Best moose hunting district in montana

Now, Poborubarumu conceptually is pretty unique and cool, even among the Frontier monsters i've fought. He's a walking whale that can play songs to buff himself and whatnot, almost like a living Hunting Horn. His buffs even affect whatever's around him, including the player and whatever CPU companions they have, which is pretty nice and adds some dynamic to the fight...which doesn't mean much because his fight is abysmal.
Constant tremors and shockwave attacks that send you flying for most of your health even with proper gear and health buffs, very frequent hard to dodge attacks from the front, making attacking the tail near exclusively the only viable option for a Blademaster that i know of unless you constantly block...the fight would just be another annoying but managable check off on the list if this was all. But the reason this post was made was his healing. His heal buff applies slow regen to your party...but also to himself. And "slow" for a monster with a large health pool like him means your DPS needs to both naturally be very high and you need to be at your A game to outpace it...
Even then he'll seemingly have undone a large chunk of your damage so far. I know because i fought him for almost 30 minutes, and i kill even high health monsters in HR5 in 20 minutes tops, and he didn't even limp. I spammed charge slashes at lv2 whenever i could, and i have Focus+2 and the Resolute Faith GS, one of the best in HR5 for it's raw, sharpness, element and paralysis being very high. I also carted to the most stupid situations, though that might be on me for using a slow weapon like Greatsword. I'll try again with SnS and see if i do better, but i still never want to fight this thing again after this. The fact this is a Key Quest too just rubs salt in the wound...anyway thanks for reading, if you have any tips please tell

After all theses month of scouting, we can clearly see a trend and not many people will like what I'm going to say
Currently, we see two type of user who use A.I generate softwares:

1. Hobbyist, great defendant of the "A.I will put artists out of jobs" usually using only PROMPT to generate images. (midjourney, dall-e, etc) -- they usually generate the most standard shit, always hunting for the "best prompt" possible, copying all trends, etc. Yes, usually boring, souless.
2. Artists, using their design sense, taste, trained eye, fundamentals to create A.I assisted image. They design all their shit themselves (3D, painting, you name it), and they use A.I to pixel-perfect it. (stable diffusion, control net, etc)

I've seen numerous case recently on twitter from Japanese artists on the latter category and I was absolutely blown away by their results.
Current artists are actually the true winner of this era. Because A.I is technically excellent, you don't have to train 10+ years to achieve technically good digital art but I recently understood that you still need a shitloads of fundamentals to make a "good image" and this is where hobbyst, dev, and usually most of what they call "tech-bro" are completely off with their narratives.
Lately, I have growing respect from people being legacy designer and using their skill + A.I to create something, people using full prompt to generate images are going to be as disappointed as much as when NFT people said that NFT were going to change art forever. Full prompting won't change much.
I personally think with everything we've seen since the beginning of this era that full prompting images will unfortunately mostly remain in the hobbyist zone while open source A.I + ControlNet will elevate current artists like crazy as they use it as a real tool, as an addition to an already complex technical workflow (3d, painting, sketches, etc)

I mostly play solo and almost never hit the team toggle. When I play in teams it's with my friends. I get killed a lot since I am alone and I get teams of 3-4 members shooting at me all the time so I do my best to make it hard for them to get me or frustrating when they manage to kill me.
My most beloved thing is selling everything I have on me and then buying an exfil. If anything significant remains I buy useless stuff that is easy to find and not saleable like armor plates. So upon getting me, they find an empty bag and in the meantime, they lose their time and expose their selves to my or bots' fire so they get their ammo and plates reduced. A few days ago I managed to get away and the whole team died when caught in the radioactive cloud and got too much bots' fire on them. It was pretty fun to see them dying while I was getting away in my purchased exfil helicopter.
Another thing I do is hide in plain sight. I won't say what I do and what places I choose but it is nothing involving cheats or anything game-illegal. I had a big laugh while in the Fortress area. They were passing right next to me and couldn't realize my location while I was listening to their comms and knew exactly how bad they were looking.
So how do you make your hunters' life miserable and the hunt not worthy?

I don't know about you but everything about singularity makes me excited. The visual appeal of his cybernetic/alien look is something I feel like everyone appreciates and it feels fresh for dbd, as does his power. This was the first ptb I ever played and I'm so glad I did. By the end of it I spent a good 10 hours learning camera control and how to properly use the overclocking.
And honestly I found it to be one of the most rewarding and interesting ways to play. I felt like I had 10 eyes and I could be anywhere in the map, and they know if a camera is around that is a chance they have to take or emp it. And now with the emp box nerf which I think is fair as 7 was way too many to protect with cameras, now you can put your pods a little more strategically.
But I found his best strength was using the bipods on the fly, chasing and cresting a point where they have to get marked. And unless they have an emp it creates some fun chases and pallet breaking scenarios that survivors can't really avoid.
But before this gets too long I'll cut it now, I just can't wait for Tuesday. The anniversary is just a cherry on top, and I will be there hour 1 for singularity to hunt you down. I for one hope that you escape, because meatball takes no prisoners.

The four famous clans of Amadahai, its ladies and their sons, gathered together in the common hall of what people knew as "the palatial district". The core of the palace had overgrown the square, ring-like shape as new additions were built along the perimeter through the years. The symmetry of the structure was broken to accomodate the growing clans – and their growing entourage.
Half of the morning had already gone by, but the common hall was lit with oil candles and the glow of a central brazier: the sky outside was flat and grey, and whichever light filtered from the courtyard and the high windows on the outer walls of the palace were not enough to illuminate the faces of the clanpeople. They had taken their places on the ground, each kneeling on a soft cushion filled with cattail fluff, and would go on discussing as the morning went on.
The neighbouring village, Pabarha by the pond-of-many-lotuses, had refused to repay their debt. Two years before, the clans of Amadahai had come to their aid and provided them with plentiful rôdo in times of need; when the time came to hold their part of the bargain, however, they sent an empty-handed emissary with words of regret, conveying their intention to break the contract.
The youngest of the mothers present unfurled a thin stretch of birchbark where the two parties had impressed their promises, marked by five symbols. On top, was the picture of an empty granary, Pabarha's most pressing issue at the time. Below, their two choices: an empty granary and a farmhand working the fields or a full granary and a man at rest. At the bottom, two sigils representing the two parties participating in the exchange: the lotuses that gave their name to Pabarha, the village of the perjurers, and a bull atop a pecan tree, mythical symbol of Amadahai.
"When I drew those symbols," The matriarch said, as she passed the scroll around for all to see, "The terms of our exchange were no less clear than they are today. We saved Pabarha from a failed harvest: in return they had to either return the rôdo as soon as they could or would provide a number of farmhands to our city, for the entire period of their indebtedness." It was a fair exchange and, for a time, Pabarha had consented.
The farmhands were sent to Amadahai and they had soon proved themselves to be a profitable investment. They lived in wooden houses appositely built near the paddies and returned to their village every half moon to visit their wives and their families. That arrangement had continued for little more than a year. "The farmhands left four days ago and have not returned to their work – instead, what do we find? A young emissary has come in their stead, demanding Pabarha be allowed to forego her promises." The birchbark sheet had made the rounds amongst the reunited clanpeople and returned to her. "I ask the other mothers leave."
They women silently consented and the youngest, the writer of the contract, threw the birchbark onto the brazier. The mothers had forfeited their right to be a part of that conversation and, from then on, it would be the sons, not the mothers, to hold the first and last word. The clan had no other choice: promises had been forgotten, debts had not been repaid and that intricate tangle of promises, favours, debts and credits could be put in grave danger by such a simple refusal.
It did not happen often that the men gathered inside the high house took decisions without words of approval or lamentations from the elder women of the clans. It had never happened for Cebecajamân, a man who had not lived through his sixteenth year of age and was only recently invited to sit at the councils as one of the leaders nephews. He sat straight and looked around him as the tower of smoke emitted from the burning birchbark dissolved before them. Wordlessly, the women left the room.
For a moment, the men remained silent, reflecting on the weight of that moment – that meant war was the next solution, the only solution. Phazjedjei, Cebecajamân's uncle took his stick and his pipe, which was hidden in a pouch tied under his cape, and began smoking. The others followed his example. Six men, three uncles and three nephews, reflected and smoked. There would be a precise order to how they would speak and, as the youngest man admitted to that assembly, Cebecajamân would go first.
He cleared his throat – the pipe was still a little too much for him – and gathered the courage to speak: "Does... does that means we will have to kill them?"
_____
There were few places kinder than Amadahai on a spring morning. The sun would tickle the surface of the lake, then rise high – but never too hot – to the top of the sky. Those were the sweetest hours: the bright light streamed in like metal from Kamābarha, the same brassy copper that covered the points of Cebecajamân's arrows.
He was counting them, one by one, making sure his quiver was full and none of his precious arrows had been lost since his last tally. Most of the other men in his band would have stone arrowheads, others red copper, but that fine orange-gold one was destined only for Cebecajamân and the other clan-men, their leaders. No arrow was missing, so he took his quiver of woven cattail stalks, his bow and walked to meet the other men. As he passed under the passion fruit tree outside his home, he marvelled at the irony of life: preparing an attack as nature bloomed so beautifully.
He met them at the edge of the city, beyond the mound, where the groves began. Saying "a full unit of men" was something, but seeing them in person, each with his own quiver and bow, each with a straw, padded coat, was rather impressive. He greeted them with respect as he walked over the field to join the other members of his clan. There were three leaders for the attack, Cebecajamân was the youngest, but by far the best shot; then, there was Jajabadojôho, his cousin who was very quick and nimble, and Ineme, a young uncle who belonged to their same generation and who was well respected by the other men. He knew very little of the other men. There were some minor clanmen, children of true clanmen who had no claim to leadership: they often were better warriors, as they had much spare time and filled their days with pigeon hunts and competitions – Cebecajamân, was very envious about that; then, there were young men from the city: the son of the fisherman, the nephew of the butcher, the cousin of the man who sold the best preserves at the market; the rest were farmers who normally tended orchards or paddies and had been called to lend their bows to fight for the honour of their leaders. The best amongst them had been selected, and a hundred forty four good men would be more than enough to put a stop to Pabarha's defiance and dishonesty. As their Kabaima brought them pouches filled with crabapple sâna, the first spring wine, the three discussed the possibilities of a true battle.
"They are going to surrender immediately." Ineme said. There was no sign of worry or doubt on his face. He cocked an arrow absent mindedly as he spoke. "Then, we will either take the grain we need or bring them to the mothers and make a new contract." Swoosh! The arrow hit the the tree before them, which had been coloured with ochre to mark the height of a man. If that tree was a man, Ineme had hit his shoulder.
"I don't know, Ineme," Said Jajabadojôho, "They have the men, and the village is marshy all around and protected, on a hill."
"They do not have the number Cijajabo, and, considering they are not sending the grain they owe, they must be in dire straits – mother said so."
"Even then, they are proud people. They will not surrender without a fight. Cicebe," He said, turning towards the youngest, whose thoughts were rushin in hundreds of different directions and had been very quiet until that moment. "What do you think?"
He looked at his cousin, unsure about what he would say. Something strange and horrible was happening inside of Cebecajamân. Half of his soul dreaded the impending battle, and hoped that the young man facing them, from above the hill, would see how many they were and set down their weapons; his other half, however, had an ardent desire to be tested, to win, to prove himself before the mothers. He was a good shot – a great shot, in fact – and would stop at nothing in the face of danger. He wanted to fight, he wanted to stop his enemies from fooling the mothers of his clan – was that a bad thing? They said men were more impulsive than women, Always ready to fight rather than to discuss, and that the way of the mothers was the most virtuous. But Cebecajamân was a man, and there was little he could do about it.
He cocked his brass arrow and shot it across the field to hit the same tree his uncle had hit before him. His arrow burrowed into the wood just above the other one, where Ineme had intended to hit: the middle of the man-tree's head.
"Either way, I'm ready."
_____
They attacked immediately after sundown. They moved silently through the forest first, getting more and more quiet as the presence of the city became more noticeable. As they hid in the forest waiting for the right moment to strike, hearing the low voices of the Pabarhans, smelling the smoke of their fires, the fragrances of their dinners, Cebecajamân's heart pounded like never before.
"The heart of the fearful and a pigeon by the river..."
The battle ended before it could become too bloody, but Cebecajamân killed his first man that night. He would remember that blood he spilled forever, necessary blood, to remind everyone of the honour of his house, the honour of the promises the famous clans of Amadahai presided over – an honour he'd defend until his last day.

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I’ve never actually posted on Reddit so I’m not sure if this is the right group. I just wanted to get some opinions and see if anyone else feels the way I do. Btw I’m not the best writer.
To give some background, I (22M) grew up in an East Asian immigrant low income (17K/year) household where my parents constantly fought throughout my childhood. As I grew up, I always saw money as the solution to all of my problems so that became my main motivation to doing well in life. I realized around age 15 that I didn’t have enjoyment anymore in my life.
As life progressed on, I ended up attending an out of district high school which was the best of the state then moved away and graduated from the best public university in the country on a full ride scholarship. I’m now spending my summer school and work free as I saved up a good amount of money to not have to work until I start my full time job. Right now, I’m in a pretty good place in terms of everything but I still don’t seem to enjoy it.
I have plenty of friends, romantic interests, hobbies ect that I do just because I know it’s what I’m supposed to do. When I’m with friends I can laugh or make jokes but when I start to realize my smile starts to shrink and I have to replace it with a fake one just to make sure people know I am having a good time when I’m not anymore. I have had stable long term relationships that have last years but the downfall of most of them has been that I don’t seem like I’m into the relationship anymore when I know I should be because they were what I wanted . The only time I continue to try in a relationship is when it’s close to being over because I know I’m supposed to and owe it to the person for giving me the years or months of their life. I never talk about how I’m feeling to them because then they’ll actually believe they’re the issue when most of them have been great. I always have new hobbies and as I realize they’re not bringing me any joy i move onto the next.
I feel like I’m doing everything that I’m supposed to do but every night and throughout the day I ask why I’m still here and what my purpose is. I sometimes pray that I’ll just pass the next day so that I do not have to fake my enjoyment anymore. I’ve thought about ending it myself but I have a few goals I want to achieve and I do not want to die a failure. I do not want people to think that I couldn’t handle life but rather I’m waiting for everything to be perfect before I actually do. To me, every check on my goal list is one step closer to the end and that’s honestly all I look forward to.
I’m not sure if I’m just going through some really long phase in my life because I know on paper my life should be great now. I could really use some advice to get out of this feeling. Im sure I left some details out but feel free to ask.

What follows here is obviously a myth, but the thing is, this story is not just a meme, but is taken seriously by many, and has a long and very real history.
Time for the story of the evil black scientist that created white people.
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The story of Yakub comes from a black supremist / seperatist religious group known as the Nation of Islam (NOI). They have a paramilitary wing known as the Fruit of Islam (FOI).
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The NOI was founded in 1930 by a white man, WD Fard. That is not his real name, as he changed his name over and over, hidding behind about 58 different aliases during his life. WD Fard is the first known source of the Yakub story. WD Fard and Elijah Muhammad were likely influenced by the Moorish Science Temple, and were possibly even members. Timothy Drew's Moorish Science Temple said that early pre-Columbian civilizations were founded by a West African Moor "named Yakub who landed on the Yucatan peninsula". WD Fard was rumored to have attempted to take over the Moorish temple, but failed, under the name David Ford-el.
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It is thought that Wallace D. Fard was the same man as Wallace Dodd Ford, an inmate in San Quentin Prison. According to San Quentin records, Wallie D. Ford was born in Portland, Oregon, on February 25, 1891, the white son of Zared and Beatrice Ford, who were both born in Hawaii.
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On August 15, 1959, the FBI sent a story to the Chicago New Crusader newspaper, stating that Fard was a "Turkish-born Nazi agent who worked for Hitler in World War II". This was refuted by the NOI, which called it propaganda and sued the news outlets that failed to check with them about running the piece.
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WD Fard was last heard from in 1934. He was linked to the Pacific Movement of the Eastern World and Japanese agitators such as Satokata Takahashi, and Ashima Takis. This led many NOI members to express pro-Japanese sentiment and refused the draft to fight against the Japanese military, stating that they would not fight people whom they regarded as fellow members of the Original Asiatic Race.
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After Fard, the NOI was headed by Elijah Muhammed.
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Malcolm X publicly accused Elijah of "having 8 children with six different teenage girls" who "were his private secretaries."
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Over a series of national TV interviews between 1964 and 1965, Malcolm X provided testimony of his investigation, corroboration, and confirmation by Elijah Muhammed himself of multiple counts of child rape.
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Many people suspected that the Nation of Islam was responsible for the killing of Malcolm X. Five days after Malcolm X was murdered, in a public speech at the Nation of Islam's annual Saviours' Day on February 26, Elijah justified the assassination by quoting that "Malcolm got just what he preached", but at the same time denied any involvement with the murder by asserting in the same speech: "We didn't want to kill Malcolm and didn't try to kill him. We know such ignorant, foolish teaching would bring him to his own end".
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Elijah's pro-separation views were compatible with those of some white supremacist organizations in the 1960s. He met with leaders of the Ku Klux Klan in 1961 to work toward the purchase of farmland in the Deep South. For more than ten years Elijah received major financial support from white supremacist Texas oil baron H. L. Hunt due to Elijah's belief in racial separation from whites.
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The Nation of Islam's mythology states that Yakub is the biblical Jacob. Malcolm X also states that John of Patmos was also Yakub, and that the Book of Revelation refers to his deeds: "John was Yacub. John was out there getting ready to make a new race, he said, for the word of the Lord".
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His wife’s name was Maitseye, which means “Miss Manners.” After being married Yakub and his wife started to recruit followers to take part in a special mission.
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Yakub taught and proved that there were certain aspects of our imagination and bodies that were deliberately suppressed by leaders and the 24 elders. He taught that the freedom and peace that they were experiencing was false because they were denied knowledge of aspects of mind and body. Yakub simply knew that “if your peace could be destroyed it was not worth much.” He reasoned that the ancient people experienced peace and freedom simply because they had not experienced evil and ignorance which was suppressed by the Elders.
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The name Yakub means “big head scientist”. Yakub would be known by this name until he came into the fullness of the understanding of his mission. He realizes that his mission was that of a creator, God of the non-blacks, and patriarch of the Israelites. After this realization, he would no longer be called Yakub but would be called Yahweh.
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Yakub created white people in a eugenics "grafting" experiment, to give the evil locked inside of black people a flesh of its own.
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The Whites where uncivilized savages at first. Moses and Jesus where both sent out to help them. Jesus created the religion of Christainity to allow Whites to take over the world. Moses taught them to walk upright, use fire, stop eating babies, etc.
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Yahweh / Yakub founded Judaism:
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"My children, I Yakub, your creator, greet you here on the Island of Pat-mos in the year of eight thousand five hundred and fifty. First, I shall thank you, my created people, the Albinoid people, for adhering to my rules of planned parenthood and selective breeding to bring you into existence. I am here to pass on to you my final piece of wisdom which will allow you to rule the world for 6000 years. I first envisioned creating you when I was just a boy, after the darker tribes killed my mother and father and mocked and teased me in school. I have developed the best methods for controlling the darker tribes. You, my special people, my chosen people, my precious Albinoids, you will have many empires if my program is implemented."
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The NOI says the original blacks where members of the Tribe of Shabazz. It claims that this Tribe inhabited Egypt's Nile Valley as well as the area around Mecca in the Arabian peninsula; Elijah Muhammad claimed that Mecca was the Tribe's original home and "the ONLY HOLY SPOT on our planet".
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After Malcolm X split from the group, disgusted by the extremism via a change of heart in a visit to Mecca where he saw whites and blacks pray together in the Sunni Muslim religion, he denounced violence and said the revolution could be bloodless, and accept whites as brothers. Malcolm X was murdered. The new head of the group, Louis Farrakhan, hinted strongly that he had something to do with the murder plot.
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Qubilah Shabazz, the daughter of Malcolm X and Betty Shabazz, was arrested on January 12, 1995 accused of conspiracy to assassinate Farrakhan in retaliation for the murder of her father, for which she believed he was responsible.
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Many, including Malcolm X's family, have accused Farrakhan of being involved in the plot to assassinate Malcolm X. For many years, Betty Shabazz, the widow of Malcolm X, harbored resentment toward the Nation of Islam—and Farrakhan in particular—for what she felt was their role in the assassination of her husband.
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During a 1994 interview, Gabe Pressman asked Shabazz whether Farrakhan "had anything to do" with Malcolm X's death. She replied: "Of course, yes. Nobody kept it a secret. It was a badge of honor. Everybody talked about it, yes".
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Farrakhan played a key role in getting two of the country's largest gangs, the Bloods and the Crips, to sign a ceasefire in May 1992.
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Farrakhan had also organized the Million Man March through Washington DC in 1995 which united a range of African American groups to counter negative portrayals of black manhood; it was the largest black demonstration in U.S.
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In conflict with the white US Government, the NOI made intelligence connections. Gamal Abdel Nasser, Muammar Gaddafi, and Saddam Hussein are a few. The LaRouche movement is another.
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Kurt Frederick Ludwig was a German spy and the head of the "Joe K" spy ring in the United States in 1940–41. It involved Paul Borchardt, a German archaeologist, who was was fired from his university post and confined in Dachau for being a Jew. He was let out and agreed to travel to the U.S. posing as a refugee and to spy for Germany due to patriotism. He was caught by a janitor informant and sentenced to 20 years in prison. Ludwig himself as sent to Alcatraz, but was released in 1953 and deported shortly afterwards. Borchardt was known for his theory that the mythical city of Atlantis was located in Tunisia.
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I believe there is an intersectionality between the Borchardt Atlantis theory and the Yakub myth, but at the moment, cannot put into words exactly what it might be.

I’ve asked one of my close friends to be roommate to afford an apartment. As time went on I started to notice small little things that annoyed me and that I didn’t really like about myself. I’ve noticed that around them I tend to regress to my older younger self unintentionally around them. Nothing bad to point of calling out just small choices of words that made me feel othered or unwanted but logically they did value my friendship as they stuck around with me for years. But Overall I felt them being less considerate of my feelings recently. I’ve talked to them about this and they say it’s because I’m a “negative” person but everyone else in my life disagrees as I’m quit the opposite pretty positive. Recently I was invited to join my new college friends apartment. My rent would be lower then with my friend and I feel more alined with my current self around them. Due to already being into the apartment hunt with my current friend I rejected there invitation. Feeling it be unfair. My college friends understand and told me the offer was still on the table if I never changed my mind but there lease renews in 2 weeks so there is a deadline. Now I don’t want to be a Ass hole and ditch my current friend but this living arrangement would just suit me better and be more affordable. I honestly don’t know what to do as I have to find a place to stay by July. Money isn’t too big of an issue as I could afford to live with my current friend and I know where there currently staying is not the best.

Preface… oh goodness, you know it is a long post if I have to write “preface” first thing. Thank you so much to everyone who stays and reads!!!I’ve been a TBM guy for nearly my whole life (I left when I was a super depressed teenager 9 years ago, went back 7 years ago). Baptized at 8, priesthood of Aaron at 12. Applied to go on a mission at 18, was “honorably dismissed” from serving due to passed anxiety and depression issues.
Married at 19 (3 months after mission dismissal letter, 6 months of dating before marriage), baby at 20, divorced at 21 (she just wanted a baby but not me. I don’t have to pay alimony, just child support, so hoorah!). To be clear, I don’t regret my beautiful baby girl (I’ll call her “A”), but I do regret that I didn’t wait longer to a - know my ex better before getting married, & b - to know my ex better after getting married to have a baby. But, the past is in the past and I am doing everything I can to be an amazing father to that little girl of mine. Fast forward to today, I am now dating an incredible woman (I’ll call her “V”) and have been for nearly a year. She and I are TBM at this point in the story.
My current beliefs: I believe in Jesus Christ, the Atonement, resurrection, and opportunity for everyone to live in Eternity with their loved ones. I have no idea what Eternity looks like because Jesus hasn’t spoken about it in the bible (at least, not the parts that I’ve read. I’m reading the NKJV for the first time because I never had the chance in the BoM church). I don’t believe there is any one person on Earth who has God’s power and allows us to use it. I don’t believe God will condemn anyone for being part of the “wrong” church. I think the only thing that matters is genuinely trying to be a good person. I have no issue with personal beliefs and practices of other churches, members of this church, agnostics, atheists, LGBT community, etc… I know a lot of people here are atheistic or agnostic. Just like I respect your belief system, please respect mine.
Story time… 2 months ago, I was at an Institute class with V (not my class, just visiting her’s) and A was with us for visitation. A was restless and wanted to run around and play in the church halls like any 2 y/o girl does. So, I took her into the hall and quietly chased her around. This is when I heard one of the teachers pose the question/statement to his students: “isn’t it so sad when people leave the church?”
This question seemed so off to me. First, I feel absolutely no sorrow when people leave the church. They are simply choosing to follow their own belief system and to be their own individual person. Wasn’t Jesus super accepting and loving of everyone? Second, it seemed manipulative to me for a teacher to suggest to these college students, who are just figuring out life, that it is automatically a bad thing when someone leaves the church.
Anyway, being a TBM at the time, I had no idea why someone would want to leave the church. My concerns with that question was the first red flag I actually noticed. So, being an incredibly curious person, I decided to google it. Queue the smug looks of every exmo in this community who know what I found, haha! All of my research came from a place of trying to disprove the exmos and anti-mos wrong, so I focussed on diving deep into any topic that concerned me. Each point of research includes exmo, neutral, modern LDS, and LDS archive sources to ensure I had all of the information. Everything in this post I validated from church posts or archives unless I explicitly state otherwise. The CES letter beautifully summarized (is 130 somethings pages actually a summary though?) everything I was feeling and also addressed something things I don’t actually find concerning about the church.
So, my concerns boil down to the following: *The First Vision accounts of who Joseph allegedly saw. Did he see an angel, just Jesus/God/spirit as one being (God), both Jesus and the Father, or both of them and a host of angels? Why did it take him 20 years to tell anyone about it? Why does the church teach that he immediately told people about it when he didn’t? Why did the church actively tell members that he did NOT see God or Jesus, but an angel, for ~40 years after the vision? Any other details of the first vision itself are of no concern to me as it feels like he was simply discussing different parts of what happened. Yes, I’ve read each account.
*Joseph started off his youth by treasure hunting and defrauding people of their money using his peep/seer stone. Sure, he could have just been a kid who didn’t know what it was he was doing (scams) but also… this goes against what I was taught about him being the most honest person you could meet (the phrase “more honest than honest Abe” comes to mind for some reason).
*He used his peep/seer stone to “translate” a large part of the BoM. Most of his translation efforts didn’t require the BoM to be visible or even be near him. I always imagined he held the Urim and Thumim over the plates to see the characters transcribed, much like live google translate. Additionally, his mother recalled him telling stories about the Lamanites and Nephites before the BoM was a thing (I don’t remember my source on this one or if I validated it with church archives). The BoM has many parallels with another book that it may be heavily based on (I forgot the name). The BoM lifts text straight from the KJV and includes non-JST verses that Joseph later “corrected” for the JST.
*He later “translated” the Book of Abraham from Egyptian Papyri which were just ancient burial records. He later “translated” the Kinderhook plates but they were fakes that some of his “disciples” pranked him with. His ability to translate seems fake at best… and a fake ability is no ability in my book.
*Polygamy and polyandry. Do I even need to list any details here? The fact he started the practices before the “revelation” to do so was received, had to manipulate Emma into “letting him” do it, was caught cheating at least once (Emma documented it), married teens, married already married women, wasn’t sealed to Emma until he was already sealed to 20-something other women, never sealed to his parents or children, etc…
*SEC fines. I thought my tithing money was being used to help the poor and needy. It’s frustrating to know it is actually being used to run a business. Yes, the choices the church made were shady but were also comparable to many other businesses. My biggest problem here is the lack of transparency and that my money wasn’t being used for the Lord’s work. If I want to support a business I’ll invest time or money. I prefer not to be scammed out of it by being told it is being used for service and providing for thosein need.
*BITE model. I won’t even start listing any of the items in the BITE model I have issue with. I think about 90-95% of the BITE model red flags are met by the cult. I mean church.
I spoke briefly with V about this a week or so ago, during a camping trip in which we got to share a tent. She was concerned we were sinning but I expressed to her I wasn’t worried about it. I told her I was struggling with the church’s history and current practices. Jesus didn’t teach not to sleep together, he taught not to cheat. She wasn’t ready to discuss it further so we decided to set it aside and we slept side by side in the tent anyway.
A couple nights later, she was feeling sick and wanted to stay with me. Normally she has slept on my couch but she chose to sleep with me in bed. I took care of her that night and the next day and we haven’t slept together since. We also haven’t had sex or performed any sexual acts together. I have no issue with pre-martially sleeping and/or having sex with her as it is a committed relationship that we both are committed to making last (obviously, this isn’t cheating).
Fast forward to 2-3 nights ago. She wanted to stay over again but was feeling guilty and anxious about it. I expressed to her I don’t want to make her feel guilty of anxious about sleeping with me. I gave her a standing invitation to stay whenever she wants but that I would support her in not sleeping together. Then the topic of my beliefs came up again. I told her slightly more but she wasn’t (and still isn’t) emotionally prepared to hear my concerns with the church. She’s concerned my leaving the church would cause her to lose her connection with Jesus (I told her I want to attend a non-denominational christian church with similar morals and beliefs to ours). She asked that we both speak with our bishops and I agreed.
I expressed my concerns to my bishop and it went slightly better than expected. He shared a story about when he was a missionary. Two months in, he met a super aggressive anti-mormon who attacked their beliefs for 30-minutes straight. They left without saying a word. Bishop says he has many questions still but has chosen to “shelve” them for now. He basically told me two things: 1 - to read a particular talk about dissecting difficult questions with V. 2 - that I would have to grapple with this and come to my own conclusion. He’s just grateful I have a strong belief in Jesus, regardless of if I leave the church or not.
V spoke with her bishop and he is convinced I won’t leave. He doesn’t know me very well. He also doesn’t know I would leave in a heartbeat if V would come with me. I know my TBM family would accept my decision. When I left as a teenager they still loved me. When my brother left they didn’t shun him one bit. I know they would do the same for me. But V… I don’t know.
We both got blessings tonight (I honestly believe anyone living a good life who is trying to follow Jesus can speak in his name) and I felt so much peace as I contemplated the direction I want to take my life in… except for the part of not knowing if V will accept me. The young men who gave the blessing stated that “my father in heaven is proud of me” and I believe that is in regard to my dedication to knowing the truth about Jesus, accepting everyone for who they are (including mormons), and forgiving the church as it is God’s place to judge them and not mine.
I adore V and genuinely want to spend my life and eternity with her. She’s the only reason I’m PIMO and not exmo. She clearly, truly loves me. She and I have dreams of raising a small family together, we often laugh together (even when discussing difficult topics such as these ones), and we are able to communicate very well. But, when I’ve asked if she would stay with me if I left the church she skirts around the question and tells me she is confident I’ll come back before I leave. She’s never been afraid to hear the details of why I am struggling with something, until I brought all of this up to her. I really want to tell her what I am feeling and why. I wonder if she won’t agree and choose to find another church together if only she would take time to understand.
She wants both of us to meet together with her bishop because he has a similar style of communicating as I do. I think she might maybe be willing to hear my side if her bishop is there. I’m not sure he’ll actually give me a chance to say my side though. If he does, I’m not really convinced she won’t be torn apart between me and the church. We have agreed to take this one step at a time and to try to figure it all out piece by piece. We’re still talking wedding plans or even eloping if we both still feeling confident in us (I won’t let any marriage happens if we aren’t able to reconcile these differences).
Anyway, I’m just really not sure what to do next. Help? :’(

"Fear the old blood; you've no idea the curse you have brought upon us," the old man said, his pale frame rested against the body of a large woman staring down at him. Her entire form was obfuscated by the thick, plated armor covering her body. The woman lets out a low growl as she plants a hand on his shoulder, and pushes him off of her blade. She stares down at the body, her expression behind her helmet remaining stern, unbroken, and unrelenting...
"You must be unrelenting," One of her... Mentors, of sorts, had told her all those years ago. His large muscular frame was imposing against the smaller, pale girl beneath him. Her arms and legs had white scales along them, and she had a tail not unlike a dragon's. On her back were two wings of matching color.
Her breathing was ragged and heavy, and in her arms was a battle axe she held limply. She had been much younger at the time, but was still quite large for her age. Still, her mentor had dwarfed her.
"This isn't fair!" She groaned. The axe was easily two sizes too large for her, and the energy required to wield it was clearly starting to take its toll on her.
"Life isn't fair, child. Do you think your enemy will give you a break if you get tired? Again," He responded, his voice as stern and uncaring as ever.
In a gust of flame, her mentor was gone, and she alone once more. Arms sore and shaking, she stands tall but tired against the red sand beneath her. She can barely lift the axe, leaving the blade to rest on the ground, as a portcullis across from her slowly opens.
Behind it, a chain devil stood. Its frame was lithe and strong despite the evidence of hunger being written across its body. It is quick to action upon the wall between them having been lifted, and begins to spin a hook at the end of one of its chains as it approaches. The woman shakily hefts her axe, resting it on her shoulder as she meets its gaze with one of her own-- one of equal parts determination and fear.
Hey all! I've been mulling over this prompt for months now, so I figured I should finally put it out there. This is my first time doing a post wherein I have a specific plot in mind, so I hope I can effectively communicate what I am looking for!
Above is an excerpt of a longer piece I am writing for a character I would be interested in doing a 1 on 1 with someone about! Generally, the vibes in that excerpt are the vibes I would be going for. What I'm looking to do is a sort of Bloodborne meets Doom demon hunting campaign that will involve staving off a demon and devil invasion, going to places like the Abyss and the Nine Hells, and making some fun and interesting lore together that would span across realms!
I would love to make a gritty game that is equal parts roleplay and combat, with a focus more on the story than making everything follow rules perfectly! In fact, in reference to rules, I would be okay with using really any system we may want if 5e doesn't work, or heavily homebrewing things!
Since this will likely be a situation where the character I play will be alone the entire time, I am somewhat interested in trying to do something with Gestalt, though I'm a bit new to it!
I would like to do this in Discord, just for the sake of organization. Makes my OCD happy.
Some things about me:

• I am 19! As such, I would like my partner to at least be 17+
• I am pansexual! As a member of the LGBTQ, I would like my partner to be comfortable and okay with my identity, sexuality, and so on!
• I use Any/All pronouns!
• I draw a lot! Like a lot a lot. If our story/writing gets us particularly invested, there's a likelihood I will draw our characters! I actually already have some art I am currently making for this character :)
• I tend to write a lot, as fortunate or unfortunate as that may be to hear. Especially whenever I have a lot of things to describe, or very high muse for a situation! As such, I can tend to write a fair bit most of the time! Now, keep in mind that that's not universal; when it comes to things like combat, dialogue, etc etc, that length is subject to change. There's no real quota for me to meet or anything, nor is there one for you! I don't expect you to match my post length, all I ask for is effort and a show of interest! If your post is well written and I can tell you're putting in the effort and genuinely like what we're writing, we're good!
• I've been roleplaying and playing TTRPGs regularly for about 6 years now, and dabbling with them for upwards of 9, though the exact amount is a bit fuzzy. I've also been very into writing for 8, but have always wanted to make stories even at a young age. I wouldn't say I'm the best writer ever, but I am relatively experienced, and hope that I can make something interesting, engaging, and worthwhile for the both of us!
• I like to discuss with my partner what we are and aren't comfortable with appearing in the roleplay before we begin, so expect me to ask!
• You can call me soft for this if you'd like, but I generally don't prefer to kill off player characters without permission! I like to let characters finish their stories instead of cutting them short. I'm here for a story, not a struggle for survival.
• If anything comes up that I am uncomfortable with, I will tell you! I hope you will do the same! This is intended to be fun, and I would like for it to stay that way :)
• I'm looking forward to making friends with you! I don't want to treat roleplay as some "professional" thing, and I'd like to use it to meet new and interesting people!
• I prefer to write third person past or present tense!

So, if you want to tell a story of demons, devils, and a woman's righteous, hate-fuelled war against them with me, feel free to hit me up! Just be sure to include your favorite joke in your message or, if you can't think of a joke, include the word "Detritus" in your message. That way I know you actually read the post (or at least skimmed it with some amount of effort)! If you don't do this, I may not respond, or give your message less priority than those that do!
Hope to see you soon~!

Has anyone ever seen Dual Survival? I'll tell you what... Matt Graham is probably the best survivalist I've ever seen on any of these types of shows! He doesn't do it naked, but the guy actually lives out in the wilderness in Utah and has made the clothes and shoes he wears from things he's collected and tanned himself!
There were episodes where he was paired up with a former Special Forces guy. In one of those, the Special Forces guy went out to look for game to hunt while Matt stayed back to build up their camp. After about 3 or 4 hours, Matt had made and hung two hammocks, made a couple cups and had cold water ready for the other guy when he got back!
I like to see real survival in these shows, not the garbage we're seeing in this season. Right now we're just seeing drama unfold in Naked and Afraid Last One Standing. And the competition means we're not seeing anyone build shelters or really use their environment to the fullest. It's pretty dumb right now. And everyone acts like they hate Jeff because of something bad he did (I could debate all day about that stuff) but in reality they all know Jeff is one of the best survivalists there and want him gone because they have reason to dislike him. They don't have reason to dislike Matt yet. But Matt would have to be their next target because he's easily one of the best survivalists there and probably the top one if they get Jeff out of there.

Popular wedding venues in the western and central states were featured in Part 1 of US wedding venues. So in part two, we'll focus on wedding venues in the eastern states. Whether it's a luxurious hotel, a rustic barn, or a spacious meadow, all are included. Again, the features of these venues and the approximate prices will be written. Let's explore these beautiful wedding venues!

Wisconsin Wedding Venues

The Paine Art Center and Gardens

This is an art museum located at 1410 Algoma Blvd, Oshkosh. It is an English-style country estate and has nearly four acres of gardens. It has perennial plants and is a great outdoor ceremony venue. Also, there is a historic mansion, charming carriage house, and greenhouse. The venue can accommodate up to 200 people and costs approximately $3000 to $4000 For 100 Guests.

The Lageret

This is a professional event venue located at 515 E Main St, Stoughton. This historic venue offers industrial and rustic charm with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and wood beams. It has ample space for ceremonies and receptions. The venue offers event coordination, customizable lighting options, a bridal suite, and access to preferred vendors. Accommodations for up to 250 people start at $3,500 for a 12-hour rental.

The Enchanted Barn

Located at 1543 6 1/2 Ave, Hillsdale, this barn has an old-world rustic atmosphere around every corner. Featuring several indoor and outdoor venues, one of the most popular ceremony locations is located in Barn's upper-level Hayloft, featuring old wood timbers. Several wedding package options are available here and can accommodate up to 220 people. Off-season all-inclusive wedding packages are $5,000 plus $21 per person.

Illinois Wedding Venues

Danada House

This is a historic mansion located at 3S501 Naperville Rd, Wheaton. a short drive from Chicago. The mansion is also surrounded by a forest preserve that allows for nature-filled photos. There are seven ceremony locations in total, and the largest Magnolia Garden can accommodate up to 300 guests. Venue rentals start at $3,500.

The Morton Arboretum

This is a public nature garden and outdoor museum located at 4100 IL-53, Lisle. Inside there are not only mature trees and flowers but also a playground for children. Offering beautiful woodland and lakeside views. The large garden has a total of 12 venues to choose from and the largest room can accommodate up to 300 guests. Prices range from $600 to $9,000 depending on the size of the room and the time of year it is held.

Salvage One

Located at 1840 W Hubbard St, Chicago, this is a very unique location that serves as a store besides being a wedding venue. It preserves treasured furniture from the past. This old Chicago warehouse offers an enchanting vintage atmosphere. The ceremony and banquet space can accommodate about 200 people and space rentals start at $4,000.

Kentucky Wedding Venues

The Barn at Cedar Grove

The address is 1000 Brockman Keltner Rd, Greensburg, which has a rustic barn setting with picturesque scenery. Offering outdoor ceremony space, climate-controlled reception space, bridal suite, groom's quarters, and fire pit. The venue in the barn can accommodate up to 230 people. For fewer guests, the average budget for a wedding here is between $6,000 and $9,000.

The Brown Hotel

This 100-year-old hotel is located at 335 W Broadway, Louisville. The hotel has a striking Georgian Revival look and offers elegant ballrooms, luxurious accommodations, and a gorgeous rooftop garden. The hotel also has extensive experience in hosting weddings of different cultures, such as Jewish and Indian weddings. Prices are $18,000 in the off-season and can accommodate up to 300 guests.

Talon Winery & Vineyards

This winery has a large outdoor space at 7086 Tates Creek Rd, Lexington. Offers vineyard and winery backdrop, outdoor ceremony space, and rustic barn. The best part is the wine-tasting and vineyard tours. The venue can accommodate up to 250 guests and prices for ceremonies start at $1500.

Tennessee Wedding Venues

Butterfly Hollow

Located at 28 Bussell Rd, Gordonsville, our vacation accommodations are perfect for small weddings. Surrounded by scenic walking trails, mountains, and woods. This venue specializes in small weddings of 30 people or less, with a focus on an intimate and cozy experience. Wedding packages range from $1795 to $5000.

Dixon Gallery and Gardens

An art gallery on 17 acres of gardens located at 4339 Park Ave, Memphis, offers a romantic and artistic setting for weddings. The gallery offers two indoor reception venues as well as woodlands and gardens, both of which can accommodate up to 200 guests. Prices are approximately $4000 to $5000 For 100 guests.

The Bell Tower

The Bell Tower, located at 400 4th Ave S, Nashville, is almost 140 years old. The ballroom features large windows that provide plenty of natural light, creating a charming and historic setting for weddings. There are two floors beside the lobby. Seated dinners for up to 400 people range from $3,500 to $16,000 depending on time and venue.

Mississippi Wedding Venues

The Cedars

The site at 4145 Old Canton Rd, Jackson is the oldest residential building in Jackson, with a history of 175 years. The courtyard in front of the house with trees such as cedar, oak, and magnolia provides a natural backdrop for weddings. The venue can accommodate up to 300 people and costs $3,500 for a two-day weekend rental.

Dunleith Historic Inn

A National Historic Landmark located at 84 Homochitto St, Natchez, the mansion features Greek Revival columns and original pine floors. The event space has a main floor, courtyard, and South Lawn, which can accommodate up to 700 people. Wedding packages start at $6,500, not including catering.

The Gin at Flora Station

The address is 4819 MS-22, Flora. The refurbished cotton gin blends rustic charm with modern amenities. It offers indoor and outdoor spaces, including a covered gazebo and a patio with an old-fashioned truck bar. Rentals for ceremonies and receptions start at $3,500.

Alabama Wedding Venues

B&A Warehouse

This building, located at 1531 1st Ave S, Birmingham, is historic from the outside. With its industrial-inspired design and high ceilings along with red brick walls. Three indoor venues can accommodate up to 300 guests, and the cost of a ceremony starts at $4,000.

The Sterling Castle

This castle is located at 389 Deseret Dr, Shelby, and has been voted the best wedding venue in Alabama. The fairytale-style castle, elegant ballroom, charming courtyard, and lakeside and drawbridge venues. This beautiful venue can accommodate up to 300 guests and all-inclusive weddings are priced at $10,000+.

Huntsville Museum of Art

This is an art museum located at 300 Church St SW, Huntsville. With unique indoor and outdoor spaces, the museum is a contemporary art gallery. Offering outdoor spaces with a rooftop terrace, and five indoor hospitality venues. The starting venue fee for a wedding reception in high season is $1,500.

Michigan Wedding Venues

Colony Club Detroit

Located at 2310 Park Ave, Detroit, this Georgian-style, historic venue features stunning architecture and gorgeous interiors. The hotel features a grand ballroom decorated with crystal chandeliers and intricate details. The ballroom can accommodate up to 350 guests and is priced between $12,000 and $15,000.

Castle Farms

This historic building, built in 1918, is located at 5052 M-66, Charlevoix. With a total of four site combinations in the summer. It offers several ceremony and reception spaces, including a charming outdoor garden and a majestic stone courtyard. The largest of these, the East Garden and Queen's Courtyard can host up to 300 guests. And the price range is between $6,750 and $9,250.

The Inn at Stonecliffe

This is a Victorian village located at 8593 Cudahy Cir, Mackinac Island. away from the hustle and bustle of the area. With beautiful gardens and breathtaking views of Lake Huron and the Mackinaw Bridge. Accommodates up to 300 people and prices range from $4000 to $10,000.

Ohio Wedding Venues

Franklin Park Conservatory

This is a horticultural and educational institution located at 1777 E Broad St, Columbus. The most popular venue is the indoor garden with an all-glass ceiling. Besides, there is an industrial-style venue and a 200-year-old barn. The venue has plenty of space and can accommodate up to 500 people, with prices ranging from $7,000 to $11,000 for a wedding of 100 guests.

The Columbus Athenaeum

The historic building at 32 N 4th St, Columbus, was built in 1899. With a total of ten venues to choose from, the Grand Ballroom boasts gorgeous details and a stunning atrium. It is decorated with classical Greek art as well as soaring ornate ceilings. It can accommodate up to 230 guests. Prices for receptions start at $3,000.

Gervasi Vineyard

An oversized wine estate located at 1700 55th St NE, Canton. Picturesque vineyard setting and sparkling lake views. The open-air venue can accommodate up to 300 people, while the indoor venue can accommodate up to 120 guests. Full-service event planning, vineyard tours, and wine tastings are available. Prices for receptions will start at $1,450.

Georgia Wedding Venues

Barnsley Resort

This resort is located at 597 Barnsley Gardens Rd NW, Adairsville. With over 3,000 acres of land, it is a historic southern estate. With lush gardens, luxurious cabins, and grounds that can accommodate up to 250 people. Three wedding packages are available: $275 per person, $320 per person, and $350 per person. And a least of 150 people is required.

Summerour Studio

This is a renovated warehouse located at 409 Bishop St NW, Atlanta. The roof is supported by massive bow trusses, which allow for a spacious, open floor plan without columns or supports. Through a wall of windows running the length of the space, there are breathtaking views of Atlantic Station and the downtown skyline. Accommodating up to 425 people, prices start at $4,000.

The Biltmore Ballrooms

The ballroom is located at 817 W Peachtree St NW 208, Atlanta, and was established in 1924. The ballroom features a handcrafted plaster relief ceiling, ornate crystal lighting, and a marble floor. Capacity ranges from 50 to 1,500 people and offers eleven caterers. Rental rates range from $3,500 to $5,000, depending on the day of the week.

Florida Wedding Venues

The Ancient Spanish Monastery

Located at 16711 W Dixie Hwy, North Miami Beach. This monastery was dismantled piece by piece from northern Spain and shipped to the United States, then rebuilt over 19 months. It offers a chapel and gardens for ceremonies. The garden can accommodate up to 300 guests for $6,500 and includes only the cost of the reception.

The Breakers Palm Beach

This is a luxury resort located at 1 S County Rd, Palm Beach. This luxury resort is located in Palm Beach and enjoys magnificent beachfront views, lush gardens, and an exquisite ballroom. It boasts a timeless and elegant ambiance. It can host weddings for a maximum of less than 500 people, and detailed prices need to be communicated with the hotel.

The Ringling Museum

The museum is located at 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, with a breathtaking view of Sarasota Bay. This venue offers unique views of art, culture, and the stunning waterfront. It includes many event spaces, including a large courtyard and an elegant ballroom. The largest art gallery courtyard can accommodate up to 125 guests and prices start at $20,000.

New York Wedding Venues

Mohonk Mountain House

Located at 1000 Mountain Rest Rd, New Paltz, this historic resort is surrounded by 40,000 acres of pristine forest. Featuring a majestic Victorian castle with panoramic mountain views. Choose from lakeside, garden, and mountain views for your ceremony. Wedding packages range from $275 to $375 per person.

The Foundry

The address is 42-38 9th Street, Long Island City, with a history dating back to the 19th century. Offering an industrial chic atmosphere, a garden courtyard and conservatory, a stunning main space, plus rustic interiors. Accommodates up to 180 guests, with receptions starting at $14,000.

The Garrison

Estate at 2015 US-9, Garrison, with superb Hudson River views and Catskill Mountain views. The venue offers a modern ballroom, outdoor ceremony space, and golf course. The venue can accommodate up to 200 guests for $12,000.

Pennsylvania Wedding Venues

The Curtis Atrium

The historic building at 699 Walnut St, Philadelphia used to be the Curtis Publishing Company. It is now a building with a mix of residential, office, and retail space. It features a stunning atrium, marble columns, and a stunning rotunda. Space rentals start at $8,000.

The Cork Factory Hotel

This boutique hotel is located at 480 New Holland Ave 3000, Lancaster, a converted historic cork mill with exposed brick walls. Offering industrial charm and modern amenities. The venue has a ballroom, a terrace, and a 2,300-square-foot warehouse. Space is available for up to 200 guests, and wedding packages start at $7,000.

Terrain Gardens at Devon Yard

A stunning garden is located at 138 W Lancaster Ave Suite 130, Devon. The venue is decorated with elements such as reclaimed barn wood floors, raised holiday lights, and skylights to create a unique aesthetic. Of course, there is an essential gardening setting and open-air venue that can accommodate up to 140 guests. Prices for receptions start at $4,525.

West Virginia Wedding Venues

Stonewall Resort

The entire resort is nestled beside a tranquil lake at 940 Resort Drive Roanoke, a place of scenic beauty and rustic charm. Wedding venues are available on the lakeside lawn or in the courtyard, with an indoor grand hall and stone-walled ballroom. Spa services, golf courses, and entertainment can also be experienced with wedding packages ranging from $3,500 to $12,000.

The Greenbrier

A luxury resort located at 101 W Main St, White Sulphur Springs. With stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking mountain views. The indoor venue has a dramatic chandelier and stage. The outdoor grounds feature expansive lawns and rustic cabins. Packages start at $10,000 and vary depending on the number of guests, season, and customization.

Sleepy Hollow Golf Club

The Club at 3780 Sleepy Hollow Dr, Hurricane. It is a private golf club for families. Featuring a scenic golf course, elegant ballroom, outdoor lawn ceremony venue, and picturesque countryside views. Wedding packages start at $3,500.

Virginia Wedding Venues

Maymont

Historic Manor River Park at 1700 Hampton St, Richmond. Inside are gardens, botanical gardens, and native wildlife habitats. The scenic setting includes 100-year-old Italian gardens, European-style manor houses, pavilions, expansive lawns, and the Robbins Nature Center. Prices range from $3,500 to $6,100.

Inn At Willow Grove

This is a rustic accommodation located at 14079 Plantation Way, Orange. It is unusually peaceful and romantic, surrounded by ancient trees and beautiful gardens. One of the gardens, Boxwood, can accommodate up to 175 guests and offers idyllic views. A versatile barn is also available as a hospitality venue, with rates starting at $7,500.

The Tides Inn

Located at 480 King Carter Dr, Irvington, the entire hotel is situated on a beautiful body of water with views of the Chesapeake Bay. It is a waterfront resort. You can also come here to take part in fun activities such as tennis, golf, paddle boarding, biking, and kayaking. Weddings start at $3,100.

North Carolina Wedding Venues

The Bradford

Professional wedding venue located at 523 Pea Ridge Rd, New Hill. It resembles a European town building with charming gardens and rustic barns. It can accommodate up to 250 guests for a ceremony in the gardens. Wedding packages will vary depending on the time of year and are priced at $8,000 on Fridays and $9,800 on Saturdays.

The Merrimon-Wynne House

The mansion located at 500 N Blount St, Raleigh was built in 1876 and has been well maintained and is now a venue for various events. The building has a main floor full of Southern charm. Inside are original floors and mantelshelves, ornate chandeliers, and a wide porch. The outdoor area is also large enough to host ceremonies in the garden and can accommodate up to 250 guests. Prices for receptions start at $5,000.

Fearrington Village

It's an English-style country hotel located at 2000 Fearrington Village Center. Besides the quaint country setting there are dense gardens with water features. The largest venue is the barn, which offers spacious dining and dancing space and can accommodate up to 250 people guests. Prices for ceremonies start at $2500.

South Carolina Wedding Venues

Middleton Place

This National Historic Landmark is located at 4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston. You can experience daily life on an 18th-century plantation and enjoy 65 acres of unobstructed views and private garden rooms. Also, enjoy the oldest landscaped gardens on the property. There are 7 ceremony venues, ranging from small weddings of 50 to 400 guests. Prices start at $5,000.

William Aiken House

The 1807 mansion is located at 456 King St, Charleston, a restored mansion that showcases Southern charm and architectural elegance. The yard features a magnolia tree that is over two hundred years old and an elegant terrace. It is also rated as one of South Carolina's premier wedding venues. The cost of a ceremony starts at $3,000.

The Cedar Room

Modern industrial event space at 701 E Bay St, Charleston. Featuring exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and large windows overlooking the cityscape. The indoor Cedar Room venue can accommodate up to 500 people for events, and the outdoor yard can seat up to 200. Events on Fridays or Sundays start at $3,500.

Vermont Wedding Venues

Inn at Mountain View Farm

The Inn at 3383 Darling Hill Rd, East Burke, has breathtaking mountaintop views. Enjoy mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and visits to animal farms, among many other activities. Venues can range from beautiful fields to cozy campfires. Weekend wedding packages start at $3,500.

Hildene - The Lincoln Family Home

The building at 1005 Hildene Rd, Manchester is full of meaning. The Lincolns built Hildene as a summer home at the turn of the 20th century. Here you can look out over the Taconic Mountains to the west and the Green Mountains to the east. The outdoor venue can accommodate up to 200 people and wedding reception prices start at $8,000.
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(Hildene - The Lincoln Family Home)

The Henry House

The historic house at 1338 Murphy Rd, North Bennington, built in 1769, is one of the oldest surviving houses in Vermont. Overlooks the authentic red-covered Henry Bridge. The site offers several vendors for you to consider. The large trees outside the house make for the best wedding photos. The venue needs to be contacted for a specific quote.

Massachusetts Wedding Venues

The Crane Estate

This is a Tudor Revival mansion located at 290 Argilla Rd, Ipswich. It was the summer home of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Taylor Crane, Jr. with winding salt marshes, miles of barrier beaches, and a beautiful hilltop mansion. And of course the rolling lawns and gardens. There are three sites to choose from in all, with the beachfront site accommodating 200 to 500 people. Weekend weddings are priced at $6500.

Red Lion Inn

The Inn at 30 Main St, Stockbridge has a 250-year history. The entire Inn combines traditional New England hospitality with the amenities of a modern hotel. The largest Hitchcock room capacity is capacity 30-175 people. Venue rentals start at $4,000.

Liberty Hotel

A sophisticated hotel located at 215 Charles St, Boston. Located in the heart of downtown, just steps from shopping, dining, Boston Parks, and more. The hotel offers a private secret garden that can accommodate up to 200 people outdoors and an indoor 3000-square-foot ballroom. Wedding venue rates start at $26,000 for up to 100 guests.

Connecticut Wedding Venues

The Lace Factory

This historic factory is located at 161 River St, Deep River, and offers a charming and rustic atmosphere for a wedding venue. It has wood floors, high ceilings, and large windows overlooking the river. The Lace Factory offers event planning services, on-site catering, and a variety of rental options for weddings of all sizes. The Factory can accommodate up to 225 people and prices start at $5,000.

Eolia Mansion at Harkness State

The address is 275 Great Neck Rd, Waterford. Nestled on the shoreline of Waterford, Connecticut, this elegant mansion offers breathtaking views of Long Island Sound. It has manicured gardens, a stone terrace, and a beautiful ballroom. The price of $5,100 includes exclusive use of the mansion's first floor and south courtyard tent for 5 hours.

The Society Room of Hartford

This event venue is located at 31 Pratt St, Hartford, and the historic venue boasts magnificent architecture. It includes a marble staircase, beautifully frescoed ceilings, and crystal chandeliers. It provides a luxurious and timeless setting for weddings. The venue can accommodate up to 300 guests and prices start at 15,000.

New Hampshire Wedding Venues

Wentworth By The Sea Country Club

Country Club at 60 Wentworth Rd, Rye. This private club is near the shore and enjoys magnificent waterfront views and a romantic atmosphere. The hotel has manicured grounds and a historic clubhouse. It can accommodate up to 250 guests in this setting. Three options are available: lawn, clubhouse, and tent weddings. Reception prices start at $30,000.

The Preserve at Chocorua

This venue, located at 88 Philbrick Neighborhood Rd, Tamworth, is a rustic and secluded wedding venue nestled in the White Mountains. It offers scenic views, a charming barn, and plenty of outdoor space for the ceremony. Outdoor activities such as sleigh rides and hiking are also available. Approximate prices will start at $1000.

Bishop Farm

The Farmhouse, located at 33 Bishop Cutoff, Lisbon, is a historic and beautifully landscaped site in the White Mountains. It offers a restored 1876 farmhouse, a barn, and lush greenery. There is also a romantic bistro with a terrace to relax in. Accommodating up to 200 guests, prices start at $15,000.

Rhode Island Wedding Venues

The Chanler at Cliff Walk

A luxury hotel located at 117 Memorial Blvd, Newport. The Chanler offers luxurious accommodations and a grand mansion setting with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and access to their world-class restaurant. Specializing in weddings for up to 120 guests with access to their world-class restaurant. Site rentals start at $10,000.

Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum

Historic mansion on 33 acres located at 101 Ferry Rd, Bristol with breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay. Large tents are available in the outdoor area, followed by sunset views. Accommodating up to 225 guests, weekend wedding rates start at $12,995.

The Dorrance

Situated in the heart of Providence, The Dorrance is a restored bank building with a sophisticated atmosphere and elegant decor. The most special feature is the long, luxurious bar, which can accommodate up to 200 guests throughout the venue. Venue rentals start at $7,500.

New Jersey Wedding Venues

The Ashford Estate

Located at 637 Province Line Rd, Allentown, this elegant property is nestled in a picturesque setting. Surrounded by hundreds of acres of beautifully preserved farmland, it features sparkling fountains, waterfalls, garden pavilions, expansive views, and of course, luxurious private suites. The wedding venue can accommodate up to 300 guests. Starting at $10,000.

Mallard Island Yacht Club

A club surrounded by water at 1450 NJ-72, Manahawkin. six more venues to choose from in the luxurious private island mansion. The center plaza boasts grand arches and ornate ceilings reminiscent of old-world glamour. The ballroom can accommodate up to 250 people, and prices for receptions start at $20,000.

Liberty House Restaurant & Events

This waterfront event venue is located at 76 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City. It features unparalleled views of the New York City skyline, Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and the Liberty Landing Pier. The Grand Ballroom features a marble floor and floor-to-ceiling windows. The venue can accommodate up to 300 people and venue rental fees start at $8,000.

Delaware Wedding Venues

The Queen Wilmington

This dazzling venue is located at 500 N Market St, Wilmington is downtown. It is a historic music venue that offers a unique and eclectic atmosphere. The venue features a grand ballroom with a stage, state-of-the-art sound system, and elegant décor. The venue can accommodate up to 200 guests and wedding reception prices start from $3,000.

The Cordrey Center

The address is 30366 Cordrey Rd, Millsboro, and its restored barn and surrounding gardens provide a rustic and charming setting. The venue offers a range of services, including in-house catering, bar service, and event coordination. It has indoor and outdoor options and can accommodate up to 200 guests. Venue rental rates start at $3,500.

The Waterfall Catering and Special Events

With an address at 3416 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, The Waterfall has a modern venue. Centered around a stunning indoor waterfall. The spacious ballroom features contemporary décor and customizable LED lighting systems. The venue can accommodate up to 500 guests. Prices for venue rentals start at $6,000.

Maryland Wedding Venues

Belvedere Hotel

Located at 1 East Chase Street and built-in 1902 as a historic landmark in Baltimore, The Belvedere showcases stunning architecture and classic charm. It offers a variety of event spaces, including a rooftop ballroom with panoramic views of the city. Inside, the décor is more vintage and ornate. Accommodating up to 500 guests, venue rentals start at $8,000.

Evergreen Museum & Library

This grand Gilded Age mansion is located at 4545 N Charles St, Baltimore. It is full of history with a house museum and research library. With beautiful gardens, this venue offers a mix of elegance and history. It's architectural details and scenic surroundings provide a unique backdrop. As well as a tour of the museum's collection. Accommodates up to 200 guests and starts at $6,000.

Chesapeake Bay Beach Club

Located at 500 Marina Club Rd, Stevensville, this venue offers stunning waterfront views and an elegant ballroom. It also has an oceanfront ceremony venue and luxurious accommodations. There are four ballrooms in total, three indoor and one outdoor. Accommodations for up to 300 guests start at $10,000.

District of Columbia Wedding Venues

Larz Anderson House

Located at 2118 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, the Anderson House, established in 1905, is a stunning Beaux-Arts mansion that offers a romantic and intimate setting for weddings. The venue features beautiful gardens, a grand staircase, and gorgeous rooms decorated with historic artwork. It can accommodate up to 200 guests and has access to the house's magnificent library. Prices start from $8,000.

The Hay-Adams

Located at 800 16th St NW, Washington, across from the White House, the hotel offers magnificent views of the iconic landmark. This venue has many event spaces, including a rooftop terrace from which the White House can be used as a photo backdrop. Wedding venues can accommodate up to 250 guests and prices start at $15,000.

National Museum of Women in the Arts

Located at 1250 New York Ave NW, Washington, this unique venue celebrates women artists and offers a distinctive setting for weddings. With its stunning architecture and world-class art collection, it provides an exquisite atmosphere for your special day. The venue offers a variety of event spaces, including an assembly hall and mezzanine level, and can accommodate up to 400 guests. However, the museum is temporarily closed for renovations.

Maine Wedding Venues

Hidden Pond

The resort's address is 354 Goose Rocks Rd, Kennebunkport, and is nestled in a secluded wooded area. Featuring elegant indoor and outdoor spaces. Surrounded by 60 acres of birch and balsam fir, it features two outdoor pools and a three-room treetop spa. It ensures an unforgettable wedding experience. Prices start from US$10,000.

Hardy Farm

The farm is located at 254 W Fryeburg Rd, Fryeburg. This rustic and chic site features a restored 18th-century farmhouse and a spacious barn with panoramic mountain views. Of course, there are also seasonal gardens and a woodland church. The most special feature is the provision of a cable car to reach the top of the mountain, which is also a popular backdrop for photos. It can accommodate up to 250 guests and prices start from $6,500.

Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

The address is 20 Milk St, Portland, and is centrally located, offering a blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. With many event spaces, on-site catering, and a spa, it can accommodate intimate and large weddings. Accommodations range from 10 to 220 guests, with rates starting at $3,500.

Conclusion

"When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible." When Harry Met Sally
Finally, we've rounded up our recommendations for wedding venues in each of the remaining states. Choosing the perfect wedding venue is an important step in creating your dream wedding. It sets the tone for the entire celebration and provides the backdrop for your special day. No matter what style of wedding venue you prefer, there is a venue above that perfectly suits your style and preferences.
Last but not least, don't forget to check out Quictent's wedding tent. we offer quality wedding tents for your outdoor wedding, containing various types and sizes.

So, I should preface this, by saying that I run tabletop games, not D&D, but a similar concept. There’s a wide variety of settings and concepts within. In the past, I’ve rune concepts, that I’m not sure of whether or not they are offensive, or ill-advised.
The setting, in question, is one known as the World Of Darkness. The premise, is that it is essentially our world, but all manner of supernatural beings exist, from Werewolves, to Vampires, to Mummies, to Mages who can warp reality itself. And the world itself, is bleaker for it, for many of their schemings and machinations, or their foes, make things worse. From how they affect the government to how they affect the economy.
One of the characters and concepts is, kinda hard to explain. The part that gives me pause, is that it’s a man, who for all intents and purposes, is Caucasian having a position of Authority in a community, made up almost entirely by people of color. The reason for this….. wouldn’t necessarily make sense, in our world. In the setting of the game… it makes some degree of sense.
In the setting of the game, he is a member of their people, the Bastet, their word for Werecats. There are many tribes among their people, from the mighty Khan and Simba tribes, to the wise Bubasti, to the swift Swara. The man in question, is one of the last living member of one of the lesser tribes, descended from the Simba, known as the Ceilican, the Maneless lions that in legends once roamed Northern Europe. The community itself, is composed of Bastet alongside their human Kin. His Authority, comes from his age as the eldest and highest ranked, in the military sense, Bastet among the community. If another Bastet of Higher Rank were present, they would be in charge, and if he were a poor leader, he could be removed from office via execution.
The Ceilican, in the setting, are a dying tribe, because, and this is a loaded concept…. They’ve basically suffered a number of attempted genocides and being enslaved. I can’t actually ask you guys, to read up on the lore, so I’ll do my best to explain. The first instance was during a war among the shifters, that resulted in the weaker Ceilican, being nearly hunted to extinction by their neighboring Werewolves in Europe. To avoid this, they tried to broke a treaty with the Fae Lords for Asylum, instead it ended with them being enslaved for centuries. The second, was when their feline Kinfolk, were hunted down during the European Witch-Hunts, and burned at the stake as witches’ familiars. The last, and the most recent, was when servants of the Wyrm, hunted them to their annual tribal meeting and gave them a choice….. Convert to its’ service….. or die.
The Ceilican, is one of the last living members of his tribe, and is in fact dying slowly, due to working to study their foe, and learning magic originating from the Defiler Wyrm, which has resulted in an illness that cannot be treated. Essentially a slow death, by radiation poisoning, that can only be treated, not cured. As one of the last living members of his tribe, all he can do, is try and serve those that will continue after his tribe have faded into the dust.
Is that concept, inherently an offensive one?

This is the best tl;dr I could make, original reduced by 46%. (I'm a bot)

By India Today World Desk: A Christian youth was sentenced to death and slapped with a fine of Rs 20,000 by a Pakistani court on Friday for allegedly committing blasphemy.
The district and sessions court of Pakistan's Bahawalpur city awarded capital punishment to the accused after the prosecution presented evidence and witnesses against him, as per a court official.
"The prosecutors presented the forensic record of Maih's cellphone which proved that he shared the blasphemous content through WhatsApp," an official said.
This year, on May 7, a man was lynched by a mob after he allegedly made blasphemous remarks during a rally of Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
Pakistan is among the countries where blasphemy is punishable by death.
Earlier on March 24, 2023, a Muslim man in Pakistan was awarded a death sentence over blasphemous content on a WhatsApp group.

Summary Source FAQ Feedback Top keywords: court^#1 Pakistan^#2 blasphemous^#3 death^#4 mob^#5
Post found in /worldnews.
NOTICE: This thread is for discussing the submission topic. Please do not discuss the concept of the autotldr bot here.

I was just posting about this in another thread, but after posting, I kinda realized this probably should be its own thread, because honestly - I think the problems that this arc has (both in the manga and in the anime) could have been completely resolved if the arc focused only on Hantengu.
Hantengu's Blood Demon Art is probably one of the most elaborate blood demon arts shown in the entire series and a lot of emphasis is put into explaining it regarding the different emotions, how they form, their own individual abilities, giving them distinct personalities and interactions with each other and the slayers outside of just their single emotion.
The clones also work wonders in the same way that the Upper Six fight goes. In that fight, the stakes gradually rise, with Tanjiro facing off against Daki and struggling, to showing Nezuko/Tengen have a much easier time facing her and raising the 'level' of the fight just to introduce Gyutaro, which at that point starts to set the tone for the rest of the fight/season moving forward. This is the point where everyone starts losing their shit in the Red Light District Arc, as the most epic moments begin to happen and the animation/stakes rise to whole new levels, as we've watched the stakes rise until its boiling point. Hangengu's emotions function in a very similar level, starting off the fight with an incredibly difficult (but manageable) gimmick that tests Tanjiro/Nezuko/Genya and really pushes them and allows the stakes to rise, even showing the sliver of an opportunity to end the fight with the reveal of 'Tiny Hantengu', but then culminating in the appearance of Zohakuten, who arrives on the scene similar to Gyutaro with incredible presence that screams 'Upper Four'. And it is at this point that the fight becomes unmanageable for the non-Hashira, cause just like how Gyutaro is on a stage above them entirely, Zohakuten completely overwhelms them with the wood dragons and straight-up would have killed Tanjiro if not for Mitsuri's intervention.
The setting and the pacing of the Upper Four fight mirrors Upper Six's incredibly well, as well as showing a natural progression that I think gives people the genuine impression that yes, Gyutaro and Hantengu ARE on Upper Moon caliber level and that Hantengu is an actual step-up with his presentation and the complexity/scale of his Blood Demon Art, while having a different but also incredibly difficult way to actually kill him (finding and decapitating his true body while avoiding the other emotions).
The fight with Hangtengu's pacing has actually been very good in my opinion when accounting for only his scenes (the Genya flashback notwithstanding, and even then, I think that flashback was fine since Genya still had so many question marks for everyone that it was nice to get even some answers). So, what's the issue then?
Fucking Gyokko
In contrast, Gyokko's scenes really come across as entirely pointless. He's screwing around in the forest, making art of the swordsmiths he comes across, and then comes across Muichiro by chance. The beginning of their fight does start with pretty good stakes as he overpowers unmarked Muichiro and traps him in the water bubble, but then the stakes all fade away as he just drags the pacing of the whole arc to a crawl. In the middle of episode six, he interrupts the hunt for Hantengu to just gloat at Muichiro being in his water prison with absolutely no progression to their fight at all. In next episodes, he starts harassing Haganezuka, but it ends up amounting to nothing as he becomes transfixed on the idea of 'interrupting' the art and not simply killing him. He just wastes time screwing around, even when his fight with Muichiro starts-up again.
When Zohakuten trash-talks Tanjiro, he's doing so from a place about Tanjiro. Tanjiro is in no place to try taking advantage of him, which gives the demon the actual ability to do so without wasting his time/putting himself at risk. Gyokko, meanwhile, continues to just trash talk Muichiro over-and-over even after Muichiro reveals his mark and shows better skill than prior, showing he could be a real threat. And then when Gyokko reveals his "true form", he just straight-up dies right after, accomplishing nothing in a 1 v. 1.
The Upper Four fight is shown to always have constant momentum, moving forward to the next stage of the fight (introducing the clones, to introducing Tanjiro's/Nezuko's Blood Demon Red Sword, to introducing Genya's demon state, to the reveal of tiny Hantengu, to the reveal of Zohakuten, and then to the arrival of Mitsuri). Gyokko wastes time taunting Muichiro and the swordsmiths, attacking but not killing, playing with his food over-and-over again. Is Gyokko stronger than he is presented? Obviously, he wouldn't be Upper Five if that wasn't the case. But he wastes so much time just hamming around that he just kills the pace of his whole fight, which is a big problem since his fight has been occurring since episode four, but it also is occurring in a way that it's interrupting the more movement-focused fight with Hantengu.
I know the problem with focusing on Hantengu only causes some problems, since he is Upper Four and skipping Gyokko would cause him to feel even more pointless in the future. Not sure if the correct approach would have been to have Muzan kill him in the Upper Moon meeting or (Manga spoilers ahead) >! to have Gyokko just be a fight in the Infinity Castle Arc. Maybe have him try and kill Kiriya and have Tengen/Shinjuro fight him off as a good final moment for their characters while also giving Gyokko a potentially good fight !< , but regardless, attaching both Upper Moons to this one arc was a mistake. Hantengu's presence as Upper Moon 4 already makes Upper Moon 5 feel somewhat pointless in this arc, and Gyokko meanwhile just drags down the episodes where Hantengu's fight is advancing in a much smoother, well-done pace.

My daughter (6th grade, almost 12) does not have a group of friends. She has a couple of friends, but not many, and none who she is incredibly close with. It pains me. It sounds strange, but I fear I made a mistake in her extracurricular activities that has set the stage for this issue.
To back it way up…In preschool I signed her up for dance classes at a studio nearby, though not in our town. We know the owner and it’s one of the best in the area. She joined with some friends from her preschool, all who are in a neighboring district. Starting in kindergarten the other girls all went to a different school than her. She’s always been the only kid from our district in her dance classes.
But it never bothered her much… she knew most of the girls and was friends with several of them. As the years have gone by, she has continually grown apart from the others. These girls are becoming extremely cliquey and not welcoming to kids outside of their circle. Since my daughter isn’t at their school, she’s outside of this circle, despite knowing them for years. I’ve asked my daughter if it bothers her- and she said a bit, but she absolutely loves dancing there and doesn’t want to quit, so I just decided to let it be. She has tried many other activities over the years… softball, basketball, swimming, and more, all in our district and with kids in our town, but none of the other activities stuck…. Just dance.
Now in middle school it’s painful to see how much she is on the outskirts everywhere, at both dance and school. I’ve suggested trying dance classes at another studio in our town, but she is not interested whatsoever.
She is still happily going to dance so maybe it’s simply more painful for me than her. Seeing all the other moms post pics of their girls getting ready for the recital together in each others’ houses, having sleepovers after… it really hurts my heart…. My daughter is never included. Not that she’d really want to be, I think. She isn’t close with them. But she is happy in this studio- so I don’t see a reason to stop the classes. I just fear I’m making a poor decision keeping her and how it will continue to affect her social life moving forward, especially in the thick of these increasingly tough middle school years. The girls aren’t mean to her, but I fear it will turn into that. Currently I think she’s just being ignored.
I know she wants more friends. I know she often feels on the outskirts. She’s shy. I encourage her to try clubs at school to foster more schoolmate friendships, which she didn’t do this year, and now it’s summer and that ship has sailed. I’m going to push for her to try more activities in our district next year on top of dance, but is it crazy for me to feel at fault for this situation? Like maybe I should override her decision to stay at this dance school … because I can see how this might play out in disaster.
I know I didn’t have the ability to see in the future when I signed her up at age 4, and have done the best with the info at hand. But I just fear this affecting her more and more socially and mentally as she gets older. She’s definitely showing signs of depression and when she’s not at dance there’s a lot of sitting around doing nothing. Would love anyone to weigh in……

I am a newbie writer, I'd love to hear some criticism (I can imagine there's a lot) so please tell me what you think I did right and wrong.
-------------------------------------------
I pull my head away from the sink a second or so after I splash the cold water into my face, I blink a number of times as I reach down and turn the tap’s handle. I then grab a small towel and rub my face with it.
Hmm, that never wakes me up as much as I'd like to, I’m more awake than I was, which is a victory I suppose.
I turn and walk past the barely functional shower and the clean toilet, which isn’t too impressive till you see the rest of the outpost.
I open the door and walk out into the main room. The room’s somewhat divided into two, the front door is right in the middle of the wall, and to its right is the kitchen. Well, the kitchen might be giving too much credit, a few counters with a fridge, sink, and microwave. We did have a coffee maker till Baron got drunk and broke it, which left us with no more coffee and no more drinks as Cleo had us pour the rest of the alcohol so it wouldn’t happen again with something more important.
To the left of the door is a living room, an old orange sofa, which looks like it’s seen more combat than us, honestly I have no clue where Baron and Jakob found this bloody thing. We also have a lounge chair, also orange and also in the same state that the sofa is in. We have a small wooden coffee table between the sofa and our TV. It’s a small screen and it’s black and white but it works, mostly works, the machine is fine but, well, it’s held up by these four legs and I’ll just say it, those skinny chicken legs are not aging well, we’ve already nailed boards and pipes onto these legs as braces.
We have a bit of a bet going on about how long it’ll last, I’m giving the legs three months, and Baron’s doing the repairs and is giving about six months, Cleo better hopes it breaks within the week or she’s lost her money, and Jakob didn’t place a bet.
I turn around and close the bathroom door, as I do I get a view on this side of the room, three doors stand.
On the far left is the second biggest room in the outpost, only beaten by the main/common room, Baron and Jakob have that room, it’s about twice the size of the bathroom, and Jakob and Baron were just barely able to fit a double sized bed in there, although they lost the room for a desk or anything more a pair of small bedside cabinets.
In the middle of the three is the bathroom, again, pretty small, damaged shower, clean toilet.
On the far right is Cleo’s room, about the same size as the bathroom. She was able to get a desk and signal bed.
And of course, there’s the radio desk, packed just into the far right corner, just past Cleo’s door is the radio desk, it has a ton of radio equipment on it so we can get orders from HQ.
I turn around, walk a bit further over to the living area and sit down on the lounge chair, Baron is laying down on the sofa with his head turned to face the TV, and Cleo is preparing an MRE for herself, I don’t know how she can stomach those things.
Baron is a mountain of muscle, while incredibly strong he’s not the brightest bulb, still a lovely guy to be around. He’s currently wearing some old jeans and a turtleneck.
Cleo’s very strict and pretty reserved, she’s not shy, she just doesn’t talk unless she has something to say. Currently, she’s wearing some baggy green camo trousers and a brown tank top.
“How ya doing Milo?” Baron turns his head and asks.
“Hmm, fine I guess, you?” I reply and ask back,
“Fighting fit” He answers with a smile as he looks back at the TV. I look over to the TV to see what he’s watching, it’s some kind of mechanical show.
“Feeling homesick?” I sarcastically ask.
“As if” he laughed, “Hey, If I go back into mechanics then I want you to shoot me” he adds.
We both laugh at the joke. After we calm ourselves a bit he says “Anyway, I’m only watching it because it’s between this or that bloody ‘live at the capital’ with that, umm, what's-her-faces?”
“Sue Stone?” I answer.
“Aye that’s her” He snaps his fingers
“yeah, I see your point, both her and that entire show are horrible”
“The part that gets on my nerves is that it’s always on, we never get the signal for anything good here” he continues to rant and I can’t help but chuckle, it’s always a bit funny watching him get annoyed.
“Like that ‘Lies on the coast’ show, I mean that show got another season for god sake”
“Wait really?” He asks, turning a bit and starting to sit up.
“Yeah, it’s ridiculous” I answer.
He sighs and facepalms, “I wish you hadn’t told me that”
“Hmm?”
He sighs again and leans back into the sofa “That’s gone and ruined my mood”
I laugh as I stand up “Heh, sorry man, anyway, I’m off, any idea where Jakob is?”
“ umm, I think he’s on the porch ‘though he might have gone off for a walk or something” He answers.
I nod and walk off towards the cabin door and open the old door. I see Jakob as I open the door, he’s in his late twenties and has long black hair, and is wearing combat boots, black jeans, and a gray shirt, he normally has a knee-long leather jacket on but he isn’t wearing it currently. He’s sitting on a chair with his legs on the small metal table here on the porch, he’s reading a book.
“How are you?” I ask as I walk over, he looks up from the booms quickly.
“O-oh, I-I didn’t see you t-there” He speaks as he sits up more and takes his legs off the table, “and I’m good, you?”
He has a bit of a stutter, something he said he was born with, he’s tried to get rid of it, apparently to no avail.
“I’m fine” I answer as I sit down across from him. “What’ you reading there?” I ask as I reach over and grab one of the bottles of water on the table.
“Oh, it’s a S-strange man in a st-strange land” He answers, “It’s about a-a man who from Mars who c-comes to e-earth"
“Hmm, sounds interesting” I add as I uncap the bottle.
“It is! Err, w-would you like to borrow it af-after I’m done with it?”
“Sure!” I answer before taking a mouthful of the water, “Just tell me when you’ve finished it” I add.
“will do!”
And with that, I turn my head off and look out into the forest ahead of the cabin. I then look back over at Jakob. You know it's a shame, it’s always nice to speak with him yet he almost never speaks.
Let me correct that, he’s always happy to speak and always has something interesting to say, yet he almost never starts the conversation. I’ve had to guess it would stem from his past.
His past. His past is a bit of a mystery to me. I know he was once a slave to the Dominion, I know he and Baron escaped the Dominion together and I know they later joined the Freedom Fighters, I also think, but am in no way sure, that he’s a tribal.
Two main reasons, funnily, both of which also make up his role in the team.
For one, he’s a helluva sniper, he once killed a person from two thousand meters away. He also handles the hunting for our squad, getting fresh meat is fantastic when all you’ve only been eating MREs for months.
Second of all, he’s a skilled tracker, if he’s on someone’s trail then he’ll find them. There was this guy who used to be with the Freedom Fighter, but he turned traitor and used a bomb to kill a whole unit, and then Jakob was sent after him.
Jakob tracked him across the entire wasteland, he followed him north, all the way up to the ruins of those old-world cities of Calaye and that City of Lights
I had always thought places like these either weren’t real or were greatly exaggerated, but according to Jakob, they're real.
“Hey,” Jakob says, I look away from the forest and over to Jakob, “I w-was going to go on a-a hunt, wanna join?” He asks as he stands up.
I take a second to think before replying “Sure, that sounds fun” I answer as I get up
“Yeah, I h-have a pair of rifles in the c-car” He speaks as we start to walk off the porch, but then we hear a yell.
“Everyone! Here now” we both hear Cleo yell from inside. We both turn on the spot and charge into the cabin, pushing past the door.
We see Cleo sitting by the radio, Baron standing by her. “Incoming broadcast, directly from the Colonel! Get over here”
Jakob and I rush over, albeit with a lot less worry and a lot more interest.
Colonel Barnaby is the leader of the Freedom Fighters, not our founder, that was General Margaret. Officially she is still our leader, yet she went missing over three years ago, Colonel Barnaby has refused to take her position officially until he sees proof of her death.
We stand behind Cleo as she flips a few switches and turns a couple of dials, trying to get the best connection.
After a few moments we can hear a voice. “-Re you there, Sergeant Laidlaw?” His voice can be heard cutting through the static.
“Yes Colonel Barnaby, what seems to be the problem?” Cleo answers and asks.
“09-10?” He asks. A password.
Cleo turns her head towards a small open book on the desk, the book’s filled with a series of dates and names. What the Colonel asked was a date, with the day being brought down by one, and the month being brought up by one.
“01-31-09-26” She answers. Her answer is the date of birth of everyone in the squad, in days. All the dates are off by a few days, the amount depends on the current date, the amount to change by is listed in that book.
“Good, now Sergeant Laidlaw I have an important task for you and your squad” Jakob and Baron exchange a few glances at this news, “Are you familiar with the town of Pinkton?”
And there goes my excitement for this operation.
“A member of my squad is” She answers.
“Then I’ll let them fill you in on what the town is like, The more dead air the better” He mumbles the last bit, “Now listen, upon wolf street there is a warehouse, at 02:10 a shipment will be brought into it, I need you to go there and steal a crate with a serial code of ‘01-12-20-06’. Did you get that?”
“Warehouse on Wolf Street, get a crate, serial code ‘01-12-20-06’, got it” She answers as she grabs a pencil and starts jotting it down.
“Good, after receiving this crate I need you to bring it back to your base, a team will be ‘round to pick up at some point, understood?”
“Yes sir”
“On the other side,” He says as the line goes dead, leaving our squad alone again. A few moments of silence follow before Cleo turns in her chair and stands up.
“Baron, Jakob, go get your gear” She speaks, Jakob and Baron nod before quickly turning and rushing to their rooms.
She then turns to me and asks “You’re from Pinkton right? Tell me about it”
I sigh, “It’s the crown prince of rust belt towns, it peaked twenty years ago and has been on a cliff face of a decline since”.
“Without the sarcasm?” She follows.
I sigh again, “It's a small town, it used to be incredibly important as it has a port, and it has a railway going through it since the old world made it very important for getting resources from the islands to the mainland.”
“I assume that was the peak?”
“You’d be right” I continue “Pinkton is down a river, which limits the size of ships that can go there, when new rails were built to towns on the coast Pinkton fell out of favour. It won’t have much security and most people there are in their eighties so we won’t have to worry too much about noise as they’ll likely be deaf.”
“I see, well thanks, I’ll go get my gear, you go get yours” She states and turns off, going to her room to get ready.
I turn around and walk over to the couch, I kneel down and grab a suitcase from under it, my gear is stored in there. I pull it out and walk off to the bathroom to get ready.

Bought my '23 OR lunar rock DCLB a few months ago and am loving it. I'd like to get a canopy for it, but am realizing how expensive they are. Any suggestions for places to buy/look, best deals, models etc? The used canopy market for 3rd gen seems nonexistent, which isn't very surprising. I am in the US, but near Canada, so wouldn't mind driving up there for one if it's cheaper.
I'll be using it mostly for keeping things out of the rain, will probably sleep back there a bit for hunting and what not as well.

Gender: Female (she/her) Age: 24 (looking for age range 23-29) Orientation: heteroromantic asexual (please look it up in advance) Location: Alberta, Canada. I especially prefer Edmontonians
Looking for: A romantic relationship. While I love connecting with people as friends, I'm looking for someone who is more relationship-oriented! Honestly, I want a best friend to love that is not confined to societal standards. I take a while to form a connection so I prefer talking online first.
About me: I'm a bubbly ambivert who values emotional intimacy and all sorts of conversations. I am very affectionate and love open communication. Really into talking about everything and just connecting.
Also, I'm BIPOC and spiritual. As long as there is mutual respect, it's all good!
Not very outdoorsy, but I love traveling and exploring new cities. I like learning about languages and cultures and have way too many pop culture references. Always on the hunt for the next binge-able show. I like to dabble in different mediums of art.
Hobbies: cartoons, listening to music (mostly alt and indie) and writing my own lyrics, TV shows, movies (raunchy comedies, reading, painting, upcycling clothes, writing
DMs are open!