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Bad Kelsey: A Challenge
Bad Kelsey: The Challenge (read this first!)
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Topic: Bad Kelsey: The Challenge (read this first!) (Read 3866 times)
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Bad Kelsey: The Challenge (read this first!)
June 13, 2005, 01:05:27 AM »
Initially, I was simply attempting to write a story where Kelsey does something bad. I tried, I really, really tried, but when I reached the point of tackling the conclusion, I realized there were many different possible endings to choose from. Enter THE CHALLENGE!
The following is the setup of the story of
Bad Kelsey
. It's up to whoever decides to take the challenge to add your own version of how the story ends.
Kylia would not be swayed.
Nooooo! I dont want to!! The girl gasped for breath, a hiccup escaping through a crack in her sobs.
But you are very, very tired, sweetheart. Merena tried to sound logical and calm, as if she was discussing crop rotation with her daughter, or restocking the river, or cross-pollination, but it was hard to be firm.
By the gods, shed rather face Irenicus or the Five again than swallow the sorrow of a little girl betrayed by naptime. But swallow, she must. Mommy is very, very tired. Cant we close our eyes together? I wager I can stay still and quiet longer than you can.
NOOO!! Palpable heartbreak. No, you cah-hant!!
Merena watched as her daughter squeezed her eyelids shut, swamped in angry defiance, and fought back a sigh. It hadnt been so long since shed had the luxury of curling up next to a gurgling angel. Then Kylia had discovered the word no, unleashing it with all the fury and willful vigor of a warrior two year-old.
As she settled next to her daughters stiff little form on the pallet, Merena swore to herself that she hadnt been this way with Gorion. Surely shed been more patient with him? Merena hoped so, yet found she could not remember much before her fifth birthday. Chagrined, she offered up a silent prayer of apology, just in case.
With relief, Merena noticed that Kylias limbs had grown languid as she lay still. They would nap, after all. Everything would be much brighter when they awoke.
Boss? Her daughters lids fluttered, struggling for a last moment of liberty. It had been amusing initially, when Kylia had been learning her first words, hilarious to hear the infant mimic her fathers use of the pet name. Now it hurt.
Im not in charge here. Im your mother.
Yes, Kylia? Merlena whispered.
Her daughter whispered back. If Daddy told me a nap story, Kylia confessed somberly, I would be okay.
Merenas heart twisted. She hugged her daughter tightly, and Kylia seemed to share the need for a moment, clinging to her mothers neck for dear life. They lay there silently, neither quite crying, neither quite at peace.
Another whisper. I miss him.
Me, too.
They were outside catching the fireflies of dusk when Merena heard the footfall. She could pick three unique treads, and though she experienced a twinge of familiarity, Merena could sense instinctively that none of the arrivals were men coming home. They were visitors. She kept one watchful eye on the shadows of the wood, the other on her daughter, just in case it was trouble approaching.
When Kylia recognized the sound of company, her face lit up like one of the bobbing insects. She ran toward the woods with determined certainty. Daddy!
But her father did not appear. Instead, a pink-tinted head emerged from the green canvas of shrubbery and branches. Kylias run stumbled to a halt and the toddlers shoulders slumped as her disappointment swelled. Then, after a heartbeat, she rebounded with childish enthusiasm and leapt joyously at their guest. Aunt Immy!
Imoen caught her niece with a chuckle. Heya, monkey! Got any tickles hidden on ya?
Kylia chuckled, too. No! It was her favorite word, after all.
Imoen feigned incredulity. No? No?! I dont believe it. A kidlet like you must be a tickle emporium. Youve gotta have a few stashed here. She wiggled her fingertips underneath Kylias chin, causing a spate of giggling. I thought so. Youre holding out on me. Ill get your tickles, I will. With that, Imoen flipped her niece upside down, dangling her so her red curls almost brushed the soft grass. Tickle, tickle, tickle. Kylia whooped in gleeful abandon.
Merena crossed her arms, hugging herself, trying to give the appearance of beaming delight, not jealousy. Nalia stepped into the clearing and gingerly begin to disengage burrs from the hem of her robe, until Keto wavered along behind and bumped into her. There was a momentary battle for balance, a few scowls of accusation, then both redheads turned their attention to Merena.
Merena fixed a smile and waved. Arent you a sight for sore eyes? How long has it been?
Imoen had shown mercy to her niece and set her down on the bed of grass with only a kiss on the forehead as forfeit. Kylia sat up at her mothers question, answering matter-of-factly, You know, Boss, she said. It was before Daddy left.
This is awkward, Nalia muttered under her breath. I knew it might be uncomfortable, of course, but this...
Quit mincing, Nalia, Keto countered, as she topped off her wine glass. You dont have to say anything. I have to say it. Im the talker. I talk. She gulped half of the glasss contents with gusto. Some would say professionally. Let the professional handle it. You just sit there and look earnest and concerned, eh?
Earnest and concerned. Nalia nodded. I think I can handle that. She worried her upper lip. But wont it be awkward ?
Not among friends. Merena hovered in the bedroom doorway. Not if youre earnest and concerned, she said, closing the gap between the bedroom and the table.
Gaagh, Keto groaned. You and your formerly godlike hearing.
Im the tracker. I track. Merena shrugged as she took a seat across from the other two women. Some would say professionally. She gave Nalia a measuring stare, then Keto. Kylia decided that her Aunt Immy must put her to sleep. I guess that makes me odd girl out.
A hard, silent minute passed before Nalia shifted in her chair. I knew it! This is uncomfortable. I told you, Keto!
Yeah, we all hear you, Nalia. Thanks a muffin basket, Keto said sarcastically.
If you have something to say to me, Merena said quietly as she usurped Ketos wine cup and took a deep draught, please, get the concern and earnestness over with.
Well Keto hemmed. Its kind of a personal thing. Uhm, its just that I heard not to be nosy, or anything, but uhh
Keto heard talk of Kelsey in Trademeet, Nalia announced. He arrived there from the east with a party of adventurers.
Female adventurers.
I know, Merena said, tilting her chin with pride. He wrote of it. They were tracking a cadre of Talassans who wreaked destruction on several villages between here and the Trade Way. Kelsey offered what help he could.
Of course he did, Nalia said smoothly. And any talk of familiarity and shared rooms in their wake could simply be restless gossip.
Yes, Merena bit out. It could.
Keto raised her index finger. But heh not to push the issue heh but, err, there was this uh, other, uhm thing. Yeah a thing
You know that Imoen returned to Candlekeep after we saw you last? Nalia asked.
Merena nodded reluctantly.
She heard tales as well, Nalia continued briskly. Of sirines south of the keeps walls, and of the redheaded sorcerer who dallied with them. Did Kelsey write any word of that?
Merena focused her gaze on the bottom of Ketos glass. No, she mumbled. Not specifically. Im sure theres a reasonable
Explanation! Of course there is! Keto laughed nervously. Gods, I love explanations! I could make them all the live-long day! Like uh, how the skunk got his stripes! And err, why weasels cant be trusted! And, yeah, uh the fable of the sorcerer and the jiggling nymphs! Its a natural pair! Err
How long has Kelsey been gone, Merena? Nalia asked gently.
Seven months, Merena answered faintly. I only expected three.
And when did he last write?
Not since he crossed the Amnish border. It was as if he ceased to exist. Merena frowned and scratched at an imaginary spot on the table top with her thumbnail. Ive sent messengers. Ive written every week. So he wont worry about how we are doing.
Nalias mouth twisted. I am sure he is thinking about you constantly.
Kelsey didnt want to go to the trade negotiations in Baldurs Gate, Merena protested. Not without us, but I thought Kylia was too young for the travel. Its a dangerous road, but I insisted that he go because they needed him in the North. I told him we would be fine on our own. I swore we would be fine. Her voice cracked, and Merena clenched her jaw, banishing the encroaching emotion. We
Nalia shook her head sadly and sighed. If you say youre fine
Keto boggled. Youre
Imoen tip-toed out of the bedroom, made a shhh gesture, moved a few stealthy paces, then clapped her hands. So! When are we hiking up to Baldurs Gate so you can wring ol Coltranes robes round his quadruple-timing neck?
Merena looked up from the table and met her sisters eyes. After breakfast.
Merena plucked a dandelion and blew softly. The blossoms scattered, a few misfits tickling the nose of the sleeping woman she stood near. Merena waited, watching as the strangers face twitched, and tried to consider her prey objectively. Was she prettier? What would her voice sound like? Had Kelsey truly found her attractive? Had he loved her? Merena shifted, leaning closer.
Nalia cleared her throat and called, You said you just wanted to talk, Merena.
Thats right, Merena agreed. To clarify a few things.
I see. Does this clarifying really demand your hunting knife at her throat?
It was a thought, Merena said. Im new at this angry wife business. Im experimenting.
Lay off, Nally, Imoen called. Sis is just getting warmed up. Shes saving the good stuff for Kelsey.
Kelsey? The stranger trilled awake with a smile, then flinched as she realized her predicament. ALARM! she yelped.
Nalia, Imoen and Keto moved to defend Merenas back as the camp scrambled awake.
Your alarm call is Alarm?! Keto sputtered. How lame is that?
If you leave, we have no need for violence, the leader said brashly. Find some other targets for your thievery, and we shall be merciful.
Mind her words! one of the companions called. You do not know who you are trifling with!
Oh, dont I? Merena mused. Keto?
Aye, Merena?
Who am I trifling with?
For starters, Keto said, the halfling is a thief from the Purple Hills, who goes by the handle Paragon. Her real name is Myrtle Blacktoes, and shes not really good at her job as far as I can tell, considering we just waltzed right into camp without a wiggle of awareness, and the only reason I know her identity is because I just lifted her diary. Interesting reading
Hey! That was locked! Myrtle yelped.
Whats the third rule of adventuring, Imoen? Keto asked, scratching her head. I really should have that bit memorized by now.
Imoen helped herself to the diary and began flipping intently through the pages. Finders keepers, and losers are horribly embarrassed?
Keto snapped her fingers. Thats the one!
Who else am I trifling with, Keto? Merena asked. This is most informative. She flexed her fingers about the knife hilt, giving her prisoner a cold smile. Im hanging on edge with the suspense.
The half-elf is Ffrella, a priestess of Chauntea. Keto paused for a dainty sip from her wine bottle. Thats not her real hair.
Ffrella shrieked.
I heard the story from her wigmaker back in Trademeet. Shes a secret pyromaniac. Singed herself bald in a field fire. Wow. Talk about your professional irony.
The half-elf snarled with rage. Lies!
Imoen tsked. Not according to Myrtles diary. Shame on you.
Ffrella reared her flail, a furnace in her eyes, but Nalia held her with a swift incantation. Whos next?
Just the one at the mercy of Merenas grip on that snazzy bone knife, Keto replied. She would be Talice Dysart, of the Esmeltaran Dysarts. The family made their fortune in construction, pretty easy when theres a boon in lakefront villa building. Talice, the eldest daughter, while adept at swinging a hammer, proved a disappointment to the family when she chose to seek her own fortune as an adventurer. Pickings have been slim, as evidenced by the monthly allowance the family sends by courier to keep her from starving.
Slim until lately, that is, Keto continued, what with routing the scourge of Keczulla and all. How many rubies does killing Talassans merit nowadays?
More than youre worth! Talice spat defiantly.
Whatever the bounty, I am sure Kelsey made an accurate ledger of it, Nalia observed.
Talices expression softened again. Kelsey? You know Kelsey? Have you seen him? He left so quickly Her gaze grew haughty. What would a hero like Kelsey have to do with a crew of scurrilous wenches like you?
Merenas mouth twisted. Keto?
Aye, Merena?
Would you like to inform Talice with whom
The lovely lady at your throat, Keto began, would be Merena: Legend of the Sword Coast, Protector of the Umar Hills, Savior of Suldenessar
I recognize you now, Talice said in awe. You were a hero of Trademeet! Kelsey showed me the statues. That was so brilliant! I always wanted a statue
Destroyer of Bhaals Essence, Mother of a Two Year-Old Keto paused for the money shot. And Wife of Kelsey Coltrane.
Talice tiled her head to the left. He was married? Huh.
Merena squinted dangerously. Did you think the letters were for his accountant?
I thought he was writing his sister!
Youre not that bright, are you? Merena grimaced at her thoughts. You needed Kelseys help something awful, didnt you? Theres no way your ragtag adventure groupies could take on a real Talassan threat and survive. I bet he did all the dangerous bits, and you just gobbled it up with a spoon.
Im not that dumb. Pretty savvy, is more like it. Youve gotta know. Youre the old ball-and-chain, Talice drawled. What magic that man could do with his hands! And then there were the spells
Merena choked off the womans reminiscing, tightening one hand around Talices windpipe. You arent that bright. All that sweet, careless exposition, and the only one who made a break at us was the bald pyromaniac. Youre not adventurers. Youre half-hearted thugs.
She traced a path with her knife in the air above Talices throat. Once upon a time, I would have peeled you like a grape without batting an eyelash. Murder was in my blood. She shrugged abruptly. Sure, I would have lamented the deed, maybe cried a little, prayed for calm and wisdom in the future, but, deep inside, it would have thrilled me to choke the life out of you, to tear you apart. Like my heart
Nalia moved forward. Merena, this isnt
You neednt worry, Nalia, Merena said derisively as she pushed Talice into the ground and took a pace back. Killing them wont help. Ive figured that out. Besides, the screaming would wake Kylia. Shes not going to nap on my back forever. Merena moved away another step, but paused. Just tell me. Why did he leave you?
Talice sat up and brushed the leaves from her cleavage. It was a silly argument. He didnt like how we split the loot. Do you know where to find him? she called after the departing women. I mean,
we can work it out
Gods, Myrtle said. You
Oh, shut it. Help me thaw Ffrella.
Last Edit: June 13, 2005, 07:21:19 PM by jcompton
Newt had always suspected that people who regularly used the word "community" were using it in a very specific sense that excluded him and everyone he knew.
--Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, "Good Omens"
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Posts: 1237
Glad Corvis Isn't Dead Club
Re: Bad Kelsey: The Challenge
Reply #1 on:
June 13, 2005, 01:06:49 AM »
Merena glanced ahead, where Keto allowed Kylia to chase her in haphazard circles. Am I doing the right thing?
You wanted to bring Kylia along, Nalia reminded her. I would have happily remained at the cabin with her.
I know, and I appreciate that you offered, but Merenas brow furrowed. It troubles Kylia that her father has been gone so long. Sometimes I think shes more difficult because she doesnt understand why he hasnt been at home. Sometimes, I think shes angry with me for being the one whos left behind.
That cant be true, Nalia argued. Shes only two. She couldnt reason so much into Kelseys absence. She placed a hand on Merenas arm and offered a comforting smile. She loves you.
Yes, but Im the boss. Always Boss, never Mommy. Merena gave a small, sad nod. But Im the one she trusts. Thats why I couldnt leave her behind, even though its dangerous, even though I dont know what Im going to say or do She rolled her shoulders in a circle, closing her eyes, as if she could will the tension away. I didnt think before. I didnt consider how an absent father might affect my child. Now that I understand, I couldnt do that to her knowingly. Not again.
Does that mean youre not planning on, well, when we locate Kelsey Nalia said carefully.
I dont know! Merena wailed. I meant what I said yesterday. Violence violence doesnt fill me like it used to. The bloodlust is gone, and I I almost miss it. It came with a fierce certainty that fed me. Not that Im not furious with him. I am. I want to scream. I want to cry
I wanna kill im! Imoen announced, lifting her attention from reading Myrtles diary. I know it hurts, Sis, but I gotta say it: you married a tramp. Imoen wrinkled her nose in disgust. Sure, he flirted with everything in the party that wore a skirt and Keto, too, but this!
What?! You never mentioned that to me! Merena said accusingly.
Imoen shrugged. You were too busy mooning over the guy to care.
Merena turned to Nalia. You knew?
Well he wanted to discuss pointers in using magic once over dinner. Nalia flushed. I thought he was being friendly! she added insistently. But the next time we spoke, it was, you have nice hands, Nalia, and you have lovely eyes, Nalia -- I just didnt know what to think!
You shouldnt have thought, Merena countered. You should have told me.
Ha! Imoen snorted. It wouldnt have done any good, what with you so intent on playing search and rescue with his tonsils.
I I Merena scowled. Youre such a brat. What does the diary say?
Kelsey is a very, very bad man. And a cheaper date than you. And, boy, its a wonder he got any sleep!
Youre not helping, Imoen, Nalia lectured. She doesnt need a blow by blow *ahem* of Kelseys perfidy.
Maybe I do, Merena countered. To scour the wound, or make me really livid, or make me anything than this this emotional ooze! She held out one hand, and Imoen passed her the journal. Slowly flipping the pages as they walked, she broke the silence with intermittent sounds of shock and sadness. Kelsey she moaned softly. Oh, Kelsey Merena pressed the open pages to her breast, her features stark with discovery. Youre absolutely right, Imoen. I married a slut!
She began ticking through the diarys confessions again. He even fooled around with Myrtle. He told her she was the perfect height. Merena let out a small cry. This is horrible. I can still see how it happened...
You can see how it happened?! No. No, you cant. Nalia shook her head in protest. Merena, I just dont think it will help anyone, especially you, to wallow in that that filth! Kelsey is a despicable bounder. Cant we leave it at that and move on?
Merena stubbornly tapped the page she was perusing. No, Nalia. Theres an interesting bit here about Kelsey leaving their group. He seems to have grown critical of them for not being very heroic. Just like I told Talice. She hugged a tiny satisfied smile to herself. My husband may be easy, but hes not dumb. It sounds like the final straw was the loot divvying. Kelsey wanted to give a lions share to the villagers and townspeople whod lost their homes in the Talassans rampage, and the greedy gals were having none of it. Merena winked conspiratorially at Nalia. What do you make of that?
Even despicable bounders get it right once in a while, Nalia said primly.
Uh, guys? Keto called back to them. I think youd better see this!
Merena broke into a sprint, jogged over the rise, then promptly tripped over her own feet at the view.
Kylia padded over to her mother and sternly rubbed Merenas forehead clean of a smear of grass. Boss, she whispered, pointing. Did you see the naked ladies?
Merena shook off the swirling dizzy lights dancing before her eyes. Hard to miss them, my lovely. She eased to her feet and took her daughters hand. Lets go say hello, shall we?
The trio of sirines stood in a semi-circle, their skin moist and shimmering as if theyd just emerged from the sea. Their hair rippled in waves about their shoulders, decorated with tiny seashells and flowers. Otherwise, they were unerringly, unequivocally, and spellbindingly starkers.
Hi. Merena struggled for a moment to retain her train of thought. She had difficulty keeping her eyes trained on their faces: their piquant noses, their delicate cheekbones, their mesmerizing eyes, their succulent lips Right. Hi. Sil, isnt it?
Greetings, godchild. Sil dipped her chin demurely, and the other nymphs shifted, one trailing lazy glyphs around her own navel, the other stretching her arms over her head with a happy sigh as she pushed her chest forward in prominent display. My sisters and I welcome you.
Oh, Im not a godchild anymore. Merena laughed nervously. That was just a phase.
The sirines tilted their heads curiously.
Teenage kind of phase, Merena chattered. I got over it. She tousled Kylias hair. This is my daughter, Kylia. Kylia, this is Sil. Mommy helped Sil chase naughty pirates away from her home many years ago.
Youre not wearing clothes. Kylia nodded sagely.
Dryads do not wear any clothes anymore, Sil announced. We have returned to the old ways. It was the suggestion of Kelsey, the sorcerer.
The sirine to her left jiggled and repeated in a dreamy voice, Kelsey.
Kelsey, the one on the right echoed.
Kelsey, Merena sighed.
Oh, yeah, Imoen observed. I can totally see how
The sirine on the left slinked forward and gently caressed Kylias cheek. I am Ven. What a scrumptious child. Have you brought her as a gift? She could be our handmaiden.
Aye, Keto said bemusedly, naked pulls the short straw for carrying. You need somebody with pockets.
Merena protested, tearing her senses away from the salty perfume of Vens hair to glower crossly at Keto. Were not giving away my daughter! Were just passing through. We stopped for a chat!
The sirine on the right fiddled with a lock of her hair, twirling it above one jutting nipple. Ven! Sil! She is upset! I sense conflict!
Calm yourself, Bes. All will be well. It is just the angry talk of clothed mortals, as Kelsey explained. Sil opened her arms in regal command. We will only speak with the naked. It is the new Dryad Law.
Yes, Bes echoed. Disrobe yourselves!
What? Merena gaped.
Talking is for the naked! Ven repeated.
I really think that is an improper suggestion, Nalia complained. Even for dryads. Surely sheer gossamer would be more tasteful.
Silence, clothed one!
Merena dropped her pack to the ground and began to untie the hide lacings on her jerkin. Maybe youd like to take Kylia on ahead to pick flowers, Nalia, while we uh, talk to the dryads?
Most definitely.
Ill go with them, Keto added. Theres probably not enough nudity in Faerûn to justify my chatterbox.
What say you, Imoen? Merena asked.
Naked-schmaked. Im staying, Imoen replied as she pulled off her boots. Heya, wouldnt it have been fun if Sir Keldorn was here? Ive really gotta make a map of this place
So Merena said as she shimmied out of her leggings. Here we are. All sisters, all nude. Tell me more about this Kelsey person and the angry talk of clothed mortals.
Oh, yes! Bes bounced. Let us tell her, sisters!
Yes! Ven clapped. Its a delicious tale!
Come, Sil commanded. We shall lounge and communicate at leisure.
The sirines led them to a grotto lined with kelp that was surprisingly soft. Imoen dropped to her knees, picking up one leaf and flipping it over to study the striation pattern. Ven settled beside her and offered her chest as a pillow. Imoen waved the leaf at her, shooing the nymph away. Nope, Im fine. Two breasts, all I need for the moment. Imoen smirked at Merena. Hey, ask her if talking must be lying down was another Coltrane brainstorm.
Cut it out, brat. Ill smack you, naked or not.
When last we met, Sil began, arching her back as she reposed on the bed of kelp, you witnessed our troubles with the seafaring mortals. You gave us assistance, but the methods resulted in fighting and death. She shuddered prettily. Such an unpleasant affair.
That did not cease the discord, understand, Bes continued as she idly stroked Merenas calf. Other men took their place, abusing our coastline with their pollution and criminal trade.
What were we to do? Ven fluttered her fingertips anxiously and began to knead Imoens shoulders for comfort. It was a vicious time. The violence never ended. There was only anger and bitterness as we battled over territory!
We were transforming into creatures of destruction, Sil said languidly. She flexed her hips and stretched a second time. We lived in fear that they would challenge our power. We came close to hating mortal men.
We didnt want to hate men, Bes assured them. They are such fragile creatures, so aggressive, so prone to the tide and sways of their urges. How easily they wander into conflict
Yes, men are upsetting creatures, but it would be unfair to persecute them, Ven said. They cannot help it that they were born flawed and vulnerable.
But to become like them, Sil finished, when we are capable of such beauty, strength and generosity that would be our unforgivable crime.
Kelsey reminded us of that. He saved us! Bes chirped.
Oh, yes! Ven gushed. He saved us!
Merena nodded knowingly. By suggesting you take your clothes off.
Exactly! Sil rolled to one side, propping herself on one elbow as her hair tumbled delightfully about her shoulders. Kelsey was extraordinary for a mortal man. He truly seemed to empathize with how we felt.
By suggesting you take your clothes off, Merena repeated.
Dont you see? Sil said plaintively. We had
the old ways. Nymphs used to enjoy frolicking naked across the countryside, luring mortals into carnal delights!
The world spun, years fled, and everything had changed, Bes explained with such sorrow, her eyes sparkled. Suddenly, being captured by a wizard and forced to become his concubine was branded a
thing. Suddenly, we were expected to protest incarcerations, fight our enemies, and, worst of all, cover our bodies with gossamer for the sake of some madness they call decency! We were supposed to feel
that mortal men desired us. We were supposed to rail against it!
But Kelsey fixed all that! Imoen pointed out cheerfully.
By suggesting you take your clothes off, Merena repeated.
Oh, yes, Bes said. We needed help identifying a peaceful method to coexist with mortal men again, and Kelsey showed us the way. He confessed he found it impossible to argue with a beautiful naked goddess.
Merena grunted. Yes, Ive heard that rumor before.
And he was correct! Sil said jubilantly. The pirates grew infinitely more docile and open to persuasion when we threw aside our garments. The company of mortal men became pleasurable again!
As peace and earthly delights returned to our lives, Ven continued, trailing her hands along Imoens bare arms before descending to tickle her stomach, we decided upon the Rule of Talking. Mortals cover themselves in barriers of cloth and metal and don their weapons it makes them harsh and fierce. Their personalities change when they unclothe.
That does it, Imoen giggled. Im definitely tricking Keldorn into a visit.
So Kelsey remained here a while, Merena concluded. To help you talk more effectively.
Oh, yes, Bes nodded. We talked a great deal with Kelsey. It was most pleasurable.
Sis. Imoen leaned over to whisper a warning in Merenas ear. If we talk to them much more, Im gonna to have to make Ven pancakes for breakfast.
Mmm I hear you, Merena replied in a quivery voice. Bes is doing something to my knees that implies a preponderance of vowels in our future.
So what are we gonna do?
Yes Sils lament broke into the sisters muddled deliberation. Kelsey might still be with us if it hadnt been for the arrival of the heiress.
Imoen and Merena straightened, cold-water focused, and chorused,
What heiress?!
Oh, she was terribly abused, Sil recalled. In her heart, you see. She traveled with a man, a most displeasing, disrespectful bard
Even when he was naked, Ven qualified.
Kelsey decided that she needed his help more than we did, Sil explained. We did not blame him for leaving; we understood. For all that Eldoth would talk, he did not have much of value to say. He went through the motions of the talking. We were not fooled. He had to be subdued in one way or another.
The heiress traveled with
?! Merena scrambled to her feet, gathering clothes to her chest as she padded out of the grotto. I hate her, hate her,
hate her
! Merena cursed as she stubbed a toe. Dammit! Hopping out of the grotto commenced. Stupid naked feet!
Imoen gathered her leathers as well, pausing to shake each nymphs hand in farewell. Dont mind her. Shes just having a fit of manly urges. Itll pass.
Return when you can, Sil said graciously. We will finish our conversation.
Bring your friends! Ven and Bes called.
Cook! Skie Silvershield called down the palatial stairs. Where are my cloudberries?! I am famished! She pouted at the continued lack of reply, tapping one slipper-clad foot impatiently as she tightened the feather-trimmed belt of her robe around her slender waist. Lazy servants! Why do I put up with them? They just dont care about my needs!
With an aggravated huff, Skie bustled down the stairs. As she turned on the landing, Skie noticed four figures waiting at the foot of the stairs. Ugh, Merena. What are you doing here? Her sulking expression resurfaced. I know we are acquaintances, but my guards should have turned you away, fleas and all. I am otherwise occupied today. Hmph!
Occupied with what, may I ask? Merena asked smoothly.
What an impertinent question! You you gatecrashers! Skie stomped two steps lower and shook a dainty fist. If you must know, she declared in a supercilious tone, I am studying Amnish trade markets.
In Calimshite silks? Nalia said, giving Skies haughty air a run for the gold.
Look, Skie huffed. I dont know half of you, but you all strike me as rough trade. Im very busy, and if you tarry, you are going to give me frown lines. Begone! At that moment, Skie caught a glimpse of Kylia peering around her mothers leg. Eek! Who brought a child in here? They are cesspools of stains and disease, you know. Dont let it near me!
Sweetie, Merena confided to her daughter. Daddys upstairs. Why dont you hunt him down? Aunt Immy and I will help, okay?
Daddy? Kylia considered this information seriously. Okay, Boss. She climbed up the stairs as fast as her little legs would toddle.
Keep it away! Skie shrieked, fleeing in the opposite direction and taking cover behind Keto. What have you done!? Ill have to have the place disinfected! Warded! Redecorated! A pause. Mmm!
Kylia, meanwhile, rustled through the hallways of the Silvershield Estate, her mother and aunt not far behind. Daddy! She tiptoed into an ostentatious sitting room. Peeking through the curtains into the arched vestibule, she whispered an awed, Daddy?
Daddy! Giving a squeal of triumph, Kylia bounded into the boudoir with a surge of excitement. Youre here! We found you! Youre found! The little girl scurried onto the bed and smothered her father in an exuberant hug, which Kelsey returned with bemused and awkward surprise.
Im glad to see you, too, kiddo. Wow. Youve grown faster than the import duties on flax. He grinned and bundled her into a second enthusiastic hug. Ive missed you so
After a few patient moments, Kylia pushed at Kelseys arms and sat back on her heels. Im big now, she declared as she studied her father critically. Her gaze narrowed on his bare chest. She gradually began to inch off the mattress, her round face creasing into a frown, then misery. Finally, the child wailed her pathos and jumped off the bed. No! She flung her small body at her mother, who watched surreptitiously from the doorway. NOOO!!
Mommy! Kylia sobbed. Daddys been talking to a dryad!
Kelsey shuffled uncomfortably, wrapped the bed sheet around his waist, and began a desperate search for his robe. Oh, gosh. Whered she find out about
Merena gasped in wonder, squeezing her daughter tightly. Who cares? She called me Mommy! Merena laughed and swooped her daughter off the ground, twirling her in a circle. She never calls me that! They bobbed to a dizzy stop, and Merena pointed matter-of-factly at her disheveled husband. Now youre really in trouble! Ha!
Merena. Kelsey paused, drank in the sight of his wife for a stunned minute, then cleared his throat, looking stoically penitent. Honey, I know youre probably very upset about now, and youve a right to be, believe me! He grimaced. That was probably the wrong way to say that, wasnt it?
Merena smiled enigmatically. Imoen why dont you take Kylia downstairs? Let her play with Skie while I have a talk with my husband. Im sure that will be fun for everyone.
Imoen offered a snappy salute. Gotcha, Sis! She tacked on a murmured, You want I should leave you anything sharp?
Thank you, Imoen, but Ive got my own.
Kelsey hunted under the chairs and behind the vanity in between aiming wary looks at his serenely smiling wife. He found his robes stuffed between a pair of suspiciously squashed cushions littering the rug. Great. Im surpassing myself this time, he muttered, dragging the fabric roughly over his head.
No, no, no! Merena chided. What do you think youre doing?
Im getting dressed, Kelsey said morosely, so we can have it out.
Oh, no, youre not.
Kelsey waved one arm futilely. We have to talk, argue, whatever! Merena, he said slowly. You must be angry, but Im not going to come to blows over this. However we end, I wont be a part of that. So, crush my skull if it will make you feel better. Cover me in honey and leave me on a hill of fire ants - I wont defend myself.
Oh, Kelsey. Merena shook her head and unsheathed her hunting knife. Youre forgetting the rules.
So what happens next?
I'll be adding links to the different endings posted on the board, starting with:
The End of Bons
- Shut up and talk.
The End of Ghreyfain
- 4 out of 5 cats and retired vaudevillians prefer it!
The End of jcompton
- No, sorry, not what you were hoping for.
The End of alasafan (nevar!!1)
- OMG!!!111 Cunning + charm!
The End of Eral
- Never trust a salesman.
The End of Earnest Yetbadd
- Everyone should try Tutu. Really!
- Your daily dose of hate!
The Farcical End of jcompton
- Too much of a good thing.
The End of Queen Akasha
- Just a small prick...
The End of Celissa
- The essence of an ending.
Last Edit: September 22, 2005, 09:47:28 PM by Bons
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The latest quarterly Healthcare Transparency Index from health education and engagement platform vendor Change Healthcare shows nine medical procedures with high costs and price variances as high as 796 percent. Even within a given network, the organization says charges for pharmacy, medical and dental services often vary by more than 300 percent.
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Jon is shocked to learn that guns can be purchased over the Internet, China watches the Daily Show, and Ken Burns explains how film is like a polygraph. (1:01)
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This indeed is an incredibly important aspect to the mountains .... Where might I find the A-1, top-notch, ultimate of ultimate climbing rewards --- THE hot springs?
Good morning Mr. Mark- It all depends on how you wish proceed. Like our sport, do you want to start easy and work you way up; or would you rather jump right into the deep end and find yourself in the middle of a nudist colony that deceptively labels itself as "clothing optional" (hint: Valley View)? I would submit that the best overall natural experience, including serious effort as in LONG hikes would be Conundrum hot springs up by Maroon Bells (8 miles), and Rainbow hot springs on Wolf Creek Pass, (again another 8-10 miles). As for developed ones that you pay for, I think its a tie between Strawberry Park in Steamboat and the main resort in Pagosa Springs. Be aware that when you see clothing optional on the sign going in that you will at least be sharing the pool with nekkid old hippies, or worse, freaky nudists with things that should never be pierced.
I once paddled the Black Canyon NV, CO River, by canoe. My then girlfriend and I rented a canoe, put it at the Hoover Dam, then paddled down the river for ~12 leisurely miles while camping one night along the way. Did some hiking and climbing/scrambling on fixed ropes up the canyons. Some of the hot springs are remote with no crowds, and others were rather sociable with old nude ladies (puke). Awesome trip!!! Highly recommend it to anybody traveling near Vegas/ Lake Mead. www.squidoo.com/black-canyon-canoe-trip-colorado-river
Hi Marky Mark. Here is a site that I like to use: www.soak.net/ You can pick your state on the left. A lot of these are not commercial. Enjoy!
I've hit some nice ones, the one on the East side of the San Luis valley below the Crestones is pretty nice. Once on a raft trip on the Rio Grande in Northern New Mexico, we stopped and soaked and stoked and smoked in the hot springs that was used in the famous hot springs scene in Easy Rider. Mt Princeton is great if you're looking for something with more amenities. There's always Strawberry in Steamboat......I better stop before start to shed my clothes and jump in a sink full of hot water here at work!
Orvis in Ridgeway are great. They even have a campgroud. As for primitive but with out the walk is Penny hot springs below Marble right on the Crystal river. Right now they're underwater with the runoff going on.
yes, love the pea gravel, quiet, funky development of Orvis; it's hard to beat that one.
Orvis #1 for quality of water, atmosphere, and surroundings... Not way back in there, the road is nearby, but they have done a tremendous job for a commercial soaking.......


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Christopher Lee Pettiet (February 12, 1976 – April 12, 2000) was an American television and film actor best known for his role as Jesse James in the Western TV series The Young Riders and as Zach Crandell in the cult comedy film Don't Tell Mom the Babysitter's Dead (1991).
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The Deal Wizard avoids Claire's like the plague. His wife and daughter like it though. There must be good stuff in there somewhere. Maybe like these crazy shoes.
Yes, just like your always wanted... a pair of fuzzy boots. You get to choose between pink, leopard or even neon for only $3.49. There are limited sizes available and you'll have to pay $6+ for shipping. Still, that's a good deal for any women's boot.
This is an online deal only, good until sellout.
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Ace Attorney Apollo Justice Screenshots for DSOn: DS
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Latest Articles for Ace Attorney Apollo Justice
All-female Japanese theatre group to produce 'Ace Attorney 3' stage show
Capcom has announced that an all-female Japanese musical theatre company will produce the third entry of the Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney live stage show in January 2013.
Professor Layton vs Ace Attorney coming to Europe in December?
Cross your fingers, touch wood and give your bunny a foot massage: it looks like Professor Layton vs Ace Attorney could be heading to Europe this December.
Capcom confirms Ace Attorney film
Live-action Phoenix Wright flick to hit Japanese cinemas next year.
Is Takashi Miike directing an Ace Attorney movie?
O sinister gods of film and gaming, please let it be true!


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Home > Archives for Austin Hironaka
Superpark 17 recently went down at Mt Bachelor in Oregon and our homie Jake Hanson was there with the Coal team as they got busy hitting all the features Seven Springs built. Click the jump for a look at his rad gallery of photos featuring Austen Sweetin, Austin Hironaka and more.
Japmob shredder Austin Hironaka gets the Creative treatment from Coal is this short that drops today to launch their new Spring collection. Check him whip around Seattle on his BMX, meet his dad and get into some some auto tuning, not the hip hop kind.
Japanese/American shredder Austin Hironaka just dropped this "remix" of all of his 2011 parts mashed up into one banging Japmob handroll. The kid slays shit, can't wait to see what he's got for 2012.
Our homie Jake Hanson recently caught up with Ride pro Austin Hironaka to talk about snowboarding, Honda's, filming, and much more. Hit the jump to read the interview and check out his dope Lego rolling table.


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Robinson's Plumbing And Drain
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Over 90% Of Our Customers Have Used Robinson's Plumbing And Drain Before. Customer Service Is Our #1 Goal.
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[For Health and Beauty]
Recommended use or purpose:
- Help maintaining skin and hair health
- Rich in natural antioxidants
Dosage form:Capsule
Medicinal ingredients:
|D-Pantothenic acid
|Folic acid
|Vitamin B1
|Niacin (non flash)
|Vitamin 12
|Ch-OSA (Silicon derivative)
|Vitamin A
|Vitamin B2
|Vitamin B6
|Polyunsaturated fatty acids
|Vitamin C
|Green tea extract Polyphenols
|Vitamin D
|Soy isoflavons
|Vitamin E
|Coenzyme Q10
Original brand:Prestige Nutrition
Product credential: Formulated by Quality Alliance International
GliSODin® (Superoxide dismutase/Gliadin complex) is made from the combination of a SOD extracted from melon (Cucumis melo) as the active ingredient and wheat (Triticum vulgare) gliadin as the carrier which protects the enzyme from breaking down against the effects of the stomach acid.
The powerful natural antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) acts at the very source of the chain reaction which results in the production of reactive oxygen species; it constitutes therefore the first body guard line and the main defense mechanism against free radicals. Several studies have confirmed the preservation of the antioxidant activity of the SOD enzyme following oral consumption; in addition anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties have also been attributed. GliSODin® is deemed as an effective oral UV-protective supplement according to recent clinical trials recently conducted (2005).
GliSODin® is the first body guard line and the main defense mechanism against free radicals. This powerful antioxidant promotes anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory action. It is a clinically proven oral UV-protective supplement.
Beta-carotene is considered a conditionally essential nutrient. It is metabolized tovitamin A (retinol) in the body and has been found to possess antioxidant activity. It appears to exert immunomodulatory, anticarcinogenic and antiatherogenic activities as well.
Beta-carotene has been found to inhibit the growth of some malignant cells. Several observational epidemiological studies have shown an inverse association between dietary beta-carotene intake and certain types of cancer such as prostate cancer and lung cancer. Beta-carotene supplements have significantly inhibited oral leucoplakia as well as other precancerous lesions including buccal cell micronuclei in subjects at risk of oral cancer.
Flower pollen extracts
Flower pollen extracts as been widely studied in a variety of clinical applications as a result of its properties as antioxidant. It is therefore an indicated treatment in the fight against free radicals which have been shown to cause cellular destruction. After ingestion, antioxidants neutralize and destroy free radicals helping thus detoxify and protect the body. The evidence suggests that flower pollen extracts may have an enhancing effect of the immune system and immunity in addition to an anti-inflammatory action.
Silicon is a key element in this combination product positively affecting the Skin and Integumentary System. It is known that chronic exposure of the skin to sunlight causes damage to the underlying connective tissue with a loss of elasticity and firmness. Silicon derived compounds have been suggested to have beneficial effects on skin and similar components of the integumentary system such as hair and nails. Recent studies showed that the ingestion of silicon supplements may improve the thickness of the dermis surface and skin mechanical properties as well as brittleness of hair and nails.
Polyunsaturated and unsaturated fatty acids
Polyunsaturated and unsaturated fatty acids have been found to exhibit beneficial effects on a variety of skin conditions such as erythema and psoriasis. It has been suggested that an increase in the dietary intake of fish oil would be a useful treatment to counteract the exaggerated inflammation in psoriasis. Unsaturated acids on the other hand have been shown to prevent growth bacteria on the skin and contribute to skin acidity. High intake of monounsaturated fat appears to be negatively associated with photoaging.


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The 15th Amendment to the US Constitution was ratified on February 3, 1870 during Reconstruction. Along with the 13th amendment and the 14th amendment, it is one of the three Reconstruction amendments.
Text of the 15th Amendment
Section 1.
The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.
Section. 2.
The Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.


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HIV/AIDS: Is it time for universal screening?
From the June ACP Observer, copyright © 2005 by the American College of Physicians.
By Deborah Gesensway
SAN FRANCISCO—Considering how effective HIV antiretroviral therapy has become, and how much longer patients can live if they start regimens early, one of the nation's experts on HIV care now recommends that internists consider screening all their patients—even senior citizens—for the disease.
"We are not doing a very good job of diagnosing them early," College Regent Merle A. Sande, MACP, told attendees at an Annual Session course on HIV-infection issues for internists. Dr. Sande, who is professor and internal medicine program director at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, is also president of the Academic Alliance Foundation for AIDS Care and Prevention in Africa, a program that brings North American HIV/AIDS experts to care for patients in Uganda. Dr. Sande said only 7% of acute HIV patients in the United States are correctly diagnosed during their first clinic visit.
According to Merle A. Sande, MACP, almost one-third of HIV-positive Americans do not know they are infected.
And HIV experts have learned how important it is to start antiretroviral treatment before CD4 counts get too low (greater than 200). If counts are allowed to drop too low and patients end up with a higher "viral set point" following the first acute HIV infection, they are likely to have a worse long-term prognosis.
"The set point determines how long you will remain asymptomatic," Dr. Sande said.
The case for universal screening
Dr. Sande argues for universal voluntary screening not only because effective treatments are now available but also because the medical community is learning more about HIV's prevalence. In this country, the overall incidence is 0.5% of the population. But health officials claim that about 30% of the 950,000 Americans who are HIV-positive do not know it.
Acute HIV should be considered in any patient who presents with a mononucleosis-like syndrome with symptoms of sore throat, malaise, fatigue, lethargy, low grade fever and anorexia. These patients typically have pharyngitis with enlarged tonsils, adenopathy or (in about 50%) a nonspecific macular-papular rash, particularly over the trunk.
While many may have atypical lymphocytosis, the Monospot and Heterophile tests will be negative. While the diagnosis is more likely to come to mind in a patient with high risk behavior, it should be considered in all persons presenting with this mononucleosis-like syndrome, but with negative diagnostic tests for mononucleosis.
The diagnosis can be established with a P24 antigen test or an HIV viral load test. It is important to remember that false positives may occur, particularly if the viral load is low, in the 3,000 to 5,000 range. Typically the viral loads will be in the 100,000 to 1 million level per millimeter-cubed range. The antibody tests to HIV (ELISA and Western Blot) will typically be negative early in the infection and prior to seroconversion.
"Acute HIV may account for 60%-80% of all transmission," he said. "That's worth remembering" when internists consider what to recommend to frightened patients who think they may have been exposed.
To recommend the correct post-exposure prophylaxis, internists faced with worried patients need to understand what the medical community now knows about transmission.
"You want to find out about the source patient," Dr. Sande said. If the person suspected of passing the virus along has HIV but is not in the acute phase or in end-stage AIDS, it is significantly less likely that the source patient transmitted the disease.
Knowing what drug regimen that source patient may be on is helpful too, because it can give physicians clues about which prophylactic therapy to recommend—and it can answer concerns about resistance.
Doctors should also make recommendations about prophylaxis depending on what they learn about the method of suspected transmission. A hollow-bore needle stick, for example, is more likely to transmit HIV than a stick with any other type of needle, such as a suture needle. The Jan. 21, 2005, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report contains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's updated antiretroviral postexposure prophylaxis recommendations.
Managing a chronic disease
Internists also need to learn more about long-term HIV/AIDS care. Dr. Sande predicted that in the not-so-distant future, the care of patients living for decades with the disease will become the bailiwick of general internal medicine.
"In the West, HIV is becoming a chronic disease like diabetes," he said. And just like taking care of diabetic patients, physicians need to figure out ways to improve patient compliance with long-term HIV antiretroviral treatments and to understand those therapies' complications. (For a look at changes in AIDS' diagnoses, see "AIDS diagnoses."
Studies of HIV patients in the United States have found that they take only between 60% and 80% of prescribed medications, while evidence shows they need to take nearly all of them to derive the maximum possible benefits, he said.
Adherence will likely improve when clinicians eventually reduce the number of daily pills that patients take. In Dr. Sande's Ugandan clinic, for instance, patients take fewer daily drugs than patients do here, where most patients currently follow a triple drug regimen that requires taking one pill two times a day.
"One pill once a day is better," Dr. Sande said. "We have that to look forward to."
Another important factor is managing the complications of therapy, particularly because the drugs now prolonging life can be "extremely toxic."
For example, he said, protease inhibitor-type drugs and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors can have a different effect on the hypercholesterolemia that some patients develop. Doctors are now learning, he said, that HIV/AIDS patients who develop lipid disorders or insulin resistance must be managed like other patients with those problems, taking into account the difficulty of adding more drugs to an already complicated regimen.
Internists also need to be aware that many HIV-positive patients are also infected with hepatitis C—and they may be depressed.
Because of complicated regimens, specialists have provided HIV care over the past decade, with the best care probably coming from those who work with teams that include clinical pharmacists and counselors. The team approach will likely continue to be optimal, with an added role for internists providing chronic HIV care, he said.
And that care will be time-consuming. "The counseling required is incredible," he explained. "You can't just take 15 minutes with a new AIDS patient."
Deborah Gesensway is a freelance health care writer in Toronto.
The information included herein should never be used as a substitute for clinical judgment and does not represent an official position of ACP.
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Sheldon Ocker, in Saturday's article , again references Wedge's disappointment and disdain with the quality of the team's offensive approach in Thursday's win.
''You have to pull yourself back and assess things, maybe talk to the coaches,'' Wedge said.
''Last night, I got the hell out of here,'' he said.
When things aren't going smoothly, Wedge makes sure to leave his anger at Progressive Field and have some idea how he will initiate corrective measures the next day.
''That's what I did last night,'' he said. ''I sorted it out, so when my head hit the pillow I would have some clarity when I woke up. I'm a big believer in separating (from one game to the next). I have my moments, but I try to keep those private.''
It seems like Wedge here is offering an explanation for his anger from the post-game comments after Thursday's game. At first, when I read some of those quotes on Friday, I just skimmed through and couldn't figure out why he'd choose to react this way - through the media after a victory. After all, I was just glad that they won, Blake's 4 strikeout performance be damned. So, I went back to Friday's paper and the quotes from directly after the game. Here's the set that drew the most reaction from us at LGT:
''I wasn't happy with our at-bats tonight,'' Wedge said. ''Our at-bats have to get better. We have to stick our nose in there with two strikes [and not be timid]. We have to concentrate and be disciplined every at-bat.''
Wedge's voice rose as he continued: ''That's the only way we've done it in the past, and that's the way we need to do it now. It's not OK to do it one day and not the next or for one guy to do it and the next guy not to. I try to be as positive as I can, but it's time for us to turn the corner.''
Seems like a true, non-premeditated reaction, I think. And, it really shows his frustration with the state of the offense (as further evidenced by line-up changes, etc.).
Some thoughts/questions before I completely lose my train of thought:
-Can Wedge's post-game comments/anger be seen as anything more than venting? Was he '"pulling a Leyland" and using the media as a source of motivation/way of calling out particular players? Was this an out-of-character moment for Wedge?
-Could it be that Wedge, in his post-game comments, was directly calling out everyone's favorite Shocker, the Beard? And, might this finally be seen as a sign that Blake has been put on notice, so to speak? Was the method behind his madness?
-Or, alternatively, did Wedge wake up on Friday, realize that he may have been too raw in his comments after the game and decide to explain his reactions, diffusing the tension that they may have caused?
-Or, much ado about nothing?


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Lubbock Mayor Tom Martin called a Special City Council Meeting Wednesday, at Mae Simmons Park. He says he did it, because he believed there would be a quorum of council members showing up for the unveiling of a new statue.
"The Harvest" is a bronze sculpture by Eddie Dixon, in honor of American Indians. He says it depicts an Indian woman holding an ear of corn, and thanking God for a good harvest.
The canyon below, now filled with water and part of the city's Canyon Lakes System, is the site of a battle between Buffalo Soldiers and Comanche Indians in 1877.
The sculpture was designated by Civic Lubbock, Inc., as their Centennial Project, and is a joint project with the City of Lubbock. The project is also made possible in part by a grant from the CH Foundation and the Lubbock Area Foundation - Sybil B. Harrington Endowment for the Arts.
Mae Simmons Park is located at East 19th Street and Canyon Lake Drive. It was the site of a battle in 1877, between Buffalo soldiers and Comanche Indians.
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Energy Density is Key
When it comes to power, density is the key. Energy density. The reason that solar power, wind power, and ethanol are so expensive is that they are derived from very diffuse energy sources. It takes a lot of energy collectors such as solar cells, wind turbines, or corn stalks covering many square miles of land to produce the same amount of power that traditional coal, natural gas, or nuclear plants can on just a few acres.
Each of these alternative energy sources is based on mature technology. Agriculture and fermentation have their roots in prehistory, windmills date back at least to 65 B.C., the photovoltaic effect was discovered in 1839. Yet nowhere in the world are these technologies serving as primary energy sources without significant government subsidies. While incremental improvements can be expected, what is needed for them to become viable is an order of magnitude increase in productivity. As old and as well-researched as the technologies are, such improvements are possible but unlikely. As significant future energy sources these technologies are dead ends, which is why the government, and not the private sector, is funding them.
Industry is more than willing to risk research dollars on technologies that show real promise, but it is not willing to flush shareholder money down a rat hole. Politicians, however, operate from different incentives. When a crisis, real or imagined, makes headlines, they want voters to see them doing "something" about it, and they must move quickly because election cycles and constituent attention spans are short. Funding long-term research in promising technologies is not sufficient to meet politicians' needs. Solar panels, wind turbines, and ethanol refineries are all current technology, and can be erected quickly with fanfare and photo-ops. By the time these alternative power sources prove to be financial and, possibly, environmental busts, the politicians will have been reelected and voters' attention will have shifted to the next crisis.
Another benefit of subsidizing "shovel ready" solutions is that existing technologies have existing supporters who can provide campaign funds. Such supporters, however, constitute a well-financed "status quo" that will make government funding, once started, difficult to end. For example, even though corn-based ethanol has driven up food and fuel prices, increased auto emissions, raised atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations (by causing additional acreage to be tilled), and possibly resulted in net energy losses, the government is still subsidizing the industry and still requiring that the fuel be added to gasoline.
Wind energy, for its part, has been "just a few years away" from being economically competitive with conventional power for at least the last 25 years, and this will not change any time soon. The Energy Information Agency predicts that in 2016 wind power will still be 49% to 77% more expensive than electricity from either coal or natural gas. Furthermore, because wind turbines work only when the wind blows, wind farms cannot replace conventional plants. Backup power from conventional sources, usually gas turbines, must be ready to come on line the moment the wind fails. Despite these fundamental problems, subsidies continue to flow thanks to an entrenched lobby.
By contrast, consider the significant oil industry investments in researching biofuels made from algae. Unlike ethanol, biofuels are chemically similar to fuel made from petroleum and, like petroleum-based fuels, have a significantly higher energy content than does ethanol. Biofuels can also be handled by current fuel distribution systems and can be burned in today's vehicles.
Algae can be grown in brackish water on desert land and, with today's technology, can produce over 2,000 gallons of fuel per acre each year. This compares favorably with the approximately 250 gallons of ethanol that can be produced from an acre of corn – a ratio of 8 to 1. Accounting for the differences in BTU content, the ratio jumps to over 12 to 1. It may even be possible to boost productivity to 100,000 gallons per acre per year, raising algae's potential to over 600 times that of corn-based ethanol!
Biofuels are carbon neutral because the carbon dioxide released when they are burned is first extracted from the atmosphere by the algae. Unlike burning petroleum-based fuels, then, burning biofuels will not result in a net increase in atmospheric CO2 levels.
With algae's vast potential, it is easy to understand why private industry is interested, and why no government subsidies are needed to encourage investment. Moreover, if algae-based fuels do not prove viable, the companies now researching them will have no "status quo" problems with ending their investments and shifting scarce resources to more promising technologies – where "promise" is measured in density.
This piece originally appeared in The Freeman (January/February 2010). Mr. Fulmer is co-author (with Robert Bradley) of Energy: The Master Resource (Kendall/Hunt, 2004).
19 comments
- 1 steve { 04.03.10 at 5:54 am }
Gee, too bad you didn't consider the costs of the pollution of the fossil fuels that you give as examples. Then maybe wind could compete with coal.
- 2 Matthew Sinclair { 04.03.10 at 7:25 am }
Great post. I really like the simple, sharp explanation at the beginning; a really strong analysis of the fundamentals.
- 3 Jon Boone { 04.03.10 at 9:31 am }
Even with the pollution externalities factored in, wind couldn't begin to carry coal's bat and glove. With wind, it's not just its vaporous energy density that is problematic; it's the relentless variability, which must be continuously infilled with, mainly, more energy dense fossil fuels, thus reducing the externality gap to virtually nothing.
What is it with people who continue to compare wind with conventional generation, not understanding that such a metric is like comparing a fish to a bicycle?
- 4 Levi { 04.03.10 at 11:13 am }
50% or so more expensive is really not all that expensive, and many people can afford it. Probably a bigger problem is the lack of infrastructure, both to generate the power and to use it for transportation. Problems with variability can be solved with overlapping technology such as solar, wind, tide, or whatever. Maybe in a few years, once all-electric cars have some public exposure, this problem will look a little different.
- 6 chris y { 04.03.10 at 4:34 pm }
The 100,000 gallons/acre/year claim for biofuels derived from algae is specious nonsense. Energy efficiency of photosynthesis and typical solar insolation averaged over a year in the southwest U.S. could potentially provide 8000 gallons/acre/year. Production costs today are $100/gallon. Future production cost estimates are pure WAGs. Large scale demonstration plants are still a far-off dream. But hey, algae biofuel sure does attract venture funding!
- 7 Jon Boone { 04.03.10 at 5:20 pm }
"Problems with variability can be solved with overlapping technology such as solar, wind, tide, or whatever."
Solving problems of variability with–uh–more variability is a pitch perfect slogan for our times….
- 8 Tom Stacy { 04.03.10 at 7:34 pm }
"Industry is more than willing to risk research dollars on technologies that show real promise, but it is not willing to flush shareholder money down a rat hole."
Unfortunately, this is not as true as it used to be. With government offering up "profit insurance policies" for the unprofitable, why would the smart money invest in any technology without similar assurances? I am afraid our government's willingness to punish the most affordable and insure the profitability of the unaffordable has neutralized most free market investment for now. An exception is reactive power whose margins and utilization increase with the use of more intermittent resources like wind and solar.
- 10 Jon Boone { 04.04.10 at 10:28 am }
And nothing seems to demonstrate Tom Stacey's point better than the "commitment" that GE, Siemens, AES, BP, FL&L, among others, have made to "renewables" like wind technology. The warped synergy is perversely poetic. These companies invest in wind for government-insured tax avoidance, providing dysfunctional energy service and generating unmerited public relations fodder. The taxes not paid mean that taxpayers must pay more or that they will receive diminished services.
Il buco di topo (the hole of the rat) uber alles.
- 11 Donald Hertzmark { 04.04.10 at 11:13 am }
Good post. Two points: (i) the wind backup situation is sometimes even worse than you (we) think – in at least one state (CO) wind is backed up by cycling coal-fired plants – the worst of both worlds with regard to emissions and fuel use; (ii) your post is a concise practical restatement of the second law of thermodynamics – to obtain work from a low quality energy source one needs an infinitely large heat exchanger. Substitute, wind farm, solar array, Tx system for heat exchanger and you get the idea. It is never a good plan to fight the second law.
- 12 Rick Row { 04.12.10 at 4:34 pm }
I'm having trouble getting excited about algae and its biofuel. Converting your numbers into watts per square meter, I got 2.13 watts/sq. meter, which compares unfavorably with concentrating solar power that generates about 15 watts/sq.meter (David MacKay's number on page 177 of 'Sustainability-Without the Hot Air').
In case my arithmetic was poor, I used the following conversion factors:
1 acre = 4047 square meter
1,056 joule = 1 Btu
31,536,000 seconds = 1 year
1 watt = 1 joule/second
You're going to have to run the respective capital and operating costs to convince me that algae biofuel would be a better deal than concentrating solar power electricity for an energy source out in the desert.
- 14 Densidad de energía es la clave { 04.14.10 at 7:48 pm }
[...] Cuando se llega al poder, la densidad es la clave. Densidad de energía. La razón por la que la energía solar, energía eólica y el etanol son tan caros es que son derivados de fuentes de energía muy difusa. Se necesita una gran cantidad de colectores de energía, como células solares, turbinas de viento, o tallos de maíz que abarca muchos kilómetros cuadrados de tierra [. . . ] URL del artículo original http://www.masterresource.org/2010/04/energy-density-is-key/ [...]
- 15 jsm { 05.06.10 at 3:05 pm }
there are some good points here.
but to say that pollution externalities have been priced into coal is either ignorant or dishonest. the coal industry has managed through substantial funding to reduce any pollution controls to a bare minimum. "mountaintop restoration?" are you kidding? does the mountain look the same as before and house diverse ecosystem? hardly. there is some "coal scrubbing" going on, but a significant percentage of coal plants in operation are grandfathered and don't have to bother with such regulations. the ones that do have huge toxic sludge pits whose remediation is suspect as best. and certainly there is no co2 priced into the costs of coal.
coal is incredibly dirty business and "clean coal" is really not cleaner either. comparing wind to coal is indeed like comparing fish to a bicycle.
- 16 The Energy Density Problem « Stall Talk { 06.08.10 at 6:01 am }
[...] Here is an article that lays it out nicely. [...]
- 17 C4P { 11.01.10 at 11:13 pm }
It's not just the energy density that matters, this analysis just gives a part of the picture, and energy density by no means "the key". You also need to deal with the quality of energy. When you are coming from any source such as hydrocarbon, the amount of energy which you can extract will be limited by the Carnot efficiency. So has anyone really calculated how much energy you have to live with releasing to the atmosphere, no matter what you do in a coal powered plant and how in-efficient it is? Or that only 2% of energy produced by gasoline is actually used in transporting me from point a to point b? What use is the energy density if there is a limit to what we can extract? http://www.carbon4profit.com
- 18 Phil Bongard { 11.04.10 at 8:20 pm }
The appropriate hope to place in algae is closed system photo-bioreactor technology that can plug out an easy 15,000gal/acre/year….that number has been tested and proven as a safe projection….that still makes algae based biofuel much more promising than using our food supply as gas, and it is much more efficient per acre per year anyways. So why not put the money into it now? Its perfect timing. plug them into CO2 outputs on power plants…there is some more energy…
- 19 Steve Stillwater { 02.06.11 at 9:02 pm }
Great post, showing why fossil fuels are so difficult to replace at reasonable cost. They are, in fact, concentrated sources of energy, relatively easy to store, transport, and use.
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SMNewsNet.com was live on the scene from a commercial fire at the Wal-Mart in California, Md and uploaded live pictures and video from the scene. We are the only local news site in Southern Maryland that delivers LIVE coverage as it happens to keep you in the know! Wal-Mart in California, MD had a small fire in...
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Lost Note Theater to Stage CARNIVAL! at Strawdog, 3/22-29
Lost Note Theater Company, dedicated to presenting concert readings of obscure and forgotten musicals, is pleased to present CARNIVAL! with music and lyrics by Bob Merrill, book by Michael Stewart, based on material by Helen Deutsch, directed by Stephen Murray and musical direction by Charlotte Rivard-Hoster. CARNIVAL! will play three performances only March 22 - March 29, 2014 at Strawdog Theatre Company's Hugen Hall, 3829 N. Broadway in Chicago. Tickets are currently on sale at brownpapertickets.com. Last season, Lost Note Theater Company, presented its hit inaugural production, I Can Get It For You Wholesale.
CARNIVAL! will feature Jeffrey Gitelle, Rachel Klippel, Paul G. Miller, Amanda Newman, Annie Passanisi, Brian Rooney and Ed Rutherford.
CARNIVAL! is a 1961 musical based on the 1953 movie Lili and Paul Gallico's novella "Love of Seven Dolls." When Lili, a sheltered orphan, runs off with the Cirque de Paris her romantic fantasies are challenged by a seedy reality. She soon finds herself wooed by a lecherous magician, a troupe of friendly puppets and their unseen puppeteer. The score includes "Her Face," "Mira" and "Love Makes the World Go Round."
Additional production credits for CARNIVAL! include Amanda Newman (choreography), Sean Ewert (puppet consultant), Brett Schneider (magic consultant), Bethany Schrader (stage manager) and Paul G. Miller (artistic producer).


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Ja Triathlon set for Nov 9-11
THE fifth staging of the Jamaica Triathlon Multi-Sports Weekend will get underway on November 9-11 at Iberostar Hotel, Montego Bay.
Organisers Entertain Jamaica is hoping local athletes will come out in their hundreds, repeating last year when for the first time many events were won by non-overseas participants.
Wards Power Tools owner Howard Ward captured the Duathlon, ahead of Jamaican cyclist Dhalia Duhaney, while Bobby Barnes clinched the Sprint Distance.
A new feature in next month's event, one of the most sought-after endurance sport in the Caribbean, would be the placing of coconut men at aid stations along the course, further details of which will be announced tomorrow.
"As the athletes pass the aid stations, they will be able to drink coconut water from freshly chopped coconuts, as well as water and energy drinks," explained the organisers.
The Corporate 5K walk/run challenge which was well-received last year, will now include a 10k run in accordance with suggestions. Maximum number of participants for the 5k/10k run is 300 and 150 walkers.
"We would love to see corporate companies and everyone
else to come on down to Iberostar Hotel and participate in the Corporate 5k/10k Walk- Run Challenge," said Rayne Russell, event co-ordinator.
"The course is very easy, everything happens at Iberostar, and we just want everyone to come out and walk or run for fun, for fitness and for charity."
The triathlon weekend will also feature the Ocean Spray Wata Schools Challenge Workshop, Kids Triathlon, Olympic Distance course which includes 1.5k swim, 40k bike, 10k run.
There will also be the sprint distance, 0.8k swim, 20k bike, and 5k run; a duathlon, sprint relay, and pasta party. The Kids Triathlon is for children 6-13 years old.
All events will start and end at the amazing Iberostar Beach. The races will be timed using Pro-Chip Timing, a technology allowing for easier timing of the participants on a beautiful course designed for medium to entry-level participants.
"The course is not very technical but will certainly push you to your limits," Russell admitted.
Children's Medical Services will benefit from the triathlon this year. Through its medical network in Richmond, Virginia and other parts of the the United States, CMSI identifies health professionals willing to donate time and travel to Jamaica at their own expense.
Over the past 10 years, Children's Medical has brought medical and technical support personnel to Jamaica on a regular basis, including medical supplies and equipment such as computers, gurneys and ventilators and the first mammogram machine in western Jamaica.
Registration is open for all events of the Triathlon weekend with its website, www.jamaicatri.com, providing information.
Sponsors of the triathlon include Iberostar Hotel, Jamaica Tourist Board, Entertain Jamaica, Cran Wata, RJR Group, Budget Car Rental, Wards Power Tools, Gymkhana, JPS, Fontana Pharmacy, Rose Hall Developments, Marksman Group, Medical Response, Powerade, and JAVCO.


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Data East Small / Medium DMD Power Supply
DPS004 - Power Supply compatible with all Data East small and medium sized DMD pinball games. See game listing below to see which games this supply supports.
This board is a direct plug in replacement for the original OEM power supply.
The original power supply that this board replaces is Data East part numbers
520-5047-00, 520-5047-01, and 520-5047-02
- High Efficiency +5V section reduces heat dissipation
- Test points added for all voltages generated on the board
- All new (not 15+ year old) components and PCB
We now offer replacement connectors and pins for the often burned mating connectors to CN1 and CN8. If you want to look to add to your order, click here: connectors
Game Listing
Batman Checkpoint Guns N' Roses Hook Jurassic Park Last Action Hero Lethal Weapon 3 Rocky & Bullwinkle Star Trek 25th Anniversary Star Wars Tales from the Crypt Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Tommy WWF Royal Rumble


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In the first book in a riveting new fantasy series, college student McKenzie Lewis can track fae by reading the shadows they leave behind. But as she'll soon learn, some shadows lead to danger—and others lead to lies.
"Featuring a gutsy heroine and plenty of fay lore, this urban fantasy debut should appeal to fans of Seanan McGuire's October Daye novels." ---Library Journal
"Williams portrays a realistically shaded faerie realm in economic and magical turmoil." ---Publishers Weekly
"Don't miss this splendid debut." ---Ann Aguirre, author of the Sirantha Jax novels


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Sarah Raymer,
SolPowerPeople, Inc.
December 03, 2012
Austin, TX Thursday December 13th, SolPowerPeople will welcome Jean Arya, technical support specialist at UNIRAC to the #SolarMOOC stage to lecture on Solar PV racking engineering and installation considerations. Topics that will be covered include design load considerations, national standardization, performance engineering, code compliance,and liability issues.
As solar photovoltaic module prices become more competitive, the BOS components and installation procedures and costs are becoming a focal point in the solar industry. There is a need for safe and effective solutions that are not only well engineered but code compliant and easily installed.
What do designers and installers need to know in order to effectively and safely do their job? The PVI NABCEP(TM) certification requires installers to be extremely well versed in electrical requirements and design, but some say that the mounting and racking has been overlooked in certification requirements and testing. It is none-the-less just as important- if a system is not installed and mounted correctly, numerous problems can arise leading to nasty talk about solar systems and the companies that install them.
How can we make system installation easier, faster, and safer at the same time?
What must be considered when designing and managing a PV project in order to reduce install time, maximize ROI, and avoid permitting road-blocks along the way?
What codes and standards need to be abided by?
What load limitations need to be calculated?
Jean Arya, Technical Support Specialist at UNIRAC, will present a #SolarMOOC lecture this week in which she will address this issue, offering guidance as to what the current standards, codes, regulations and design requirements are for racking systems.
Unirac's SolarMount Evolution is the first complete PV racking system to achieve acceptance by the International Code Council, who writes the International Building Code.
Jean Arya has worked in renewable energy and energy efficiency for twelve years, with the local electric utility; a retailer/distributor; and for the past four years in Tech Support at Unirac. She enjoys giving presentations, and trains within the company and for customers all over the country. Her specialty is explaining technical information to non-technical people.
To receive an invitation to attend Jean's lecture, join the #SolarMOOC- SolPowerPeople's free massive open online course. The #SolarMOOC provides free solar training to the world- connecting industry experts to eachother and communities on an international level.
You may also register and join online through Webex- the password to join is 9999.
The information on this page was created and posted by the company identified above. RenewableEnergyWorld.com does not endorse, edit, or substantiate this information and assumes no obligation for this content's accuracy.


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|High-quality Automated and Manual Annotation of Proteins
HAMAP is a system for the classification and annotation of protein sequences. It consists of a collection of manually curated family profiles for protein classification, and associated, manually created annotation rules that specify annotations that apply to family members. HAMAP is used to annotate protein records in UniProtKB via UniProt's automatic annotation pipeline. We also provide an interface to scan user sequences against HAMAP family profiles [More...]."HAMAP in 2013, new developments in the protein family classification and annotation system." Nucleic Acids Res. 41:D584-D589(2013).


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Mark your calendar for a musical event like no other! It's time for Sesame Street Live "Can't Stop Singing" coming up January 9th-13th at Target Center!Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and all their Sesame Street friends are taking the stage to share their love of music.Visit SesameStreetLive.com for more information.
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