Airboat rides near ft lauderdale

I am hitching through France to get to Madrid (and I know Spain is infamously terrible for catching rides!)
Would you recommend trying to head to Paris via the A1 since presumably a lot of traffic goes to/from there, or will I be trapped too long near the city centre?
Should I go instead down the A28 toward Rouen and Bordeaux, since that's the more direct route?
Anyone with experience in France I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Will installing a hitch and/or towing anything of any weight void the warranty on a 2023 Nissan Kicks? Does anybody have any direct experience with this?
The exclusions in the warranty include: "Misuse, such as using the vehicle to tow," but the exact same language is used in the warranty for the Nissan Frontier and the Nissan Rogue. The Manuals and Guides section for Nissan Kicks on the Nissan website has a link to a Towing Guide, so the presence of that would seem to indicate that some potential owners might be contemplating towing with a Nissan Kicks. The Towing Guide says that it is a good idea to discuss your towing requirements with your dealer or a professional installer before you equip your Nissan for towing. The local Nissan dealer near where I live said that according to the data he looked up, a Kicks could tow up to about 1,000 lbs. He gave the name of a professional installer that the dealership recommended. He said it should be able to tow a small sailboat trailer of a few hundred pounds including a lightweight fiberglass sailboat that is 13-14 ft. long. He said people had installed trailer hitches on some vehicles and there had been "no warranty issues" with any of these. He said that the phrase "Misuse, such as using the vehicle to tow" referred to using a vehicle to tow something clearly overweight, i.e., beyond the 1,000 capacity, not for using the vehicle to tow per se. He said that is how they would construe "misuse." He said they would have to prove causation. That would seem to make sense, because why would Nissan use the exact same language for a Frontier or a Rogue. But I don't know if that is how the exclusions in the warranty are applied in real life.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has seen what happens for issues of this nature at the at the warranty stage.

Will installing a hitch and/or towing anything of any weight void the warranty on a 2023 Nissan Kicks? Does anybody have any direct experience with this?
The exclusions in the warranty include: "Misuse, such as using the vehicle to tow," but the exact same language is used in the warranty for the Nissan Frontier and the Nissan Rogue. The Manuals and Guides section for Nissan Kicks on the Nissan website has a link to a Towing Guide, so the presence of that would seem to indicate that some potential owners might be contemplating towing with a Nissan Kicks. The Towing Guide says that it is a good idea to discuss your towing requirements with your dealer or a professional installer before you equip your Nissan for towing. The local Nissan dealer near where I live said that according to the data he looked up, a Kicks could tow up to about 1,000 lbs. He gave the name of a professional installer that the dealership recommended. He said it should be able to tow a small sailboat trailer of a few hundred pounds including a lightweight fiberglass sailboat that is 13-14 ft. long. He said people had installed trailer hitches on some vehicles and there had been "no warranty issues" with any of these. He said that the phrase "Misuse, such as using the vehicle to tow" referred to using a vehicle to tow something clearly overweight, i.e., beyond the 1,000 capacity, not for using the vehicle to tow per se. He said that is how they would construe "misuse." He said they would have to prove causation. That would seem to make sense, because why would Nissan use the exact same language for a Frontier or a Rogue. But I don't know if that is how the exclusions in the warranty are applied in real life.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has seen what happens for issues of this nature at the at the warranty stage.

Chapter 88 - From All I Believed
​
Morning, Two days before Shel
Captain Setar suppressed a smile as she watched the Ops door close. “Well, that was interesting…Ce’lani is a little cranky.” The last vestiges of sleep clung to her as she settled down into the command chair. She felt worn out, but it was the cusp of dawn, and Pod Seven had only just turned over control. “Report on station?”
“The perimeter’s secure,” Jelki replied crisply, pulling up the map of the campus on the main screen. “Pod One is on station and reports twelve by twelve. Sgt Ma’reis is already complaining about janitor duty.”
“Ah, first pod problems.” Setar shook her head, rubbing her eyes and blowing gently on her mug of tea. “What about the objective?”
“The objective’s secure,” Re’lan piped up, already sounding chipper. The woman could have been priestess of Jrafell. Her unwavering cheeriness would have been a character fault if she weren’t so devoted. As it was, it was a damned penance for everyone else at this time of day.
Jelke finished running the obligatory shift change checks and stretched. Things wouldn't get interesting until breakfast, but watching the perimeter was a given. It didn't keep the curiosity out of her voice, as she cocked her head and glanced over. “What was interesting with Captain Ton’is, Ma’am?”
“Mm! Well… it appears she’s expecting a call from Professor Warrick today,” Setar drawled out, taking a moment to savor their reaction. “She felt a need to remind me she’s devoted to Hele, and that if Be’ona or I let her sleep through the call, she’s going to ‘fuck us up the ass with a lasrifle and pull the trigger’.”
Re’lan was probably blushing like a cadet, but Jelke shook her head ruefully. “I expect there's a ‘but’ in there somewhere, Captain?”
“Well, yeah, she said that’s where the rifle would go…” Setar sniggered before taking a long sip from her tea, and slid a bit lower in the command couch. Her eyes wandered to the traffic on the board. “She also made it clear what’ll happen if anybody listens in.”
Thoughtful silence descended. Setar almost counted to twelve before-
“We’re going to anyway, right Captain?” Jelke asked nonchalantly. “You know, for security’s sake?”
“Sergeant, that would be a base infringement of Captain Ton’is’ privacy, which is in fucking short supply for everyone in this bunker.” She rubbed her chin thoughtfully, watching the steam rise from her mug. “Deeps right we are.”
_ _ _
Lady Wicama regarded her guest with interest as their autocab plied its way about the outskirts of Prelitauri. While she’d been free and cheerfully able to accommodate Khelira’s request, Monsignor Santino Barcio, or Friar Barcio, as he preferred, was not at all what she’d been expecting. She supposed it was a matter of exposure…
The Palace had never quite been the same since Princess Yn’dara’s wedding. Yn’dara was one of those odd Royals who, though well-regarded, was seldom in the public eye. A perennial favorite of the Empress, indulging her unexplained absences passed as a matter of course for the Court. Widely known to be estranged from her mother, Princess Arduina, no one enquired either deeply or often, so when she suddenly resurfaced, her return would have equally passed without comment… if not for the wedding.
Yn’dara had shocked the entire Nobility.
While it was common for any woman to marry into an established family and become a kho, the wedding should have been singular for a Princess. Princesses didn’t marry into families, Princesses formed them. And while Yn’dara technically had done so, she’d taken on four unmarried women at the same time as her husband, who was a Human! Favorite or no, the wags in the court were agog that the Empress accepted Adam so readily! The Empress, however, had been adamant; Yn’dara and her family had her blessings, and were to be left alone.
However, time had proven to be on Yn’dara’s side as well as the Empress.
After a wedding seen across the galaxy, Yn’dara’s family settled into a life of public duty. They spent long trips away from Shil, and while quietly dismissed as ‘pleasure excursions’, her trips often showed the throne to the outer provinces. Although her public engagements were few, she’d become a vocal advocate of the Empress’ reforms against graft and corruption, and, gradually, the jealous mutters about scandalous excess and Human debauchery faded away. Her marriage remained an unusual footnote, but time had demonstrated the value of Yn’dara and her wives to the throne.
Then there was Prince Adam.
Rumor held the Prince had made a favorable impression on the Empress years before, at an event hosted by Yn’dara’s mother. While details had never been forthcoming, a more significant story about Adam wafted briefly through the ranks of the Golden Glaives.
Both stories had been effectively silenced, but Wicama knew who to talk to, and being Khelira’s guardian carried a certain clout all its own. Though that influence waxed and waned over the years, raising Khelira required being aware of events that could shape her future, and she’d proven herself to be discreet. Over time, doors had opened and words had flowed.
Time had been on Prince Adam’s side, as well.
As the years passed, she’d had an exposure to Prince Adam that few of the court and none of the public enjoyed. She’d been wary at first, but he’d been a good friend and mentor to Princess Khelandri before she joined the Marines, and however infrequent his presence, he always displayed a keen mind, a loving heart, and a steadfast duty to his wives. Privately, he absolutely doted on young Khelira and possessed a loyalty to the Empress that you could bend battlesteel around. The two got along famously - after all, he was a veteran.
Not Navy, mind you, but you couldn’t have everything.
And so, as Humanity began making forays upon the galactic stage, her first impression of the species had been favorable. She’d witnessed Adam mature into his role with the court, and while the issue of children remained unspoken, that faded as well. At the time, Yn’dara had been sixth in the line of succession. A year after the wedding, Kamaud’re became an adult, followed a year later by Khelandri, and the matter became largely moot.
As for a second impression on Humans, Khelira had provided enthusiastic reports about Thomas Warrick. While the Princess thrived at the Academy, Warrick seemed to be something special.
The absence of a father in her life had been a void that no woman could properly fill, but she’d done her best. Although she’d entertained a few qualms, as the months passed by, Warrick remained a positive influence. Khelira’s messages were infrequent by necessity, but she’d written about her distress over Warrick’s family and clearly been moved. Prince Adam carried his own scars, but what veteran didn’t? He hid them carefully around Khelli, and if Warrick had chosen not to, he’d provided a useful sense of perspective, instead. It was time for Khelira to grow up, and that meant facing the grist of differing opinions and ugly realities. That was what education was actually for, and Warrick seemed to be doing admirably well as a grindstone.
All of that was before the library incident, which settled her opinion once and for all. While erratic, irreverent, and capable of violence, Humans clearly could be a positive influence when channeled in the right direction. Yn’dara had shown what a good Shil’vati woman was capable of with Prince Adam, and Lady Pel’avon was following suit.
And at least the wags at the Palace wouldn’t speak of Yn’dara’s state wedding again. As a subject for spectacle, Miv’eire Pel’avon’s had put it to shame.
Still, it was good to see Warrick married. While Professor Ha’meres scandalous exploits had faded from the public eye, older wo… more mature women didn’t forget such things. The man had been a daring adventurer - and an inveterate gadabout - and an unmarried man around that many young women was too tempting for some girls. A wife or two… preferably more… resolved such idle fancies. If the Pel’avon ceremony had been somewhat… questionable in taste, compared to Adam’s, it remained legally binding. Warrick was willing to settle down, and by all reports his wife had a proper sense of decorum.
Human men seemed to be a trial from the Goddess, but hopefully she and her kho-wife could sort him with time, love, and kindness.
While exposure to only two Humans was not what she’d call a comprehensive sample, in both cases her impressions had been quite positive. And so, when Khelli asked her to escort a Human Priest about the city, she’d been entirely willing.
Thus far, it had been an enjoyable morning. While there had been occasional missteps, their conversation had been delightful as they traveled from property to property. Even so, she hadn’t expected to meet such a kindred spirit.
Admittedly she’d stammered a bit when he mentioned eating the flesh and drinking the blood of his redeemer. On the other hand, she compared it to the first time she’d bled into the ocean, mingling salt in her blood with the seas. He’d turned shockingly pale, so she changed the subject. It was a purely symbolic act to Drepna - just a cut on the thumb, for goddess sake...
She’d taken extra care afterwards. Barcio could be clearly a sensitive male, but diplomacy was part of her work. Even calling her role ‘work’ was deceptive. She’d raised Khelira in every way an Empress could not.
It was easy for other women to appreciate the prestige of her position, but few understood the depth of it - or the satisfaction.
During her career in the Navy, her flotilla had provided direct support for the Empress, and they’d come to work closely over three tours. After Khelira’s birth years later, the invitation came from the Royal Household to act as her guardian, and she’d never looked back. Competition had been fierce for the prestigious position, but applying had been the best move of her life.
Empress Kamilesh loved all her children and had spent as much time with each of them as she could, but her work was all-consuming, and after her husband’s act of… Well, the Empress had been there, but she’d born her pain privately. She had lost herself in her work for many years before recovering a semblance of her former self, and her absence had taken a toll on her children. Kamaud’re had taken it the worst. Khelandri had bounced back, while everyone doted on Lu’ral. Barely more than an infant, Khelira had been far too young to remember. Wicama had been there through all of it.
It was a good life, and the princess was a delightful girl. For Wicama, the absence of a man in her life was something she’d felt now and then, but she invested her life in Khelira. The Empress treated her as a member of the family in all but name… and in a very real sense, the child you raised was your child.
Looking back, some women might insinuate she’d given up her personal life to raise another woman’s daughter. They couldn’t have been more wrong.
She had her calling - just as Friar Barcio had his.
Yes, he was a priest, and his religious strictures were very unusual. A male priest in any of the Shil’vati faiths would never be placed under such restraints, and for a man to go unmarried was noteworthy…
But she understood having a calling. Oh yes, she understood that as few others could.
After discussing his needs, they’d set out to examine three properties around Prelitauri. The Friar’s individual requirements were deceptively difficult when taken as a whole. A complex coupling a generous auditorium, ample administrative space, and he clearly needed substantial grounds to properly convey a sense of aura. Such accommodations were seldom on the market, and since he expected his colleagues to arrive in weeks, his need was immediate.
Thankfully, urban renewal moved in waves. The tides of such fashions meant Prelitauri was once again an up-and-coming area. While difficult to find, three older structures had the potential to be suitable, and so it was that she’d enjoyed learning about her guest as they explored the tiny district.
The Monsignor spoke four other Earth languages fluently. He tended to break into his native tongue and hadn’t mastered contractions yet, but his Vatikre was passable and he listened carefully, seldom needing to ask about a word. After limiting her contractions when she spoke, their conversation flowed easily.
Barcio had shown little enthusiasm for the first two properties, but their conversation regarding other matters never waned. She expanded on her devotion to Drepna, Shil and the roles of each goddess while asking careful questions of his faith. His own inquiries proved thoughtful, and he was as avid in politely asking after her beliefs as explaining his faith.
After their second hour together, she’d taken the liberty of calling Prelate Hi’meta Merlamiss. As a priestess of Drepna’s second circle, Merlamiss had proven a valuable contact over the years. Well connected, she enjoyed a good relationship with many other prelates of the Divine Halls; she also got on well with Xinfess, the Rakiri’s Speaker of the Dark Mother on Shil. A meeting with Barcio would readily open doors for his group that might otherwise prove difficult to attain, and while Barcio’s accent strained now and then, it was clear the Monsignor and the Prelate shared a questionably low sense of humor.
Given a chance, they’d probably get on famously.
Certainly, that would be a blessing. Their hunt for a suitable facility had not gone nearly so well, and while Barcio had been conciliatory toward the first two facilities, she could tell he wasn’t taken with either. The last property wasn’t high in her expectations, so she found herself casting her head to the side when it swept into view and he clasped his hands in excitement.
”*È bella!* This is beautiful,” he exclaimed. “It reminds me a bit of my childhood home in Sacile!”
She looked out at the complex with its low gabled roofs, as their cab wound up from the entrance. Beside the drive, a small river meandered through the campus past the main buildings. She tapped the console to slow their ride and considered the place in a new light. “I’m… well, a bit surprised to be honest, Friar.”
“Please! We have been traveling for hours now, and I am not holding a service.” The Friar spared her a warm smile, before gazing back at the premises. “I would take it as a great kindness if you would call me Santino.”
“Very well - on the condition you call me Wicama.” It had been some time since anyone called her by anything but title or rank, and the informality was pleasant. Still, as their autocab closed on the end of the lane, she let such thoughts go and considered the location properly.
The buildings were low, sensible cubes, but that was largely an end to it. The architect had made some unusual choices in Helkam motifs that strained understanding. A long colonnade bordered the river, and that seemed nice enough, but the buildings! Forgoing purple was one thing, but they were beige! With unusual elements and the repressively bland color scheme, it was small wonder the clerk handling the property confessed that the space had lain vacant. Its original owners went into foreclosure. The exotic design had proven unable to attract interest, laying dormant ever since.
Barcio… Santino… seemed delighted, however, and she pulled up the specifications on her omni-pad. “This site has two smaller auditoriums besides the main one, while the central building has four floors. One is underground, but all the floors face an interior atrium.”
As the cab gently halted in the car park, she climbed out to hold the door but Santino had already scrambled out and was examining the gardens with evident interest. Tall stands of parago trees were losing the last of their fronds for the year, but she had to admit the grounds were substantial. Yesterday’s storm had left the morning air cold and crisp, lending the gardens an appealing aspect. Untended since the last owners, much could be done with them.
She had given up trying to escort the Friar anywhere after their first two stops, and now they fell into an easy pace side by side as they strolled toward the main building. She turned back to the property itself. “So, this reminds you of your home?”
It wasn’t exactly Helkam architecture - domes weren’t covering every possible surface - but the builder had clearly been nodding in that direction. A promenade wound to the entry, supporting white chevrons that arced into the sky. The bright morning sky shone through clever cutouts, making the unusual design at least look light, rather than oppressive and unappealing. With a decent renovation, the facility had possibilities, and the price was comparatively low.
“*Si!* Oh, not so much like home, but there is the sense of it. I was born near the sea, and this feels… similar.” He gave her a depreciating smile before rolling his eyes. “It may not please everyone who is coming, but ‘everyone’ is not here, so I am allowed some indulgence! Better to have something waiting than nothing at all. I confess, some of my colleagues thought we’d only manage when the bridge to Messina is finished.”
“You should not have been sent ahead alone! Surely your colleagues were not that worried about a poor reception,” she tutted. Priest or no, there were decencies about a man traveling alone to be observed. “You shouldn't need a bridge to find a place for your mission. I don’t know where Messina is, but I’m certain Prelate Marlemis wouldn’t stand for it!”
“Tch! Excuse my poor efforts! The older I get, the more I remember things like yesterday. Unfortunately, the yesterdays I remember so well were thirty years ago!” Barcio smiled wryly up at her as they walked. “The ‘bridge to Messina’ used to be a saying… People dreamed of building a bridge to Sicily, and it became something that never happened. My English friends would instead say ‘when hell freezes over’. *Un'espressione volgare*, but very much to the point.”
“Ah… I’m sure we can manage something, and this could be made presentable. Maybe change the beige to a pale violet?” she offered helpfully as she made it to the door first, holding it open. “The aura inside isn’t so bad.”
“You’ve said that several times, but I do not know what you mean?” He paused in looking around the entry, which had an open foyer exposing the two floors above and led out to the atrium beyond. “What is ‘aura’? I do not think I know the word as you mean it.”
“Aura is… Hmm…” Wicama paused thoughtfully and gestured at the atrium. The interior was in better shape than the grounds, and the architect had done something clever. Not yet noon, a bevel along the top edge filled the space with sunlight. “Have you ever walked along a beach and wanted to save a shell? When you are there, that is aura… When you take the shell home and think of the beach, that is aura, but… less focused. Diminished. You sense the beach because of the shell, but you are not at the beach. Places can have aura, but it is more than character. If you move through a place and find yourself experiencing it? That is aura.”
“Mhm! *lodevole!*“I like this idea very much. It would be right at home in the Vatican. Not everyone understands a space can move the spirit, or lend power to a message.” He nodded thoughtfully as he cast his eye about the open space. “With the right advice, perhaps we can lead others to these halls.”
“Perhaps. If you tour the Palace, I hope you’ll allow me to show you about? A lot of the real gems are hidden from the public.” She watched as he wandered toward the double-helixed stairways bordering the room. Those were definitely Helkam; walking up one side without meeting someone coming down the other was an interesting experience… once. After that, they could be an absolute nuisance. Spotting the elevators, she called him back. “The nice thing is this place is inexpensive! That will pad out your funds for a good remodel.”
Wicama quietly thanked the Goddesses that the builder’s had the good sense to install normal Shil’vati-style elevators. The sides were open, granting a wide view out over the atrium. The grounds were terraced to create a small park; that could make the underground space bearable, and the plans made them seem spacious enough. Not to everyone’s taste, but pretty. “I feel bad for asking, but can you afford the building? If the price of the first two bothered you, we can find others.”
“I would not hear of it! Thank you for your concern, but we are economical with our funds, and were sent with a generous sum. This is an important venture to everyone involved,” Barcio clasped a hand over his chest, as he shook his head. “I can not thank you enough for your help! You have surely spared me weeks, and I might not have found something half so suitable. As it is, the grounds are enough to gain me converts. Father Roscio and Pastor Weber will surely plant a vineyard before the inside is half done!”
“It’s not a problem. I have plenty of time,” she replied, dismissing the matter as inconsequential. “I work at the Palace, but with the Court away and my daughter at school, I’m a bit at loose ends just now. At the very least, I insist on helping you through the paperwork. I wouldn’t put it past some realty clerks to try and overcharge you… Someone from outside Shil, that is. I’ll ensure they stick to the listing.”
“To someone not from Shil… or someone who is not Shil’vati, perhaps?” His head canted slightly to one side, but he smiled as he said it. “*Certamente!* I would not dream of preventing you, though Rabbi Kleinbaum will be bitterly disappointed she has nothing to moan about.”
“I hope you won't take this badly, as I’ve only met one Human.” Wicama gave him a smile. She was long past girlish uncertainty, and the Navy had taught her a generous measure of professional poise to go with her skills as a markswoman. “You aren’t what I expected.”
“You know the professore, then?” He sucked in a breath and pursed his lips. “I am still deciding what sort of man he is.”
“No, actually, I know another Human but I’ve not… I have not… met Professor Warrick.”
“So. You mean that I am not *un barbaro*? I am here to make sure that we are seen as something more than savage warriors, *capisci*?” He studied her expectantly. “While the Imperium is doing good work on Earth, some still live in want. The Imperium provides enough for all to survive, but not all live in plenty. We need to present ourselves well.”
”That seems like a very secular outlook.” She offered, as they rode up to the third floor. Barcio asked for an explanation of the word, and by the time they’d made their way through the first offices he had the idea.
“My church has not always troubled itself with such things, but our holy father is greatly concerned with such inequalities. He takes it upon himself to address such matters with the Governess, when their time allows.”
“Your church has a good relationship with her?”
“È straordinario! The Governess adores our food, and while she was adamant about taking quarters in the Vatican, she has taken pains not to disturb us.” He shrugged dismissively. “*Cosa sai fare?* It seemed a small price, and we have endured far worse.”
“I used to hear terrible stories about red zones on Earth, though the Humans I’ve met don't seem the sort. It is good that your… pulp?” She tried the word and was rewarded with kind laughter and a gentle correction. “It is good that your pope concerns himself with the full welfare of the people and works with your governess. Our prelates share the same concerns.”
“I thought the Empress was the head of your church? Now, I find you have many…” he groped for a word, frowning, and gave up. “*Questo accento è una prova di fede!* ‘Denominations’ is not the right word, but she is the one revered, yes?”
“Of course! The Empress has to show all of our virtues and none of our faults, but that’s part of her role. To favor any divinity over the others could cause divisions. She has her personal preferences, of course, but never lets them be known.” Wicama explained carefully. “It would be in poor taste.”
“And poor politics, I think?” Santino gave her a long look. At his height it was difficult, but he managed. “This makes sense to me now, that the Imperium leaves matters of faith alone. *Una benedizione inaspettata.*”
Despite the serious topic, his fervent reply brought a smile back to her lips. “It seems your pope considers politics as well as economics.”
“People will always defend economic theories which assume that growth will inevitably succeed in bringing about greater justice. This has never been confirmed by the facts, and expresses a crude trust in the goodness of those wielding economic power and the sacralized workings of the prevailing economic system.” He said, stopping to clasp a hand over his cross. “Meanwhile, the excluded are still waiting.”
“That doesn't sound like scripture.” She offered cautiously, as they made their way into a wider suite of offices on the second floor.
“*Esattamente* The words of Pope Francis, a good and blessed man who appointed me to my position. His successor, his holiness John Paul the Third, is much of the same mind.” Santino said quietly. “Our savior washed the feet of others and urged all to do the same. The hardest step is to be involved. To work together for change, as well as to pray. That is why I am here.
“*I pigri di cuore trovano sempre una scusa* Some Humans, they are yet angry with the Imperium. Now they have enough, they are bitter not to have plenty. For some there is never enough - the true poverty lies within their hearts,” Santino said a bit testily. “Our faith teaches us to find salvation in eternal life, but others? *Pigrizia!* They see it as an excuse from taking agency in themselves. Jesus washed the feet of others - he did not lay down and wait for someone to wash his!”
Wicama turned the unfamiliar metaphor over in her mind but decided she had the sense of it. “Sham teaches us that helping our families and one another is the same as helping ourselves. ‘The rising tide bares us all from the reefs’.” It was a matter of faith… but that was why it was faith in the first place. On the whole, it seemed like a mature perspective that explained the changes she’d seen in Prince Adam over the years. “You’re here to meet with others, but this seems as much about knowing yourselves.”
“*Sì, non è una brutta cosa avere umiltà davanti a Dio.* Human beings, while we are capable of the worst, we are also capable of choosing the good. Of rising up to make a new start. We are entering the galaxy.” He gestured out the window at the world beyond. “If not now… when?”
_ _ _ “So, when are you going to explain this masterpiece you four have been cooking up?” Marin asked. Sammi and Sam were barely awake but the twins had already arrived, bright-eyed and enthusiastic, and Marin cursed the resilience of youth. The room was acceptably warm, but Ayen had complained about the cold and used the excuse to slip back into bed. She was considering her options for joining him.
Somewhere, somehow, Sammi had found their rabbit pajamas again. “Sam, explain it to her? You do it better.” Sammi yawned, but Marin suspected it was an act. Once something got their attention, sleep was usually an afterthought.
“What, now?” Sam had barely stumbled into the room and blinked. Bleary-eyed and barely awake, he looked like he’d been ambushed, which was exactly the case.
“Pllllllleeeease…?” They sat back pulling the ears, giving their best Roger Rabbit impression. Luminous green eyes peered out at Sam, imploringly.
“Alright… I need coffee, but fine.” Sam trudged over to the kitchenette and poked listlessly at the instant coffee. It was getting perilously low, but Marin was sure he’d brought more on the ship. Eventually Sam gestured at the K’herbhal sisters with his mug. “So the girls want to create an artificial topological soliton. It's like a black hole, except where it isn't… It's sort of a kink in space-time.”
“Made you say kink!” Sammi grinned impishly and the girls blushed. Marin shook her head but paid attention. It felt far too early after another late night, but once everyone was up you had to hang on for whatever came next.
“So, what's that got to do with this… hole you want to use for power?” Marin raised her voice just enough to drag the conversation back on track.
“It’s more like a side effect. If it cuts the right angle, it goes into a realm of space-time we can tap for power. Think of it as an obverse of an energy drain, so it's like a white hole.”
“Let me guess.” Marin shook her head and grinned, holding up a hand to forestall the inevitable. “Except where it isn’t?”
“Ummm… pretty much.” Sam grumbled, blowing at his coffee. Marin glanced back at the twins. With Sam busy, the twins had gravitated to either side of Sammi. There was room left on the couch, and she wandered over to settle in beside one of them.
The Sams had been complaining for years about a lack of ‘focal power’ for their mass compression technologies, and while a rubber duck inside a diamond was impressive, they’d wanted to do something more - a lot more. She suspected if the twins were providing the means, then they already had something about to surface from the depths of their imaginations. Over the years she’d learned to pick a bit, rather than take their answers at straight value. “And if things don’t cut at the right angle? You remember how long it took to get rid of the Navy, when you started talking about making black holes?”
“It's not our fault they didn’t understand,” Sammi said defensively, crossing their arms and pouting at her before the rabbit ears fell over their face.
“Who didn’t understand what?” Akeimei yawned at the door. She cast a wink her way before wrapping her arms around Sam and gave him a quick hug. “What did I miss?”
“Umm… a parallel universe, if the math is right,” Sam mumbled from the depths of his coffee cup.
“What? Like identical versions of us?” Marin watched Akimei’s nose wrinkled at the smell before she slipped away from Sam. Slipped down beside her, they rubbed shoulders a moment. “Tell me, is there one where I get more sleep?”
“More or less identical… though it's not like you need to go into a parallel universe for that sort of thing. There’s already a ‘you’ out there somewhere right now, to say nothing of past and future ‘you’.” Sam scratched his cheek idly for a moment “It's just the math. The universe is so vast that there are exact physical cosmic twins of us out there somewhere, not to mention even more almost-twins.”
“Sam’s right!” Sammi perked up excitedly, bouncing on the sofa. “Then there are quantum cosmic twins - which gets weird because particles exist in multiple states and you’d sort of overlap… but the easiest one is probably just another us elsewhere in the universe right now! That's sort of the point where things are since the universe is bigger than you can imagine!”
“So exactly the same… or almost.” One of the twins giggled. “Just like us!”
“Pretty much,” Sam nodded, slowly emerging from the depths of his coffee. “Another you out there on another Shil, or another me on a whole Earth, even - just a little bit different.”
“What? Like an Earth that never met the Imperium?” Marin canted her head, tossing out the obvious. It was hard to remember her life before, and she didn’t want to contemplate the alternative.
“Oh, I don't like that idea.” One of the twins stuck out her lip. “We want to come to Earth!”
“Yeah,” her sister nodded, though she suddenly looked glum. “I don’t know if Professor Warrick would mind though. He’d be with his wife and daughter, there.”
“Oh…” her sister's face crumpled. “I didn’t think of it that way.”
“Well, don’t…” Sammi hugged them both a moment, though they held the first twin a bit tighter. “The point is, somewhere he’s with them right now!”
“Wow, I guess so.” she brightened. “Just imagine! A whole Earth that never met the Shil’vati!”
“I wouldn’t worry, sis.” her twin nodded. “I think Professor Warrick is pretty happy right now.”
_ _ _
“I am not happy about this!” Tom glared at his omni-pad before tossing it down in frustration.
Miv looked up at her husband.
“It’s an honor!” She tucked her chin in and gave him a long, considered look, “What is it that’s bothering you - really? It wasn't Monsignor Barcio. Are you certain this isn't the same sort of thing?”
“Yes, I’m sure!” he growled, looking away like a guilty child. “Alright, maybe… but this uniform is the silliest thing I’ve ever seen. I’ll look like a mushroom, and the hat only makes it worse!" Tom grimaced at the omni-pad accusingly, "They won’t take ‘no’ for an answer, so now I’m on the rolls as a Warden Captain - whatever that is - and this ceremony is ridiculous!”
“The ceremony is traditional. Very symbolic... Besides, they don't make wardens out of anyone below the rank of captain - I looked it up. You were one before, so it's appropriate to make you one instead of a Warden Major or Warden Colonel.” She smiled at him serenely. “Surely, it can’t be the worst thing you’ve ever done.”
He turned to wag a finger her way. “I’ll take that bet!”
“Worse than our wedding reception…?” She crooned, teasing him. “Or maybe pre-term night? I swear by the Goddess no one will pinch your ass, except for Lea and I.”
“Fine… “ Her smile grew wider as he grumbled, but he was calming down already and there wasn't heat in it. Still, he stubbornly clung on to the point a while longer. "It’s in my top five.”
“I’m sure you’ll survive, husband. Now then, I have meetings all afternoon, so why don't you finish reviewing the menu? You’ll feel better when all this is over and you can go back to cooking, chess, or starting that eeeyiy club… You might even give Ce’lani a call or message her?” She gathered her coat and smiled demurely, though it harbored nothing innocent. “If I’m not here you’ll have perfect privacy… Just don't promise anything you wouldn't promise to me.”
“It’s iai-do…” Tom groused, but he was already picking up his omni-pad.
She blew him a kiss and made her way toward the commons. Tom would probably stew a while, but he’d make the call.
There would be time to meet with Ce’lani on the common, before she had to come home for dinner.
_ _ _
Tom looked over the banquet menu as if it might reach out and bite him. The words stared up at him with perfect innocence.
Appetizer: Fruit and Cheese Platter - Slices of various cheeses and fruits on a platter providing a delicate mix of sweet, tangy and creamy to invigorate the dining experience. Serve with a selection of sweet and semi-sweet wines.
Soup: Choice of Tomato or French Onion Soup - Served with a piece of baguette and cheese.
Salad: Strawberry Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing -- an assortment of greens and fruit with a balsamic grain dressing to cleanse the palate.
Entree: Cornish Pasty - This herb-infused meat and pastry dish provides a counterpoint to the tangy taste of the salad and soup. Served with a creamy buttered mashed potato (a vegetable, humanely prepared!) with chives (also a vegetable). Served with a selection of wines or ales.
Dessert: Chef’s Sorbet Surprise - A sweet treat complemented by a palate cleanser, ending the meal on a piquant note.
His last call with Bherdin had been a trial and a half. Omni-pads were the definition of ‘high fidelity’, and hearing the little Shil’vati hyperventilate for ten minutes over the plan was pointless. At least Melondi had easier going with Vedeem on her side... one way or another this was happening.
As a final consolation, he relented on wearing matching suits. Bherdin frequently bemoaned Tom’s 'lamentable' fashion sense, and he perked up at that, promising to get him some appropriate formalwear for the occasion.
Privately, he suspected his Shil’vati friend was looking for a convenient alibi if a riot started.
In fairness, it probably wasn't a bad idea.
“Too late to use it myself…” he muttered. It wasn’t quite noon, and Miv was probably right. Instead of Chess Club or starting Iai-do practice or just cooking out at Human Food, he was stuck here at home. Miv’s place was bigger, but most of his stuff was still in boxes; it left him listless and climbing the walls. If this worked, at least things could get back to normal.
…Mostly normal…
He flipped back to the picture of the Warden uniform on his omni-pad. It was bad enough, but the hat made the whole thing look like a blue toadstool in silver filigree.
He swiped the picture away like an act of revenge, but didn’t toss the pad back on the table.
…Miv was right... and I promised to call Ce’lani…
Tom centered himself, pulling up the number. The universe was always in motion and a good Taoist accepted their part in what came. That was the lesson of ‘the Vinegar Tasters’, and it held true… The painting showed three men standing around a vat of vinegar. Each has dipped his finger into the vinegar and tasted it. The expression on each man's face showed his individual reaction.
The painting was an allegory for Confucius, Buddha, and Lao-tse. Confucius wore a sour look on his face. He believed life was out of harmony with the universe. As the second figure in the painting, Buddha had a bitter expression. Like the vinegar, life was painful and filled with attachments and desires that led to suffering. The last man, Lao-tse, was smiling at the taste. To him, harmony existed naturally and could be found by anyone at any time in any experience.
He thought about his buddy Dave. The old Marine would probably shake his head and tell him to ‘embrace the suck.’ It pretty much boiled down to the same thing.
Not that he was against calling. Miv and Lea had practically taken turns urging him on and giving their views on why it was a good idea. They hadn't harped about it, but he knew which way the wind was blowing. And Ce’lani’s message had been short, sweet in the literal sense, and the sound file she’d offered up had been…
…Pretty nice, really…
If he still said no, or decided he didn't like where this was going, they’d back his choice, of course. He didn't have a doubt in his mind… But with everything else in his life turned upside down, calling Ce’lani seemed like a calm in the eye of a storm.
…It's just a phone call. Leave the chaos at the gate…
He settled down on the couch to check his messages before giving her a call. It was nearly lunch…

My dog loved me. You could see it in every ounce of her being. She was a pound dog. Black and white pitbull mix. Those dogs never get adopted. This was in a rural area of the oilfield, so I didn't have many options. It took me 15mins to get the collar on here cause she had so much pent up energy. She literally had a crazy eye b/c of it. I worked the poop outta that dog. All day hikes with a weighted doggy backpack. Long jogs. Even rode a bicycle while walking her. She had limitless energy. Yeah, she slept for like 45mins after an all day hike, but then was bouncing around crazy again. She nearly tore my finger off once. She was very protective of bones as I found out. She spent time on the street, so they figured she found a bone as food. But damn when I went to take away the bone. BITE. HOLD. SHAKE. Fuck did that hurt. I think she had PTSD. She was only ever happy in a room alone with me. Or on a car ride. She hated big men for some reason. I wish I would've tried CBD oil for pets with her. That might have helped. I think I gave that dog more life anyone else would've.
So I smoked meth, as I usually do. But we're in a heatwave and I sweated the fuck outta my only 2 shirts. Smells like onions. I never smell. Never. Don't know wtf is going on.
I got half a 40 ouncer left. Just generic whiskey. I stole a bottle from the gov run liqour store a few days ago. I just do it outta principle. $30 for a fifth is robbery. I understand that otherwise good ppl get addicted to alcohol. But I'm not in that camp. I'm a bad person. Who's in a lot pain from the things I've done. And I wish booze was more affordable here so that I can get into that urn a bit faster. My little brother can keep a bit of the ashes, but I want some sprinkled in the lake I went to on my first solo backcountry canoe trip. Trips like those was the closest thing I've had to peace on this earth.
Chairs.

Saw it fit to make a help thread for stickers since there's little to no guides on them yet. I'll update this post with the ones I can find.
First off, I'm pretty sure you need to have the camera equipped to actually take pictures of the stickers and collect them. You can get the camera from the present in Make A Star 2 (the sleepy guy's stage). It's on an RC car in the park area, very hard to miss.
Hot tip by the way, stickers are collected as soon as they're counted as being in a picture you take. You can quit out or fail the level, you wont lose the sticker.
Page 1

• The Tower of Babel - As Large As Possible 1 - On the calendar on the wall of the room (look up)
• Dragon Buster - As Fast As Possible 1 - On the underside of a picture frame that's serving as a bridge between the couch and the cabinet next to it.
• Namco Classic - As Fast As Possible 2 - Inside the doghouse near one of the start points. The dog will push you around, so stand back a bit.
• Dig Dug 2 - As Large As Possible 4 - On the center of the ferris wheel near the end of the level

Page 2

• Family Stadium 2 - Flowers (As many as possible) - Behind the upright bear in the bottom area.
• Galaga 1 - Flowers (As fast as possible) - On the trunk of the tree that Ichigo is riding a deer around. Same tree that also has the present in it.
• Mappy 1 - Saturn (Big) - At the end of the great wall of china, right below one of the spawn positions.

Page 3

• Mappy 2 - Cowbear - On a cargo container on the big cargo ship. You can climb onto the boat safely to the left of the stage where a game show is happening, then climb up to where the two person horse costume is.
• Metro-Cross - Only 50 - On the backside of the safari gate arch.
• Pac-Man 1 - Field of Sweets - On the wall immediately behind the start of the level. Hidden partially by a tree.
• Pac-Man 2 - Underwater (As large as possible) - On the front of the big tree stump above the lake.
• Rally X-1 - Campfire (Medium) - Behind the tent near where the present is. Keep in mind that your fire will burn out if you take too long taking your picture.

Page 4

• Dragon Spirit 2 - Snowman - On the door to the igloo.
• Dragon Spirit 3 - Fireflies - Behind the waterfall.
• Splatterhouse 1 - Cousins - Inside the umbrella that Lalala is laying under.

Page 5

• Toy Pop 2 - Study Time - In the bookshelf next to the start of the level, on the underside of the upper shelf.
• Valkyrie no Boken 1 - Study Time - On the underside of the bed in the part where you can go underneath it.
• Valkyrie no Boken 2 - Ballerina Hunt - In the water exhibit on the right side wall of the seating area.
• Wagyan Land - Ballerina Hunt - In the safari area behind the big safari sign near the start of the level (there's camels running around near it).
• Mr. Driller - Night School - On the wall in one of the bathroom stalls.

That's all I've got so far. Feel free to contribute, this seems like a fun collection to solve as a group.

I want to go on a bike ride but it must be near NH highway as I dont want to travel on other roads.
Please suggest a location where I can go, chill for a while, have breakfast and come back.

Introduction:
When it comes to installing an elevator, whether for residential or commercial purposes, several factors must be taken into consideration to ensure a safe and efficient vertical transportation system. In this article, we will discuss ten essential things to consider before buying an elevator, with valuable tips from Teknix Elevators, one of the leading elevator companies in India, specifically in Bangalore and Hyderabad.
Safety Features:
Safety should be the foremost priority when choosing an elevator. Look for residential lifts in Bangalore that comply with international safety standards and regulations. Ensure that the elevator is equipped with features such as emergency stop buttons, interlocks, safety sensors, and fire-rated doors to protect passengers in the event of an emergency.
Space and Capacity:
Evaluate the available space in your building to determine the appropriate size and capacity of the elevator. Consider the number of passengers it needs to accommodate, as well as the size and weight of potential users, including those with disabilities. Teknix Elevators, known for manufacturing the best home elevators in Bangalore, offers customizable options to suit diverse requirements.
Energy Efficiency:
Choose an elevator that is energy-efficient to reduce your carbon footprint and operational costs. Look for elevators equipped with energy-saving technologies such as LED lighting, regenerative drives, and standby mode to conserve energy when not in use.
Maintenance and Service:
Consider the availability of maintenance and service support from the elevator company. Opt for companies like Teknix Elevators, which have a reputation for providing prompt and reliable after-sales service. Regular maintenance is crucial for the smooth operation and longevity of the elevator.
Customization Options:
If you have specific design requirements or preferences, look for elevator manufacturers in Bangalore, like Teknix Elevators, that offer customization options. This allows you to personalize the elevator's aesthetics, cabin finishes, and control panel to match your building's décor and style.
Noise and Vibration:
Elevators should operate smoothly and quietly to ensure a comfortable ride for passengers. Consider elevators that incorporate noise and vibration reduction technologies to minimize disturbances, especially in residential buildings.
Compliance with Accessibility Standards:
If you require an elevator for a building that needs to be accessible to people with disabilities, ensure that the elevator complies with accessibility standards such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or the National Building Code (NBC) of India. These standards govern features like cabin size, button placement, and handrail height.
Reliability and Durability:
Invest in an elevator that is reliable and built to last. Look for reputable elevator companies in Hyderabad and Bangalore known for their quality and durability. Check customer reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the reliability and longevity of their products.
Future Expansion:
Consider the potential need for future expansion or modernization. Choose an elevator system that allows for easy upgrades and integration of advanced technologies. This future-proofing approach ensures that your elevator can adapt to changing needs and technological advancements.
Budget and Cost:
Evaluate your budget and consider the long-term cost implications of owning and maintaining an elevator. While price is a factor, prioritize the overall value and quality of the elevator system rather than solely focusing on upfront costs. A reliable and well-maintained elevator will provide a better return on investment in the long run.
Conclusion:
When purchasing an elevator, it is crucial to carefully consider factors such as safety features, space and capacity, energy efficiency, maintenance and service, customization options, noise and vibration reduction, compliance with accessibility standards, reliability and durability, future expansion possibilities, and budget.
For more information:
website:https://www.teknixelevators.com/
https://www.teknixelevators.com/optima-home-elevators
Address: #125 Gala Square, 4th floor, R V Road, V V Puram, Near Lalbagh West Gate Bangalore-560004.
Email: [email protected]
Contact: 1800 1200 903

Today I'm celebrating the birthday of my Gloomhaven/Frosthaven companion app with its first alpha release v0.0.1 (online version) one year ago in 2022! As a gift, I also released the initial commit version v0.0.0 with even less features!
If you compare the first versions with the current one, you will notice that it has been a big ride until today, but you can also see some things that are still there! With 332(!) releases by now, I have been releasing almost one version a day 😅. (~0.88, but we love to round up positive values, don't we?)
First of all, I would like to thank the great Gloomhaven/Frosthaven community, who helped me a lot with feedback, bug reports and feature requests. All that Frosthaven support has been a big challenge (also because I don't own FH yet and still playing my first GH campaign), but I think all the important things have been covered by now.
Special thanks to all the contributors (especially u/Squinter for all the Frosthaven (and other scenario) data, many players will enjoy your work as well!) Check out the GitHub graphs on the contributors page to see how much the community has contributed!
Also a big thank you to u/Tarmslitaren2 for his X-haven Assistant. I really appreciate that the biggest competitor is also an open source project and that we can help and complement each other. (And I think this is also a thank you to the community in general, because I cannot imagine other communities being so open and friendly about such topics!)
Last but not least, a few updates:
First, an important notice: I'll be on holiday for the next two weeks, so I won't keep my update frequency during that time (and I really hope that the current version is stable enough that I don't need to provide any hot fixes).
Secondly, I don't think I'll be able to enumerate all the new features and bug fixes, so here's a list of the changes that come to mind after my last posts:

• FH data complete, most other data validated
• Scenario rewards
• Track buildings (at the bottom of the FH campaign sheet, to force an upgrade for e.g. Baracks, double click/long press on the upgrade button)
• Town Guard Deck (also available on the FH Campaign Sheet, must be expanded, can only be drawn when in Outpost Phase, ergo not playing a scenario)
• Items available through correct unlocks like buildings etc. (had to fix that all potions were already available on Alchemist building from the beginning to not spoil the complete alchemist table, so if you already used those potions and now think there gone, please go to item management on global campaign sheet and unlock corresponding items manually, brewing will come in near future)
• add counter for character tokens (in character menu or dragging on character icon)
• permanent character AM decks (enable in settings)
• Besides these features and everything I forgot, a lot of bugs have been fixed (and hopefully not new ones created) and things have been improved

Third, plans for the future (in order of timeline)

• Support for brewing (unlocking potions by spending herbs, and thus implementing the alchemist's table somehow, see point on second list)
• (finally) combine these objectives into a single line like Summons or Monster Standees (this has been open for a long time, but also requires a lot of work, so give me some time)
• Support for the specific Frosthaven building #90, challenges. So currently only challenge rewards are available, but many challenges could be applied in the scenario directly
• up-to-the-minute: Support for GH2E 🥳
• on the maybe list: Battle Goals and Event Cards, gets a lot of requests, but don't know if it's worth the work.

As always, latest version online at gloomhaven-secretariat.de (also installable on most devices), source code on GitHub.
And not to forget the other cool free applications X-Haven Assistant and Gloomhaven Full Stack (which will hopefully come back soon with FH assets).

So I've been an associate for about 2 and a half years, started at a DC, and through ride troubles etc I transferred to a store as overnight maintenance.
I am TIRED of this position already (didn't get to this point nearly as quick as a Loader). My team is awful, the team lead knows nothing, and we NEVER have the equipment or supplies we need to meet out SM's standards. I'm extremely frustrated and that's not even going into how I feel about the hours, feeling like I need to transfer for my own mental health.
Now my question comes in with how my pay would change if I were to transfer to a new position out of maintenance and to days. I took a minor pay cut leaving the DC (I still get paid more than a standard stockemy fellow maintenance team members), so if I were to transfer again, would I get cut to base on that shift or would I just get another small cut like before?

I (19afab) would not say I am the black sheep of my family as there are six kids and only one of the four who are old enough to have moved out still attend church. I’m one of two kids who are openly queer and are not cisgender. Growing up my siblings and I faced all sorts of subtle verbal abuse (including but not limited to body shaming and manipulation) from our mother (52f) but it often got more aggressive as we went through our teen years. My oldest sibling (30amab) has cut her off entirely for this reason. Now lots has happened but when asked this is the main reason I bring up speaking to her as little as possible (I often say “they”. My dad is mostly chill but has to enforce what mom says or she’ll bite his ear off): 1. A couple years back and then a year later I was cornered by my older brother (28m) who threatened physical violence if I ever turned out to be gay and trans (oops). When I reported both incidents to my parents they said there was nothing they could do because it would get worse if they told him to stop and it wasn’t like they were going to ban him from coming over because they wanted a connection with their grandsons. 2. We weren’t allowed to have phones or any sort of internet access unsupervised which led to a lot of sneaking. Before any parents come at me, yes I do understand they were trying to protect us but personally I believe that at least older teens should be allowed to have some sort of social media even if it is limited. A couple months after my 18th birthday I used some money I had been saving to buy myself a phone. I successfully hid it until I got careless one night and was discovered. They demanded I hand it over but refused because it was the only connection I had to the world and friends I had outside of work, church, and an approved circle of people (I and most of my siblings were homeschooled our entire lives). I was then banned from leaving the house besides those events until I gave it up (I had to get rides to work from coworkers and would often have to run and escape from the balcony stairs so they wouldn’t stop me). I was limited in what I could say, do, and wear (I never tried anything “immodest” but if I expressed myself in clothes I was being too flashy and sinful, too masculine, or if I dressed casually I was a slob). I was even grounded from online college classes I was being allowed to take if I did something wrong. I failed a psychology class because my parents saw what they were teaching was something they didn’t agree with and I could only study if mom was in the room and failed tests because I could only answer questions the way they wanted. If I had different opinions it was a sin because I wasn’t allowed to disagree with my parents. This lasted for several months. Why did I not just move? See next point. 3. I wasn’t allowed to move out and they verbally destroyed my confidence so that I wouldn’t. I was told I was too lazy to earn enough and that I should wait until my church mission or when I was married to move out but even then encouraged to stay if “wanted”. I believed this until a close friend (at the time 17F) I had met from a musical I was in helped me “run away” (please note, I had been a legal adult for a few months but even then my parents threatened to call the police on her for “kidnapping” and insisted I was legally still a minor until 21 in my state). I still have videos and nightmares of that day. Trying to pack while simultaneously shoving boxes in front of and forcing the door closed as my lock had been taken off and having to listen to my mom scream at me how much she loved me and for the devil inside of me to leave because he knew the great things I was supposed to do on my church mission. I didn’t really have a place to go so I lived at an incredible youth center that taught me what I needed to know for adulthood. 4. She ignored my sexuality. At first I thought I was great at hiding it since I realized when I was 16 but it’s recently become very apparent to me and other family members she’s either still in denial or outright ignoring it and has known for years. I was talking about my partner during Christmas as I’m openly queer but for some reason during the evening she mentioned how excited she was for the rest of us “girls” to introduce our husbands to her some day. So all those times she preached against and invalidated the lgbtq+ community she was being pointed and indirectly shaming me. She would always make sure none of my friends were gay and if they were I wasn’t allowed to hang out one on one with them. This really hurts because I wished I could have asked her for romantic advice and talk about my crushes or have introduced her to my secret girlfriend. 5. She claims all of this is my fault or it didn’t happen. I talked to my dad because he called me to ask why I didn’t wish her happy Mother’s Day and I realize they think I only moved because I was mad they wouldn’t let me have a phone.
I recently moved states to both avoid them and to start over with a dream job and work on who I want to be. There’s more but I’ve developed mental conditions that limit what I can remember and I’m already struggling mentally right now. I only remember this much because I accidentally found the videos I took while moving out and it unlocked a lot of this. I also went to visit my older sister (24f) and her husband who live in the same state and Christmas was mentioned. She got annoyed and said I was causing unnecessary problems when I informed her I would be staying at my friend’s house and would come and visit the house for a little bit. She said I was being like my oldest sibling and should take our dad’s advice of just dealing with it like everyone else so that I wouldn’t inconvenience everyone. (Not really relevant but she’s the only sibling who has stayed in the church). They are right when they say it sort of is annoying and inconvenient when a sibling is cold to parents at a gathering. And my little siblings have complained that when I ignore a text or turn down a very expensive gift mom is mopey and snappy for the rest of the day and then they’re often grounded from their activities and even school. They always provided for me physically and I could even be called privileged as my dad had a good job. There were only a couple minor incidents where she laid hands on us kids. She’s trying to connect to me now as an adult like she has tried my other older siblings but I can’t even be around her without panicking. She and dad are near my town tomorrow and asked if I wanted lunch but I lied and said I have work all day. My dad has been saying I should just humor her. I hope I don’t come across as a whiny brat. No matter what people say I know what happened to me and know it wasn’t right. But what I do need to know is if I'm TA for being inconvenient and causing drama with my mom that bothers the rest of my family and may someday cause more problems when I have a wife and kids.
Info: Afab means assigned female at birth and amab is assigned male at birth. We both don’t identify with the gender that was assigned at birth. The reason I’m not cutting her off entirely is because I’m close to my little siblings and she won’t let me talk to them like she did with my oldest sibling.

Latest added Battery as a Service (BaaS) Market research study by AMA Research offers detailed outlook and elaborates market review till 2028. The market Study is segmented by key regions that are accelerating the marketization. At present, the market players are strategizing and overcoming challenges of current scenario;
Some of the key players in the study are:
Epiroc (Sweden)
Clean Energy Global GmbH (Germany)
Global Technology Systems, Inc. (United States)
NIO (China)
Esmito Solutions Pvt Ltd (India)
Robert Bosch GmbH (Germany) etc.
The Battery-as-a-service version lets clients rent batteries as a separate thing from cars. Leasing the battery saves the in advance buy price of an electric automobile. This new provider offers battery swapping options that provide a method to cope with the shorter-variety troubles of an EV. Additionally, battery swapping is less time-ingesting and calls for minimal infrastructure in comparison to a charging station making this model nearly a viable alternative riding future adoption.
Influencing Trend: Stiff Competition in the Battery as a Service (BaaS) Market
Opportunities: Increasing Number of Electrical Vehicle in The Countries Creating Opportunities for Battery as a Service (BaaS) Market
Market Growth Drivers: Growing Demand for Electrical Mobility In The World
The Global Battery as a Service (BaaS) segments and Market Data Break Down by Application (Automotive and Transport, Commercial, Residential, Others), Electrical Vehicle (Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)), Battery (Lithium-Ion Batteries, Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries, Lead-Acid Batteries, Others), Offering (Battery swapping, Subscription-based, Others)
Presented By
AMA Research & Media LLP

SUMMERSUBLEASE AVAILABLE: MASTER BEDROOM & SMALL ROOM
Hello everyone! We are looking for people to sublease two rooms in our 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment at The Hills at Quail Run, 5059 Quail Run Rd, Riverside, CA 92507, this summer from June 19th to August 23rd. This is an excellent opportunity for those in need of short-term summer housing, particularly those enrolled in summer classes or doing internships in the area.
Details of the rooms for sublease: Master Bedroom: $1200/month - includes a private bathroom and spacious closet Small Room: $850/month
Apartment details: Prime location with excellent accessibility: - Campus: 4-minute drive, 10-minute bike ride, or 30-minute walk - Canyon Crest Town Center: 4-minute drive, 5-minute bike ride, or 20-minute walk Spacious 1,320 sq. ft. apartment Clean and fully furnished common areas
Please note, the third room will be occupied by one of us, so you'll have one friendly roommate! The rent does not include utilities. This is a great opportunity for anyone looking for a comfortable and convenient place just for the summer.
If you're interested or have any questions, feel free to send a private message or comment below. Don't forget to share this post with anyone who might be looking for summer housing.
(Note: Approval will be subject to landlord’s consent for subleasing.)

Nigga took AI Youngboy literally 🤣🤣🤣🤣

June 1, was a special day for my little guy, 2 years old! Of course the day meant more to me than it did to the birthday boy, after all, a 2 year old just wants to play. I took a few pics of him as he was sleeping just barely into the 12am hr of the 1st of June, as soon as his little eyes opened in the morning I was kissing on him and so excited for the special day. The dad never reached out one time asking about our child, he has had a cold for the past few days, but also he never even mentioned his Birthday. Didn't ask to see him, talk to him on video call, just nothing. Just a few days prior to this special day he acted like he was daddy of the year, spent just a few hours with him, riding in sxs and tractor the entire time, taking pics that looks like he is just the very best daddy. He had hardly played the real fatherly role nearly our sons entire life including not taking part in any part of the pregnancy willingly, went only to one appt and I had to beg him to go. It is just so sad to me how a man can play pretend just for the image of it all. I wish they could see how they negatively impact a child's life by being so MIA. I notice the more I do NC with my soon to be ex, the more he talks about our son and makes statements to me on how much he means to him, today really showed me. I just hope and pray that if we don't settle in mediation that the Judge will see through his act. It tears me apart thing about the dangers my little boy will be in if I'm not there. He is not looked over, the father doesn't see dangers, just the other day he walked off leaving our child to walk up a ladder alone, luckily I came in the house when I did, he was supposed to be spending time with him. It is so many irresponsible things he does to mention. He is perfect at playing like a child, but not taking care of our boy like an adult. Any cusidity court advice in this sort of situation? I live in TN.

It started when I was heading home from a camping trip with my roommate kayla and our friend Ben, we were enjoying the road trip but were all beginning to get bored as we got on the highway and the beautiful forest scenery faded into empty fields. We were in the middle of deciding where we should stop to get food when Kayla shouted at me to pull over and assuming she was carsick and needed to puke I immediately did without asking her why. When I got to the side of the road she almost immediately jumped out and ran behind the car then down the road. When she got back after a few minutes she was holding a small gray thing and excitedly climbed back in the car, Ben who was in the backseat leaned forward to see what she was holding and it took me a minute to realize what the gray thing was. To my surprise it was a tiny kitten who looked only a few weeks old “is it dead?” I instinctively asked even though it was obvious it wasn’t as it’s eyes were open and it was quietly mewing. The rest of the car ride consisted of Kayla telling me to drive faster because she wanted to get home to take it to the vet or something (I wasn’t exactly paying attention to what she was saying…) anyways a couple days after getting home despite my constant protesting Kayla and I now had a cat. She took her to the vet and she had so many diseases and worms i knew we couldn’t pay to fix but Kayla insisted and tortilla (don’t ask me why she chose to name it that) now was my problem. Though she payed for the vet bills I was tasked with buying tortilla things like food bowls and a bed and eventually she became my full responsibility with Kayla spending little to no time or money on her. Though I hated her at first I soon started loving tortilla and renamed her Smokey. At some point I left to go on another camping trip this time without Kayla and when I got back she told me smokey gotten out while I was gone and was still missing. I was devastated and did everything I could to try to find her but wasn’t able to and eventually gave up. A few weeks after that though I began to notice strange things happening like waking up in the middle of the night to distorted meowing coming from outside or occasionally seeing a small shadow behind me in the mirror, I talked to doctors and therapists but they all told me it was just hallucinations caused by the grief of losing Smokey which I believed until things started getting worse and I was no longer able to sleep due to every time I closed my eyes I would hear the sad distorted meowing again. I soon couldn’t stand it anymore at some point gave up on ignoring it like my doctors told me to do and got up in the middle of the night to go outside to find the source of the meowing. As I walked around the sides of my house the meowing grew more distorted but also more sad(?) I couldn’t explain it but I felt drawn to it and soon found myself standing in front of a plastic bag that was poorly hidden behind a couple of cardboard boxes, maybe it was because I was still half asleep or maybe it was because my doctors had put me on so many different kinds of medications that I wasn’t thinking right but something compelled me to open the bag and inside was something that part of me new I was going to find yet my heart still sank and I felt sick looking at it, a tiny decaying body. It took me a minute to fully register what I was seeing but when I did I nearly puked. I picked up the bag and ran inside barging into kaylas room and began screaming at her to wake up. When she did I thrust the bag into her and she nervously looked away which confirmed my suspicions that it was her who did it. I screamed at her asking why she would do it and the answer she gave was pathetic “I was just holding her and she clawed me…I didn’t mean to kick her so hard…” hearing this made me furious and I snatched the bag away from her but when I looked back in it the body was gone, I then turned to face her but she was gone to. I spent a lot of time looking for her and attempted to call her multiple times. That morning I called the police to report her missing and when they couldn’t find her I was of course questioned but was quickly let go. That night I ended up sleeping at my moms house partly because the apartment was still being searched for evidence and partly because I couldn’t stand to be there anymore. As I fell asleep I had a dream of Kayla screaming and crying saying she was sorry and that she didn’t mean it, she was heavily bleeding from gashes covering pretty much her entire body, she began to attempt to run but tripped and something I couldn’t see dragged her away. The next morning I saw on the news that both her and Smokey’s bodies had been found behind the dumpster near my apartment but the killer is apparently unknown the only kind of evidence they have are the large gashes covering her body and the blood on Smoky’s rotting paws.

Hey all. Finally getting into track racing after trying my hand at nearly all the other disciplines. Been riding with some hand built alloy clinchers I had built up years ago when I originally thought i was going to get into track but didn’t. I use latex tubes on the road so naturally am using that for my track bike. Curious if anybody has ridden tubolitos or similar at the track? I’ve ridden them on the road and really didn’t like how they felt, but I’m not too concerned about comfort at the track…more performance oriented. I would love to spend $2k on some deep carbon tubs, but don’t have that kind of money at the moment. Thanks in advance!

This closes my pathetic trilogy about the girl I like. It's 2 AM, one of those days where I'm sad because of her. So it's time to solve my inner conflict once and for all, without waiting till tomorrow.
If you haven't read my previous posts, basically I said that I like this girl and have built up feelings over time, but I never directly told her how I feel because I was scared she was dating someone else. And she was, in fact. One day I saw her crying in class and I could sense what it was about. In the afternoon, I asked if she was okay and she said she got rejected by someone, but I only replied that I was sorry. I didn't want to pry in a moment like that and I think I made the right choice.
I was feeling bad about the whole situation and was preparing to not continue my friendship with her. But an event changed my perspective and made me optimistic: During a school trip, I decided I would let her know I liked her, one way or another. So I showed genuine interest, I talked to her until late and I was always trying to be near her. So the third night she asked me about my relationships and I simply replied I wasn't, though immediately changing the subject because I'm stupid. But that even made me get hope and some days after the trip I asked her out on a bike ride and she accepted.
Everything was going smooth, but soon after I noticed her interest level going down again. She was constantly on her phone and I tried to pretend it didn't bother me, but it did. I'm socially awkward when it comes to dating, she's more outgoing and she has a wider circle of friends. I feared that while I was doing mental gymnastics, she had started seeing other people. Surely I've made progress, in the sense that I have almost removed that mask I talked about in my other post (in the sense that I don't pretend to talk about things I'm not genuinely interested in). But it seems I'm back at the starting point, it seems I never had the chance from the beginning and I built everything in my head.
This is what led me to write this post now: tonight at a social event I heard her talking about dating other people. This time she was explicitly saying it (I didn't want to be there when she did because I was too sad). I was too sad knowing that I "failed" a second time and my hopes are now very low.
Why do I keep dwelling on it and why don't I just tell her how I feel? I don't even know why: it may be because of school, because she's in our friend group, because I'm not used to expressing my emotions, but I think the main reason is that I tried all this time to let her know I like her and now it has become such a big deal. I just can't tell her. When we talk about those things in our group (even when she's not there), my heart starts beating faster and I cannot physically let myself say those words. Moreover, I'm not feeling confident at all because I'm losing a lot of time while someone else already knows how to do it.
Even if I could tell her I like her now I would still have to deal with the fact that she already likes someone else. And I'm absolutely not able to deal with a situation like that. I'm tired, from school, from this exhausting battle, that sees neither victory nor surrender. I feel like shit.
tl;dr: I like a girl but was too shy to confess my feelings. I started building a connection with her but then realized she is dating others. I'm struggling with whether to tell her how I feel or move on, due to fears of rejection and making our friendship awkward.