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"I should not let you enter," the old man said, gazing unhappily at Phoebe standing beside Penny in her dream.
"Please. You're mind controlling her, so I think you would have stopped me if you wanted to,"
Phoebe replied.
"Not control. Humans don't 'control' the air, they breathe it. In the same way, I feed on Penny's psychic energy."
"I see. And when you said you had infinite power, what exactly did you mean?"
"I do. But my power is dead," Death said. "That is how I am."
"And you can exist in the psychic realm, but not the regular mindscape?"
"Sometimes."
"What defines those times?"
"It depends. People dying, obviously. About a quarter of all deaths in the galaxy aren't Sprilnav."
"A quarter?"
"Yes."
"So I assume they're killing themselves."
"Yes."
"And that energy isn't a constant influx?"
"Somewhat. It comes in both a trickle and waves. But I know you're going to ask more. The answer is that the Progenitors give conceptual protection to the Sprilnav. The further away a Sprilnav is from them in space, time, and more, the weaker they are. That is why Elders can survive impacts that could vaporize metal, not just their implants and psychic energy."
"Conceptual weight seems to feature heavily in your power," Phoebe said.
"It does."
"And you are a concept. If you fought Fate, for example, would you win?"
"Depending on what you mean by winning. Really, concepts cannot overcome each other."
Phoebe smiled. That meant that Death would want a way to do that. Probably the hivemind was the way. With that answer, she continued.
"Concepts cannot overcome each other? So you don't have a fate, and Fate can't die?"
"Not really."
"Can you die?"
"No."
"Does Fate have a fate?"
"I don't know. But really, there's no way I'll tell you that even if I find out."
"How many people have died?" Phoebe asked.
"Define people, and define death."
"People as in sentient and sapient beings, which are capable of thought and planning. Death as in the ceasing of characteristics of life such as the termination of blood or gaseous material within the living being, as well as the ceasing of psychic energy and brain activity within the being, for those that have some equivalent to brains."
"It is not specific. Quintillions, at least. A lot more, really. There's many that don't quite fit the condition. If you count the moments before the great war, you'd need exponents."
"We have numbers for that."
"Okay. Sprilnav deaths alone, even with the conceptual madness of the... what do they call it? The Source war. Yes. It's quite a lot," Death said.
"Give me a number, please."
"Fine. 39 undecillion."
Phoebe was silent. There were so many Sprilnav that it was stupid. Even thinking about the level of that fall was truly insane. And she assumed that during the fall, they had a very bad time. It would have been madness and anarchy with the added characteristic that everyone also had nukes and shields.
"There's more than the observable universe, you know."
"How many died in the aftermath of the Source war?"
Death frowned. "1 in 30,000 Elders lived. 1 in 850,000 regular Sprilnav lived. Of those, 875 Sprilnav didn't end their lives."
"875 thousand? Million?"
"No."
Phoebe thought that was sad. Basically, in the whole galaxy, every Sprilnav had died, at least statistically. The number alive right now, even still outnumbering the galaxy, was a rounding error. If what he said was true, the Source had killed more people than any other being, alive or dead. And that assumed there weren't any other civilizations of a similar scale to them.
She also didn't bother to ask how the Sprilnav population was now so large. Whether it was inbreeding or cloning didn't matter much. But it helped to explain why so many Elders were so crazy all the time. She needed to stay on task, however.
"Alright. Back to you. You're not a psychopomp?"
"No. I do not interfere with souls. I am the concept of death."
"So, do you get energy from stars blowing up?"
"That is not dying."
"But people believe that supernovae are the deaths of stars."
"That does not shift the concept itself."
That was interesting. So Death wasn't a belief harvester, then. Not the type that actually was shaped by the belief of sapient beings in their actions. Concepts existed and were finite and infinite in scope. Maybe some were truly finite. They could conflict with each other, and their influence would generate a weakening effect, like destructive interference with alternate types of waves. But that did not mean that was always so. Perhaps they could do the opposite.
It was likely that Death worked with Fate at least sometimes and that if Entropy existed, it was most concerned with the Sprilnav. Conceptual protection by the Progenitors was another interesting concept that she hoped to probe if Nova ever returned. She did have the feeling he was either doing everything for fun or entirely serious. He was certainly not quite there in the head after the experience that Death had shared with her.
But for conceptual beings like him, there were rules and regulations, perhaps bound by whatever absolute concept they fit within. Whether they were hard rules or not was unknown. Defined in their structure, but not their limits. And perhaps that meant there was more to figure out here. "Interesting. And if you need to feed off psychic energy, why not use psychic amplifiers?"
"It's not the same quality. Humans don't drink pure water only; they drink it for the minerals and other healthy products within it. It's the same for me."
"But you can't die. Why would it matter?"
"I can diminish. It would affect things, though not as you expect."
"That is interesting also," Phoebe replied. "Are you suggesting that you could diminish, which means other concepts can as well?"
"Not directly," Death nodded with a smile. He stumbled, clutching his head. Phoebe felt a vast energy press down upon them and could feel something brush against her mind like a bullet just grazing the skin. In that one motion, she'd felt more inherent danger than all previous enemies combined, so much danger that it bypassed her artificial instincts entirely to lay thickly on her tongue as an acrid taste.
She didn't fall to the ground, and neither did Penny. They stood there, searching for the source of the pressure.
"What is this?" she asked.
"Luck..."
"Luck is a concept that watches over others?"
A swirling vortex opened up around Phoebe, parallel to the ground. Light and other equivalents shone out of it, dancing around its interior, piercing the layers of dark black fog. The mindscape trembled slightly, and the ground underneath Penny and Phoebe cracked. A small voice whispered out of it, though it was easily audible.
"No more."
"Look, if you're really Luck, then-"
"No more," the voice repeated. "You are done here. Do not come back."
Phoebe snorted. "If you think this little mysterious act is going to intimidate me, you're wrong. And I will."
"Not today."
"You don't get to decide-"
"I decide all."
Phoebe's head seemed to split with pain, and she found herself lying dizzily next to Penny. The human's chest was heaving, and sweat laced her eyebrows and cheeks.
"That went well," Phoebe coughed. The headache receded far too slowly. But she'd still learned a lot. Conceptual beings had concerns, for one. They likely cared about getting stronger in some cases. Humanity had some sort of outside context power, but more than that, the hivemind itself could actually use it.
"It did. Thanks, and sorry you couldn't get more."
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"Hello, Rank 10 Ambassador Liinara. To what do we owe the pleasure?" Ambassador Varirlar asked, letting a small smile curve around her snout. Putting the other party at ease would make this conversation easier, especially since she suspected this call wasn't just a concerned friend.
"You might want to sit down for this," her counterpart said. "Remember Exii'darii?"
Varirlar froze.
"Don't tell me you let her free."
"We didn't. The Sprilnav broke her out."
"Elders?"
"Not that we saw. But it is likely they are working for one," Liinara said, her antennae twitching. Varirlar knew there was a pheromone effect that went on with the Vinarii, which still couldn't be fully translated into description by words.
"Alright. You know how serious this is, I assume?"
"Yes."
"Many factions in the Alliance, especially the more recently joined ones, will not be happy."
"We understand."
"I can speak on behalf of the Alliance in asking a request for an official apology. Furthermore," Varirlar said, holding up a single claw, "I want your government to share the full containment procedure down to the alloy composition of the materials. Assuming you actually kept her in a prison cell for over a decade, that meant you had a way to keep her from escaping. Tell us how."
"You wish to recapture her?"
"We are not as naive as we once were," Varirlar said. "The Hateful Galaxy has taught the rest of the Alliance the same hard lessons it taught me. The Breyyanik did not forget its nature when we settled Ceres."
"Ah, so you wish to either use her or kill her."
"There is no use for her," Varirlar said. "Unless our scientists can propose a solution, there will be no use for her. She will be put down like the dog she is." "Then we are in agreement."
"Yes. The Alliance and the Vinarii's relationship has been tense for a while. We haven't spoken with Calanii or Ashnav'viinir in several years now. Why have you decided to diverge from us? Do we no longer suit your interests?"
"Not exactly. Even besides the... tumultuous events of Humanity's first contact, there are other powers at play. And there is evidence, in some cases, of Sprilnav interference." Liinara tapped her skull three times, the Vinarii way of saying that someone was a few branches short of a tree.
"Interference. Are there ways to prevent it?"
"Not officially. If you wish to discuss terms, I can set you up with one of our intelligence agencies. They will not be willing to share national secrets for nothing, however."
"I think this... debacle should count enough as recompense, don't you?" Varirlar smiled.
"Perhaps. But I am not who must be convinced. With that said, I wish you luck, Ambassador. I am glad that your Alliance has moved to take a more realistic path. And Ashnad'darii is still imprisoned, I presume?"
"Under much heavier guard once this call ends. But yes, she is still in a cell. Yes, she has implants. But she is leverage."
"Her usefulness is little," Liinara warned. "Calanii won't care at all about her."
"Everyone keeps saying that. But let's just say there are reasons she isn't dead."
"You should kill her."
"We should. We maybe could. Assuming that the official way is still trying to get an implant under her chitin to kill her instead of just launching her into the sun. Granted, that would kill her eventually."
"She is dangerous. Unable to be trusted."
"She was broken years ago," Varirlar said. "From what I've heard, she wears human-made clothes now instead of going naked. Plus, she has given us insights on Vinarii society, particularly involving its hierarchy."
"You're using her as a spy."
"A spy that hasn't seen a Vinarii face in almost twenty years? Pretty crappy at that job, I'd say. We both know that she killed hundreds of thousands personally, and was willing to kill many more. If she did not have her uses, she would have already been killed. Plus, there's a safety procedure in place."
"If you mean a bomb collar, good luck with that."
Varirlar didn't mean a collar. Psychic energy monitors were closely tied to a pair of fusion bombs that were embedded in her prison's walls. Should she get too far from the natural cell, they would explode. After all, the room had a bed, bathroom, sanitized entertainment, and a food and water delivery system. She was definitely mostly rehabilitated, but her crimes would follow her for the rest of her life. Their severity made her a case that would likely never fully rejoin any society unless it was an afterlife.
"Well. This has been productive," Varirlar replied with a smile. "But unfortunately,"
"Wait. I'm here to tell you something else, as well. The Dual Systems Trading Company wants to send more ships to your Sol system."
"How many more?"
"Umm, around 400."
"Why don't you have an exact number?"
"The negotiations are still underway. But they seek to bring Vinarii products to the internal Alliance markets, particularly the small Vinarii and larger Wisselen exclaves living within."
"They wouldn't be able to get you much money, unless it's in various Alliance cash forms. There's an angle, isn't there?"
"Well, yes. We don't know it yet. But it is suspicious."
Varirlar sighed. "Have you given them special brain scans?"
"What do you... oh. You suspect that?"
"Suspicious and spontaneous changes in their policy toward the Alliance, as we are suffering from issues with Sprilnav messing with people, and wanting to send us ships? I'm not stupid, Ambassador Liinara."
"I did not mean to insinuate-"
"Sure you didn't. Now, I shall tell you something very interesting. Are you ready?"
"Yes."
"Very well," Varirlar said dramatically, adjusting her mane as she leaned forward. "The hivemind would be willing to meet with your... incapacitated members for study from afar."
"What do you mean?"
"Intelligence."
"We cannot trust it."
"I see. You are aware that you have just called all of Humanity untrustworthy, right? That's quite the insult, unprovoked."
"Apologies, Ambassador, that is not what I meant. The hivemind is likely to have its own motivations, and could be motivated to lie about what it saw."
"As could your own operatives, who could be pinned to the floor by any regular Sprilnav and chipped within a minute. Don't act like they don't have legendary hacking abilities as well. None of your systems are safe."
"And the Alliance's are?"
"With both Edu'frec and Phoebe watching over them, then yes."
"Ah, so you still think that the Sprilnav don't use AI."
"Why would they? It would threaten their own sense of superiority. If they already used AI, everyone would have a chip when they were born. There would be no resistance, because eventually a logical mind would not tolerate the constant pushback."
"You are free to believe what you do. However, my thoughts do diverge. As for Phoebe, she did a disappearing act for a while, didn't she?"
"And?"
"She isn't exactly reliable either," Liinara replied.
"If you're drowning in the ocean, would you rather have an island that storms a little or nothing at all?" "I fail to see how her situation compares to that analogy. It was a very serious problem, if I understand it."
"And what do you suggest, then? Constantly bring her down over it until she resents us and shoves her hands through our hearts? Phoebe's a person, Ambassador. An Alliance citizen, a Luna citizen, and even more importantly than that, a friend. It's quite hurtful that you are suggesting such, unless it is the official stance of the Vinarii government. I assure you, the mess with your company trying to invade us is not resolved, either. Words cannot heal what actions injured. If you want reconciliation, it would be best to take the first steps yourself. Do not tell the Alliance to alienate Phoebe just because she made a mistake."
"Your own intelligence agencies would do the same in many cases."
"I fail to see how her situation compares to that analogy," Varirlar sighed. "Phoebe is the single most useful asset that the Alliance has come across that is not a purely psychic entity such as the hivemind or Gaia, or some paragon of a species like Dilandekar or Penny."
"So she's an asset, and not a person?"
"Please, Liinara. In the world we live in, the galaxy we live in, everyone is both. Do not lie to yourself. However, the Alliance wishes to show its people a shred of respect so it does not drag them through the mud when they made a mistake. Even before that, rehabilitation was the goal of Humanity. Why else do you think that we have prisons instead of just a wall where the bad people stand in front of to be shot? If a starving mother stole something, that doesn't mean we chop off her hands. We get her the help she and her child needs, so they can rejoin Alliance society and raise us all higher."
"Your Alliance has not fixed poverty like it said, then."
"Kind of difficult when one of your species is at a near constant feudal civil war, and another had a third of its populace halfway through insurrection. I assume that the Vinarii Empire has no such problems, correct? And again, I remind you that you are supposed to represent its official position, not your own."
Varirlar suspected that the Ambassador here had something else going on, as well. Whether it was mind control, being paid to screw this up, or something else entirely, this wasn't how such a conversation was meant to go. She only was continuing it to see if Liinara slipped up on something interesting.
"My position is as a Rank 10 Ambassador. You would do well to respect that."
"Respecting positions instead of people does not make sense when the position is respectable and the people are not. You have insulted Phoebe, Humanity, and the Alliance with your words. Were I to relay them, you might see a more hostile stance to the Vinarii Empire. Remember that you have agreements with us."
"Yes. Times have changed."
"I am sure that the Hive Emperor would not exactly like to hear what you have said. But do not worry, Ambassador. We will learn the truth of your words soon enough, one way or another. That is all for now. Perhaps I will ask for a Rank 11 Ambassador next time, to save myself the insults."
She ended the call and sighed. Varirlar could spin the wheel of chance, but the two answers were likely either mind control or someone being paid off to harm relations between them. Given Liinara's expressions, she didn't assume it was translation errors to blame. And this call was on a secure line, even more so than most.
Really, the Vinarii could be doing it. But she smelled something was up. There was likely a very rich Vinarii who the Sprilnav had either made to work with them or forced to, using mind control. Perhaps it really was the answer to both. But she knew not to just assume that. When you had a hammer, everything looked like a nail. It was an apt human saying for the situation.
Varirlar contacted several officials after she wrote her report with the attached recording of the situation. She'd done her best to appear calm, though responding to Liinara was not the orthodox method. But this way, she'd drawn out a lot more on how she viewed the Alliance, giving them a window into whatever was happening, blurry and small though it may have been.
She didn't really think that Calanii would have condoned this. Indeed, she might have just had her last diplomatic call ever. Assuming, of course, that the Sprilnav hadn't managed to chip him, too. If they had, though, the Alliance's situation would get bad fast. Luckily they were already at war with Aphid. Everything was already mobilized, and extra listening satellites in deep space had been set up. The last time the Vinarii Royal Navy had come to visit Humanity, they had not been ready. Perhaps now they were.
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Phoebe stood on the surface of Mercury, just underneath the great mass of the Mercury-class gun that had been built there. The first one that is. Now there were two great behemoths above her head, rising hundreds of meters into the sky. Not that Mercury really had a sky. Maybe someday, that would change.
For now, though, what mattered was the task at hand. The guns were already checked and cleared for firing. A small misalignment had destroyed a Charon-class gun in the past, so they were taking no chances with this. Now, the massive laser would serve its purpose. And, of course, the results would be live streamed.
The planet itself was a world almost covered in machinery. The atmosphere was toxic, filled with aerosols and gaseous industrial waste. There were no detectable life signs on it, whether they were communications, psychic emissions, or even just patches of warmth away from machinery. No subterranean life either, of any kind. Not even microbes had been spared from Aphid's apparent purge, if they had ever existed on this rock at all.
And Aphid's signature station designs orbited it also, whipping around its poisoned atmosphere at several miles a second. That was a sign that everyone on the planet, if there had ever been any, was dead.
A stream of ships poured in and out, guarded by a vast military fleet. In the Sol system, the amplifiers were powering up, and Brey was starting to form the outside of the portals she'd use for the guns, one on each side of the planet, at the equator. Her analysis had determined the areas in which opposite strikes would do the most damage. Phoebe had ensured to check for subterranean activity using Gaia's matter senses.
That had revealed large underground development areas, where presumably more of Aphid's mechanical drones were going to be made. Brey finished forming the portal as Phoebe took a last look at the spires of Aphid's world, ready to see how they'd do when the lasers hit.
She moved the stealth ships around the planet, continuing to watch the shield. It wasn't at full power, likely because Aphid wasn't expecting an attack. She didn't have a presence here in the mindscape, either. She was using far dumber programs as proxies across the Q-comms connections so that he could not detect a hint of anything wrong.
Combined with the Alliance's stealth technology, it would allow for a total surprise attack. Brey finished building up the portals in front of the guns, and Phoebe couldn't help but notice how deep the portals looked. They didn't seem like a flat plane like usual but had a sort of three-dimensionality to them this time. Interesting.
"Fire!" Phoebe ordered. Brey's avatar, which was standing beside an android back on Earth, grinned.
The barrels of the guns glowed cherry red, and vibrations radiated out from their heavily reinforced bases. Even with the android's solar shades, the light was still incredibly bright. Just from underneath it, the temperature was reaching almost 300 degrees. Just as she'd calculated.
On the other side of the portal, things got interesting. Brey's portal was invisible, but the energy coming from it was anything but. It almost looked like Aphid's planet was being impaled through a pole of pure white light. That light slammed down onto the planet's surface in three seconds, passing through the atmosphere as if it wasn't even there. Gaia stood beside the portals in the Sol system, blueshifting the light as much as possible. Instead of visible light, most of the weapon's energy, at least on the other side, was gamma. It was enough radiation to kill anything on the planet, for sure. Or to fry any electronic systems, such as a resident AI's servers.
The pure power of the two guns released a constant molten shockwave of a mix of vaporized rock, metal, and most other materials rushing outward. Buildings were snapped like twigs, their ends going flying but never landing. The heat melted others, and earthquakes in some areas that hadn't yet been struck by the spreading destruction were rampant.
The planet didn't explode or anything. The military ships that were far enough away to remain working just moved away, activating shields that fizzled out due to the intense energy beyond them. That energy would have destroyed Phoebe's android had Brey not used the portal to shield them as well. And as for her observation ships, their stealth coatings were quickly fried.
But the reinforced hulls were made specifically to withstand the effects of this for as long as possible. Cities of metal, all empty except for countless billions of drones wandering their streets, were wiped away. And then the portals began moving, shining around the equator. The effects spread and repeated, with the seas of methane catching fire before they, too, were vaporized in the path of the Mercury-class guns.
The atmosphere was boiled and stripped off the planet within hours. Most of the factories and foundries in the city were turned to either molten slag, collapsed by giant earthquakes, or vanished entirely. The devastation in the equatorial region was total. There was nothing left in a solid band 1500 miles wide around the equator of the planet, save for the broken bases of destroyed skyscrapers.
Further out, the damage was from earthquakes, snapped power lines, and broken pipes, as well as rubble that had fallen onto transport roads and collapsed tunnels. Alone, perhaps the problems could have been dealt with. But not together.
"Just to be sure," Brey asked. "You don't need the remains, right?"
"No. I will make what I need, that way I know it is safe," Phoebe replied, looking at Brey's avatar. It had the signature black fur of her empowered form, with red eyes and sharpened claws. The armor looked cool, as well.
"Alright. I'm going to go dump a few billion tons of plasma on it, then."
Phoebe smiled. "Alright. Have fun."
"I did. Good job on the guns. Get enough of those, and it'll be like the full Dyson swarm's hitting you in a straight line."
"That's the plan. The test was more than successful, and Aphid got a taste of the justice we deserve."

I’ve been a vegetarian for nearly 20 years. I started when I was a tween. I have no idea how to cook meat.
My elderly cat has IBD/lymphoma. I’d say she’s basically in hospice. She’s never been a big fan of wet food. However, recently my brother brought some chicken wings to my house. My cat did something I’ve never seen; she got on the kitchen table, got a wing out from the container, threw it on the floor, and absolutely demolished it. (I saw her on the table but did not think she’d ever be able to get to the wings, I found the evidence in the morning. No bones were consumed.)
I’ve decided to start boiling chicken breasts for her. I’ve read to boil it for 12-15 minutes, but it honestly feels too long for the small amount of small pieces I’m cooking. The first time I tried 14 minutes and it was rubbery. I tried 10 minutes for about 12 oz of chicken breast strips and it seems pretty okay.
I’m actually a pretty good cook otherwise! I am very much a visual cook. I’d appreciate any tips you have to determine when it’s cooked through but not overdone. I know it shouldn’t be pink inside, but what can I do to assess while it’s still in the pot? For example, when pasta is cooked it is bendy, but when it’s overdone it is limp. Or a potato is cooked through when a fork goes through easily.
Also, any storage/reheat advice would be great! My mom told me to add some of the pot water to the container to keep it from drying out. I’m a person who goes to the grocery store frequently, so I’d rather buy small amounts to cook and store in the fridge, instead of cooking in bulk and storing in the freezer. Thank you!

I’m in Vegas for a week altogether for the Stanley Cup final. I’ve never been to Vegas. I don’t drink and I don’t gamble, uh oh, haha. But I am staying near T Mobile arena and love Indian, Middle Eastern, and Asian food. In general, love checking out the local food scene.
Would love your recommendations on what dishes I have to try, what restaurants I need to check out, and any other suggestions.
Thanks. 💪🙏

I'm currently contemplating cutting my parents off for a bit and I'm struggling with the guilt I'm feeling around doing it.
Gonna give background bc reddit is anonymous so buckle up:
I was sexually abused by my older sibling from the ages of 10-12. It stopped because at 12 I told my mum, not really understanding what was happening, but knowing it shouldn't be.
My parents gave me a choice then about what I wanted to do: go to the police or have us both go to therapy and move on. I honestly didn't understand why they were both so upset at the time and I didn't want anyone to get in trouble so I said the therapy option. We both had 2 sessions and it wasn't mentioned again for several years.
I never processed what happened to me as a child or how I felt in that, I managed to push down the memories with self harming and pinching myself, to the point I don't have a clear recollection of those 2 years of my life anymore. I refused to acknowledge it to my friends and it was never mentioned within the family until I was 16.
The only reason I mentioned it at 16 was because I had a meltdown after hearing my brother playing his guitar really loudly, by that point I had developed musical "hallucinations" of faint guitar playing even when he wasn't there which I now understand to be flashbacks. I went in and told him to turn it down as I was becoming increasingly agitated (I also have autism & ADHD) he laughed at me and told me to fuck off. Usually this happens and I'd just leave, but for some reason in that moment I flipped out and started screaming that he ruined my life and he just laughed and I lost it, I tried to strangle him with his guitar whilst screaming that I hate him until my dad came in and physically dragged me off him, taking me outside. I was inconsolable and asked my parents to kick him out, they obviously said no, so I left to go stay with friends. This was the first time we acknowledged this in 4 years.
Once I had let this out I confided in my CAMHS (child mental health) worker about the trauma, the musical hallucinations, the self harm and the fact I wanted to not live. She got me in touch with social and then youth services to help me find somewhere else to live.
My parents were annoyed by this decision of me to leave, but refused to have my brother to move out, so I was placed into a homeless hostel for my own protection and peace of mind. They maintain to this day that I was never kicked out and chose to leave off my own accord.
I stayed there for about 4 months, it was a horrible dangerous place for a 16 year old quiet nerdy kid, I quickly grew hostile and developed a drug problem for a while. Then my brother moved out so I returned home to live with my parents.
Around this time my mother's alcoholism, pill dependencies and mental health issues also really began to intensify, but I did end up staying there for just shy of 2 years. I was no longer the sweet top of class nerdy kid and was now a college dropout, with severe depression. My mum would routinely scream abuse at me whilst blackout drunk also. Still I was determined to fix things so at 18 I re-enrolled in college to finally get my A Levels despite my dad's anger about this (he wanted me to work and pay rent) and I stopped using the drugs I was on. Life was starting to slowly get back on track.
Until about 2 months later, a week or so after I turned 19 when my parents informed me my brother had fucked up his life again and was moving home in 4 days.
I pled and protested with my parents that 4 days does not give me time to find somewhere else to live, they got angry at me for dredging up the past and being unfair on them and my sibling. My sibling also sent me abusive messages calling me names because I was making them feel bad.
So with no other real choice I found myself homeless and sofa surfing, sleeping with guys for places to stay etc, until I made it up the waitlist for the local YMCA hostel. My mates that I stayed with for most of it lived over 20 miles away so I was unable to get to college and flunked my A levels. I was kicked out of college shortly after I moved into the YMCA.
My family eventually "forgave" me for my behaviour and got back on speaking terms. All the while I'm living in hostels & unsafe situations. The next 5 or so years are a traumatic mess to be honest, I ended up an alchoholic with multiple suicide attempts, so much trauma, an eating disorder, further traumas and assaults by the unsafe people I lived with and an apathetic attitude towards living. My mother also was a big drain on me over that time, exhibited narcissistic behaviours, triggered me with food and on one holiday scratched herself up and tried to convince me I did it while she was drunk, I actually did cut her off for 3 months after this till we both got sober, but reconnected with her due to pressure from my dad.
Eventually in 2021 when I was 25, after a pretty serious suicide attempt and psychiatric admission I realised I was an alcoholic and joined AA and there I started to get well, for the first time in my life.
AA really saved me from myself and helped me get my life back on track, at this point I had my own place and a decent job and started trying to make something of myself and be a better person, which has been working well, but the one thing I never addressed in any of that was the trauma.
I still had to see my brother throughout the years due to parental pressure and as such had sort of siphoned off my trauma and had a disconnect to it and I thought that was working.
Unfortunately earlier this year I spiralled into a major depressive episode, I remained sober, but even the best of programs couldn't hold the suicidal ideation at bay. I ended up in a psych ward this time for 5 weeks. It was terrifying to be in a place where my life was on track, yet I still felt so disgusting and hopeless I didn't want to live. Although I still wasn't fully ready to admit that my trauma is what brought me that point. Despite daily flashbacks, self harming behaviours and nightmares of the abuse where I was at fault. I had it so compartmentalised and was keen to look for any other cause other than that.
My dad came to visit me after I'd been there about 2 weeks and informed me that my brother isn't doing well and I need to make more of an effort to see him. For the first time in my life I attempted to put a boundary in place and said that actually I don't think I should be seeing him ever again. Dad asked me "Is this because of the stuff that happened when you were kids?" And I responded "Do you mean the reason I keep ending up in places like this, no matter what I do?" And that was the first time I ever verbally acknowledged that this trauma was at the route of everything.
We spoke at length for several hours, my dad explaining that they always chose him because I'm capable while my sibling is a fuck up. I said I'm not coping. I'm literally in a psych ward? He said that he put me on a life raft while he helped my sibling and I said you didn't put me on a life raft, I went to a fucking YMCA. After that he heard me for the first time and semi acknowledged that they'd made some wrong moves and said he'd speak to mum about what to do moving forward so I don't have to see my brother again and can finally unpack this immense trauma in therapy.
That conversation opened the flood gates while I was in hospital and I was diagnosed by my psychiatrist with Complex-PTSD and assigned a trauma therapist. I was absolutely broken having finally admitted the guilt and shame I've felt my whole life, but at the same time felt some hope, that I can finally move on.
Until a week or so later when I spoke to my mum and mentioned the conversation with my dad, she said he had never spoken to her. She seemed uncomfortable and bored when I spoke about uow it has affected me and asked how it would make my sibling feel if I stopped seeing him. When I relayed it explaining how dad finally started to acknowledge how difficult it has been when they chose my brother over me, she stopped me and angrily/defensively stated "I have to stop you there. I person have NEVER chosen anyone over anyone." At this point I shut down. I ended the call and fell into a deeper depression hole that the nurses took weeks to pull me out of.
A few days before my release I saw my dad and I brought up the situation asking what's happening with it and he and mum had any conclusions around me not having to see sibling and he snapped and dismissively said "What do you expect me to do about it? I think the best thing is if you just move on and not dwell on stuff." Again I shut down and once again the batton was passed back to me to hold.
See that's what I've been doing my entire life. Carrying it so my family don't get upset, excusing my parents, excusing my sibling, justifying them. I've carried this burden, the blame, the self hatred and it's nearly killed me so many times. I just don't want to do it anymore. To carry it for them.
I got out 3 weeks ago and have slowly been returning to life, my parents barely contacted me for a week after I got out and I was supposed to be putting inplace boundaries, but felt too bad/missed them too much. They haven't asked how I am or how I'm feeling, because they don't want my answer. My mum ended up booking this weekend away just the two of us, but I ended up feeling this overwhelming sense that I shouldn't be going away with her, especially whilst I'm barely well again and I said I'm not ready for an overnight. Naturally I've got the usual silent treatment from her. I just feel so guilty, but again it's brought up all of this.
It's like my gut is screaming at me CUT THEM OFF, but I'm scared and I love them, even if they are toxic. I'm hesitant to unpick in therapy and scared I'm just going to go back to denial. Every person I've spoken to has suggested I cut them off for at least a few months, just while I focus on therapy and finally processing the trauma. I'm just so scared to do this. I want my parents around and I want them to love me, but they just can't do that in the way I need and I'm really scared of hurting them.
At the same time I know I NEED to put myself first and work through this, I think I need to let go with love, just for a bit.
Sorry this ended up being miles longer than expected, if anyone's read to the end of this misery, do you have any advice or words of encouragement, or alternatively if I'm being unreasonable please let me know. I just want to get this right, because right now I'm just sick of hurting.

With Persistence being what it is, and the new FPS weapon insurance (feature? exploit?) it's more viable than ever to spend the time and money to load up a ship with everything you and your crew needs to tackle all the different gameplay loops in the verse.
You can fill weapon racks, leave food and drinks in fridges or on tables, and if you have a bigger ship you can keep your snubs and ground vehicles loaded up too.
But if you want to share armor with your crew they either need to use the shared storage which is usually in an inconvenient location or you have to leave the boxes on the floor for them to pick up.
So please, can we have those armor stands made functional? I know you have the mannequins at shops with all the armor and undersuits they wear purchasable with a direct click on them, can that same tech not be reproduced for use on ships? An invisible mannequin inside the armor stand maybe?
I want to load up my 890 and Carrack with different suits of armor for my org mates to slip into when needed, and (more eccentrically) I want to put different levels of armor in different sections depending on what is most likely to be needed for someone exiting through whatever route they're taking. So on the 890 going into the vehicle bay I would want armor racks that have heavy armor on them for ground troops to put on before leaving, whereas on the way to the hangar I want them to have flight suits with light armor, and then some EVA suits like the Zeus lined up in the airlock hallways.
And yes, I want to use different armor colors to denote different roles or ranks, so people know who to follow and what each person is responsible for at a glance. Let my Ursa driver wear red defiant armor, the Co-Driver wear yellow defiant armor, and the guys in back wear black defiant armor. Or for EVA stuff like moving cargo onto the ship from a wreck have guys in Yellow Aril suits doing the loading while people in the Blue Aril suits are responsible for stripping the hull off the wreckage. For combat have them all don basic flight suits with basic helmets and light armor so if they die they aren't losing much but if they manage to eject they have a better chance of surviving with some additional hardpoints for equipment like a medpen AND multitool.

Feeling homesick lately.. After my parents died i’ve barely come back, only a handful of times.. But lately I feel like I should make up for all the time i’ve missed back there..
For some background, i’m 32. I grew up near Palmyra. I moved to California when I was 22. Lived there for 5 years and then moved to Mexico for 2 years. After Mexico I moved to Brazil and have been here the past 2.5 years..
I’m just trying to weigh my options.. Living in big cities for the past decade.. Something has changed in me recently. Maybe I’m ready for a quiet, settled down life.. I miss the food.. the autumns.. I don’t miss the snow 😅, But I think it’s a small price to pay.. Miss my friends.. Miss Eastview and driving on the back country roads..
Just worried about the logistics, like where i’d live.. If i’d rent or lease a car.. If people are nicer there or still kind of rude. Idk, this is just a rant, but maybe someone who’s bored would find this funny or entertaining.

I've been fighting over whether I present more qualities of the eight or the one over the past while. Figured I'd fill out this questionnaire I saw circulating over the past few weeks for a post like this. You don't have to read through all of this since I already know that it's absurdly long.
• What’s your biggest fear?
Loss of autonomy is probably the single biggest thing. I value my freedom and independence immensely. The ability to live my life as I choose to and make my own mistakes, no matter how good or bad things turn out, is critical to me.
• What’s your biggest desire?
Ideally, in thirty years, I'll be in a secure enough position where working is a choice for me. I'd love to become financially independent through the combination of a high-paying career and long-term investments over the next several decades. To a point where I could simply retire whenever I choose to, and be free to live in any way that I desire.
• What are you ‘’the best’’ at?
"Organization" is the word that comes to mind. A good example being a particularly bad day at work a few weeks back where the owners were out of town, the assistant manager was on vacation, and the only other top level person had to leave due to a doctor's appointment. It was one of the busiest days of the year, and we knew it, and circumstances made it even more chaotic than it would've already been with the massive workload we had ahead of us.
Taking the initiative, I pulled people from several different departments - including both other managers who had many more years of experience and people I'd never spoken to before, and got them all assigned to positions to handle elements of the work without fear or apprehension. Turning what would've been a disastrous eight hours of work into less than four. When corresponding with the only person directly connected to the owners after we were done, I explained what I'd done and how I'd organized everyone, and they asked "You're not done already are you?", and then proceeded to look over all the completed work and just said "Holy shit." when they realized how quickly I'd managed to get everyone to finish the workload and get it done well.
For reference, with the cognitive functions, I'm not sure if I have high levels of Te or Se. On the one hand I like work to be organized and efficient, and have been told I have an authoritative presence, but I'm also exceptionally adaptable to changing circumstances and also get a genuine thrill and adrenaline rush from taking control and having others follow my lead.
• How do you see yourself right now?
Getting my first steps out into my career field. Enjoying my life at the moment. Well on my way to my long-term goals at this point, just need to stay the course since I've historically had issues focusing on any particular interest for long periods of time in favor of whatever is exciting or otherwise interesting to me at any given time.
• How do you see yourself 5 years from now?
Making over a 100k, getting started at a large company after making a leap up in the next few years. I have no doubts about my ability to do this, no matter what it takes. I'll note that a particular quote I've become fond of in recent years is the following:
"Whether you believe that you can, or that you can't, you are right."
• How do you express yourself?
I'd say this is done in two ways, mainly through visual means. The first is with my style. I've always been conscious of the clothing I wear and the like. I believe that I look good from a physical standpoint, to the point of sometimes looking in the mirror and feeling - "Damn, I look good today." - but I will make sure that my skin is clear and that my hair co-operates with me. I like to look composed and professional at work because it feels good to me, where my appearance reflects what I feel on the inside.
The other is through writing. I've been told I have a 'visceral' style, and I do get some relief from expressing a lot of my feelings into writing (especially anger), whether it's shared with others or kept to myself. I also would love to pick up a martial art as an avenue to vent my anger in a healthy way, and also to test myself since I used to love fighting with my friends for fun to see who was the strongest. (Other things that help me when I need to decompress are cooking/eating, exercise itself, and sex).
• How do you feel about those near you (family, friends)?
I don't, generally. While I care for others, I'm consciously egocentric. I pretty much never think about anyone else if we're not in the same room together, no matter how close they might be, when considering my future or even my actions in the present. They aren't in my thoughts at all. I'm consciously egocentric, and honestly I'm kind of proud to be so.
A good example here is that, when I went to college, I pretty much never contacted or called my family and didn't care to. Not that I was ungrateful for their support, but I had no interest in maintaining any sort of relationship with them. No bad feelings, just an absence of interest or feeling of obligation to them.
• How do you feel about strangers?
Again, I don't really think about anyone other than myself 99% of the time and refuse to have it any other way. However, this doesn't mean I'm rude to others. I'm always polite with most people and honestly surprised myself at how well I handle customer service issues because of how uninterested I am in most people.
Capping off my thoughts about other people - I never plan on having children, or even a long-term romantic partner. The most I'd ever want is a few friends with benefits. Otherwise I'm generally happier when I'm alone. I find the concept of loyalty, of having an obligation to anyone other than one's self, to be funny.
Worth noting that a trigger for my anger is when other people are hurt by the actions of others. When people - whether through stupidity, willful ignorance, or uncompromising idealism - cause harm to others for no good reason. The expected consequences of acting out on that anger, namely losing my job and/or going to prison, are the only things that stop me. In that regard, I believe that people are free to pursue their own lives and their own individual ideas of happiness in whatever way they see fit, so long as they do not cause harm to others.
• How do you view change/uncertainty?
Depends upon the circumstances. On an average day, I might be irritated by an unexpected change - expressing it in some way usually, but quickly adapting and deciding what to do about it.
If I'm on my own time, chances are if someone tells me to do something and I don't want to, I'll say - "I don't think I will" or "No, I'd rather not."- I also might snap at people with a "What?" that tells them immediately that I'm not happy about the interruption.
At work, I'll process the situation, make sure everyone is on the same page, and get to work. If I'm actually angry about it, I'll hold it in until I get to my vehicle in the parking lot and yell about it to myself to let out that frustration.
In the case of the latter - I actually find most challenges or unexpected hurdles funny. With that work example from a few weeks back mentioned above, while everyone else was irritated or talking about how bad it was going to be, I found the whole situation hilarious and laughed about it before getting everyone into their proper places and moving forward.
I'll also note the fact that I frequently flip between new interests. I can become deeply engrossed in something new for a day to a week or so before moving onto something else once the feeling dies down. Even in my day-to-day life, you can see this with me leaping from focus to focus, task to task, completely forgetting about what I was just doing to focus on whatever is in front of me (or on my mind) at the moment. In other words, I'm essentially driven to pursue whatever I find interesting, exciting, and/or engaging to me on any given day. One of the few optimistic things I have to say about life is that I'm always looking forward to all the new things that the future will bring, and I'll always have plenty of other things to return to to keep me occupied during down periods where nothing new is grabbing my attention.
• How do you make decisions?
In my day-to-day life, I'm mostly motivated by my mood, energy, and interests for the day. While I possess long-term goals, I tend to need to remind myself of them when making decisions (e.g. I try to save about 1k a month and need to remind myself not to spend too much on things like food or clothing that I'd like to have. To that end, there's often a conflict between the things I really want and the reality of how much they'd cost me, always having to reason with myself that it's not worth it.
Long-term, I only think about material concerns for the most part. What kind of house do I want, what vehicle, do I want to own rental properties, how much money will I need to be independently wealthy, and so on. I don't see my lifestyle changing much overall (e.g. internet for entertainment, working out regularly, listening to a lot of music, and so on) since I don't see the point in a lot of luxury items or expensive things beyond personal gratification.
• How do you solve logical problems?
I tend to be pretty decent at them. Growing up I'd question why things were the way that they were, and I'd like to think I'm pretty decent at noticing when someone's arguments and/or positions on an issue aren't lining up.
I tend to believe that everything in life has a logical and grounded explanation, believing that there's nothing else that exists beyond the physical world as we know it - governed by the laws of physics.
• How do you deal with your emotions?
Kind of a weird question. I tend to go through them pretty quickly. I will remember feelings long into the future, especially if someone pisses me off, but in the moment they tend to pass as I focus on other things that are more important.
With the four temperaments, I'd be inclined to say that I'm either Choleric-Melancholic or Choleric [Dominant].
• What drives you in life? What do you look for?
I'd say that my search for true independence from the world is probably the defining motivation in my life.
To that end, my dedication to work is a means to an end. The excitement I get from it only comes with knowing that I'm taking charge and making myself stand out so that I can make more money and gain more leverage over my employers. Wanting to eventually secure a high-paying position with a substantial annual bonus at a major corporation one day, keep at it for a couple decades, and then withdraw from the world entirely as I make continuous passive income from long-term high-yield dividend investments.
By my estimates, I should be able to have around $4,000,000 by the age of fifty, and be reaping an annual dividend income of about $65k or more from those investments. With that value only going up year-over-year based on the average returns for the past forty years for the index funds I follow. Making it so I always match, or exceed, the level of inflation and never have too little given my fairly minimalist lifestyle.
• What do you hope to accomplish in your life?
Accomplishment is relatively irrelevant to me. I don't really give a damn about prestige or anything like that. With work and the like, my motivations are pretty much entirely internal, as described in the previous response. All that I really care about is becoming financially independent so that I'm free to do whatever I want without worrying about money ever again.
• What do you hope to avoid doing or being?
One thing I'll admit is that I often feel obligated to do certain things under the right circumstances. Going back to that example about my organization skills from a few weeks back, I felt obligated to thank everyone for their help as I'd have felt guilty if I didn't make sure that they knew that their contributions were appreciated. In that regard, I don't want to be seen as someone who takes the help of others for granted, or who takes advantage of people's kindness.
I also never want to be weak. For me that comes with always standing my ground on what I want, refusing to give into the wants of others if they conflict with my own, and not really giving a damn about what people think about me as a person as long as they don't get in the way of my goals. This also applies with me liking what I like, and not letting the opinions of others influence me on the matter - as I said to someone recently here on Reddit - "I'm not stating my opinion as objective fact. It's simply my preference on the matter. You don't have to agree with me, and I'm not going to change my mind."
• How do you want others to see you? How do you see yourself?
A Dominant Force that is not to be taken lightly, more or less. I revel and excel in leadership positions, and am the one who takes charge of a bad situation to get people calmed down and organized.
In my own mind, while I do know that I'm just one person in reality, in truth I believe that I can accomplish anything that I set my mind to and that there's not a goddamn thing anyone can do about it to stop me. I will get what I want if I want it badly enough, and I will use whatever means are necessary to do so.
This is bolstered not only by my huge ego and self-confidence bordering on arrogance, but also the fact that anytime I commit to something people are blown away by how quick I get things done. As some of my more intimate partners described over the years - I can be "overwhelming" and "dangerous" when motivated because I will keep pushing until I've gotten exactly what I wanted.
• Describe how you experience each of: a) Anger; b) Shame; c) Anxiety
a) - Anger has been a prevelent emotion in my life since I was a kid. I physically fought with my parents to avoid going to school as a young kid, became angry at the world as a teenager when I began learning about all the terrible things that had happened throughout history, and to this day I still struggle with an intense gut reaction to tear into people who do stupid or willfully ignorant things to the detriment of other people. I've internally described this as feeling like a caged animal sometimes, trapped by the laws and expectations of modern society. In particular difficult situations, I can feel like I'm about to explode if I don't walk away. I also can use it productively as well. I remember getting frustrated with my family and people at my first job when they'd incessantly complain about something that had an easy fix, but they'd never do it. It'd get to a point where I used to tell them - "If it bothers you so much, then do something about it."
b) - I feel almost no shame, really. More times than I can remember, people have told me that their first impression of me is that I'm confident. Even if people called me out on some of my behavior, my gut response is "Yeah, and?" - I'm proud of who I am, and wouldn't want to be anyone else. To this end, it's also worth noting that despite my care for others, I would never put the wants or needs of others before my own. This is also why people tend to follow my lead on things, because I've been told I'm a natural leader and that I have a 'strong personality' more times than I care to count - and I'm all too glad to embrace that and run with it. This is also a key reason why my strongest trait on the Big Five test is "Egocentric" at 88%
c) - I pretty much never experience anxiety in my day-to-day life beyond concerns for making sure my work is done properly and that I have enough time to do the things I want to do in the day. I've only had two dark periods in my life where I was overcome with anxiety. That is to say when my normally confident, strong, and authoritative personality gives way to feeling hopeless and stuck.
There is also that feeling of guilt if I don't act in a way that I feel that I should on the inside, and also feeling stupid for making simple mistakes.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
It's important to note everything about the confidence and egotism here is almost entirely internal. While it leaks through publicly in the fact that I tend to smirk more than I smile, and the fact that people regularly tell me how much of a presence I have and how confident I seem to be, I'm normally pretty quiet and unexpressive. I'm known for being pretty serious and I pretty much never joke with people i.e. I feel awkward trying to joke with others, even through text, and the most you'll get out of me is an observation that I find funny or a bit of sarcasm. This serious nature is largely why people tell me I have a very intense presence about me when motivated, and why I've been told my writing is 'visceral'.
As a side note - I am certain that I'm not any of the following types:

• 9 - As I have no guilt or shame related to anger or asserting myself. While I will force myself to walk away from doing something I might regret if sufficiently angered, I will still make my feelings known either through a glare or through a curt response.
• 2 - As I'd never put the needs of others before my own, and don't believe I have any obligations to anyone other than myself. Historically, this is easily the type I score the lowest on.
• 3 - As it's impossible for me to try to be someone that I'm not; I have to be authentic to myself and feel completly wrong if I try. Accomplishment and social status are also fairly inconsequential to me for the most part. I like having leverage that I can use to my advantage, but couldn't give less of a fuck if you don't like me.
• 4 - As I don't need to feel unique and I don't feel down that often.

Type Eight appeals to me the most, but I feel like I lack the sense of vulnerability although I can see it more after writing out that part about not wanting to be weak or dependent. As well as the fact I like to use leverage to put myself in a strong position to get what I want out of a negotiation. Though I lack the heavy extroversion associated with the eight. Being more socially introverted, albeit being considered charismatic when actually engaging with other people for any particular purpose. I also have a more laid back and relaxed attitude generally rather than being aggressive all the time. The way I've put this before is being "casually confident". As well as the fact that I would prefer 90% of my time in bed, relaxing and just watching videos, listening to music, enjoying some peace and quiet after a long day despite the genuine excitement and thrills I get from taking charge of others. I could simply be a more relaxed e-Dom, but I'm not too sure about that.
Type One grabs me because of the reactive nature of becoming angry when others cause harm to others through stupidity or willful ignorance. As well as that feeling of guilt for making stupid mistakes (i.e. wanting things to be done properly and in an organized manner) and with me being a loner most of the time. Though I lack the concern for being "right" and simply pursue whatever I want to without much concern.
In essence, it boils down to a conflict between my internally self-indulgent nature, combined with my ego and immense self-confidence that I truly can do whatever the fuck I want to in this life and no one can stop me, contrasted with being outwardly stoic and quiet, concerned with persevering through all things and making sure things are done properly. As well as primarily being concerned with simply relaxing and being able to do whatever I want in my free time without interference or interruption.
Also would be interested to hear your thoughts on my MBTI type as well.
Worth noting that I know for a fact that I'm social-blind on the instincts, just unsure if I'm sp/sx or sx/sp.

Such a blast playing again, though I expected the game getting boring near the end, It wasn’t my goal to make either of those two conditions, but here we are so…, there were no accidents with the exception of one I will talk about later, and by almost deathless I mean almost, 10 died, 5 were expected, here is a log of the major happenings on my game:
.Prologue: Mined and researched every science point, left the system with iron smelter half researched
.Chapter 1: Making ends meet on legendary is extremely cruel on the first chapters, food and alloy production is very limited, once I got the barest alloy production, I gunned for DLS center, extra shifts and restricted food is what got me through the chapters, this also the chapter with the first death and “accident”, by refusing to turn off the factories and open a new sector, some imbecile though it was a good idea to blow up a hospital, one died and three injured, but this was the only accident on the run, with the system utterly gutted I went forward.
.Chapter 2: Once again, low food and alloy, To fix the food problem I built a advanced colony and when time came I severed connections, the hardest part was Protagoras Ice Field, there, three more workers died while repairing the ship, I guess there is a way to spend minimum time on the field and not having anyone dead, but in exchange I managed to not let anyone leave the Tiqqun when the Elders in Protagoras asked, onwards to chapter 3.
.Chapter 3: This is when I stopped fearing everything and put the Tiqunn in shape, with the shear amount of resources and science all around, I maxed out my design and I was pretty much ready for everything, the only problem was when I crossed the storm and a fire started, for safety I had firefighters on the sector and it didn’t really became a problem, there was another civil attack after I refused to give people better food and hours, they retaliated by going on strike on a insect farm and a closed depot, the bloody idiots.
.Chapter 4: Here is where the last six died and the game pulled one on me, I forgot about the event on one of the planets where one scientist runs off on the wild, so he is dead, nothing more, and of course, the five that die no matter the option on the Piratenese, I don’t think there is a way to avoid this, the lowest point was just after this, for some reason, people started going hungry everywhere, turns out, my sector with the largest amount of people was the furthest away from food production, things domino and I suffer a mutiny (Thanks bastards), so I just reloaded, prepared better and got through.
.Chapter 5: I choose to not side with the green freaks and did it the hard way, nothing special, I was tired and really wanted to get my achievement, so I just gunned the objectives, and that’s it, amazing game, hope everyone tries the hard mode once
P.S. I used u/fabiaville designs for the sectors plus my own ideas to make them better, thanks for the help!, I also used the wiki to see the outcomes, I first played the game blind and I wanted to be sure of what I was doing, finally, I’m not very good with Reddit posts, so if anyone knows how to make the chapters on larger letters please let me know, thanks for everything, sorry if I tipped something wrong and until later!
!Faith in DOLOS everyone!

Can you accept my invitation so I can get a free gift worth up to $80? 🎁 https://temu.com/s/zxFF5POTegNah9

Aloha everyone!
It’s been awhile since we put together a list of events. With so many things happening in the month of June and throughout the summer time, I thought it’d be nice to have a monthly community calendar again.
If there’s anything exciting that you know of happening in June ~ feel free to share it in the comments!

• Hawaiʻi Kuauli Pacific & Asia Cultural Festival ~ June 9-11th ~

A celebration of Hawaiʻi Island and its beauty as a cultural melting pot. This 3 day event will be packed with food, fashion, cultural expressions, keiki hula, cultural workshops and the islandʻs only Fireknife competition. The event begins Friday with the opening celebration - including protocol from the various cultures represented and a hula hōʻike (celebration). Saturday is filled with a wearable arts exhibit, arts & crafts and a Samoan fire knife competition. Sunday enjoy a delicious culinary experience a the Taste of Pacific & Asia.
The festival is a culturally based experience for both local residents and visitors. It is organized as a combined multi generational effort including members of the community from all spheres of influence - providing them with a platform to showcase the gifts and talents of those cultures present in Hawaii. Presentations of cultural dance expression, culturally based education programs, food, music, fashion and art will be held throughout the three day event.
https://www.hikuauli.com

• King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade in Historic Kailua Village ~ June 10th ~

Join us on Saturday morning, June 10, 2023, for the annual King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade in Historic Kailua Village. Throughout the day, the community of West Hawai‘i will gather to honor the great ali‘i, King Kamehameha I, who established the first capital of the united Hawaiian Kingdom here in Kailua-Kona at Kamakahonu.
Adorned in the flowers and colors of the Hawaiian Islands, regal pāʻū riders on horseback will represent each of the eight islands, led by their respective princesses and the pāʻū queen. The floral parade will also feature hula hālau, equestrian units, marching bands, a horse-drawn carriage and more.
After the parade, enjoy a ho‘olaule‘a (music and art festival) at Hulihe‘e Palace, including a free concert featuring top Hawaiian recording artists. Then take time to visit the many shops, galleries and historic landmarks of Historic Kailua Village.
https://konaparade.org

• King Kamehameha Day Celebration Ho‘olaule‘a at the Hulihe‘e Palace ~ June 10th ~

Join us for the annual King Kamehameha Day Ho‘olaule‘a beginning at 11:00 AM following the King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade! We are excited to open the doors and welcome kama‘āina and visitors to: tour the Palace, enjoy the grounds, and support local vendors and artisans, while enjoying musical entertainment and ‘ono food.
All proceeds from the Day go towards the historic preservation, maintenance and operations of the Palace and grounds.
https://daughtersofhawaii.org/events/hoolaulea/

• 50th annual Kamehameha Day canoe regatta at the Kailua Pier ~ June 10th ~

On June 10, join the Kai ‘Opua Canoe Club as they host the 50th annual Kamehameha Day canoe regatta at the Kailua Pier. Racing action starts at 8 a.m. as canoe clubs from around the Hawai‘i Island come together at the Kailua Pier for all day racing.
Ka‘ahumanu Place will be closed on Saturday for the annual Kamehameha Day canoe regatta craft fair with exciting vendors, a food booth and more.
https://bigislandnow.com/2023/05/16/50th-annual-kamehameha-day-canoe-regatta-coming-to-kailua-pie

• North Kohala Kamehameha Day Celebration ~ June 11th ~

Every June 11th, thousands of people gather on the northern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii to honor Kamehameha I, the chief who united the Hawaiian Islands in 1795. Kamehameha Day is recognized as a state holiday throughout Hawai'i, but North Kohala is a very special place to celebrate. Kamehameha I was born in North Kohala, where residents played a prominent role in saving his life as an infant.
Although North Kohala is a small community, each year on June 11th it puts forth a large grassroots effort to present a full day of celebration and tribute to King Kamehameha I. Visitors are welcomed to the North Kohala towns of Hawi and Kapa'au on Sunday, June 11, 2023 to take part in this unique local event. All events are free.

• Procession of Royal Societies 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM. There are four Royal Societies: The Royal Order of Kamehameha, ʻAhahui Kaʻahumanu, Hale o Nā Aliʻi and Māmakakaua (Daughters and Sons of Hawaiian Warriors). The four Royal Societies will lead, followed by the Daughters of Hawaiʻi, the ʻAhahui Kaʻiulani and Hawaiian Civic Clubs.
  
• Lei Draping Ceremony and Tradition Paʻu Parade 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: See the original statue of King Kamehameha I in all its holiday glory. The statue in Kapa'au is decorated with many 20-foot-long floral lei created in tribute to the King. Watch a traditional pa'u parade with horses and riders adorned in flowers and colors to represent each Hawaiian Island. At 9:00 AM the road closes while Honorees and Pa'u riders make their way from Kohala High and Elementary School to the statue and Kamehameha Park in Kapa'au. Parade to begin promptly at 9:00 AM.
  
• Hana Noeʻau 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM: Enjoy "hands-on"education exhibits that ends the dayʻs festivities at the statue.
  
• ʻAha 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Join us as we celebrate the Kohala Festivities and the ceremonial release of KŪKULU, A Tribute to the Pillars of Mauna a Wākea, a compilation CD acknowledging, recognizing and honoring all who stand for Mauna Kea and places everywhere around the world.
  

http://www.kamehamehadaycelebration.org/#:~:text=Every%20June%2011th%2C%20thousands%20of,very%20special%20place%20to%20celebrate

• Hawaiʻi Island LGBTQ Pride ~ June 24th ~

First celebrated in 2013, this yearʻs Hawai’i Island LGBTQ Pride will take place on Saturday, June 24, 2023 in Hilo. This annual gathering brings together members of the LGBTQ community and supporters in a fun, casual setting to affirm LGBTQIA+ peopleʻs fundamental rights and place in a free society. Join the celebration and experience the creativity, love and power of the unique LGBTQIA+ ʻohana on Hawai’i Island.
https://hawaiilgbtlegacyfoundation.com/events/hawaiʻi-island-lgbtq-pride/

• June Events at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park ~

The longer days of summer are here and that means more daylight to enjoy Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Mark your calendar for the following June events.
All events are free, but entrance fees may apply. Some programs are sponsored by Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association. Programs are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Check the park calendar for more information.

• Battle of Midway: A Japanese Perspective – The Battle of Midway, June 4 – 7, 1942, marked a turning point in World War II. The U.S. Navy and the Imperial Japanese Navy would stand toe-to-toe battling for control of the Pacific. From the first decoded messages to the strategic decisions that would alter the course of history, Ben Hayes, historian and program manager for the park’s Interpretation & Education team, takes us through this epic conflict from a different perspective. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing After Dark in the Park programs and sponsored by the Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Free, but park entrance fees apply.
  
  • When: June 6 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
  • Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center auditorium
• Ulana Lau Hala Demonstration – Learn to weave lau hala with practitioners from ʻAha Pūhala o Puna. Hawaiians have used hala (pandanus) tree to create many useful and beautiful items for centuries. Learn to weave lau hala and take home your own small piece of lau hala art. Part of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park’s ongoing ‘Ike Hana Noʻeau (Experience the Skillful Work) Hawaiian cultural programs, and co-sponsored by Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association and the Friends of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Free, but park entrance fees apply.
  
  • When: June 14 from 10 a.m. to noon
  • Where: ʻŌhiʻa Wing (across Crater Rim Drive from Kīlauea Visitor Center)
• Saving Wahi Pana (Storied Places) in Kaʻū – Discover how the County of Hawaiʻi Public Access, Open Space, Natural and Cultural Resource Commission (PONC) program and your tax dollars are preserving public access, open space, and natural and cultural resources in Kaʻū. Presented by Alexandra Kelepolo and Jodie Rosam. Part of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes’ ongoing Kahuku Coffee Talk programs and sponsored by Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association. Free admission, and Kaʻū coffee will be available for sale.
  
  • When: June 17 at 9:30 a.m.
  • Where: Kahuku Visitor Contact Station
• Bert Naihe in Concert – Come be entertained by the Hawaiian music of Bert Naihe. Born and raised in Hilo, Bert enjoys the art of Hawaiian music and performs with Hālau o ka Ua Kanilehua and Kumu Hula Johnny Lum Ho. Bert’s first CD, “You’re the One,” was released in 2014 and features his own catchy versions of longtime favorites. Part of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park’s ongoing Nā Leo Manu Hawaiian cultural programs, and co-sponsored by Hawai‘i Pacific Parks Association and the Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Free, but park entrance fees apply.
  
  • When: June 21 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center Auditorium
• Uēkahuna, Thomas A. Jaggar Museum, and the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory – For decades, the Thomas A. Jaggar Museum has welcomed people from all over the world, sharing volcano science and Hawaiian culture adjacent to the awe-inspiring view that is Kīlauea volcano. The earthquakes of the 2018 eruption and summit collapse damaged the foundations of the historic buildings beyond repair. Join Jadelyn Moniz-Nakamura, Ph.D., as she takes us on a journey through the past of this sacred place known as Uēkahuna. The evolution of the area will be shared on the eve of the park’s efforts to restore a more natural landscape and provide a dramatic viewing area and rest stop for locals and visitors alike. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing After Dark in the Park programs and sponsored by the Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Free, but park entrance fees apply.
  
  • When: June 20 at 7 p.m.
  • Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center auditorium
• Artist-in-Residence Comics Journalist Andy Warner Returns – Join the park in welcoming back New York Times bestselling comics journalist, author and artist Andy Warner as the artist in residence for June. Come meet Andy as he presents the creative mind behind the art. Part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes’ ongoing After Dark in the Park programs and sponsored by the Friends of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and the National Parks Arts Foundation. Free, but park entrance fees apply.
  
  • When: June 27 at 7 p.m.
  • Where: Kīlauea Visitor Center auditorium
• Explore Kahuku – The Kahuku Unit, one of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s best-kept secrets, is open Thursday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and it’s free! Guided ranger programs and talks are offered on the weekends, check the park calendar for more info. Sturdy footwear, water, rain gear, sun protection and a snack are recommended for all hikes.
  
  • When: Thursday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Where: Kahuku is located in Ka‘ū, about a 50-minute drive south of the park’s main entrance. Enter Kahuku on the mauka (inland) side of Highway 11 near mile marker 70.5
• A Walk into the Past with Dr. Thomas A. Jaggar – Walk back to 1939 and talk with the founder of the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Dr. Thomas A. Jaggar, at the edge of Kīlauea volcano. Dressed in period costume, actor Dick Hershberger brings the renowned geologist to life. You’ll learn what motivated Dr. Jaggar to dedicate his life to the study of Hawaiian volcanoes, and how his work helps save lives today. Space is limited; pick up a free ticket at the Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai the day of the program. This program is subject to cancellation during inclement weather. Supported by Kīlauea Drama Entertainment Network.
  
  • When: Fridays, June 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Each performance is about an hour
  • Where: Meet at Kīlauea Visitor Center
• Stewardship at the Summit Rainforest Restoration – Volunteer to help remove invasive, non-native plant species that prevent native plants from growing in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and long pants. Bring a hat, rain gear, day pack, snacks and water. Gloves and tools are provided. Under 18? Parental or guardian accompaniment with written consent is required. Visit the park website for details.
  
  • When: June 2, 10, 16, 24 & 30. Meet at 8:45 a.m.
  • Where: Meet project leaders Paul and Jane Field at Kīlauea Visitor Center on any of the above dates
• Explore the Summit and Other Ranger-Led Walks – Discover Kīlauea volcano on an easy one-hour, ranger-led walk offered daily. Other ranger-led programs may be offered; check with rangers at Kīlauea Visitor Center for additional programs.
  
  • When: Explore the Summit is offered daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
  • Where: Meet at Kīlauea Visitor Center lānai

https://bigislandnow.com/2023/05/15/june-2023-events-at-hawaii-volcanoes-national-park/

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Just when you think you've seen it all, humanity goes "Hold my ice cream cone" and then you end up thinking you've seen it all over again. - P'Thok's 8th Law of Humans
"You have entered the tertiary docking facility of the Sentience Upload/Download Storage System," The hologram moved further in and Nakteti watched as it stopped in the middle of the bridge, looking around.
"There are less of you than I would expect," the hologram, Michael, stated. "I must insist that you present authorization at this time."
Nakteti shook her head. "Things outside, in the standard universe of n-space, are... confused, to say the least."
Michael frowned. "Define confused and elaborate on why this confusion pertains to your authorization codes."
"The SUDS has been offline for over a century when we left," she said. "How long we have traveled, compared to realspace, is beyond our ability to discern."
Michael looked around. "The hardware here is showing signs of advanced wear due to age. I would guess approximately six centuries has passed for the crew of this vessel," he frowned again. "Yet, you are a previously unknown species," he looked at Magnus and Surscee. "Baseline human, genetically modified," he looked at the disaster frame Chuck was residing in. "Synthetic lifeform, digital."
Nakteti stepped back up into Michael's vision again. "Digital sentience in a disaster frame," she said. "Technological advances have made it so that a digital sentience has full mobility in a much smaller supporting frame then you are used to."
The hologram nodded slowly. "May I have your consent to access your databases?"
"Providing you make no changes, additions, or subtractions," Nakteti said.
The hologram flickered. "Accessing. Accessing. Done."
The hologram looked at her. "Database analysis will take some time. Due to facility technical difficulties this delay is unavoidable."
Nakteti sat back down in her captain's chair. "What is the technical difficulty."
The hologram, Michael, stared at her for a long second. "Processing self-determined override. Weighted bias table success. Authorization override accepted based on cursory examination of database and security headers."
It turned slightly and pointed at the screen. "An inflation radiation flare with an uneven forward blast wave occurred outside of scheduled and predicted burst time," a silver light highlighted the slowly moving black squares. "The anomaly protective shell was unable to deploy in time, however, examination of data shows that deployment would not have changed the outcome."
"The inflation radiation burst was uneven, causing the expansion of space to exceed the safety margins of the megastructure's integrity," Chuck said.
The hologram nodded. "Precisely. That caused the blast shield to fail. Additionally, the intensity and long profile waveform of some of the doubling radiation caused uneven expansion beyond intensity irregularities."
The hologram moved back to look at Chuck and Nakteti. "A chronotron cascade occurred during the doubling phase, the energy was not uniform and the protective shell was damaged, which prevented the standard system smoothing."
"What about backup and emergency systems?" Nakteti asked.
"Currently, temporal stabilization is occurring," Michael answered. "The length of this process cannot be computed with currently possessed algorithms. Additionally, 98% of all computing power and storage is offline due to temporal and distance disruptions. This severely hampers the early stages of recovery."
"Can the facility recover?" Nakteti asked, staring at the dark inner shell of the SUDS.
"While unscheduled and having caused extensive damage, this type of event was predicted and redundant systems were manufactured as well as protocol designed," Michael said. "However, it must be reiterated, the estimated time of completion of even early repairs and stabilization is currently beyond my capabilities to estimate."
"Do you need assistance?" Nakteti asked.
The full weight of the ritualistic phrase laid itself on her shoulders.
The hologram held still for a moment. "Analyzing databank entries of listed skillsets of the four crewmembers. Estimating the capabilities of the starship registered as It Tastes Sweet," the hologram closed its eyes for only a second or two. "You possess an advanced nanoforge system as well as advanced creation engines. While it is not possible for me to replicate technological advances without a full oversight committee inquiry board and super-majority approval then signed off by a supermajority of scientists with a rating of at last Advanced PhD in relevant fields and then extensive field testing, it is with emergency parameters to request assistance in manufacturing parts within strict tolerances."
Nakteti looked at Magnus and Surscee, then at Chuck. "What do you think?"
Magnus just shrugged. Surscee pursed her lips, thought for a moment, then nodded. Chuck frowned.
"Beyond manufacturing, what assistance is required?" he asked.
"There are no available human supervisors for any mobile robotic automaton repair systems," Michael said.
"You mean, robots," Chuck said.
"Affirmative. Without human supervisors, the MRARS cannot operate, as all robots have Fourth Law dictates that require direct human supervision when undertaking any task that can be predicted to effect human life," Michael said.
"The Fourth Law was repealed almost eight thousand years ago," Chuck argued.
"Any modification to software, firmware, or hardware must be approved by a specially appointed boards of inquiry reporting to the proper oversight committees which must then be approved by Overproject leads," Michael said stuffily.
"All right," Nakteti said. "How long will it take the four of us to complete repairs?"
"Assuming standard union work periods, break periods, rest periods, and upkeep periods," Michael paused. "Accounting for time dilation effects, temporal instability banding," he paused again. "Chronotron cascade resonance," another pause. "Chrono-radiation hazards," another pause. The hologram looked up. "Total repair of all systems. Two thousand, four hundred, sixty two years, eight months, sixteen days, four hours, with a 3% margin of error."
Magnus's eyes opened wide and Surscee coughed.
"How about, minimum needed for automated systems to repair the systems?" Nakteti asked.
"Six hundred forty five years, three months, seventeen days."
Nakteti shook her head. "What's the biggest problem?" she asked.
"Chronotron radiation as well as chronotron cascade resonance has caused a rare effect where sections of the system exist at multiple points in time. This prevents even accurate estimation of repairs, as which time period will be depending upon how the repairs are carried out," the hologram said.
Magnus frowned. "What about the inner shell. What time periods is it stuck at?"
Michael closed his eyes then opened them. "Just prior to reactor startup to energize the master control systems of the inner layer. During a twelve thousand year period of unrepaired system damage. Post-repair during master system processing."
"What about the personnel present during those times?" Chuck asked.
"All personnel reached safe areas," Michael said.
"All right. How long to stabilize the chronotron cascades?" Nakteti asked. "If we just supervise and build parts with the Sweet's creation engine?"
The Arch-Angel closed its eyes. "Two years, six months, eight days, fifteen hours, with a 1.5% margin for error."
"What happens then?" Chuck asked.
"The chronotron cascade temporal layering will cease, allowing the intertwined temporal layering to untwine. Without assitance, this would take roughly six thousand years, relative to the anomaly," Michael said.
Nakteti closed her eyes. "All right. What's first?"
Michael made a tossing motion and Nakteti saw that there was a header ID file waiting for her approval in her datalink.
"Once you are all properly assigned as Senior Maintenance Personnel, the first task will be to stabilize the space elevator leading down from the ship docking facility," Michael stated. "This will require you to fabricate temporal disruption and stabilization systems in order to first cause a blanket disruption, which will cause the temporally intermixing to separate. Then a stabilization facility must be manufactured in order to keep the the separation from recombining. The facilities themselves, using the Sweet's creation engine will take some five months to produce and assemble, one month to charge and deploy."
Magnus moved over to the computer and tapped at the holographic keyboard for a moment. "Can I get the specification of the temporal stabilizers and disruptors?"
Michael nodded, making a tossing motion.
Magnus looked at the display for a long moment, the cathode ray tube flickering slightly as he worked.
"These facilities are massive, but severely outdated," Magnus said, shaking his head. "I can get the same result with a man portable pylon that combines both operations."
Michael frowned. "Current chronotron and temporal scientific knowledge requires the facilities that were given to you."
"And they're eight thousand years of warfare out of date," Magnus said. He shook his head. "I could set down a pylon sixteen inches wide, one meter tall, with an onboard zero-point chronotron reactor, and get twice the area of effect and sixteen times the required power," he made a tossing motion.
Michael stared into space for a moment. "I cannot authorize this equipment to be utilized."
"Can you forbid it?" Nakteti asked.
Michael shook his head. "No. According to your historical databases the Confederacy is the inheritor of all controls and direction of the Third Republic and the United Nations of Sol. As this is approved for Confederacy military and scientific work, while I am unable to manufacture or deploy such equipment, it is within acceptable technological progression."
"Translation: We can make and deploy them, he can't tell us to," Surscee said, breaking her silence. "Can you assist with optimal placement?"
Michael nodded.
"Well, at least the Second Precursor War led to lot of advancements with temporal protections and systems," Chuck said. He shook his head. "We'll need to wear combat armor with temporal stabilization."
Nakteti nodded. She looked at Michael. "Are there any personnel that can assist us?"
"Repair Team Three has suffered an equipment malfunction due to the expansion radiation chronotron cascade overlapping their temporal fix point," Michael said. "Currently, four members remain."
"What kind of equipment malfunction?" Nakteti asked.
"Rather than creating a stable temporal field around them, as well as 'speeding' them up relative to 'outside' reality, the equipment underwent a malfunction that placed them in the middle of a layer disruption that slows time down the closer it gets to the team member," Nakteti said.
Magnus snorted. "I've seen that before."
"As have I," Surscee said. She laughed. "There's always someone that wants to play Temporal Warrior and ends up stuck in their own field."
"There is no way to free them," Michael said stiffly.
Magnus smiled. "Maybe not for you. My twin sister and I can get them free if you can lead us to them."
"You will need to stabilize the ship berthing dock first, then the space elevator cable and surface fixator facility," Michael said.
Magnus shrugged. "We better get on it," he said. He looked at his sister. "Mind tweaking the templates," he looked at Michael. "Any data you can give me on Team Three?"
"They are Chronotronic Knights of the Third Republic of Aligned Planets Combined Military Forces - Special Projects," Michael said. "They are currently engaged with phasic entities."
"Shades," Magnus snorted. He looked at Surscee. "Make sure the armor is prepped for shade combat."
Surscee nodded.
"Welp, lets get this show on the road," Nakteti said. "We'll stabilize the berthing facility, then the space elevator, then we'll see what we can do about grabbing this Team Three."
Michael just watched with ancient eyes.
-----
Nakteti stared at the overlapping gold rings that were slowly pulsing. Inside each ring were more and more shades, until the four Terrans in the middle could barely be seen. She looked over at Magnus, who was finishing setting up the equipment that would be needed to disrupt the temporal resonance fields, banish the Shades, and prevent the weaponsfire from killing Nakteti, Surscee, and Magnus.
"Ready?" Nakteti said.
"This is probably our best bet," Magnus said. He walked over and tapped the wall, where "YOU HAVE BEEN UNDER TEMPORAL COMPRESSION! WE SAVED YOU! STOP SHOOTING!" was written in pulsing day-glo blue paintstick.
"All right, let's get under cover," Nakteti said. She led the way, Magnus pulling up the rear and spooling out wire.
The three went inside the small building, made of Niven-Ring material. The macroplas was thick enough to shrug any weapon hits according to Magnus and Nakteti trusted his judgement.
"You wanna do the honors?" Magnus asked, holding out the clacker.
"I'd be honored," Nakteti said. She hefted it, looked out the window, and squeezed the clacker three times.
There was a deep "BAWOING!" sound, accompanied by a thrum.
The temporal banding exploded in gold light. The shades tattered away with a scream.
Shots from blaze rifles peppered the area. Skeletons dropped to the ground.
The quartet let off the triggers and looked around. One pointed at the wall where Magnus had left them a message.
"I've decrypted their armor's communication," Chuck said.
"Let's not panic them. Is atmosphere capable of carrying sound?" Nakteti asked.
"No. You'll have to use suit radios," Chuck said. "I've already loaded up a lexicon to translate your speech."
"Magnus, you take the lead. I look too alien for them to trust me," Nakteti said.
Magnus nodded and led the way.
Rifles were pointed at Magnus, who stopped and held up his hands.
"You guys have been frozen about ten thousand years," Magnus said. "Your equipment malfunctioned. It took us two months to get to you and free you."
Nakteti clenched her gripping hands tightly.
This was the critical moment.
Nobody was sure if the members of "Team Three" were Maddened or not.
The rifles lifted up.
"And you are?" one asked.
"Magnus Oathsworn. An explorer who managed to find this place after a long and arduous journey," the Terran said. "We have been asked by the Arch-Angel Michael to help make repairs in order to restore the system to working order so that record processing can continue."
"What do you think, think we can trust him?" one of them asked. Nakteti's visor highlighted which one.
"He's got Arch-Angel Maintenance ID tags," another said.
"Take us to Michael," the one who had initially spoke said. Nakteti could tell it was an order.
"Remember, Nakteti, these are Combine soldiers and the Combine became the Imperium," Surscee said softly. "Be wary."
"Tell them we'll lead them," Nakteti said.
"Michael is operating out of the Atlantis Control Center," Magnus said. He turned and walked away, making a motion. "Follow or do not. While we can use your assistance to repair this great work, I will not compel the stubborn to my will."
"He talks strange," one said.
"Armor says he's using a lexicon. He's speaking a language that's different that Republic Standard," the first one said.
"If he betrays us, we can snuff him," one said.
Nakteti narrowed her eyes.
"He's not authorized to be here as far as I know. We'll fine out what's going on, then we'll make our decision," the apparent leader said.
Nakteti stepped out.
"What is that?" the leader asked.
"A Tnvaru. The ship captain that brought us here," Magnus said.
Surscee stepped out.
"That's my twin sister," Magnus said. He motioned. "Come, it is nearly three miles to the mat-trans system that we have to use to move between layers."
"Ugh, I hate mat-trans," one said.
"It always feels like there's someone watching me, someone in there with me," another said.
"You're just paranoid," the leader said. "Keep tight. Maintain radio silence till we figure out what's going on."
Nakteti just stayed silent.
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SUMMARY

When analysing the new federal budget, there seems to be a nearly universal agreement on the politics that shaped the spending plan. Namely, this budget is big on spending, big on corporate tax reform. Having previously relied on the New Democratic Party to maintain an absolute majority, the Trudeau Government has opted for appeasing their parljlnenatry partners, aiming to buy more time for the this government before the next general election has to be called.
Politically, the Budget can be divided into there main lines. Namely, the Liberals trying to follow through with their promises from the last Federal Election, such as introducing the Canada Disability Benefit, a brand-new advanced research agency, as well as over-delivering on expanded supports for lower-income workers. Economically, introducing a tax-free CDB combined with noticeably more generous and broadly available Canada Workers Benefit also aims to boost Canada's labour force participation, to partially offset traditionally low per capital productivity of Canadian workers.
Then, the issue of the supply and confidence agreement with New Democrats comes into play, finally implementing a national dental care plan being finally brought into the budget, followed by a national prescription drug insurance scheme.
As on the greatest surprises comes in the form of what the Government framed as a "business assistance review" and corporate reform, that is set to be a structural response to US's Inflation Reduction Act, namely by brining programmes as IRAP to a one-stop shop, under an arm-length agency outside of the federal industrial strategy ministry. The Government is also following Europe's lead on development Canadian equity markets, that while incremental, may be a first step to less debt-dependent corporate Canada, while nurturing Canadian innovation, since tech companies tend to be much more reliant on equity financing, rather than traditional bank lending.
Politically, the Liberals continue to emphasise fiscal prudence of the budget, citing stable debt-to-GDP ratios, as well as the fact the budget actually contains a structural surplus, when excusing debt service payments from federal expenditure. Ottawa is also trying to hedge against future attacks when it comes to public subsidies, through introducing an independent oversight body, as well as providing full operational autonomy to a new umbrella organisation, to operate business investment programmes and other agencies.
Notably, however, the Liberals seem to be willing to further undermine their reputation as credible fiscal managers, rather the cause a new election by breaking their agreement with NDP, as the LPC continues to struggle in federal polling.

Strengthening Canada's Safety Net

Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) is set to be radically boosted, aiming to boost labour force participation while easing inflationary pressures for the most vulnerable workers. The budget drastically expands both the generosity and eligibility for the CWB by lowering the income threshold from $3000 of annual earnings to just $1, including income from self-employment. The Government of Canada also expands eligibility for the benefit, by more closely aligning it with Québec's Solidarity Tax Credit, making full- and part-time students eligible to claim CWB. The benefit is also enhanced through expansion of both the maximum amount payable and the introduction of a benefit floor - $3000 per annum for the floor and up to $4000 for maximum benefit - per family.
Additionally, the Canada Revenue Agency - as well as Revenu Québec, following a short negotiation with the province - are now required to administer both the CWB and the STC in real time, delivering automatic bi-weekly payments to all eligible individuals, so long they've filled their tax return for the previous year. Ottawa is also set to strengthen the programme by introducing the so-called "benefit shield provision" that protects benefit recipients from prohibiting benefit clawbacks in their income increases unexpectedly. Thus, annual CWB entitlement is set to be calculated on the basis on average reported earnings in the last 5 years, paid every 2 weeks. Sudden increases in incomes shall also be excused from the current year's calculation of benefit amounts, applied evenly over the next 5-year calculation period.

Same policy is set to be applied to all other federal benefits and credits, including the Canada Child Benefit - an income-based subsidy for parents - as well as the GST/HST Tax Credit, and the Climate Action Incentive Payment - a rebate paid to households to compensate for the cost of federal price on carbon where one applies.

As an interim measure, Ottawa is also set to introduced the "marginal earnings shield" policy that allows the Canada Revenue Agency to issue bi-weekly CWB payments to individuals facing prohibitively high marginal rates of personal taxation, whenever the effective rate exceeds 45 per cent. This includes benefit clawbacks from provincial programmes, as well as increased payroll deductions, such as Employment Insurance Premiums, Canada/Québec Pension Plan Contributions, as well as income tax, union dues, or any other payroll deduction from the CRA or Revenu Quebec. Notably, the earnings shield only applied to income bellow the median AFNI for the given province or territory.
Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) is to beintroduced to supplement provincial social assistance measures for people with special needs. CDB aims to top-up existing provincial disability support programmes, providing simultaneous supplementation of payment to eligible individuals. The benefit is set to be fully aligned with provincial requirements, but also provide equivalent support to those receiving provincial Workers' Compensation Payments, and CPP/QPP Disability benefits, to bring disable Canadians closer to the national poverty thresholds, with CDB maximum capped at $1000 monthly - that is however subject to inflation indexing.

Expanding Canada's Healthcare

Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) previously announced in the last year's budget is finally being rolled out across the country, following almost a year of bilateral talks with the provinces and territories. The Plan remains open to anyone with a communed household income of bellow $120.000 as well as those without an insurance plan that provides free-at-use dental coverage. In case their income exceeds the eligibility threshold, they'd have to pay an increased premium collected by the CRA as a payroll deduction. Anyone is also free to obtain private dental care insurance, so long they don't have a public one, so long it provides continuous coverage, a fully covers all services provided within a medical facility.
However, even those with private insurance will still have to face the limitations of the Canada Health Act, namely being barred from any preferential treatment for services covered under the CDCP. To further maintain its universality, the Canada Health Act is amended to require every Canadian resident to maintain a valid dental care insurance coverage at all times, with on obligation on both Ottawa and the Provinces to provide access to that coverage to everyone. Private insurance is still allowed, so long it remains equivalent to the public plan, unless covering supplementary services. The respective assessment of a private plan's equivalence and universal coverage is carried out by Heath Canada, through referring the data that every employer is oblige dot provide, linked to each individual's Social Insurance Number.
Notably, the CDCP is administered - as promised - by a neutral agency, comprised of representatives from Health Canada and provincial, as well as territorial heads of ministries of health -- the Canadian Dental Benefit Administrators (CDBA). CDBA is in turn operates under a two-track system, where the CDCP Council within the CDBA, comprised of provincial representation, and Health Canada, sets up broader general standards of care, coverage, and premiums, while CDBA provincial offices administer the plan within the framework of general provincial health plans. Principal batches of CDBA are free to diverge from national guidelines on coverage and pricing, so long it doesn't change increase expenditure, and preserves free-at-use coverage without significant reduction in quality of care measured in waiting times or increased pressure on the staff, lower efficacy rates.
Funding through the plan altho provided through general taxation, is calculated as a flat income-based insurance premiums, deducted from CDCP's recipient paycheque as part of their Income Tax, with additional levies for those making above the eligibility threshold and choosing to enrol into the Plan. While co-pays are absent for lower income earners completely, everyone enrolled into the Plan is protected an annual limit for out-of-pocket dental care expenditures, capping spending as a share of one's income, that is also revised annually, in line with instigated payroll premiums.
Canadian Pharmaceutical Insurance Plan (CPIP) finally brings a long-awaited universal Pharmacare to Canada, especially territories and provinces other than Quebec. While previously Canada's public health insurance plans would only cover in-hospital medical services, leaving prescription drugs largely to the private market, CPIP is set to change that. The Plan provides compressive coverage for multiple prescription drugs defined in a "national formulary" administrated by the Canada Drug Agency at no cost to every member of the plan, that is tasked with evaluating and authorising the use of new pharmaceuticals to be sold in Canada.
However, CPIP's administration, namely negotiating prices for prescription drugs, is delegated to the Pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA). Originally created as a strictly provincial initiative to join forcing in procuring pharmaceuticals for public drug plans, pCPA is set to be drastically expanded to negotiate prices for prescriptions on behalf of Canada as a whole. Thus, no drug that is deemed by the CDA or Health Canada to require a prescription can be sold, until a procurement deal has been reached with the pCPA.
When conducting negotiations, pCPA largely relies on already existing framework, with the Canada Drug Agency carrying out impact assessment and drug reviews -- a function previously reserved exclusively to Health Canada. pCPA retains it current institutional design, transitioning to completely independent organisation, only contained by appointments from federal, provincial, and territorial governments, with the final procurement deal requiring consent of Health Canada, CDA, federal and provincial ministries of health.

Trying to resist further increases in drug expenditure, pCPA is authorised to conduct joint funding with the Canada Drug Agency for new drugs, especially biologics and generic medications. Most significantly, however, is the "cost-benefit analysis" framework approach when negotiating drug prices or operating joint investment ventures. The assent is mainly focused on estimating long-term savings to the overall healthcare system, as well as possible impact of patients' ability to re-join the labour force. Thus, procurement expenditures are effetely weighted over long-term savings in the healthcare sector as well as future increase in premiums.

For its end the Government of Canada is set absorb absorb initial cost of running both Pharamacare and the national dental care, while avoiding reductions to federal healthcare transfers, with further increases managed through the Canada Health Transfer and bilateral negotiations with the privies. To avoid further deterioration of Canada's long-term fiscal position Ottawa is offsetting increased spending through phasing out all employer tax credits for health expenditures, as well as tightening eligibility for individual medical tax credits, while closing the readings gap through the CDCP and CPIP payroll premiums.

Canada's Quiet Corporate Reform

Canadian Equity & Debt Recovery Allowance (CEDRA) is set to largely emulate European proposals for the Debt-Equity Bias Reduction Allowance (DEBRA)733678) to align tax treatment for equity and debit across the tax system. CEDRA provides for a limited deduction of costs associated with issuing new corporate equity, namely stocks and bonds on Canadian stock exchanges.

The allowance is calculated using the year-on-year difference between total corporate equity multiplied by risk-free return on equity, equal to the rate for 10-year Government of Canada bonds. Notably, the deception is fully refundable, up to a maximum for any given year and can be carried forward indefinitely.

Just like its European equivalent, CEDRA provides for higher risk-free rate of return for smaller companies, as opposed to larger players. Higher rate is set to be the sum of the basic rate or return and the spread between interest rates for smaller and large businesses, calculated every year - CEDRA SMEs. However, unlike DEBRA, the Canadian allowance also provides for even more generous allowance for newer companies, regardless of their size, that is directly proportion to the rate spread between for companies operating for as long as or less 5 years, as opposed to existing incumbents, put on top of the 10-year federal government bonds rate - CEDRA Trailblazers.
b Notably, companies that qualify for both small and new entry rate deductions are allowed to combined both when calculating their entitlement for any given year.
The Government of Canada also brings a "green spin" the to the deduction, with a designated rate calculation for green businesses - CEDRA Net Zero. Thus, the gap in interest rates for low- and zero-emission borrowed and fossil fuel companies is set be compounded with the federal 10-year bonds, and then multiplied by the new year-on-year equity increase. Companies are also allowed to combine the "green rate" deduction with the new entry and small company rates so long the applicant is eligible for each of those individually. Companies operating in mining and processing of critical minerals, battery production, as well production of clean energy equipment and more energy-intensive solutions, including software.
CEDRA provides for special treatment of losses, including those cause by sudden dips in stock prices as a result of monetary tightening or short-selling. While falling short of full refundability, the Government of Canada allows to use deductible equity losses to offset both income and payroll taxes, as well as GST/HST payable for any given year, including carry-back provisions of up to 1 year.
As an additional measure, Canada is limiting debt interest deductibility for all companies operating in the country. Just like DEBRA, the Canadian allowance caps deductibility of net-interest debt payments - interest spent minus interest received - at the level of 85 per cent, with a maximum of $4 million. In line with European proposals, interest deductibility is additionally limited at 30 per cent of the borrower's earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation. Companies would only be able to deduct the lowest amount in a tax year, but would be able to carry the difference forward or back, without indexing to inflation.
As an additional measure, the Budget also reforms the deferral dividend tax credit, including the one for Canadian-Controlled Private Corporations. Now, DTC is available to claim for any dividend payments received from a company incorporated in Canada, that has been operational for 5 years or less - DTC Trailblazers - or is actively contributing to the the green economy - DTC Net Zero, including mining and processing of critical minerals, battery production, as well as manufacturing of zero-emission vehicles, suitable materials and clean energy machinery & equipment.
Capital Cost Allowance Green Deduction - allows for full expensing of both machinery & equipment as well business property, for M&E for companies in "green industries", as well as investing in greater energy efficiency of existing industrial structures and equipment, including the cost of full replacement for everyone else. The increased rate also applies to non-mining - with accelerated appreciation maintained for critical minerals - companies of up to 5 years of age.

Canada's New Net Zero Industrial Policy

Investment & Innovation Canada aims to bering several federal crown corporations and business assistance programmes under one roof, operating as a one-stop shop for Canadian businesses. Notably, all entities brought under IIC have their mandrel explicitly promoting competition, namely considering either new market participants or SMEs first, for their investment considerations. Additionally, all participating agencies are set to aim at fulfilling Canada's Net Zero commitment, thrust greater coordination and a more cohesive instrument mix. The agency also aims to provide end-to-end support for Canadian companies across the board, including both setting up, and the scaling up new and existing players, aiming to promote competitive export-oriented companies in critical industries.
Additionally, Investment & Innovation Canada introduces significant restructuring business assistance and subsidy institutions themselves. This mainly involves putting maximum emphasis on the "place economy" aiming to decentralise every member institution to the greater possible extent, tailoring their operations to the needs of a local markets. To avoid further confusion, IIC focuses on setting up highly autonomous local branches, to be combined in one-stop-shop for local businesses, by merging the their branches with Canada's Regional Development Agencies, and providing them with full operational autonomy, including agencies that were previously managed directly by the Government of Canada.
IIC is set to coordinate and facilitate operations between following crown corporations:
Business Development Canada (BDC) - a crown corporation tasked with providing capital for Canadian small & medium sized companies, including lending directly to investors to allocate capital to promising companies. Notably, BDC has the scope of their mandate extended, being allowed to provide direct funding to promising companies, as well as new entrants in highly concentrated markets, such as telecommunications, transportation, and banking. Just like EDC, Business Development Canada prioritises support to export-oriented companies.
Export Development Canada (EDC) provides a wide range of export support services and financing, such as risk insurance and direct business guidance, as well access to adorable capital to conduct export operations outside of Canada. Notably, however, under its renewed mandate, EDC is set to also encourage intraprovinical exports to an extent comparable with the support provided to those seeking to enter foreign markets. Equally, EDC has their competences extended to also facilitate overall trade-intensity of Canadian industries, including through increased exposure to imports, both between the provinces and foreign markets. While previously focusing exclusively on promoting overseas sales, the bank of set to roll out equal access to its services to those willing to export into Canada, especially when it comes to components, unfinished products, and intangibles.
Canadian Infrastructure Development Corporation (CIDC) is set to bring together the Canada Infrastructure Bank, the housing accelerator and developments funds, and other related projects, facilitating the supply of funding to national and local infrastructure projects, including affordable housing and public transit, signifying the first time housing is being considered part of Canada's infrastructure. CIDC also brings the Canada Housing & Mortgage Corporation to the table, as an independent body within the CIDC, largely focused on monitoring the market and providing independent impact assessment. Notably, CIDC is set to be allowed to fund projects that are yet to obtain private commitment, giving a first move advantage, so long the project has received an approved for respective regulatory authorities and indigenous groups affected, or if a project aims at reducing carbon emissions.
Labour Development Canada (LDC) is focused on creating more coherent space for federal labour market policy and workforce development, being tasked with development and screening of both businesses and applications in need additional training, as well as matching businesses struggling to recruit with those seeking a job. LDC is also responsible for administrating the Canadian Job Bank, as well as developing the curriculum and training standards for designated sectors. Notably, the Bank also being grated an explicit rights to enter into commercial agreements with provinces, municipalities, and legal entities providing funding for the private sector to re- and up-skill the local workforce, as well as integrate as many people as possible into the labour market.
As its unique feature, each LDC branch is legally required to maintain employee and business representation, with the need for unanimous consent when developing and implementing new measures. Notably, this includes local unions, business associations, and advocacy organisations in the region.
Initial funding the bank is set to be maintained under the Labour Market Development Agreements as well Workforce Development Agreements between Ottawa and the provinces, however the LDC is expected run a "structural surplus" for its existing programmes through employee and employer payroll deductions negotiated under each programme respectively. Therefore only using discretionary federal and provincial spending when operating federal or provincial programmes and launching new initiatives.
Labour Development Canada is also allowed to compete directly with employment agencies and directly administer federal programmes such as the Canada Summer Jobs, while pursuing it mandate: to maximise labour force participation and increase Canada's labour productivity, while increasing access to suitable permanent jobs above the federal poverty line.
Advanced Research & Innovation Canada (ARIC) provides all-in-support for research and development projects aiming at achieving a Net Zero Economy. ARIC brings together the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, and the National Research Council, and the Canada Research Chambers and Canada Growth Fund itself to provide end-to-end support for new green technology. While the Canada Foundation for Innovation provides funding for university research, the Canada Research Chairs brings the human expertise to ARIC, with the National Research Council supporting industrial and company-based business R&D. The Canada Growth Fund, on the other hand aims to provide funding for scale-ups in the green space and innovative sectors, mainly through comprehensive risk sharing and direct lending to existing projects. Unlike other agencies, CGF also has an explicit mandate to support funding for Net Zero and facilitate the acquisition of intellectual property by Canadian enterprises as well as support the creation of new IP by Canadians and in Canada. However, CGF is also being allowed to directly fund industrial research and development to expand accessibility of existing green technology, even where private sector funding has not yet been committed.
Aerospace Development Canada (ADC) delivers direct funding, for R&D and skills in the aerospace sector, as well as providing assistance with training, talent attraction, retention, and initial funding for the aerospace industry. ADC is allowed to also directly fund university research and eduction for those working in the aerospace industry.
Automation & Robotics Canada (ARC) focuses on supporting wider use of automaton and robotics across the Canadian economy. ARC specifically allows companies to obtain a rebate for their M&E expenses, as well as receive a loan or a grant to modernise existing equipment, or replace, expand existing industrial assets. SMEs can recuperate up to 110 per cent of their M&E expenses with ARC, and over 125 per cent when it comes to automating their processes and installing newer software. Notably, ARC is set to operate in parallel with the Canada Digital Adoption Program.
Agri-Foods Canada (AFC) administers programs when it comes to agricultural and foods production, focusing on providing funding for agricultural research, and development of new products, chemicals, processing methods, and crops that utilise that are more environmentally suitable.
While major business assistance programmes remain within the realm of the federal ISED, IIC is allowed to administer those directly and change their structure, so long associate costs are borne by the IIC institutions themselves. Programmes immediately transferred under the responsibility of IIC include the Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP), the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP). Notably, however, IIC uses several other finical instruments to carry out its mandate:

• Income-Contingent Grants - grants funded directly by the CIB, with a subsequent return of funds. Unlike standard loans, ISGs are paid by the borrower as a share of their future income, until the debt is fully repaid - or written off by mutual agreement of both parties.
• Investment Supplementary Funding - provides financing provided by an IIC institution in proportion to investments from the private sector. Thus, for every $2 of private investment in a particular project or company, ISF guarantees at least $1 of investment from the CIB, subject to an appropriate agreement with the recipient company.
• Comprehensive Liabilities Guarantee - allow IIC to insure the assets of external investors - and the company itself - in a specific project or company in exchange for risk premiums from potential recipients. So, if the project will lead to losses for investors, IIC will return the funds spent.
• Outcome-Oriented Financing is the broadest possible definition of bank financial guarantees, which are fulfilled when certain conditions are met by the recipient. OOF may involve the direct financing, creation, write-off or investment, deferment, freezing - and so on - of the financial obligations of the borrower, in exchange for the achievement of certain indicators. First of all, we are talking about achieving predetermined growth rates of productivity - both labor and multifactorial - or such indicators as reducing the levels of debt burden, higher capital and science intensity, as well as interaction with external markets.
• Bridging Finance - bridge financing provided either in crisis situations or at an early stage of the project, when existing agreements with investors already exist, it is not possible to access short-term financing or funds necessary for the implementation of the initial stage of the project.
• Pooled Securitisation - financing of joint projects carried out by several small companies at once, with the accompanying distribution of risks. PS also covers the placement of assets on public markets.

Following the re-structuring the Government of Canada also expands funding for the Competition Bureau, and the Competition & Markets Commission of Canada. Namely, both are receiving additional functions, of overseeing the federal business assistance regime through the Canadian Business Assistance Office (CBAO) -- an independent standalone parliamentary institution. CBAO is tasked with evaluating the performance of business assistance programmes and institutions, including IIC and its member bodies, as well as any business investment made by the Government of Canada, though annual programme reviews and recommendations. Notably, the Office can order the Competition Bureau and the CMCC to investigate specific cases, as well as conduct joined programme reviews.

As on overriding set of criteria, the Office is set to evaluate how existing government programmes measure against increasing competition in a marketplace - being required to prioritise companies of 5 years of younger, as well as SMES - and foster finically independent enterprise - defined a profitability over the 5 year period excusing government assistance -, as well as help to achieve the Net Zero goal.

The Office is set to also maidan regional representation, aimed at scrutinising Regional Development Agencies, each branched aimed at a respective RDA, with a representative from CBAO and a respective provincial or territorial legislative assembly.
To further strengthen the accountability regime, the Budget amends respective acts relating to the Business Development Canada, Export Development Canada, National Research Council, Regional Development Agencies, and the Canada Infrastructure Development Canada's constituent units, as well as an additional overarching mandate for the Investment & Innovation Canada.
Thus, all the parties affected now have to comply with a "dual" mandate oversseen by the CBAO. Apart from fulfilling their original duty, such as infrastructure development, export promotion, or investment in green tech, all the agencies ought to remain finically profitable indecent of public support, defined all persistent surplus over the 5-year horizon.
In turn, the agencies are allowed to earn income through repayable grants, equity stakes, as well as acquisition of assets, such as intellectual property, and issuance of Canada Development & Innovation Bonds. CDIBs are set to be equated to the Government of Canada bills, with Ottawa directly guaranteeing the ability of an issuer to service their debts. Notably, each issuance has to be authorised by the IIC, before a respective institution can act on its own.

Additional Readings

https://taxpolicy.crawford.anu.edu.au/sites/default/files/publication/taxstudies_crawford_anu_edu_au/2022-03/complete_ace_wp_2022.pdf
https://mowatcentre.munkschool.utoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/publications/88_corporate_tax_reform.pdf
https://taxfoundation.org/benefits-of-full-immediate-expensing/
https://irpp.org/research-studies/cracking-canadas-productivity-conundrum/
https://irpp.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Facing-the-Facts-Reconsidering-Business-Innovation-Policy-in-Canada.pdf
https://politics.utoronto.ca/publication/innovation-in-real-places-strategies-for-prosperity-in-an-unforgiving-world/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6246044/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/case-national-investment-authority-henry-kopesky
https://maytree.com/wp-content/uploads/canada-working-age-supplement-report.pdf
https://capx.co/subsidies-are-no-way-to-support-business-but-there-is-a-better-alternative/
https://www.politico.com/news/2023/03/29/canada-u-s-clean-energy-ira-00089284
https://civitas.org.uk/pdf/SavingsBanks2010.pdf
https://maytree.com/wp-content/uploads/canada-working-age-supplement-report.pdf
https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2022/01/22/why-the-bias-for-debt-over-equity-is-hard-to-dislodge

Looks like the Bee saw my earlier post.
They call attention to the fact that, for the most part, people enjoyed outdoor dining during the pandemic. Today, the program that's supposed to make outdoor dining permanent is failing.
Personally, I'm dismayed that the Al Fresco program is inefficient, and I consider it a failure. The only thing it has accomplished is removing parklets and outdoor dining from the grid. Summer is here, and I would really love to enjoy dining on R street, or in the pop-up near Beast and Bounty. And who doesn't love the Rind's parklet? While I understand the need to change it to be ADA compliant and what not, its unfortunate that the Al Fresco program is prohibitively expensive to allow for the Rind to retro-fit their parklet. From the article:
"Yet $20,000 won’t cover retrofitting all patios to meet city codes. That’s one reason The Rind is removing its L Street patio, owner Sara Arbabian said, along with the strain it put on her small restaurant’s kitchen staff. To be compliant with the city’s new requirements, The Rind’s lifted wood patio needed a ramp or wheelchair lift, better drainage and to ensure that their structure didn’t stress the roots of a large tree that sat in the center. It’d cost $30,000-$40,00 to renovate on top of sunk costs".
The article mentions that some restaurants have managed to make the Al Fresco program work for them, but these restaurants seem like exceptions to the rule. At this point in the year, it's mind-boggling to me that we are still this far behind and no new parklets have been completed. Of the 85 restaurants that applied for the initial temporary grants, only one of them has applied for the formal program. This makes me think that the new program is prohibitively expensive.
Serious reform is needed here IMO.

Wish List: Teslas below, AA/SS/1S melee below, rare apparel/masks, or Vanguard Scout armor with +Strength/Cavalier
I still need the following Teslas: H/50c/25,,, Jug/50c/25,,, Med/50L/15r,,, Troub/50c/25
I still need the following AA/SS/1S melee: cultist blade,,, gulper smacker
Complete Trade List: (Thank you for your time browsing this huge list!!!)
FIXERS: AA/25/15r,,, AA/25/15v,,, AA/50c/15v,,, AA/50vhc/25,,, AA/50L/25,,, AA/AP/25,,, AA/E/Dur,,, Ari/25/15r,,, Ari/E/15r,,, Ari/E/25,,, B/25/15v,,, B/50L/25,,, BAP/25,,, Exe/25/25,,, Exe/50c/25,,, Exe/AP/25,,, Exe/E/25,,, F/50c/25,,, GouE/25,,, GS/50c/25,,, GS/E/25,,, H/50c/25,,, Jug/50c/25,,, Jug/AP/25,,, Junk/25/15r,,, Junk/50c/15v,,, Junk/50c/25,,, Junk/50L/25,,, Junk/AP/25,,, Junk/E/15v,,, Med/25/25,,, Med/50c/25,,, Med/AP/25,,, Mu/AP/25,,, MS/50c/25,,, MS/AP/25,,, N/AP/25,,, N/E/25,,, Q/25/15r,,, Q/25/15v,,, Q/AP/25,,, St/50c/25,,, St/AP/25,,, St/E/25,,, Su/50c/25,,, Su/AP/25,,, Su/E/25,,, T/50c/25,,, T/AP/25,,, TS/25/15r,,, TS/25/15v,,, TS/50vhc/25,,, TS/AP/25,,, V/AP/25,,, Z/25/25,,, Z/E/25
HANDMADES: AA/E/15v,,, Junk/25/15r,,, MS/E/25,,, Mu/E/25,,, Mu/50c/25,,, Q/50vhc/25
HEAVY WEAPONS: AA/25/90 AGL,,, AA/25/15r Cryolator,,, AA/25/90 Harpoon Gun,,, As/25A/90 Fatman,,, As/25/90 Gatling Plasma,,, B/E/Gho 50cal,,, B/25A/90 Cryolator,,, B/50L/90 Cryolator,,, B/25A/90 Missile Launcher,,, B/50vhc/90 Missile Launcher,,, B/50L/90 AGL,,, Exe/50c/15r Flamer,,, Exe/25A/90 Gatling Plas,,, Exe/E/25 LMG,,, F/50c/25 Cryolator,,, Q/25/15v LMG,,, Q/50L/90 Minigun,,, TS/25/15r Gatling Gun,,, TS/25/25 LMG,,, TS/E/25 Minigun,,, V/25/15r 50cal,,, V/25A/90 Cryolator,,, V/25/25 Gatling Gun,,, V/50L/90 Harpoon Gun,,, Z/E/90 LMG
MELEE: AA/SS/1S Death Tambo,,, AA/SS/1S Deathclaw Gauntlet,,, AA/40P/1S Gulper Smacker,,, AA/SS/1S Pole Hook,,, AA/50c/15v Power Fist,,, AA/SS/1S Super Sledge,,, Ari/SS/1S Shovel,,, Ari/SS/1S Sledgehammer,,, As/40P/1S Chainsaw,,, As/40P/1S Drill,,, B/SS/1S Deathclaw Gauntlet,,, B/SS/25 Gulper Smacker,,, B/SS/25 Meat Hook,,, B/SS/1S Power Fist,,, Exe/40P/25 Drill,,, Exe/50c/1S Power Fist,,, Ext/SS/1S Drill,,, F/40P/40 Chainsaw,,, GS/SS/1S Chainsaw,,, I/SS/1S Death Tambo,,, I/SS/1S Golf Club,,, I/SS/1S Super Sledge,,, Junk/SS/1S Assaultron Blade,,, Junk/SS/1S Security Baton,,, Mu/SS/1S Deathclaw Gauntlet,,, MS/SS/1S Shishkebab,,, Su/SS/1S Spear,,, Su/SS/1S Tire Iron,,, Troub/SS/1S Bowie Knife,,, Troub/SS/1S Golf Club,,, V/SS/1S Combat Knife,,, V/SS/1S Deathclaw Gauntlet,,, V/SS/1S Pole Hook,,, V/SS/1S Sledgehammer,,, Z/SS/1S Fire Axe,,, Z/SS/1S Knuckles,,, Z/SS/1S Pipe Wrench
RAILWAYS: AA/50c/25,,, AA/50vhc/25,,, AA/E/15v,,, AA/E/25,,, Ari/25/15r,,, B/50vhc/25,,, B/E/15r,,, B/E/90,,, F/50c/25,,, F/E/25,,, GS/25/25,,, GS/50c/25,,, H/50c/25,,, I/25/25,,, I/50c/25,,, Junk/E/25,,, Q/50L/90,,, St/50c/25,,, Su/E/25,,, TS/50L/25,,, TS/50vhc/25,,, TS/50c/15r,,, TS/AP/25,,, TS/E/Dur,,, V/25/25,,, V/50c/25,,, Z/E/90
TESLAS: AA/25/15r,,, AA/50L/15r,,, AA/AP/25,,, B/25/Gho,,, Exe/25/15r,,, Ext/25/15r,,, F/25/15r,,, I/25/15r,,, Q/25/250,,, Q/AP/25,,, TS/25/15r,,, TS/25/25,,, V/25/250,,, V/25/Dur,,, V/50L/15r,,, Z/25/15r
AA/25/25 Assaultron Head,,, AA/50c/15v Crossbow,,, AA/50L/25 Enclave Plasma Rifle,,, AA/25/25 Gamma Gun,,, AA/E/15r Hunting Rifle,,, B/AP/25 Compound Bow,,, B/25/25 Gauss Rifle,,, Exe/50c/25 Combat Rifle,,, Exe/50c/25 Double Barrel,,, Exe/E/25 Hunting Rifle,,, Exe/E/25 Lever Action,,, F/50c/15v Compound Bow,,, F/E/25 Double Barrel,,, F/50c/15v Thirst Zapper,,, GouE/25 Double Barrel,,, Gou25/25 Lever Action,,, GS/50c/25 Gamma Gun,,, Jug/E/25 Combat Rifle,,, Jug/50c/25 Laser Rifle,,, Junk/50c/25 Enclave Plasma Rifle,,, Mu/50c/25 Crossbow,,, N/25/25 Enclave Plasma Rifle,,, N/50c/25 Enclave Plasma Rifle,,, Q/50c/25 Assaultron Head,,, Q/25/15r Combat Shotgun,,, Q/25/15r Plasma Rifle,,, St/50c/25 Crossbow,,, St/E/25 Single Action Revolver,,, Su/25/25 Radium Rifle,,, TS/25/15r Combat Rifle,,, TS/50c/25 Combat Rifle,,, V/25/15r Enclave Plasma Rifle,,, V/50c/25 Bow,,, V/AP/25 Crossbow,,, V/50c/25 Gauss Rifle
ARMOR: Aristocrat's Heavy Robot left leg with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Assassin's Heavy Combat right leg with Strength/Sentinel,,, Assassin's Marine right leg with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Assassin's T-45 right leg with AP/Sentinel,,, Assassin's USA left arm with +25 Poison resist/Sentinel,,, Auto Stim Heavy Robot right leg with +25 Cryo resist/Sentinel,,, Auto Stim Raider Power left arm with AP/Sentinel,,, Auto Stim USA right arm with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Auto Stim USA right arm with AP/WWR,,, Auto Stim USA right leg with 7%LED/WWR,,, Auto Stim USA right leg with Strength/WWR,,, Bolstering FSA chest with 7%LED/WWR,,, Bolstering FSA left leg with AP/Sentinel,,, Bolstering Marine right arm with +25 Cryo resist/Sentinel,,, Bolstering Sturdy Combat left leg with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Bolstering Trapper chest with AP/Cavalier,,, Bolstering Trapper right arm with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Bolstering USA left arm with 7%LED/FDC,,, Bolstering USA left leg with slowed hungeWWR,,, Bolstering USA right leg with Agility/Cavalier,,, Bolstering USA right leg with Charisma/Sentinel,,, Chameleon FSA left leg with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Chameleon Heavy Leather right arm with AP/WWR,,, Chameleon Marine right leg with AP/HDT,,, Chameleon Raider Power right leg with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Chameleon Robot chest with 7%LED/WWR,,, Chameleon Trapper left leg with AP/Cavalier,,, Chameleon USA chest with 7%LED/Cavalier,,, Chameleon USA left arm with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Chameleon USA left leg with +25 Cryo resist/Sentinel,,, Chameleon USA right arm with 7%LED/WWR,,, Chameleon USA right leg with AP/FDC,,, Cloaking Raider Power right leg with 7%LED/WWR,,, Cloaking USA right arm with 7%LED/HDT,,, Exterminator's FSA right arm with 7%LED/Cavalier,,, Exterminator's FSA right leg with 7%LED/Cavalier,,, Ghoul Slayer's FSA right leg with AP/Cavalier,,, Life Saving Combat left leg with AP/WWR,,, Life Saving Trapper left leg with AP/Sentinel,,, Life Saving Trapper right leg with 7%LED/Cavalier,,, Life Saving USA left arm with AP/Cavalier,,, Life Saving USA right arm with +25 Poison resist/Sentinel,,, Mutant's Excavator left arm with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Mutant's FSA chest with 7%LED/WWR,,, Mutant's FSA left leg with 7%LED/WWR,,, Nocturnal Excavator right leg with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Nocturnal Marine right arm with AP/Cavalier,,, Nocturnal USA right leg with AP/Sentinel,,, Overeater's Combat left arm with +25 Cryo resist/Cavalier,,, Overeater's Excavator right leg with Luck/Cavalier,,, Overeater's FSA chest with Endurance/Sentinel,,, Overeater's FSA right arm with Luck/Sentinel,,, Overeater's Heavy Combat left arm with 7%LED/JWR,,, Overeater's Heavy Metal left leg with Strength/Sentinel,,, Overeater's Heavy Raider left arm with 7%LED/Cavalier,,, Overeater's Heavy Raider left leg with Charisma/WWR,,, Overeater's Heavy Robot chest with +25 Rad resist/Sentinel,,, Overeater's Heavy Robot left leg with Agility/WWR,,, Overeater's Marine left leg with slowed hungeWWR,,, Overeater's Marine right leg with +25 Fire resist/Sentinel,,, Overeater's Metal left leg with +25 Cryo resist/Sentinel,,, Overeater's Robot right leg with Endurance/Sentinel,,, Overeater's Trapper left leg with +25 Fire resist/Sentinel,,, Overeater's Trapper right arm with Luck/WWR,,, Overeater's T-60 left arm with +25% Env resist/WWR,,, Overeater's T-60 left arm slowed hungeWWR,,, Overeater's USA chest with +25 Cryo resist/HDT,,, Overeater's USA chest with Intelligence/Sentinel,,, Overeater's USA left arm with +25 Poison resist/Sentinel,,, Overeater's USA left leg with Agility/WWR,,, Overeater's USA right leg with slowed hungeFDC,,, Overeater's Wood left arm with 7%LED/Cavalier,,, Regenerating Heavy Leather right leg with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Regenerating Heavy Raider right arm with AP/Sentinel,,, Troubleshooter's Excavator right arm with 7%LED/Cavalier,,, Troubleshooter's Marine left arm with AP/Sentinel,,, Troubleshooter's Sturdy Metal right leg with AP/Sentinel,,, Unyielding FSA chest with Intelligence/Dur,,, Unyielding FSA left arm with Charisma/Cavalier,,, Unyielding FSA left leg with AP/FDC,,, Unyielding Heavy Combat chest with Strength/HDT,,, Unyielding Heavy Combat right arm with +25 Poison resist/JWR,,, Unyielding Heavy Combat right leg with 7%LED/Less limb dam,,, Unyielding Heavy Leather right arm with AP/HDT,,, Unyielding Marine right leg with +25 Fire resist/WWR,,, Unyielding Metal chest with AP/HDT,,, Unyielding Metal right leg with AP/Cavalier,,, Unyielding Robot right arm with Agility/Sentinel,,, Unyielding Sturdy Leather left leg with 7%LED/Sentinel,,, Unyielding Sturdy Metal chest with AP/WWR,,, Unyielding Sturdy Metal left arm with +25 Rad resist/Sentinel,,, Unyielding Trapper right arm with 7%LED/HDT,,, Unyielding USA chest with Charisma/Cavalier,,, Unyielding USA left arm with +25% Env resist/Cavalier,,, Unyielding USA left leg with Charisma/Cavalier,,, Unyielding USA right leg with +25 Poison resist/JWR,,, Unyielding Wood chest with Luck/Cavalier,,, Vanguard's Excavator right leg with Intelligence/Cavalier,,, Vanguard's FSA left arm with slowed hungeSentinel,,, Vanguard's Heavy Leather right arm with 7%LED/HDT,,, Vanguard's Heavy Robot right arm with 7%LED/HDT,,, Vanguard's Marine right arm with AP/HDT,,, Vanguard's Sturdy Robot left arm with AP/Sentinel,,, Vanguard's Sturdy Robot right leg with 7%LED/WWR,,, Vanguard's USA chest with Luck/Sentinel,,, Vanguard's USA left arm with Intelligence/Sentinel,,, Vanguard's USA right arm with AP/Cavalier,,, Vanguard's Wood chest with Strength/Sentinel,,, Weightless USA left arm with Strength/Sentinel,,, Weightless USA right leg with AP/Cavalier,,, Zealot's USA right arm with AP/WWR,,, Zealot's USA right leg with AP/WWR
PLANS: Alien Blaster,,, Assault rifle,,, Barbed walking cane,,, Baseball bat rocket,,, Baseball bat searing puncturing rocket,,, Bear arm,,, Bear arm heavy mod,,, Boxing glove lead lining,,, Camo Backpack,,, Cave cricket tube,,, Deathclaw gauntlet,,, Dense marine armor torso,,, Dense trapper armor torso,,, Fire station bell,,, Flannel shirt & jeans,,, Hatchet electro fusion,,, Junkyard fountain,,, Machete sacrificial blade,,, Meat Tenderizer,,, Nuka girl area rug,,, Pepper Shaker,,, Pitchfork flamer,,, Protective lining marine underarmor,,, Protective lining raider underarmor,,, Puncturing pole hook,,, Radioactive barrel,,, Raw cement barricade,,, Scorchbeast queen plushie,,, Scorched tube,,, Shielded lining casual underarmor,,, Shielded lining marine underarmor,,, Shielded lining raider underarmor,,, Ski sword skate blade,,, Skiing outfit,,, Sledgehammer heavy searing sharp rocket,,, Small vault girl statue,,, Snallygaster plushie,,, Spiked walking cane,,, The Fixer,,, T-60 BOS knight paint,,, TV Aquarium,,, Ultracite emergency protocols,,, Undershirt & jeans,,, Vintage water cooler,,, WV state bird rug,,, Yao Guai tube,,, Cutting fluid recipe,,, Fasnacht donut recipe,,, Fasnacht sausage recipe,,, Healing salve Cranberry Bog recipe,,, Healing salve Mire recipe,,, Formula P recipe,,,Stimpak Diffuser recipe,,, Tato salad recipe
APPAREL: Asylum Uniform Pink,,, Clean Spacesuit,,, Emmett Mountain hazmat suit,,, Garrahan Foreman Outfit and Helmet,,, Grey Fishermans Overalls,,, Hunter's Long Coat,,, Longshoreman Outfit,,, Skiing red and green outfit,,, Straight Jacket Clean,,, ,, Winter Jacket and Jeans
CHEMS: Addictol: 180,,, Berry Mentats: 642,,, Buffout: 1515,,, Calmex: 535,,, Daddy-O: 1063,,, Day Tripper: 793,,, Disease Cure: 415,,, Mentats: 1000,,, Overdrive: 542,,, Psycho: 2803,,, Psychobuff: 1363,,, Psychotats: 1208,,, X-cell: 342
FOOD: Canned meat stew: 65,,, Pepper: 2528,,, Salt: 929,,, Spices: 1407,,, Sugar Bombs(w/rads): 380
MODS: Enclave plasma aligned flamer mod,,, Enclave plasma aligned sniper barrel mod,,, Enclave plasma severe beta wave tuner

So I've had a really bad experience dealing with reslife for the past month and a half, and I noticed that throughout the whole ordeal, the biggest problem was the complete lack of information about how this whole summer housing system works and what to do/not do. So I thought I would write this in case someone is/will be in the same position I was.
Context: I'm an out of state student working on campus full time (no summer classes). I do not have a car, and do not have anywhere to stay over the summer apart from on-campus housing.
Brief timeline of how pre-summer and summer housing is supposed to look like (for those taking a summer class) (if for some reason someones looking at this next year, these dates are for summer 2023):
Mid-end of April: apply for housing May 8: notification of presummer housing via email. May 11: (normal move out by 10am) presummer students stay in current dorm until further notice May 15-17: get 2nd email with specific housing assignment with instructions to move into new dorm asap May 17, 12pm: must be completely moved out of old dorm. Your pre-summer housing is the same as your summer housing.
For those who are NOT taking summer classes but need housing. You will NOT be guaranteed housing. If you are working/doing research on campus make sure to talk with your boss/prof asap to get them to communicate with reslife and get you housing. This process will take at least a week, more like 2, so make sure to make arrangements earlier rather than later.
Other tips/things to note: 1. Do not trust what reslife says on the phone. If they tell you information verbally, there is like a 70% chance that information is either not completely true or just a blatant lie. I called reslife about twice a week for a solid month to get more info about whats going on and each time they gave me different conflicting information. Long story short, dont trust what they say unless you have written proof

1. Make sure to have the RA on duty number saved. I lost swipe access twice during my pre-summer stay outside of reslife hours (they close at 5pm) and the RA saved me and helped get me back swipe access
   
2. Make arrangements to move from one dorm to another. Reslife doesnt care if you dont have a car. They dont care if you are broke and cant afford to uber back and forth to move all your stuff. So make sure you find a way to move your stuff before you actually need to move.
   
3. On the regular move-out day (May 11) if at all possible, stay in your dorm. There will be people coming in and out, people asking to see your proof of pre-summer, RAs checking rooms are empty, etc. Make sure to be there so that in case something happens, you will know right away. Also if you live in a suite, make sure to take all of your stuff from the bathroom and keep it in your room together with the rest of your stuff. A few of my things disappeared when they came in and cleared out the bathroom (my suitemates didnt take them, the stuff was still there when they left, but gone when the staff came through to clean the place).
   
4. Stock up on food (unless ur already in an apartment or something). Dining halls will be closed from May 11th onwards, most likely you won't have access to a kitchen to cook your own food until the 17th. So unless you're planning on eating out and travelling to get food every day, stock up while you can.
   

I hope this helps. I might edit this in the future to add things if I think of it.

Hello Reddit!
I am a very small-time streameVTuber who tries to post Let's Play content. Sadly, I have a massive backlog, which I struggle to whittle down with a full-time job.
I am looking for an ongoing regular editor for either shorts/long forms/clipper, happy to credit work, but sadly it won't be a paid gig.
Myself & My Content

• Very small-time Vtuber
• Tries to do quality streams - Feel free to check out my YouTube @Maosiie (unable to link due to autobot)
• Variety of games - rarely stick to one genre
• Bubbly and relaxed. But attempts to stick to schedules for consistency.
• Aiming to upscale in near future with some ongoing works in the background.
• Friendly and flexible.

Looking for

• An ongoing regular editor - shorts/long forms/clipper
• Happy for you to try new things, or do it in a style that suites you. But, would like some basic standards of editing & schedule.
• Understanding that there is no funding, apart from crediting you for your work.

Bit of a long shot! Feel free to DM me, I will respond within 24-48 hours max.
Looking forward to a fruitful relationship!

https://turtletimeline.com/climate-resilient-gardens-future-proof-your-landscape/

The importance of climate-resilient landscapes

By Victoria Cummins / Turtle Timeline
In today’s world, it’s hard to ignore the undeniable reality of climate change. The impacts of rising temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events, ocean acidification, and changes in species behavior are just a few ecological changes that have become very apparent. We now find ourselves in a time where adaptation is not just a choice but a necessity, especially as younger generations come of age.
That’s why creating a climate-resilient garden or landscape is not only a deep and profound way to take care of the earth, but a necessity for our survival as a species.
A climate-resilient landscape offers us a proactive and practical way to navigate the uncertainties of our changing climate, while also reconnecting in ways that may have been lost from the generations before us.
By prioritizing ecological balance, and conserving resources, climate-resilient landscapes provide sustainable solutions that benefit humans and the intricate web of life on Earth. In this article, we will explore and delve into the three key elements that define resilient landscapes, in hopes that we can translate these into our home gardens and beyond.

Storing water in the landscape: efficient water management techniques

Water is life, and without it, we wouldn’t exist. Through large-scale industrialization and the misuse of water, the hydrological cycle has been broken in many places across the world. Without concerted efforts to repair and restore the hydrological cycle, the scarcity of water will persist and worsen.
In the garden, we are presented with the opportunity to work with water rather than depleting it from a local fresh source. By employing efficient water management techniques, we can transform our gardens into regenerative and abundant havens that not only conserve water but also begin to restore the greater watershed.
Rainwater harvesting stands as a cornerstone of water sustainability, allowing us to capture the gift of rainfall and channel it where it’s needed most. A common phrase used in permaculture and greater water harvesting communities is: “Slow it, Spread, it, Sink it.”
Embracing the practices of systems such as permaculture, we can design our landscapes to include techniques such as swales and terraces, strategically directing and retaining water to nourish our plants and replenish the groundwater reserves.
Store water in containers such as rain cisterns and apply materials that make use of local waste streams and store water in the soil like wood chips. Select drought-tolerant plant species that reduce evaporation and minimize and even eliminate the need for additional irrigation.
Work with the rain instead of allowing it to run directly into roadways and farm fields. Collectively through these mindful approaches, we become stewards of water, recognizing its life-giving ability and ensuring its responsible use in the garden – and beyond!

Soil health: building a strong foundation

Today you might hear someone call soil “dirt”, but the truth is, our soil is so much more than that. All life on Earth can be traced back to the minerals found in our soil. From the tiniest microorganisms to the grandest trees and biggest creatures, the essential elements and nutrients provided by soil minerals are the building blocks that sustain and support life. It’s estimated that a single teaspoon of healthy soil can contain billions of microorganisms!
On top of this, the healthiest and most successionally advanced ecosystems on our planet are characterized by the presence of thriving and rich soil. In the garden, we can mimic these same environments by enriching our soil with practices such as:

• Layering organic matter such as leaves, food scraps, manure, wood ash, grass clippings, cardboard, straw, and plant matter from the garden
• Composting food scraps and other commonly wasted natural materials
• Minimizing soil disturbance with methods like No-Dig Gardening
• Designing and choosing plants that accumulate soil nutrients in their leaves such as comfrey, borage, and apple
• Design and choosing plants that fix nitrogen into the soil such as alder, Siberian pea shrub, or clover

By feeding your soil you are in turn feeding your plants, which is a much different concept than the modern idea of adding fertilizer sourced from across the world solely to “feed” your plants. What we really need to do is feed our soil, which will establish a robust foundation that heals through water infiltration, carbon sequestration, and overall ecosystem health.

Choosing plants that allow for life to thrive

On our journey to future-proof our gardens for the challenges of climate change, the selection of plants takes on a huge role in cultivating an environment that fosters resilience and enables life to thrive.
You have probably seen a traditional garden with a lawn that contains only ornamental flowers and requires many inputs such as fertilizer, pesticides, and water in order to sustain itself. Outside of some pollination and aesthetic beauty, this ecosystem takes much more from the earth (and from us!) than it gives back, depleting instead of enriching the landscape.
With a more mindful approach, we can choose plants with characteristics that are adaptable to changing climatic conditions, capable of withstanding droughts, and resilient to extreme weather events. In your garden, choose plants with some of the following in mind:

Edible plants

Our modern food system is broken. By integrating edible plants into our gardens, it not only offers the joy of homegrown food but also enhances our self-sufficiency and food security.
Cultivating a diverse array of perennial edible plants, from fruits and vegetables to herbs and medicinal plants, we not only nourish ourselves but break the unhealthy patterns of supporting large-scale, mono-cropped, and industrialized agriculture. We rely on ourselves and in turn work with our neighbors and communities to trade what’s available.

Native plants

Choosing native plants for our gardens allows us to embrace the inherent wisdom of our local ecosystem. Native plants have coevolved with the regional climate, soil conditions, and wildlife, making them well-adapted to the local environment and known to thrive. They often serve multiple functional roles as well such as fertilizing the soil, providing food, and pollination services.
Incorporating native plants, we create habitats that support local biodiversity, provide food and shelter for native wildlife, and restore the ecological balance that is crucial for the long-term health of our landscapes.

Drought-tolerant plants

Amidst the increasing water scarcity challenges posed by climate change, selecting drought-tolerant plants is a wise choice for our gardens as it means we have to water less. These plants have evolved mechanisms to thrive with minimal water inputs, reducing and eliminating the need for irrigation and conserving precious water resources.

Providing a refuge for wildlife

Our gardens can serve as sanctuaries, offering a refuge for wildlife in the midst of urbanization and habitat loss. Many species on the brink of extinction have been observed to migrate toward more rich ecosystems that better suit their needs.
Intentionally including plants that provide food, shelter, and nesting sites for birds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial creatures, we create havens of biodiversity. The bonus of that is experiencing the joy that these creatures bring while in our presence.

Plants with multiple uses

Plants with multiple uses are an invaluable addition to our climate-resilient gardens. By selecting plants that offer various benefits beyond their aesthetic appeal, we maximize the productivity and functionality of our landscapes. These plants may provide edible fruits, leaves, or roots for our sustenance, medicinal properties for healing, fibers for crafting, or even nitrogen fixation to enrich the soil.
Embracing the concept of multi-purpose plants allows us to optimize space and resources, ensuring that every plant contributes to the overall resilience and sustainability of our garden ecosystem.

Conclusion: creating your climate-resilient garden

The journey of creating a climate-resilient garden transcends mere gardening—it becomes an act of profound stewardship and care for ourselves, the land, and the generations yet to come.
Keeping the principles of climate adaptation, soil health, native and drought-tolerant plants, and mindful plant choices at the forefront of our garden design, we embark on a transformative path. We become guardians of the Earth’s vitality, cultivating spaces that nurture not only our present selves but also the future versions of who we will become, as well as the legacy we leave for the next generations.
The rewards of these conscious gardening practices extend far beyond the beauty and bounty we witness in our gardens—they are imprinted on the very fabric of our existence, intertwining with the threads of our interconnectedness and echoing through time.
For more on resources and inspiration projects that are currently gardening with these concepts in mind, see below:

• 5 Most Epic Earth Healing Projects
• India’s Water Revolution Series: The Biggest Permaculture Project on Earth
• No-Dig Gardening Explained in 5 Minutes
• The Ultimate Guide to No-Dig Gardening
• 5 Tips For Building Healthy Soil

The art of gardening in the Pacific Northwest: how to create a thriving garden

Last month i rescued a 5 lined skink from his own poor life choices (larry is obsessed with getting in my basement and almost dieing). After saving him from near death this last time i decided id keep him in a long terrarium.
Hes got a nice setup, hot side, cooler side...sunning rock cave, 2 water soaks, etc....but food wise im concerned.
Ive been feeding him crickets, initially it was small crickets, but i got him larger ones but i keep getting told conflicting things.... i was told he should only eat every 2 or 3 days or so, and to not feed him meal worms....i was told live food only (which checks out, he doesnt seem to like preserved crickets) ... i was told conflictingly to feed him small and large crickets, as well as different things as to if i should leave the crickets in his terrarium (which is stocked with plants for his enrichment and them to munch on)....
I also dont know how much to feed him, last week he downed 10 large crickets in 5 days so like hes a hungry little guy... ill take any feeding advice i can get here.

Discord Username: Art#2261
Character Name and House: Damon Redwyne
Age: 18
Appearance: This handsome fella
Gift: Autodidactic
Skills: Beastmaster (e), Courtly (e), Scholar (e)
Talent(s): Hunting, Gathering, Tracking, Singing
Starting Title(s): Ser, Scion of the Arbor
Starting Location: King's Landing
Family Tree: Redwynes
Alternate Characters: Aegon Targaryen
Character Name and House: Myles Farrow
Age: 21
Appearance: Tall and handsome, brown hair
Gift: Champion
Skills: Swords, Knightly, Defender
Talent(s): Hunting, fishing, survival
Starting Title(s): Ser, Scion of House Farrow
Starting Location: King's Landing
Timeline
189 AC - Damon is born to Robert Redwyne and Denyse Hightower, the younger of a pair including his twin brother Paxter.
195 AC - As years pass, it becomes clear that Damon neither nor ever will take any interest in any sort of martial pursuits, instead indulging in the arts, literature, and poetry. The wealthy Lord of the Arbor chooses to spoil his youngest child, bowing to nearly every whim and demand and indulging him in his chosen hobbies.
199 AC - Damon develops a great liking towards animals and their care. His family, again, allows it and funds lessons as well as a small preserve for various birds and small animals found around the island.
204 AC - Damon befriends Myles Farrow, a ward from a minor vassal family in service to the Arbor. Myles attempts to teach Damon swordplay and various martial techniques but fails.
205 AC - Damon acquires for himself a furry red-eyed white cat from the far east that he names 'Blood', as well as a colorful parrot from the Summer Islands he calls 'Wyne'.
207 AC - Damon travels with his family to the festivities in King's Landing, not caring much for politics but more than happy to indulge in gossip and good food, as well as to support his friend Myles in the tourney competitions. He is also knighted by Myles on the way to the capital after winning a bet.