#cmb engineering

[carnaud-12]

Driving Innovation in Engineering with CMbE

In today’s fast-evolving industrial landscape, precision, efficiency, and innovation have become the cornerstones of success. CMbE (CMB Engineering) stands at the forefront, offering cutting-edge engineering solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of industries worldwide. With a legacy of excellence and a forward-thinking approach, CMbE continues to redefine industry standards, empowering businesses to achieve unparalleled growth.

Who is CMbE?

CMbE specializes in providing advanced engineering systems tailored for modern manufacturing and industrial processes. From state-of-the-art can-making machinery to precision-engineered components, CMbE is synonymous with reliability and innovation. Its robust solutions cater to a wide range of industries, ensuring every project benefits from meticulous attention to detail and top-notch technology.

What Sets CMbE Apart?

Innovative Technology: CMbE integrates cutting-edge technology into its systems, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and durability in every solution.

Customizable Solutions: Understanding that every business is unique, CMbE offers tailor-made engineering systems to suit specific requirements.

Sustainability: CMbE emphasizes eco-friendly practices, designing systems that optimize resource use and minimize waste, contributing to a greener future.

Global Reach: With a presence across multiple continents, CMbE has established itself as a trusted partner for companies worldwide.

CMbE’s Key Offerings

Can-Making Machinery: CMbE delivers world-class machinery, including bodymakers, trimming machines, and diesets, to ensure efficient and high-quality production of cans.

Engineering Solutions: Its team of experts collaborates with businesses to design systems that enhance productivity while reducing operational costs.

After-Sales Support: CMbE provides exceptional customer support, including maintenance and upgrades, ensuring the longevity and reliability of its products.

Why Choose CMbE?

Industries that choose CMbE benefit from:

Enhanced operational efficiency through advanced automation.

Reduced downtime and increased productivity.

Sustainable practices that align with global environmental goals.

Conclusion

CMbE is more than just an engineering company; it is a partner in progress. By combining expertise, innovation, and a commitment to quality, CMbE helps businesses across the globe achieve their goals. If you’re looking to transform your manufacturing operations or enhance industrial processes, CMbE is the ideal choice.

[the-whatcherof-89]

Commission for @pixlemonade

Grian “Big Boss” Xelqua Aka The Legendary Poultry Man.

CR 17 N Medium Humanoid Strix

XP 102,400 (if used as npc for encounter)Strix Cleric 10 Evangelist 7

Neutral Medium humanoid, Strix Init +2; Senses Perception +29

AC 31, touch 13, flat-footed 29 (+2 Dex, +10 Armor, +4 Shield, +1 Intuition, +4 Natural) hp 115 (16d8+34)

Fort +11, Ref +19, Will +12

Speed 60 ft. Flying, Land speed 30ft. Melee Returning shortspear+16/11/6 1D8+4 RangedRanged Spell+14, Returning shortspear+17/12/7 1D8+4

Racial Dayguard, Suspicious, Darkvision 60ft, Low light vision 60ft, Hatred, Fly speed 60ft, Land speed 30ft.

Traits Obsession(Buttons, etc), Spark of creation.

Class features Aura, Channel Energy 9D6, Domains Artifice, Air), Divine obedience,Skilled (Use magic device, Fly), Protective grace +2, Aligned class (Cleric), Divine boons (Strategic warrior, Sensibility of crafting), Creator’s touch, Material transformation, Gift of tongues(Ignan, Auran), Multitude of talents(+4 sacred bonus on untrained skills).

Spellcasting CL17 DC17 spells per day 

4/6+1/6+1/6+1/5+1/5+1/5+1/5+1/3+1/2+1/1+1

Str 12, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 24, Cha 10

Base Atk +12/7/2; CMB +13; CMD +25

Feats Brew potions, Deific obedience, Extend spell, Craft magic weapons and armors, Craft wondrous magic items, Empower spells, Quicken spells, Maximize spells, Master crafter.

Skills Appraise +5, Craft(Metal) +20, Craft(Stone) +14, Diplomacy +4, Fly +21, Heal +10, Knowledge (arcana, history, religion) +14, engineering +9 (nobility, the planes,) +5, Linguistics +5, Perception +19, Profession(architect) +19, (engineer)+14, Sense motive +14, Spellcraft +14, Use magic device +13.

Languages Common, Draconic, Strix, Ignan, Auran.

Combat gear Manual of understanding+3(used), Returning shortspear+3, Mithral catskin breastplate+4, Caster shield(greater), Amulet of natural armor+4, Dusty rose ion stone, Headband of aerial agility+6(Wis), Rainbow lenses, Eagle cape, Belt of goat strength, Rod of thunder and lighting, Robe of useful items, Arrow magnet, Band of the colorful(pride) flight (ring of feather falling+Ring of flying improved+Colored flight), 4 Potions of cure critical wounds, Cleric kit, MWK tools(stone mason), 105GP.

Spells per day 0- All. 1-Animate ropes, Bless, Command, Divine favor, Sanctuary, Shield of faith, Summon monster I 2-Wind wall, Bear’s endurance, Sonic boom, Cat’s grace, Summon monster 2, Aid, Make whole. 3-Gaseous form, Dispel magic, Summon monster 3, Remove blindness/deafness, Blindness/deafness, Remove curse, Protection from energy. 4-Airwalk, Summon minor planar ally, Summon monster 4, Divine power, Freedom of movement, Divination. 5-Fabricate, Flamestrike, Summon monster 5, Spell resistance, Truesight, Reanimate dead. 6-Major creation, Planar ally, Animate objects, Dispel magic major, Word of return, Blade wall, Mass bull strength. 7-Elemental body(air), Regeneration, Destruction, Resurrection. 8-Whirlwind, Planar ally major, Summon monster VIII. 9-Miracle, Prismatic sphere.

Mumbo Jumbo Aka Bumbo Baggins the Mustache Man.

CR 17 N Humanoid, Dwarf

XP 102,400 (if used as npc for encounter)Dwarf Wizard (Conjurer, Creation school)15 Lore master 2

Neutral Medium humanoid Init +2; Senses Perception +20

AC 22, touch 17, flat-footed 20 (+2 Dex, +5 Deflection, +5Mage armor) Hp 135 (17d6+51)

Fort +13, Ref +13, Will +17

Speed 20 ft. Melee Father’s forgehammer+11/6 1d8+31 RangedRanged Spell+10

Racial Speed 20ft, Defensive training, Unstoppable, Stone cunning, Craftsman, Industrious urbanite, Stability, Darkvision 60ft, Weapon familiarity.

Traits Spark of creation, Socially awkward.

Class features Summon familiar (archetype Valet), Arcane bond (Familiar Cat), Create gear, Creator’s will, Summoner’s charm, Scribe scroll, Specialization  school (Conjuration), Arcane discoveries: Arcane builder(wondrous magic items), Fast study, Golem constructor(Iron), Lore, Secret of health, Applicable knowledge(Forge ring).

Spellcasting CL17 DC18 spells per day 4/6/6/6/6/5/5/4/3/1

Str 12, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 26, Wis 14, Cha 8

Base Atk +8/3; CMB +9; CMD +21

Feats Brew potions, Extend spell, Skill focus (Knowledge Arcana), Alchemical affinity, Craft wondrous magic items, Craft magic armors and weapons, Maximize spell, Empower spell.

Skills Appraise +16, Craft(Metal) +28, Craft(Redstone) +28, Fly +10, Knowledge (Arcana +31, Dungeoneering +16, Engineering+28, Nature+16, Geography+16, History+16, Local+16, Nobility+11, Planes +16, Religion+11), Linguistics +2, Perception +10, Profession(engineer)+22, Perform(oratory) +3, Spellcraft +28, Use magic device +19.

Languages Common, Draconic, Dwarf, Giant, Terran, Orchis, Acquan.

Combat gear Headband of mental prowess+4(Int, Wis, Craft metal), Amulet of spell mastery, monocle of flawlessness, Father’s forge hammer, Engineer’s workgloves, Winged boots, Belt of giant strength+2, All tools vest, Traveler’s any tool, Handy haversack, Mallet of building, Clock of resistance+5, Ring of protection+5, Ring of crafting improved(Redstone), Artificer portable lab, Mumbo’s top hat(functions as a Cap of light and a Hedge wizard Conjurer’s cloak), Conduit rod, Scrolls(Planar binding greater, Anywhere but here, Expeditious constructions), Staff of conjuration, Blessed book, Potions(4 Cure Critical wounds, 2 Invisibility, 2 Blur), Wand of Summon monster II, Wizard kit, 15GP.

Spells known Mostly Conjuration spells Forbidden schools: Necromancy, Enchantment (around 45) 

Spells typically prepared 9-Portal. 8-Summon monster VIII, Labyrinth 7-Limited wish, Wondrous mansion, Clenched hand, Reflect spells. 6-Mass bull strength, Contingency, Chain lighting, Iron wall, Dispel magic greater. 5-Telekinesis, Teleportation, Summon monster V, Wall of stone, Cone of cold. 4-Elastic sphere, Summon monster IV, Dimensional door, Stoneskin, Black tentacles, Solid fog. 3-Haste, Shrink item, Fireball, Summon monster III, Dispel magic, Resist energy. 2-Make whole, Mirror images, Glitterdust, Summon swarm, Web, See invisibility. 1-Shrink person, Magic missile, Grease, Unseen servant, Mage armor, Shield.

0-All except forbidden schools.

Background Grian and Mumbo lived in a faraway land known for their hermit residents where they are renowned for their incredible talent for architecture and his incredibly complex contraptions respectively. Both of them where building some crazy structure and as always creating some cunning brain-teaser or practical joke to have a laugh while at it. Still, when one day they were about to make their usual pranks and almost detonated each other in the attempt, Grain and Mumbo heard a voice: “Your aid… needed… someone important… lost… will you aid us?” Thinking it was a prank from another Hermit known for his Scars and his fancy Top Hats they went along and accepted only to find themselves transformed and transported into a completely different world. Now they have a mission on hand: Retrieve a lost entity from far away that bestowed part of his powers upon them.

IMPORTANT: None of the images are mine they belong to the following artists in the link. I did this for no profit only for entertainment.

[thecreaturecodex]

Walrider

Image © deviantArt user NanFe, accessed at her gallery here

[Sponsored by @coldbloodassassin, and my last sponsored post! The walrider is yet another monster in the subgenre of "from a video game I've never played", and in this case never even heard of before being tasked with this: Outlast. It has a very complicated backstory, involving Nazi mad science and corrupt mental institutions, so I streamlined it a bit while retaining the original flavor.]

Walrider CR 18 CE Construct A faint blur appears, an outline of a human form moving through space. It moves with impossible fluidity, as if its joints were more a mental construct than a physical one. The outline lacks a lower jaw entirely, and the fingers are longer than those of a typical human

The walrider is a bizarre construct, a cloud of tiny nanomachines confined to a humanoid shape but able to take over the bodies of others. The first walrider was created in an attempt to create a nanotechnology lab out of the body of a human test subject. The process drove the victim insane in the process of completely disassembling them, and the walrider created possessed a thoroughly warped and thoroughly evil psyche. The walrider still possess an affinity for the mad, preferring to use them as hosts. Those whose perceptions of reality are distorted are even less likely to understand the nature of the walrider’s attacks, and are less likely to be believed if and when they can report them. The damage the walrider deals when scouring the mortal mind for information typically leaves their victim mentally broken.

The walrider can enter a victim not to possess them but merely to take them apart from the inside, and they enjoy using this power in the open as a show of strength. If they cannot possess a host, or if they are expelled through remove disease or a similar effect, they simply beat their enemies to death. They can control their own solidity as a matter of course, being strong enough to punch through concrete when they want to, and then being so diffuse that weapons pass right through them. The walrider is nearly invisible, and uses hit and run attacks in combination with their great stealth to wear enemies down if they are capable of fighting back.

Due to the highly unusual nature of their origin, the walrider may be a unique creature. If it is not, it is highly unlikely that they would cooperate with each other, instead viewing each other as competition. The walrider is a megalomaniac who views itself as divine, and is actively creating a cult of worshipers who view it as the next stage in human evolution. If this cult grows large enough, the walrider could become truly divine, or attract the attention of a competitor who is.

Walrider CR 18 XP 153,600 CE Medium construct Init +14; Senses darkvision 60 ft., Perception +18

Defense AC 27, touch 27, flat-footed 16 (+10 Dex, +1 dodge, +6 insight) hp 169(23d10+43) Fort +7, Ref +19, Will +15 Immune construct traits, critical hits, sneak attack, weapon damage Defensive Abilities evasion,mad insights,swarm-like, transparency; Weakness susceptible to mind-influencing effects, vulnerable to area of effect damage

Offense Speed 40 ft., fly 40 ft. (perfect) Melee 2 slams +33 (2d8+10) Special Attacks infest, possess

Statistics Str 30, Dex 30, Con -, Int 19, Wis 4, Cha 23 Base Atk +23; CMB +33; CMD 44 Feats Ability Focus (infest, possess),Alertness (B),Blind Fight,Combat Expertise,Combat Reflexes, Critical Focus (B), Dodge, Improved Critical (slam), Improved Initiative (B), Iron Will, Lightning Reflexes (B), Mobility, Power Attack (B), Spring Attack, Staggering Critical (B), Toughness, Whirlwind Attack Skills Bluff +23, Fly +35, Intimidate +23, Knowledge (engineering, local) +34, Perception +19, Sense Motive +19, Stealth +47; Racial Modifiers +11 Knowledge (all), +20 Stealth Languages Aklo, Androffan, Common, Undercommon SQ madness,many in one

Ecology Environment any Organization solitary or ride (1 plus 1 possessed host) Treasure standard

Special Abilities Infest (Ex) As a standard action, a walrider can infest a corporeal creature adjacent to it. If the creature fails a DC 25 Fortitude save, the walrider moves inside of its body. A walrider can either remain in the creature it infests harmlessly, as a riding possession spell, or it can start to disassemble its host from the inside, dealing 12d6 points of damage a round. A host reduced to 0 hit points while infested by a walrider is reduced to dust and destroyed (similar to disintegrate). A walrider infesting a host can be expelled by any effect that cures disease, with a disease save equal to this ability’s DC. If not expelled, the walrider can remain inside the host indefinitely. The save DC is Constitution-based and includes a +2 racial bonus. Madness (Ex) Walriders use their Charisma modifier on Will saves instead of their Wisdom modifier, and are immune to insanity and confusion effects. Only a miracle or wish can remove a walrideer's madness. If this occurs, the walrider gains 6 points of Wisdom and loses 6 points of Charisma. Mad Insight (Su) A walrider gains an insight bonus to Armor Class equal to its Charisma modifier. Many In One (Ex) A walrider absorbs the memories of intelligent creatures that it possesses. A walrider that has eaten one or more sapient creatures gains a number of bonus feats equal to its Charisma modifier (6 for the average specimen). It gains a racial bonus to all Knowledge checks equal to ½ its Hit Dice (+11 for the average specimen), and can make Knowledge checks untrained. Whenever it possesses a sapient creature, it may swap out one of its bonus feats and/or one of its languages for one known by the creature it has possessed. Possess (Su) A walrider can possess a living creature it has infested. Unless the creature succeeds a DC 25 Will save, the walrider takes control of its body, as per a greater possession spell with an indefinite duration. A creature that successfully saves is immune to that walrider’s possession for the next 24 hours. At any time while possessing a host, the walrider can attempt to scan its mind, as per a mind probe spell. This possession is taxing to a host; every day the host is possessed, it must succeed a DC 25 Will save or take 2d4 Wisdom drain. A creature that would be reduced to 0 Wisdom is instead reduced to 1 Wisdom and gains the moral insanity madness. The save DC is Constitution based, and includes a +2 racial bonus to the DC. Susceptible to Mind-Influencing Effects (Ex) Unlike most constructs, a walrider can be affected by mind-influencing effects. Swarm-like (Ex) A walrider is comprised of thousands of nanites. Although it is a Medium sized creature, it is immune to spells and effects that affect a single target, damage from physical weapons, critical hits and sneak attacks. A walrider can move through cracks and spaces small enough for a Fine creature. A walrider takes 150% damage from area of effect spells and effects. Transparent (Ex) A walrider is nearly invisible. Attacks made against it by creatures that need to see have a 50% miss chance, and the walrider gains a +20 racial bonus to Stealth checks. This is not dispelled by invisibility purge or see invisibility. Spells like faerie fire and glitterdust reduce the miss chance to 20%, but do not remove it completely.

[justicegundam82]

Hackmaster to PF1 Conversion: Boarfolk

Hello! Here is my latest conversion... a rather simple one, all things considered, this one coming from the Hackmaster tabletop games.

I should add that I got some ideas from the work of the Creature Codex blog, who converted the Pigfolk some time ago.

I hope you will enjoy my conversion, and as always, tell me if there is something I should improve.

BOARFOLK

Image (c) GreyRat48 on DeviantArt

This humanoid creature is tall and well-built, with the head of a wild boar and covered in hirsute, coarse fur.

BOARFOLK                       CR 2

XP 600

CG Medium Humanoid

Init +0; Senses low-light vision, scent; Perception +3

DEFENSE

AC 15, touch 10, flat-footed 15 (+4 natural, +1 shield)

hp 19 (3d8+6)

Fort +5, Ref +1, Will +1

Defensive Abilities ferocity

OFFENSE

Speed 40 ft.

Melee obsidian machete +5 (1d6+2 / 19-20; fragile) and bite -1 (1d4+1); or bite +4 (1d4+2)

Ranged sling +2 (1d4+2)

Special Attacks hatred (orcs)

STATISTICS

Str 15, Dex 10, Con 14, Int 15, Wis 11, Cha 8

Base Atk +2; CMB +4; CMD 14

Feats Power Attack, Weapon Focus (machete)

Skills Climb +6, Craft (weapons) +6, Knowledge (any one) +8, Perception +3, Profession (any one) +8, Survival +4

Languages Common, Orc

Special Qualities erudite

ECOLOGY

Environment temperate and cold forests

Organization solitary, pair, gang (3-10 plus 1 leader of level 2-4) or village (10-60 plus 1 lieutenant of level 2-4 every 20 individuals, 1 druid/shaman of level 4-6 and 1 chief of level 5-7)

Treasure standard (obsidian machete, sling with 20 bullets, buckler, other treasure)

SPECIAL ABILITIES

Erudite (Ex): A boarfolk can choose a single Knowledge skill to always be considered a class skill for him. Boarfolk usually choose Knowledge (engineering) or Knowledge (nature) for this ability.

Hatred (Ex): Boarfolk gain a +1 racial bonus on attack rolls against humanoid creatures of the orc subtype because of their special training against these hated foes.

Boarfolk are a surprisingly ancient race, rumored to be the original ancestry that orcs and pigfolk originated from. Unlike their brutish cousins, however, boarfolk have a rather sophisticated culture with intricate religious practices, and their cities are known for their remarkable innovations and efficiency. Most of them have a natural predilection for mathematics and physics. Boarfolk communities tend to be relatively small, living in simple but well-constructed villages hidden in deep forests, where they use trees for their shade and natural beauty.

Not ones to neglect their physical prowess either, boarfolk are trained in fighting from an early age, and are known for their skill in using their specially-forged obsidian weapons. They tend to be peaceful and avoid unnecessary violence, but their closeness to crueler and more belligerent orc subraces is a sore point for boarfolk - they regard orcs as degenerates, and pigfolk as abominations who offended their deities in ages past with some horrific sacrilege, and the hatred is very much mutual. The pigfolk's tendency for worshipping Great Old Ones lends credence to these rumors, but nothing definite is known. In any case, comparing boarfolk to pigfolk is a safe way to earn the boarfolk's scorn and irritation.

Boarfolk tend to revere gods of nature or Primal Spirits, and many of their rites revolve around trees. Most of their divine spellcasters are druids, but shamans are quite common as well. Arcane spellcasters are rather common as well, as a boarfolk's sharp mind is surprisingly apt for the study of such magic.

Boarfolk are rather large for Medium creatures, and they average about 7 feet in height, while weighing 300 pounds.

[soylent-crocodile]

Vizzerdrix (Monster)

(Vizzerdrix by Dave Dorman)

(Behold, a late Easter AND an April Fool's Day special, all wrapped up in one not-so-fluffy bunny! I wanted to capture the idea of a puzzlingly high-value creature with no special effects and not as much combat capability as its peers, so I went with a mad genius. There's also just a couple of tropes here that I tend to avoid- or lean on- if you can spot them. Enjoy!)

CR16 CE Large Aberration HD25

Vizzerdrix are savage beings created by a mad wizard, ravenous beasts who tear apart any who meet their path. It is generally accepted that the vizzerdrix were the last creation of said wizard before being torn apart by vizzerdrix. Unfortunately for the world, her creations bred true, and now vizzerdrix can be found leaving swathes of blood and death in their path. 

A vizzerdrix is a hybrid between a rabbit, a giant, and a piranha, creating a being with incredible intelligence, sharp claws, a craving for destruction and flesh, and big floppy rabbit ears. Vizzerdrix are among the most brilliant beings to exist, and use this to their advantage- they’re expert at evaluating threats, manipulating others, and devising cunning traps. Fortunately for a vizzerdrix’s enemies, they lack any particular abilities to put this brilliance to use, and without external help or tools, must fall back on ripping and tearing. This isn’t to say that a vizzerdrix has distaste for such combat- indeed, tearing other beings apart with their claws and incisors is the deepest pleasure a vizzerdrix can experience, and all their goals and conniving generally works to the end of getting a vizzerdrix a never-ending source of innocent victims to destroy. 

Vizzerdrix are obligate carnivores, only able to digest animal flesh. Despite this, they have a deep craving for root vegetables, which give them incredible indigestion and, occasionally, food poisoning and intense gastric distress. It is suspected that this was a failsafe created by their master and the reason to include rabbit parts, as vizzerdrix will do anything for proper digestive aids that allow them to comfortably eat their favorite food. 

This hulking, clawed beast has powerful human musculature, furless skin, and the head of an angry rabbit. Misc- CR16 CE Large Aberration HD25 Init:+8 Senses: Perception +27 Darkvision 60ft Stats- Str:28(+9) Dex:18(+4) Con:18(+4) Int:32(+11) Wis:9(-1) Cha:20(+5) BAB:+18/+13/+8/+3 Space:10ft Reach:10ft Defense- HP: AC:30(+4 Dexterity, +17 Deflection, -1 Size) Fort:+14 Ref:+12 Will:+17 CMD:39 Resist: Acid 20, Cold 20, Electricity 20, Fire 20 Immunity: Fear Special Defenses: DR5/Adamantine Offense- Bite +24(2d6+9), 2 Claw +25(1d8+9) CMB:+25 Speed:40ft Special Attacks: Rend (2 Claw, 2d8+14) Feats- Improved Initiative, Power Attack (-5/+10), Weapon Focus (Claw), Iron Will, Great Fortitude, Vital Strike, Combat Expertise, Improved Dirty Trick, Improved Disarm, Improved Trip, Greater Dirty Trick, Critical Focus Skills- Acrobatics +27, Climb +17, Escape Artist +32, Knowledge (Arcana, Dungeoneering, Engineering, Geography, Nature, Planes, Religion) +26, Knowledge (Local)* +29, Perception +27, Sense Motive +24, Spellcraft +39, Stealth +32, Survival +27, Swim +17, Use Magic Device +30 Spell-like Abilities- (Caster Level 20, Concentration +25) Dispel Magic /at-will Special Qualities- Ferocity Ecology- Environment- Forests, Swamps (Any) Languages- Common, Aklo, Abyssal, Draconic, Giant Organization- Solitary Treasure- None

[pathfinderunlocked]

Elite Biotrooper - CR10 Humanoid

A modern or post-apocalyptic elite soldier specialized in chemical warfare.

Artwork by IvanLaliashvili on DeviantArt.

This is conceptually a half-orc ranger, but I only gave it 4 class levels in ranger, and the rest of its abilities are unique, coming mostly from its equipment. Its other 10 hit dice are racial hit dice.

The equipment, while usable by players, isn't nearly as good for them as it is for the enemy, mostly due to the limited number of charges that only this creature can refill.

See also the CR7 Biotrooper, a lower-level version of this creature.

Elite Biotrooper - CR 10

Dressed in a hazmat suit and gas mask, this sturdy-looking person is holding a bulky gun with a large canister attached to the top of it.

XP 9,600 Unique half-orc urban ranger 4 N Medium humanoid (human, orc) Init +5 (+7 in favored community) Senses darkvision; Perception +21 (+23 in favored community)

DEFENSE

AC 27, touch 15, flat-footed 22 (+10 armor, +5 Dex, +2 natural) hp 145 (10d8+4d10+74) Fort +15, Ref +12, Will +8; +4 vs. poison Defensive Abilities orc ferocity Immune inhaled poison

OFFENSE

Speed 20 ft. Melee +1 rifle butt +15/+10/+5 (1d10+4) Ranged +1 toxic needle gun +18/+13/+8 (1d3+1/x3 plus disease) Special Attacks combat style (archery), favored enemy (vermin +2), toxic gas

Ranger Spells Prepared (CL 1st; concentration +4)     1st—delay poison

STATISTICS

Str 15, Dex 21, Con 18, Int 10, Wis 14, Cha 8 Base Atk +11; CMB +20; CMD 34 Feats Improved Iron Will, Iron Will, Point-Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Skill Focus (Perception), Technologist, Toughness, Weapon Focus (biotrooper gun) Skills Craft (alchemy) +10, Disable Device +7, Heal +9, Intimidate +1, Knowledge (engineering) +7, Knowledge (local) +8 (+10 in favored community), Perception +21 (+23 in favored community), Stealth +7 (+9 in favored community), Survival +6 (+8 in favored community); Racial Modifiers +2 Intimidate, +2 Knowledge (local) Languages Common, Orc SQ city-raised, favored community +2, hunter's bond (companions), poison use, track +2, trapfinding, wild empathy +3 Gear +1 biotrooper gun, +2 armored hazmat suit, +2 amulet of natural armor

EQUIPMENT ABILITIES

Armored Hazmat Suit An elite biotrooper wears an +2 armored hazmat suit which counts as +2 hide armor, but a biotrooper gains an extra +4 armor bonus to AC while wearing it. Additionally, any creature wearing this armored hazmat suit gains immunity to inhaled poisons and noxious gaseous effects (such as stinking cloud), and a +4 circumstance bonus on saving throws against all other poisons.

Biotrooper Gun An elite biotrooper carries a biotrooper gun which can be used for three forms of attack - a rifle butt melee attack, an infectious needle gun ranged attack, and a toxic gas cone attack. It can make any of the three forms of attack at any time. A biotrooper gun is considered an exotic weapon, which the biotrooper is proficient with.

A biotrooper gun is capable of holding 20 rounds of infectious needle gun ammunition and 5 rounds of toxic gas ammunition. A biotrooper can refill this ammunition once per day, usually first thing in the morning, by spending 1 hour crafting alchemical ammunition to insert in the weapon. The ammunition becomes inert and ruined if not immediately loaded into the gun, so storing up more ammunition than the gun can hold at a time is impossible.

For the purposes of enhancement bonuses, weapon focus, and other weapon-specific bonuses, a biotrooper gun is treated as a single weapon, with such bonuses applying to both melee and ranged attacks with it.

Infectious Needle Gun When used as an infectious needle gun as a ranged weapon, a biotrooper gun deals 1d3 piercing damage with a x3 critical multiplier, and has an 80 ft. range increment. It counts as a firearm, but cannot use ammunition designed for other firearms.

A creature that takes damage from an infectious needle gun is subject to the following disease:

Disease (Ex) Infectious Needle Gun—injury; save Fort DC 17; onset immediate; frequency 1/hour; effect 1d4 Con damage and 1 Cha damage and target is fatigued and skin turns green; cure 2 consecutive saves.

Rifle Butt When used as a rifle butt as a melee weapon, a biotrooper gun functions as a greatclub.

Toxic Gas As a standard action, an elite biotrooper gun can launch a 60-foot cone of poison gas. Targets within the area take 4d6 acid damage, and must make a DC 23 Fort save or be poisoned.  The save DC is Constitution-based, is based on the elite biotrooper's hit dice, and includes a +2 bonus.  The gas lingers for 1 round, remaining visible while it does so and affecting creatures that enter it (though no creature can suffer from a given Toxic Gas attack more than once).

A creature other than a biotrooper that uses a biotrooper gun's toxic gas attack has a 5% chance of exposing himself to the poison each time he fires it, unless he has the poison use class feature.

Poison (Ex) Toxic Gas—inhaled; save Fort DC 23; frequency 1/round for 6 rounds; effect 1d6 Con damage; cure 3 consecutive saves.

SPECIAL ABILITIES

Favored Community (Ex) An elite biotrooper has formed a bond with a specific community. While inside the limits of this community, it gains a +2 bonus on initiative checks and Knowledge (local), Perception, Stealth, and Survival skill checks. An elite biotrooper traveling through its favored community leaves no trail and cannot be tracked (although it may leave a trail if it so desires).

Favored Enemy (Ex) An elite biotrooper gains a +2 bonus on attack and damage rolls against one type of enemy chosen from the ranger's favored enemy list, as well as a +2 bonus on Bluff, Knowledge, Perception, Sense Motive, and Survival checks against creatures of the selected type. The example elite biotrooper's favored enemy is vermin.

Hunter's Bond (Ex) An elite biotrooper's bond with his allies allows him to spend a move action to grant half his favored enemy bonus against a single target of the appropriate type to all allies within 30 feet who can see or hear him.

Trapfinding (Ex) An elite biotrooper adds 1/2 its ranger level (typically +2) to Perception skill checks made to locate traps and to Disable Device skill checks. It can use Disable Device to disarm magic traps. These bonuses are already included in the statistics above.

Orc Ferocity (Ex) Once per day, when a half-orc is brought below 0 hit points but not killed, it can fight on for 1 more round as if disabled. At the end of its next turn, unless brought to above 0 hit points, it immediately falls unconscious and begins dying.

Poison Use (Ex) An elite biotrooper is trained in the use of poisons and does not risk poisoning itself when applying poison to a weapon.

[neiljohnsblog]

Exploring the Future of Efficiency and Comfort: Honda Jazz Hybrid

In the world of compact cars, where efficiency meets innovation, the Honda Jazz Hybrid stands out as a beacon of modern automotive engineering. Combining Honda's renowned reliability with hybrid technology, the Jazz Hybrid offers a compelling package for eco-conscious drivers who refuse to compromise on comfort and versatility.

Honda Jazz Hybrid Specifications

The heart of the Honda Jazz Hybrid lies in its advanced hybrid powertrain. Under the hood, you'll find a responsive 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine paired seamlessly with an electric motor, delivering a harmonious blend of power and efficiency. This setup not only enhances fuel economy but also reduces emissions, making the Jazz Hybrid a responsible choice for environmentally aware consumers.

Engine Specifications:

- Engine: 1.5-litre i-VTEC 4-cylinder

- Electric Motor: Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system

- Combined Output: Approximately 110 horsepower

The hybrid powertrain is complemented by Honda's innovative e: HEV technology, which intelligently manages the engine and electric motor for optimal efficiency in various driving conditions. This synergy ensures that whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Jazz Hybrid delivers a smooth and responsive performance.

User Experience: Driving the Honda Jazz Hybrid

Driving the Honda Jazz Hybrid is an experience that blends practicality with a touch of sophistication. The cabin welcomes you with a thoughtfully designed interior that maximizes space and comfort. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the Jazz Hybrid surprises with its roomy interior, offering ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers.

Interior Features:

- Magic Seats: Honda's versatile Magic Seats system allows for multiple configurations, enabling easy adaptation to accommodate various cargo shapes and sizes.

- Infotainment: The Jazz Hybrid boasts a modern infotainment system with a touchscreen display, offering connectivity options such as Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration.

The driving dynamics of the Jazz Hybrid are tuned to provide a balanced blend of agility and stability. Whether you're manoeuvring through narrow city streets or tackling curvy roads, accurate steering and quick handling provide a sense of assurance while driving. The regenerative braking system not only enhances efficiency but also contributes to a smooth braking experience, seamlessly transitioning between electric and friction braking.

Design and Technology

The Honda Jazz Hybrid's design ethos revolves around functionality and aerodynamic efficiency. Its sleek exterior lines not only enhance its visual appeal but also contribute to its fuel-saving capabilities. LED headlights and daytime running lights provide enhanced visibility, while the aerodynamically optimized body minimizes drag for improved efficiency.

Safety Features:

- Honda Sensing® Suite: Standard on most trims, Honda Sensing® includes features like Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM).

- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Assists in parking and reversing manoeuvres, providing multiple viewing angles for enhanced awareness.

Ownership and Sustainability

Owning a Honda Jazz Hybrid extends beyond the joy of driving. It demonstrates a dedication to promoting sustainability and ethical living practices. With its hybrid powertrain, the Jazz Hybrid helps reduce your carbon footprint without compromising on performance or convenience. Honda's reputation for reliability ensures peace of mind, backed by a strong warranty and comprehensive service network.

Fuel Efficiency: The Honda Jazz Hybrid boasts impressive fuel efficiency figures, making it an ideal choice for daily commuting and long-distance journeys alike. With its hybrid powertrain, expect to achieve excellent mileage and fewer stops at the pump.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Honda Jazz Hybrid stands as a testament to Honda's dedication to innovation and sustainability. It combines the practicality of a compact car with the efficiency of hybrid technology, offering a compelling choice for discerning drivers who prioritize both performance and environmental consciousness. Whether you're drawn to its fuel-saving capabilities, spacious interior, or advanced safety features, the Jazz Hybrid promises a driving experience that is as rewarding as it is responsible.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the Honda Jazz Hybrid remains a frontrunner in the realm of efficient and comfortable urban mobility. With its blend of cutting-edge technology and timeless Honda reliability, the Jazz Hybrid is poised to lead the charge towards a more sustainable future on the roads.

For those seeking a vehicle that not only meets but exceeds expectations, the Honda Jazz Hybrid emerges as a clear winner in the competitive landscape of hybrid compact cars. Embrace the future of efficient and comfortable driving with the Honda Jazz Hybrid — where innovation meets inspiration on every journey.

[terrors-and-tables]

As a way to give this blog some purpose, and give myself something to do, I’ve decided to start writing out my RPG musings in my spare time. I’ve been slowly working on a campaign setting for several years now, and it’s become a little creative space for me to hammer out a hypothetical kitchen sink to throw my fantasy ideas in. I’ll probably end up using it for a Pathfinder game (where I’ll finally get to use Spheres of Power/Might, and maybe even Guile), but I’ve thought about running it with an OSR game as well. Who knows, maybe I’ll run it over several different systems. Without further ado, here’s the first installment!

Post #1: The Ottoguard

This idea was created using Ultimate Engineering, the most recent (and final) Pathfinder product for Spheres of Might from Drop Dead Studios. I contributed a bit to the playtesting and had a great time, and its author spent two years fine tuning it, so if you're interested, go support them and take a look. At the time of writing, it should also be on the SoP wiki any day now.

In the core of the setting, the city of Scalmoor treats scientific advancement like its own fom of magic. They build marvelous contraptions of steel and glass, whether powered by tightly wound clockworks or by burning coal and spewing black smoke. In this city, the law is kept by those with the most money to build the biggest toys, and one such toy is the Ottoguard.

Standing at eight feet tall, an Ottoguard is a hollow sort of mechanical construct, but bears no magic or animating consciousness like a golem. Instead, a trained fighter pilots it, wearing it as a sort of incredibly heavy armor that carries itself. Ottoguards don’t do all of the policing, usually accompanied by a few regular guards who can do things like fit into buildings, move obstacles aside, bully civilians up close and personal, and so on and so forth.

Ottoguard CR 1 XP 400 Human Warrior 3 LN Medium Humanoid (Human) Init +2; Perception +5

Defense

AC 17; Touch 12; Flat-Footed 15; (+2 Dex, +5 Chainmail) 21 HP (3d10+6) Fort +5 Ref +3; Will +3

Offense

Speed 20ft. Space 5ft; Reach 5ft Melee Sap +4 (1d6+1 nonlethal) Ranged Light Crossbow +5 (1d8/19-20) Special Attacks Snag (Swift action, render target battered as melee touch attack)

Statistics

Str 13, Dex 15, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 14, Cha 8 Base Atk ; CMB ; CMD ( vs. trip) Feats Extra Combat Feat Skills Craft (Technology) +6, Intimidate +5, Perception +5, Sense Motive +5; Racial Modifiers Languages Common SQ Gear: Mwk Chainmail, Light Crossbow, Longsword, Large Crossbow, MwK Large Sap, Potion of CLW, 8 gold pieces, 13 silver pieces. Martial Tradition: Mechaguard* Martial Talents (2 talents from progression, 1 talent from feat)

Equipment Sphere: Bounty Hunter’s Tools Armor Training Tinker Sphere: Transportation Package Mechanical Arsenal Transportation Mastery Wrestling Sphere: (Constrictor Drawback) Hammerlock Clinch Strike

Those stats above are for if our unlucky Ottoguard pilot is caught… off-guard. They’re there to represent what’s inside the fantastic mech and what he’s trained to do in a fight, particularly specializing in nonlethal capture- even when fully kitted out he’s here to apprehend criminals, not brain them. The crossbows are just for emergencies. So let’s break down what he’s capable of as a third level warrior, namely his talents:

His Equipment Sphere talents are there solely for proficiencies, for the Sap and for medium/heavy armor. The Athletics Sphere lets him run pretty quick (five times his speed in medium armor, at a hundred feet per round)- he won’t be able to outrun most people, but he won’t fall too far behind either. Tinker is much more complex, opening up an entire subsystem, but the bulk of why it’s there is to build and maintain his precious Ottoguard, with Mechanical Arsenal allowing him to outfit it with custom-crafted plate-mail for free, and Transportation Mastery allowing him to make an immersive cockpit that responds to his movements with a complicated array of levers and pulleys. Wrestling is there so that he can tackle a criminal and, if needed, beat them unconscious. It’s alright though, because even if it’s scaled up to be sized for an ogre, a lead rod wrapped in leather will still deal nonlethal damage.

Mechanoid Statistics: 4th level Mechanoid N Large Construct Init +2; Perception +5

Defense AC 24; Touch ; Flat-Footed ; (+9 Full Plate, +1 Dex, -1 size, +5 NA) 27 HP (3d10+12) Fort +5; Ref +3; Will +3 Defensive Abilities ; Immune Construct Traits

Offense

Speed 20ft. Space 10ft; Reach 10ft Melee MwK Large Sap +8 (1d8+5, Nonlethal) Ranged MwK Large Light Crossbow +5 (2d6/19-2) Special Attacks Snag (Swift action, render target battered as melee touch attack)

Statistics

Str 20, Dex 14, Con --, Int 10, Wis 14, Cha 8 Base Atk +3; CMB +9; CMD 21 Feats -- Skills Perception +5, Sense Motive +5, Intimidate +5; Racial Modifiers SQ 6 Upgrades (Arms, Legs, Cover*, Focused Design (+2 Str), Immersive Cockpit, Armor Slot, Alternate Size) *Free upgrade Gear MwK Large Sap, MwK Light Crossbow,

The Ottoguard, while piloted, can benefit from its pilot’s skills, feats, saving throw bonuses, base attack bonuses, et cetera, while keeping its own physical ability scores, armor class, and better weaponry, while also having its own pool of hit points. The pilot isn’t totally sequestered, however, and some parts of him are still visible, even if they’re behind hatches or a visor, and he may be attacked separately from the Ottoguard- though he benefits from Cover, gaining a +4 bonus to Armor Class.

An Ottoguard isn’t cheap, of course, but by the rules of Ultimate Engineering, Project Materials (for things such as mechanoids) may be acquired freely with time and successful crafting checks (DC 15 for 50 gold worth of material, +50 for each increase of 5, gathered over the course of 4 hours per check), meaning that by carefully sourcing and repurposing parts, the Ottoguard may be constructed from scratch by its pilot for free. This process of assembly and subsequent maintenance are drilled into pilots’ heads from day one. At a cost of 500gp for the average Ottoguard (100 per level, +200 for being large size), and about 100gp of Project Materials being acquired per day, this means an Ottoguard can be fully constructed in a week’s time (not counting the weekend of course). If in a proper settlement and in a real emergency, 500 gold pieces can be paid outright to acquire exactly what is needed almost immediately, after which construction of the Ottoguard takes 1 hour. All of this means that while Ottoguards are probably extremely similar on the outside (serving as somewhere between uniforms and police vehicles, they probably should), a pilot knows their machine inside and out, and there may be differences in the internal construction.

Ottoguard Adventure Hooks

1. A pilot’s Ottoguard has been stolen, likely to be reverse engineered by some enterprising criminals.

2. A pilot has been found guilty of illegally modifying his Ottoguard with blades, flame projectors, and stronger leg actuators. After causing several fires and deaths, he’s gone on the run with his new death machine.

3. A chaotic druid has caused trees and vines to grow over all of the city’s Ottoguards overnight, and has ruined the Ottoworks. With the city’s strongest defenders disabled, and Scalmoor’s stingy oligarchy unwilling to fund that many replacements immediately, the city is in shambles!

4. A mad tinker wizard has stolen the blueprints for the Ottoguards, creating one with an integrated Artificial Intelligence. It’s been going on its own patrols, blending in perfectly and disappearing before it can be apprehended. What is its purpose?

*New Martial Tradition

Mechaguard Equipment Sphere: Bounty Hunter’s Tools Armor Training Tinker Sphere: Transportation Package Wrestling Sphere: (Constrictor Drawback) Hammerlock

Inspirations:

FantasyNameGenerators is a wonderful site, and I used it to come up with the name Scalmoor

Appleseed (the 1988 OVA) is what really inspired this idea, bringing that movie's Landmates into a technologically advanced fantasy setting

[bukmarkmedia]

Honda ZR-V: The Bold New Crossover with a Refined Edge

Honda continues to push boundaries in the crossover segment with the introduction of the Honda ZR-V. This all-new model slots perfectly between the HR-V and the CR-V, offering a sophisticated blend of style, performance, and practicality, making it an ideal choice for modern families and city dwellers alike. With its dynamic design, advanced technology, and enhanced driving experience, the ZR-V is ready to make a significant mark in the competitive world of compact SUVs.

1. Sleek and Sporty Design

The first thing that grabs attention with the Honda ZR-V is its bold design. It features a sleek, streamlined exterior with a sporty edge, making it stand out in the crowded SUV market. The signature Honda front grille, combined with sharp LED headlights, gives the ZR-V a commanding road presence. Its sculpted lines, sloping roofline, and muscular wheel arches highlight its athletic stance, while the stylish alloy wheels add a premium touch.

In addition to its impressive looks, the ZR-V offers a range of color options that allow buyers to express their individuality. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of Platinum White Pearl or the adventurous appeal of Radiant Red Metallic, the ZR-V ensures you’ll arrive in style.

2. Refined Interior with Advanced Tech

Step inside the Honda ZR-V, and you’ll be greeted by a spacious and tech-savvy interior that blends comfort with modernity. The cabin is designed with high-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and ergonomic seating to ensure a premium driving experience. The intuitive dashboard layout puts all the controls within easy reach, creating a seamless connection between the driver and the vehicle.

The ZR-V is equipped with the latest technology, including a 7-inch digital instrument display and an infotainment system with a responsive 9-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come as standard, allowing you to sync your smartphone for navigation, music, and hands-free calls.

To elevate convenience, the ZR-V also offers wireless charging and multiple USB ports for all your devices. The available premium sound system ensures crystal-clear audio for those long road trips or city commutes.

3. Engineered for Performance

The Honda ZR-V strikes the perfect balance between efficiency and power, making it a versatile crossover for various driving needs. Under the hood, it’s powered by Honda's advanced 1.5-liter turbocharged VTEC engine, which delivers an exciting driving performance with impressive fuel efficiency. This engine provides smooth acceleration and excellent responsiveness, whether you’re navigating urban streets or cruising on the highway.

The ZR-V also offers Honda’s Real Time AWD system, providing optimal traction and stability in various driving conditions. Whether you’re driving in the rain, on gravel roads, or through snow, the AWD system ensures confident handling and control.

4. Safety First: Honda Sensing Technology

Safety is a priority in the Honda ZR-V, and it comes equipped with Honda’s full suite of Honda Sensing safety features. This comprehensive package includes advanced driver assistance systems that help to prevent accidents and protect passengers.

Key features of Honda Sensing include:

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Automatically applies the brakes to reduce the severity of a potential collision.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle in front, making long highway journeys more comfortable.

Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, reducing driver fatigue.

Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR): Detects and displays traffic signs on the driver display for better awareness.

These technologies, combined with Honda’s advanced airbag system and a strong ACE™ body structure, ensure maximum safety for all passengers in the event of a crash.

5. Practicality and Versatility

One of the standout features of the Honda ZR-V is its versatility. The spacious interior ensures there’s ample room for passengers and cargo. With its fold-flat rear seats, the ZR-V provides a generous amount of cargo space for all your gear, whether you’re going on a weekend adventure or tackling daily errands. The power tailgate with hands-free access makes loading and unloading even more convenient, especially when your hands are full.

Honda has also ensured that the ZR-V offers excellent fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for those looking for a balance between performance and economy. With eco-friendly features such as Honda’s Eco Assist system, drivers can enjoy better fuel savings without compromising on driving enjoyment.

6. Sustainability and Hybrid Option

As part of Honda’s commitment to a more sustainable future, the ZR-V is also available with a hybrid powertrain in select markets. The ehybrid model combines a powerful electric motor with a fuel-efficient petrol engine, delivering exceptional performance with lower emissions. This makes the ZR-V hybrid an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious drivers who want the versatility of a crossover with the added benefit of lower fuel consumption.

Final Thoughts

The Honda ZR-V is a perfect blend of style, innovation, and practicality, making it a standout in the compact SUV category. Its bold design, advanced technology, and impressive performance are sure to appeal to a wide range of drivers. Whether you’re a family looking for a versatile crossover or an urban driver seeking a stylish and tech-savvy vehicle, the ZR-V has something for everyone. With Honda’s renowned reliability and focus on safety, this new model is set to become a top choice for those looking to upgrade their driving experience.

[xtruss]

Cynthia Chiang Is Searching For Signs of The Universe's First Light

The cosmologist builds her own equipment, and deploys it to the edges of the Earth, to get a hint of how the cosmos came to be.

— July 24, 2024

Cynthia Chiang. Photograph By Mark Thiessen, National Geographic

“It was written in some sense,” that National Geographic Explorer Cynthia Chiang would end up in observational cosmology — the study of the origin and development of the universe using specialized detectors and telescopes. “I’m not going to lie, my father was a physicist. My mother’s an astronomer. But no kid wants to be like their parents,” she jokes, semi-seriously.

Chiang always enjoyed building things. It wasn’t unusual for her to experiment with her father’s research equipment; disassembling vacuum chamber components and putting them back together like a child engineer. She thanks, in part, her short attention span for her evolving curiosity: “I am always looking for something.”

For the last few years, Chiang has been looking for signs of the universe’s early existence — from the birth of the first stars more than 13 billion years ago, to the preceding “cosmic dark ages” — and she’s building her own equipment to do it. As a professor of physics at McGill University, she focuses on peering beyond the universe as it is known today, into its distant past, using novel radio technology.

Since 2017 Chiang and her team at McGill have been engineering and planting radio telescopes in two of the Earth’s most remote (and quietest) places for the best shot at hearing the earliest groans of the cosmos.

Initially, Chiang planned to do her PhD in particle physics but switched direction after a visit to a lab at the California Institute of Technology. “It was complete chaos. There is cryogenic equipment everywhere, tools everywhere. I didn’t know about observational cosmology at the time but thought ‘Whatever this is, I want to do that.’”

She spent a year as a winter-over scientist at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station after working on a few experiments in Antarctica during her PhD and postdoc. One was a balloon-borne microwave telescope that was launched from McMurdo. She could have familiarized herself with telescopes in Hawaii; it was a competing opportunity when she was first offered to go to the South Pole.

“That really catalyzed my love of remote places because it didn’t take me a second to decide…To this day I still have not been to Hawaii.”

Chiang worked as a Dicke postdoctoral fellow with a team of telescope scientists at Princeton University monitoring the cosmic microwave background (CMB) — the remnant radiation left over from the Big Bang.

Eventually, she wanted to engineer her own instruments. After her year at the South Pole Station, she accepted a job at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) in South Africa. At that time, the site decision was made for the largest radio telescope array on Earth — the Square Kilometre Array — and two-thirds of it was awarded to South Africa.

“If We See These Childhood Photos of The Universe, Then We Can Understand The Factors That Affected Its Growth and How It Evolved To Be What We Call Home Now.” — Cynthia Chiang

“This was also a leap of faith because I really couldn’t continue the work I was doing before,” Chiang recalls. “I had never done radio before but I thought, ‘Let me give this a try and see how it goes.’”

It was her entry point to cosmic radio waves, from cosmic microwaves.

A Matter of Tuning In

Chiang is wearing a glow-in-the-dark, constellation-adorned dress. To be clear, she is not an astronomer, though her mother is and probably would have loved for her to be too. “Astronomers study stars and planets, fine details in the sky. They can tell you what the constellations are. Please don’t ask me that,” she jokes. Chiang has her own specialty. As a cosmologist, she’s interested in the bigger picture. “We do statistics. And for a long time we did not have data, we were just doing simulations. It really started with Edwin Hubble.”

Hubble’s Telescope kicked things off in the 1900s, and precision cosmology wouldn’t come into existence until the 1980s.

To date, cosmologists have been able to make direct observations as far back as the Big Bang afterglow, the cosmic microwave background. Chiang describes it as “a snapshot of the universe when it was born.”

What can be seen of this time, which was before the birth of the first stars, otherwise known as the “cosmic dawn”, is “like a photo, a two-dimensional thing,” around 400,000 years after the explosive genesis of the universe.

Six years ago, Experiment to Detect the Global EoR Signature, a radio observation experiment based in Australia, may have captured the only verified record of the cosmic dawn, but what they detected needs a cross-check to confirm it was real.

“We’re motivated to resolve this question because the payoff would be huge,” Chiang says.

She compares the age of the universe when the first stars ignited to a human toddler: “And a toddler looks different than an adult. If we see these childhood photos of the universe, then we can understand the factors that affected its growth and how it evolved to be what we call home now.”

It’s really hard to obtain what she and other scientists are after. The portal is hydrogen. Chiang breaks down how the universe evolved during the cosmic dark ages, before the first stars turned on:

“The universe was filled with, to good approximation, nothing but hydrogen. Some helium as well but mostly hydrogen. It was dark and boring. It turns out that if you can measure where hydrogen lives during this period of darkness, it’s like getting a three-dimensional scan instead of a two-dimensional photograph.”

Similar to an FM car radio, Chiang’s telescopes measure light at radio wavelengths. Though ideally, they don’t pick up all the human-generated noise, just the signals emitted by hydrogen when the universe was giving birth to itself. Hydrogen emits a unique glow and its wavelength is directly proportional to its distance from Earth. The further away the light is, the older it is.

“So if we want to study any part of the universe’s history, we can tune into the right wavelength. The wavelengths we want to catch are very, very faint,” and very, very old.

Hence why Chiang has to plant her instruments away from it all, at the ends of the Earth.

One of the antenna stations of the ALBATROS radio astronomy experiment, installed at the McGill Arctic Research Station. Photograph By Anthony Zerafa

“Impulsiveness and a bit of mischief,” she says, have characterized her journey through the cosmos. “And a lot of coincidences afterward. It was not too long after I started radio in South Africa that we found out about Marion Island.”

Dodging Human Noise

About halfway between South Africa and Antarctica, 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles) from anything else, Chiang found a researcher’s paradise. Chiang’s husband and collaborator spotted Marion Island in an in-flight magazine while the two were en route to South Africa.

One of the most remote regions on Earth, Marion Island is an ideal place to get away from radio foreground contamination. In 2018, Chiang and a team of scientists planted Probing Radio Intensity at high-Z from Marion (PRIZM). Designed by the team at McGill and UKZN, PRIZM is an instrument looking for a 21-centimeter signal emitted by hydrogen, stretched to the frequency of the universe’s first billion years.

PRIZM collected data through 2023 as weather permitted on Marion. At times the conditions were too dangerous to hike to the site of the telescope, which was intentionally set up several kilometers away from the island’s main research base. Throughout the year, the instruments, and their caretakers, were battered by wind, salt spray and invasive species. “If it’s not the salt water, it’s the mice.”

Marion Island is a South African research base located in the sub-Antarctic. The island is uniquely radio quiet for astronomical observations. Chiang’s radio telescope installations are sited behind the central hill in the photo, a few kilometers away from the research base that is visible in the foreground. Photograph By Mohan Agrawal

The data analysis is still in process, but so far, Chiang has high expectations for its pristineness. As a follow-up, Chiang works as a co-investigator on Mapper of the Intergalactic Medium Spin Temperature (MIST). The new-generation experiment, developed in 2020, is being conducted from the Arctic. “The MIST analysis is going to be super fun. We normally have a wall of radio stations just killing our cosmic dawn signal. This is wide open for us and it’s clean.”

On another side of the planet relative to Marion, the team identified a different radio-quiet base in the Canadian High Arctic to plant MIST and another telescope array that will look even further back in time. MIST's companion experiment “is part of a longer, crazier frame I have,” Chiang explains. “The cosmic dark ages.” This epoch has never been observed and is uncharted territory in the universe's history.

Array of Long Baseline Antennas for Taking Radio Observations from the Sub-Antarctic/Seventy-ninth parallel, or ALBATROS for short, is a network of antennas the team is building up now. The array is sprinkled across Axel Heiberg Island, and the idea is the antennas will work together to take pictures of the radio sky. “That means the timing has to be consistent. We have to have a common heartbeat between antennas that are separated by many kilometers. That’s a huge engineering challenge.”

So far there are four in place, and the team is aiming for eight. Each year the goal is to install between three and four, but the reality of the challenging landscape keeps bringing the number down. “Last year it was because of a helicopter crash. Everyone’s okay, thankfully. Two years before it was because of weather delays,” Chiang says.

“Our ‘station’ — I say station in quotes because it’s three buildings — it’s a slapdash operation. We try to make the best of it by going one step at a time,” Chiang says. “The upshot is there is no winter population,” and thus, no noise. In general, there’s not much.

“The first question I usually get asked about working in the Arctic is ‘Do you get to shower? What are the toilets like?’ We don’t have to dig holes. There is a spot, up the hill, around the corner, a really nice view of a glacier while you’re contemplating life and other things,” she reassures.

In this remote researcher's paradise, Axel Heiberg Island in the Canadian High Arctic, the team's outhouse is equipped with an ice axe toilet paper holder. Photograph By Cynthia Chiang

Because of the weather, the instruments are set up and left to run autonomously for a year. It’s also important that ALBATROS, which is trying to pick up the lowest frequencies, runs through the Arctic winter — when solar activity is at a minimum and interferes least with the Earth’s ionosphere. This provides the highest chance for clean data. “The ionosphere basically scrambles and blurs radio signals as they travel through, and the lowest frequencies are blocked entirely,” Chiang explains.

Some instruments, expectedly, have died part way through the winter. Some things have survived. “For me, that’s a huge win. It’s beyond what I could have ever dreamed before,” says Chiang. The team is still installing the array, so pictures haven’t been made yet, but overcoming technical challenges while building instruments from scratch is a successful start.

“Our credit really goes to our amazing students. They have spent countless hours, years, testing software and hardware to make sure it survives for a year, that if there is a glitch in a computer it will reboot on its own and take care of itself. It’s a huge amount of work.”

The first picture ALBATROS is aiming for will be of the closest view from Earth — the Milky Way galaxy — which is just clutter in the foreground when trying to peer billions of years into the past. “The Milky Way is much brighter than anything from the dark ages. We want to see if it’s even possible to get a nice picture of the Milky Way to start,” Chiang explains. Then effectively, subtract the Milky Way from the bigger picture.

“The state of the art we have in terms of what the Milky Way looks like at the lowest frequencies dates from the ’60s. That’s the best we have.”

McGill students Tristan Ménard, Larry Herman, and Joëlle Bégin install an ALBATROS radio antenna at the McGill Research Station on Axel Heiberg Island. Photograph By Anthony Zerafa

What sets Chiang’s instruments apart from larger telescopes, like the infrared vision James Webb Space Telescope, also trying to peer into the formation of the first stars, is that they do broad strokes. Even as small-scale experiments, MIST and ALBATROS gather big-picture data that complement the detailed view from the world’s largest telescopes.

Over the next few years, Chiang and her team will continue installation and observation in hopes of getting a good look at the universe in its infancy. The sun’s activity cycle will also play a part. When the solar minimum arrives in a few years, that’s when the best pictures will be taken. In the meantime, Chiang will work on imaging the Milky Way, and refine her instrumentation.

“That’s a fun aspect about building the instruments ourselves, we get to customize.”

Chiang estimates the science may be a decade off if not more when it comes to detecting the cosmic dark ages, “but you start one step at a time,” and leave room for surprises.

She references a quote by mathematical physicist Freeman Dyson: “What we’re really hoping for is new and unexpected discoveries because nature’s imagination is richer than ours.”

[brookemedbil]

Learning Medical Billing and Coding: The Ultimate Resume Guide for Healthcare Professionals

**Title**: Mastering ⁤Medical Billing‍ and Coding: ⁣The⁢ Ultimate Resume Guide for Healthcare Professionals

**Meta Title**: Comprehensive Guide⁢ to Mastering ‍Medical Billing ⁣and Coding Resumes

**Meta Description**: ⁣Learn‌ how to create ⁢a top-notch‍ resume ⁢for medical billing and coding positions with this comprehensive⁣ guide for healthcare professionals.

—

**Introduction**

In the fast-paced world of ‌healthcare, medical billing and coding professionals play a crucial role in ‌ensuring that healthcare providers are adequately⁣ compensated for their ⁤services.​ With the ​increasing demand for skilled ​individuals in this field, mastering medical billing and coding is essential⁤ for healthcare professionals looking to advance their careers. One of ⁤the most ‍important ​aspects of landing a‌ job⁣ in this field​ is having an impressive resume that highlights⁣ your skills and experience. This ‌ultimate resume guide will‍ provide you ‍with valuable​ tips and strategies to create a standout ‌resume that will catch the attention ​of potential employers.

—

**Benefits and Practical Tips**

**Benefits of a Well-Crafted Resume**: 1. Increases your chances of landing a job interview. 2. Showcases your skills and experience effectively. 3. Sets⁣ you apart from other⁢ candidates ⁣in a⁢ competitive job market.

**Practical Tips for a Successful Medical Billing and‍ Coding⁣ Resume**: 1. Tailor your resume to the ⁤specific ⁢job you are applying for. 2. Highlight your ⁣relevant skills and certifications. 3. Include quantifiable achievements‌ and results. 4. Use⁣ keywords related to medical ⁤billing and coding to‌ improve‍ searchability.

—

**Mastering Medical Billing and Coding Resume Tips**

**1. Format Your Resume Appropriately**:

When creating your medical billing and coding resume, ​ensure that it is well-structured and easy to⁢ read. Use a‍ clean and professional format with⁤ consistent font styles and sizes. Consider using⁤ bullet points to list your skills and experience⁣ for better‌ readability.

Example of a properly formatted ⁤resume:

| Name: | John Doe | | — | — | | ⁣Contact Information: |‌ Email:⁢ john.doe@example.com Phone:​ (123) 456-7890 |

**2. Highlight ‌Your Skills and Certifications**:

Emphasize your relevant ⁢skills and certifications in⁣ medical billing and coding to showcase⁢ your expertise to potential employers. Include any specialized training ‌or certifications ⁤you have obtained, such⁢ as Certified Professional Coder ‌(CPC) ⁣or Certified Medical Billing Specialist (CMBS).

Example of skills section in a resume:

**Skills**: – Proficient in ICD-10 and CPT coding – Knowledge of medical terminology – Experience with electronic health records (EHR) ​systems

**3. Include Quantifiable Achievements**:

Quantify your achievements in previous roles to ​demonstrate your impact and effectiveness ‍as a​ medical billing and coding professional. Include metrics ⁣such as percentage of claims processed accurately or reduction in denials⁣ rate ‌to showcase your contributions to previous employers.

Example of achievement statement in a resume:

**Achievements**: -⁣ Increased revenue by‌ 20% through efficient billing practices -‌ Reduced⁢ denials rate by 15% through thorough coding audits

**4. Use Keywords for Search Engine Optimization**:

Including​ relevant⁢ keywords⁤ related to medical billing and coding in ‍your ⁣resume can improve its searchability and increase ⁣your chances of ⁢being found⁢ by employers. Use keywords‌ such as medical coding, insurance claims, revenue cycle ⁤management, and healthcare compliance to optimize your resume for search engines.

—

**Conclusion**

Creating a ​top-notch ⁣resume for medical billing ​and coding positions is ⁣essential for ⁤healthcare professionals⁢ looking‌ to advance their careers in this field. ⁢By following the tips and strategies outlined in this ultimate ⁢resume ‍guide, you can craft a standout resume that⁤ effectively highlights your skills and experience. Remember to format your resume appropriately, highlight your skills and certifications, include quantifiable‌ achievements, ⁤and use keywords for search engine⁣ optimization. With a well-crafted resume, you can increase your chances of landing your‌ dream job ​in medical billing⁣ and coding.

Remember,⁤ your ‍resume is your first impression to potential employers, so make it count!

—⁢

By following these tips and strategies, you can master the art of creating a winning resume for medical billing and coding‌ positions,‍ setting yourself apart from the competition and landing​ your dream job in the healthcare industry. Good luck!

https://medicalbillingcodingcourses.net/learning-medical-billing-and-coding-the-ultimate-resume-guide-for-healthcare-professionals/

[carnaud-12]

Profiling Lacquer Machine: Enhancing Efficiency in Can Manufacturing

In the highly specialized field of metal packaging, precision and efficiency are paramount. Among the innovative solutions that cater to these demands is the profiling lacquer machine, a key player in applying protective coatings to cans and other metal containers. With its advanced capabilities, this machine ensures durability, enhances product aesthetics, and meets the rigorous requirements of the packaging industry.

What is a Profiling Lacquer Machine?

A profiling lacquer machine is a highly specialized piece of equipment used in the can manufacturing process. It applies a precise layer of lacquer or coating to the surface of metal cans, ensuring protection against corrosion and enhancing the can’s appearance. This process is vital for industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, where metal packaging must maintain product integrity and meet safety standards.

Key Features of a Profiling Lacquer Machine:

Precision Coating: The machine delivers uniform lacquer application, ensuring optimal coverage on all surfaces.

Customization: Adjustable settings allow for tailored finishes based on specific requirements, from matte to high gloss.

Efficiency: With high-speed operation, the machine can handle large production volumes without compromising quality.

Environmental Compliance: Modern machines are designed to minimize waste and adhere to eco-friendly standards.

Benefits of Profiling Lacquer Machines:

Corrosion Resistance: Protects the can's metal surface from environmental factors like moisture and chemicals.

Improved Aesthetics: Enhances the visual appeal of cans with smooth, consistent finishes.

Product Safety: Ensures food-grade compliance by preventing the interaction between the can’s metal and its contents.

Cost Efficiency: Reduces material wastage and optimizes the manufacturing process.

Why Choose CarnaudMetalbox Engineering?

CarnaudMetalbox Engineering (CMB Engineering) is a global leader in providing state-of-the-art solutions for the metal packaging industry. Their profiling lacquer machines stand out due to their cutting-edge technology, robust construction, and commitment to innovation.

Unmatched Quality: CMB Engineering’s machines are designed for precision and durability, ensuring a reliable and efficient coating process.

Tailored Solutions: Their equipment is customizable to meet the specific needs of diverse industries.

Global Support: With a strong presence worldwide, CarnaudMetalbox Engineering offers comprehensive after-sales service, ensuring smooth operation and minimal downtime.

Applications of Profiling Lacquer Machines:

Food and Beverage Industry: Coating cans to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

Aerosol Packaging: Providing durable finishes for aerosol containers.

Industrial Packaging: Ensuring long-lasting protection for chemical and paint cans.

[the-whatcherof-89]

Ethoslab Ladders Aka Mr Clark Snappers.

CR 20 NG Medium Humanoid

XP 307,200 (if used as npc for encounter)Middle aged Human Rogue (Phantom Thief)10 Living Monolith 10

Neutral Good Medium humanoid

Init +8; Senses Perception +36

AC 40, touch 24, flat-footed 32 (+8 Dex, +5 Deflection, +5 Natural, +1 Insight, +6 Armor, +5 Shield) hp 135 (16d6+75)

Fort +17, Ref +22, Will +16

Speed 30 ft. Melee Adamantine shortsword +27/22/17 1D6+5 Ranged Crossbow +31/26/21 1D8+9

Racial Bonus feat (Fast learner), +1 Skill point per level.

Traits Pragmatic activator, Nervous.

Class features Refined education(Craft:Stone, Perception, Stealth, Spellcraft)+5, Broad education(Finesse rogue, Positioning attack, Improved feint, Minor magic, Major magic), Social sense+3, Advanced rogue talent: Shrine walk, Soul stone, Stone blood, Fortified flesh(DR 3/- 30%), Stability, Bombsight, Immune to disease, Attunement to stone, Summon sphinx, Ageless stone, Judgement of the monolith, Master Ka stone.

Spellcasting CL10 DC20 Crafter’s fortune 5/day Read magic/at will.

Str 10, Dex 26, Con 20, Int 30, Wis 18, Cha 14

Base Atk +14/9/4; CMB +13; CMD +31

Feats Shield proficiency, Rapid reload, Point blank shot, Precise shot, Snap shot, Rapid shot, Crossbow mastery, Master crafter, Endurance, Iron will.

Special His immortality gives him the +2 bonuses for old age but no penalties thanks to his immortality.

Skills Acrobatics +30, Appraise +18, Bluff +25, Climb +20, Craft(Stone) +33, Craft(Redstone)+33, Disguise +11, Disable +14, Escape artist +20, Handle animal +13, Heal +11, Intimidate +11, Knowledge (Arcana +30, Dungeon +18, Engineering +30, Nature +20, Geography +18, History +15, Local 15, Nobility +14, The planes+14, Religion +14), Linguistics +5, Perception +26, Perform(dance) +7, Profession(Engineer) +21, Ride +16, Sense motive +16, Sleight of hand +16, Spellcraft +35, Stealth +30, Survival +16, Swim +20, Use magic device +33.

Languages Common, Draconic, Elven, Dwarven, Sphinx, Giant, Sylvan, Undercommon, Alko.

Combat gear Cornerstone crossbow+5, 45 +4 Bolts, Adamantine defending shortsword+5, 2 Daggers of doubling, Returning trident+1, Amulet of natural armor+5, Ring of protection+5, Scholar’s ring, Dragon form armor(Black)+5, Animated fire resistance darkwood buckler+4, Belt of physical might+6 (Dex, Con), Headband of mental prowess+6 (Int, Wis, Bluff), Coat of resistance+4, Cloak of comfort, Shoes of the lighting leaper, Bracers of the falcon aim, Wands (Fly, Haste, Cure moderate wounds), Potions:Blur(1), Cure critical wounds(2), Manual of quickness of action+3(Used), Tome of clear thought+4(Used), Ioun stones: Dusty rose prism, Western star, Bag of holding type I, Small anvil with the phrase “You got Etho’ed” on the side, Rogue kit, 113GP.

Background Ethoslab also known simply as Etho hails from a far land of Hermits where he is renowned for his pioneering and discoveries in the field of redstone. Etho is a quirky, intelligent, adaptive individual that has some nervous moments popping out sometimes. Nevertheless, Etho’s knowledge of redstone and architecture is unparalleled and even his colleagues Mumbo and Grian recognized his talent. Etho being very old, sometimes struggles to find something new to do that would stimulate his mind even if that means pushing things to the extreme, sometimes. Regardless, his favorite thing is dropping anvils on unsuspecting hermits via very complex contraptions and he was about to drop one on his friend Scar but he was interrupted by an ethereal voice: “You want to see new horizons? I can help with that. Would you like to accept my challenge?” Etho was confused for a moment but then saw a chest that wasn’t there before. “If you are interested, open it. Never seen before horizons awaits you.” Etho was hesitant for a moment but he just could not resist. As soon as he opened the chest the world around him changed as so did his equipment. He stood in the middle of a jungle with new tools, knowledge and a map in hand. “Find me if you can. And if you succeed i will grant your deepest wish.” Etho looked around and spotted a Llama. “Well, would you  look at that.” And he smirked.

Image made using Heroforge.

[thecreaturecodex]

Dread Domicile

"The Dread Gazebo Updated" 3-D model by Michael Zavala under the Creative Commons license. Accessed at My Mini Factory here

[Sponsored by @balmz. "Eric and the Dread Gazebo" is a classic bit of tabletop gaming lore, which is older than I am. I haven't had this exact experience, of course, but as someone who uses a large vocabulary at the table, I have been on the receiving end of similar confusion. Rather than just make mine a gazebo, I took inspiration from the AD&D house hunter mimic.]

Dread Domicile CR 16 NE Aberration What appeared to be a gazebo reveals itself as a monster, its entrance growing a fanged maw and lashing tentacles growing around its perimeter. It has leering, dreadful eyes.

A dread domicile is a giant variant of mimic, capable of disguising itself as a whole building. Cottages, barns, sheds and gazebos are common choices for camouflage, and the dread domicile can enhance the appearance with lights, props, and even the sounds of conversation, farm animals or music. Unlike ordinary mimics, dread domiciles are typically evil—they actively hunt and eat sapient prey above all others. A number of them live in shantytowns or other rundown urban neighborhoods, where their victims won’t go missed.

Dread domiciles are slow, so they use ambush to hunt. They can feel vibrations in the ground, and so usually close their eyes until a creature has actually touched it. Their gaze causes creatures to cower in fear, so any creature that is not glued in place is usually unable to assist its allies. Glued prey is then transferred to the domicile’s mouth and swallowed whole, sequestered in a little pocket that acts as a stomach. A dread domicile will swallow multiple creatures if it can, and rapidly reshapes itself to accommodate new victims if a creature cuts its way out. Because of their low speed, a dread domicile is more likely to surrender and try to negotiate for its life than it is to flee. They collect plenty of treasure, which they use as both bait and bribes.

Variant Dread Domicile A dread vessel is an aquatic version of a dread domicile. It masquerades as a small ship, or occasionally as a raft, floating driftwood or even a whale carcass. A dread vessel is a dread domicile with the aquatic subtype, amphibious special quality, a land speed of 10 feet and a swim speed of 40 feet. A dread vessel is still a CR 16 creature.

Dread Domicile    CR 16 XP 76,800 NE Gargantuan aberration Init +3; Senses darkvision 60 ft., Perception +20, tremorsense 120 ft. Defense AC 30, touch 5, flat-footed 30 (-4 size, -1 Dex, +25 natural) hp 270 (20d8+180) Fort +17, Ref +5, Will +16 DR 15/magic and slashing; Resist acid 10, cold 10, electricity 10 Offense Speed 20 ft. Melee bite +21 (2d8+10 plus grab), 6 tentacles +19 (1d8+5 plus adhesive) Space 20 ft.; Reach 20 ft. (10 ft. with bite) Special Attacks gaze, swallow whole (AC 22, 27 hp, 2d6+10 bludgeoning and 2d6 acid) Statistics Str 31, Dex 8, Con 29, Int 12, Wis15, Cha 18 Base Atk +15; CMB +29 (+33 grapple); CMD 39 (cannot be tripped) Feats Blind-fight,Critical Focus, Deceitful, Great Fortitude, Improved Critical (bite), Improved Initiative, Iron Will, Multiattack, Power Attack, Tiring Critical Skills Bluff +23, Climb +18, Disguise +26 (+46 as a building), Knowledge (dungeoneering) +16, Knowledge (engineering) +19, Perception +20, Sense Motive +17, Swim +18; Racial Modifiers +20 Disguise to appear as a building Languages Aboleth, Common SQ mimic building, sound mimicry (any) Ecology Environment any land or urban Organization solitary or development (2-6) Treasure standard Special Abilities Adhesive (Ex) A dread domicile exudes a thick slime that acts as a powerful adhesive, holding fast any creatures or items that touch it. An adhesive-covered dread domicile automatically grapples any creature it hits with its tentacle attack. Opponents so grappled cannot get free while the dreadful domicile is alive without removing the adhesive first, or if the dread domicile chooses. A weapon that strikes an adhesive-coated dreadful domicile is stuck fast unless the wielder succeeds on a DC 30 Reflex save. A successful DC 26 Strength check is needed to pry off a stuck weapon. A dread domicile can transfer a creature glued to itself in this way into its mouth with an action to maintain the grapple. Strong alcohol or universal solvent dissolves the adhesive, but the dread domicile can still grapple normally. A dreadful domicile can dissolve its adhesive at will, and the substance breaks down 5 rounds after the creature dies. The save DC is Strength-based, and the Strength check DC suffers a -4 racial penalty. Gaze (Su) Range 30 ft.; save Will DC 24; effect cower in fear 1d4 rounds. This is a fear effect, and the save DC is Charisma based. Mimic Building (Ex) A dread domicile gains a +20 racial bonus on any Disguise checks to disguise itself as a building of Gargantuan size. It can change its color and texture, and even create open spaces or lights (which radiate light up to that of a torch). Disguise is always a class skill for dread domiciles. Swallow Whole (Ex) A dread domicile reshapes itself to have a separate stomach chamber for each creature it swallows.A creature that cuts itself out of a dread domicile has a 25% chance to cut into another chamber and thus remain swallowed. A dread domicile can use its swallow whole ability even if a creature cuts its way out.

[johnalexcooper]

Discover the Honda HR-V: A Perfect Blend of Style, Performance, and Technology in Peebles

When it comes to choosing a versatile, stylish, and technology-packed compact SUV, the Honda HR-V stands out as a top contender. With its sleek design, advanced features, and reliable performance, the Honda HR-V has captured the hearts of drivers in Peebles and beyond. In this blog, we will delve into the specifications, technology, and overall appeal of the Honda HR-V, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of why this vehicle is an excellent choice for your next drive.

The Honda HR-V: A Brief Overview

The Honda HR-V is a subcompact crossover SUV that seamlessly combines the versatility of an SUV with the agility and fuel efficiency of a smaller car. Since its introduction, the HR-V has garnered a reputation for its reliability, spacious interior, and innovative features. Whether you are navigating through the charming streets of Peebles or embarking on an adventurous road trip, the Honda HR-V is designed to meet your needs with style and efficiency.

Exterior Design and Styling

One of the first things you'll notice about the Honda HR-V is its eye-catching design. The HR-V boasts a modern and sporty exterior that exudes confidence and sophistication. Its sleek lines, bold front grille, and LED headlights give it a dynamic presence on the road. The stylish alloy wheels and available roof rails add a touch of versatility and practicality, making it perfect for both urban and outdoor adventures.

The Honda HR-V is available in a range of vibrant colours, allowing you to choose a shade that reflects your style. From the classic Crystal Black Pearl to the vibrant Milano Red, there's a colour for every taste.

Interior Comfort and Space

Step inside the Honda HR-V, and you'll be greeted by a spacious and well-appointed interior that offers both comfort and functionality. The HR-V's cabin is designed with high-quality materials and thoughtful details, ensuring a pleasant driving experience for both the driver and passengers.

One of the standout features of the HR-V is its Magic Seat® system, which allows for multiple seating configurations and impressive cargo space. With the rear seats folded down, you can enjoy up to 58.8 cubic feet of cargo space, making it easy to transport everything from groceries to sports equipment. The 60/40 split second-row seats can also be configured to accommodate taller items, thanks to the Tall Mode feature.

Honda HR-V Specifications

The Honda HR-V is equipped with a robust powertrain that delivers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. Let's take a closer look at the key specifications of the Honda HR-V:

- Engine: The HR-V comes with a 1.8-litre i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine, producing 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), providing smooth and responsive acceleration.

- Fuel Efficiency: The HR-V boasts impressive fuel efficiency, with an estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. It is a cost-effective option for both daily transportation and extended journeys.

- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): For those seeking enhanced traction and stability, the HR-V offers an available Real-time AWD with Intelligent Control System™, ensuring confident performance in various driving conditions.

- Towing Capacity: The HR-V can tow up to 1,000 pounds, allowing you to bring along small trailers or recreational equipment for your adventures.

Advanced Technology Features

The Honda HR-V is packed with advanced technology features that enhance convenience, connectivity, and safety. Here are some of the standout tech features you can expect in the HR-V:

- Honda Sensing® Suite: This suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies includes features such as Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS). These systems work together to help you stay aware of your surroundings and mitigate potential collisions.

- Infotainment System: The HR-V comes with a user-friendly infotainment system that includes a 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen. You can easily access your favourite apps, navigation, and music through Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration.

- Bluetooth® Connectivity: Stay connected on the go with Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® and streaming audio, allowing you to make hands-free calls and stream your favourite music.

- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces is a breeze with the HR-V's multi-angle rearview camera, which provides three different views (normal, top-down, and wide) to help you navigate with confidence.

Driving Experience in Peebles

Driving the Honda HR-V in Peebles offers a delightful experience, thanks to its nimble handling, smooth ride, and advanced features. Whether you're exploring the picturesque countryside, commuting to work, or running errands around town, the HR-V's compact size and responsive performance make it an ideal choice for various driving scenarios.

The HR-V's elevated driving position provides excellent visibility, allowing you to confidently navigate through traffic and enjoy scenic views. The available real-time AWD ensures you can tackle challenging road conditions, making it a reliable companion during Scotland's unpredictable weather.

Conclusion: Why Choose the Honda HR-V in Peebles?

The Honda HR-V is a versatile and stylish compact SUV that excels in performance, technology, and comfort. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and impressive fuel efficiency make it a practical choice for families, adventurers, and commuters alike. Whether you're driving through the charming streets of Peebles or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Honda HR-V is designed to meet your needs with style and reliability.

If you're in the market for a compact SUV that offers the perfect blend of versatility, technology, and performance, look no further than the Honda HR-V. Visit your local dealership in Peebles to experience the HR-V firsthand and discover why it's a favourite among drivers in Scotland and beyond.

[soylent-crocodile]

Plague Spitter (Monster)

(Plague Spitter by Chippy)

(The plague spitter is meant to be closer to an environmental hazard than a creature per se; designed to sit upwind of a town and poison everyone. Personally I think it's cool and incredibly nasty of original phyrexia to have creatures designed specifically to blight an entire region. That is hardcore evil.

Also, if it's not clear, people catching smoke plague outside the 100ft radius would be an Act Of GM; get a few townsfolk infected and let the PCs not be exposed until they're in combat range.)

CR6 N Huge Aberration (Phyrexian)

Plague spitters are massive reservoirs of an engineered disease known as the smoke plague, designed to blight and destroy population centers so they can be rebuilt in phyrexia's glory.

The spitters themselves are mindless beasts, guided by an engineered instinct to stand firm wherever a phyrexian places them and respire their noxious disease, defending themselves by ramming with their armored face if any threat comes near. Despite their great bulk, spitters are capable of short sprints when stirred into action, something which surprises many adversaries of Phyrexia. Spitters are often placed near cliffs, both so that their airborn plague can travel, and so that spitters can use their weight to shove enemies off the cliff if need be.

A bloated, tick-like monster clings tightly to its perch, spewing black smoke from holes in its swollen back.

Misc- CR6 N Huge Aberration (Phyrexian) HD10 Init:-2 Senses: Perception:+10 Aura: 

Stats- Str:24(+7) Dex:6(-2) Con:20(+5) Int:1(-5) Wis:14(+2) Cha:4(-3) BAB:+7/+6 Space:15ft Reach:10ft

Defense- HP:95(10d8+50) AC:16 (-2 Dex, -2 Size, +10 Natural) Fort:+8 Ref:+3 Will:+9 CMD: Resist: Cold 10, Fire 10, Electricity 10 Immunity: Acid, Curse, Disease, Poison

Offense- Slam +11(1d8+7 plus 1d3 Con damage) CMB:+14 Speed:30ft

Feats- Lightning Reflexes, Power Attack (-2/+4), Greater Bull Rush, Vital Strike, Awesome Blow

Skills- Climb +12, Perception +10

Special Qualities- Smoke Plague (100ft)

Ecology- Environment- Plains, Mountains (Any) Languages- None Organization- Host (3-5) Treasure- None

Special Abilities- Smoke Plague (Ex)- A plague spitter, as its name suggests, is constantly producing and spewing a black smoke of viral disease. This smoke remains virulent when dispersed by wind, and may travel up to a mile before the disease is neutralized. Creatures starting their turn within 100ft of a plague spewer are exposed to the smoke plague; Type: Disease, Inhaled Save: Fort DC16 Onset: Instantaneous Effect: 1d3 Con and Str damage, victim is exhaling black smoke in a 10ft radius that exposes all creature within it to smoke plague Cure: two consecutive saves.