#but you might benefit from following a structured course more for a while and then going off to find specific points to focus on

[heron-knight]

decided to crack open my skull and pour the contents of my brain onto the keyboard. thought the denizens of tumblr might enjoy it. bon appetite

Mech Pilot Care guide

You never expect it, do you. Even as you see the flashes of pulse-decay fire in the sky, illuminating a scene of violence on the cosmic scale. Planetary defense satellites forming Monolithic structures in the sky, their purpose now revealed as they scatter constellations of destruction across the night horizon, drowning out the stars and replacing them with ones born of death. The oxygen in a ship catching fire and burning away in an instant, a flash of light that marks the death of its crew of hundreds. Even if you take your telescope to watch this spectacle, this war in a place without screams, you still feel profoundly disconnected from it. Even as you see a pilot cleave through a drone hive with a fusion blade, the molten metal glistening in the light of the explosions around it, scattering without gravity to the corners of the universe, even as two mechs dance across the sky, their reactors pouring into the engines enough energy to power the house atop which you sit for ten thousand years, flying in a 3.5 dimensional dance with only one word to the song that can reach across the vacuum: “I Will Kill You.” you don’t feel even the slightest glimpse of what goes on inside their minds. You don’t feel the neurological feedback tearing across the brain-computer interface, filling her mind with more simultaneous pain and elation that an unmodified human could ever experience. You don’t feel it as the pneumatic lance punctures through steel and nanocarbon polymer, the mech AI sending floods of a sensation you could never truly know through the skull and into every corner of the body carried on enhanced nerves for every layer of armor punctured, tearing into the enemy chassis with a desire beyond anything the flesh can provide. Let the stars kill each other. After all, I am safe on earth. No, you don’t expect it when the star is hit with a sub-relativistic projectile, piercing through both engines in an instant. You don’t expect it to fall. You never would have expected it to land, the impact nearly vaporizing the soil and setting trees aflame, on the hill beyond your house, and you would never have expected, beneath the layers of cooling slag, for the life-support indicator light to still be visible.

All the fire extinguishers in your house, your old plasma cutter that you haven’t used in years, and whatever medical supplies you think they might still be able to benefit from. All that on a hoverbike, speeding at 120 kilometers per hour through the valley and up onto the hill, still illuminated by the battle above, unsurprisingly unchanged by this new development. 200 meters. 100 meters. You don’t know how much time you’ve got. It wasn’t exactly covered in school, how long a pilot can survive in an overheating frame. You’ve heard rumors, of course, of what these things that used to be human have become. That they don’t eat and barely need air. That they don’t feel any desire beyond what instructions are pumped directly into their brains. Not so much of a person as much as an attack dog. It’s understandably a bit concerning, as if they are alive, then it’s not guaranteed that you will be. Three fire extinguishers later, the surface of the mech is mostly solid, and the cutter slices through the exterior plating. With a satisfying crunch, the cockpit is forced open, revealing the pilot, and confirming a few of the rumors, while refuting others. Pilots, it seems, are not quite emotionless. In fact, there seems to be genuine fear on its face when it sees you, followed by… a sort of grim certainty as it opens its mouth, moves its jaw into a strange position, and you only have half a second to react before it would have bitten down with all its force on the tooth that seemed to be made of a different material then all the rest.

Your thumb is definitely bleeding, and is caught between a metamaterial-based dental implant, and one containing a military-grade neurotoxin. You’re not sure exactly why you did it. The pilot looks at you for a second, before the tubes that attach to its arms like puppet strings run out of stimulants, and it passes out after who knows how long without sleep. This battle has been going on for weeks already. Has it been fighting that long? Its various frame-tethered implants disconnect easily, the unconscious pilot draped over your shoulder twitching slightly with each one you remove. It’s a much longer ride back to the house. Avoiding having the pilot fall off the bike is the top priority, and the injured thumb stings in the fast-moving air. 

An internet search doesn’t lead to many helpful sources to the question of “there is a mech pilot on my couch, what do I do?” a few articles about how easy targets retired pilots are for the “doll sellers,” a few military recruitment ads, and a couple near-incomprehensible legal documents full of words like “proprietary technology” or “instant termination.” However, there is one link, a few rows down from the top-- “Mech Pilot Care Guide.” It’s a detailed list, arranged in numbered steps. The website has no other links on it, just the step-by-step instructions: a quick read reveals that this isn’t going to be easy, but looking at the unconscious pilot, unabsorbed chemicals dripping from the ports in its arms and head onto the mildly bloodstained towel, you come to the conclusion that there’s no other option.

Step one: the first 24 hours.

The first thing you should know is that pilots aren’t used to sleeping. They’re used to being put under for transport and storage, but after the neural augmentations and years of week-long battles sustained by stimulants that would fry the brain of anyone that still has an intact one, they’ve more or less forgotten what real sleep is. If they see you asleep, they’ll think you’re dead, so don’t try to let them stay in your room yet. Once you’ve removed the neurotoxin from the tooth (it breaks easily with a bit of applied pressure, but be careful not to let any fall into their mouth or onto your skin.), start by moving them into a chair (preferably a recliner or gaming chair, as the mech seat is about halfway in between), and putting a heavy blanket over them. Don’t worry, they don’t need as much air as normal humans do, and can handle high temperatures up to a point. This is an environment similar to the one they’re used to. It’ll stay like this for about 12 hours-- barely breathing, trembling slightly underneath the blanket. Feel free to check if it’s alive every few hours, not that you could help it if it wasn’t. It won’t freak out when it wakes up. In fact, it doesn’t seem like they can. Turn down the lights and remove the blanket from its face. It’ll stare blankly at you, trying to evaluate the situation with a brain that’s not connected to a computer that’s bigger than they are anymore. Coming to terms, if you could call it that, with the fact that it isn’t dead. Don’t expect it to start reacting to things for a while yet, give it a couple hours. 

It’s been a bit, and its eyes are starting to focus on you. The next thing you should know is this: pilots only have two groups into which they can categorize non-pilots: handler and enemy. You need to work on making sure you’re in the right one. Move slowly, standing up and walking toward them, making sure they can see where you’re going to step. Place both hands on their shoulders, then slide one under their arm and carefully pick them up. Don’t be startled by how light they are, or how they still shake slightly as they realize their arms don’t have anything connected to them. Most importantly, don’t break. Don’t reflect on how something can be done to a person so that this is all that’s left. Just focus on rotating them as if you’re inspecting all the brain-computer interface ports, while holding them at half an arm’s length. Set them back down, wrap the blanket around them, then lean in close and say “status report.” they won’t say anything, as they usually upload the data via interface, but what’s important is that now they recognise you as their handler. Their entire mind will be focused on the fact that they exist now to do what you want. Now it’s up to you to prove them wrong.

Step two: the first week.

They’re shaking so hard that you’ve had to move them from the chair back to the couch, sweating heavily as they pant like the dog they’ve been trained to think they are. This was to be expected, really. Pilots are constantly being filled with a mix of stimulants, painkillers, and who knows what else, and you’ve just cut them off completely. You’ve woken up several times in the night and rushed to check if they’re still breathing, debating whether you should try to tell them that they’re going to be okay. The guide says they’re not ready for that yet, whatever that means. They’re still wearing the suit you found them in, made from nanofiber mesh and apparently recycling nutrients and water before re-infusing them intravenously. It’s been three days since you tore them out of the lump of metal atop the hill outside. Long enough that the suit’s battery, apparently, has run out. You lift them gently from the couch and carry them to the bathroom. The shower’s been on for the past hour or so, meaning the temperature should be high enough. You set them on their chair, which you’ve rolled there from the living room and covered with a towel. Removing the suit normally isn’t done except in between missions, and it’s only done to exchange it for a new one. Without the proper tools, you’ve opted for a pair of scissors. Cutting through the suit takes a bit of time, but you manage to cut a sizable line from the neck down to the front to the bottom of the torso. The pilot recoils slightly from the cold metal against their skin, but you manage to peel off the suit without incident, The Temperature of which was roughly the same as the steam filling the room, and you’ve done your best to minimize air currents. They’ve got a bit more shape to them than you expected of someone who’s been so heavily modified. Perhaps what little fat storage it provides helps on longer missions, or perhaps this is for the purposes of marketing. Just another recruitment ad that appeals to baser instincts. Either way, it doesn’t matter. Using a cloth with the least noticeable texture possible, you wash off as much sweat and dead skin as you can, avoiding the various interface and IV ports, as you’re not yet sure that they’re waterproof. Embarrassment is the enemy of efficiency, so you’re slightly glad that their eyes never completely focus on you. They shift their weight slightly, however. Despite the difficulty moving with their current symptoms, they lean in the direction opposite the places you wash once you're done, allowing you to more easily access the places you haven’t got to yet. An act of trust that you have a suspicion they weren't “programmed” to do.  As they dry out, you prepare for the difficult part. You take the blanket that previously wrapped around their suit, and gently touch a corner of it to their shoulder. Pilots are used to an amount of sensory  information that would overload any normal human in an instant, but most rarely experience textures against their skin. After about half an hour, they’re used to it enough that you’re able to replace what’s left of the suit with it, and after another you’re able to wrap them in it again. You carry them back to the couch, and place a few of your old shirts next to their hand. They pick one and touch it with one finger before recoiling slightly. Eventually, they’ll be used to at least one of them enough that they can wear it. It’s slow progress, but it’s progress.

Step 3: food

It goes without saying that it’s usually been at least a year since they’ve eaten anything. The augmentations scooped out much of their knowledge on how to survive as a human, assuming that they would die before ever needing to be one again. Start them off with just flavors. Give them a chance to pick favorites by giving them a wide selection and firmly telling them to try all of them. Avoid anything solid for the first month or so, both because they can’t digest it and because they associate chewing with their self-destruct mechanism. Trying to and surviving might make them think the “mission’s fully compromised” and attempt to improvise. They’ll typically pick out favorites quickly with their enhanced senses, so once they’ve sampled everything, tell them to pick one. Remember it, not in order to use it as a reward or anything, but them still being able to have a “favorite” anything is something you should keep in mind for later. 

Use a similar method anytime they become able to handle the next level of solidity. Don’t be alarmed if one of their favorite foods is the meat that’s most similar to humans (such as pork.) they’re not going to eat you, they just will have already formed an association between that flavor and the moment they went from being a weapon to living in your house. Don’t worry about your thumb getting infected, by the way. Pilots barely have a microbiome.

Step 4: entertainment:

Roll them over to your computer and give them access to your game library. No, really. They need enrichment, and there’s only one activity that they’re able to enjoy at the moment. A simulation of it will make the shift from weapon to guest easier. Start them off with an FPS with a story. Don’t go multiplayer, as your account may get banned for being suspected of using aimbots. Watch as they progress the story. The military left pilots with just enough of a personality to allow them to improvise, and that should be enough for them to make decisions on this level. They won’t do much character customization, but keep an eye on which starting character body shape they pick. No pilot would consciously think they have enough of a “Self” to still have a gender, but keep track of the ones they pick in the games. As for the one you’ve found, it appears that she’s got a player-character preference. You even saw her nudge one of the appearance sliders before clicking “start game.” Whether this means that a pilot doesn’t think of themselves as “it” or that it means there’s still enough of their mind left for them to know there’s more to themselves than the body they have, it’s a handy bit of information to know. Some pilots might have had this decision influenced by their handlers having referred to them as “she” in the way it refers to boats, but still, on some level they always know that “it” meant that they’re a weapon. 

Step 6: outside:

There’s a profound difference between experiencing the world through information fed directly into your brain and standing up for the first time, wandering around the room and investigating with hands not made of a half-ton of metal. She’s not used to feeling the air on her skin as she stands in front of the window, visual data coming from two eyes instead of seven cameras. It’ll take a while to get used to it again. New old data, reminiscent of a time before she’s been trained not to remember. It’ll take a while until she’s walking like a human and not a mech, as the muscles used are different, and the ones to hold herself upright haven’t been used in a while. She’s going to fall down at least once. Be sure you’re standing next to her when it happens, as pilots that fall aren’t trained to think they can get back up. It’s worth it, though, when she opens the door herself and strides into the yard, still wobbly but standing. Be careful not to let her look into the sun, partially because it looks nearly identical to the barrel of a pulse-decay blaster milliseconds before it fires. She would get hurt trying to dodge it. It will be somewhat confusing for her, standing on a hill as she once did, but not contained within a 12-meter metal chassis. A feeling of being small and alone without the voices of the computer. This means it’s time for step seven.

Step 7: 

All this time, and any idea that she’s still a person has, for her, been subconscious. Any thought of humanity is stopped when it slams into the wall of her handlers and mech AIs reminding her for years before now that she is a weapon. She’ll still ask for your permission before doing just about anything, and that’s just the rare times that she’ll do something you don’t tell her to. Even after you’ve moved her into your room, she’ll still try to sleep on the floor. She still thinks that beds are only for humans. Kneel next to her as she curls into a ball on the ground, assuming that’s what she’s supposed to do. Expect her to try to move down to the foot of the bed after you set her down on it. Gently move her back up until her head’s on the pillow. Sit on the edge of the bed, and hold out your hand to her. After a bit, she’ll take it, wrapping both hands around it and tracing her fingers along the scar on your thumb. Lie down next to her, an arm’s length apart. Place your other hand on her forearm, then slide it up her arm to her shoulder. Don’t move too quickly, and don’t surprise her. Whisper softly but audibly every movement you’re going to make in advance. Move in a bit closer, until you’re wrapped in her arms. Mech pilots aren’t used to this. They aren't used to feeling someone next to them. Not above them, but next to them, getting exactly as much out of this as they are. Even after several months, many won’t admit they deserve it. You wouldn’t waste time lying next to a gun. So why do they feel so strongly that they don’t want you to leave? Why do they hold on tighter? They often feel they’re doing something wrong. Overstepping a boundary. There’s a rift between what they want and what they’re told they can want that nearly tears their mind in half, and it hurts. No normal human will ever know how much it hurts them to think they’ve broken some instruction, that they feel things they aren’t allowed to. Nobody said it was easy, learning how to become human again. Tell her it’s okay. That she’s allowed to feel this way. She still won’t know why. It’s time to tell her. The guide can’t tell you what to say, only that you have to say it. It has to come from you. You have to be the one that tells her what she is underneath all the modifications. It’s time, say it.

“Do you feel that? Do you feel your heart start to beat faster as it presses up against mine? Do you feel your own breath against your skin after it reflects off my shoulder? Do you feel your muscles start to tighten as I slide my hand across them, then relax because you know it means that you are safe? It’s because you’re alive. Because despite everything, you’re still alive. Still someone left after all the changes, all the augmentations. And I know you’re someone because you are someone that likes food a bit spicier than most would prefer. Someone that closes her eyes and gets lost in music whenever it’s playing. Someone that added that one piece of customization to her character, even though they would wear a helmet for most of the game and nobody would know it was there but you. Maybe you aren’t the same person you were before. Maybe they did take some things from you that nothing can give back. But you’re still someone. Someone that people can still care about, and I know because I do.”

You can feel her tears drip down onto your neck as she pulls you closer. She tries to say something, but you can’t understand what. You tell her it’s okay. That it’s not easy, and that she doesn’t have to pretend that it is. Not for you, and not for anyone anymore. She doesn’t have to be useful anymore. No need to keep it together. All that matters is that she’s alive. 

There’s another battle going on in the night sky outside. The same flashes of light you saw the night you stopped living alone, even if the other person couldn’t admit that they were one yet. She still flinches at the brighter bursts of pulse-decay fire, still stretches out her hand on reflex to prime a pneumatic lance that isn’t there. But she knows it’s not her, it’s just a ghost of the weapon that died when it hit the ground. You can feel her relax as she realizes this, moving her hand back to dry her face before reaching out towards yours. You hadn’t noticed the tears on your own face. You place your hand on hers as she wipes the corner of your eye. Outside and above, the war continues on a cosmic scale, so far apart from where you both are now that you barely notice it. Let the stars kill each other. After all, the one before you has already fallen, and she doesn’t have to return to the sky. Together, you are safe on earth. 

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Jonathan V. Last at The Bulwark:

1. There Is Only War

There is a way in which you can view Trump’s first term as a mostly intramural kampf. Trump took office in 2017 without the support of much of the institutional Republican party,1 but came to Washington hoping to become the same lovable host he’d been on TV. Instead, his most substantial opposition came from inside the GOP—people like Jeff Flake, John McCain, and Mitt Romney. (And also Jim Mattis, John Kelly, and Rex Tillerson.)

Over the course of his administration, Trump discovered that this faction might superficially support him, but was fundamentally opposed to him. So he engaged in a power struggle with them for control of the party. Trump ultimately triumphed, but the energy required for this fight precluded him from doing much governing. There simply wasn’t time to both purge the GOP and pass legislation. Also, Trump discovered that there were two other spheres in which structures prevented a president from acting as emperor. The first was the federal government, in which conscientious political appointees could thwart his will and civil service bureaucrats held their own power. The second was the broader culture, in which business leaders, internet platforms, and media organizations held some sway over public opinion. [...]

For a moment, put aside Elon Musk’s Nazi salute, the removal of Mark Milley’s portrait from the Pentagon, and the “Gulf of America.” Look at where the power is. The Courts. For the next two years, the judicial branch is the only institution with the power to check Trump. That’s why he issued an executive order to end birthright citizenship. There is no question that this order is unconstitutional. The only issue is whether or not there will be five votes on the Supreme Court to risk a showdown with Trump over enforcement of a verdict. Trump understands that at some point he is likely to come into open conflict with the Supreme Court. Ending birthright citizenship is a probing action designed to test the Court’s nerve. Will five justices be willing to rule against him on an open-and-shut case? Or will John Roberts and Amy Coney Barrett be worried that Trump might defy a contrary ruling, exposing the Court as toothless—and so decide to go along with him now in order to reserve the right to oppose him later?

[...]

Blue States. We have reports that Trump’s deportation raids are slated to target Chicago, Boston, and New York—Democratic cities in Democratic states. The inherent tension in Trump’s deportation regime is that if he followed through on his promises and deported several million immigrants, he would hobble the national economy. To take just one example: A red state like Texas would experience huge problems in the construction industry, which relies heavily on immigrant labor. Either housing construction in Texas would slow—raising housing prices. Or construction wages would climb—also raising housing prices. But there is a way for Trump to have his cake and eat it too: If he targets immigrants in blue states, he can create a drag on local, blue-state economies while satisfying the anti-immigrant desires of red-state voters. It’s a twofer. Trump can hurt businesses and make life more expensive for consumers in New York and Illinois—and then attack blue state mayors and governors for these problems and maybe even help Republican candidates win in those states. Meanwhile, Fox will run B-roll from the raids on a loop, satisfying Trump voters in Texas and Arizona—whose economies will continue to benefit from immigrant workers. Trump understands that blue states are the last bastions of meaningful popular opposition to his rule, so he will use the federal government to subdue them.

Jonathan V. Last of The Bulwark doing excellent journalism once again.

[sothasil]

hi! so, first of all, i love your khajiit art, it's awesome to see someone expanding on khajiit lore in such a thoughtful and interesting way. second of all, i have been looking for ages for any information on marriage in khajiit culture and i have found little. obviously there ARE marriages in elsweyr, but i wanna know traditions: what clothes are worn, what kinds of rings are exchanged, if any, what foods are eaten, etc. but i cant find anything! do you have opinions on this? i'd love to hear!

thank you very much! i can't help with official lore sources (since ESO came out i stopped following that :')) but i do have my own headcanons on the matter!

marriages are a big deal when it involves the linking of two notable families/clans. in the northern regions, where clans are more important to everyday life and social structure, notable members marrying are grounds for large celebrations and larger amounts of discourse between family heads. expected topics include with whom the family will live, how both spouses fit the clan's skill and values and of course, how [insert party currently talking] is better than [insert the other clan involved]

marriages are more important by the greater families union they provide than other aspects surrounding the actual individuals. as a strongly communal society, to khajiit, marrying is first and foremost to officialize your relationship with a partner in relation to what that means for your families. the formation of elsweyr itself under that name happened with a marriage, and that historical example is propped up by some as what should be the cultural standard.

when a marriage does happen, it's a huge party. both sides of the couple's family come over to show off and have fun. it's a good occasion to meet other people and demonstrate the skills and power of you and your clan. as with all big parties, there will be guests who have nothing to do with either families coming too! those party crashers can just come for fun, but some attend to make connections and deals while taking advantage of the events.

romance, sex and having kids are not that tied to the concept. for marriages between important people, if they do have kids matters a lot but it's not that linked to the marriage in itself. khajiit are not very strict when it comes to why and how you have your lovers. it isn't a shame to have sex outside of marriage (including if you end up with kids), and if you are indeed married and want a lover, the big deal won't be ruining a sanctity of marriage, but more what your partner thinks of it. it is however considered unsightly to marry someone you do not have some feelings for, as well as marrying your friend for each other's benefits. again, greater family above all

who was there when it happens and how much you talk about your union are probably the most important factors for officializing it all. divorce isn't really a thing because khajiit aren't bureaucratic. if your marriage falls apart, it's up to you to make it clear you are ending it and face the likely familial backlash. it is however completely acceptable to marry several times - if your spouse is gone, if you find a better one... if that latter case applies and both sides don't remarry, the one who doesn't might get a bad rep. marriages between more than two people aren't a social norm, and while you might have a clan mother who celebrates that, it is rare and polyamoursly inclined khajiit tend to not marry at all and just stay lifelong lovers with their partners.

The only place in my personal khajiit musings where I explored marriage was for my own characters - Ma'Jahrann's parents, Elaahni and Qa'Husar. In those two, each hails from a very different culture - Elaahni is from a more traditionalist mid-sized Anequina clan, and Qa'Husar is from the southern parts with a more cosmopolitan structure, born to a small immediate family who dissolved as he grew up. Their marriage was a bit of a deal when it happened. Elaahni was a local celebrity and her family didn't see too kindly the nobody from those big humid cities marrying their daughter. Qa'Husar himself had to face acquiring a gigantic extended family overnight which he had no experience with. Both ended up fucking off to a smaller town where they settled on an in-between of living a settled lifestyle close with the local community, with Elaahni's close relatives visiting when they saw fit.

[thereadingaddic7]

Tech Faction

This is going to be a long one.

My Tech faction is completed, mechanically at least. Art is, and will be for the foreseeable future extremely repetitive due to lacking the ability to make new assets as I need them, you've seen that same deployed Tick Tank in three different factions now, none of them even it's native one, and it's hardly the only piece like it. Issue for later however.

It's been a bit of a struggle to figure out how I wanted to bring the Tech Faction to life with my own spin on it. The original concept for the Tech Faction as a whole, as introduced in Tiberian Sun (technically, very very very technically) and codified in Red Alert 2 was an asset capture mechanic, based on CnC's existing framework of capturing enemy buildings and using them to your own benefit (a captured Soviet Power Plant would power Allied base defences just as well). Adding ones you couldn't build but had to find on the map encourages players to do more than sit in their bases all game until they have enough Tanks to win after all. It would be modified and expanded on in future titles, Tiberium Wars specifically being the proper genesis of Tech Units with it's Mutant Marauder squads, but the base concept was more or less conceptualized here.

Better modders than me have placed their hats in the ring on how best to make one, leaving me in a pickle of "I want to do this, but someone has already done it and I don't want to rip them off", which sucks because the reason they did it their way is because it's a damn good way to do it. Nevertheless I've beaten my head against the wall enough that I've come up with my own take, by leaning into the Tech part of the Tech Faction.

Many RTS games have Tech trees, whereby you level up your forces in some way by researching upgrades, or constructing buildings that grant you access to new equipment. Sun follows the latter method, Nod can't build their fearsome Cyborg Commando with only a barracks and a prayer, they need the highest tier buildings to produce them. I've applied this concept somewhat to my Tech faction, most of the infantry come with just the Barracks however the Doctor requires also owning a Civilian Hospital. The vehicles themselves have been sorted roughly into their component tiers here, though if you don't quite remember the list...

Divided into 4 tiers, each group has a role to play in game, and as each has different requirements getting access to the better stuff requires more risk - do you play it safe and use only your native tech, or do you gamble and potentially win big? Of course, if the only things the Civilian Array and Civilian Tech Center game you was access to Tech vehicles, there wouldn't be much reason to place them on their own in a map. Hence they now have additional functions, the Civilian Array providing a slow trickle of income to players that isn't capped by your maximum Tiberium storage; and stacks with additional arrays, while the Civilian Tech Center uses an idea I am somewhat ashamed to say was more or less ripped from another mod, Dawn of the Tiberium Age; that being granting the player the ability to construct basic defence structures, an anti-infantry guard tower, an anti-vehicle cannon and an anti-air sam site. However given how gimmicky some of my faction base defences have become, it was simply too good an idea to leave alone.

The Light Tank is a very basic tank unit, not as durable as it's peers but it's fast and fairly damaging. Factions that play slower but stronger might find use for it as a quick response force, something to plug the gap until your problem solvers arrive. The Humvee on the other hand is a basic scout unit, quick and good for picking off infantry, it's also one of two units capable of hitting fliers. It won't do much to actual aircraft, but some dickhead with a jetpack is going to regret getting too close.

The Medium Tank is a good all around tank, Nod and Forgotten players are more likely to appreciate it for providing them with a durable frontline that's capable of punching and pursuing. The M113 APC is a very basic APC unit, meant to contrast the weirder ones in the main game. It carries the basic 5 soldiers into battle inside a durable and swift platform, and is capable of supporting them with it's anti-infantry machinegun.

The Tiberian Dawn Harvester is pretty much just a regular harvester. There's no specific benefit to using him over a normal one, but there's also no real downside to it either. He's here for the love of the game.

The Mammoth Tank remains the powerhouse it's always been. Slow but immensely strong, armed with twin 120mm cannons and twin missile launchers, and sporting a self repair system the Mammoth makes for a great Tip of the Spear or alternatively a DISTRACTION!Carnifex. Given it's power, and use in the Forgotten faction as well, the Mammoth has a build limit of three, that said as it is technically a different unit to the Forgotten variant, they can potentially produce six of the monsters. And finally the old Nod SSM, renamed Honest John purely because that's what the wiki calls it missiles and not because I keep misreading SSM as something else, it serves as a powerful artillery piece to cap off the lineup.

Of course, this is just the mechanical side of it. From a story perspective, the Tech factions are extremely valuable to mission makers who want to change up the compositions a bit, add some variety to the enemy/friendly units one encounters or force players to play differently than expected. Looking to cannon again, Tiberium Wars has one wonderful GDI mission without any traditional harvesting, resources are instead generated by three Tiberium Spike platforms that the player must capture and defend. Furthermore, Tech units can be used to represent the "irrelevant" factions of the wider world without having to go to the trouble of making them fully playable, something the Fading Dusk team demonstrates repeatedly with the various Warlords in all campaigns. Combining Tech units with regular faction units can hint at both regional forces as well as their wider allegiances; an American military force might be well represented by Medium Tanks and Humvees, but an ANZAC force might prefer Light Tanks and GDI's Amphibious APCs.

[reineyday]

i posted this mishanks fic where shanks takes calculus 1 as an elective for fun thinking rayleigh's gonna teach it only to be confronted with ray's TA mihawk teaching the class instead.

in the a/n i mentioned that mihawk's having a bad morning and shares an open-concept office with the other warlords, all doing their phd's in the same department, and someone asked what they were specializing in. i thought about it enough that i figured i'd just post my reply here too. 😂 i am but a humble bfa-haver, so if any of these topics seem wrong or unlikely, let me know! 🥲 it's all based on their devil fruits (if they have them).

i was thinking mihawk is probably getting a doctorate of philosophy in mathematics, inspired long ago by his swordsmanship practice (both in meditation and in analysis of movement and connection) and tendency toward logic and rational thinking. he also likes problem-solving. rayleigh has a joint appointment professor job at new world, and while he teaches mostly hard mathematics, he also teaches philosophy courses. mihawk is following a similar path of research, and thus chose him as a supervisor.

i think it might be interesting if boa was studying philosophy as related to the subject of love and logic. rayleigh is her supervisor as well, because he did his own thesis back in the day on picking apart aristotle's body of research in the modern lens, and she's focusing on aristotle's three sources of affection/types of objects that are loved and lovable (the good, the pleasant, and the useful). she probably has to be talked down from some heavy-handed metaphors on turning to stone lol.

croc is probably studying something that has to do with the physical properties and manipulation of sand, especially in its power to change topographies over time, and perhaps branching into individual uses of sand as a method of force. he probably thinks about sandblasters too much.

moria... hmm, sciography (study of shadows) and the neurological and psychological effects differently-shadowed spaces have on a person. sciography is something that mostly architects use when designing spaces, but he's interested more in the effect on one's psyche in (un)lit spaces as opposed to the art and design of it all.

kuma uuhhhh actually kuma's devil fruit is already pretty philosophical, seeing as how he can repel actual concepts. if you can repel pain and fatigue, what's stopping him from repelling something like gender, or time? so he could be doing research on human constructs in society and challenging the way society is structured, but that seems more like a humanities subject so maybe he's researching actual physics and delving into something extremely niche about how things get repelled on a molecular level, even by the human touch.

doffy's doing something in the physics field as well. something about gravity and thread and force and manipulation. no one's actually sure, they just know it always ends in him tying invisible string to literally anything and everything in the office and saying it's for his thesis whenever he pisses someone off, which is always. and yes, the worst thing about him is he's always getting good grades, which makes them wonder if it really IS for his thesis, which then makes them somehow even more pissed off, because there shouldnt be any good reason for tripping over all this goddamn thread all the time in the office. 🤦🏻‍♀️

and jinbe is studying movement in water and the human kinetics of it all, also inspired by the martial arts that he does. benefits of training in water, how it strengthens the muscles in different ways, etc. etc. mihawk is very interested to read his paper when he's finished haha.

[thedawningofthehour]

I love the Rise Splinter version so much, that even with the posts and fanfics centered around it I feel like it's not enough is not enough.

I mean, the chapter where they travel into his mind is one of my favorites and whenever I watch it I think about how much I would have loved it to be double length just to see more of his memories.

He is just so interesting.

Just as I would love a trapped-together chapter between Leo and Draxum for this fic, I would have loved an equal one for Draxum and Splinter for their stories in general, the closest we got was in the divorced dads episode, but I would love a situation where they could really open and adress the living weapon situation and its consequences from someone who was raised to be one to someone who thinks it's for the best. I always wondered what would have happened if Draxum had gone with them on the trip to his memories, because as far as we know, Draxum only knows him as Lou Jitsu, he has no idea how much he really had to go through. Sorry, My baronjitsu Brain just don't let me out.

Man, I really need more Splinter Fanfics.

Sadly, for this fic specifically Splinter would strangle Draxum with his tail if they were within six feet of each other.

I don't really get into shipping (Donnie's vague 'somewhere on the ace spectrum but idk where' thing is absolutely projection on my part) but I doubt Splinter would ever be cool with Draxum enough to actually date him. They're both such stubborn assholes, they'd be the type of couple that screams at each other every time they go grocery shopping. Maybe coparents-with-benefits, but that's about it. (honestly, fits with my headcanon that Draxum is mostly aromantic) They're a lot better if they just dad together instead of trying to make a relationship work. They might butt heads a lot, but they love their boys far more than they annoy each other. They're willing to let a lot of things slide if it helps them parent together more effectively.

Unless of course what they're fighting about is parenting. Draxum is a very much an authoritative parent, bordering on authoritarian at times, while Splinter believes in permissive parenting. Draxum's parenting is very structured, even as babies he wants the boys playing with only educational toys and is obsessively monitoring their growth and milestones, he only feeds them nutritious food and doesn't allow dessert except on special occasions, he starts off their training and schooling at a very young age and expects a lot out of them-not unrealistically, he takes their ages and individual ability levels into account, (Donnie is eventually moved away from combat training to focus on his academics, for one) but pretty much every moment of their day is plotted out for them all the time. Splinter on the other hand is like "let them play with the box, aren't you the one always saying that's how kids learn?" He thinks having plenty of unstructured playtime is best, and he's not just saying that because he wants to take a nap while they draw. And he's totally fine with ordering a pizza every couple nights so he doesn't have to cook, or promising his kids ice cream after dinner if it makes them shut up and eat their vegetables. Usually Draxum's will prevails, (it's his house) but when Splinter is watching them he absolutely does not follow any of Draxum's rules.

What makes matters worse is that Bella, Pax, and the gargoyles all agree with Splinter. Which incenses Draxum because he literally has degrees in this, he knows he's right, and Bella and Pax know he is too but they still sneak the kids cookies and let them want non-educational TV programs.

[riteshtomar]

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[inposterumcumgaudio]

Thoughts about class structure in Wellington Wells?

Ooh! A challenge!

So the English love class distinctions and hierarchies and shit. They can hear each other's accents, make tons of socio-economic assumptions based on them, and decide exactly how much respect is owed.

Like most structures in Wellington Wells though, class structure is a crumbling facade built on a shifting foundation. It doesn't bode well for anyone looking for stability in their station, but it does also offer a lot of upward mobility for the more industrious in what would have been the lower classes.

Because we live in a capitalist world, we tend to think of class structure as being built on wealth and everything else follows from that. Money, however, has diminished value in Wellington Wells. If the butcher has no bacon to sell, it doesn't matter how many sovereigns you can offer him for it.

So instead it becomes those things that would follow from one's money that determines one's place in the pyramid.

Location

At face value, class does seem to be divvied up by location. If you're able to get into The Parade, you must be in the upper crust. Only the richest, most important people can get a Letter of Transit and all the fanciest businesses are in there. William Godwin certainly argues that the emerald city is hoarding all the food like fat cats while the people in The Village are eating charcoal.

But I think the requirement of the Letter of Transit is more about social utility than class, although these things can go hand in hand.

If you look at the businesses that inhabit the Parade, you'll find most of Wellington Wells' bureaucratic and civil service offices, several social organizations, as well as the bank, a law firm, and Turing Electric Security's corporate HQ. Basically all stuff that benefits from and relies on social stability. If you live or work in the Parade and thus have a standing Letter of Transit, it's not because you are wealthy necessarily. Arthur certainly wasn't rich if he was renting from Mrs. Hudson.

No, if you're allowed to come and go as you please (letter in hand, of course) it's because you've been determined to not be a threat to the status quo. It's like that Upton Sinclair quote. "It is difficult to get a man to understand something, when his salary depends on his not understanding it." The people in the Parade are especially motivated not to see any problems and to insist that everything is fine, even though they are much more likely to be exposed to the realities here. They are trusted to do this. Indeed, the Department of Archives, Printing, and Recycling and the Sanitation and Book Disposal offices require employees possessed of great strength for cognitive dissonance in order to protect the rest of the village who might not.

Being this sort of person certainly does help one along the path to upward mobility. Most of the best paying jobs are located in the Parade so getting in is the first step. But it's only one of many variables in the class status equation.

Home Ownership

Like most things in Wellington Wells, housing is in short supply. As more buildings fall into disrepair, more and more people are forced to shack up in the ones that remain which is why most homes in the Village are populated by seemingly unrelated people and many further are even sharing beds. This is only exacerbated by people being forced to abandon their family homes in the Garden District (and only gently eased by others having to return there after becoming Downers).

But there are those who own homes all to themselves. Sally Boyle notably has her own home (but is demonstrably broke when we play as her), Nick Lightbearer has a house to himself, Gemma Olsen and Dr. Faraday do as well, Dr. Verloc is said to have inherited his from his uncle. Victoria Byng has an actual fucking mansion to herself. Both Lawrence brothers owned homes and indeed the Colonel's daughters are quite antsy to inherit.

Inheriting is the only realistic way to obtain real estate in Wellington Wells anymore, as sales are likely few and far between unless you're speculatively investing in neighborhoods that are undergoing gentrification "beautification". As for everyone else, they're all waiting for Mrs. Chaney's house to hit the market and be sold for an obscene ransom, likely to be turned into another rental for six or more Wellies to share. Or if those six Wellies pool their funds and manage to beat out the other offers, they could form a co-op. Gotta be optimistic!

To that end, there are two notable examples of this and I think they are very different responses to housing scarcity with similar outcomes: Thomasina House and The Hippocratic Club.

Thomasina House is inhabited by Criers. Though not expressly stated in the game, many Criers are married to men serving in the Victory Memorial Camp and have been since the war. (Soliders have lines mentioning their wives and there was a cut quest where you could spy on a soldier's wife in the Village for him.) Soldiers do collect a reliable paycheck, so presumably most Criers are being supported that way. Otherwise (or in addition) some have jobs themselves (Mrs. Pankhurst's sewing shop, Madame Wanda's Reform Club). While I don't think any Criers are what we'd call rich, I don't think many of them are poor either. None of the Criers in Thomasina House speak of any work, so we can assume they're comfortably retired.

So it begs the question why a group of them would choose to live together if they could afford to live alone.

While living communally like this is cost effective, I would bet that for many of them, it's just the community and security of living with other women of their same age. When walking around Thomasina House, one does not hear of any arguments or difficulties living with one another. Additionally, once (if) one's children have moved out of the house, a home large enough to house them is now too much work to maintain. Maybe even you let the kids have the house to give them a leg up. Moving to the home for ladies of a certain age is basically the Wellington Wells version of boomers selling their McMansions, downsizing to a smaller and less expensive home, and living off the profit.

Contrast this to the Hippo Club, where Doctors live.

I think the Hippo Club is the opposite situation happening: men who would have expected to be able to secure homes for themselves with the money their education should have brought them cannot. It's not that they aren't well compensated; I'm sure Doctors still make a fine living. It's just that there are no homes for them to buy. The Doctors who live at the Hippo Club got in the game too late.

Imagine putting all that effort into your studies, expecting to make your mom proud, and yet here you are, in your 40's beyond, living with roommates who won't do their share of the chores and are constantly fucking with you.

It's no wonder Sam is fed up and Dr. Hughes won't even let anyone else on his floor.

The Hippo Club is essentially a frat house. I would suspect the house is actually owned by Wellington Health Institute so its inhabitants feel no pride in or ownership over it. They are notably immature. They pull pranks on each other, vandalize the premises, they've no discipline for keeping the place tidy, and they have interpersonal quarrels. That they do not get along suggests that some of them at least only live there because they have to.

And it makes sense that there's a sense of arrested development there. If society does not fulfill its end of the bargain and give them the means to advance in their lives, then they will happily - defiantly - stay at their current one!

There is one sure way to know where someone is on the class scale though: do they have a maid?

Victoria has a live-in maid. We never meet her, but she's enough of a fixture that the Constables expect her to make them a sandwich every day.

Nick also had a maid, although his probably cleaned other people's homes as well, if she can afford to quit.

Although there are outliers that should not be counted:

Keeping Up with the Burne-Joneses

This one is tricky because as in real life, one can affect the look of wealth without actually being wealthy. Especially in a world where there isn't a lot you can buy to be conspicuous about it. Compliment machines, custom happy face masks, designer drugs. Coffee beans without quotation marks and butter to make a cake for an office party perhaps.

I'd say if you've got a unique outfit in the game, you're probably achieving this one. Victoria, Sally, and Nick all have outfits that where made only for them.

I think the most conspicuous consumption in the game has to be Sally's pregnancy dress.

This dovetails with another opinion I have, that Davey Hackney designed Wellington Wells' mod fashion not just around the idea of optimistic modernity, but also to use less fabric because - again - limited supply of material. The mod look requires even less than war time rationed 40's styles; it was merely the trick of convincing the people of the new aesthetic (in real life, the mod style was a backlash to the 50's New Look and its yards upon yards of fabric but because England lost the war here, there's never a New Look to rebel against).

That a girl can now buy a bright new dress in a simple cut made of no more than three yards of fabric keeps the economy moving and the morale high. Davey Hackney is doing his patriotic duty. There's a reason his atelier is in the Parade.

But Sally's pregnancy dress flies in the face of that. So much so that I don't think this was trendy at all. It might even have never been available for anyone else to buy.

I like to think Sally pitched this to Davey in this way: yes, you're going to make a really weird - "outrageous" and kinda ugly if we're being honest - dress and no one in their right mind will want to buy it. But that's okay because it will cost so much that they wouldn't be able to afford it even if they were mad enough to want it. And Davey went for it because while he does love to make money, I'm sure, he also loves exclusivity. What is even the point of being rich and fabulous if the prole hovel is filled with lookalikes wearing Mrs. Pankhurst's admittedly good knock-offs? But this? Mrs. Pankhurst cannot afford to make this. And frankly, she wouldn't understand it at all. This? This is a statement!

But Sally is just the model here. Yes, she's got this one-of-a-kind dress made of an offensive amount of fabric in this context, but she probably didn't pay for it either. It's another favor. Sally is actually just the expression of Davey's conspicuous consumption!

Money, Power, Women

In America, first you get the money, then you get the power, then you get the women. At least in 80's Miami. In 60's Wellington Wells? Ehhhhh.

General Byng probably has some generational wealth going for him that he and Victoria are benefiting from. Seems unlikely Victoria could have secured a house that big unless her father bought it years ago. They clearly have money and they appear to have power.

But do they actually?

As we come to learn in Victoria's DLC, she's not really that powerful at all. She organizes social events and makes very important decisions and about very important things. She's in charge of a relatively important document management department, but that's still just middle management. You'd almost get the impression that she's been afforded a lot of latitude as General Byng's daughter and now everyone is just giving her "big" jobs to let her feel important.

General Byng, on the other hand, would seem to have actual power. The constabulary is under his thumb and even Dr. Verloc's Doctors are cautious about overstepping his bounds... except he readily admits that his powers are limited by the Executive Committee, who has cast him out to the Victory Memorial Camp.

But as we find out in Ollie's act, the Executive Committee aren't exactly a force to be reckoned with either. (And as far as class goes, we have no way to know but they look like Just Some Guys).

Not a lot of places where the organizational chart is a fucking circle. And I would say only half of these people come from means. Johnny Bolton was probably compensated fairly for his service (gotta head off the M in MICE, after all), but apparently he needed a side hustle if he was running a bookstore too. Chief Constable Peters probably isn't diving into his Scrooge McDuck vault of sovereigns after a long day of patrolling the bridge. Nor is Penelope Snug, even if she's actually in charge of all infrastructure and not just motilene.

Haves and Have-Nots

There is only one real solid class distinction in Wellington Wells: Wellies and Wastrels.

Even here though, there's nuance. It's not so easy to say that the worst Wellie life is better than the best Wastrel life.

For one thing, I think there are some Wastrels who chose the life, rather than being forced into it. Ollie obviously did this, but I also think Eric Liddell chose the Garden District intentionally since running is forbidden in the Village. I also think Nigel Lawson's a good candidate for this narrative, someone who could return to the Village but chooses not to.

By contrast, the suicide party in Victoria's DLC had histoplasma mushrooms. Wherever would Wellies have gotten those unless they'd tried their luck in the Garden District before deciding to end it all?

The thing about Wastrels though is that usually in a class structure, you need people on the bottom in order to have someone for the upper classes to exploit and build their wealth on the backs of. Wastrels are not being exploited though; they've been abandoned, exiled. Downers serve no purpose in Village society and so they've been cast out entirely.

If there was a way to make money off Downers, aside from selling them Sunshine, I'm sure some enterprising individual would have thought of it.

Maybe it's just that money has a finite upper limit on how much happiness it can buy you when happiness is also a choice you're free to make on any street corner and there's little else for sale.

[catboyaesthetic]

Ironsworn

The following story has been created with the use of the Solo RPG "Ironsworn." I'm still learning the system and it's equal parts unwieldy and intuitive. It's nonetheless a very rewarding system and a great way of digging into my own creativity. I would highly recommend it if you have the time to get to grips with it.

I've tinkered with it a little bit to fit a character from my own personal worldbuilding project into it, and as such, it's not as representative of the game as it might have been had I generated a character specifically inside the world. The reason for this was the fact that I thought it was cool to integrate my world with this one.

The Journey Begins

All has been set in motion. A week ago I was informed of my new post in a place called “the Ironlands” by the Volcaptain. The talk was short as they often are, but this felt almost cold and distant, where usually the curtness feels professional. To convey in as few words as possible is considered a virtue, but this involves Lena, and to hear the mission that involves her be spoken of so curtly rubs me wrong. It is how we always do things, but to know it’s about her feels different. The main post is to aid the Ironlands, of course. There’s been reports of something called “black iron” being mined there, and the higher-ups believed it’s a synonym for the Elder Mineral. I am to investigate these reports and otherwise present as good of an image of Sunspire as I can. I still find the position odd. To be diplomatic emissary, expeditionary force, assassin, courtier, foreign army and sword-for-hire all in the same person makes me feel as if I am to be a superhuman extension of the Merchant-Kings. But I’m just a man. I bleed. I laugh. I weep. I think tonight I’ll go on that trip down the Halls of Joy I’ve always promised myself. It might be the last time I can distract myself the fullest.

Aboard the Fortune’s Call

As I sail aboard the Fortune’s Call, the air is crisp and full of shouting. Wherever I turn, there is command. Authority, it seems, is infectious, especially aboard a ship this size. It feels like a floating fortress with how many cannons rest on either side, which seem unnecessarily high. The place called the aftcastle is true to its name with how vast the structure is. Decorated with vivid colour and intricate carvings in the shape of lionheads, suns and other ornate ornamentation, it seems every bit a wooden manor. We’re only short a green field to truly complete the picture. While I’m hardly considered to be an authority on taste, I find the whole picture rather gaudy. The man who captains this vessel is equally as colourful in his attire, his manner and his general demeanor. For all his flaws in taste, I do enjoy the man. If there is one benefit to being a Spiresworn, it’s the ability to outrank most everyone in the city. Subsequently, I am considered to be on not just equal, but higher ranked company to the captain. Though I do surrender to his authority on this vessel. Despite my experience, I haven’t the foggiest idea of how to run a ship, let alone run it well. Captain Perrenen has that well in hand, and I believe we have an understanding that I do not muddy his command by inserting myself and he subsequently does not ask questions he ought not to. Thus we spend our time together pleasantly and dedicated to conversation. He is an exceptional rhetorician and his mind is sharp as the saber he carries. On more than one occasion he has managed to stump me, wielding his arguments as deftly as I hope he wields that sword.

 

It didn’t take long for us to reach our first waypoint of the journey, a port called Heragon, I couldn’t make out a word of the language, but the people were pleasant and helpful. I got to try several delicacies which I believe Captain Perrenen later paid for – being more accustomed with the way things worked. I should have known, of course, that that was a swindle rather than a kindness, but the good captain had the decency to only laugh at me in private. I believe he is the only person whom I have ever enjoyed calling me a fool.

 

(Undertake a journey 4+3 vs. 9 and 3 – Weak Hit.)

We set sail again before long. In what I understand to be a stroke of good luck, the winds have favoured us thus far. I spend my nights with Captain Perrenen, discussing this and that, and somehow never quite running out of things to talk about. Despite myself, I find myself drawn to him, and whether it’s been weeks or months, the attraction only grows stronger. He doesn’t flatter me the way that I’m used to, no shallow compliments, no deference to rank. He talks to me like a person. He asks me about my ways of thinking, my interests. He treats me like a human being, not the arm of the Merchant-Kings.

I find I look forward to the evening discussions we have. To have him to myself for a while where I do not see Captain Perrenen, but only Hann. I say ‘only’ but he is only a captain. As a man, he is so much more. He loves the sound of the ship as it hits the waves, urian tea drawn from barab roots for exactly 5 minutes, something which makes the drink exceedingly bitter and which provides something of a comic contrast to his otherwise sweet disposition. He loves the sunrise, singing, and the sea. All sailors do, in their own way. Lately I find my arguments do not have their old sharpness as I focus on the wrinkles around his eyes from what is still a very short life spent laughing often and loudly. The sound of his voice as he calls my name and tries to draw me out of my musings. The way he looks at me with might be a knowing smile. I don’t know. The weeks soar by, the winds favour us, and we spend our evenings together. For a time, the world is small and peaceful.

 

(Undertake a journey: 5+3 vs 5 and 2 – Strong Hit.)

The seas are good to us. We make such good progress that somewhere, I feel a pang of regret that it will be over soon. The routine over the past few months has become so ingrained that I would almost feel like I’d be throwing part of me away when I have to step off this ship. It’s something I remind myself of often, especially as Hann and I sit and talk. We’ve gone far beyond battling wits the last few weeks. Perhaps it’s just me, but there is a weight to the conversations we have now, a tension. The way he laughs is different, but no less attractive and I’ve noticed that he looks at me differently. It’s only then that I realize I don’t know what goes on in that head of his, and I would desperately like to know. Sometimes he hides his mouth behind his hand as he listens to me, and I find myself hoping he’s smiling. I find myself feeling as if I were a prey in the eyes of the hawk. I feel he sees me in a way that I find thrilling. I also find myself skirting around certain topics or words because I am afraid they would not sit well with him, despite him never giving any indication of displeasure. In fact, he seems to be somewhat diminished every time I draw away from what might be something risqué. I think he’s hoping for the same thing I am. But what is it exactly that I’m hoping for? Outside of this room we are the same as always. He is Captain Perennen and I am Fyodor, a high-paying nobody for all intents and purposes, which allows me all the privileges wealth can afford aboard his ship – so long as it does not interfere with its functioning. But despite how small this ship is, I feel worlds apart from him. My mind churns and a need that will not be reasoned with rises with every evening he sits and looks at me like he wants the same thing. Or am I just seeing what I want to see? Am I so caught up in my own experience I forget the rest of the world? It wouldn’t be the first time. Lena often said I was prone to egotism, and despite my best efforts to rectify this, I can still get caught up in the whirlwind. There are so many things to dislike about him. As I try to remind myself of them to still the hunger, I find they’ve all disappeared. It would be cruel, I think to myself, to simply consume such a beautiful a man. To use him for my selfish purposes and discard him once we arrive. Soon we will be oceans apart again. Time will be kind to the memory but not the feeling. I would miss him. Worse yet, I fear that I would miss him more than he would miss me. I could write, but would I? I know myself, or at least I try to, and I have historically always been a evasive lover. Quick to action, slow to attach. It comes with the work, I think. I try not to think on it further.

 

(Undertake a journey 5+3 vs 5 and 1 – Strong Hit.)

My heart sinks as the news reaches us that our destination lies on the horizon. I didn’t think I still had it in me to dread. I glance to Hann as he stands on the balcony of his aftcastle, in every way the picture of the noble captain as he gazes towards the horizon. For the fifth time today, I wonder what he’s thinking. I wonder if he feels the same grief I do. I’m not sure why. Perhaps the adage that misery loves company is truer than I ever thought it to be. I remind myself that all I feel, I feel alone. I do not know what goes on in his head, and for all intents and purposes, his acceptance of my presence has been a calculated indulgence. But even as I remind myself, I find I do not want to believe it. I would rather believe the delusion – if indeed it is – and pine for a man in so many ways my better. You do not get many comforts in this line of work. Spiresworn are meant to be the bastions of the Merchant-Kings around the Known World. But even if each of us are built up to be castles of our own accord, we all rule alone. How thicker the walls and how vast the defenses, the lonelier it is.

Hann catches me staring. I do not have the decency to look away. Rather I take the opportunity to carve him into my memory. If it is not to be, I would like to remember him. To put this finely-honed mind to work remembering a man who was kind to a stranger, a father to his crew and the envy of the sun with the warmth and light he brought to the lives of those around him. I am pulled from my reverie by the sound of his voice, carrying a tone he’s never used with me before.

“Mister Koningszoon, if you’d care to join me in my quarters, I have something I’d like to discuss.” He dismisses his inner circle of officers, then turns and enters his quarters. He speaks to me as if I were a crewmen, with courteous authority – and the implicit expectation he is to be heeded. Something in me bristles at it, yet the largest part is awash with crackling anticipation. I keep my composure, my strides measured, and knock courteously on Hann’s door – The Captain’s door, I remind myself – to announce my arrival. I enter by his command, and the moment the door shuts behind me, Hann’s lips are on mine and his hands are grasping my face and the world melts away in the wake of his affection and the flush of warmth that rushes through me. I taste how hungry he really is, how desperate. How badly he wants to grasp me but even in this desperate heat of the moment, he remains soft and kind and considerate and I want to let him take all he wants as reward for his kindness. Whether he means to pull my hair or strip me or debase me in ways that tumble over each other in my head is irrelevant. For a moment I am his and he is mine and we are only Hann and Fyodor in a floating wooden fortress and barely hours until we are cruelly separated once again. As we continue to kiss and grab at each other, almost as if to confirm that the other is truly real and this is really happening, I let him lead me wherever he wants. We don’t need to speak. We know what we want. We’ve known for weeks – months – what it is we’ve wanted and only now have we found the courage to act.

The brief bout of pleasure and the eternity of joy we spend together after is too short. The beginning of the end comes by way of a simple crewman, relaying a message of our arrival. I try not to weep. Hann holds me, kisses my head and assures me that this won’t be the last time we’ll see each other. He promises to write me. I thank him, knowing I won’t. Knowing he truly is too good of a man for the likes of me.

Damula

As I travel in a vessel vastly underwhelming after months on the Fortune’s Call, I am informed by my ferrywoman the place we’re heading toward is called Damula. A strange name, that even seems to sound wrong out of my ferrywoman’s mouth. Still, the sound of it seems to somehow fit the accent she has. The word itself is thick with history. I find it hard to concentrate as I look back towards the dot on the horizon that has been all the world for the past few months, captained by what had been my home until today. I ask the Ferrywoman what Damula means.

(6+3 Wits vs. 8 and 9 = Weak Hit.)

The ferrywoman thinks on it for a moment, seeming unsure herself. She then tells me it was a word from “those who came before.” Who or what they were or where they come from remains a mystery, and I think I have already overstayed my ferrywoman’s patience with my questions. My own patience is running thin also, and so I overlook the landscape that is steadily drawing closer.

Despite the withered landscape, it has a beautiful quality to it. It seems as if time has passed this place by. The trees that might have once grown here have been cut down and usurped into the buildings of Damula, and it seems they have neglected to plant new ones. Yet somehow, it has enhanced the landscape, not made it worse. I dread to think on the ecosystem, however. What do they burn to keep warm? Do they keep warm? This wind chills me to the soul and the gray skies that always threaten rain make the season difficult to distinguish.

I’ve already paid the ferrywoman whom I have neglected to ask her name. She didn’t seem the talkative type to begin with, but now that we’ve begun I feel compelled to do so. She tells me her name is Makari. When I ask for her last name, she looks at me like I’ve asked her what colour the water is. It seems these are in short supply. In hopes of not drawing attention to myself – something I have already radically failed at – I tell her my name is Fyodor. She finds the name strange, yet tells me it has a certain melodic quality to it. An observation I find ill-fitting of a ferrywoman, yet nonetheless flattering and indicative of an interest and mind I did not think to find within this ferrywoman. Which itself is a sentiment I find myself somewhat embarrassed of. In hopes of distracting myself from it, I put on my best smile and ask her if she enjoys music. She nods as she adjusts the sails and seems to think on it for a moment. Weighing some unknown thought, she shakes her head and simply looks out across the water once more, the conversation and her interest slipping through my fingers. Despite myself, I find myself all the more eager to pursue her attention. I weigh the likelihood of my chances of her interest and find myself humbled by her stoic interest in the journey. I find myself somewhat forlorn, the rejection like a knife between my ribs. But we are strangers, ultimately. And she is a competent sailor. I find myself thinking on what it would be like to be the sole focus of that magnificent attention. For a moment, I am warm.

I part from Makari with a curt goodbye. Vainly I wonder if she will miss me. I will certain miss her. The sight of her arms bending the ship to her will, the way she gazed across the waves and seemed to be able to take stock of a person with but a glance. There is a hardness and an honesty to her. I look back at her, and to my surprise I find her looking back at me as well. I can’t quite tell, but it almost seems like she smiles for a moment. Then she’s gone again, likely never to be seen and I am, as always, alone.

Naturally, I look for the closest thing resembling a tavern.

(3+3 Wits vs. 6 and 10 = Weak Hit.)

When I approach a stranger in hopes of information, I am met with one of the coldest glares I’ve seen to date. I greet the woman and she leers at me as if to let me out of her sight means I’d rob her blind. “Good day to you and yours, friend,” I begin, and despite her obvious suspicion, she seems to relax a little. “To you as well,” she replies, looking me over with a gaze I’d much prefer held more interest than the current weighing it did. Her arms are broad, her brown hair is short and her eyes are a dark green one could get lost in, as I find myself doing before I catch myself and continue. “Would you happen to know if there is a watering hole nearby?” She looks at me like Makari did, as if I’d just ask what the colour of water is. “No,” she replies curtly. I can feel her judge me to be a fool and in the process of be forgotten. While I would usually prefer it that way, I find myself compelled to correct the notion. “Ah, perhaps I was too broad in my description. I meant to ask for a place where one might find a drink.”

The woman looks up and the realization as to my earlier meaning seems to dawn on her. “Ahh, you mean like Kendi’s Rest? Sure there is.” Her brief moment of helpfulness is swiftly interrupted by her earlier measurement of me. “Typically only locals visit Kendi’s Rest. We don’t get many visitors here.” There is suspicion in her gaze and in her voice.

(Secure an advantage, 2+3 vs 8 and 7 = Miss.)

Something compels to engage with the adage that honesty is the best policy. “Well, it’s true enough that I am a stranger to these parts, and it’s not without reason I’ve come to this place.” I barely catch myself from insulting this place, the words “shithole” and “pit” presenting themselves long before “place” ever does. “I’ve come looking for someone, and while I’m relatively certain there’s no trail of her here, I figured I have to start asking questions somewhere.”

The stranger regards me with even more suspicion, and gradually rises up from her work. She seems to loosen herself up somewhat, and I can take a guess as to what. However, the need for it seems unwarranted, and I am more than a little confused as towards the display of naked preparation for hostilities. I raise my hands defensively, more than able to read the room. “Listen, I mean no harm to you or anyone here, nor do I want to imply that you’re the ones responsible. I simply want to know where my friend is.”

“Something tells me I don’t like you. A stranger come from who knows where asking questions about who knows who. I don’t know who your friend is, and I don’t know why you’ve come looking for her, but I think you oughta leave to somewhere better for your health.” The woman growls, having drawn herself up to her full height. She is lean from hard work, broad with muscle. I don’t think she takes well to being threatened. But I don’t have time for this, harangued by the second person I run into in this shithole of a village, searching for a drink, heartbroken and months away from civilization. The mask of the aloof fool drops and I take a step forward to loom over her. Something twitches to life in my chest and my eyes sear with the knowledge of countless battles. The sight of lives I have taken made adds weight to my gaze. I level it upon her and let the vast shadow of my sins cast over her. I am the monster once again. “I think this place suits me just fine.” I speak with a tone as sharp as a knife’s edge. “I also think we should go about our respective business,” I continue, adding with as much venom as I can muster “for your health.”

(Compel, 2+4 Iron vs 3 and 4. – Strong Hit)

She withers underneath my gaze, shrinking away from me. I see the shame in her face from buckling. She tries to catch herself but she knows the game is up. For a moment, she seems a girl in pants far too large for her. “Maybe that’s for the best,” she replies in a voice that has lost all of its confidence. I let the monster slip off of me and once more, I am the pleasant, forgettable everyman. As she turns around to return to her work, I feel a sting of regret. Perhaps I should have tried to talk to her differently. But how? I don’t know what these people are like. I barely got here and already I’ve almost gotten myself into a fight.

 

I head towards the gathering place of this town, Kendi’s Rest. As I step inside, the heads of six patrons turn to look at me. They seem to collectively realise that I am not a resident of the town, and as such, they stare. It seems I have my work cut out for me not to stand out. Despite the earlier failure, I put on my best smile and greet the scowling faces which refuse to stop staring at me. “Greetings, all!” I begin, my voice thunderous from experience commanding troops, in hopes of easing their hostility. From my earlier encounter I think to myself that they might appreciate bluntness. “I suppose I’ll not dally or taint your day further with endless pleasantry and get straight to the point. Has anyone here happened to have heard of a woman called “Lena?””

( Compel 5+3 Heart vs 7 and 3. – Strong Hit! )

There is some grumbling and murmuring, but finally one person speaks up. “Aye!” He says with a voice that would make the rocks envious with how rough it is, “I’ve heard of a Lena!” I look at him, realizing he’s the first man I’ve seen on this island and quickly make my way over, smiling still but reading his face to see if he’s lying.

( Gather information, 2+3 Wits vs. 9 and 2. – Weak Hit. )

For all I can see, the man is perfectly sincere. I sit down beside him and try to keep my smile as natural and relaxed as I am. Within, my heart is pounding away at my chest. Surely it can’t be this easy? The third person I talk to, and I’ve got a lead?

“A fine woman she was! I remember the way she used to scold me for slacking on my duties.” The man lets out a chuckle, a sound like rocks scraping against one another, and I realise the man is quite up there in years already. The fire from the torches occasionally darken the grooves within the man’s face, worn by time. He lets out a sigh and shakes his head. “It’s a shame she passed away. But that’s the way of things.”

My heart sinks and in my shock, I forget to wear the mask of emotion. “She’s dead?” I ask the man. He looks at me like the other two have before him, like I asked what the colour of water is. “Well, yeah, man! Do you expect us to live forever? She was quite up there in years already.”

Again, my shock overtakes me, this time with a frown. “Wait, what do you mean she was up there in years already?” Now it’s the man’s turn to scowl. “Like I said, man! Are you slow? She was old! Quite old, in fact. Ancient by anyone’s reckoning! We used to joke she might outlive us all! Bahaha!’

Despite the sound of his laughter akin to an avalanche filling the drinking hovel, I feel a warm sense of relief fill my stomach. A feeling quickly replaced by frustration. While I’m happy to hear she’s not dead, I’m back to nothing after thinking I found myself a lead. I put on the smile once more and thank the man, saying that I don’t think we’re looking for the same person.

“Oh? Well, good luck to you, then. Oh, and uh… spare a kindness for an old man?” He asks with a mischievous grin, holding up his empty tankard. I ponder for a moment, before I pull out my pockets and show that I don’t even have a cog to my name. “Hah! Maybe I should offer you a kindness, eh?” The man laughs, and where I briefly expect him to offer some kind of alms, he merely gives me more laughter. Then he realizes I’m still there and gestures with his tankard for me to leave. “Go on, off you fuck.” He says, without losing any of his pleasant demeanor, and with a mixture of shock and admiration, I do just that.

I head towards what passes for a bar and hail the person behind it – a woman, who seem to be more ubiquitous than men so far. She heads over and gives me a curt nod. Before she can ask me for my order, I tell her I don’t have anything to pay with. She sets her hands on the bar, leans forward, curls up her upper lip in contempt and asks: “Then what are you doing here, stranger?” I tell her I’m looking for information on a woman named Lena. “Never heard of her,” she replies, and makes to leave.

“Then what news is there? Surely there must be something keeping you busy around these parts?” I quickly ask before she turns around fully. She seems to be anything but eager to talk to me.

( Compel, 3+3 Heart vs 1 and 7 – Weak Hit. )

I put on my best smile and decide to engage in a bit of flattery. “Surely this place is where all the important people gather. And a woman like you seems like she knows the value of information.” I tell her. It seems to evoke little other than the raise of an eyebrow, but at the very least, she seems curious. “I do,” she replies curtly, “well enough to know that I don’t simply give it out for free. Especially not to every passing stranger that enters my tavern.”

I put two and two together. “You must be Kendi then,” I ask, to which she performs a mock curtsy with nonetheless perfect form. She must have practiced that quite a bit. “The very same. Now, you know who I am and seem to be the observant sort. But I’m not in the business of wondering, I’m in the business of knowing.” She throws her drying cloth over her shoulder and sets her hands on her hips before jerking her head up expectantly and looking me over. “What’s your name?” She asks, expecting to be answered. I oblige. “Fyodor,” I swallow the urge to say my last name, I’ve stood out enough already and the custom of last names seems to be unfortunately absent. “Well, Fyodor,” Kendi begins, “I could tell you what occupies this beautiful town of ours, but I’d like to ask you a few things first.”

At her mercy, I throw up my hands before opening them before her. “Whatever you’d like to know,” I tell her. She narrows her eyes for a moment and she wastes no time. “Where are you from, Fyodor?” “Sunspire,” I answer truthfully. Kendi shrugs, “Never heard of it. Though that does makes you an outlander.” She notes. I raise an eyebrow. “Is that a problem?” “No,” she answers, continuing on. “What are you doing in Damula?” Now it’s my turn to shrug. “Like I said, I’m looking for a woman called Lena.” Kendi’s interest is visibly piqued. “What is she to you?” A flood of images and feelings wash over me, but no words come until heartbeats later. “Someone I could not stand to lose.” I answer, surprised by my own obfuscation. Kendi shakes her head, looking me in the eye while I briefly drown in remembering. “No no, you don’t get off that easy. What is she to you? Family? Friend? A loved one?” “All that and more,” I reply without missing a beat. The mask of pleasantness is gone. I look at her with all the desperation that I hold within and it seems to strike a chord with her. Kendi’s expression softens somewhat, and the questions cease. For a heartbeat I think I spy a glimmer of respect in her gaze before she carries on cleaning. After a while, she begins to speak unprompted. She seems a little tense as she does so, and much to my surprise after her earlier demeanor, she drops her volume.

“News around here is always slow. But lately people around here can’t seem to stop worrying about the dead.” “The dead?” I ask incredulously before I can help myself, and Kendi gives me a scathing look that tells me I spoke too loudly. “Yes, Fyodor. The dead.” Her eyes grow distant as she tries to focus on cleaning this one particular tankard rather intensely. “Everybody wants to be the one that solves the problem, as that would ensure you spend the rest of your life living luxuriously wherever you go.” I tap a finger on the sad excuse for a bar as I think. “Why?” I wonder aloud, and Kendi looks at me like everyone before her has; like I asked what the colour of water is. It seems to be becoming something of a tradition. “Because,” Kendi begins with a tone that makes it clear it is the most obvious thing in the world, “the Dead have been restless for years now and no one knows why. They’ve been assaulting this town every night for weeks.” She looks at me for a long while in silence before realizing. “You don’t know, do you? They don’t just walk again, they are organized. They are coming, Fyodor. Every night, they come.”

Despite my proximity to the hearth which crackles comfortingly beside me, a chill goes through me. Yet another peril to add to the list amidst hostile but strangely helpful Ironlanders, now the Innumerable seem to have reached even here. I nod my head upwards towards Kendi, “Have you heard of the Innumerable?” I ask. Kendi raises an eyebrow, but shakes her head. “Why, who are they?” I ponder for a moment whether to tell her, but decide for it seeing how free she has been with her information. “The Innumerable,” I begin after leaning in conspiratorially, “are known as the Heirs of the Ashes and are effectively the nation of the dead.” Kendi lets out a skeptical puff of air and I beckon her back over. “No, no, I’m serious. Wherever there are bodies in the ground, they claim dominion.” “So they’d consider this place theirs as well?” Kendi asks. I throw up my hands as if to indicate it’s out of my hands, and nod. Kendi lets out a sharp laugh. “Don’t be ridiculous. What, so the dead have a nation, with a king and everything? And cities?” She seems genuinely curious before a grin slowly spread across her lips that suits her particularly well. “Come off it, you’re pulling my leg.” I scowl and shake my head. Kendi’s grin drops. “I told you, I’m serious. I don’t know how they’re organized exactly, I do know that—” I catch myself before I reach into information which is privy only to a handful of people even within Sunspire. Kendi looks at me expectantly, raising her eyebrows as if to indicate “go on.” Then, after realizing I was not going to continue, lets out a ‘tch’ and shakes her head. “Anyway, that’s what’s occupying people at the moment. Staying alive.”

I continue to tap my finger on the bar as I mull over the information. Technically all the dead are part of the Innumerable. But it may very well be that this… outbreak? That it might have nothing to do with them. The unfortunate part of having to deal with a nation of the dead is that not everything can be seen as a formal action by a nation as living agents would undertake them. The application of magicae to purposes of reanimation does not necessarily make that corpse part of the Innumerable. Yet by virtue of being dead, it is. I hope we have rhetoricians or diplomats better suited to distinguishing between formal actions of the Innumerable and deciding what is the actions of a brainless bag of bones.

Still, the problem remains. The dead are assaulting the Damula every night. Are they driven by instinct or do they have some kind of leadership guiding them? These questions are redundant. What matters is that I promised to help this place where I could to the Merchant-Kings. And these people need help.

“Alright,” I say aloud, nodding. “

( Swear an Iron Vow, 4+3 Heart vs 8 and 10. )

I look at Kendri, who looks back at me with a certain suspicion. My voice is clear and grave as I speak “I promise to help safeguard Damula from the onslaught of the Dead in the name of the Merchant-Kings. This I vow.”

“With what?” Kendri asks drily, made all the more chafing in the wake of my grave declaration. She looks me over once again and grins. “Last I saw, you didn’t have any weapons or armour. You don’t have a scrap to your name, and for all I know, you’re a bumpkin blowhard. What are you gonna do? Talk the dead to death? Oh wait.”

Some of the patrons chuckle at her joke, and I find myself somewhat embarrassed. But she’s right. As capable as I am, I’d do much more damage with a weapon than without. Before I can properly fulfill my vow, I should fix that. I thank Kendri for the information and the company, and she replies she feels the same with a surprising amount of warmth. Before I can do anything of note I should find the tools with which to deal with this harsh lands. Whether axe or sword or mace, I need something more to defend myself than just wit and wiles. I step out of the warmth of the tavern and back into the cold gray of Damula.

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Affiliate Marketing Unleashed: Top Influencers Share Their Insider Tips for Massive Success!

Affiliate marketing is an exciting industry whose potential is as limitless as the Internet itself. In this article, I’ll be taking you on a trip in which some of the most influential people in the world of affiliate marketing will reveal their trade secrets.

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If you’ve ever dreamt of transforming your online presence into a money-making powerhouse, you’re in for a treat. Affiliate marketing, when done right, has the potential to turn your passion and dedication into a lucrative endeavor. It’s not just about promoting products; it’s about building a thriving online business. With the insights and strategies that lie ahead, you’ll be well-equipped to unleash the full potential of affiliate marketing and chart a course towards massive success. So, fasten your seatbelt, because we’re about to dive into a world where affiliate marketing knows no bounds.

1. Understanding Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing knowledge is the cornerstone of your success. Affiliates in this model market a product or service in exchange for a commission on any sales made or leads generated as a result of their efforts. Both the company and the affiliates benefit from this arrangement. You may lay the groundwork for being a successful affiliate marketer by learning about this ecosystem and the interplay between influencers, affiliate programmes, and customers.

2. The Power of Influencers

In affiliate marketing, the influence of influencers is unparalleled. These individuals, who frequently have considerable online followings, have the ability to influence and motivate their audiences. Their endorsements are regarded as reliable, making their marketing efforts extremely effective. Influencer marketing grants you access to a loyal, engaged audience, thereby enhancing your affiliate success. Consequently, understanding how to collaborate with influencers is an essential component of your affiliate marketing strategy.

3. What to Expect in this Blog Post

This blog post will provide you with the essential insights you need to succeed in affiliate marketing. We’ll go over everything from choosing the best affiliate programmes to creating high-converting websites, using social media and email marketing, mastering content production and SEO methods, and eventually, monetizing your affiliate marketing company. By the conclusion, you’ll have gained insider knowledge and effective advice to catapult your affiliate marketing path to huge success. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

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4. Choosing the Right Affiliate Programs

Choosing the right affiliate programs is a critical first step in your affiliate marketing journey. It involves identifying your niche, researching available programs, evaluating commission structures, and carefully examining affiliate policies. These decisions will lay the foundation for your success. Let’s break down the essential steps for program selection.

Identifying Your Niche

Your niche defines your audience. Consider your interests, expertise, and passions. Finding a niche you’re passionate about makes your marketing efforts feel less like work and more like a hobby.

Researching Affiliate Programs

Scour the internet for affiliate programs that fit your niche. Make a list of potential candidates and gather information about their reputation and performance.

Evaluating Commission Structures

Compare commission rates among different programs. While high commissions are attractive, ensure that the products or services are of high quality and relevant to your audience.

Examining Affiliate Policies

Read the affiliate program’s terms and conditions carefully. Pay attention to payment schedules, cookie durations, and any restrictions that might affect your marketing strategies.

5. Building a High-Converting Website

Building a high-converting website is the cornerstone of successful affiliate marketing. It entails creating a user-friendly design, producing quality content, optimizing for SEO, and ensuring mobile compatibility. A well-crafted website maximizes your chances of converting visitors into customers.

User-Friendly Design and Navigation

A clean and intuitive website design enhances user experience. Ensure that your visitors can easily find what they’re looking for and navigate your site seamlessly.

Quality Content Creation

Content is king. Regularly publish high-quality, informative, and engaging content to attract and retain your audience.

SEO for Affiliate Websites

Optimize your website for search engines. Research keywords, create SEO-friendly content, and build quality backlinks to improve your site’s ranking.

Mobile Optimization

In this mobile-driven age, your website must be mobile-friendly. Ensure that your site looks and functions well on smartphones and tablets.

6. Leveraging Social Media and Email Marketing

Social media and email marketing are essential for affiliate marketing. Social media, email marketing, and integration are key to optimum effect. Use these tools to expand your affiliate marketing. Here’s how you can follow in their footsteps.

Harnessing the Influence of Social Media

Use social media platforms to engage with your audience, share content, and promote affiliate products. Create a content calendar and post consistently.

The Art of Email Marketing

Build an email list and send newsletters that provide value to your subscribers. Incorporate affiliate product recommendations tastefully.

Integrating Social Media and Email

Cross-promote your email campaigns on social media and vice versa. This integrated approach can yield impressive results.

Measuring Success

Track your social media and email marketing metrics. Analyze open rates, click-through rates, and conversions to refine your strategies.

7. Content Creation and SEO Strategies

Content creation and SEO strategies are the lifeline of affiliate marketing. Craft engaging content, conduct keyword research, employ on-page and off-page SEO techniques, and promote your content effectively. These strategies ensure visibility and conversions. Let’s explore how to create and optimize it for success.

Crafting Engaging Content

Create content that resonates with your audience. Address their pain points and offer solutions through engaging and compelling storytelling.

Keyword Research and Utilization

Keyword research helps you understand what your target audience is searching for. Use this knowledge to optimize your content for search engines.

On-Page and Off-Page SEO

Implement on-page SEO techniques like meta tags, headers, and keyword usage. For off-page SEO, focus on building backlinks from authoritative websites.

Content Promotion

Share your content on various platforms, from social media to online forums. The more people see your content, the more chances you have to earn commissions.

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8. Monetizing Your Affiliate Marketing Business

Monetizing your affiliate marketing business is the ultimate goal. Diversify income streams by promoting various affiliate programs within your niche. As your business scales, adhere to ethical standards, and be prepared for challenges along the way.

Diversifying Income Streams

Relying on a single affiliate program can be risky. Diversify your income sources by promoting products from multiple programs within your niche.

Scaling Your Business

As your affiliate marketing business grows, consider hiring a team or outsourcing tasks to scale your operations. This might include content creation or social media management.

Adhering to Ethical Standards

Maintain transparency with your audience. Disclose your affiliate relationships, and only promote products or services you genuinely believe in.

Preparing for Challenges

Affiliate marketing isn’t without its hurdles. Be prepared for fluctuations in income and algorithm changes on platforms like Google and social media. Adapt and keep learning.

Conclusion

In summary, our journey through affiliate marketing unveils the strategies of industry influencers. Now, it’s time for you to take action. The insights shared in this post, from choosing the right programs to mastering content creation and scaling your business, provide you with the tools to unlock your potential in affiliate marketing. Remember, this dynamic field thrives on dedication and adaptability. As you navigate this world, expect challenges, but stay resilient, transparent, and focused on your audience’s needs. With these insider tips, you’re well on your way to massive success in affiliate marketing.

FAQs

1. What is affiliate marketing?

Affiliate marketing is a performance-based marketing strategy where businesses reward affiliates for driving traffic or sales to their products or services.

2. How do I choose the right affiliate program?

To choose the right affiliate program, identify your niche, research programs, evaluate commission structures, and examine affiliate policies.

3. Why is content creation important in affiliate marketing?

Content creation is vital in affiliate marketing because it helps you engage with your audience, address their pain points, and promote affiliate products effectively.

4. How can I diversify my income in affiliate marketing?

You can diversify your income by promoting products from multiple affiliate programs within your niche.

5. What challenges should I be prepared for in affiliate marketing?

Challenges in affiliate marketing may include income fluctuations and algorithm changes on platforms like Google and social media. Adaptation and continuous learning are key.

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Affiliate Disclaimer :

This article Contain may be affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission at NO ADDITIONAL cost to you if you decide to purchase something. While we receive affiliate compensation for reviews / promotions on this article, we always offer honest opinions, users experiences and real views related to the product or service itself. Our goal is to help readers make the best purchasing decisions, however, the testimonies and opinions expressed are ours only. As always you should do your own thoughts to verify any claims, results and stats before making any kind of purchase. Clicking links or purchasing products recommended in this article may generate income for this product from affiliate commissions and you should assume we are compensated for any purchases you make. We review products and services you might find interesting. If you purchase them, we might get a share of the commission from the sale from our partners. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended.

Source : Affiliate Marketing Unleashed: Top Influencers Share Their Insider Tips for Massive Success!

Thanks for reading my article on “Affiliate Marketing Unleashed: Top Influencers Share Their Insider Tips for Massive Success!“, hope it will help!

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Choosing the Right Study Materials: A Student's Handbook

tudying effectively is a crucial component of academic success, and the choice of study materials plays a significant role in this process. The right study materials can make learning more efficient, while the wrong ones can lead to confusion and frustration. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of selecting the right study materials, from textbooks to online resources, and provide guidance on how to discern reliable sources, utilize study guides effectively, and adapt your materials to your learning style and needs.

1. The Role of Study Materials:

Study materials are the tools that students use to understand and master the subjects they're studying. These materials can include textbooks, lecture notes, online resources, study guides, and more. The right materials provide clarity and structure, helping students grasp complex concepts and reinforce their learning.

2. Choosing the Right Textbooks:

Textbooks are often a primary source of study material in many academic disciplines. Here are some tips for selecting the right textbooks:

Read Reviews: Look for reviews or recommendations from professors and students who have used the same textbook. Their insights can be valuable in making an informed choice.

Check Editions: Ensure that you have the correct edition of the textbook. Older editions may lack updated information and can cause confusion.

Consider Your Learning Style: Different textbooks have different writing styles. Some are more concise and others more detailed. Choose a style that aligns with your learning preferences.

3. Online Resources:

The internet offers a vast array of resources that can complement your study materials. When using online resources:

Check Credibility: Ensure that the websites you use are reputable and the information is accurate. Look for government sites, educational institutions, and established publications.

Balance Resources: Don't rely solely on online materials. Use them as supplements to your primary study materials.

Be Mindful of Distractions: The internet can be a double-edged sword. While it offers valuable resources, it can also be a source of distractions. Practice discipline when using online study materials.

4. Study Guides:

Study guides, often provided by professors or available in bookstores, can be excellent companions to your primary materials. Here's how to use them effectively:

Outline Your Curriculum: Study guides typically align with your course curriculum. Use them to organize your study plan and ensure you cover all essential topics.

Practice Questions: Many study guides include practice questions and quizzes. These can be instrumental in testing your knowledge and preparing for exams.

Adapt to Your Learning Style: Study guides can be versatile. Adapt their use to your learning style, whether that's summarizing key points, creating flashcards, or making annotations.

5. Adapt to Your Learning Style:

One of the most critical aspects of selecting the right study materials is to align them with your individual learning style. Everyone learns differently, and understanding how you learn best can significantly impact your study material choices. Consider the following learning styles:

Visual Learners: Visual learners benefit from diagrams, charts, and infographics. They should seek materials that include visual aids.

Auditory Learners: Auditory learners learn best through listening. They might benefit from recorded lectures or podcasts.

Read-Write Learners: These learners prefer written materials. Textbooks and note-taking are valuable for them.

Kinesthetic Learners: Kinesthetic learners learn best through hands-on activities. They should engage in practical applications of their studies whenever possible.

Selecting the right study materials and adapting them to your learning style is a continuous process. As you progress through your academic journey, you'll refine your study material choices to align with your evolving needs and preferences. Remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach, so explore and experiment with different resources until you find what works best for you. The ability to select and utilize the right study materials is a crucial skill for any student aiming for academic success.

[nalandawellness1]

Reiki Master Course Online – Unlock Your Healing Power from Home

In recent years, energy healing has gained increasing recognition for its potential to support physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Among the various modalities, Reiki stands out for its gentle, non-invasive approach to restoring balance. For those looking to deepen their practice or begin a journey into energy healing, a Reiki Master Course Online offers a flexible and accessible pathway.

What is Reiki and Why Is It So Popular?

Originating in Japan, Reiki is a form of energy healing where practitioners channel universal life force energy through their hands. It’s often used to support stress reduction, relaxation, and holistic well-being. Today, many individuals are turning to healing courses like Reiki to find inner calm, manage emotional challenges, and complement traditional healthcare.

The rising interest in alternative wellness has made Reiki Online Course options more in demand than ever. With the convenience of online platforms, students can now learn Reiki from the comfort of home while maintaining their daily responsibilities.

What to Expect from a Reiki Master Course Online

A typical Reiki Master Course Online builds upon foundational levels (Reiki I and II) and equips learners with advanced techniques, including:

Master-level attunements

Use of sacred symbols

Techniques for distant healing

Guidance on teaching and attuning others

Deepening intuitive abilities

These programs often include video lectures, guided practice sessions, downloadable manuals, and access to communities of fellow practitioners.

Real Stories from Reiki Learners

“I was skeptical at first, but taking the Reiki Master Course Online opened doors I didn’t know existed. I not only healed old emotional wounds but also felt empowered to help others.” — Ananya S., Pune

“Learning Reiki online fit perfectly into my busy schedule. The course was easy to follow, and the attunements were surprisingly powerful even from a distance.” — Ravi M., Bangalore

Benefits of Learning Reiki Online

Choosing a Reiki Online Course over traditional in-person training doesn’t mean compromising quality. In fact, online programs often offer:

Self-paced learning – Complete lessons at your convenience

Global access – Learn from masters across the world

Lifetime resources – Revisit materials whenever needed

Safe learning environment – Especially relevant for those still cautious about in-person contact

Additionally, many courses now include live support, peer interaction, and ongoing mentorship, bridging the gap between physical and virtual learning.

Common Questions About Online Reiki Training

Is an online Reiki certificate valid?

Yes. Most reputable programs provide certification that is recognized internationally. Ensure the course is led by a certified Reiki Master.

Do distance attunements really work?

Absolutely. Energy is not limited by physical space. Many students report powerful experiences during remote attunements.

Can I start healing others after completing a Reiki Master Course Online?

Yes. Upon completion, you are typically certified to practice Reiki professionally and even teach others, depending on the course level.

Things to Consider Before Enrolling

While there are many healing courses available, not all are created equal. Look for courses that:

Are taught by experienced Reiki Masters

Offer authentic attunements

Provide structured and comprehensive content

Include community or instructor support

Have clear certification standards

Final Thoughts

Exploring a Reiki Master Course Online could be a transformative step toward personal healing and helping others. As the interest in holistic wellness grows, more individuals are embracing Reiki Online Courses to bring balance, purpose, and peace into their lives. If you’re seeking a practical, accessible, and deeply enriching path, Reiki might just be the key.

[pcrtisuyog]

Online vs. Offline Digital Marketing Course: Which One Suits You Best? 

In today’s fast-paced digital world, mastering digital marketing has become essential for both professionals and businesses. Whether you're a student eager to start your career or a business owner looking to enhance your brand, taking a digital marketing course can open up endless opportunities. But with the rise of online learning platforms, it raises an important question: should you choose an online digital marketing course or stick with a traditional offline digital marketing course? Both options have their advantages, and ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences, learning style, and goals.

Let’s dive into the key differences between online and offline digital marketing courses and help you decide which one suits you best.

1. Flexibility and Convenience: Online Courses Take the Lead

One of the main benefits of an online digital marketing course is flexibility. You can access course materials anytime and anywhere, whether you're at home, in a coffee shop, or travelling. This is a huge advantage if you're someone who has a busy schedule or prefers to learn at their own pace.

Learn at your own pace: With online courses, you can study at a pace that works best for you, revisiting lessons as needed.

No geographical limitations: You're not restricted to a specific location. You can join classes from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection.

Convenience: You don't need to commute to a physical classroom. This saves both time and money, making it easier for students and professionals alike.

However, offline digital marketing courses are more structured and typically follow a set schedule. If you're someone who needs routine and prefers a more traditional classroom setting, this might be the better option for you.

2. Interaction and Networking: Offline Courses Provide More Face-to-Face Opportunities

While online courses offer flexibility, offline digital marketing courses shine when it comes to direct interaction with instructors and peers. In a physical classroom setting, you can ask questions in real-time, participate in group discussions, and network with other students or professionals in your field.

Immediate feedback: In an offline course, you can get instant responses from instructors and peers, making it easier to clarify doubts and gain deeper insights.

Networking opportunities: Being physically present in a classroom allows you to connect with others in the industry, exchange ideas, and even collaborate on projects.

Hands-on experience: Many offline courses offer practical training through workshops or live case studies, which can be highly beneficial for those who learn by doing.

On the other hand, online courses often include discussion forums, live webinars, and virtual communities, but the personal touch may be limited. Some people might miss the social interaction that comes with attending an offline course.

3. Course Content and Quality: Both Have Their Merits

Both online and offline digital marketing courses offer high-quality content, but the delivery and format differ. Online courses often benefit from being updated regularly to keep up with the fast-evolving nature of digital marketing. Many top platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses designed by industry experts and provide a wide range of topics from SEO to social media marketing.

Online courses: They often allow access to a variety of resources like video lectures, eBooks, quizzes, and recorded lessons. These resources give you the ability to review content as needed.

Offline courses: Traditional classroom settings offer structured lectures with immediate practical demonstrations. You may also receive in-person guidance from experienced instructors who can tailor the teaching to your needs.

Choosing the right course is crucial for success. Whether it’s an online or offline course, make sure it’s comprehensive and aligns with your learning goals.

4. Cost and Affordability: Online Courses Win This Round

When it comes to cost, online courses are usually much more affordable compared to offline courses. Many online platforms offer free introductory courses, and even paid ones tend to be lower in price, making them accessible to a larger audience.

Lower tuition fees: Online courses typically don’t have the overhead costs of maintaining physical classrooms or hiring full-time faculty, which keeps the fees lower.

Free resources: There are many free resources available online, allowing you to get started without making a financial commitment.

While offline courses may offer scholarships or financial aid, they generally require a larger investment due to their physical space, materials, and instructors’ salaries.

5. Personalization and Learning Pace: Online Courses Offer More Customization

If you're someone who likes to tailor your learning experience, online courses provide more options for customisation. With a digital marketing course online, you can choose the subjects that interest you most, skip topics you're already familiar with, and even revisit challenging lessons as many times as needed.

Personalised learning: Many online platforms allow you to select the modules that best suit your career goals and interests.

Self-paced learning: You have the ability to learn at your own pace, which is ideal if you need more time with complex topics.

Offline courses, on the other hand, follow a fixed curriculum that may not cater to everyone’s individual needs. However, they can offer more structured support and direct instructor guidance.

Which One Suits You Best?

Ultimately, your decision should come down to your personal learning style, goals, and lifestyle.

If you value flexibility, self-paced learning, and a lower cost, then an online digital marketing course is the way to go.

If you prefer structured learning, enjoy in-person interaction, and networking opportunities, an offline course may be better suited for you.

Both options have their strengths, so think about what aligns best with your priorities. No matter which path you choose, the most important thing is your commitment to learning and applying the skills you gain.

In the end, whether online or offline, a digital marketing course can be the first step towards unlocking a successful career in this fast-growing field.

[isabelwcna]

Leading CNA Online Schools: Your Guide to Earning a Nursing Assistant Certificate from Home

Top CNA​ online Schools:​ Your guide to Earning a Nursing Assistant Certificate from Home

Earning a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certificate has become increasingly accessible with the rise of online education. For those interested in a ‌rewarding career in healthcare but require flexibility due to personal or work commitments, attending a CNA online school might be ⁤the perfect ⁣solution.In this‌ complete guide, we ⁢will explore the top CNA online schools, the benefits of online learning, practical tips for success, adn much more.

Why Choose‍ Online CNA Programs?

Online CNA⁢ programs offer numerous benefits:

Flexibility: Learn at your own pace and fit your studies into your schedule.

Cost-effective: Save ⁤on commuting and ‍housing expenses.

Accessibility: Access ⁤quality education from anywhere with⁤ an internet connection.

Personalized Learning: ⁣ Engage with materials that suit ‌your learning ⁢style.

Top CNA Online Schools

Here’s a list of highly regarded CNA ​online schools offering robust programs:

School Name

Course Length

Accreditation

Average Cost

Southern New⁤ Hampshire University

8 weeks

CCNE

$1,200

Penn Foster High School

5 months

DEAC

$800

Walden University

6 to ⁤12 weeks

CCNE

$1,500

Columbia Southern University

4 months

ACEN

$1,000

Ashworth College

6 months

DEAC

$700

Benefits of Online CNA certification

1. Convenience and Flexibility

Online courses⁢ allow ‍you to design your study schedule.This flexibility⁢ is perfect for ‍those who are working, have⁢ family responsibilities, or are managing other commitments.

2. Comprehensive Curriculum

Most online CNA programs‍ provide a well-structured curriculum that covers essential topics such as basic nursing skills, patient care, anatomy, and medical terminology. ‌Additionally, many ​programs include required hands-on clinical training ⁢at​ local healthcare facilities.

3. Networking Opportunities

Enrolling‍ in an online CNA program can also provide ⁤networking opportunities with other aspiring nurses and professionals, ⁢allowing you to foster connections‍ that might‍ potentially be beneficial for your career.

Practical Tips‌ for Success in Online CNA Programs

To get the most out of your online CNA program, ‌consider the following tips:

Establish⁣ a Routine: Set a consistent schedule for studying and stick ⁤to it.

Stay organized: Use planners or digital tools to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and exams.

Engage actively: ⁢ Participate in online discussions and connect with your instructors and ⁢classmates to enhance your‌ learning experience.

seek​ Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out for help or clarification on topics that are challenging; utilize student support services available through your school.

Case‍ Studies: Success stories from CNA Online Programs

Many students have transformed their careers through online CNA programs. Here are a few inspiring stories:

Maria’s journey

Maria, a single mother, needed ‍a career that ‍offered flexibility while providing for her family. ⁤After completing her CNA online program in⁢ just⁣ six weeks, she quickly found a job at a local healthcare facility. Maria credits​ her success to ​the convenience of the online coursework and the supportive instructors who provided guidance throughout ⁤her studies.

John’s Career Switch

After years in retail, John decided to change careers ‌to pursue his passion for healthcare. Enrolling in an‌ online CNA program ⁢allowed him to maintain his job while‌ studying. Within‌ months of earning his ⁤certification, he secured a position as a nursing assistant and has since moved up to a patient care technician.

First-Hand Experience in Online CNA Programs

Current students and ‍graduates of online CNA ⁢programs frequently enough share their testimonials. Here’s what some have said:

Rachel, Recent Graduate

“I never imagined I could earn my CNA certificate from home! My ⁢online program was flexible and comprehensive, and‌ I felt supported every step of the way.”

Michael, Current Student

“Online learning can⁤ be challenging, but with the right resources and​ a good study ⁤plan, it’s incredibly rewarding. I love ⁣being able ‍to manage my ​studies alongside my current⁣ job.”

Conclusion

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant through online education offers a viable pathway to a fulfilling career in healthcare.With a variety of reputable schools offering adaptable programs,you can achieve your CNA certification from the comfort of your ⁢own home. Take the ‍time to research the best online CNA schools that align with your ‍educational and career goals. With determination and the right resources, you can embark‍ on a accomplished journey ​in nursing.

https://coursescna.com/leading-cna-online-schools-your-guide-to-earning-a-nursing-assistant-certificate-from-home/

[stephleb]

Open Your Future: The Ultimate Guide to CNA Classes in Los Angeles

unlock Your Future: The ultimate guide to CNA Classes ‌in ⁤los Angeles

unlock Your Future: The ​Ultimate Guide ⁣to⁤ CNA Classes in Los Angeles

If you’re considering⁣ a rewarding career in healthcare, becoming a Certified ⁤Nursing Assistant (CNA) might be your⁣ ideal first step. Los Angeles, a city known for ‌its diverse population and extensive healthcare facilities, offers various⁤ opportunities for aspiring CNAs. ‌This comprehensive guide will walk you through⁢ everything you need ​to know ⁢about CNA ​classes in Los Angeles, including how⁣ to choose​ the right program, the benefits of enrolling, practical tips, and more.

What⁢ is⁣ a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) plays a crucial role in⁤ the healthcare system, ​providing essential support to patients and nurses. CNAs perform various tasks, including:

Assisting patients ⁣with daily living ⁤activities

Monitoring vital signs

Changing ⁢bedding and helping with hygiene

Communicating patient needs to nursing staff

With the growing‍ demand for healthcare services, the need for ‌CNAs ⁢is⁣ expected to increase, making ‍it a stable career choice.

Why Choose CNA Classes in Los ​Angeles?

Los Angeles ​is home to a myriad of ⁤healthcare⁣ facilities, including‌ hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living communities. Several reasons make​ LA an excellent place to pursue your CNA training:

Variety of Programs: Numerous accredited schools and ‍institutions offer CNA courses, ‌giving‌ you ‌ample options.

Hands-On Training: ⁢ Many programs include ⁢practical experience in​ clinical settings,ensuring ⁢you gain valuable skills.

Career Opportunities: Given the size​ of the healthcare sector in LA, job​ placement rates ‌for⁣ CNAs tend to be higher.

Finding the Right​ CNA Program in Los Angeles

When searching for CNA classes‌ in Los⁤ Angeles, ⁤consider the following factors:

Accreditation: Ensure the ​program is accredited by the California Department of Public ​Health.

Location: ‌ choose a program that⁣ is conveniently ⁢located ⁤to reduce commute time.

Cost: ‌ Compare tuition fees and inquire‌ about ‍financial‌ aid‍ options.

Reviews: Look for testimonials or reviews from former ​students to gauge ‍program quality.

CNA ‌Class‌ Overview and ‍Requirements

Most CNA programs⁤ in Los Angeles follow similar structures. Here’s a⁤ typical overview of what to‍ expect:

Duration

Classroom Hours

Clinical⁣ Hours

Cost

4-12 weeks

60-80 hours

100-160 hours

$800 ‍- $2000

Most programs require⁤ a‌ high school diploma or GED. Additionally,‍ you ⁢may need⁣ to pass a background​ check and a ⁢physical exam before​ enrolling.

Benefits‍ of Becoming a CNA

Choosing a career as a CNA has many benefits, including:

Job Security: The healthcare⁤ industry continues‍ to grow, leading to ‍a constant demand for CNAs.

Flexible Schedules: Many healthcare facilities offer various shifts, allowing for flexible work schedules.

Opportunities for Advancement: Experience as a CNA can⁣ lead to further opportunities in nursing or healthcare management.

Practical ⁢Tips for Success in CNA Classes

to excel in ​your CNA⁢ training, consider these⁢ practical⁤ tips:

Stay Organized: Keep track of your assignments,⁢ clinical ‌hours, and study⁣ materials.

Engage in Class: Ask questions and participate in ⁢discussions to enhance your understanding.

Practice Skills: Use study groups to practice hands-on skills with peers.

First-Hand Experience: A former CNA’s Journey

meet‌ Sarah, a former⁢ CNA ‍who transitioned to ‍nursing after⁤ completing‌ her⁢ training in Los Angeles.Sarah shares,​ “Becoming ‌a CNA was one of⁤ the best decisions I ever ⁣made. The ⁣hands-on experience helped me find ‌my passion for caring for ‍others while ​providing me with the foundation to ​advance my career in ⁣nursing.”

Where to Enroll‌ in CNA ⁣Classes in Los Angeles

Here are some of ⁣the‍ top colleges and institutions offering ‌CNA programs in Los Angeles:

Institution

Program Length

Contact

Los Angeles College of Nursing⁤ & Allied Health

8 weeks

(213) 555-1234

American ⁣Career College

10 ⁣weeks

(310) ‍555-5678

west Coast University

12 weeks

(323) 555-9012

Conclusion

Embarking⁣ on the‍ journey to⁤ become a Certified‍ Nursing Assistant in Los ‍Angeles is an excellent opportunity to unlock‌ a fulfilling future in the healthcare sector.⁢ With various programs available, strong job prospects, and​ the ability to make a difference in people’s lives, now is‍ the perfect time to‍ take that first ⁤step. Remember to weigh your options carefully, ⁤choose an accredited program, and stay committed to your studies. With dedication and passion, you’ll be well ‍on your way to⁢ a ‌successful career as a CNA.

https://cnatrainingcentral.com/open-your-future-the-ultimate-guide-to-cna-classes-in-los-angeles/

[paramedical12]

Dialysis Technician Course: Career Path, Benefits, and Fee Insights in Mumbai

The field of healthcare continues to evolve, not just in terms of advanced treatment methods, but also in the need for trained support staff. One such essential healthcare professional is the dialysis technician—a skilled expert who helps patients with kidney failure undergo life-saving dialysis treatment.

If you're looking for a meaningful, stable, and rewarding career, enrolling in a Dialysis Technician Course might be the right step. In this blog, we’ll explore not just the basics of the course, but also give you insights into emerging trends, patient handling skills, the impact of technology in dialysis, and detailed information about dialysis technician course fees in Mumbai.

What Does a Dialysis Technician Do?

Before diving into course details, it's crucial to understand what a dialysis technician actually does.

A dialysis technician is responsible for:

Preparing patients for dialysis treatment

Operating dialysis machines

Monitoring vital signs during the procedure

Managing emergency situations

Ensuring sterilization and cleanliness of equipment

Supporting emotional well-being of patients undergoing long-term dialysis

These technicians work under the supervision of nephrologists or renal nurses and play a critical role in maintaining the patient’s health during the treatment.

The Growing Need for Dialysis Professionals in India

India is witnessing a sharp increase in chronic kidney disease (CKD) cases, largely due to diabetes, hypertension, and sedentary lifestyles. According to reports, over 2 lakh people require dialysis in India every year. This has created a huge demand for skilled dialysis technicians in urban and rural hospitals alike.

Especially in metros like Mumbai, where top hospitals and specialty kidney care centers are expanding, trained professionals are needed in both government and private healthcare setups.

Key Features of the Dialysis Technician Course

Unlike other medical courses that may take years to complete, a dialysis technician program is structured to be time-efficient and job-oriented.

General Features:

Duration: 6 months to 3 years (depending on course type)

Qualification: Minimum 10+2 pass, science background preferred

Study Mode: Full-time, part-time, and online options available

Includes theory + practical clinical training

Placement assistance often included

Course Curriculum Breakdown

While each institute may offer a slightly varied syllabus, here are the major topics usually covered:

Theory Modules:

Human Anatomy & Physiology (focus on kidneys)

Basics of Nephrology

Introduction to Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis

Dialysis Equipment & Water Treatment Systems

Vascular Access Management

Sterilization Techniques

Infection Control & Safety

Patient Communication Skills

Practical Learning:

Operating dialysis machines

Handling emergency dialysis scenarios

Pre-dialysis and post-dialysis patient care

Performing mock dialysis procedures

Exposure to real-time patient care in hospital internships

This mix of theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice ensures you are job-ready upon course completion.

Types of Courses Available

Based on your academic background and time availability, you can choose from the following formats:

Certificate Course in Dialysis Technology

Duration: 6 to 12 months

Best for quick career entry

Focuses on core operational skills

Diploma in Dialysis Technician

Duration: 1 to 2 years

More in-depth than certificate courses

Includes hospital-based practical training

Bachelor’s Degree in Dialysis Technology (B.Sc. / B.Voc)

Duration: 3 years

Comprehensive academic + clinical training

Opens doors for advanced roles and international jobs

Soft Skills Every Dialysis Technician Needs

While technical know-how is essential, soft skills play an equally critical role in this job. Patients undergoing dialysis often deal with mental fatigue, stress, and emotional trauma. As a dialysis technician, you must:

Show compassion and patience

Be an excellent communicator

Maintain emotional stability

Pay attention to details

Follow safety protocols

Be physically fit and alert during long procedures

These traits not only help build trust with patients but also contribute to a calm and professional dialysis environment.

Latest Technology Trends in Dialysis

Modern dialysis is no longer a simple machine-and-patient process. With tech advancements, dialysis procedures are becoming safer, smarter, and more efficient.

Emerging Trends:

AI-Powered Dialysis Machines: These smart devices monitor patient vitals and adjust treatment settings automatically.

Portable Dialysis Units: Home dialysis is on the rise, creating new job roles for mobile dialysis technicians.

Online Monitoring Systems: Allows real-time supervision and quick response to emergencies.

Virtual Patient Management: Some hospitals use telemedicine for pre-dialysis counseling and follow-ups.

As a technician, staying updated with these innovations gives you an edge in the job market.

Best Institutes Offering the Course in Mumbai

While many private institutions offer the course, it’s important to choose an institute that is recognized by the Health Sector Skill Council (HSSC) or affiliated to a reputed university.

Noteworthy Options:

Tata Memorial Centre, Parel

KEM Hospital Paramedical School

Mumbai Educational Trust (MET) Institute

Institute of Paramedical Sciences, Mumbai

Government recognized skill centers under NSDC

Before enrolling, visit the campus (if possible), speak to past students, and understand their placement success rates.

Job Opportunities and Career Scope

Dialysis technicians are in demand across a range of settings:

Employers Include:

Multi-specialty Hospitals

Kidney Care Centers

Government Health Missions

NGOs (like The Kidney Foundation)

Home Dialysis Support Services

Diagnostic Labs

As a fresher, you can earn between ₹12,000 to ₹20,000/month in Mumbai. With 2–5 years of experience and certifications, salaries can go up to ₹40,000/month or more in private hospitals.

International opportunities are also available, especially in the Gulf, UK, and Singapore, for technicians with a degree and fluency in English.

Higher Studies and Certifications

If you're aiming to specialize further, you can pursue:

Postgraduate Diploma in Nephrology Technology

Short-term Certifications in Peritoneal Dialysis

Advanced Clinical Dialysis Technician (ACDT) Courses

Emergency Dialysis Care Certification

Upskilling improves your job profile and makes you eligible for supervisory or trainer-level positions.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career as a dialysis technician is not just about machines and medical procedures—it’s about offering hope and extending life to patients who battle chronic kidney conditions every day.

With growing demand, excellent placement opportunities, and the availability of affordable dialysis technician course fees in Mumbai, now is a great time to pursue this path. It’s a career that blends compassion with clinical expertise and opens up doors to both national and international job markets.