Finn Tresscoat, a 20-year-old with short dark brown hair, brown eyes, and a pale complexion, strolled down the sidewalk of his small town. He wore a light brown leather jacket over a black shirt, paired with black jeans and black-and-white sneakers.
As Finn ambled along, he glanced at the many shops lining the main road of the town's bustling center. He wasn't searching for anything in particular; he simply wanted to enjoy the rare day off from his job, one of the most perilous occupations in the United West (U.W.).
"Finn! Oh, Finn!"
Finn turned his head to the right and spotted Ms. Tori Elortor, or simply Ms. Tori as he called her. She was an older lady in her early fifties, though her youthful appearance often surprised the townsfolk. With long white hair cascading down her back, pale skin, and bright hazel eyes, she was a striking figure. Today, she wore a navy blue sundress over a pair of tight blue jeans and brown cowboy boots.
Ms. Tori, the local bakery owner, was considered quite attractive and often caught the eye of the younger men in town. Her curvaceous figure and active lifestyle, including regular yoga sessions in the park, only added to her allure. However, Finn saw her differently. Having known her since childhood and feeling like part of her family, he saw her as a maternal figure rather than anything else. He was also close to her son, Eric, feeling like an older brother to him.
Despite his demanding job, which kept him busy for nearly twenty-four-seven, Finn always tried to visit Ms. Tori and Eric whenever he could. Today was a rare opportunity for him to relax and reconnect.
"Ah, hi Ms. Tori! How are you today?" Finn greeted her with a warm smile.
Ms. Tori returned his smile. "I'm just fine, Finn. The real question is, how are you? I haven't seen you in months!" Her tone shifted to one of concern. "I was worried, and so was Eric. You do have quite a dangerous job for someone so young," she added.
What kind of dangerous job did Finn have, you might ask?
Well, Finn was a "Gaunt Hunter," a member of a specialized group tasked with safeguarding the small towns outside the major cities in the United West from creatures known as Gaunts.
These slim, humanoid creatures had leathery black skin, no eyes or nose, and wide mouths that drooled a strange dark green liquid. They had emerged after the cataclysmic "Decade of Winter."
The Gaunts varied in form and capability. Some were very muscular, while others had bat-like wings, allowing them to fly. They were also cunning, often creating weapons from scavenged materials and hunting in packs.
Disturbingly, these were just the common variants.
There were tales of Gaunts resembling animals and some that could even speak, though Finn himself had never encountered such anomalies.
Despite the ominous title of Gaunt Hunter, Finn's role wasn't as glamorous as one might imagine.
He wasn't a high-tech, gadget-wielding hero. Gaunt Hunters received training similar to regular police officers, focusing on the use of firearms. However, since firearms were not commonly traded or shipped to the smaller towns outside the major cities, Gaunt Hunters were also taught to wield swords, knives, and other melee weapons, as well as trained in close-range combat.
Finn had been trained to fire a pistol but also learned to fight with a machete, which was more practical for their needs than a traditional sword. On duty, he carried a standard-issue Glock-17 and a machete strapped to his side. He also wore the standard protective gear issued to United West Security Forces (UWSF) officers.
Returning to the conversation with Ms. Tori, Finn let out a lighthearted chuckle. "Dangerous for most of the veterans on the job, but I'm young and fit! Practically invincible!" he said with a grin.
Ms. Tori gave Finn an unimpressed look, raising an eyebrow. "Is that right?" she asked. "Then what's this I hear about a Gaunt nearly taking your head off just last week?"
Finn's face flushed with embarrassment as he recalled the incident. A Gaunt had caught him off guard and nearly decapitated him with a makeshift axe. "Okay... yeah, fair enough," he admitted, looking down.
Ms. Tori's expression softened, and she gave him a few light taps on the shoulder. "Oh, I'm not trying to make you feel bad, Finn, I'm just reminding you that your job is dangerous… You need to be careful," she said gently.
Finn looked up at her and nodded. "I know, and thank you for caring," he replied. Inwardly, he thought, 'It's not like anyone else does'
"Of course, I care, Finn," Ms. Tori said firmly. "Do you know how devastated I'd be if you got hurt or, heaven forbid, died? I'd be heartbroken,” she told him. “Eric would be even worse off, after all, who would play with him?"
Finn felt a wave of warmth at her words. Despite not wanting to worry Ms. Tori or Eric, it was comforting to know there were people who cared about him, and who wanted him to stay safe and come back home. "I guess you're right," he said with a soft smile. "I'll try to be more careful out there, I promise,”
Ms. Tori nodded, her smile lingering. "Good,” she said. “Now, how many days do you have off?" she asked.
"Not many," Finn replied with a sigh. "Just today,"
Ms. Tori's eyes widened in shock. "Only today? Why?" She asked.
Finn's expression turned serious. "Many of the other Gaunt Hunters are either dead, retiring, or switching to become cops... There are only ten of us left in the entire town,"
Ms. Tori's eyes widened in horror. Gaunt Hunters were the primary defense against the Gaunts. The law across the U.W. dictated that local law enforcement dealt with human issues, leaving Gaunt-related threats to the Hunters. The thought of their numbers dwindling was terrifying.
Each town was supposed to have a contingent of Gaunt Hunters, given that small towns were the primary targets for Gaunt attacks.
Major cities, in contrast, rarely had to deal with Gaunts.
The dense populations of these urban centers acted as a deterrent, scaring off most Gaunt packs. Even if a small group of Gaunts did manage to attack, the cities were equipped with heavy weaponry and advanced defenses, making Gaunt Hunters unnecessary there.
This starkly contrasted with the dire need for Gaunt Hunters in the smaller, more vulnerable towns.
Ideally, each small town would have around fifty Gaunt Hunters, a number intended to ensure adequate protection against the Gaunt threat. However, the reality was far grimmer. The inherent dangers and heavy responsibilities associated with the job dissuaded many from becoming Gaunt Hunters. The perilous nature of the work, combined with the constant threat of death, resulted in a severe shortage of recruits.
As a result, the numbers in many towns had dwindled alarmingly.
"Only ten?" she repeated her voice barely above a whisper. "That's... alarming… What happens if more Gaunts come?"
"We do our best," Finn said, trying to sound confident. "But it's tough… Every day, we’re stretched thinner,"
Ms. Tori took a deep breath, trying to process the gravity of the situation.
Finn felt a lump in his throat. "I promise, Ms. Tori. I'll do everything I can to stay safe," he said, trying to remind her if his promise mere moments ago.
Ms. Tori wanted to argue with Finn's comment, but deep down, she knew he was somewhat right. The town was struggling—trade had slowed to a trickle, and many residents had moved away. The constant threat of Gaunt attacks made living there increasingly untenable. Even Ms. Tori had considered leaving to ensure Eric’s safety and to give him a chance to grow up in a more stable environment where he could interact with other children and experience the broader world.
However, she couldn’t bring herself to leave.
Her late husband was buried in this town, and even though years had passed since his death, she felt tied to the place where he rested. She had loved this town deeply, and in a way, staying felt like keeping a part of him alive.
Seeing the conflict in her eyes, Finn decided to change the subject. "Hey, why don't I come over for dinner?" he suggested with a soft smile. "I'm sure Eric would be happy to see me after so long,”
Ms. Tori was pulled out of her thoughts by his offer. She smiled, grateful for his willingness to spend his rare day off with them. "That would be lovely, Finn," she said with a quick nod.
They walked together to Ms. Tori's home, a modest three-bedroom house with a large attic. Inside, they found Eric sitting in front of the TV, watching cartoons. Hearing Finn’s voice, Eric turned, his face lighting up with excitement. He jumped out of his seat and ran to give Finn a hug.
Eric was about 11 years old, with brown hair like his deceased father but hazel eyes like his mother. He was wearing a dark black and blue striped shirt, dark gray pants, and black slip-on shoes.
Finn hugged him back, smiling. "I've got some stories to tell over dinner," he said, which made Eric's eyes sparkle with anticipation.
He loved hearing about the world beyond their town, even if it was mostly filled with woods and the ruins of an old world.
Finn then followed Ms. Tori into the kitchen to help prepare dinner. He found what he could and handed the items to her, glad to be of assistance. Ms. Tori thanked him and asked if he could help chop vegetables, which he was more than happy to do.
As they worked side by side, Ms. Tori glanced at Finn, her expression a mix of gratitude and concern. "You know, Finn, this town means a lot to me,” she told him “It’s where I built my life with my husband, and it’s where I want Eric to grow up, despite everything,"
Finn nodded, understanding the deep attachment she had. "I get it, Ms. Tori. This place has a lot of memories, and as long as I'm here, I'll do my best to keep it safe for you and Eric,"
Ms. Tori smiled warmly. "I know you will, Finn... Thank you,”
Dinner was a warm, lively affair. Eric listened intently to Finn’s stories, hanging on every word. The laughter and conversation filled the small home, creating a moment of normalcy amidst the chaos of their world. For a brief time, the threats outside seemed distant, and they enjoyed the simple pleasure of being together.
After a few bites, Eric looked at Finn eagerly. "Can you tell me one of your stories, Finn?" he asked, his eyes bright with anticipation.
Finn nodded, swallowing a mouthful of food. "Well, a couple of days ago, I was out with two or three other Hunters, we had just finished fighting off a few Gaunts, once they were dealt with, we decided to explore the area since it was the site of an old abandoned amusement park,” he began. “Some of the rides were still standing, though most were broken and destroyed, it was interesting to see the tech they used to have back then," Finn recounted.
Eric's eyes widened with excitement. "Wow! That's awesome!" he exclaimed.
Finn grinned. "It was pretty cool, but it’s nothing compared to some of the parks I saw in Salton Lake City! Those places are amazing,"
Eric's eyes gleamed at the mention of the nearby city. "Man, I want to go there someday!" he said enthusiastically. "Maybe when I start my training to be a Gaunt Hunter," he added with a big smile.
Finn chuckled. "So, you want to be a Gaunt Hunter, huh?" he asked. "You think you’ve got what it takes?"
Eric nodded vigorously. "Uh-huh! I know I can be a Gaunt Hunter! I bet I can even be better than you!" he declared, pointing at Finn.
Finn raised an eyebrow, amused. "Oh really?" he said. "Who's to say I'm not the best of the best, huh?"
Eric gave him a smug smirk. "Because if you were the best Hunter, you'd have already gotten rid of all the Gaunts!" he said confidently.
Finn chuckled. "Well, you got me there," he admitted. "But hey, if you think you can be the best and get rid of all the Gaunts, then I say go for it, dude."
Eric chuckled and resumed eating, his enthusiasm undimmed. Ms. Tori watched the two with a fond smile, marveling at the brotherly bond between them. It warmed her heart to see how close they had become. She knew that Finn cherished this connection just as much as Eric did, especially since Finn had grown up without a family of his own, raised in the local orphanage.
She recalled those early days when a young Finn would walk into the bakery, clutching a few coins. His eyes would light up with wonder at the sight of the treats and goodies lining the shelves. Something about him had touched her heart, and she began offering him free treats for him and the other orphans whenever he visited. Her late husband had also taken a liking to Finn, treating him like the son they never had. When Finn decided to become a Gaunt Hunter, it was her husband who had helped him prepare for the rigorous training, getting him into shape and offering constant encouragement.
After her husband's death, it was Finn who helped her grieve and find the strength to carry on. She had felt terrible about leaning on him during such a hard time, knowing he had his own sadness to deal with, yet he remained steadfast and strong. He had been there for her and for Eric, helping the young boy understand their loss and navigate the difficult times that followed.
She was truly grateful to have Finn in her life.
Suddenly, Finn's phone vibrated insistently in his pocket. He quickly reached for it and saw a text message from work. He opened it, dreading what it might say.
[~Finn, we need you tonight. Jon and Gary quit out of the blue, so we need someone to fill in.~]
Finn sighed, frustration bubbling up inside him. 'Great, now we're down to eight Hunters,' he thought. 'And Jon and Gary were both my age and in better shape than the veterans at the station.'
Ms. Tori noticed the change in his expression and knew immediately what it meant. "Does duty call, Finn?" she asked gently.
Finn nodded, his expression weary. "Yeah, looks like Jon and Gary quit. They need me to cover tonight."
Ms. Tori sighed, placing a comforting hand on his arm. "I'm sorry, Finn. I know how much you were looking forward to some time off."
"It's alright," Finn said, forcing a smile. "I knew it was a long shot anyway. The town needs all the help it can get."
Eric looked up, concern etched on his young face. "Do you have to go, Finn?"
Finn ruffled the boy's hair affectionately. "Yeah, buddy. Duty calls. But I'll be back, and we’ll have more stories to share. I promise."
Ms. Tori gave him a supportive nod. "Just promise us you'll stay safe, Finn."
"I will," Finn assured her. He stood up, preparing to leave. "Thanks for dinner, Ms. Tori. It was great, as always."
As he left the warm, comforting atmosphere of Ms. Tori's home and headed out into the cold night, Finn felt a renewed sense of purpose. Despite the exhaustion and the ever-present danger, he knew he had to keep fighting. For the town, for Eric, and for the memory of the man who had helped him become who he was.
Once at the station, Finn entered and immediately spotted Dick Cortez, a veteran Gaunt Hunter who had been safeguarding the town for as long as Finn could remember. Dick, now in his 50s, had graying hair, deep-set wrinkles, and perpetually tired eyes. He was wearing the standard-issue armor that all Gaunt Hunters received, though each Hunter was allowed to customize their armor with different colors and modifications.
Dick's armor consisted of a high-collar black shirt beneath a modified, pure black chest plate that covered his upper abdomen, along with similarly-colored bracers. Both the chest plate and bracers were trimmed with white and featured matching shoulder pads. He also wore gloves with small metal plating on the fingers, dark navy jeans, black and white metal knee pads, and dark brown boots.
Dick noticed Finn and offered a small smile. "Heya, Finn," he greeted.
"Hey yourself, Dick," Finn replied with a nod.
"Sorry about having to bring you in on your day off," Dick said, his tone genuinely apologetic.
Finn walked over to his locker, where his armor and weapons were stored. He glanced at Dick and shrugged, giving a small smile. "It's alright, Dick. I understand why, and I'm not angry—well, not at you, but at those two," Finn said, referring to Jon and Gary.
Dick nodded in understanding. "Trust me, I'm disappointed in them too, but I can see why they left so suddenly," he said.
Finn nodded back, opening his locker to reveal his armor. His armor was similar to Dick's but differed in color and the clothing underneath. Finn wore his usual attire beneath the armor, which consisted of a dark brown chest plate trimmed with black, matching bracers, shoulder pads, knee pads, and gloves.
He took the armor out and quickly dressed, securing the pieces in place. He then grabbed his Glock and its holster, strapping it around his waist, and added his machete in its sheath. Once fully suited up, he turned to Dick with a raised brow. "Which side of town am I patrolling tonight?"
"Outer wall, west side," Dick stated, his voice firm.
Finn nodded, mentally preparing himself for the task ahead. The west side of the outer wall was notorious for Gaunt activity, a hotspot for their attacks. It was going to be a long night.
As he headed out, Dick called after him, "Stay sharp out there, Finn. We can't afford to lose any more good Hunters."
Finn turned back and gave a resolute nod. "I will, Dick. See you in the morning."
Once outside the city, Finn couldn't help but take in the grim sight of the outer wall. It was marred with deep scratches and chips from relentless Gaunt attacks, stained with the dark green goo that dripped from their slavering mouths, and speckled with bloodstains that would never fully wash away. The stark contrast between this battered exterior and the inner walls of the town was striking. Inside, the walls were adorned with chalk drawings from children and vibrant murals from the town's artists. These cheerful images served as a reminder of what he was protecting, and why he had chosen to become a Gaunt Hunter in the first place.
Reaching the west side of the wall, Finn began his patrol, moving back and forth to ensure no Gaunts were attempting to scale the barrier. For now, the night was quiet, and he hoped it would remain that way.
As he walked his beat, his thoughts drifted back to dinner with Eric and the boy's enthusiastic declaration about becoming a Gaunt Hunter. While part of him felt honored by Eric's admiration, another part was deeply troubled. The life of a Hunter was dangerous and filled with horrors that no one should have to witness, let alone a young boy like Eric.
Finn's mind flashed back to a particularly gruesome memory from a past patrol. He and another Hunter had been called to assist in repelling a large pack of Gaunts. They had rushed to the scene, only to find their comrades dead, slaughtered in horrific ways. One Hunter's skull had been cracked open, with Gaunts eating from it as if it were a bowl of grapes. Another Hunter, still alive, was being disemboweled and devoured. Finn could never forget the man's agonized expression as he watched his own entrails being torn apart and consumed. The sight had been so revolting that Finn had vomited on the spot, paralyzed by shock until his partner snapped him back to reality.
Then there were the stories he had heard from veterans like Dick. Dick once recounted an incident where a Hunter had been speared to death by multiple Gaunts. They hadn't even eaten him; they had just impaled him repeatedly, leaving his body to rot in the woods for days. Such tales highlighted the Gaunts' malevolence and complete lack of empathy.
Finn shuddered at the memories. He didn't want Eric to face such nightmares. The boy was full of life and potential, and Finn couldn't bear the thought of him enduring the same horrors he had.
Since that harrowing incident and the chilling story Dick had shared, Finn had sworn to himself that he wouldn't meet a similar fate. He vowed to go out fighting, to not end up like those other hunters. He couldn't bear the thought of becoming another victim, especially after what happened to his sister.
The sudden howl nearby jolted Finn out of his grim thoughts. The sound was close—too close. Instantly alert, he scanned his surroundings. Just then, something whizzed past his face, slicing his cheek. He turned to see a makeshift arrow embedded in the wall. Spinning back around, his heart sank as he saw ten Gaunts emerging from the tree line.
"Shit!" Finn cursed, his eyes widening in horror. This was a dire situation. He quickly drew his Glock and aimed at the advancing creatures. Before he could fire, a sharp pain seared through his left side. He glanced down to see a small dagger lodged in his torso.
'What the hell?' Finn thought, bewildered. 'Did one of the Gaunts throw this?'
"Sorry, but it's nothing personal," a strange voice echoed through the darkness.
Finn's gaze snapped forward, and he saw a figure emerging from the shadows. They wore a long black cloak that seemed to envelop them completely, giving the eerie impression that they were gliding across the ground rather than walking.
The figure approached him, their face obscured by the cloak's hood. "My, you are a handsome young man," they purred in a sultry tone. "Such a fucking shame that my babies must eat. We've been on the run, and they haven't had a chance to rest and eat until we saw you." They giggled, a chilling sound that sent shivers down Finn's spine.
Fear gripped Finn, but he managed to look up at the cloaked figure with a raised brow. "W-Who are you?" he stammered, his voice wavering.
The figure tilted their head slightly as if amused by his question. "Who am I?" they echoed. "I am their mother, their caretaker. I ensure they survive, even if it means feeding them humans like you." The figure leaned closer, and Finn could just make out a twisted smile beneath the hood.
Finn's mind raced. He needed to think of a way out, and fast. The Gaunts were closing in, and he was injured and at a severe disadvantage. Summoning his remaining strength, he clutched his Glock tighter and tried to steady his breath. He couldn't let this be the end.
The figure's giggle echoed eerily through the night, sending a shiver down Finn's spine. "Oh! Now I'm regretting stabbing you," they remarked with a twisted amusement. "It's not every day a handsome young man asks me my name, you know? Most prefer a no-name policy." Their tone was cryptic, and Finn couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in his gut. "While I would love to give you my name in far better circumstances, I'm afraid I don't have the time," they continued, their words dripping with urgency. "As I said, we're on the run from a rather unpleasant girl."
Finn's confusion only deepened. The figure's response didn't provide any clarity, leaving him even more perplexed. As the figure began to back away, Finn's eyes widened in shock as the Gaunts beside them moved in unison. ‘She can... control them!?’ he realized, disbelief washing over him.
"Go ahead, babies... EAT!" the figure commanded, her voice chillingly calm.
With a sickening lurch in his stomach, Finn watched as the Gaunts surged forward, their hunger palpable in the air. Determination surged within him, driving him to fight against the odds stacked against him. Ignoring the searing pain from his wound, he raised his gun and fired at the approaching Gaunts. Despite his efforts, only one was hit, and even then, it didn't slow down.
Finn gritted his teeth, preparing for the inevitable close-quarter battle with the monsters. "Come on!" he growled defiantly. "I'm right here!"
The Gaunts closed in, their predatory instincts driving them forward. Just as they leaped toward him, ready to strike, something unexpected occurred.
Thorny vines erupted from the ground, snaking around the Gaunts with incredible speed. Finn's eyes widened in astonishment as the vines ensnared the creatures, halting their advance. The vines twisted and contorted, slamming the Gaunts into the ground with brutal force, tearing at their flesh and rendering them helpless.
" Damn! How did that bitch already find us!?" the figure exclaimed, frustration evident in their voice.
Finn's gaze followed the figure's gaze as a new figure emerged from the shadows.
Her appearance was striking, to say the least. With a spiky red Mohawk and piercing red eyes devoid of any white, she exuded an aura of fierce determination. Smudged mascara framed her intense gaze, adding to her wild and untamed appearance. Her lips were painted black, a stark contrast to her fiery red hair and eyes. Clad in a black leather crop top vest that accentuated her slim, athletic frame, she exuded an air of defiance. Arm bands encircled her wrists and biceps, resembling the wraps worn by boxers, hinting at her combat prowess. Around her neck, she wore a large choker, adding to her rebellious demeanor. Her attire was completed by tight leather pants and high-heeled platform boots, giving her an imposing presence.
"Found you, ya freaking cunt!" she spat, her voice laced with venom.
The cloaked figure retreated, increasing the distance between them and the girl. "Ugh, don't you ever give up?" they retorted, their tone tinged with irritation.
The girl leveled a fierce glare at the figure. "After the shit you've done!? I ain't letting you go!" she declared, her voice dripping with disdain.
The figure let out a mocking giggle. "Is that so?" they taunted, gesturing toward Finn who lay wounded on the ground. "Not even to save his life?"
The girl's gaze shifted to Finn, her expression softening momentarily as she registered his injuries. Before she could react, a shrill howl pierced the air, drawing their attention back to the figure.
"What the hell did you do!?" the girl demanded, her voice trembling with rage.
"Oh, just called in a few friends over for dinner," the figure replied casually.
"You bitch!" the girl seethed.
With a swift motion, she thrust her hand forward, summoning a massive vine with thorns protruding from its surface. The vine lunged toward the figure, but they evaded the attack with agile grace, darting away through the forest.
"Have fun~!" they taunted, their laughter echoing through the trees as they disappeared into the darkness.
Driven by determination, the girl pursued the figure, her footsteps echoing through the forest. However, her path was suddenly obstructed as a horde of Gaunts emerged from the shadows, blocking her way with menacing snarls and bared teeth.
"Get out of my way!" the girl cried, her voice ringing with determination.
In an instant, a smaller thorned vine shot out of the ground with startling speed, piercing through the approaching Gaunts like a bullet. Lifted into the air by the force of the vine, the creatures were hurled aside, crashing into trees with bone-crushing force.
As more Gaunts emerged from the shadows behind her, four shots echoed through the air. Finn's aim was true, striking the advancing Gaunts and causing them to writhe in agony as they fell to the ground. The girl glanced back to see Finn's timely intervention, offering a silent nod of acknowledgment before focusing her attention back on the remaining threats. Summoning more vines, she ensnared the creatures, tearing them apart with ruthless efficiency.
Satisfied that the immediate danger had passed, the girl turned back towards Finn, who was now sitting against the wall, applying pressure to his wound.
Bending down beside him, the girl flashed a smile, revealing sharp triangular teeth reminiscent of a shark. "Nice shooting there, dude. Really saved my ass back there," she remarked.
Finn managed a weak chuckle. "I should be thanking you. If you hadn't shown up, I'd be Gaunt food," he admitted.
"Let's call it even, then, eh?" she suggested. "What's your name?" she inquired.
Finn met her gaze, taking a moment to catch his breath before responding. "Finn, Finn Tresscoat," he introduced himself. Curiosity burning in his eyes, he posed a question in return. "Who are you? No... What are you?" he asked, unable to shake off the mystery surrounding her.
The girl maintained her enigmatic smile, meeting his gaze with her striking red eyes. "The name's Rachel Rose," she revealed. "As for what I am, well... I can answer that once you're all patched up," she added cryptically.
Summoning another vine, Rachel gently lifted Finn to his feet, supporting him as they began to make their way back towards town. With each step, Finn's mind buzzed with questions, the mysteries surrounding Rachel and her abilities swirling in his thoughts. Who was the cloaked figure? How did they control the Gaunts? And most pressing of all, who—or what—was Rachel, and how was she able to command those vines with such ease?
As they walked back toward town, Finn couldn't help but feel the weight of exhaustion settle upon him, both physically and mentally. His thoughts swirled with questions about the events that had just transpired—about Rachel, the cloaked figure, and the unsettling abilities they both possessed. Yet, amidst the chaos of his mind, one pressing question emerged, demanding attention above all else.
'When the hell am I gonna get another day off? Because I can sure as hell use it right now...!' Finn thought to himself, his weariness palpable.
Rachel, walking beside him, seemed to sense his inner turmoil. Casting him a sidelong glance, she offered a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Finn. You'll have your chance to rest soon," she assured him, her voice carrying a note of empathy.
Finn managed a weary smile in return, grateful for the reassurance. Despite the gravity of their situation, her words offered a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty that loomed over them…

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DevOps Practices Help with the Continuous Learning and Adaptation of AI Systems

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, ensuring that AI systems continuously learn and adapt is crucial. DevOps practices, known for enhancing software development and delivery, can play a significant role in this process. Let's explore how DevOps can facilitate the continuous learning and adaptation of AI systems, making them more robust, reliable, and efficient.

Introduction

AI systems are dynamic by nature. They require constant updates and refinements to stay relevant and effective. This is where DevOps, a set of practices that combines software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops), comes into play. By integrating DevOps practices, AI systems can achieve continuous learning and adaptation, leading to better performance and outcomes. But how exactly does this happen? Let's dive in.

Understanding DevOps and AI

What is DevOps?

DevOps is a collaborative approach that combines software development and IT operations to shorten the development lifecycle and deliver high-quality software continuously. Key practices include continuous integration (CI), continuous deployment (CD), automated testing, and monitoring.

What are AI Systems?

AI systems are technologies designed to mimic human intelligence, including machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. These systems require large amounts of data and iterative learning processes to improve over time.

Intersection of DevOps and AI

The intersection of DevOps and AI lies in the need for continuous updates and improvements. AI systems must be trained, validated, and deployed efficiently, which aligns perfectly with the DevOps philosophy of continuous improvement and delivery.

The Importance of Continuous Learning in AI

Why AI Needs Continuous Learning

AI systems need continuous learning to:

• Adapt to New Data: As new data becomes available, AI models need to be retrained to incorporate the latest information.
• Improve Accuracy: Continuous learning helps AI systems refine their predictions and decisions, enhancing accuracy over time.
• Respond to Changes: Whether it's changing user behavior or market trends, AI systems must adapt quickly to remain effective.

Challenges in AI Adaptation

Despite the need for continuous learning, several challenges exist:

• Data Quality: Ensuring high-quality data for training is a significant challenge.
• Resource Intensive: Continuous training and deployment require substantial computational resources.
• Integration Complexity: Integrating AI updates seamlessly into existing systems can be complex.

DevOps Practices for Continuous Learning in AI

Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)

CI/CD pipelines automate the integration and deployment of code changes, enabling faster updates and reducing the risk of errors. For AI, this means:

• Automated Model Training: Integrating new data and retraining models automatically.
• Seamless Deployment: Deploying updated models into production with minimal downtime.

Automated Testing and Validation

Automated testing ensures that AI models are validated against predefined criteria before deployment. This includes:

• Unit Tests for Models: Checking individual components of the AI system.
• Integration Tests: Ensuring the AI system works correctly within the larger application.

Implementing Feedback Loops

Monitoring and Logging

Effective monitoring and logging are critical for continuous learning. This involves:

• Tracking Model Performance: Continuously monitoring how well AI models perform in real-world scenarios.
• Identifying Issues: Logging errors and anomalies to identify areas for improvement.

Real-Time Data Integration

Integrating real-time data allows AI systems to learn and adapt continuously. This can be achieved by:

• Streaming Data Pipelines: Using tools like Apache Kafka to process data in real time.
• Adaptive Learning Algorithms: Employing algorithms that can update models incrementally as new data arrives.

Scalability and Flexibility

Containerization and Orchestration

Using containers (like Docker) and orchestration tools (like Kubernetes) helps in:

• Scalable Deployment: Deploying AI models across different environments seamlessly.
• Resource Management: Efficiently managing computational resources to handle large-scale AI operations.

Cloud-Native Architectures

Leveraging cloud-native architectures ensures that AI systems can scale and adapt dynamically. This includes:

• Elastic Scalability: Automatically scaling resources up or down based on demand.
• Managed Services: Utilizing managed AI services for faster development and deployment.

Security and Compliance in AI DevOps

Secure Development Practices

Incorporating security into the DevOps pipeline ensures that AI systems are protected against threats. This involves:

• Security Testing: Integrating security tests into the CI/CD pipeline.
• Secure Data Handling: Ensuring data used for training and inference is handled securely.

Compliance Automation

Automating compliance checks ensures that AI systems adhere to regulations and standards. This includes:

• Automated Audits: Regularly auditing AI systems for compliance with data protection regulations.
• Policy Enforcement: Implementing policies that enforce compliance throughout the development lifecycle.

Collaboration and Culture

Cross-Functional Teams

Building cross-functional teams that include data scientists, developers, and operations professionals fosters collaboration. This helps in:

• Shared Knowledge: Promoting knowledge sharing and better decision-making.
• Integrated Development: Ensuring that AI models are developed and deployed with operational considerations in mind.

Shared Responsibility and Ownership

Promoting a culture of shared responsibility ensures that everyone involved is accountable for the AI system's performance and ethical considerations. This involves:

• Collaborative Decision-Making: Involving all stakeholders in key decisions.
• Ownership of Outcomes: Ensuring that teams take ownership of the AI system's outcomes.

Case Studies and Real-World Applications

Continuous Learning in E-commerce

In the e-commerce sector, AI systems are used to personalize recommendations, optimize pricing, and manage inventory. Continuous learning helps:

• Personalize User Experience: Adapting recommendations based on real-time user behavior.
• Optimize Operations: Using real-time data to improve inventory management and pricing strategies.

Adaptive AI in Healthcare

In healthcare, adaptive AI systems are used for diagnostics, treatment recommendations, and patient monitoring. Continuous learning ensures:

• Improved Diagnostics: Updating models with new medical research and patient data.
• Responsive Treatment Plans: Adapting treatment recommendations based on real-time patient monitoring.

Conclusion

Integrating DevOps practices into AI development and deployment enables continuous learning and adaptation, making AI systems more robust, efficient, and effective. By leveraging CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, real-time data integration, and collaborative cultures, organizations can ensure that their AI systems remain relevant and deliver optimal performance. As AI continues to evolve, the synergy between DevOps and AI will be essential for driving innovation and maintaining ethical standards.
For more insights into AIM[L](mailto:contact@htree.plus) [a](mailto:contact@htree.plus)n[d](mailto:contact@htree.plus) [D](mailto:contact@htree.plus)a[t](mailto:contact@htree.plus)a Science Development, please write to us at: [contact@fxis.ai](mailto:contact@fxis.ai)[](mailto:contact@htree.plus) FxisAi

DevOps #AI #ContinuousLearning #Innovation #Tech

This is all I can think of right now, but it's my attempt to make the individual members of each faction unique. These can be changed to make them more balanced as needed. No, Phantoms don't need the additional 20 health.
"All abilities are refreshed upon respawn.
Cleaners: Fire Ammo damage increased by 1, duration increased by 1 second. Replaced range reduction with reduced bullet penetration. Immune to Fire Ammo effect.

• Default - Flame Turret with 360 degree targeting angle. Range of 12 meters. Duration of 15 seconds. Can be placed straight down or thrown 10 meters.
  
• Cleaner B - Fire Drone - Fire Drone will now follow the player until an enemy is within 12 meters, then it will automatically fly directly towards that enemy and explode. If the Drone is shot or hacked, then the drone will detonate and the Cleaner and their allies will be damaged from the explosion. No longer leaves a fire trail, but still leaves a large fire pool at detonation spot.
  
• Cleaner C - Fire Bomb - Fire Bomb can now be thrown. If killed with a bomb available, then the player will explode and set fire to everything within 10 meters.
  

Cleaner Ultimate: When activated, instantly heal all health, gain temporary 15% damage reduction, and a 10% movement speed increase. Increase flamethrower range by 5 meters.
Phantoms: Gene Mod changed from +20 max HP to +15% buff to reload speed, ADS speed, ADS movement speed, sprint to fire speed, vaulting speed, and recoil control. Phantoms have 100 HP now.

• Default - Mag Shield - Cooldown reduced by 5 seconds if the shield was not destroyed.
  
• Phantom B - Crusader Shield - +5% sprint speed boost and melee attack speed.
  
• Phantom C - Personal Overshield - Full body overshield that gives 20 temporary health for 10 seconds.
  

Phantom Ultimate: Damage to bubble shield increases the duration and durability of your next ability usage by max of 25%.
Echelon: Unsuppressed weapons do not reveal location on minimap, but all weapons have their max damage range reduced by 10 meters. Quieter footsteps.

• Default - Active Camo - Firing any non-pistol weapon breaks the cloak.
  
• Echelon B - Intel Suit - Enemies revealed are shown in still images and not real time. Increased reveal range by 5 meters.
  
• Echelon C - Proximity Shock Trap - A shock trap that stuns enemies that enter its triggering range for a short period of time and reveals their location for 5 seconds.
  

Echelon Ultimate: Player is now perfectly cloaked when using the ability. Reduced the enemy detection range by 5 meters.
Libertad: Increased passive healing range by 10 meters.

• Default - BioVida Can - Increased range by 10 meters, increased active duration by 5 seconds, reduced cooldown by 10 seconds.
  
• Libertad B - Medico Bag - Increased range by 10 meters, reduced cooldown by 10 seconds.
  
• Libertad C - PG-240 Poison Grenade - A red poison gas that damages nearby enemies within a 10 meter range for 10 seconds. Gas disorients the vision of those affected, causes them to cough loudly, and lingers for 2 seconds out of the gas cloud. If killed with an available grenade, then this character will drop a live one.
  

Libertad Ultimate: Libertad A and B have increased effective range, Libertad C has their healing Supremo replaced with a the poison one, which spews out poison within the same radius as the healing one. The user also becomes berserked from the poison, gaining increased sprinting speed.
DedSec: 3D Printer ability only applies to non-lethal throwables, and can print an additional one every 15 seconds when the previous one is used.

• Default - Hacker Device- Enemies and proximity mines can be hacked as well. Enemies that are hacked cannot use their abilities for 10 seconds.
  
• DedSec B - Spiderbot - Increased range that the ability can be placed. Reduced duration of stun by 5 seconds, reduced shock damage by 5%, increased movement speed by 5%. When an enemy shoots the spiderbot off of someone, the victim is stunned for an additional 2 seconds.
  
• DecSec C - Firewall Protection - Use this on an ally to give their next ability 10% efficiency when used. 15 second cooldown per use.
  

DedSec Ultimate: This Ultimate is now available 10 seconds sooner."

Timestamp: https://imgur.com/JAry6mF
More Pics: https://imgur.com/a/oa23A0j
Howdy my dudes. Please buy this optic. Price is shipped. I prefer paypal F&F, but can accept most payment methods.

1. Primary Arms SLX 1x Microprism - $140 SOLD

-Used. Low salt. Has the ACSS Gemini reticle for 9x19. Only includes the pictured low mount. Manual and bikini cover included. I had this mounted on a Ruger PC Carbine for about 150 rounds. Red illumination. 13 brightness settings. 3 are NV settings.

This post will automatically be removed on the 1st of each month for a fresh post.
As a user of the sub, you are aware of how bad WTS thread can get on Reddit.

We are only allowing this to occur within this stickied post. If you create a thread, it will be deleted, no questions asked.

Rules:

1. All personal posts require that a valid timestamp is included - image, with a post-it containing the date/time, as well as Reddit username (mandatory) and discord id (optional). See this example.
2. All personal posts require a location, what you have to offer, and what you're looking for. Use the anacronyms WTS, WTB, WTT.
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5. Personal posts require an asking price if an item is being sold.
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If rules are being broken, your comments will be deleted. 2 warnings, and then a ban. If you are banned because of consistent rule-breaking, any appeal you make will be ignored.
Happy trading!

I JUST made a post about getting my Nmom to sign a form which would qualify me into the job corps and now it feels like she is already believing she can dangle this whole thing over my head and prob question after question. My Nmom is on my “I hate you” list due to her boundary violating and harassment towards me. Now shes sending me texts asking about my progress. Jesus fucking Christ omfg I CANT. It’s so overwhelming. Everything was fine when I was doing this on my own but once I had to get my nmom involved for ONE THING she is pushing her nose so far into everything. She doesn’t care about anything when it comes to me and it’s so hard to explain. My mind is melting because she doesn’t care but then she’s asking all these questions. It’s just impossible for me to get the right words out right now. Just a day ago she was trying to scare me into not going because I rely on medication and I have a disability as if it’s a reason why I shouldn’t go. She’s incredibly toxic and selfish to use a fear mongering tactic because she hates the fact I’m leaving the nest for a bit. I’m pretty sure she did this with my sibling when they moved out for college but I’m not sure. My Nmom is genuinely a literal load of shit. I’m ignoring her messages as I type this and she’s texting me even more. Her entitlement is mental illness I swear to god. She legit was acting like a child and belittling me about going because she’s pissed I won’t be around to deal with her crap. I’m going to be miles from home away from her, she won’t be able to have emotional outbursts at me because I didn’t text back to one flamboyant message.
I tried laying some boundaries down but she ofc walked over them and she is trying to push me into having a mother daughter relationship with her when she can’t even respect me, my boundaries, my space and privacy. She sees me as an extension which makes it even more complex cuz she will never understand as she won’t go to therapy.

I want to make mala necklace BUT with space and on a string where I can move through the beads when I using it. What string do I need that won’t shred with use?

Hi all, I have this infuriating story where I took some debt to pay for a college program which gave me an additional degree when I graduated. In preparation for the semester, I went to my banker to figure out how to fund this excursion (two year college, student loans weren’t available). Against my better judgement, I let him talk me into putting everything on my credit card and when I get back we can get a loan in the specific amount needed. I knew this was a bad idea, but I was 20 and figured “he’s the banker, he probably knows better than me”. I get back and I’m denied for a loan…
The CC goes to collections. I was making regular payments to the original debt collection agency for a couple of years, I didn’t really look for the collection agency charge on my monthly statement because I knew it was there and I had autopay on. A couple weeks ago my parents get a letter (I was NC with them for years until recently) that I’m being sued for not paying a different debt collection agency.
Apparently my original DC (Debt Collector) needed to call me to reaffirm my monthly payments and couldn’t, because I didn’t have a phone at the time. Not hearing from me I guess they sold my debt to another DC. Now the new DC is suing me for not paying them, when I didn’t know they existed or had my debt. All mail they sent went to my parents. The DC even sent a constable to my parents house (I’d imagine they’d have my address, I’m not hiding).
My parents want me to call the DC and just say I’ll pay. I’m not against paying what I owe, but I’m worried the DC is going to try to run me over with fees/charges, and use my call against me in court. Any advice?
I’m in the U.S, and have a good income now, but don’t have enough to pay the balance outright. I was thrown out of my parents house at 25 and thus was moving around a couple times in my first year til everything settled, hence not getting letters. I did set my address to be forwarded for my first year at each apartment, but I guess all this happened after

In the dynamic landscape of modern business, small enterprises often find themselves grappling with the challenge of maximizing efficiency while minimizing costs. Unlike large corporations, small businesses typically operate with limited resources, making it imperative to optimize processes to stay competitive. In this blog, Aden Wong delves into various process optimization techniques that can help small businesses streamline operations, enhance productivity, and ultimately drive growth.

Understanding Process Optimization

Process optimization, as Aden Wong explains, involves analyzing and improving business processes to achieve more efficient results. It encompasses a range of activities, including identifying bottlenecks, eliminating waste, automating tasks, and enhancing quality. For small businesses, process optimization is not just about cutting costs but also about creating value and improving customer satisfaction.

Key Process Optimization Techniques

1. Lean Management

Lean management focuses on maximizing customer value while minimizing waste. Originating from the manufacturing industry, this approach is now widely applied across various sectors. Aden Wong highlights the core principles of lean management, which include:
​

• Value Identification: Determine what your customers value most.
• Value Stream Mapping: Analyze the flow of materials and information required to deliver a product or service.
• Continuous Flow: Ensure that production processes are smooth and uninterrupted.
• Pull System: Produce only what is needed based on customer demand.
• Continuous Improvement: Encourage ongoing efforts to improve processes and eliminate waste.

For small businesses, lean management can be particularly beneficial. By focusing on activities that add value and eliminating those that don't, businesses can reduce costs and improve efficiency.

2. Six Sigma

Six Sigma is a data-driven approach aimed at reducing defects and variability in processes. It employs statistical tools and techniques to identify and eliminate errors. Aden Wong emphasizes the core methodology of Six Sigma, known as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control):
​

• Define: Identify the problem and set clear objectives.
• Measure: Collect data and establish baselines.
• Analyze: Examine the data to identify root causes of defects.
• Improve: Implement solutions to address root causes.
• Control: Monitor the process to ensure improvements are sustained.

Small businesses can leverage Six Sigma to improve quality and consistency, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and reducing costs associated with rework and defects.

3. Business Process Reengineering (BPR)

Business Process Reengineering, as Aden Wong explains, involves the radical redesign of core business processes to achieve significant improvements in productivity, efficiency, and quality. BPR focuses on questioning the status quo and rethinking how work is done. The steps in BPR include:
​

• Identify Processes for Redesign: Focus on processes that have the most significant impact on business performance.
• Understand Existing Processes: Document current processes and identify inefficiencies.
• Reimagine Processes: Develop new ways to achieve process goals using innovative approaches.
• Implement Changes: Roll out the redesigned processes with necessary training and support.
• Monitor Results: Track performance and make adjustments as needed.

While BPR can be disruptive, it offers small businesses the opportunity to make breakthrough improvements and gain a competitive edge.

4. Kaizen

Kaizen is a Japanese term meaning "continuous improvement." It involves making small, incremental changes to processes regularly. Aden Wong points out that the Kaizen approach is based on the belief that small, continuous improvements can lead to significant benefits over time. The steps in Kaizen include:
​

• Standardize: Establish standard operating procedures.
• Measure: Collect data to understand process performance.
• Analyze: Identify areas for improvement.
• Innovate: Develop solutions for improvement.
• Standardize Again: Implement new standards based on improvements.

Kaizen encourages a culture of continuous improvement and employee involvement, making it particularly suitable for small businesses where every team member's contribution is valuable.

5. Total Quality Management (TQM)

Total Quality Management is a comprehensive approach that focuses on improving the quality of products and services through continuous improvement and the involvement of all employees. Aden Wong highlights the key principles of TQM, which include:
​

• Customer Focus: Understand and meet customer needs and expectations.
• Total Employee Involvement: Engage all employees in quality improvement efforts.
• Process Approach: Improve processes to enhance quality.
• Integrated System: Ensure that all functions and processes work together effectively.
• Continuous Improvement: Strive for ongoing improvements in all areas.
• Fact-Based Decision Making: Use data and analysis to guide decisions.
• Communication: Foster open and transparent communication across the organization.

For small businesses, TQM can lead to improved customer satisfaction, reduced costs, and a more engaged workforce.

6. Automation and Technology

In today's digital age, automation and technology play a crucial role in process optimization. Aden Wong discusses how small businesses can leverage various tools and technologies to streamline operations:
​

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: Manage customer interactions and data.
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: Integrate core business processes.
• Project Management Software: Plan, execute, and monitor projects efficiently.
• Accounting Software: Automate financial processes and reporting.
• E-commerce Platforms: Simplify online sales and customer service.

By automating repetitive tasks and integrating technology into daily operations, small businesses can save time, reduce errors, and focus on strategic activities.

7. Workflow Management

Workflow management involves designing, executing, and monitoring workflows to ensure that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. Aden Wong outlines the key steps in workflow management, which include:
​

• Identify Tasks: Break down processes into individual tasks.
• Assign Roles: Allocate tasks to appropriate team members.
• Set Deadlines: Establish clear timelines for task completion.
• Monitor Progress: Track task progress and identify bottlenecks.
• Evaluate Performance: Review completed workflows to identify areas for improvement.

Effective workflow management can help small businesses improve coordination, reduce delays, and enhance overall productivity.

Implementing Process Optimization

Step 1: Conduct a Process Audit

Before implementing any optimization techniques, it's essential to conduct a thorough audit of existing processes. Aden Wong advises mapping out each process, identifying inefficiencies, and gathering data on performance. A process audit provides a clear understanding of the current state and helps identify areas for improvement.

Step 2: Set Clear Objectives

Define what you aim to achieve through process optimization. Objectives might include reducing costs, improving quality, increasing speed, or enhancing customer satisfaction. Aden Wong emphasizes that clear objectives provide direction and a basis for measuring success.

Step 3: Involve Employees

Engage employees at all levels in the optimization process. Aden Wong notes that employees who are directly involved in processes often have valuable insights into inefficiencies and potential improvements. Encouraging their participation fosters a culture of continuous improvement and increases buy-in for changes.

Step 4: Prioritize Improvements

Not all processes will require immediate attention. Aden Wong suggests prioritizing improvements based on factors such as impact on business performance, ease of implementation, and alignment with strategic goals. Focusing on high-impact areas ensures that optimization efforts yield significant benefits.

Step 5: Implement Changes Incrementally

Rather than overhauling multiple processes at once, implement changes incrementally. This allows you to manage risks, monitor results, and make adjustments as needed. Aden Wong advises that incremental implementation also reduces disruption to daily operations.

Step 6: Monitor and Adjust

Process optimization is an ongoing effort. Continuously monitor the performance of optimized processes and gather feedback from employees and customers. Aden Wong emphasizes using this information to make further adjustments and ensure that improvements are sustained.

Case Study: Process Optimization in a Small Manufacturing Business

To illustrate the impact of process optimization, Aden Wong presents a case study of a small manufacturing business.

Background

ABC Manufacturing is a small company specializing in custom metal parts. The company faced several challenges, including high production costs, frequent defects, and long lead times. To address these issues, ABC Manufacturing decided to implement process optimization techniques, guided by Aden Wong's principles.

Process Audit

The first step was conducting a process audit. The audit revealed several inefficiencies, including:
​

• Excessive Material Waste: Significant amounts of raw materials were being wasted during production.
• Defect Rates: A high rate of defects required rework, increasing costs and lead times.
• Manual Processes: Many tasks were performed manually, leading to errors and inefficiencies.

Objectives

ABC Manufacturing set the following objectives based on Aden Wong's recommendations:
​

• Reduce material waste by 20%.
• Decrease defect rates by 30%.
• Improve production speed by automating manual tasks.

Lean Management Implementation

The company adopted lean management principles to address these objectives, as suggested by Aden Wong.
​

• Value Stream Mapping: The team mapped out the production process to identify waste and inefficiencies. They discovered that certain steps could be eliminated or streamlined.
• Continuous Improvement: Employees were encouraged to suggest improvements. One suggestion was to implement a more efficient cutting process, reducing material waste.
• Pull System: Production was adjusted to match customer demand, reducing overproduction and excess inventory.

Six Sigma Approach

To address defect rates, ABC Manufacturing employed Six Sigma techniques, following Aden Wong's advice.
​

• Define and Measure: The team defined the specific types of defects and measured their frequency.
• Analyze: Root cause analysis revealed that inconsistent machine calibration was a primary cause of defects.
• Improve and Control: The company implemented regular machine maintenance and calibration checks, resulting in a significant reduction in defects.

Automation and Technology

ABC Manufacturing also invested in automation and technology, as recommended by Aden Wong.
​

• Automated Cutting Machines: New machines were introduced to automate the cutting process, improving precision and speed.
• ERP System: An ERP system was implemented to integrate production planning, inventory management, and order processing.

Results

The process optimization efforts yielded impressive results:
​

• Material Waste Reduction: Material waste was reduced by 25%, exceeding the initial target.
• Defect Rate Reduction: Defect rates decreased by 35%, leading to lower rework costs and improved product quality.
• Increased Production Speed: Automation reduced production lead times by 40%, enabling faster order fulfillment.

ABC Manufacturing's experience demonstrates the transformative impact of process optimization. By adopting lean management, Six Sigma, and automation, the company achieved significant improvements in efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction, aligning with Aden Wong's principles.

Conclusion

Process optimization is a vital strategy for small businesses aiming to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. By leveraging techniques such as lean management, Six Sigma, business process reengineering, Kaizen, and total quality management, small businesses can streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve quality. Additionally, embracing automation and effective workflow management can further enhance productivity.
Aden Wong emphasizes that the journey of process optimization requires commitment, continuous monitoring, and a willingness to embrace change. However, the rewards—improved performance, customer satisfaction, and business growth—are well worth the effort. Small businesses that prioritize process optimization will be better positioned to thrive in today's competitive market.

Hello,
I moved to France 7 years ago to do my masters degree and ended up working in France. I am due to become a dual citizen within the next year. Before I moved I racked up quite a bit of student loan debt, amounting to 70k between public and private. It was on hold for payments during my masters program but accumulating interest. I have variable interest rates. Which I will never ever do again, but when you’re 18 and you don’t have a co-signer, that 5% variable looks pretty good.
I started paying on the private loans (Discover) 4 years ago. When I first started making payments the rates were more or less 7-8%. They have been steadily increasing and today are 12.8% and 14.15% respectively. I have paid 27k towards these loans over the past 4 years yet only 7k went to the principal. I keep waiting for the rates to go down however given the economy not sure when/if this will be.
A couple of years ago I worked to get my credit score in perfect shape (nearly 800) by paying down my credit cards (which have gone up recently as I’m paying for a wedding, but I still have about 10k in available credit.) The idea was that I refinance my private loans. But when I went to do that, I couldn’t find a provider who would accept a foreign work contract as proof of income, or who would want to loan to me because I live and work outside of the U.S. . I have family in the U.S. who can provide me with a U.S. address. But I do not have a W2.
What options do I have / are there any loan providers who will refinance roughly 48k for less than what I’m paying in interest right now, who accepts foreign work contracts (French)?

The 2005 West Virginia Mountaineers football team experienced a breakout season that firmly established the program as a powerhouse in college football. Under the leadership of head coach Rich Rodriguez, the team harnessed the full potential of the spread offense, culminating in a memorable season filled with remarkable achievements and a major bowl victory. This article explores the 2005 season, the strategic use of the spread offense, and the significant contributions of Coach Rich Rodriguez.
The 2005 season was a landmark year for the Mountaineers. West Virginia finished the season with an impressive 11-1 record, capturing the Big East Championship and earning a spot in the prestigious Sugar Bowl. The season was highlighted by several key victories, including a win over Louisville in a triple-overtime thriller and a dominant performance against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl.
Coach Rich Rodriguez's spread offense was the cornerstone of West Virginia's success in 2005. This offensive scheme was characterized by its fast-paced, dynamic nature, and its ability to maximize the skills of the Mountaineers' talented roster. The spread offense emphasized spreading the field with multiple receivers, utilizing option reads, and executing quick, precise plays.
Key elements of the spread offense included:

• Option Reads: Quarterback Pat White's ability to make real-time decisions based on defensive alignments was pivotal. His dual-threat capability allowed him to either pass, hand off to running back Steve Slaton, or keep the ball and run.
• Multiple Wide Receivers: The offense often featured four or five wide receivers, stretching the defense horizontally and creating mismatches.
• Quick, Precise Plays: Quick passes and runs minimized the risk of negative plays and maintained a high tempo, keeping defenses off balance.

Rich Rodriguez's innovative approach to the game was instrumental in West Virginia's 2005 success. His implementation of the spread offense revolutionized the Mountaineers' offensive strategy, allowing the team to exploit defensive weaknesses and maximize the potential of their players. Rodriguez's coaching philosophy emphasized speed, precision, and adaptability, making West Virginia one of the most difficult teams to defend.
Under Rodriguez's guidance, the Mountaineers developed a reputation for their high-powered offense and resilient play. His ability to recruit and develop talent, particularly in the cases of Pat White and Steve Slaton, was a testament to his coaching acumen. Rodriguez's influence extended beyond West Virginia, as his spread offense concepts were adopted by numerous other programs across the country.
Want to learn more? CLICK HERE and download the playbook for free!

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Prices are firm and include shipping from IL. CONUS only and I can only accept PayPal. Lots of transactions on watchexchange with nothing but positive feedback! If you’d like all 4 pairs I can do a slight discount.
RM Williams Comfort Craftsman, 10G (US 11D)
Upper: Light Brown Suede
Price: $150.
Notes: I’m the second owner. First owner removed the front pull tabs, which I prefer anyway. These have had some wear but tons of life left in them as you can see in the images:
https://imgur.com/a/GqV63R9
Allen Edmonds Liverpool Chelsea - Black, Size 11E
Upper: Black Calfskin
Sole: Vegetable-tanned leather soles with rubber V-treads at fore foot and toe for added traction
Price: $150.
Notes: I bought these new (not F2s) last year intending for them to be my dress up boots. Since I don’t dress up that often, and even less in black, I’ve worn them less than 10 times. As you can see in the pics, they show very little signs of use. Original box and boot bags included.
Images: https://imgur.com/a/eR2lX7V
Meermin Double Monk Cap Toe Shoes, US11.
Upper: Copper Antique Calf.
Sole: Leather.
Price: $85.
Notes: BNIB. Only tried on at home. Original packaging and bag included.
Images: https://imgur.com/a/uL183Az
Astorlfex Patnoflex.
Upper: Tan Leather.
Sole: Leather.
Size: 11.
Price: $70.
Notes: I’ve owned these a few years but only worn on vacation (a couple weeks a year) and the occasional summer party, always with socks. They show signs of use but have lots of life left in them. No original packaging but I will pack them well.
Images: https://imgur.com/a/qV200HG

Spotify Playlist
The Audible Odyssey
I was out of my 15 "Free" hours for the month on Spotify and I was sampling different books on my want list to see what I will listen to next. My GF had previously recommended "Don't believe everything you think" for me and it is not available as an audio book for me on Libby and Spotify only has it in a non-English version. I did not want to use an Audible Credit on it since it is only 3 hours long. So on Spotify it came up as "you may also like" and there was the full Audible version in English not only for free but it also does not count against your listening hours. I think the workaround is that they play relaxing music in the background as opposed to the actual Audible version, but both are narrated the same by the Author.
So, I explored this playlist more that has been around since January 2024 and it has other books I have already listened to like: "Atomic Habits", also for free. Not sure if this workaround is on the up and up since it is a podcast and who is getting any royalties if any. So thought I would share to see if I can find out more.
TIA

• Empowerment: Learning self-defense techniques empowers you by building confidence and a sense of control over your safety.
• Awareness: It increases your situational awareness, helping you to recognize and avoid potential threats before they escalate.
• Physical Fitness: Self-defense training often includes physical exercises that improve your strength, agility, and overall health.
• Mental Resilience: It enhances your ability to remain calm and make quick decisions under stress.

Key Principles of Self-Defense

1. Avoidance: The best way to win a fight is to avoid it altogether. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and steer clear of potentially dangerous situations.

• De-escalation: Use verbal and non-verbal communication to defuse a situation before it becomes physical. Maintaining a calm demeanor can often prevent aggression.
• Protection: If a confrontation is unavoidable, prioritize protecting yourself over harming the attacker. Focus on escaping the situation safely.
• Target Areas: Learn the body's vulnerable points, such as the eyes, nose, throat, and groin. Striking these areas can help you disable an attacker long enough to escape.

New here ✋🏼Thanks to this community I have started seeing results, the tips, the motivation, will keep it up to monitor progress. Have a wedding to attend in July as MOH so want to look my best. ☺️
Posting to continuously keep myself accountable, but also to share my experience so far so other PP moms out there can have some reference as I myself did a lot of search here to find good references to get started.
*Disclaimer: this is specific to my body and I find it’s working well without impacting my supply after a slow decrease in CI and choosing better food source, baby’s height and weight are at > 99 percentile consistently, so grow has not been impacted, please use my experience as reference only, I was very fit pre-pregnancy and worked out throughout so I did retain a good amount of muscle to restart. This amount of calories may impact your supply so please please rigorously monitor your supply, baby’s growth, talk to a dietitian or professional.
Stats: Starting weight of when I started to take things seriously: 140lbs Current weight: 136lbs Current Body fat (US Navy Method): 26.9% NSV: 1) Mommy pouch is reduced 2) fit into some of my old clothes 3) back into the unassisted pull up games Height: 5’4 PP: 2 month Postpartum
What I am following:
Calorie intake: 1500 on rest day 1700 on active day Formal Exercise: Deep core exercises + Zone2 30min treadmill inclined walk + Weight training (Upper, Lower, Full body split), 6 days a week, done mostly at home except for Z2 cardio Informal Exercise: my baby doesn’t do well napping on the go but I try to get in as many steps as possible, ranging between 3000-6000 only at the moment, hoping to increase
I always loved exercising so motivation to get moving hasn’t been an issue, three major changes I made though that finally gave me the result:

1. I kind of ditched HIIT because it makes me very hungry afterwards since it burns more carb than fat for fuel, doing once a week now VS. 4 in the past, since switching to inclined walk at zone 2 heart rate, I find myself feeling great, get a nice amount of steps and sweat in, and not hungry afterwards like I feel after HIIT. Nursing moms know how crazily hungry breastfeeding can make you feel. Z2 burns fat more efficiently. As your HR goes higher, your body draws more energy from carb than fat based on my understanding. I found Mike Diamond on YouTube and he changed my old perception of “intensity = result”.
   
2. Recently I set a new rule for myself - as long as it’s going into my month, I need to log it. I had to be honest with myself that in the past I often snack here and there, and don’t log because they are “insignificant” or I wanted to put my head in the sand. Now with my new rule, I still snack but I choose better options because I know I have to deal with the consequences of logging it and confronting my choices. I focus on low sodium, high protein, high fiber food. Getting 1g of protein per lb of my BW. I plan my food the day before and work my “not so healthy but I really wanna eat” food in there without compromising my protein and fiber goal, and of course, stay within the caloric goal.
   
3. Two points above play a big part in me stopping binging late at night as my hunger isn’t as crazy, I feel a major difference in hunger throughout the day when I do HIIT. And since I am taking logging seriously and not cheating myself, I switch to a cup of decaf tea after kids’ bedtime to curb my late night binging tendencies, which had always been my ultimate downfall.
   

Hope someone find this info helpful and just know even though nursing moms and postpartum moms are swimming upstream against hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, you too can do it!!

Understanding Git Repository URL Changes

When working with Git, a version control system that's become synonymous with efficient and collaborative software development, understanding how to manage remote repositories is crucial. These repositories, often hosted on platforms like GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket, serve as the backbone for project sharing and versioning. At times, due to various reasons such as repository migration, changes in project ownership, or the switch to a different hosting service, you might find yourself needing to alter the remote repository's URL. This operation, although straightforward, is essential for maintaining the seamless flow of updates and changes between your local environment and the remote repository.
The process of changing a Git repository's remote URL not only ensures that your project remains accessible but also safeguards against potential disruptions in your development workflow. Whether you're a beginner learning the ropes of Git or a seasoned developer managing multiple projects, mastering this task can significantly enhance your version control strategies. In this introduction, we will explore the importance of keeping your remote URLs up to date and provide a foundation for understanding the steps involved in this crucial Git operation.

Command	Description
git remote -v	Displays the current remotes associated with the local repository.
git remote set-url	Changes the URL for a remote. is the remote name (typically 'origin'). is the new URL to set.
git push	Pushes the changes to the remote branch. Useful for verifying that the new remote URL works.

Navigating Remote Repository Updates in Git

Changing the URI (URL) for a remote Git repository is a common task that developers encounter, especially when they need to update the location of the repository or switch to a different hosting service. This process involves modifying the remote's URL in the local Git configuration to ensure that all future operations, such as fetch, pull, and push, target the new location. The necessity for such a change can arise from various scenarios, such as organizational restructuring, migration to a more secure or robust hosting platform, or simply renaming the repository to better reflect its purpose or scope. Understanding how to effectively manage remote URLs is crucial for maintaining a smooth and efficient workflow in distributed version control environments.
To execute this change, Git provides a straightforward command-line interface, allowing for quick updates to the remote configuration. This flexibility ensures that developers can easily adapt to changes in project requirements or infrastructure without disrupting the project's history or accessibility. It's important for teams to communicate these changes clearly, ensuring all collaborators are aware of the new repository location to avoid any confusion or loss of productivity. Additionally, mastering these Git commands contributes to a deeper understanding of how Git manages remote repositories, empowering developers to take full control of their version control system and streamline their development process.

Changing a Git Remote's URL

Git Commands

Exploring Git Remote Repository URL Changes

Changing the URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) or URL for a remote Git repository is a crucial skill for developers navigating the complex world of version control. This modification is often required when a repository moves to a new host or undergoes a change in its access protocol (from HTTP to SSH, for instance). Such changes are vital for ensuring that the local repository remains in sync with its remote counterpart, allowing for seamless collaboration and version tracking among team members. The ability to update the remote URL is also essential for maintaining the integrity and security of codebases, especially when switching to more secure authentication methods or when updating repository names to reflect project evolutions or company rebranding efforts.
The process is not just about keeping the repository accessible; it’s about ensuring that all the hard work put into development is preserved and protected. In a world where remote work and distributed teams are becoming the norm, mastering the nuances of Git, including the management of remote repositories, is more important than ever. This knowledge empowers developers to adapt quickly to changes in project infrastructure, minimizes disruptions to workflows, and enhances overall productivity. By understanding how to manage remote URLs, developers can ensure that their projects remain flexible and resilient against the backdrop of continuous change in the technology landscape.

FAQs on Git Remote URL Changes

1. Question: Why would I need to change a Git remote's URL?
2. Answer: You might need to change a Git remote's URL for various reasons, including moving the repository to a new hosting service, changing the access protocol (HTTP to SSH), or updating the repository's name or ownership.
3. Question: How do I view my current Git remote URL?
4. Answer: Use the command git remote -v to view the current remote URLs associated with your local repository.
5. Question: Can I change the remote URL for all branches at once?
6. Answer: Yes, changing the remote URL using git remote set-url will apply to all branches that track the remote.
7. Question: What happens to existing branches after changing the remote URL?
8. Answer: Existing branches will not be affected directly. However, their tracking connections will point to the new remote URL for future push and pull operations.
9. Question: Is it possible to have multiple remotes for a single Git repository?
10. Answer: Yes, you can configure multiple remotes for a single repository, allowing you to push and pull from different locations.
11. Question: How do I verify that my remote URL has been updated successfully?
12. Answer: After updating, use git remote -v again to verify that the remote URL has been updated successfully.
13. Question: Can I undo a remote URL change?
14. Answer: Yes, you can undo a remote URL change by setting the URL back to its original value using git remote set-url.
15. Question: What is the difference between HTTP and SSH URLs in Git?
16. Answer: HTTP URLs are used for unsecured connections, while SSH URLs provide a secure connection method requiring SSH keys for authentication.
17. Question: How do changes to the remote URL affect collaborators?
18. Answer: Collaborators will need to update their local repositories with the new URL to continue seamless collaboration.

Mastering Remote Changes in Git

Changing the URI (URL) for a remote Git repository is an essential task that can significantly impact a development team's workflow and project management. This process, while technical, is crucial for maintaining the integrity and continuity of a project, especially in a collaborative environment. It ensures that all team members are working with the correct repository, thereby avoiding potential confusion and errors that can arise from outdated links. Moreover, understanding how to update remote URLs is a testament to a developer's proficiency with Git, reflecting their ability to adapt to changes and manage version control effectively. As projects evolve, the need for such updates may arise from changes in hosting platforms, project ownership, or security enhancements. By mastering this aspect of Git, developers ensure that their projects remain accessible and secure, fostering a productive and efficient development process. In conclusion, the ability to change a remote repository's URL is not just a technical skill but a necessary practice for maintaining a robust and agile development environment.
https://www.tempmail.us.com/en/git/modifying-the-remote-repository-url-in-git

Evocus Media, recognized as the best social media marketing agency in UAE, has helped numerous local businesses grow through effective social media marketing. Today, we'd like to share some insights on how you can leverage social media to boost your business, whether you’re a roofer, chiropractor, dentist, solar provider, or run a MedSpa. Here’s a structured approach that has worked wonders for our clients and can work for you too!

1. Conducting a Marketing Study

First things first, understand your market:

• Identify Your Target Audience: Who are your ideal customers? What are their interests and pain points?
• Analyze Competitors: See what your competitors are doing on social media and identify what’s working for them.
• Set Goals: Define clear, measurable goals like increasing website traffic or generating leads.

2. Building Ad Creatives

Create engaging ads:

• Craft Compelling Visuals: Use high-quality images and videos.
• Write Persuasive Copy: Keep your ad copy clear and benefit-focused.
• A/B Testing: Experiment with different creatives to see which ones perform best.

3. Targeting the Right Audience

Make sure your ads reach the right people:

• Demographic Targeting: Consider age, gender, location, etc.
• Interest Targeting: Target users based on their interests and behaviors.
• Lookalike Audiences: Use your existing customer data to find new potential customers.

4. Generating Sales-Qualified Leads

Convert viewers into leads:

• Landing Pages: Create informative and action-oriented landing pages.
• Lead Magnets: Offer valuable incentives in exchange for contact information.
• Follow-Up: Nurture leads promptly.

5. Setting Up the Nurturing Process

Turn leads into customers:

• Email Marketing: Send regular, engaging emails.
• Retargeting Ads: Remind them of your services.
• CRM Systems: Manage and personalize interactions.

6. The Power of AI Integration

At Evocus Media, we integrate AI technology into our CRM systems to enhance your success:

• Automated SMS & Emails: Ensure timely and relevant communication.
• Long-Term Relationship Management: Maintain long-term relationships with customers.

7. Why Social Media Marketing Works

Social media marketing allows you to reach a broad audience at a relatively low cost and provides valuable insights into your audience’s preferences and behaviors. Consistently delivering valuable content and engaging with your audience builds trust and loyalty, driving more sales and business growth.

8. Our Commitment to Your Success

At Evocus Media, we are dedicated to helping local businesses thrive with our proven social media marketing strategies. Our results-driven approach includes a money-back guarantee if we don't achieve the desired results. Ready to discover how social media marketing can grow your business? Check out evocusmedia.com to learn more. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
Feel free to ask any questions or share your experiences with social media marketing
! We're here to help.
Tags: #DigitalMarketing #SocialMediaMarketing #BusinessGrowth #LocalBusiness #AIIntegration #MarketingStrategy

Czy ktoś byłby mi w stanie powiedzieć kto wypowiedział te słowa w Wiedźmin 1/ Would someone be able to tell me who said these words in The Witcher 1: :

1. Kanciaste domy, brudne ulice. Brakuje mi piękna, które nieodzownie łączy się z moim ludem / Stocky houses, dirty streets. The place lacks the beauty that inevitably surrounds my people
2. Nie rozśmieszaj mnie Geralt. Prostota pasuje do ciebie jak pięść do nosa a sentymenty jeszcze mniej. Nie odmówisz. Jesteś na to zbyt bystry. Ponad to, kogo chcesz bronić? Foltesta? Monarchę, który ma więcej grzechów na sumieniu niż Magister "trudnych" słów w swoim słowniku. / Don't make me laugh, Geralt. Simplicity suits you like a fist in a nose and sentimentality suits you even less. You can't deny that. You're too smart. Besides, who do you want to defend? Foltest? A monarch with more sins on his conscience than Professor has long words in his vocabulary.

3.Widzę, że nie uczysz się na błędach. Ale to już nie jest determinacja, tylko zwykła głupota. Chcesz, żebym cię zaskoczył? Dobrze. Pamiętasz magiczną księgę z Wieży na bagnach? Oto kilka przydatnych zaklęć, które mi podarowałeś. / I see you don't learn from your mistakes. But that's not determination, that's just stupidity. Want me to surprise you? Fine. Remember the magic book from the Tower in the swamp? Observe some useful spells you gave me.

1. Dobrze. Pamiętaj tylko, że nie jestem koronerem. Ty musisz zinterpretować to, co zobaczymy. Im lepiej się przygotujesz, tym więcej się dowiesz. Spotkajmy się wieczorem, tymczasem pokręć się po mieście i zdobądź jak najwięcej poszlak. / All right. Just remember I'm not a coroner. You'll have to interpret whatever we find. The better you prepare the more you'll learn. We'll meet in the evening. In the meantime, look around town and gather as many clues as you can.

Z góry dziękuję/ Thanks in advance !
PS. Jeśli ktoś może pamięta jakieś różnice w dialogach polskich i angielskich albo inne różnice na podłożu językowym, jak elementy związane z kulturą polską, czy coś co takiego i mógłby się podzielić, byłabym wdzięczna. Jeśli ktoś miałby ochotę podzielić się czymś związanym z 2 albo 3 częścią też chętnie przyjmę. / If anyone can remember any differences in Polish and English dialogues, or other differences on linguistic level, such as elements related to Polish culture, or something like that and could share, I would appreciate it. If anyone would like to share something related to the 2nd or 3rd part I would also be glad.