darling?"
Girlfriend: "Hello?"
Girlfriend: "Oh no, I think I broke you..."
Girlfriend: "Guess I'll have to get another one..."
Girlfriend: Laughs. "I'm kidding, I'm kidding!"
Girlfriend: "You're the only one for me."
[END]
Constructive Criticism is welcome, I would love to know your thoughts.
If someone wants to record this and release it on any platform, they can do so if credit and/or a link to this post are provided.
Monetization is okay with all of my scripts, no matter the platform. (This includes platforms like Patreon as well, though if I could, I'd like to listen to the recording at least once.)
If you want to make any changes to the script, please ask me first, unless I have already given you specific permission for either this or all of my scripts.
List of all of my scripts:
Part 1 - https://www.reddit.com/ASMRScriptHaven/comments/s24un1/master_list_of_my_scripts_f4a_all_are_free_to_use/
Part 2 - https://www.reddit.com/ASMRScriptHaven/comments/1777754/master_list_of_my_scripts_part_2_f4a_all_a_free/

Usually i get like one beetle and forget about it till it dies but I started breeding Sparmannia flava from the april event cause theyre cute.. i expanded my beetle slots to 16 beetles so i can keep my lines going and ive even gotten a few beetle slots for free by battling. Its actually pretty fun to do on the side. I thought beetles can only be the color of their parents but i got a Dutch from a Broken and Chinchilla pairing so its fun to see what colors you get. This is one of my rare ones
https://preview.redd.it/yk8v4nglut1d1.png?width=435&format=png&auto=webp&s=9692385729c08b24340c45d1f5bb47cc87b919ef

Ahoy there! We're on the lookout for one more to join our crew on a Pathfinder 2e nautical campaign. One of our crewmates is currently sailing (studying) abroad for a semester, and we are planning to add a 4th to a group that will become 5 total upon his return.
About the Campaign: We are journeyman pirates, each of us apprenticing under some significantly more experienced officers while dreaming of riches and adventure. As the campaign unfolds, we’ll acquire our very own ship, ready to raid and conquer the vast oceans in our GM’s homebrew campaign setting. But beware, the seas are treacherous, and only the most cunning and courageous will carve their names into the annals of maritime legend. This campaign is aiming to focus on light-hearted shenanigans in a hard-hearted world on the open ocean.
We are currently set to prepare on a months-long voyage to an isle of (potentially) undead in search of a specific person our captain is looking for. Plenty of adventure and exploration awaits!
The party just hit level 3, so that will be the starting level of our new crewmate. The party consists of a Laughing Shadow Magus, an Angel Eidolon Summoner, a Mentalist Familiar Wizard, and an Animal Companion Precision Ranger (on hiatus).
If you are curious as to what style of world we will be playing in, our GM has given us a short summary of what to expect. Feel free to read it!
The World
Ship Encounters: Our DM has created bespoke Pathfinder-friendly rules for ship encounters, adding an extra layer of sea travel and combat. These rules are very granular, so being interested in engaging with this system is a must. This is a new system that we'll navigate together and if playtesting shows things need to be changed, they will be changed (we have already adjusted the system once, and we'll surely do so again if needed). Brace yourselves for naval battles, daring escapes, and unforeseen challenges on the open waters.
Each player will have an assigned role as part of the ship's crew, and these roles are what we will use for ship-to-ship encounters. There are more roles than there will be players, and each role is unique- no double dipping! Also, they are flexible enough to fit multiple attributes, so as long as you can come up with an appropriate reason for it, you can select most stats for the role's key ability score. Roles already taken: Captain, Master, Man-at-Arms. Our Quartermaster is on hiatus.
Roles Aboard The Ship:
Taken- Captain: The leader of the crew, making crucial decisions in the heat of battle and steering the ship to victory. The captain is not the king of the ship, majority rule has powerful sway and the captain’s decision may not always be a final one.
Taken- Master: The navigator and cartographer, guiding the ship through waters, setting course to engage and fleeing combat when in rough waters.
Available- Ship's Mate: The right-hand to the Captain, managing the crew’s morale and assisting in various other ship functions.
Available- Gunner: Mastering the ship's cannons, turning the tide of battle with precise and devastating firepower.
Available- Surgeon: Healing wounds and curing ailments, ensuring the crew is always ready for the next adventure.
Taken- Quartermaster: Managing supplies, overseeing critical repairs, negotiating with ports, and keeping the ship's stores in check.
Taken- Man-at-Arms: Leader of the marines on board, skilled in combat for boarding and plundering.
Other Optional Rules: We are also using the popular Ancestral Paragon and Free Archetype rules, with FAs pending DM approval. We also use incremental level up rules, where you gain one attribute point at each at levels 2-5, rather than getting all 4 at level 5.
Other than these three rules, we plan to run the game entirely RAW. We will also be running everything per the remaster.
About the group: Our group has been playing together for the past 4 years. Although most of our experience is in 5e, we have recently switched to pathfinder. One of the players is very experienced in pathfinder, while the other three have about a year's worth, the rest of their TTRPG experience notwithstanding. There will be a learning curve, especially post-remaster, as we still get our spell names mixed up on occasion.
Additionally, our GM has double-digit years of tabletop experience, including multiple in Pathfinder.
We use voice chat on discord for sessions and foundry for our virtual tabletop.
This will be a strategic and lighthearted pirate themed Pathfinder 2e experience. If you're interested in joining us, please fill out the form below!
The Fooooooooorm!