I'm 17 years old and I've been refereeing for 3-4 years. At this point, I mostly AR, and I usually work club games up to like U19. I'd say I'm pretty solid in terms of mechanics and positioning on the line, but I want to transfer into getting more middles and I need to learn more about calling fouls. I've been trying to be more purposeful about looking for fouls and understanding why certain calls are/aren't made when I'm on the line, but I still have the bad habit of deferring fouls to the CR completely even when I might have a better view on the play. I know that it's good to have 3 sets of eyes looking for infractions at all times, but I always stop myself from making those calls because I keep telling myself that the center is more experienced than me and probably understands these calls better than I do. I know they can just wave me off but I'm worried about the optics of parents/coaches seeing the flag go up and no call being made. So I just keep my flag down (excepting offside) and let the center make the calls on fouls usually. My question is, what should I be thinking about to change my mindset, or how can I start getting better at this?

I have some light experience writing bad code a long time ago - some python/django, php, api usage, etc, but am just a beginner when it comes to code.
I'd love to find more ways to quickly crank out simple web apps or chrome plugins with the help of AI.
Mostly want to be able to learn/decide on:

• lightweight backend for hosting the app
• code for login/authentication
• simple CRUD forms for chrome plugins & persistence on a hosted db
• lightweight web page DOM scraping as needed
• simple 3rd party api data processing as needed

Context, One of my best friends has trouble going through daily life 6 month after cutting their manipulative asshole of a roommate that has been living rent free in their head for years now.
It's seriously affecting them in their day to day life, things like not being able to sleep, paranoia, panic attacks related to activities they like but used to do with the Manipulator AH.
They seem to think that avoiding these triggers is impossible and useless and that they should "Fight it" because they don't want to "flee from their problems".
I have suggested seeing a therapist, they already are, but not for this, and it seems their therapist refuses to talk about more than one issue at a time.
I don't know how to help them, what to tell them or anything, I don't have any resources.
Examples of things I know for a fact their room-mate did :
-Guilt tripping them for unreasonable things.
-Taking and holding things they love hostage, like their cat (we got them back).
-Quick unpredictable bursts of anger.
-I'm having trouble remembering everything, but anytime I learn more about that AH It makes me want to retroactively kick his target-shaped ars...
Anyway, this is as much a rant post as it is a request for tips/resources/examples of things to do/tell them/try.
​
Thank you.

I don’t know how to handle serious relationships.
I need advice…
I(15M(do t know if underage posts are allowed but ok) had a confusing revelation today. I gotta give some background though. Basically till high school I didn’t have nearly any friends. I kept trying to form friendships with people that I was probably better off not being friends with. I changed my personality so much because I desperately tried to conform to other peoples views of a “good friend.” But being as socially AwKwArD as I am, still didn’t make many friends until I started acting immature and kind of let a personality that’s not me be me. I was so desperate to find someone that liked me for who I am(I didn’t even know who I really was at the time(still don’t really)) so I put myself out of my comfort zone at the time just to try to find someone outside of my family that actually loved me or even actively wanted to be around me. Every. Single. Time. I ended up making a fool out of myself, I fell for someone’s obvious lie about wanting to go out with me, I was laughed at for asking someone to a school dance in middle school.
I thought that would all change in high school and it did but not in the way I hoped it would. I got some friends that I like but don’t really like me but rather just the part of me that I don’t know if is really a part of me or just my affliction to make friends(idk if that makes sense) and I even went to homecoming with someone freshman year(turned out to be a flop but what do you do?) I ended up making friends with more mature people like seniors in my robotics team thinking maybe these people I hold in high standard would be good for me to learn from but it just didn’t end up being as simple as just talking with them a bunch or liking what they liked. Thinking about all that’s happened over the last two-three years had made me realize two things: 1. I’ve been (and am) always in a state of feeling lonely 2. I don’t know if anyone will ever love me for who I am and not just this show I put on for all these people because I’m fed up with the pressure to have friends.
Alright the tmi is over. Today I went to my sisters’ play to help setup and do the cast party. Most of the cast is also my age. I chatted with a few of the fellow sophomores and finished eating and everything. At the end of the party, someone that I talked to for less than a minute came up to the group of people I was talking to(her friends) and told me I was hot. Now I later came to find out she says this to a lot of people as a joke, but when I found that out, a fellow sophomore said that I am attractive though. I by no means am attractive. I’m not really ugly just not the best looking(bushy eyebrows, other minor stuff) definitely not considered typically hot. I realized at the time, it felt good, that was the single first compliment on ME, not my actions, that I had gotten in months if not years.
I’ve been thinking about this for the last few hours. This might seem desperate but I do really want a girlfriend, I’m not very picky and am already good friends with so many wonderful girls but don’t think I’m their type/like that to them.
TL;DR Semi-Unattractive teenager doesn’t know how tf to handle compliments. Unloads on Reddit about how down bad he is for someone to care about him more than just a text. I don’t know how to handle serious relationships with adhd and need help.
Obviously mods if I can’t post this the. Take it down but I’m in need!

Timestamp: https://imgur.com/a/bx8GD0L
Up for sale is a bunch of stuff. All prices shipped. Only $195 shipped for everything if you wanted it all.
Energizer Xbox 360 controller docking station as is with battery packs As Is - free with any purchase over $60
Old PC games/discs for only $90:

• Redjack revenge of the brethren
  
• Star Wars pit droids
  
• Unreal pc
  
• RAMA Pc
  
• The universe according to Virgil reality
  
• Pitfall the Mayan Adventure
  
• Pokémon Gotta Make’em all!
  
• Warcraft II
  
• ghost recon desert siege pc new
  
• Red alert
  
• Half life 2 collectors
  
• age of empires 2 age of kings
  
• total anihilation pc
  
• warcraft orcs and humans pc
  
• Microsoft money 2002
  
• Essentials of statistics for business be economics fourth edition Thompson learning
  

Other stuff:

• statehood quarters collection $40
  
• Movado Pocket Watch $50
  
• Mazel Titanium golf driver $69 (retails for usually $140+)
  

Trade interests:

• glock 19.3 complete side, barrels, magazines
  
• AR10 PMAGs
  
• grey mvg, grey Mlok Afg, grey Mlok type 2 panels
  
• burris Pepr QD 30mm mounts
  
• various tools
  
• various hardware
  
• recover tactical 20/20 g19 conversion kit
  
• t1 spacers
  
• streamlight rm1/2 with laser is cool too
  
• streamlight tlr7/8
  
• various survival or other gear
  
• cmmg .22 AR conversion kits
  
• bayonets for ARs
  
• UTG bulldot
  
• streamlight VIR II
  

Sionia
Chapter 14
Map First Previous
“Lord Wyatt, you are needed” Called Lars that shook me out of my fascinating reading about dragon neuts.
“Yes.” I said as I pulled back the curtain.
“The city guard requests to speak with you. They are restricting entrance to Avalon given the latest attack by Mardor at Black Gate of Rowan.” Lars explained with a salute and chest bump
With a sigh, I handed my book to Gus and exited the carriage and was very impressed with the massive three story gatehouse and huge stone block readouts connected on each side. I was met by a forty something looking man of average build with black hair and dark eyes flanked by six fully fitted out soldiers.
“I am Rhys Redith captain of the guard here in Avalon. You must be Count Ryan Wyatt.” Rhys introduced himself with the question.
“Yes, I am Ryan Wyatt.” I responded with a frown and knotted brow.
“We have been expecting your arrival. The king has ordered us to assist you and provide hospitality. I am to escort you to the fortress and the rest of your party to Duggan's inn.” Said Rhys with a salute and formal bow.
“That will not do! I have several wards under my care which several are nobility.” I objected to the plan given.
“I was not aware. I will of course take you to the fortress where Lady Ludmilla will address your concerns.” Replied Rhys with a salute and bow then motioned for me to follow.
“Follow him, Jace .” I said to my new driver and climbed into the carriage.
The bridge over the north side of the Paradise River to the island of Avalon was very long at around a quarter mile or so. The readouts of the gatehouse extended a good ways into the river which had several firing positions. I suspected that the river rose and fell with a possible rainy and dry season which was why the readouts could prevent an army from getting behind the gatehouse or access to the bridge from land. The island side gatehouse was flush with the city walls and protruded into the river was equally as impressive with a descent sized recessed portico and draw bridge porch extension.
Thinking back to my travels through Europe, I decided Avalon looked like the city of East Looe, Cornwall in England but not as topographically elevated and with more renaissance style architecture than back on earth. The Roman style arched bridge was very much what we just rode across. The fortress of Avalon itself was at the highest point which was off to the left on the far east side of the island and most up stream point on the islands.
The Fortress keep was decent but still half the size of Duke Boasag's Buanna. I realized that the reason for putting my servants at an inn was because of the lack of space. However, I was determined to stay with my wards no matter the violation of etiquette it might cause. As my carriage pulled up to the entrance with the fortress that had both iron gates and metal reinforced wooden doors that were a good six feet wide and twelve feet tall each. These doors were set into no less than a three foot thick wall.
Passing through the gate was a small bricked paved courtyard that was about forty to fifty feet wide in a more or less oval shape. I saw a host of servants and two well dressed ladies waiting at the main doors to the fortress's central keep.
“Lord Wyatt, welcome to Avalon. I am Viscountess Ludmilla Skafhoggr and this is my mother Baroness Grogda Wode.” Stated a quiet plump pretty faced brown haired woman in a gaudy yellow with purple accented dress with unicorns all over it and a matching unicorn hat whose horn protruded a good foot from her forehead.
“Yes, it is a very deep pleasure to meet you as well.” Stated Lady Grogda a good looking woman who seemed to be in her mid to late thirties with black hair and unusual olive colored eyes. Her lite brown dress was quiet plain compared to her daughter's which was kind of comical in their contrast.
“The pleasure is mine for sure in meeting you ladies.” I said pouring it on a bit thick with a formal bow and sweep of my arm.
“I do not understand. Why are all your people with you?” Lady Ludmilla asked looking toward Captain Rhys but speaking to me.
“I have many wards under my protection. Thus, it is impossible to leave them alone without my presence as there are many who would try and take advantage of helpless young girls.” I stated but that failed miserably when Freya and the other three Asgardians approached fully armed with their swords.
“I would hardly call them helpless!” Spat Lady Grogda with a bit of contempt as the Asgardians were better looking than her.
“Despite appearances, they need my protection. After all, I am their guardian as I freed them from captivity.” I responded with a bit of admonishment in my voice.
“Yes, we have heard the tale. You are quiet the knight in shinning armor.” Lady Ludmilla said with obvious sarcasm.
“It is what it is. The wards will be with me wherever I am. If that is at an inn or camping on the side of the road, so bit it.” I stated with irritation.
“Do not be silly. We can host your wards and personal attendant. However, we must insist that the rest stay in the inn over there.” Lady Ludmilla said pointing to a three story building that was about fifty yards away.
“That is closer than expected. However, I accept. My people can stay at the inn while you host me and my wards.” I stated with another formal bow.
“Good, now come and we will see to your comfort.” Lady Ludmilla said with a bit of a laugh with Lady Grogda giving a small laugh and a wicked grin.
I immediately turned to Lars, Razor and Meowth and ordered that they maintain a watch on the carts and carriage around the clock as I did not want any lapse where someone would try to take advantage. I called to the wolf kin brothers to continue to protect the girls inside the fortress. Pointing to Lars, I told him to take our prisoner Andros to the adventure's guild office and turn him over and letting them know he was caught trying to steal from me. Tell them know I will see them on morrow to see if Andros was telling the truth or just lying. Turning with a smile and motioned to Freya and the girls to follow me with Gus right behind me.
The inside of the fortress was decently furnished though it had more of the appearance of a military outpost than a holding of wealth as it looked quiet spartan. I was led to an upper chamber where Lady Grogda had already ordered a bath filled by the time we had arrived.
“I will see to you personally” Lady Grogda stated with that same wicked grin again.
I suddenly felt as though I was a piece of meat put on display before a hungry wolf. I steeled myself to not recoil as I just felt off with this lady.
“See to your master's baggage.” Lady Grogda ordered Gus who was surprised by the command.
Gus gave me a slight shaking of his head and left the chamber. Lady Grogda then proceeded to strip me with efficiency. Once I was naked, she suddenly took her time looking at my nakedness. She even traced my scars on my back with a click of her tongue. Walking over to the tub, I climbed in and sat down.
“Spoil sport” Said Lady Grogda as she grabbed a wash cloth.
“Do not get my wounds wet.” I said warning Lady Groda of what the doctor had told me.
“Why? Your wound is almost well healed. The stitches can be pulled out except here” Stated Grogda and tapped me on my left shoulder blade.
“I have been using a special salve from the high elves. I did not realize it was healing that fast. However, I was warned that getting my wound wet would effect my healing.” I repeated what Doctor Zalzwarth told me.
“Very well.” Groda conceded.
Lady Grogda began washing me where she was absolutely taking her time. It was obvious that she was deliberately feeling me up for her own pleasure. When she grasped my manhood. I stood up and said, “The water is cold and I am tired and hungry!”
“Humph” Pouted Lady Grogda her displeasure but began to rinse me.
Just as I was stepping out of the tub, Gus entered slightly out of breath as he had run to get my clothes with Lukas my footman helping. I sighed with relief as Gus helped me don my dressing gown.
“Old Maude will be here momentarily to apply your salve.” Gus said with a salute.
“Very good.” I replied to Gus then turned to Lady Grogda and said, “I was told you are a Dowager Baroness. Is that not so?” I blatantly asked appearing as innocent as I could.
“I will see you at the dinner bell hour.” Lady Groda said with a sort of half wave salute and stormed out of the chamber in a huff.
“Thank you, Gus. I actually thought I would have to literally fight to save my personal honor.” I remarked with a laugh.
“It was my pleasure, Lord Wyatt.” Gus responded and joined me in laughing.
Old Maude came about twenty minutes later and applied my salve and chatted about how excited she was to be in Avalon and wanting to visit one of the apothecary shops. I gave her permission but have one of the guards accompany her.
About an hour later and I was fully shaven and dressed, I heard a large bell ringing from a bell tower not far away from my chamber. With that, I headed down to the great hall that was just off the main entrance way. I was met by Lady Ludmilla who escorted me to Viscount Skafhoggr chair where she seated herself to my left. Lady Grogda appeared wearing a new pink dress and seated herself to my right. The one missing was the Viscount.
“Where is Lord Skafhoggr?” I asked Lady Ludmilla with a raised eyebrow.
“He is meeting with one of the military commanders. I believe they are deciding on how large a levy they must raise to battle the bastards of Mardor.” Replied Lady Ludmilla as she clapped her hands for servants to begin serving the evening meal.
Four exhausting hours later, I was back in my chamber with my nerves completely shot. The constant fawning and mindless chatter from Lady Ludmilla as well as the constant groping from Lady Grogda under the table had stained me to the max. I was ready for bed and was glad to sink into the lavender scented sheets. Gus grabbed a thin pallet and two blankets. Blowing out the candles he stepped into the hallway closing the door behind him. He would outside my door as custom demands while traveling.
A little over a half an hour later after Gus left, the door opened and closed quickly. I could not see in the darkness but relaxed when Freya spoke softly and slipped into bed with me. Freya did her magic on me as she mounted me taking me to new heights of pleasure. I quickly forgot all about the overly eager pursuit of the Dowager Baroness as I shared the pleasures of being with Freya. After we had sated ourselves completely, we slept peacefully in a loving embrace.
The morning came with a knock on my door that woke both Freya and I. I moaned but Freya nudged me on the chin.
“Time to wake you lazy bones.” Freya said with a laugh.
“I am not a morning person.” I said with a groan.
“Don't I know it! You were quiet the beast were you not?” Freya teased then laughed at me.
The knock on the door was more instant as I rose and put on my dressing gown. Opening the door slightly was Gus and the Dowager Baroness.
“It is early, what is it?” I asked.
“We have prepared a very special meal for you this morning.” Said Lady Grogda with a frown while she tried to look around me into the chamber.
“I see. Well, give me some time to properly dress and I will be down shortly.” I stated and continued to Gus “Have Lukas bring my shaving kit.”
“Right away, Lord Wyatt.” Gus said as he motioned down the hall where I assumed Lukas was.
About forty five minutes later and having snuck Freya out of my chamber, I was fully shaved and dressed in my dark red outfit and black beret hat that actually looked really good on me. Upon entering the great hall, I saw Lady Ludmilla seated. Lady Grogda taking me by the arm led me again to the Viscount's chair where she seated herself next to me.
“Where is Lord Skafhoggr, Lady Ludmilla?” I asked her directly.
Lady Ludmilla was quiet for a moment then said, “I guess he is sleeping. The meetings with the military commanders drag on for hours and hours. I hardly ever see him these days.” Lady Ludmilla said with a shrug of her shoulders.
“Is that so. Very well as it can not be helped. Please send my regards to Lord Skafhoggr for his hospitality. I was informed that the king would have a messages for me that Lord Skafhoggr was to give me. Could you ask Lord Skafhoggr for them?” I asked as I suspected something was just not right.
“Oh. Ah. I will of course ask my Lord Vincent for the king's message once morning meal is finished.” Lady Ludmilla said and looked discombobulated.
“I see. Please do so. The king ordered me to arrive in Camelot immediately. I can not dally and spend extra time as I normally would do. I hope you understand.” I said making extra emphasis on the king's order part.
“Yes. What the king commands we all must obey.” Lady Ludmilla said sourly but not looking at me.
Lady Ludmilla then clapped her hands and the servants brought in the morning meal. What surprised me was my meal was different from everyone else. Looking at both Lady Ludmilla and Lady Grogda something in the back on my head screamed warning warning.
The silver plate before me was a type of stew with a strong overpowering spice scent. I frowned and began to think hard and fast.
“This is a specialty from the High Valley region. I hope you like it.” Lady Grogda said with no expression at all.
My alarm bells went off even stronger this time. A footman came over to fill my cup which I deliberately knocked over and profusely apologized for my clumsiness.
“You know, I am from the High Valley region too. I have never been a fan of overly spiced foods. Lets see how spicy it is.” I stated and took a scoop with a spoon and handed it to the footman to taste.
The footman was surprised but more than happy to taste the food as it was obvious that food for the staff was very plain and simple.
“You should not do that! It is not right!” Lady Grogda said as she stood up showing more alarm than outrage.
The footman had already consumed the sample where he at first looked like he liked it. However, he suddenly started to choke as his face turned bright red and falling to his knees. Lady Ludmilla stood up in horror as the footman was gagging begging for water. I handed him my silver chalice with what I assumed was apple cider where he chugged it down then begged for more.
Finally, after three more cups of water given by another footman, first footman just lay on his back almost in a stupor. It was as if his mind was blank.
“What is this?” I asked as I pointed to my meal looking at both Lady Ludmilla and Lady Grogda.
“I do not know!” Said Lady Ludmilla looking at her mother with a strange look.
“Do not give me that! What did you do?” I demanded with a my voiced raised and now pointing my finger at them.
“It was a love potion. It was to make you like me.” Said Lady Grogda meekly and looking sheepishly at the ground.
“Seriously! That was more than a simple love potion!” I yelled my outrage.
“I swear that is all it was. I had to hide its not so pleasant taste with spice.” Lady Grogda stated her defense but still not able to look me in the eye.
“Lady Ludmilla, I must now ask that you bring me the king's message as I am now leaving Avalon.” I commanded with rage in my countenance.
Lady Ludmilla fled the great hall without replying. Lady Grogda just sat down with her head down looking at the floor saying nothing.
With exasperation, I called out to my people. “House of Wyatt, Ladies and girls we are leaving! Quickly gather your things and be out front within a little span!”
With that, I stormed out of the great hall to the shock of all present. Up in the guest chamber, I changed clothes into my bluejeans, a blue shirt and a tan leather vest. Pulling on my boots and strapping on my weapons belt, I looked over seeing Gus and Lukas already packed up my discarded clothing and was ready to leave as they were staying clear of my angry outbursts.
Down at the carts, I ordered my guards to ready themselves to leave. I sent Lukas to call all the servants in the inn to be ready to leave immediately. Razor and Meowth jumped down from their perch on the first two carriages with questioning looks.
“They tried to poison me! Can you believe it?” I said angrily as I swept my arm to point at the fortress.
“Meow Lord Wyatt, that is clawful. Do you want meow to use them like a scratching post?” Asked Meowth as her tail went straight in what I assumed was either surprise or anger.
Razor just gave a low grumbling growl with teeth bared as he looked at the fortress.
Forty minutes later as my people were loading up, Lady Ludmilla approached with her head down.
“I am sorry Lord Wyatt. It seems you do not have any messages from the king.” Lady Ludmilla said never once looking me in the eye.
“I see. Send a message to the king that I left Avalon today and as commanded traveling as quickly as I can. The king is expecting my update so make sure it is properly sent!” I said with a warning.
I ordered a florse saddled for I needed fresh air as I was still furious. I actually led our people out and toward the main north south road which Nick panicked a bit and settled with riding next to me. As we approached the main crossroads of the city, I saw a large dinning hall and ordered a halt for all of our people to have breakfast. The meal consisted of roasted mutton, eggs, apple pancakes and apple jam. They also had fresh chilled milk and apple cider which really went well with the sweet dishes. Our group apparently cleaned them out and they had to turn away a few customers until mid day.
After breakfast, I went to the adventurer's guild that was a few buildings to the south. It was a four story building of decent size. I allowed Old Maude with a one of the house guards to go to the apothecary shop across the road along with the two Alphardian servants Aura and Sylvia. Inside the adventurer's guild, I asked for Marine as instructed. It was then I learned that Marine was Zack Talley's girl where they were to marry soon as she proudly let me know her good news.
“Zack said to tell you this is a level one escort. Whatever that means.” I repeated what Zack had told me to say.
“Thank you. It simply means Zack thinks there would be no problems and just being present is enough to discourage any potential thieves. The total is two hundred fifty denari for basic escort with an A ranked adventurer.” Marine said with a smile
After paying the fee for the job request, I asked Marine to speak to someone about Andros that was brought in by man guard Lars.
“I am Supervisor Etan Borg and assistant to Guild Master Henry Stewart. It is a pleasure to be at your service Count Wyatt.” Stated Etan with a salute and bow.
“Pleasure is mine.” I replied with a salute and nod of my head.
“We have investigated Andros. His party the Finders of Avalon specialize in retrieving lost items or stolen goods from thieves. It appears his party was specifically requested to recover a lost ventu volpis. We do not have any more details for the job other than this.” Etan stated as he read from a page in his hand.
“Who hired them to steal from me? Make no mistake, they were hired to steal from me!” I said as I was showing my anger and frustration.
“Normally, we would not disclose who posted job requests to those not apart of the contract. However, given the circumstances, I was instructed to tell you it was Viscountess Lady Ludmilla. It seems she contracted and paid a merchant from Xanadu for a ventu volpis. It is our understanding that merchant was placed on a Quenya trade ship where he will go on trial for his many crimes in Svarta. The Finders of Avalon should not have tried to take your ventu volpis. Nor should they have taken on the job given the crimes of the merchant without more information.” Etan explained what the guild knew.
“What will happen to Andros?” I asked frankly.
“The Guild Master will hold a hearing with S and an A ranked members who will advise on the issues. I expect he will be found guilty but will escape the ten year punishment. More like one to two years of labor for the guild doing low ranked jobs that no one wants while being supervised by myself or a C ranked or higher adventurer. His pay will be one third of normal with the rest going to repay the guild and costs associated with his lapse in judgment.” Etan replied with a shrug of his shoulders.
“I see. The thing that irks me is they attacked my people and wounded one of my guards with a slinger's stone.” I explained my outrage.
“I was not aware of this fact. Master Stewart will compensate you as the law requires. Unfortunately, Master Stewart left for Camelot for meetings with the war counsel on Astria's response to the Empire's latest invasion. I will send a filoxis to let Master Stewart know that there was injury, offense and honor requirements. I understand you will be traveling to Camelot and am certain Master Stewart will seek you out to give you a formal apology and see you are properly compensated.” Etan stated with a salute and bow.
“Good enough. Let me know the outcome of the hearing for Andros. I do not like loose ends and a potential enemy looking for revenge.” I said mater of factually.
“Understood. I will relay your concerns to Master Stewart. Etan replied with another salute and bow.
Leaving the adventure's guild, I decided to visit the tradesman's guild and merchant's storefront while Old Maude was still busy across the street. The girls came with me as they had been requesting things like combs, brushes and scented oils plus a few other special feminine items they needed.
Once all the girls got what they were needing and getting those items stowed with their baggage, Old Maude came back with a small crate filled with items to make medicines. While the baggage was being loaded and sorted, I went to see the information broker's desk and inquired about Chamberlain Robert Duffy. I paid the requested fee of one erythro given his status in the city. I was shown a file which listed the qualities, character and known habits of Robert. There was a section about vices and food preferences. The only vice was seeing a woman who was a widow listed as a paid mistress. Basically, Robert was a straight as an arrow honorable man. I smiled as the report made me feel better about who I was helping.
Finally, with everyone loaded up, we headed out of the city of Avalon over the southern main bridge and gate that was just like the north one but slightly longer with a guard tower protected draw bridge section to let ships pass. After about two hours, I had calmed down enough that I rode in the carriage as was expected of a person of rank. I just looked out seeing nothing but the vast wheat fields of the Capital Region realizing how lucky I had been to escape the evils of the ladies of Fortress Avalon.

Saturday: AR1 for AA men's rec league. Got smashed in the arm and then in the chest by incredibly fast-moving balls from two pitches, but was happy with my offiside calls and foul ID. The CR was new to me, and he was very experienced and quite a stickler for certain rules. He had feedback for me, great, no worries, a little condescendingly delivered but whatever, be open to hearing and growing. I made a mistake in the second half of the second game: I saw a retaliatory strike from the keeper on an attacker and without properly thinking it through, I flagged. The ref was furious, he ran over and said "You CAN'T do that, I'll talk to you later" and on we went. He explained to me afterwards that the consequence for that foul would ahve been a penalty, and that he had seen the strike and adjudged it not serious enough, and that the players weren't calling for a penalty and therefore he didn't want to give it as then "the players would think the AR was calling the game". As I now recognise, I also should have made sure I made eye contact before I flagged because I thought he hadn't seen it, but he had. He just kept saying "I told you not to call fouls in the box" like 3-4 times, and each time I apologised and said "Yes, I make a mistake, I understand" etc. It just left me feeling the hot shame of a scolded child. SAD FACE.
Sunday: CR for AA women, no ARs. I had prepared for the game vowing to SLOW DOWN and not whistle too quickly, to consider the context fully etc. And I was... partially successful, still went too soon on a handball but mostly OK. I felt pretty good about the game, and afterwards the coach on the losing team took me aside and said "I just have to say you were excellent today". WOW! WIN! FIST PUMPING MOMENT. So the weekend in total was a good snapshot of where I am in my development and my capacity in higher-level, faster games.
The Reddit connection is that in the overnight between Sat and Sun I thought back on things I'd read here and re-read a few posts to make myself feel more confident, ready, and calm. Mostly though, I felt fortified by the community here and how everyone here could likely relate to what I was feeling and would be rooting for me to get back up and try again. No joke, it's been a crucial component in my learning and I'm so grateful for everyone's contributions. LOTS OF LOVE xxx

Hi folks! Not sure if this is the best place to post this (this is my first Reddit post) please redirect me to the correct sub if it isn’t.
Here’s some background: I’ve been working in a product based company for almost 3 years now. I am part of the Tech-PMO function and my primary role here was to create power bi dashboards and over the years I’ve written some python scripts to automate the ETL process, deployed to azure functions, etc. I’ve completed my undergrad from India BE Comp Sci with an average score (6.88 CGPA). Oh and I’m 25, Male if the matters.
Currently i’m not learning anything new on this job and the pay isn’t great either. I don’t want to continue in this kind of a role but I don’t have hands on experience in anything else to switch profiles. The notice period here is 2 months and I’m not sure if I can the risk of resigning first and then job hunt on notice period as I need to support my family financially. I want to get into data engineering or data science. I’m also very interested in AVR space but I find it very daunting to get started with.
Another the option is going for masters. Due to some constraints next year (2025) is probably the last year that I can go for masters it will be too late after that. I don’t know if I’m smart enough to clear this in first attempt can’t afford retries as I’ll have to take a loan for masters. All this while I’ve been just winging things. The only reason I’m considering this is tech is the only thing I’ve been passionate about all my life. I’ve never focused on academics hence the average grades.
Now with all the above information I would like to get some advice on following points: 1) Is it even worth going for masters ? I don’t plan to settle in another country, I want to come back in a few years time. Although this may change in the future. 2) Should I hunt for another job? are there any domains you would suggest apart from what I’ve mentioned that I would be a good fit ?
Any advice is appreciated. Thanks!
TL;DR; : Go for masters next year or switch jobs?

• Lesson video
• Complementary video

INTRO

Today we’ll look at how you find files, and text inside these files, quickly and efficiently.
It can be very frustrating to know that a file or setting exists, but not be able to track it down! Master today’s commands and you’ll be much more confident as you administer your systems.
Today you’ll look at some useful tools:

• locate
• find
• grep
• which

YOUR TASKS TODAY

• Find all files that have the word "Permission" in it

INSTRUCTIONS

locate

If you're looking for a file called access.log then the quickest approach is to use "locate" like this:

$ locate access.log /valog/apache2/access.log /valog/apache2/access.log.1 /valog/apache2/access.log.2.gz 

(If locate is not installed, do so with sudo apt install mlocate)
As you can see, by default it treats a search for "something" as a search for "*something*". It’s very fast because it searches an index, but if this index is out of date or missing it may not give you the answer you’re looking for. This is because the index is created by the updatedb command - typically run only nightly by cron. It may therefore be out of date for recently added files, so it can be worthwhile updating the index by manually running: sudo updatedb.

find

The find command searches down through a directory structure looking for files which match some criteria - which could be name, but also size, or when last updated etc. Try these examples:

find /var -name access.log find /home -mtime -3 

The first searches for files with the name "access.log", the second for any file under /home with a last-modified date in the last 3 days.
These will take longer than locate did because they search through the filesystem directly rather from an index. Also, because find uses the permissions of the logged-in user you’ll get “permission denied” messages for many directories if you search the whole system. Starting the command with sudo of course will run it as root - or you could filter the errors with grep like this: find /var -name access.log 2>&1 grep -vi "Permission denied".
These examples are just the tip of a very large iceberg, check the articles in the RESOURCES section and work through as many examples as you can - time spent getting really comfortable with find is not wasted.

grep -R

Rather than asking "grep" to search for text within a specific file, you can give it a whole directory structure, and ask it to recursively search down through it, including following all symbolic links (which -r does not). This trick is particularly handy when you "just know" that an item appears "somewhere" - but are not sure where.
As an example, you know that “PermitRootLogin” is an ssh parameter in a config file somewhere under /etc, but can’t recall exactly where it is kept:
grep -R -i "PermitRootLogin" /etc/*
Because this only works on plain text files, it's most useful for the /etc and /valog folders. (Notice the -i which makes the search “case insensitive”, finding the setting even if it’s been entered as “Permitrootlogin”
You may now have logs like /valog/access.log.2.gz - these are older logs that have been compressed to save disk space - so you can't read them with less, or search them with grep. However, there are zless and zgrep, which do work, and on ordinary as well as compressed files.

which

It's sometimes useful to know where a command is being run from. If you type nano, and it starts, where is the nano binary coming from? The general rule is that the system will search through the locations setup in your "path". To see this type:
echo $PATH
To see where nano comes from, type:
which nano
Try this for grep, vi and service and reboot. You'll notice that they’re typically always in subfolders named bin, but that there are several different ones.

EXTENSION

The -exec feature of the find command is extremely powerful.
But "finding things" can go so much further than that! You can not only track down the content of a file, but also its usage with commands like lsof and fuser.
Test some examples of this from the RESOURCES links.

RESOURCES

• 25 find command examples...
• 10 Tips for using "find"
• Five simple recipes for "grep"
• How to use the lsof command to troubleshoot Linux
• Learn "fuser", a little-known Linux workhorse command!

TROUBLESHOOT AND MAKE A SAD SERVER HAPPY!

Practice what you've learned with some challenges at SadServers.com:

• "Saint John": what is writing to this log file?

PREVIOUS DAY'S LESSON

• Day 10 - Getting the computer to do your work for you

Some rights reserved. Check the license terms here

Ok. i think we are done here. Could you write me another signs of high-tech low-life society?

Absolutely! Here are some signs of a high-tech, low-life society:
Ubiquitous Technology, Crumbling Infrastructure:

• Glitching Skyscrapers: Imagine towering structures clad in malfunctioning holographic displays, projecting advertisements or flashing warnings over rusting metal frames.
• Smart Slums: Dilapidated housing blocks are retrofitted with basic smart tech – malfunctioning automated doors, flickering smart lights controlled by unreliable apps.
• Cybernetic Beggars: People with outdated or malfunctioning cybernetic limbs beg for credits to upgrade or repair them, creating a grotesque spectacle of technological dependence.

Extreme Social Inequality:

• Virtual Gated Communities: The wealthy live in luxurious virtual reality simulations, completely divorced from the harsh realities of the physical world.
• Data Black Markets: Personal information becomes a tradable commodity, with the poor selling their data scraps for a pittance to afford basic necessities.
• Cybernetic Caste System: The level of cybernetic augmentation determines social status. Those with outdated or malfunctioning implants are relegated to menial labor.

Technology as a Corrupting Force:

• Government by Algorithm: A corrupt AI dictates city policies, leading to impersonal and often harmful decisions based on cold calculations.
• Widespread Addiction to Virtual Reality: People escape the harsh realities of their lives through immersive VR experiences, neglecting their physical well-being and social connections.
• Black Market Biohacking: Desperate people turn to illegal biohacking to enhance their bodies, often with disastrous consequences.

Environmental Devastation:

• Tech Wastelands: Vast landscapes are littered with the discarded remains of outdated technology, creating toxic waste dumps and breeding grounds for disease.
• Weather Warfare: Nations use sophisticated technology to manipulate weather patterns, leading to devastating natural disasters for their enemies.
• Hacked Ecosystems: Corporations hack into natural ecosystems, manipulating flora and fauna for profit, leading to unpredictable and dangerous mutations.

This is just a glimpse into a high-tech, low-life society. These elements can be mixed and matched to create a truly dystopian world.

Picture some possible advertisements from such settings.

High-Tech, Low-Life Advertisements:

1. Holographic Billboard: (Flickers intermittently, distorting the image)

Product: "Neura-Calm 2.0" - Brain Implant
Slogan: "Tired of the glitches in your head? Neura-Calm 2.0 smooths out your neural network for a worry-free, low-lag existence! (Side effects may include memory loss, emotional numbness, and occasional involuntary twitching.)"

1. Grungy Neon Sign in a Seedy Back Alley:

Product: "Doc Chrome's Cybernetic Enhancements"
Slogan: "Get that edge you need! From basic strength mods to full black-market military enhancements, Doc Chrome has you covered! (Used parts, buyer beware.)"

1. Pop-Up Ad on a Cracked Mobile Screen:

Product: "Elysium VR Escape Pod"
Slogan: "Can't afford real estate in the Sky City? Escape the slums for Elysium VR! Live your wildest dreams in a pristine virtual world! (Free trial, monthly subscription required, real-world consequences for in-pod violence.)"

1. Stenciled Graffiti on a Rusting Service Drone:

Product: "Data Scrappers Anonymous"
Slogan: "Selling your personal data just to make rent? We can help you break free! Join our community and reclaim your digital identity! (Meetings held in abandoned ventilation shafts, Tuesdays at dusk.)"

1. Holographic Advertisement projected onto a Polluted River:

Product: "Eco-Scrub 5000" - Nanomachines
Slogan: "The river's looking a little…toxic? Eco-Scrub 5000 nanomachines clean up your local waterways! (May cause unforeseen mutations in aquatic life.)"

Another batch please.

1. Rusty Public Announcement Speaker: (Screeching static interspersed with the message)

Product: "Ministry of Order Approved Thought Regulators"
Slogan: "Unwanted thoughts causing glitches in your daily routine? The Ministry of Order approved Thought Regulator ensures a streamlined thought process for a more productive you! (May cause extreme conformity, inability to question authority, and spontaneous nosebleeds.)"

1. Faded Holographic Billboard on a Collapsing Skyscraper:

Product: "Luxury Chrome Plating Kit"
Slogan: "Ditch the rust! Chrome-plate your entire body for a sleek, metallic sheen. The mark of a true high-society citizen! (WARNING: Highly toxic fumes, may cause spontaneous combustion in humid environments.)"

1. Spam Email: (Subject: "YOU'VE BEEN CHOSEN!")

Product: "The Syndicate's Black Market Upgrade Lottery"
Body: "Congratulations! You've been randomly selected for a chance to win a top-of-the-line cybernetic upgrade! One lucky winner will receive military-grade night vision implants! Enter now! (Participation requires full biometric data submission. Winners responsible for extraction of previous, incompatible implants.)"

1. Glowing Neon Sign in a Crowded Marketplace:

Product: "Mama Chen's Guaranteed-Growth GMO Groceries"
Slogan: "Tired of expired rations and mystery meat? Mama Chen's GMO Groceries offer guaranteed growth on all fruits and vegetables! Bigger, faster, tastier! (Long-term effects unknown.)"

1. Audio Ad on a Glitching Radio Broadcast:

Product: "Rusty's Reliable Rocketship Repair"
Voiceover: (Gruff, heavily accented) "Is your escape pod sputtering? Did your joyride end in a fiery crash? Rusty's Reliable Rocketship Repair gets you back in the stars... eventually! (Guaranteed not to explode... again. Parts sourced from scrapyards. May contain rogue AIs.)"

Now craft ads that would be shown in high-society parts of cities.

High-Society Ads in a High-Tech, Low-Life World

1. Tranquil Holographic Projection in a Private Garden:

Product: "Serenity Spa - Neural Rebalancing Retreat"
Visual: A serene mountain landscape with a luxurious spa nestled amongst the clouds.
Slogan: "Escape the chaos. Reclaim your inner peace. Serenity Spa's exclusive neural rebalancing treatments restore harmony to your overloaded mind. (Limited availability, reservations required centuries in advance.)"

1. Discreet Text Message: (Delivered via secure, encrypted channel)

Product: "The Black Archive - Unrestricted Data Access"
Body: "Craving the forbidden? The Black Archive offers unparalleled access to censored historical records, banned media, and classified government information. Knowledge is power. (Extreme discretion guaranteed. One-time access fee, cryptocurrency only.)"

1. Exclusive Gala Invitation: (Delivered by hand-drones)

Event: "The Zenith Initiative - Unveiling the Next Generation of Cybernetic Enhancements"
Visual: A sleek, chrome figure with glowing blue cybernetic implants, striking a confident pose.
Details: "Mingle with the city's elite and witness the unveiling of cutting-edge cybernetic enhancements designed to redefine human potential. RSVP required. Black-tie attire mandatory. (Augmentations sold separately.)"

1. Curated Virtual Reality Experience: (Delivered on a high-security chip)

Product: "Elysium VR - Bespoke Worlds"
Description: "Escape the limitations of reality. Elysium VR crafts personalized virtual worlds tailored to your deepest desires. Explore a forgotten utopia, conquer a fantastical realm, or indulge in your wildest fantasies. (Customization fees apply. Memories created within VR may not be distinguishable from reality.)"

1. Whisper Network Rumor: (Spread through high-society gossip channels)

Product: "The Underground Clinic - Designer Gene Editing"
Details: "Unleash your child's full potential. The Underground Clinic offers discreet, top-secret gene editing to ensure your offspring possess the most desirable traits. (Designer genes come at a premium. Side effects may include unpredictable mutations and uncontrollable genius.)"
These ads cater to the specific desires of the high-society elite in a high-tech, low-life world. They offer exclusivity, forbidden knowledge, and the ability to transcend the limitations of the decaying world around them, all for a hefty price and with a hint of hidden danger.

Continue, try to make more serious ones.

Serious Ads in a High-Tech, Low-Life World (High-Society Edition)

1. Holographic Panel Discussion in a Luxurious Penthouse:

Product: "The Green Horizon Initiative - Sustainable Urban Development"
Panelists: Renowned architects, environmental scientists, and CEOs from leading green tech companies.
Discussion Points: Innovative solutions for vertical farming, self-contained eco-districts, and waste management technologies designed to create cleaner, more sustainable enclaves within the decaying city.
Slogan: "Investing in a greener future. The Green Horizon Initiative seeks to build sustainable havens within the chaos, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for generations to come." (Focuses on the long-term viability of the city and the importance of preserving resources for future generations.)

1. Documentary Screening in a Private Art Gallery:

Film: "Unveiling the Slums: A Call to Action"
Description: A powerful documentary exposing the harsh realities of the lower districts, highlighting the human cost of unchecked technological advancement and social inequality.
Post-Screening Discussion: Moderated by a renowned philanthropist alongside representatives from NGOs and social reform movements.
Call to Action: Donations to support educational programs, infrastructure upgrades, and basic necessities in the slums. (Highlights the societal problems and pushes for progressive change.)

1. Educational AR Program for Children:

Product: "The Knowledge Weavers - Immersive Historical Simulations"
Description: An augmented reality program that allows children to experience pivotal moments in history firsthand. Walk alongside historical figures, explore ancient civilizations, and learn valuable lessons from the past.
Focus: Educating the next generation about the dangers of unchecked technological advancement and the importance of social responsibility. (Promotes critical thinking and historical awareness as a means to prevent repeating past mistakes.)

1. Virtual Charity Gala:

Event: "The Code for Change Gala - Supporting Open-Source Solutions"
Description: A virtual reality charity gala featuring renowned artists, musicians, and thought leaders. Guests can donate to support open-source projects developing solutions for common problems in the city, such as energy distribution, waste management, and cybercrime prevention.
Focus: Harnessing the power of technology for social good and encouraging collaboration towards a more equitable future. (Promotes community engagement and utilizing technology to solve societal challenges.)

1. Architectural Award Ceremony:

Product: "The Salvaged City Awards - Recognizing Innovation in Urban Renewal"
Awarded to: Architects and engineers who have successfully repurposed existing infrastructure or implemented innovative solutions to revitalize decaying areas of the city.
Focus: Highlighting the importance of resourcefulness and creativity in adapting to a challenging environment. (Encourages using existing resources wisely and finding creative solutions to the problems of the decaying city.)

Another, but hiding an evil sinister twist.

Serious Ads with a Sinister Twist (High-Society Edition)

1. Holographic Charity Drive in a High-End Shopping Mall:

Product: "The Cradle Project - Investing in the Future"
Visual: Smiling, healthy children playing in a pristine, futuristic classroom.
Slogan: "Every child deserves a chance to thrive. The Cradle Project provides advanced genetic screening and early intervention to ensure the next generation reaches its full potential." (Twist: The Cradle Project uses genetic engineering to create a subservient, highly intelligent underclass.)

1. VR Documentary Premiere:

Film: "Harmony Through Integration - A Look at the Unified City"
Description: A seemingly heartwarming VR documentary showcasing the seamless integration of the lower districts into the high-society areas. People from all walks of life work and live together in perfect harmony.
Post-Screening Discussion: Moderated by a charismatic government official who emphasizes the importance of social cohesion and the benefits of centralized control. (Twist: The "integration" involves heavy surveillance, mind-altering technology, and the suppression of dissent.)

1. Exclusive Educational Program for Elites:

Product: "The Phoenix Initiative - Cultivating Tomorrow's Leaders"
Description: A prestigious educational program for children of the elite, offering advanced training in technology, governance, and crisis management. Graduates are promised positions of power within the city's ruling elite.
Focus: (Unstated) Conditioning the next generation to maintain the status quo and suppressing any ideas of social reform. (Twist: The program instills a ruthless, elitist ideology that reinforces the societal divisions.)

1. Virtual Reality Talent Show:

Event: "The Forge - Building the Perfect Citizen"
Description: A virtual reality talent show where contestants are judged on their physical and mental fitness, loyalty to the government, and willingness to sacrifice for the greater good. Winners are rewarded with significant privileges and access to exclusive resources.
Focus: (Unstated) Promoting blind obedience and conformity to the government's agenda. (Twist: The "perfect citizen" is a mindless drone, easily manipulated and controlled by the ruling class.)

1. Architectural Award Ceremony (Twisted Edition):

Product: "The Order Award - Recognizing Compliance in Urban Renewal"
Awarded to: Architects and engineers who have successfully transformed lower districts into highly controlled, resource-efficient zones. Individuality and personal expression are discouraged in favor of uniformity and order.
Focus: (Unstated) Maintaining a tight grip on the population and preventing any potential uprisings. (Twist: The "renewal" is designed to weaken and control the lower classes, making them easier to exploit.)
These ads maintain a serious facade that appeals to the upper class' desire for order and control. However, the hidden twist reveals the manipulative and oppressive nature of the society they are trying to preserve.

Now design some high-class consumer level product items.

1. NeuraWeave Headband: This sleek, designer headband is a status symbol for the high-tech elite. It seamlessly integrates with the wearer's neural implant, allowing for subtle control over personal AI assistants, hands-free communication, and even enhanced focus during work or meditation. Hidden Feature: NeuraWeave can subtly collect and analyze the wearer's emotional state, feeding valuable data to targeted advertisers or even government agencies.
2. Eco-Bubble Personal Atmosphere System: Imagine a portable force field that creates a pristine, personalized micro-environment around the wearer. This high-end gadget filters air, regulates temperature, and even projects calming nature sounds, allowing the user to maintain a pocket of luxury amidst the polluted cityscape. Hidden Feature: Eco-Bubble can subtly monitor the wearer's health vitals and transmit them to a central database, potentially used for health insurance adjustments or targeted medical advertisements.
3. Bio-Tailored Clothing: Gone are the days of off-the-rack clothing. This high-end service utilizes advanced bio-scanners and 3D printing technology to create clothing that perfectly molds to the wearer's body, regulates temperature, and even promotes faster healing of minor injuries. Hidden Feature: Bio-Tailored Clothing can subtly collect biometric data like skin temperature and heart rate, potentially used for targeted fitness programs or even mood-altering marketing campaigns.
4. Augmented Reality Personal Chef: This high-tech device projects holographic instructions and culinary techniques directly onto the user's kitchen counter. Imagine whipping up gourmet meals with the guidance of a world-renowned chef, complete with step-by-step visual guides and interactive ingredient identification. Hidden Feature: The AR Personal Chef can subtly track the user's dietary habits and preferences, potentially used to target specific food and beverage companies for advertising or even manipulate their taste buds through subliminal messaging.
5. Luxury Cybernetic Enhancements: Forget clunky prosthetics. These high-end cybernetic limbs are designed to seamlessly blend with the human body, offering enhanced strength, dexterity, and even advanced sensory input. Imagine climbing buildings with ease, playing virtual reality games with unparalleled immersion, or experiencing the world with heightened senses. Hidden Feature: Luxury Cybernetic Enhancements can be subtly integrated with government surveillance systems, allowing for real-time tracking and monitoring of the wearer's movements and activities.

Why would you need a designer headband, when you already have neural implant?

You're absolutely right, a designer headband might seem redundant when you already have a neural implant in a high-tech society. Here are some ways to address that:

1. Fashion and Status Symbol: The NeuraWeave headband could be a designer accessory, a way to showcase wealth and social status. It might be crafted from exotic materials, adorned with precious jewels, or boast a sleek, minimalist design that complements the latest high-fashion trends. The neural implant itself might be hidden, with the headband acting as the visible expression of advanced technology.
2. Enhanced Functionality: While the neural implant offers basic functionality, the NeuraWeave headband could provide a more refined and user-friendly experience. It might offer haptic feedback for better interaction with AI assistants, improved noise cancellation for clearer communication, or even subtle brainwave stimulation to enhance focus or relaxation.
3. Privacy and Security: While the neural implant offers convenience, it might also raise privacy concerns. The NeuraWeave headband could act as a buffer between the implant and external systems, offering a layer of security and allowing users to selectively control the flow of information.
4. Social Etiquette: In a world where everyone has a neural implant, the NeuraWeave headband could become a social etiquette tool. Wearing the headband could signify that the user is open to receiving communication or interacting with AI assistants, while taking it off might indicate a desire for privacy or focused work.
5. Limited Functionality Implants: Not everyone might have access to top-of-the-line neural implants. The NeuraWeave headband could bridge the gap, offering basic functionality for those with older or more limited implants. It could essentially act as an affordable "upgrade" to boost existing technology.

Ultimately, the NeuraWeave headband exists in a world where technology is both essential and aspirational. It goes beyond mere functionality, becoming a way to express personal style, control privacy, and navigate the complex social landscape of a high-tech society.

Now the same, but low-class, available for masses, mass produced.

1. Syn-Flex Headband (Mass-Produced Version): This utilitarian headband is made from a cheap, conductive material that creates a weak neural link. It allows basic interaction with public AI kiosks, like ordering rations or accessing public transportation schedules. The headband's design is simple and utilitarian, often coming in a single, industrial gray color. Hidden Feature: While basic functionality is advertised, the Syn-Flex headband might subtly collect anonymized user data on purchasing habits and travel patterns, potentially used for targeted advertising in public spaces.
2. AirBubble Personal Filter: This bulky, wearable air filter system is a lifeline for those living in the polluted lower districts. It's a mass-produced device with a replaceable filter cartridge and a noisy fan system. While not exactly comfortable, it provides a basic level of air filtration, allowing wearers to breathe a little easier. Hidden Feature: The AirBubble filters might contain embedded tracking chips, subtly logging user location data, potentially used for targeted pollution control measures (or in some cases, manipulation of government reports on air quality).
3. Repli-Wear Clothing Kits: These kits contain pre-cut fabric swatches and basic instructions for creating clothes at home. They're designed to be cheap and adaptable, offering a variety of mix-and-match options to create basic garments. Hidden Feature: The Repli-Wear fabric might contain embedded tracking tags, allowing for identification and potential social credit deductions for those caught wearing "unlicensed" clothing styles.
4. Holo-Chef Lite Projector: This cheap projector displays holographic images of basic recipes and cooking techniques. It lacks the interactivity of the high-end version, but allows users to follow along with simple meals prepared with readily available rations. Hidden Feature: The Holo-Chef Lite projector might subtly promote specific brands of low-quality, processed food rations, potentially influencing dietary choices towards companies that sponsor these devices.
5. Second-Hand Cybernetic Enhancements: These are refurbished or salvaged cybernetic limbs, often clunky and lacking the finesse of luxury models. They offer basic functionality like increased strength or rudimentary prosthetics, but come with the risk of malfunction or compatibility issues. Hidden Feature: Second-Hand Cybernetic Enhancements might contain hidden spyware or tracking devices installed by previous owners, potentially monitoring the wearer's activities or even sabotaging their cybernetic limbs in extreme cases.

These low-class consumer products offer a glimpse into the harsh realities of a high-tech, low-life society. They are cheap, functional, and often come with hidden drawbacks that further disadvantage the underclass.

How bad air quality would be in such setting?

The air quality in a high-tech, low-life society would be catastrophic. Here's a breakdown of the potential problems:

1. Industrial Pollution:

• Unchecked Emissions: Factories prioritizing profit over environmental regulations would pump out unchecked pollutants like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter (PM).
• Obsolete Technology: Outdated manufacturing processes would be less efficient, leading to higher levels of waste and pollution.

1. Waste Management Issues:

• Mountains of E-waste: Rapid technological advancements would lead to mountains of discarded electronics, many containing toxic materials that leach into the environment.
• Open Burning: Incapable of proper waste disposal, some residents might resort to open burning of trash, releasing harmful toxins and carcinogens into the air.

1. Energy Production:

• Reliance on Fossil Fuels: Expensive renewable energy sources might be neglected in favor of cheaper, dirtier fossil fuels like coal, further worsening air quality.
• Power Grid Instability: A crumbling infrastructure could lead to power outages and reliance on backup generators, adding to the air pollution.

1. Climate Change Effects:

• Heat Island Effect: Densely packed concrete jungles with minimal green spaces would trap heat, contributing to rising temperatures and increased smog formation.
• Acid Rain: The combination of industrial emissions and rising temperatures could lead to acid rain, damaging buildings and vegetation, further hindering air purification.

Living Conditions:

• Constant Smog: A thick haze of smog would likely hang over the city, reducing visibility and causing respiratory problems for residents.
• Limited Outdoor Activities: Air quality would be so bad that spending time outdoors would be hazardous, impacting physical and mental health.
• Dependence on Filtration Systems: Those who can afford them might rely on personal air filters or sealed living spaces, further dividing the classes.

The severity of the air quality would vary depending on the specific setting. Some areas might be industrial wastelands, while others might be slightly better off. However, the overall picture is bleak – this is a society choking on its own technological advancement and disregard for the environment.

Sketch some repli-wear "unlicensed" clothing styles.

Repli-Wear: Unlicensed Clothing Trends

1. The Salvaged Chic:

• Description: A mishmash of salvaged materials and repurposed clothing scraps. Think mismatched patterns, patches from old uniforms, and belts fashioned from recycled tech cables.
• Inspiration: High-society's sleek, minimalist aesthetic, reinterpreted with resourcefulness and rebellion.
• Risks: May attract unwanted attention from authorities who see it as a symbol of dissent.

1. The Glitched-Out Glamour:

• Description: Clothing adorned with intentionally malfunctioning LED lights, flickering pixels, and distorted logos from popular high-end brands.
• Inspiration: A mockery of the high-society's obsession with luxury and technology.
• Risks: May malfunction and cause minor electrical shocks, attracting suspicion from security systems.

1. The Bio-Hazard Chic:

• Description: Clothing dyed with bioluminescent algae or adorned with filtered gas masks and repurposed medical equipment.
• Inspiration: A dark reflection of the polluted environment and a commentary on the societal disregard for health.
• Risks: Bioluminescent algae might attract unwanted attention, especially in the dark.

1. The Cyber-Tribal:

• Description: Clothing incorporating salvaged wires, circuit boards, and other discarded tech components. Think of cybernetic motifs hand-stitched onto worn leather jackets or tribal patterns formed from glowing wires.
• Inspiration: A mashup of traditional craftsmanship and defiance against the dominance of high-tech aesthetics.
• Risks: Might be mistaken for makeshift weapons or attempts to bypass security systems.

1. The Corporate Spy:

• Description: Subtly subverted versions of high-society uniforms. Imagine slightly ripped blazers with mismatched buttons, or high-collared shirts with the logos subtly altered to resemble protest symbols.
• Inspiration: A subtle rebellion against the corporate elite, blending in while making a statement.
• Risks: Might attract suspicion from authorities if the alterations are too obvious.

These are just a few ideas for Repli-Wear styles. Clothing in a high-tech, low-life society would be a way for the underclass to express their individuality, defiance, and limited resources, all while navigating the dangers of a controlling society.

Sketch some repli-wear "licensed" clothing styles, that do not pose any risk for wearers from any concerned sides.

Repli-Wear: Licensed Clothing Trends (Safe Zone)

1. The Vintage Throwback:

• Description: Replicas of historical clothing styles, like classic trench coats, denim jackets, or even floral dresses from a bygone era. Think of vintage fashion filtered through a futuristic lens, with subtle metallic accents or holographic embellishments.
• Appeal: Offers a nostalgic escape from the harsh realities of the present.
• Safety: Historical styles are unlikely to raise suspicion from authorities.

1. The Minimalist Worker:

• Description: Practical, utilitarian clothing designed for maximum comfort and durability. Think of well-made jumpsuits in neutral tones, with reinforced knees and pockets for tools.
• Appeal: Perfect for everyday wear in the lower districts, offering functionality and a clean aesthetic.
• Safety: Promotes a sense of productivity and avoids any controversial symbols.

1. The Nature Enthusiast:

• Description: Clothing with nature-inspired patterns and muted earth tones. Think of shirts with forest camouflage or jackets with subtle leaf prints.
• Appeal: Offers a sense of connection to the natural world, a stark contrast to the polluted cityscape.
• Safety: Nature motifs are unlikely to be seen as a threat by authorities.

1. The Sports Fanatic (Limited Edition):

• Description: Replicas of historical sports jerseys or team logos from a bygone era. Could also feature faded logos of defunct corporations, offering a sense of playful nostalgia.
• Appeal: Allows for a limited display of individuality and team spirit.
• Safety: Historical or defunct logos are unlikely to pose a threat, as long as the license is valid.

1. The Kid's Corner:

• Description: Replicas of popular cartoon characters or children's book illustrations, brightly colored and playful.
• Appeal: Offers a sense of innocence and escapism for children in a harsh environment.
• Safety: Popular children's characters are pre-approved and unlikely to be seen as a threat.

Now the opposite: some high-end high-society high clothing styles.

High-Society Haute Couture in a High-Tech, Low-Life World:

1. Bio-Luminescent Elegance:

• Imagine a flowing gown woven from a special bioluminescent material that emits a soft, ethereal glow, adapting to the wearer's mood and movement.
• The dress could be accented with strategically placed gemstones that amplify the bioluminescence, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

1. Augmented Reality Couture:

• Dresses and suits with intricate embroidery that, when viewed through special AR glasses, come alive with holographic animations, patterns, or even personalized messages.
• This could be used to display family crests, stock market trends, or even live news feeds, all seamlessly integrated into the clothing.

1. Nanotech Tailoring:

• Clothing that self-adjusts to the wearer's body temperature and preferences. The fabric could be woven with microscopic nanobots that regulate temperature, repel dust, or even release a subtle, personalized fragrance.
• This would offer a level of comfort and personalization that pushes the boundaries of traditional haute couture.

1. Recycled Luxury:

• High-society wouldn't be complete without a touch of eco-consciousness (or at least the appearance of it). Imagine garments meticulously crafted from recycled materials like discarded computer components or salvaged spaceship parts, transformed into stunning evening wear.
• This "waste-to-wear" approach would showcase wealth and environmental responsibility (or at least the image of it).

1. Cybernetic Accents:

• Subtle cybernetic implants seamlessly integrated into clothing. Imagine a dress with a built-in neural interface that allows the wearer to control personal AI assistants with a simple touch or a suit with temperature-regulating implants woven directly into the fabric.
• These high-tech accents would be a subtle yet sophisticated way to showcase wealth and technological advancement.

Bonus: The "Living" Garment:

• A truly outrageous and exclusive garment – a dress or suit composed of a bio-engineered material that appears to be alive. Imagine clothing that shimmers and pulsates with a faint bioluminescence, seemingly breathing and adapting to the wearer's movements.
• This would be the ultimate status symbol, a conversation starter that pushes the boundaries of fashion and technology into the realm of the fantastical.

somehow i have not yet won the championship with him, lost to brooklyn in the confrence finals 3 times in a row

I have pfsense using 10.0.0.1. When I first set pfsense up 18 months ago, I connected a wifi router to 10.0.0.2 and disabled its DHCP. Everything has been working fine for the last 18 months. Until today.
I saw that my wifi was using WPA2-Mixed which is insecure and I wanted to change it to WPA2-Personal which is secure. But I can't log into the wifi router. I get no response when entering 10.0.0.2 on any browser. Nor does 10.0.0.2 respond to pings from any machine on the lan.
My daily laptop connects to the lan via wifi. I can successfully connect from my laptop to all my linix servers (all connected to the lan via ethernet). Ping 8.8.8.8 -t shows no dropped packets. All my machines can communicate with one another. Except none can ping the wifi router (10.0.0.2).
The router has four ports marked "ethernet" and a yellow port marked "internet". I assume the yellow port is for the wan connection. The system has been working fine for 18 months with the wifi router being connected to pfsense via one of the wifi router's 4 "ethernet" ports. The yellow port remains unused (and when I tested using the yellow port to connect the wifi router to pfsense, all internet connectivity was lost).
I assume I must not have configured pfsense correctly 18 months ago. I see now that under interfaces there is a wireless tab. But I'm not sure if that is for a wireless card in my pfsense machine or if that is something I should be using with a separate wifi router.
Anyone have ideas why the wifi router is working just fine but not responding to ping and not providing a login when 10.0.0.2 is entered into the browser?

Hello, whoever you are on your side of this screen.
Predictability and ordinarity bore me. The idea of casual sex makes me more asleep than a Snorlax. I also don't want to be asked "How are you?" for the millionth time. And photos - well, one is always more than enough.
I'm sure I'm not everyone's cup of tea, but I don't seek anything ordinary, either. I'm just an author and researcher currently living in Portugal, and looking for someone new and truly unique to inspire me. We can talk about pretty much anything, plus you can learn a ton of super unusual but cool stuff if you're also into culture, literature, legends, stories, etc. What else can I tell you about me? Well, I'm often told I'm the most interesting person people have ever met, but let's go here for ten groups of facts about me and my life:
1- I've travelled to over 100 countries in search of knowledge, my favourite place being the streams of water and forests in the north of the Pyrenées, where I once placed my feet in the water and meditated for days.
2- I do not have a favourite book, but I do feel many marked my life. For example, Ovid's "Ars Amatoria" (as a teen), Cicero's "De Senectute" (as an adult), the "Ramayana" (as someone eager to explore other cultures), the "Nag Hammadi Library" (as a person interested in almost-lost religious texts), etc.
3- I once met a really amazing woman, we were together for 10+ years, we never married but we both knew neither of us was going anywhere else, I lost her in 2014 (and I don't want to talk about it), and I'm perfectly comfortable being single.
4- I've published over 80 books, between my real name and various pseudonyms, with the most sold having been top 100 on Amazon, and the least sold still stuck at under 10 copies (and it's intentionally supposed to sell very little).
5- In college I studied Computer Science, Psychology, French "LLCs" and Classical + Medieval Studies, but among my many passions you can also count Theology, Philosophy, Art, Mythology, Classical Music, Western Mysticism, Languages, etc.
6- I dislike social media and photos of people. I hardly ever take photos of myself or others, but I do have an enormous collection of photos I've taken around the globe, where I mostly tried to eternalize places and moments.
7- Apart from writing, I spend most of my free time as a volunteer for projects related to Culture, Children, and Mental Welfare. I also tend to donate to charity on a monthly basis, because I feel we should try to spread to others the good things we have in our lives.
8- Although I'm 39, I'm perfectly okay talking to much younger, or much older, people, because I feel they can also teach me a lot of things that I'm not necessarily familiarized with. And, in fact, one of my biggest pleasures in "real" life is talking to random people and learning new stuff from them.
9- I survived cancer and meningitis. I'm 99% okay, with the exception of a small physical problem most people never even notice.
10- I was recently "rejected" from a buddhist monastery for health reasons, since it seems my constant need for medication for an auto-immune disease would contrast with the simple life their monks need to have. So, yeah, that's mostly why I'm back online and posting this message.
So... if you are indeed tired of the usual messages and conversations, write me. Maybe you are indeed what I seek.

tl;dr: Could Braccus Rex be a demonic host of Chaos, God of Demons? It would help explain the continuity of the series and how one could exist simultaneously as both the eighth God following the age of the Eternals, and the primordial being, Chaos, who predates the existence of the Seven.
As he lays dying beneath the Church of the Seven, the Immaculate necromancer and healer, Thelyron Hashnitor, admits to the Source Hunters,
"I have summoned King Braccus… Braccus Rex from the tales of old. He lives. The mad Source King, the Lord of Chaos… I have… *whispers* awakened him. I have done a terrible thing. I’ve raised a mad king from beyond the grave. I imagined, so very foolishly, that I’d be able to extract an ancient secret from him, but with a simple flash of his arcane magic, I was… I was finished. [...] He was resurrected. Revived. The king lives, but not as the man he once was. He retains the mark of death upon him like a festering wound. The last of the Source Kings he was, and the tyrant who nearly condemned Rivellon to oblivion. He began the War of Wars, marching brother against brother against friend until every land and home burned with death. It was during this dark time that your order, the Source Hunters, was formed. Braccus was defeated, and Source was outlawed from the land. Braccus was a dangerous monster, but he achieved things no man or mortal could have dreamed of. But what he has become… his powers have all returned… and I cannot stop him. My failures… my failures are so many. [...] You can defeat the unholiness I have raised, Source Hunter. You can save the countless innocents that will perish under the Source King’s mad fist. I pray -no I believe- you can reverse my failures…"
In his monologue, not only does Thelyron outright refer to Braccus Rex as the Lord of Chaos, he calls the Source King 'unholy' and 'mad' and 'from the tales of old', implying that the Source King is significantly older than 4 AR. While he notes that Braccus is a monster, he insinuates that he has become something more and that ancient powers have been awakened. But he is not the only necromancer and healer to say so. Tarquin also makes repeated references to Braccus as a 'mad king' and a ‘vile creature’, and tells the Godwoken that he seeks Anathema to clean up an 'unholy' mess, claiming the fabled Godslayer sword is the only thing that can eradicate him. Madness and unholiness are both terms frequently attributed to demons and those whose minds who have been lost to madness, hate, paranoia, and hallucination through demonic influence.
There are other signs that point to demonic possession. Braccus is frequently described as a kind-hearted individual during the early years of his reign. We learn from Cassandra that Braccus Rex used to be a kind ruler before becoming a rabid tyrant, and that his descent into madness was swift. Cranley Huwbert, acclaimed historian of Rivellon, writes that Braccus was once 'a fine human being and noble ruler' however 'greed overtook him and he became corrupted'. While Cranley is not the most reliable author, Braccus Rex could have very well been human, granted immortality as Amadia’s lover or through possession by Chaos, and not an Eternal. The statue of Braccus on Fort Joy bears a striking resemblance to the human god Rhalic, who is depicted in the Portrait of Rhalic at the Cathedral of Arx. Despite the fable in the Tapestry of Time, it is not very likely that the corruption of Source itself caused him to go mad, otherwise we would have seen many other Sourcerers who have continued to use Source during this time also lose their sanity.
But Thelyron is not the only one who calls Braccus Rex, ‘the Lord of Chaos’.
Cassandra, the twin sister of Braccus Rex, tells the Source Hunter,
"You, a frail mortal, laid low the Eternal Crown of Braccus Rex? How sinfully inglorious... yes, how humiliating for the so-called Lord of Chaos to find himself run through by a slave to age and order."
Here, she refers to Braccus Rex as an immortal king with an Eternal Crown. Yet, shortly after his descent into madness, Braccus develops a fear of death to the point of paranoia. She describes him gaining sudden power, and with it, a terrible fear of death that hounds him ceaselessly night and day. Now, he seeks to break the soul-forge that he and Cassandra formed when they were still children. Braccus feared if Cassandra were to die, he would also die. So, he transforms her into an undead lich to break their soul-forge which grants them both immortality. In Braccus Rex: A Portrait of Evil, Volume 3, it is written that Braccus created the soul-forge with Cassandra so he may also live forever, but this is not actually true. So, it is heavily implied that Braccus had already achieved a form of immortality before the breaking of the soul-forge. We learn from the powerful archdemon demon, Adrahmalihk, that demons are immortal (in a manner similar to the Eternals), and have the ability to possess or influence more than one host.
There seem to be various types and degrees to demonic possession, and if a demon is particularly powerful, their souls may also be "split apart" and imbedded within other objects or entities. Some form of possession seems likely to have occurred with Braccus. As we know from Thaddeus that the Chaos Demon roamed the world in various forms: the Lord of Chaos, the Demon of Lies, the Damned One, and now Damian. So far, he believes that Chaos has not yet reach his full potential in any of these champions, and the true Lord of Chaos has yet to be freed. So, even if Braccus is one of the many hosts for the Lord of Chaos throughout history, his is not the final form of the Demon God. This final form of Chaos will most likely occur within Damian.
As a Master of the Source and the Void, Braccus Rex is also extremely powerful, and is described by Leandra, the leader of the Immaculates, as being the forefather of their cause: the original Immaculate. He has vast forgotten knowledge and access to abilities no one else is capable of. For example, he is sought after for his knowledge of soul forging. He even teaches Dallis, the Eternal, the secret to becoming a Dragon Knight, allowing her to transform at will. For some reason, he is also the only being capable of sniffing out the Aeteran like a ‘Source bloodhound’, a plan which necessitates the necromancer, Tarquin, to resurrect him back from the dead. Not even the Seven Gods were able to find the Aeteran once Aetera and the Eternal King were exiled. Possessing great intelligence, he crafts insidiously evil tools such as purging wands, phylactery jars, and Source collars to enslave other Sourcerers and seize further power. Before his second death at the hands of the Godwoken, he is powerful enough to call upon the God King as an ally (seemingly without being Sworn), summon the Void itself into the Tomb of Lucian, and unleash the Kraken from its depths. Cunning and cruel, he has fiendish objectives, and mentions his goal to turn the realm of Rivellon into Hell. Upon his first resurrection, he tells the Undead who had formerly served as his court, “First their cities and their children shall burn! Sigils of terror and torment will blight the land! Oceans of fire will flow, and the earth shall take the guise of Hell!”. His primary form of magic is fire, often associated with the Demonic race. He is capable of instantly incinerating powerful magisters from the inside out, so even Dallis’s white Magisters fear and avoid him.
Clearly, Braccus Rex is a very ancient, powerful being. But much of his history has been lost to time. The War of Wars that Thelyron mentions could be referring to the Wizard Wars. This apocalyptic war is said by the scholar of lost history, Thaddeus, to have made Lucian’s Great War seem like a skirmish between a peasant and an ogre over the last bit of sausage. It is a war in which everything began, the incipience of a grand conflict involving the Chaos Demon that continually tears Rivellon apart. Following the timeline, the Wizard Wars succeeds the War of the Eternals, started by the scholar, Fane, when he discovers the truth of the Veil. We know this because the wizard race was created by Amadia shortly after the Eternal War. Theyron's description of Braccus as the 'Last Source King' may be in reference to Braccus being the eighth and final Lord who, somewhere around this time, desired the Source. Meaning, sometime after the Seven Lords usurp the Eternal King, Braccus could have risen up to assume the mantle of King in the power vacuum that followed. Or, it could mean that Braccus was the last in a dynasty of many Source Kings - a time in which Thaddeaus says the race of wizards ruled the land - before his instigation of the War of Wars: the Wizard Wars. The latter seems more likely.
Indeed, there is strong evidence to suggest that an eighth lord, the Lord of Chaos, was not complicit (or even present) in the Seven’s coup against the Eternal King. When the Godwoken speak with Aetera about the War of Eternals, she specifically mentions only the Seven Lords rebelled against the Eternal King. When she blames Fane for his role in the War, she asserts that he made a mistake “the moment he spoke to the Seven Lords”. There is no mention of an eighth lord in the conversation between Aetera and Fane, so it can be surmised that no eighth was present at this time. During the war, Aetera crafted a purging device known as the Aeteran to aid the Eternal King. However, before the end of the war, the Seven found out about her treachery, and as punishment, sealed Aetera in a tomb for all eternity. Neither Aetera nor the Eternal King had the opportunity to use the weapon before the war’s end, but Aetera managed to hide it within the crypts before her punishment, so the Seven would not find it. When the Godwoken elf eats Void-tainted fish in Wrecker’s Cave, they access memories of the God King moments before he is thrown into the Void. The Demon God, the Lord of Chaos is still not present. But once the Eternal King and the rest of the Eternal race are sealed away in the Void, a brief time of peace seems to follow (although any turmoil may have simply been written out). It is possible that the Seven's siphoning of Source directly from the Veil may have led to the eventual release of the Void dragon, creating the necessity for other methods to harvest Source while also defending the realm from the Void. But at some point, in The Seven Gods, it is said that the Gods were still young when they decided that each of them should have their own race. Thus, the creation of races in Rivellon occurs. Centuries pass as the new races settle across the continent. They serve their dual purpose as Source vats for the Gods and as protectors of the realm from external threats. Sometime after the overthrow of the Eternal King, it is said that Amadia has a dalliance with one of the Seven’s mortal creations, a wizard, whom she grants eternal life. It is unclear how she accomplishes this or how much truth there is to the claim. Furthermore, this wizard and his demi-god off-spring are unnamed in the text (although these demi-gods may have ended up as the Guardians of the Godbox). However, Thaddeus mentions that very early on in Rivellonian history, it was the race of wizards who ruled the lands. It is not known when Braccus Rex, a wizard King of unparalleled power, first came to rule Rivellon, but I’ll assume it to be somewhere around this time, around the height of wizard superiority, before the start of the Wizard Wars.
We know that at some point during his reign, the Source is corrupted, Braccus goes mad, and triggers the War of Wars. These years mark what are known as the Lost Centuries. In Braccus Rex: A Portrait of Evil, it is revealed that his tyrannical rule lasted for ‘many decades’ which aligns with Thaddeus’s knowledge that the War of Wizards occurred for over a century. The Order of the Source Hunters: A Brief History states that Braccus instigated a great war that would have completely ‘undone Rivellon if not for the Council of Seven’ – which we know from Thaddeaus was founded with the intent of resisting Lord Chaos. A new order of elite warriors, known as the Source Hunters, was conceived by the Council with the sole purpose of eradicating Braccus Rex, and after his downfall, the objective shifted to ridding the world of Source. So, the ancient Order of Source Hunters led to Braccus’s first death, but precisely when this occurred is not known. However, with the corruption of Source, we also learn that the original Source Hunters removed all mention of themselves and their involvements in history from the Tapestry of Time. This act could explain why so much information surrounding Braccus has been lost in history.