Just watched the gun debate between xQc and the random dono, and wanted to clarify some things given my background and experience (described below). I know most here just want to get straight to the next “MY REACTION WHEN X FAILS IN MINECRAFT LUL” memepost so I’m only going to bold the main points so that I can quickly do what a wise man once said - please clarify.

1. Banning guns, while extreme, has worked. xQc watched a video from Wendover Productions about negativity bias in media - he’s actually made another video about how Australia managed to enact strong gun control legislation that substantially reduced their mass shootings. Here is the link.
2. Banning guns will not work in the US. You might be wondering “why haven’t the blue states just banned guns 4Head”? It’s because the 2nd Amendment is EXTREMELY powerful in the court of law, and many stricter forms of gun control have been deemed unconstitutional by the courts. For example, McDonald v. City of Chicago was a landmark decision that deemed certain Chicago gun control regulations unconstitutional, such as banning handguns or requiring guns to be re-registered (or forfeited if the deadline passes). Even when the 2nd Amendment isn’t directly involved, other goofy ahh parts of the Constitution make federal legislation very difficult, such as the interstate commerce clause preventing the “Gun Free School Zones Act” due to United States v. Lopez.
3. It is hard to make gun control regulation in America because of how the law works. See above.
4. Democrats are not advocating to ban all guns. However, some Democrats, including Joe Biden, are advocating for an assault weapons ban on the grounds that they have been used to commit multiple mass shootings and are far more powerful than other guns. This is NOT bayzed because the vast majority of shootings are not caused by AR-15s. While this may feel like an emotionally compelling argument, the fact is that most mass shootings are done by handguns (https://www.statista.com/statistics/476409/mass-shootings-in-the-us-by-weapon-types-used/). If we want to reduce mass shootings as much as possible, then we should focus our efforts on the biggest contributing factors - not the one that makes the most media coverage.
5. Joe Biden and the Democrats are advocating for both more gun control AND better mental health treatment. The Biden administration passed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which better funds state intervention programs, improves the background search process, increases penalties for gun trafficking, and provides additional funding for violence prevention initiatives. He has also called for “requiring background checks for all gun sales, requiring safe storage of firearms, closing the dating violence restraining order loophole, and repealing gun manufacturers’ immunity from liability” according to this White House press statement. Joe Biden and the Democrats have also been pushing for mental health reform at the same time, awarding $300 million for states (and an additional $15 million through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act) to develop their own community mental health centers so that better intervention can occur. There are legitimate criticisms of the Biden administration, but he has actually done meaningful work for both gun control and mental health. This is important because, as X rightly pointed out, mental health issues are what cause a lot of shootings. I can confirm X’s point from experience. [Content Warning, skip to next point if you don’t feel comfortable with depression stuff] Last Thanksgiving, my brother took his own life with a gun that he was able to buy legally without any mental health checks. If he was checked, they would have seen that he had a list of conditions longer than the amount of time it takes X to find the stronghold. He was also originally going to delete my family too, but ended up bailing on that plan. If there were stricter federal regulations on guns like mandatory mental health screenings or a waiting period, tragedies like what my brother planned to do (and ended up doing) can be prevented because of exactly what X said - “the more steps it takes, the more likely someone gives up on their plan because it’s too much work”
6. If you want to persuade xQc (or anyone) about politics, yelling at them and insulting them will never work. While loud and angry debates are omega pog stream content, they are NEVER effective at convincing someone to change their position. I used to work as a political campaign organizer, (for both unsuccessful candidates and successful current congressmen/congresswomen). One of the most important things I taught to volunteers was not to engage in guilt-tripping or debating people who disagree with you, since chances are we won’t be prepared with the necessary facts, data, time, and empathy needed to persuade them to change from one candidate to the other or from Republican to Democrat. Of those four factors I listed, empathy is the most important. Nobody is going to change to a Democrat because somebody yelled at them about how they are racist and are upholding supremacist values. Why would you change your opinion to the one that the angry dude in front of you is screeching at you about?
7. Hasan is not “too libtard”/too centrist. I don’t know why the WHOMEGALUL dono said this - if you think that Hasan is centrist/liberal and not a progressive, then you have lost the plot and are probably some child who is too young or stupid to sign up to vote.

The last thing I want people to take away from X's debate is “gun control bad”, so hopefully the nuance above helps clarify things. I’m writing this before I go to sleep so I won’t respond immediately. Much love chat, we will get the record soon, xqcL

Everything in my inventory is up for trade. The most valuable items are listed here, the rest you can find in My Inventory

Feel free to Add Me or even better send a Trade Offer. Open for any suggestions: upgrades, downgrades / knives, gloves, skins / stickers, patterns, floats.

All Buyouts are listed in cash value.

KNIVES

★ Butterfly Knife Freehand FN #1, B/O: $1867

★ Butterfly Knife Bright Water MW, B/O: $1098

★ Butterfly Knife Blue Steel BS, B/O: $907

★ Butterfly Knife Ultraviolet FT, B/O: $789

★ Butterfly Knife Stained FT, B/O: $695

⎯

★ Bayonet Tiger Tooth MW #1, B/O: $888

★ Bayonet Gamma Doppler (Phase 4) FN, B/O: $727

★ Bayonet Doppler (Phase 2) FN, B/O: $608

★ Bayonet Doppler (Phase 1) FN, B/O: $521

★ Bayonet Rust Coat BS, B/O: $253

★ Bayonet Night FT, B/O: $251

★ StatTrak™ Bayonet Lore MW, B/O: $751

⎯

★ Karambit Gamma Doppler (Phase 4) FN, B/O: $1343

★ Karambit Damascus Steel FT, B/O: $774

★ Karambit Rust Coat BS, B/O: $537

★ Karambit Boreal Forest FT, B/O: $488

⎯

★ M9 Bayonet Fade FN, B/O: $1523

★ M9 Bayonet Fade FN, B/O: $1523

★ M9 Bayonet Doppler (Phase 4) FN, B/O: $1008

★ M9 Bayonet Blue Steel FT, B/O: $534

★ M9 Bayonet Rust Coat BS, B/O: $449

⎯

★ Flip Knife Fade FN, B/O: $703

★ Flip Knife Gamma Doppler (Phase 1) MW, B/O: $509

★ Flip Knife Doppler (Phase 1) FN, B/O: $406

★ Flip Knife Freehand FT, B/O: $228

★ StatTrak™ Flip Knife Bright Water FN, B/O: $332

⎯

★ Falchion Knife Doppler (Phase 2) FN, B/O: $292

★ Falchion Knife Doppler (Phase 3) FN, B/O: $264

★ Falchion Knife Marble Fade FN, B/O: $258

★ Falchion Knife Bright Water MW, B/O: $133

⎯

★ Stiletto Knife Fade FN, B/O: $822

★ Stiletto Knife Slaughter FN, B/O: $569

★ Stiletto Knife Doppler (Phase 1) FN, B/O: $530

★ Stiletto Knife Crimson Web FT, B/O: $396

★ StatTrak™ Stiletto Knife Scorched FT, B/O: $172

⎯

★ Gut Knife Doppler (Sapphire) MW #1, B/O: $830

★ Gut Knife Fade FN, B/O: $204

★ Gut Knife Tiger Tooth FN, B/O: $138

★ Gut Knife Bright Water MW, B/O: $104

★ Gut Knife Freehand FT, B/O: $92

★ Gut Knife Urban Masked FT, B/O: $82

★ StatTrak™ Gut Knife Rust Coat BS, B/O: $93

⎯

★ Shadow Daggers Fade FN, B/O: $258

★ Shadow Daggers Doppler (Phase 3) FN, B/O: $165

★ Shadow Daggers Blue Steel FT, B/O: $82

★ Shadow Daggers Bright Water FT, B/O: $82

★ Shadow Daggers Blue Steel WW, B/O: $80

★ Shadow Daggers Rust Coat BS, B/O: $74

★ StatTrak™ Shadow Daggers Marble Fade FN, B/O: $186

⎯

★ Classic Knife Slaughter MW, B/O: $311

★ StatTrak™ Classic Knife Stained BS, B/O: $163

⎯

★ Talon Knife Slaughter MW, B/O: $605

★ Talon Knife Scorched MW, B/O: $290

⎯

★ Ursus Knife Marble Fade FN, B/O: $405

★ Ursus Knife Night Stripe MW, B/O: $162

⎯

★ Paracord Knife Stained WW, B/O: $125

★ Paracord Knife Forest DDPAT FT, B/O: $97

★ Paracord Knife Safari Mesh FT, B/O: $96

⎯

★ Navaja Knife Safari Mesh FT, B/O: $71

★ Navaja Knife Scorched WW, B/O: $71

⎯

★ Nomad Knife Fade FN, B/O: $1015

★ Skeleton Knife, B/O: $909

★ Bowie Knife Boreal Forest MW, B/O: $106

★ Survival Knife Forest DDPAT FT, B/O: $97

GLOVES

★ Driver Gloves Crimson Weave FT, B/O: $335

★ Driver Gloves King Snake BS, B/O: $270

★ Driver Gloves Lunar Weave WW, B/O: $113

★ Driver Gloves Overtake WW, B/O: $88

★ Driver Gloves Overtake BS, B/O: $67

⎯

★ Moto Gloves Transport MW, B/O: $171

★ Moto Gloves Polygon BS, B/O: $137

★ Moto Gloves Transport WW, B/O: $71

★ Moto Gloves 3rd Commando Company BS, B/O: $62

⎯

★ Specialist Gloves Crimson Kimono WW, B/O: $1027

★ Specialist Gloves Tiger Strike FT, B/O: $654

★ Specialist Gloves Mogul FT, B/O: $295

★ Specialist Gloves Lt. Commander FT, B/O: $277

★ Specialist Gloves Crimson Web FT, B/O: $275

⎯

★ Sport Gloves Slingshot FT, B/O: $796

★ Sport Gloves Amphibious BS #2, B/O: $699

★ Sport Gloves Omega FT, B/O: $656

⎯

★ Broken Fang Gloves Unhinged BS, B/O: $60

WEAPONS

AK-47 Case Hardened BS, B/O: $130

AK-47 Bloodsport MW, B/O: $79

AK-47 Fuel Injector BS, B/O: $76

AK-47 Fuel Injector BS, B/O: $76

AK-47 Bloodsport FT, B/O: $70

AK-47 Neon Rider MW, B/O: $60

⎯

AWP Fade FN, B/O: $864

AWP BOOM MW, B/O: $84

AWP Containment Breach FT, B/O: $69

AWP Containment Breach FT, B/O: $69

AWP Wildfire FT, B/O: $59

AWP Chromatic Aberration FN, B/O: $59

StatTrak™ AWP Hyper Beast FT, B/O: $65

StatTrak™ AWP Hyper Beast FT, B/O: $65

⎯

Desert Eagle Blaze FN, B/O: $565

Desert Eagle Blaze FN, B/O: $565

Desert Eagle Printstream FN, B/O: $155

Desert Eagle Cobalt Disruption FN, B/O: $58

⎯

M4A1-S Icarus Fell FN, B/O: $414

M4A1-S Printstream MW, B/O: $204

M4A1-S Printstream MW, B/O: $204

⎯

M4A4 Poseidon FN, B/O: $1402

M4A4 The Emperor FN, B/O: $152

M4A4 Asiimov WW, B/O: $97

⎯

USP-S Kill Confirmed MW, B/O: $65

USP-S Printstream FT, B/O: $69

StatTrak™ USP-S Kill Confirmed FT, B/O: $123

StatTrak™ USP-S Neo-Noir FN, B/O: $106

⎯

AUG Flame Jörmungandr FN, B/O: $218

P2000 Ocean Foam FN, B/O: $139

Souvenir SSG 08 Death Strike MW, B/O: $81

CZ75-Auto Emerald Quartz MW, B/O: $61

Trade Offer Link - Steam Profile Link - My Inventory

Knives - Bowie Knife, Butterfly Knife, Falchion Knife, Flip Knife, Gut Knife, Huntsman Knife, M9 Bayonet, Bayonet, Karambit, Shadow Daggers, Stiletto Knife, Ursus Knife, Navaja Knife, Talon Knife, Classic Knife, Paracord Knife, Survival Knife, Nomad Knife, Skeleton Knife, Patterns - Gamma Doppler, Doppler (Phase 1, Phase 2, Phase 3, Phase 4, Black Pearl, Sapphire, Ruby, Emerald), Crimson Web, Lore, Fade, Ultraviolet, Night, Marble Fade (Fire & Ice, Fake FI), Case Hardened (Blue Gem), Autotronic, Slaughter, Black Laminate, Tiger Tooth, Boreal Forest, Scorched, Blue Steel, Vanilla, Damascus Steel, Forest DDPAT, Urban Masked, Freehand, Stained, Bright Water, Safari Mesh, Rust Coat, Gloves - Bloodhound Gloves (Charred, Snakebite, Guerrilla, Bronzed), Driver Gloves (Snow Leopard, King Snake, Crimson Weave, Imperial Plaid, Black Tie, Lunar Weave, Diamondback, Rezan the Red, Overtake, Queen Jaguar, Convoy, Racing Green), Hand Wraps (Cobalt Skulls, CAUTION!, Overprint, Slaughter, Leather, Giraffe, Badlands, Spruce DDPAT, Arboreal, Constrictor, Desert Shamagh, Duct Tape), Moto Gloves (Spearmint, POW!, Cool Mint, Smoke Out, Finish Line, Polygon, Blood Pressure, Turtle, Boom!, Eclipse, 3rd Commando Company, Transport), Specialist Gloves (Crimson Kimono, Tiger Strike, Emerald Web, Field Agent, Marble Fade, Fade, Foundation, Lt. Commander, Crimson Web, Mogul, Forest DDPAT, Buckshot), Sport Gloves (Pandora's Box, Superconductor, Hedge Maze, Vice, Amphibious, Slingshot, Omega, Arid, Big Game, Nocts, Scarlet Shamagh, Bronze Morph), Hydra Gloves (Case Hardened, Emerald, Rattler, Mangrove), Broken Fang Gloves (Jade, Yellow-banded, Unhinged, Needle Point), Pistols - P2000 (Wicked Sick, Ocean Foam, Fire Element, Amber Fade, Corticera, Chainmail, Imperial Dragon, Obsidian, Scorpion, Handgun, Acid Etched), USP-S (Printstream, Kill Confirmed, Whiteout, Road Rash, Owergrowth, The Traitor, Neo-Noir, Dark Water, Orion, Blueprint, Stainless, Caiman, Serum, Monster Mashup, Royal Blue, Ancient Visions, Cortex, Orange Anolis, Ticket To Hell, Black Lotus, Cyrex, Check Engine, Guardian, Purple DDPAT, Torque, Blood Tiger, Flashback, Business Class, Pathfinder, Para Green), Lead Conduit, Glock-18 (Umbral Rabbit, Fade, Candy Apple, Bullet Queen, Synth Leaf, Neo-Noir, Nuclear Garden, Dragon Tatto, Reactor, Pink DDPAT, Twilight Galaxy, Sand Dune, Groundwater, Blue Fissure, Snack Attack, Water Elemental, Brass, Wasteland Rebel, Vogue, Franklin, Royal Legion, Gamma Doppler, Weasel, Steel Disruption, Ironwork, Grinder, High Beam, Moonrise, Oxide Blaze, Bunsen Burner, Clear Polymer, Bunsen Burner, Night), P250 (Re.built, Nuclear Threat, Modern Hunter, Splash, Whiteout, Vino Primo, Mehndi, Asiimov, Visions, Undertow, Cartel, See Ya Later, Gunsmoke, Splash, Digital Architect, Muertos, Red Rock, Bengal Tiger, Crimson Kimono, Wingshot, Metallic DDPAT, Hive, Dark Filigree, Mint Kimono), Five-Seven (Neon Kimono, Berries And Cherries, Fall Hazard, Crimson Blossom, Hyper Beast, Nitro, Fairy Tale, Case Hardened, Copper Galaxy, Angry Mob, Monkey Business, Fowl Play, Anodized Gunmetal, Hot Shot, Retrobution, Boost Protocol), CZ75-Auto (Chalice, Crimson Web, Emerald Quartz, The Fuschia is Now, Nitro, Xiangliu, Yellow Jacket, Victoria, Poison Dart, Syndicate, Eco, Hexane, Pole, Tigris), Tec-9 (Rebel, Terrace, Nuclear Threat, Hades, Rust Leaf, Decimator, Blast From, Orange Murano, Toxic, Fuel Injector, Remote Control, Bamboo Forest, Isaac, Avalanche, Brother, Re-Entry, Blue Titanium, Bamboozle), R8 Revolver (Banana Cannon, Fade, Blaze, Crimson Web, Liama Cannon, Crazy 8, Reboot, Canal Spray, Night, Amber Fade), Desert Eagle (Blaze, Hand Cannon, Fennec Fox, Sunset Storm, Emerald Jörmungandr, Pilot, Hypnotic, Golden Koi, Printstream, Cobalt Disruption, Code Red, Ocean Drive, Midnight Storm, Kumicho Dragon, Crimson Web, Heirloom, Night Heist, Mecha Industries, Night, Conspiracy, Trigger Discipline, Naga, Directive, Light Rail), Dual Berettas (Flora Carnivora, Duelist, Cobra Strike, Black Limba, Emerald, Hemoglobin, Twin Turbo, Marina, Melondrama, Pyre, Retribution, Briar, Dezastre, Royal Consorts, Urban Shock, Dualing Dragons, Panther, Balance), Rifles - Galil (Aqua Terrace, Winter Forest, Chatterbox, Sugar Rush, Pheonix Blacklight, CAUTION!, Orange DDPAT, Cerberus, Dusk Ruins, Eco, Chromatic Aberration, Stone Cold, Tuxedo, Sandstorm, Shattered, Urban Rubble, Rocket Pop, Kami, Crimson Tsunami, Connexion), SCAR-20 (Fragments, Brass, Cyrex, Palm, Splash Jam, Cardiac, Emerald, Crimson Web, Magna Carta, Stone Mosaico, Bloodsport, Enforcer), AWP (Duality, Gungnir, Dragon Lore, Prince, Medusa, Desert Hydra, Fade, Lightning Strike, Oni Taiji, Silk Tiger, Graphite, Chromatic Aberration, Asiimov, Snake Camo, Boom, Containment Breach, Wildfire, Redline, Electric Hive, Hyper Beast, Neo-Noir, Man-o'-war, Pink DDPAT, Corticera, Sun in Leo, Elite Build, Fever Dream, Atheris, Mortis, PAW, Exoskeleton, Worm God, POP AWP, Phobos, Acheron, Pit Viper, Capillary, Safari Mesh), AK-47 (Head Shot, Wild Lotus, Gold Arabesque, X-Ray, Fire Serpent, Hydroponic, Panthera Onca, Case Hardened, Vulcan, Jet Set, Fuel Injector, Bloodsport, Nightwish, First Class, Neon Rider, Asiimov, Red Laminate, Aquamarine Revenge, The Empress, Wasteland Rebel, Jaguar, Black Laminate, Leet Museo, Neon Revolution, Redline, Frontside Misty, Predator, Legion of Anubis, Point Disarray, Orbit Mk01, Blue Laminate, Green Laminate, Emerald Pinstripe, Cartel, Phantom Disruptor, Jungle Spray, Safety Net, Rat Rod, Baroque Purple, Slate, Elite Build, Uncharted, Safari Mesh), FAMAS (Sundown, Prime Conspiracy, Afterimage, Commemoration, Dark Water, Spitfire, Pulse, Eye of Athena, Meltdown, Rapid Eye Move, Roll Cage, Styx, Mecha Industrie, Djinn, ZX Spectron, Valence, Neural Net, Night Borre, Hexne), M4A4 (Temukau, Howl, Poseidon, Asiimov, Daybreak, Hellfire, Zirka, Red DDPAT, Radiation Hazard, Modern Hunter, The Emperor, The Coalition, Bullet Rain, Cyber Security, X-Ray, Dark Blossom, Buzz Kill, In Living Color, Neo-Noir, Desolate Space, 龍王 (Dragon King), Royal Paladin, The Battlestar, Global Offensive, Tooth Fairy, Desert-Strike, Griffin, Evil Daimyo, Spider Lily, Converter), M4A1-S (Emphorosaur-S, Welcome to the Jungle, Imminent Danger, Knight, Hot Rod, Icarus Fell, Blue Phosphor, Printstream, Master Piece, Dark Water, Golden Coil, Bright Water, Player Two, Atomic Alloy, Guardian, Chantico's Fire, Hyper Beast, Mecha Industries, Cyrex, Control Panel, Moss Quartz, Nightmare, Decimator, Leaded Glass, Basilisk, Blood Tiger, Briefing, Night Terror, Nitro, VariCamo, Flashback), SG 553 (Cyberforce, Hazard Pay, Bulldozer, Integrale, Dragon Tech, Ultraviolet, Colony IV, Hypnotic, Cyrex, Candy Apple, Barricade, Pulse), SSG 08 (Death Strike, Sea Calico, Blood in the Water, Orange Filigree, Dragonfire, Big Iron, Bloodshot, Detour, Turbo Peek, Red Stone), AUG (Akihabara Accept, Flame Jörmungandr, Hot Rod, Midnight Lily, Sand Storm, Carved Jade, Wings, Anodized Navy, Death by Puppy, Torque, Bengal Tiger, Chameleon, Fleet Flock, Random Access, Momentum, Syd Mead, Stymphalian, Arctic Wolf, Aristocrat, Navy Murano), G3SG1 (Chronos, Violet Murano, Flux, Demeter, Orange Kimono, The Executioner, Green Apple, Arctic Polar Camo, Contractor), SMGs - P90 (Neoqueen, Astral Jörmungandr, Run and Hide, Emerald Dragon, Cold Blooded, Death by Kitty, Baroque Red, Vent Rush, Blind Spot, Asiimov, Trigon, Sunset Lily, Death Grip, Leather, Nostalgia, Fallout Warning, Tiger Pit, Schermatic, Virus, Shapewood, Glacier Mesh, Shallow Grave, Chopper, Desert Warfare), MAC-10 (Sakkaku, Hot Snakes, Copper Borre, Red Filigree, Gold Brick, Graven, Case Hardened, Stalker, Amber Fade, Neon Rider, Tatter, Curse, Propaganda, Nuclear Garden, Disco Tech, Toybox, Heat, Indigo), UMP-45 (Wild Child, Fade, Blaze, Day Lily, Minotaur's Labyrinth, Crime Scene, Caramel, Bone Pile, Momentum, Primal Saber), MP7 (Teal Blossom, Fade, Nemesis, Whiteout, Asterion, Bloosport, Abyssal Apparition, Full Stop, Special Delivery, Neon Ply, Asterion, Ocean Foam, Powercore, Scorched, Impire), PP-Bizon (Modern Hunter, Rust Coat, Forest Leaves, Antique, High Roller, Blue Streak, Seabird, Judgement of Anubis, Bamboo Print, Embargo, Chemical Green, Coblat Halftone, Fuel Rod, Photic Zone, Irradiated Alert, Carbon Fiber), MP9 (Featherweight, Wild Lily, Pandora's Box, Stained Glass, Bulldozer, Dark Age, Hot Rod, Hypnotic, Hydra, Rose Iron, Music Box, Setting Sun, Food Chain, Airlock, Mount Fuji, Starlight Protector, Ruby Poison Dart, Deadly Poison), MP5-SD (Liquidation, Oxide Oasis, Phosphor, Nitro, Agent, Autumn Twilly), Shotguns, Machineguns - Sawed-Off (Kiss♥Love, First Class, Orange DDPAT, Rust Coat, The Kraken, Devourer, Mosaico, Wasteland Princess, Bamboo Shadow, Copper, Serenity, Limelight, Apocalypto), XM1014 (Frost Borre, Ancient Lore, Red Leather, Elegant Vines, Banana Leaf, Jungle, Urban Perforated, Grassland, Blaze Orange, Heaven Guard, VariCamo Blue, Entombed, XOXO, Seasons, Tranquility, Bone Machine, Incinegator, Teclu Burner, Black Tie, Zombie Offensive, Watchdog), Nova (Baroque Orange, Hyper Beast, Green Apple, Antique, Modern Hunter, Walnut, Forest Leaves, Graphite, Blaze Orange, Rising Skull, Tempest, Bloomstick, Interlock, Quick Sand, Moon in Libra, Clean Polymer, Red Quartz, Toy Soldier), MAG-7 (Insomnia, Cinqueda, Counter Terrace, Prism Terrace, Memento, Chainmail, Hazard, Justice, Bulldozer, Silver, Core Breach, Firestarter, Praetorian, Heat, Hard Water, Monster Call, BI83 Spectrum, SWAG-7), M249 (Humidor, Shipping Forecast, Blizzard Marbleized, Downtown, Jungle DDPAT, Nebula Crusader, Impact Drill, Emerald Poison Dart), Negev (Mjölnir, Anodized Navy, Palm, Power Loader, Bratatat, CaliCamo, Phoenix Stencil, Infrastructure, Boroque Sand), Wear - Factory New (FN), Minimal Wear (MW), Field-Tested (FT), Well-Worn (WW), Battle-Scarred (BS), Stickers Holo/Foil/Gold - Katowice 2014, Krakow 2017, Howling Dawn, Katowice 2015, Crown, London 2018, Cologne 2014, Boston 2018, Atlanta 2017, Cluj-Napoca 2015, DreamHack 2014, King on the Field, Harp of War, Winged Difuser, Cologne 2016, Cologne 2015, MLG Columbus 2016, Katowice 2019, Berlin 2019, RMR 2020, Stockholm 2021, Antwerp 2022, Swag Foil, Flammable foil, Others - Souvenirs, Agents, Pins, Passes, Gifts, Music Kits, Cases, Keys, Capsules, Packages, Patches

Some items on the list may no longer be available or are still locked, visit My Inventory for more details.

Send a Trade Offer for fastest response. I consider all offers.

Add me for discuss if there is a serious offer that needs to be discussed.

Hey guys so we have a project currently running and we're looking for experienced tech wizards to help our mission to preserve a debug build of the game our community is based around Steel Battalion Line of Contact for Original Xbox. steelbattaliononline
This is the story so far:
-What we know about the Debug file/why we want it:
The debug version of the game is the oldest known obtainable version of the game (and the oldest known playable version of the game). The absolute oldest known build would be the E3 build, however it is currently doubtful that could ever be obtained nor is it likely that it still exists. The oldest obtained build right now is the Pilot Test, however it is unplayable since it was built to run on the xbox live beta campaign servers. This debug version (October 4, 2003) is almost 2 months older than the Pilot test (November 24th. 2003), making it not only the oldest obtainable version, but also (likely) the oldest playable version of the game, too.
The debug version of the game also holds a TON of debug info on how the game works and what the stats are for many things (stats obv not applicable to the release version, but gives us a good idea of how things work). See: https://imgur.com/a/9dJjC.
The rar file is 222.1mb in size. From the screenshots the file size is supposed to be 552.61mb, however this is it in its uncompressed state. To compare, compressing the final game (594 MB) gives us a file at a similar size (in my testing I got 222mb using 7z), so it’s highly likely that the file size is correct and that this file is in fact the debug version of the game.
What we currently know about the password: The rar would have been encoded in 2015 using winrar.
hash of the password is:
$RAR3$01d9d55bd0a09db32*d9f904178162b29dd3f1cf66650a3ed3
U/Tenfresh grilled his friend who created the password on his habits and memories; determining that these parameters are more likely (though definitely not guaranteed!):
1st character is likely a capital letter 2nd to 4th are likely lowercase 5+ are likely lower case, number or special. 7-10 characters estimated
Unlikely to have another capital in the middle Special characters likely to be at the end Not randomly generated
THE STORY SO FAR & FAQ
In ~2015, PERSON A saved a dev xbox from capcom offices where he worked.
PERSON A asked his friend PERSON B to serve as an intermediary to find a buyer for it on assemblergames (where his username was ‘coolmod’); because PERSON B had a much longer history there and b/c PERSON A was nervous to be associated w/ the item online.
PERSON B screwed around with it and recorded this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxYaf2ikJFU
PERSON B sold the xbox to PERSON C, and as a courtesy dumped the hard drive for him.
PERSON B password protected the .rar for two reasons It’s standard practice and expected among collectors when exchanging prototype software out of concern for the slightly sensitive position of his capcom employee friend.
PERSON B relayed the password to PERSON C via a PM on assemblergames. PERSON B threw out the files b/c they were not of interest to him anymore and he considered the matter closed.
About a decade passes…
PERSON B finds he accidentally kept a copy of the .rar on a backup drive and rethinks its value, but has no records available, nor memory of the password.
(see dead “ends” below) In 2023, PERSON B mentions to his friend, u/Tenfresh, that he has a password protected .rar of the LoC beta. WHAT?!?!
Dead Ends (AKA what’s already been tried): PERSON B is slightly amazed he still had the .rar file on a hard drive at all. He is moved by how much we care, and has looked high and low and does not have an uncompressed version, nor can he find the password.
Assemblergames has since gone defunct so the PM containing the password there is lost.
Inquiries have been made to those involved w/ the site and we’ve been told that there is almost no chance that a backup/archive of the site exists.
PERSON B reached out to PERSON C a few years ago, but he said he no longer could find the password either, and had since sold the xbox to PERSON D (whose identity is currently unknown [Le Fishy: I’m pretty confident I know who this is, however it’s a hard dead end]).
PERSON C’s name and 2015 address are known, and another outreach is in progress; but we’re not giving that info out publicly.
The hard drive that the uncompressed file was on when the .rar was created no longer exists; so data recovery is not an option.
Rockyou.txt dictionary has been tried. https://discord.com/channels/162274083432693770/1090035161237823488/1090627492970234007 https://pastebin.com/ivYgmXFK ixitomixi Has tried the kanoshi word list https://www.reddit.com/originalxbox/comments/125f1w6/comment/je6z5y9/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
https://github.com/kaonashi-passwords/Kaonashi
https://pastebin.com/raw/gDHKFZ4W
MagnumKale has tried the darkc0de, 10 million password list top 10000000 and openwall.net wordlists with no hits. As a sanity test, all ?a[1] to ?a?a?a?a[4] using the following command have been tested. hashcat -m 12500 -a 3 -w 3 rar.hash ?a?a?a?a?a --status --status-timer=1
5 char is running now and will be done in a few days
https://imgur.com/a/j93fDvu
rainbow tables don’t work on rar3 hashes
If anyone here is interested in our project please feel free to join our discord server: https://discord.gg/steelbattalion
We have a channel set up called #Brainbox and this is where all the people involved are pooling together to help crack the password.
I'm currently doing a give away to 1 lucky winner a green button Steel Battalion controller to whoever is the first one to get the password.
Thanks for getting this far through and I hope to hear contact from you soon for our mission 🫡

Expedition report from Rift Group 4
Report carried out by Lieutenant Marvin Bailey
Report states: Peaceful contact with the local town of Una has ended in failure. Upon nearing the gates, the elves demanded RG-4 to identify themselves and after identification, they opened fire on with bows, crossbows, and scorpions. RG4 retaliated by opening fire with its 50mm chain gun, destroying parts of the wall, killing an unknown number of defenders, and destroying their heavy defenses. The initial shock from the chain gun froze the defenders, allowing RG-4 to vacate the area with minimum damage and no losses taken. This was the first unsuccessful interaction with the local populace since the beginning of the expedition and the Rift Group program and it shows that not all natives will be pleased with REC's arrival.
Other news: The enemy force on the other side of the North Alston river has not shown any signs of movement. Moreover, drone footage shows a number of the local populace leaving the Meilume capital and Una across the river, further suggesting that the Imperial army wishes to fortify and wall off the area between the two Alston rivers with the intention of boxing the REC before attacking. CIA sources can confirm this is the case. As far as the Rosian vassal kingdoms are concerned, RG-1, upon making successful contact with the border town of Afa, has sent a platoon, led by lieutenant James Wilson, to the Alston capital of Olinor where they made contact with the king of Alston, Thavok Zorgen. After a number of debates, king Thavok has agreed to accompany the platoon to the duchies of Zirith, Dothen, and Elarith, as well as the kingdom of Opherin to convince the dukes and kind Ostontul to attend a meeting with ambassador Eugene Anderson. Additional transportation will be provided should it be necessary.
30th day of late yellow season
Elyana, Empire of Light
"So.", said the chained human, "Is it my turn to pick the nail or yours?". The torturer responded by punching him in the face. The prisoner spat out a piece of his tooth before answering, "C'mon, you're supposed to be consistent. It's nail, nail, cut, punch. The teeth come later when all the nails are gone. Everyone knows that.". The torturer punched him again. "There you go again, messing up the consistency. I think I know why you work in this shit hole now."
The torturer wanted to hit him again, but a voice stopped him, "Enough!". A moment later, two elves walked into the room.
"Great General Laeroth.", the torturer said as he bowed.
"How is the questioning, Maul?", Laeroth asked.
"Not well, my lord. This human is proving to be a greater challenge than I had anticipated. All I got was a name. Jack Mitchell."
Laeroth sighed as he approached the chained-up human. His body was cut in several places and half of his fingernails have been removed. In addition, he was missing two teeth and bleeding from his mouth and nose. Yet he still denies Maul. As much as it pained Laeroth to admit it, he was impressed. Any Rosian or even elf would have broken by now. What made this human different?
"Jack Mitchell.", Laeroth said, making Jack lift his head and smile.
"What's up?", Jack asked.
"The ceiling.", Laeroth answered, making Jack laugh. "What is humorous?"
"Maul over there said the same thing.", Jack replied as he wheezed, "You sure you're not related? You got the same shade."
This made Maul mad as he grabbed his hammer, "You insolent savage!"
"Calm yourself.", Laeroth said, "I still need this human alive. High mage Gunru, you have my permission.".
"Yes, general.", said Gunru. He was one of the seven high mages of the empire in North Altia, second only to the grand mage Ishton. Each high mage is able to use more than one type of magical ability. Usually, a mage is only able to use one ability from a single spirit. The mages of Vita can be healers or they can use their power to give life to made objects. This way they can create their own army, however, the mage has to remain alive in order for the creature to remain alive, and if the creature is destroyed the life will return back to its source. The mages of Elendi can use one of the various elements, such as wind, fire, water, and so on. One other ability the high mages possess is 'Mind read'. By focusing their spiritual energy on the mind of the target, they can visualize their knowledge.
"What the hell are you doing?", Jack asked as Gunru grabbed his head with both hands, "I mean I'm flattered but I'm into women, just so you know."
Gunru closed his eyes and white energy started appearing from his hands. That energy went into Jack's head, which remained perfectly still as this occurred. Gunru entered his mind and began to project Jack's memories, thoughts, and knowledge around him. Laeroth just watched. He himself couldn't see unless Gunru gave the knowledge to him. But he did see something that disturbed him. Gunru began to twitch. A twitching that turned to shake as his eyes opened and quickly pulled back while panting and holding his head as though he had a headache.
"Gunru.", Laeroth called, "Tell me, what have you seen?"
Gunru shook and could barely grasp the words to speak, "T-T-Terrible things. A mistake. All of this was a mistake."
"Show me."
"No!", Gunru yelled immediately, "You must not. I could not get all the details myself. You will go insane."
"I must know our enemy. Even if it is a little, I must know. Gunru, you must show me."
Gunru greatly hesitated and opposed this. But at the same time, he knew if anyone was able to take the strain, it was Laeroth, the most loyal servant of the empire. "Very well. I shall show you as much as I can. Forgive me."
As Gunru placed his hands on Laeroth's head, the same energy went into it. Laeroth opened his eyes and found himself on a field of battle. Two sides were fighting, humans. One side had blue clothing and the other was red, both fighting with cannons and boomsticks, but nothing else. The blue-clothed soldiers appeared to be winning and they charged the red ones, all while carrying a flag. Red and white stripes with stars. It was brutal. What could it mean?
Night turned to day over and over again, until another battle occurred. Same thing, broomsticks, and cannons, but they fought each other. Once again, there was a flag with stars and stripes but now there were two. A civil war? Hundreds of thousands of men died all for what?
Fast forward, Laeroth appeared in another field, but considerably more terrifying. It was a field of black mud, ash, and blood as far as the eye could see. Thousands upon thousands of bodies piled up around giant cannons that fired and destroyed castles. He could see waves of soldiers running forward at their dug-in enemies. They fell by the dozen until a few lucky ones reached the line and engaged in a brutal brawl. The fighting kept escalating until a massive white cloud filled the battlefield and everyone caught in started choking and dying.
Once the smoke cleared, Laeroth could see hundreds of thousands, no, millions of soldiers and armored beasts marching across a field. They fought another gigantic army, one Laeroth thought could never exist. Millions of troops met on the battlefield and slaughtered one another as the metal monsters spat fire and thousands of iron wyverns fought in the air. Massive ships of steel fired enormous cannons of steel at one another as hundreds of iron rods fell from the sky and flattened the cities below.
Closing and opening his eyes one more time he saw a city. A large city with towers of stone and glass that pierced the clouds. But then he saw it get destroyed as it was engulfed in a literal sea of flames. All of those people were dead in an instant, and in place of the city was a gigantic cloud in the shape of a mushroom.
The day turned to night again as Laeroth was lifted into the air and observed the world change. The nations fought one another while also existing in peace. Cities became massive and their armies even more powerful. But then, the fires came. The great cities turned to a smoldering pile of ash as they turned on one another in the name of 'salvation'. War, disease, poverty, entire civilizations were whipped out and empires started to fall. But in this chaos, something was born. The petty rivalry of the great powers vanished and united they led their armies and pulled the corruption by its roots. It took them decades but they did it. And now united, they rebuilt their homes. The world was not at peace but they made the most of it. At least until they showed up. The rift opened, the invasion failed and now an angered giant prepares to take its vengeance and punish them for their crimes.
Gunru stopped sending energy into Laeroth's mind and let go of his head. Laeroth bent over and panted. His heart was racing and his nose bleeding. He could not believe what he saw. Was there really no hope? Was this war lost before it even began? How was he to win? He wasn't, but he knew he couldn't just give up. His pride as a warrior and a soldier wouldn't let him. But more than that, it was Canus. His maniacal nature coupled with fear will only make things worse if he were to find out. Furthermore, the Inquisition will most likely pull strings and keep the war going for their sick and twisted games. Laeroth knew he had to come up with something, otherwise, the empire will crumble.
"General, are you alright.", Maul asked.
"I am fine Maul.", Laeroth answered, "Take the human back to the cell and treat his wounds. I will let you know what I want with him next later."
"Yes, my lord.", Maul said as he gestured to the guards to help him.
"Gunru."
"Yes, general?", Gunru answered.
"You must not speak of this to anyone. Not even the emperor. This stays between us. Do you understand me?"
"Yes, general."
"Good. Now excuse me, I must clean myself and prepare for the future.". Laeroth left the torture chamber and climbed up the steps to the halls. On his way to his personal chamber, he could feel a strange sensation run down his spine. The effects of the mind read? No, this was something else. He made a random turn and walked down a narrow hallway. After taking a few steps, he prepared a knife and waited. Soon, a cloaked individual suddenly appeared from behind the corner and started running away. Laeroth immediately gave chase, signaling the guards in front to stop him. Two guards formed up with shields, which made him stop for a moment. After a moment Laeroth threw his knife at his back. He yelled in pain as he fell over and the guards moved in.
"Leave him!", Laeroth shouted as he grabbed the man and pulled the cloak down. It turned out to be a woman. "Who sent you!? Talk!". His words fell on deaf ears as the woman's head twitched and a thick purple foam-like substance oozed from her mouth. Laeroth groaned and let her go, "Burn the body. Speak nothing of this.". The guards nodded and carried the body outside.
'Gilshor.', Laeroth thought, 'I will not let you turn this war into your own personal puppet show. The darkness will not rule the light.'
---
(Meanwhile)
Upper level of the Imperial palace
Lilyth Camilla Agorix was always a strange girl. While the other girls took care of their hair, she took care of the armor forged specifically for her. While the other girls practiced knitting and read poetry, she expressed an interest in politics and philosophy. This behavior wasn't particularly accepted by her father. Her mother, on the other hand, empress Alruna Flavia Agorix, greatly supported her. It was thanks to her effort that women were allowed to join the army, and at the moment, a tenth of the army is female. Alruna wasn't named the Lioness for anything, and Lilyth tries to live up to her expectations.
But some members of the family aren't as hard-working as her. Her brother Armas is the biggest and most disgusting slob. She could hear him and his hooligans laugh in his chamber. Trying her best to ignore them, she walked past, but as Armas exited the room he called her over, "Hey sister! Come on in. We have room."
Lilyth groaned, "I have more important matters to attend to than entertain a room full of children."
Armas laughed, "Oh come on, loosen up. The slaves taught me that."
"Armas, if mother finds out-"
"What? What will she do? These slaves were given to me and I can do whatever I want with them."
"Is that so?", spoke a mature womanly voice, "Tell me, Armas, what exactly have you been doing?"
"M-Mother?", Armas uttered. Next to her was the second youngest daughter, Khelsa, along with the captive human girl, Amy. The two became friends after Amy arrived and while Alruna didn't support it at first, she learned that a child is a child, and her being from a supposedly savage land is irrelevant. "Nothing. Just questioning these captives with my soldiers."
"You mean raping women with your hooligans.", Alruna said as she walked into his room. The stench and sight made her sick. "Guards! Take these women to my chambers and bring along some maids. Clean them, feed them, and dress them properly." Guards did just that, pushing away the thugs who grunted in response.
"Khelsa?", Amy asked, "Is that your brother?"
Khelsa sighed in response, "Yes. I'm sorry you had to see this."
As the guards took the women out, Armas protested, "Mother, this is unfair. These women are my slaves. Furthermore, they are savages from a barbaric land. They should consider themselves lucky to even be in my presence. Father says-"
Alruna slapped him, stopping his sentence, "Your father may be the emperor, but I know him better than anyone else. He is narrow-minded and frightened, only seeing what is right in front of him, and never bothering to properly assess anything. We may be the chosen bringers of light, but if we act as barbaric as our adversaries then we are no better than them. Now, get this room cleaned and then yourself. You are royalty, act like it." With that Alruna and Lilyth left, leaving Armas to bicker and throw tantrums.
"Thank you, mother.", Lilyth said, "I must go now."
"Go, my daughter.", said Alruna. Lilyth bowed and entered her chamber.
"Fenris.", she spoke, "Is everything ready?"
"Yes, princess.", Fenris said, "The savage stands before you in chains and the scribe has prepared the parchment."
"Excellent. Scribe, you are to document any and all findings. Listen carefully. Do you understand?"
"Yes, princess.", answered the scribe.
"Let us begin.", Lilyth said as she walked to the captive, "What is your name?"
"You know that.", he answered and received a back-handed slap. After moving his head back, he answered, "Brian O'Neil."
"Where are you from?"
"My mom.", to which he received a punch in the stomach. It didn't hurt a lot, considering he was a large man. "The United States of America."
"Tell me more about it."
"It's a unity of fifty-two states with three hundred and fifty million people."
This shocked Lilyth but she didn't show it, "Are there more countries?"
"Many more. My country isn't even the biggest one."
"So there are more empires in your world."
"No, there aren't any."
Lilyth paused for a moment, "Then what?"
"We are a republic. We elect our leader and that leader represents us. He doesn't have all the power and all of his decisions are put to a vote. Empires and kings are a thing of the past."
"You expect me to believe that? A nation cannot function without a centralized figure controlling it."
Brad chuckled, "We use to think that, too. But we found out that the opposite is true. One person can control a city, or maybe a small nation. But the bigger a nation gets and the more powerful it gets, the more strain appears on a single person. This is why our nations are governed by dozens of people and we have careful systems for governance. A single person is not enough. He would only bring ruin."
This shocked Lilyth more. A system like this was always theorized by politicians and philosophers, but nothing was ever tested because the emperors abolished it, saying that it goes against the path of light. "You say that. But our empire has grown powerful and spread across the world. We have become its rulers and spreaders of wisdom, knowledge, and civilization."
"There used to be an empire in my world that thought just like you. They wanted to conquer the entire world and make it so that only their ways exist. Do you want to know what happened?"
"What?"
"They became too big. There was too much ground. Their forces were spread thin and could be picked off by united barbarians who didn't like their ways. War stopped and since their economy depended on it, it crumbled. Their politicians became corrupt and power-hungry. They stole from and even killed each other. Eventually, they fell beneath the force of the united kingdoms they called savages and were wiped out. This is why no one can truly conquer the world. No matter how hard you fight, the world always wins."
Lilyth clenched her fists and stared at Brad with an angered look, "You say that we will end up the same?"
"If you refuse to change, then yes.".
After staring at him for a few moments, she spoke, "Fenris! Take him back to his cell. We will continue this tomorrow."
"At once, princess.", Fenris said and grabbed Brad by the arm.
As they were walking out the door, Brad turned his head to Fenris, "You know she likes you, right?".
Fenris looked at him for a bit before pushing him forward. Lilyth was left to ponder Brad's words. There is still much for her to learn.
---
(That night)
Somewhere between Meilume capital and Una
Being a prisoner is never good. Your rights are taken away and the ones who captured you can do anything they want to you. They could kill you, sell you or worse. This was the predicament the Belus family found itself in. Out of the two hundred soldiers that accompanied them, only one soldier remained, the others were killed and fed to the welfen and leanoids. The Belus family was in a cage with the last soldier, Klaus, and a servant, Lia. The five of them were all sitting with their hands tied behind their backs, wondering what will happen next. Taria was still grieving over the death of Aego, not even lifting her head.
"Bellon.", Nimriel whispered, "What will happen to us?"
"Do not worry.", Bellon said, "We will alright."
"Stop lying, father.", Taria said, still with head lowered, "These people will first rape us, torture us and then demand ransom from the empire."
"Hush, my lady.", Lia said, "Don't say such things."
"What? The truth?"
"You should listen to the little girl.", said a rogue elf as he crouched in front of the cage. Behind him was the fire in the center of the camp with four more rogues, two leanoids, and one welfen. Most of the bandits were asleep, only over a dozen stayed awake. "The money we'll get from you will make us set for life. Sure, we might have lost more than half our men, but that just means more for the living."
Taria spat, "Open this cage and I'll show you a little girl."
The rogue chuckled, "Quite a fighter. I saw you kill that leanoid. You're good. Why don't you come with us?"
"Why would I join a bunch of good-for-nothing traitors? You know nothing of honor, duty or the light."
The rogue laughed, "They still teach that shit? The light is nothing but a made-up excuse the first emperor made so we can take these lands. People like us? We see the truth. And all of you are being manipulated."
"You dare mock the path of light?", asked Bellon.
"Shouldn't a bad joke be mocked?"
Taria and Bellon gritted their teeth. This is why rogues are killed on sight. They know nothing but greed. As Taria stared at the rogue, something appeared in the corner of her vision. A man in green armor held a black boomstick and aimed it at the bandits by the fire. She looked around and saw six more. Are they insane? If they fire it, it will alert everyone. But when they fired them, only a slight sound was heard. Enough for the rogue in front of her to turn around. He saw his mates dead, but couldn't call for help as his neck was ripped out by a welfen. The Belus family was in shock as the welfen opened the cage.
"Don't be afraid.", he spoke, "I'm with the Americans."
This confused the family. "Who?", Taria asked.
Soon after, a soldier in green got to them, "My name is Lieutenant Caden Roberts of RG-3. We're here to rescue you.". He cut their ropes and waved his hand to signal the rest of his men. As they moved, Taria saw the dead bodies of the bandits and when they got out of the camp she could see that only fifteen soldiers, including two tribals, came to rescue them.
"Who are you people?", Taria asked.
"We're the Rift Expeditionary Force from the United States of America.", said the lieutenant as he pressed a small metallic box which caused the entire bandit camp to get engulfed in flames. The bandits burned and screamed, some ran out of the camp but got shot by the green soldiers. Their camouflaged armor, repeating broomsticks, and fire magic puzzled Taria greatly. She couldn't even see their faces from their masks and eyewear. Who are they? Her questions had to wait a little longer, as iron carriages moved from behind them and opened.
"Lieutenant, is it go time?", spoke the man from one of the carriages.
"Yeah.", said the lieutenant, "Let's go, I'll get them to the MRAP. Come on.". He led the five of them to the middle carriages through its back door. It looked like it was completely made of metal and that it could take a cannon shot. This just further confused them. As the carriages started moving, they noticed that it was going at high speeds, even faster than horses.
"Who are you?", Bellon asked, "What do you want from us?"
The soldiers in front of them looked at each other before taking their masks and helmets off, revealing their pale faces. It wasn't anything sinister and they didn't look like they intended to harm them.
"I am sergeant Jeff Parker.", spoke one of them.
"I am staff sergeant Liam Cook.", spoke the other one, "Over here is Lioba, our feelian, and Olaf, our friendly welfen."
"It's welfen that attacked us.", Klaus spoke.
"Do not speak as if they are of my kind.", said Olaf in an angered tone, "Those beasts lost their meaning in life."
"What do you mean?", Jeff asked.
"Each wolf lives for the pack. For the tribe. He fights for it, provides for it, and dies for it. These wolves, they've abandoned their blood and chosen the life of a wild animal. They're no better than the ferals."
"I see. We have those too. We call them deserters. They flee the army and abandon their brothers. And so we hunt them down and punish them."
"As you should."
After some silence, Klaus spoke, "Forgive me. I meant no disrespect.". Olaf nodded.
"Are you taking us home?", Nimriel asked.
"No.", Liam said, "We're taking you to Galdush. Our lieutenant-general wishes to speak with you. Well, lord Bellon more specifically." The five went silent. This was the enemy from the rift, and now they're taking them to their leader.
"Are we to become your slaves then?", Taria asked.
Jeff and Liam chuckled a bit. "No no, of course not. That kind of thing is in the past for us. Our lieutenant-general only wants to speak with you. After a nice conversation, we will personally bring you back to the Meilume capital."
"How do you know its name?", Bellon asked.
"We have our ways. Now sit back and enjoy the ride.", Liam said as he pulled some blocks out of his pocket. When he opened it, it was gray and seemed to be food. After offering it to Lia, he spoke, "Hungry?". After some hesitation, Lia took it and tasted it. It was quite delicious. As she ate the whole thing, Liam chuckled as he opened a bag, "Don't strain yourself, I have enough for everyone."
---
(Several hours later)
Fort Galdush
"My lady.", said Lia as she shook Taria, "My lady, wake up, we've arrived."
Taria woke up, "What? How long have I been asleep?"
"A few hours, my lady."
This was surprising, to say the least, "We're already here?". She looked out the window and saw their fort as well as their machines. The M2 battle tanks rolled over the hills and fired at the targets, blasting through them. She saw soldiers shooting their guns and groups running in a circle. At the gate, the lieutenant introduced himself and the convoy continued. Inside, they could see soldiers clad in thick, metal armor carrying large boxes and as they got out of the MRAP they saw the Invictus ACs flying in the air. All of this overwhelmed them. To them, these were otherworldly monsters. To the rangers, it was a normal everyday occurrence.
Lieutenant Roberts stood in front of his men, "Alright. I will take lord Bellon Belus to lieutenant-general Coleman. Parker, Cook, you take the rest to their temporary residents."
"Yes sir.", both of them said as they saluted, "Okay, let's go. I promise it's nothing bad."
Taria, Lia, Nimriel, and Klaus went with Jeff and Liam to their residence while Caden took Bellon to the lieutenant-general. The two of them went into the central command building.
"Lieutenant Caden Roberts of Rift Group 3 here to see colonel Andrew Marshal and lieutenant-general Patrick Coleman.", he said to a woman who worked as a secretary.
After some delay, the woman nodded, "Go down the hall to meeting room two."
"Thank you. Come on.". Bellon followed Caden through the hall. He admired how it was crystal clear and pearl white like they were made of pure marble. As they walked they reached the meeting room and entered. Inside were two men who stood up immediately.
"Good morning.", said the first man, "I am lieutenant-general Patrick Coleman of the Rift Expeditionary Corp. And this is our logistics officer, colonel Andrew Marshal."
"Nice to meet you.", Andrew said, "You are the lord of Meilume, Bellon Belus, correct?"
Bellon stuttered, "Y-Yes I am. Great general, you have my eternal gratitude for saving my life, and my family.", he said as he bowed.
"Please.", Patrick spoke, "No need to bow. And please call me Patrick. Sit down."
"Thank you, Patrick.", Bellon said as he sat down, Caden next to him.
"While I accept your gratitude, I'm going to need to ask something else of you?"
'Of course. What was I expecting?', Bellon thought, "And what would that be? If it is gold I assure you the emperor will pay a decent sum for my family and me."
"Oh no, god no. I'm not asking for money. I need something from you that only someone of your status within the empire can provide."
'Someone of my status'. "What exactly?"
"As you know, your empire opened a rift in our country and attacked without warning and unprovoked. We beat the invasion force and the force than came after it. You lost two armies in less than a month, or, a moon cycle as you call them."
"Yes, I am aware of this. What does that have to do with me? I didn't send those armies."
"We know. But you have a connection with the person who did. And we want you to send a message to him for us."
'A message?' "And what kind of message?"
"We would like an audience with a representative to negotiate peace."
This stunned Bellon. 'Peace?'
---
(Meanwhile)
Jeff and Liam brought the four to an empty army barracks, reserved for these situations. "Okay.", Liam spoke, "You'll be staying here until the lieutenant-general orders otherwise. Don't worry, you'll be comfortable." They entered the barracks and it was clean, with several beds, a fridge, desks, and lights, which Jeff turned on, surprising the 'guests'.
"Make yourselves at home.", Jeff said, "I'll bring you some breakfast soon.". He left and closed the door, leaving the four to talk.
"What do you think will happen, Klaus?", Nimriel asked.
"I don't know, my lady.", he answered, "But we shouldn't do anything to anger them. I think we should wait and see what is to come."
Taria looked out the window and saw the tanks and LAVs driving past as well as soldiers marching in unison. "Incredible. All this power. They could have destroyed Meilume before we even had the chance to escape. And yet here we are. In their fortress, waiting for them to bring us food. They want something."
"Well.", Lia said, "That man who offered me the sweet food was nice. I think they're not that bad."
"They are the enemy, Lia. Enemies should never be trusted. It might seem like they are good, but they are using us. They want us here so we can witness their power and use us to spread fear through the rest of the empire. Clever."
"I think you are thinking too much about it, my lady. Perhaps you need to sit down, and rest."
Taria sighed. She walked to a nearby desk and observed the notebooks, pens, and pencils. She sat down and opened a notebook, immediately noticing how the paper is milk-white with lines to help her writing. Picking up one of the pens, she observed how smooth it was and made of spotless, thin metal, but also how it didn't have a tip. Then she noticed the round top and remembered how the lieutenant pressed his metal box. Pressing down the top, the pen clicked and the tip appeared. Amazed, she clicked it several more times before starting to write.
"Taria?", Nimriel asked, "What are you doing?"
"I'm writing down what I saw."
At that moment, Jeff opened the door and brought several white cardboard boxes, "I brought breakfast. I hope it's to your liking."
Each of them took one and Jeff put the last one on Taria's desk. She looked at him and asked, "Can you show me more of your fortress?"
Jeff hesitated a bit, "Why?"
"I'm curious. I wish to learn."
"So you can write it down and give the information to the army?". Taria sat silently. This wasn't untrue. "Look, we're not your enemy. Our commanding officer is talking to your father about peace. Truth is, we don't want war.". Taria paused to think about that. "But if I get permission, I'll show you around."
"I would appreciate it. Thank you."
​
End of chapter 10
​
---
First / Previous / Next
Thank you very much for reading.
If you'd like to support me and my work feel free to upvote, follow, and check out my Patreon where you can get access to early chapters, a private Discord server, a chance to commission, and even influence on ongoing stories.

I need help getting the routing setup correctly, and many resources I've encountered are for cloud providers. Is there something wrong with the manifest below? I'm trying to access the container in the pod via a hostname.

apiVersion: apps/v1 kind: Deployment metadata: name: myproject labels: app: myproject spec: replicas: 1 selector: matchLabels: app: myproject template: metadata: labels: app: myproject spec: volumes: - name: tmp-database emptyDir: {} containers: - name: myproject image: 'localhost:5000/myproject:1' imagePullPolicy: Always ports: - containerPort: 5000 resources: limits: memory: "128Mi" cpu: "500m" volumeMounts: - mountPath: /data name: tmp-database env: - name: DATABASE_DIR value: /data - name: CELERY_BROKER_URL value: 'amqp://guest:[email protected]:5672' - name: CELERY_RESULT_BACKEND value: 'rpc://' - name: consumer-small image: 'localhost:5000/consumer-small:1' resources: limits: memory: "128Mi" cpu: "500m" imagePullPolicy: Always volumeMounts: - mountPath: /data name: tmp-database env: - name: DATABASE_DIR value: /data - name: CELERY_BROKER_URL value: 'amqp://guest:[email protected]:5672' - name: CELERY_RESULT_BACKEND value: 'rpc://' --- apiVersion: v1 kind: Service metadata: name: myproject-service annotations: external-dns.alpha.kubernetes.io/hostname: myproject.lab.local spec: type: LoadBalancer selector: app: myproject ports: - port: 80 targetPort: 5000 --- apiVersion: networking.k8s.io/v1 kind: Ingress metadata: name: myproject-ingress spec: ingressClassName: nginx rules: - host: myproject.lab.local http: paths: - path: / pathType: Prefix backend: service: name: myproject-service port: number: 80 

kubectl get pods -A NAMESPACE NAME READY STATUS RESTARTS AGE default consumer-large-7d56bd67df-xj8cd 1/1 Running 0 4m26s default myproject-cbd975d99-46v9h 2/2 Running 0 4m31s default rabbitmq-646496dd85-hmdrd 0/1 CrashLoopBackOff 6 (90s ago) 4m34s ingress-nginx ingress-nginx-controller-8ttq6 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h ingress-nginx ingress-nginx-controller-brjzz 1/1 Running 2 (43h ago) 2d8h ingress-nginx ingress-nginx-controller-j9qcn 1/1 Running 2 (43h ago) 2d8h ingress-nginx ingress-nginx-controller-mnf9x 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h ingress-nginx ingress-nginx-controller-nm66k 1/1 Running 2 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system calico-kube-controllers-7b9cddc446-pz8x9 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system calico-node-jjcxh 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system calico-node-pnc8q 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system calico-node-pzwcw 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system calico-node-s8wlf 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system calico-node-xfvk9 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system coredns-68868dc95b-j7krk 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system coredns-68868dc95b-xg5lr 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system dns-autoscaler-7ccd65764f-z2t6l 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system kube-apiserver-node1 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system kube-apiserver-node2 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system kube-controller-manager-node1 1/1 Running 2 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system kube-controller-manager-node2 1/1 Running 2 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system kube-proxy-2mhp5 1/1 Running 0 11h kube-system kube-proxy-g6ls6 1/1 Running 0 11h kube-system kube-proxy-nmfjh 1/1 Running 0 11h kube-system kube-proxy-rzg4v 1/1 Running 0 11h kube-system kube-proxy-v8j4g 1/1 Running 0 11h kube-system kube-registry-proxy-btkgj 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 45h kube-system kube-registry-proxy-cgw6r 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 45h kube-system kube-registry-proxy-ncs2j 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 45h kube-system kube-registry-proxy-pml7v 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 45h kube-system kube-registry-proxy-rvqfn 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 45h kube-system kube-registry-v0-c4bdh 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 47h kube-system kube-scheduler-node1 1/1 Running 2 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system kube-scheduler-node2 1/1 Running 2 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system nginx-proxy-node3 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system nginx-proxy-node4 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system nginx-proxy-node5 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system nodelocaldns-5g6xf 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system nodelocaldns-9sfb7 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system nodelocaldns-j2xhp 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system nodelocaldns-lj2qv 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h kube-system nodelocaldns-m6749 1/1 Running 1 (43h ago) 2d8h metallb-system controller-6fb465f64d-t54xz 1/1 Running 0 12h metallb-system speaker-4v29s 1/1 Running 0 12h metallb-system speaker-67s2t 1/1 Running 0 12h metallb-system speaker-9xpjv 1/1 Running 0 12h metallb-system speaker-b58wp 1/1 Running 0 12h metallb-system speaker-lwxp9 1/1 Running 0 12h kubectl get ingresses NAME CLASS HOSTS ADDRESS PORTS AGE myproject-ingress nginx myproject.lab.local 80 4m54s kubectl get svc NAME TYPE CLUSTER-IP EXTERNAL-IP PORT(S) AGE kubernetes ClusterIP 10.233.0.1  443/TCP 2d8h myproject-service LoadBalancer 10.233.26.244 10.5.0.50 80:31804/TCP 5m20s rabbitmq-service ClusterIP 10.233.38.118  5672/TCP 5m23s kubectl describe ingresses myproject-ingress Name: myproject-ingress Labels:  Namespace: default Address: Ingress Class: nginx Default backend:  Rules: Host Path Backends ---- ---- -------- myproject.lab.local / myproject-service:80 (10.233.74.100:5000) Annotations:  Events:  kubectl describe service myproject Name: myproject-service Namespace: default Labels:  Annotations: external-dns.alpha.kubernetes.io/hostname: myproject.lab.local Selector: app=myproject Type: LoadBalancer IP Family Policy: SingleStack IP Families: IPv4 IP: 10.233.26.244 IPs: 10.233.26.244 LoadBalancer Ingress: 10.5.0.50 Port:  80/TCP TargetPort: 5000/TCP NodePort:  31804/TCP Endpoints: 10.233.74.100:5000 Session Affinity: None External Traffic Policy: Cluster Events: Type Reason Age From Message ---- ------ ---- ---- ------- Normal IPAllocated 6m11s metallb-controller Assigned IP ["10.5.0.50"] Normal nodeAssigned 6m9s metallb-speaker announcing from node "node3" 

Here is the app if anyone is interested.

Expedition report from Rift Group 4
Report carried out by Lieutenant Marvin Bailey
Report states: Peaceful contact with the local town of Una has ended in failure. Upon nearing the gates, the elves demanded RG-4 to identify themselves and after identification, they opened fire on with bows, crossbows, and scorpions. RG4 retaliated by opening fire with its 50mm chain gun, destroying parts of the wall, killing an unknown number of defenders, and destroying their heavy defenses. The initial shock from the chain gun froze the defenders, allowing RG-4 to vacate the area with minimum damage and no losses taken. This was the first unsuccessful interaction with the local populace since the beginning of the expedition and the Rift Group program and it shows that not all natives will be pleased with REC's arrival.
Other news: The enemy force on the other side of the North Alston river has not shown any signs of movement. Moreover, drone footage shows a number of the local populace leaving the Meilume capital and Una across the river, further suggesting that the Imperial army wishes to fortify and wall off the area between the two Alston rivers with the intention of boxing the REC before attacking. CIA sources can confirm this is the case. As far as the Rosian vassal kingdoms are concerned, RG-1, upon making successful contact with the border town of Afa, has sent a platoon, led by lieutenant James Wilson, to the Alston capital of Olinor where they made contact with the king of Alston, Thavok Zorgen. After a number of debates, king Thavok has agreed to accompany the platoon to the duchies of Zirith, Dothen, and Elarith, as well as the kingdom of Opherin to convince the dukes and kind Ostontul to attend a meeting with ambassador Eugene Anderson. Additional transportation will be provided should it be necessary.
30th day of late yellow season
Elyana, Empire of Light
"So.", said the chained human, "Is it my turn to pick the nail or yours?". The torturer responded by punching him in the face. The prisoner spat out a piece of his tooth before answering, "C'mon, you're supposed to be consistent. It's nail, nail, cut, punch. The teeth come later when all the nails are gone. Everyone knows that.". The torturer punched him again. "There you go again, messing up the consistency. I think I know why you work in this shit hole now."
The torturer wanted to hit him again, but a voice stopped him, "Enough!". A moment later, two elves walked into the room.
"Great General Laeroth.", the torturer said as he bowed.
"How is the questioning, Maul?", Laeroth asked.
"Not well, my lord. This human is proving to be a greater challenge than I had anticipated. All I got was a name. Jack Mitchell."
Laeroth sighed as he approached the chained-up human. His body was cut in several places and half of his fingernails have been removed. In addition, he was missing two teeth and bleeding from his mouth and nose. Yet he still denies Maul. As much as it pained Laeroth to admit it, he was impressed. Any Rosian or even elf would have broken by now. What made this human different?
"Jack Mitchell.", Laeroth said, making Jack lift his head and smile.
"What's up?", Jack asked.
"The ceiling.", Laeroth answered, making Jack laugh. "What is humorous?"
"Maul over there said the same thing.", Jack replied as he wheezed, "You sure you're not related? You got the same shade."
This made Maul mad as he grabbed his hammer, "You insolent savage!"
"Calm yourself.", Laeroth said, "I still need this human alive. High mage Gunru, you have my permission.".
"Yes, general.", said Gunru. He was one of the seven high mages of the empire in North Altia, second only to the grand mage Ishton. Each high mage is able to use more than one type of magical ability. Usually, a mage is only able to use one ability from a single spirit. The mages of Vita can be healers or they can use their power to give life to made objects. This way they can create their own army, however, the mage has to remain alive in order for the creature to remain alive, and if the creature is destroyed the life will return back to its source. The mages of Elendi can use one of the various elements, such as wind, fire, water, and so on. One other ability the high mages possess is 'Mind read'. By focusing their spiritual energy on the mind of the target, they can visualize their knowledge.
"What the hell are you doing?", Jack asked as Gunru grabbed his head with both hands, "I mean I'm flattered but I'm into women, just so you know."
Gunru closed his eyes and white energy started appearing from his hands. That energy went into Jack's head, which remained perfectly still as this occurred. Gunru entered his mind and began to project Jack's memories, thoughts, and knowledge around him. Laeroth just watched. He himself couldn't see unless Gunru gave the knowledge to him. But he did see something that disturbed him. Gunru began to twitch. A twitching that turned to shake as his eyes opened and quickly pulled back while panting and holding his head as though he had a headache.
"Gunru.", Laeroth called, "Tell me, what have you seen?"
Gunru shook and could barely grasp the words to speak, "T-T-Terrible things. A mistake. All of this was a mistake."
"Show me."
"No!", Gunru yelled immediately, "You must not. I could not get all the details myself. You will go insane."
"I must know our enemy. Even if it is a little, I must know. Gunru, you must show me."
Gunru greatly hesitated and opposed this. But at the same time, he knew if anyone was able to take the strain, it was Laeroth, the most loyal servant of the empire. "Very well. I shall show you as much as I can. Forgive me."
As Gunru placed his hands on Laeroth's head, the same energy went into it. Laeroth opened his eyes and found himself on a field of battle. Two sides were fighting, humans. One side had blue clothing and the other was red, both fighting with cannons and boomsticks, but nothing else. The blue-clothed soldiers appeared to be winning and they charged the red ones, all while carrying a flag. Red and white stripes with stars. It was brutal. What could it mean?
Night turned to day over and over again, until another battle occurred. Same thing, broomsticks, and cannons, but they fought each other. Once again, there was a flag with stars and stripes but now there were two. A civil war? Hundreds of thousands of men died all for what?
Fast forward, Laeroth appeared in another field, but considerably more terrifying. It was a field of black mud, ash, and blood as far as the eye could see. Thousands upon thousands of bodies piled up around giant cannons that fired and destroyed castles. He could see waves of soldiers running forward at their dug-in enemies. They fell by the dozen until a few lucky ones reached the line and engaged in a brutal brawl. The fighting kept escalating until a massive white cloud filled the battlefield and everyone caught in started choking and dying.
Once the smoke cleared, Laeroth could see hundreds of thousands, no, millions of soldiers and armored beasts marching across a field. They fought another gigantic army, one Laeroth thought could never exist. Millions of troops met on the battlefield and slaughtered one another as the metal monsters spat fire and thousands of iron wyverns fought in the air. Massive ships of steel fired enormous cannons of steel at one another as hundreds of iron rods fell from the sky and flattened the cities below.
Closing and opening his eyes one more time he saw a city. A large city with towers of stone and glass that pierced the clouds. But then he saw it get destroyed as it was engulfed in a literal sea of flames. All of those people were dead in an instant, and in place of the city was a gigantic cloud in the shape of a mushroom.
The day turned to night again as Laeroth was lifted into the air and observed the world change. The nations fought one another while also existing in peace. Cities became massive and their armies even more powerful. But then, the fires came. The great cities turned to a smoldering pile of ash as they turned on one another in the name of 'salvation'. War, disease, poverty, entire civilizations were whipped out and empires started to fall. But in this chaos, something was born. The petty rivalry of the great powers vanished and united they led their armies and pulled the corruption by its roots. It took them decades but they did it. And now united, they rebuilt their homes. The world was not at peace but they made the most of it. At least until they showed up. The rift opened, the invasion failed and now an angered giant prepares to take its vengeance and punish them for their crimes.
Gunru stopped sending energy into Laeroth's mind and let go of his head. Laeroth bent over and panted. His heart was racing and his nose bleeding. He could not believe what he saw. Was there really no hope? Was this war lost before it even began? How was he to win? He wasn't, but he knew he couldn't just give up. His pride as a warrior and a soldier wouldn't let him. But more than that, it was Canus. His maniacal nature coupled with fear will only make things worse if he were to find out. Furthermore, the Inquisition will most likely pull strings and keep the war going for their sick and twisted games. Laeroth knew he had to come up with something, otherwise, the empire will crumble.
"General, are you alright.", Maul asked.
"I am fine Maul.", Laeroth answered, "Take the human back to the cell and treat his wounds. I will let you know what I want with him next later."
"Yes, my lord.", Maul said as he gestured to the guards to help him.
"Gunru."
"Yes, general?", Gunru answered.
"You must not speak of this to anyone. Not even the emperor. This stays between us. Do you understand me?"
"Yes, general."
"Good. Now excuse me, I must clean myself and prepare for the future.". Laeroth left the torture chamber and climbed up the steps to the halls. On his way to his personal chamber, he could feel a strange sensation run down his spine. The effects of the mind read? No, this was something else. He made a random turn and walked down a narrow hallway. After taking a few steps, he prepared a knife and waited. Soon, a cloaked individual suddenly appeared from behind the corner and started running away. Laeroth immediately gave chase, signaling the guards in front to stop him. Two guards formed up with shields, which made him stop for a moment. After a moment Laeroth threw his knife at his back. He yelled in pain as he fell over and the guards moved in.
"Leave him!", Laeroth shouted as he grabbed the man and pulled the cloak down. It turned out to be a woman. "Who sent you!? Talk!". His words fell on deaf ears as the woman's head twitched and a thick purple foam-like substance oozed from her mouth. Laeroth groaned and let her go, "Burn the body. Speak nothing of this.". The guards nodded and carried the body outside.
'Gilshor.', Laeroth thought, 'I will not let you turn this war into your own personal puppet show. The darkness will not rule the light.'
---
(Meanwhile)
Upper level of the Imperial palace
Lilyth Camilla Agorix was always a strange girl. While the other girls took care of their hair, she took care of the armor forged specifically for her. While the other girls practiced knitting and read poetry, she expressed an interest in politics and philosophy. This behavior wasn't particularly accepted by her father. Her mother, on the other hand, empress Alruna Flavia Agorix, greatly supported her. It was thanks to her effort that women were allowed to join the army, and at the moment, a tenth of the army is female. Alruna wasn't named the Lioness for anything, and Lilyth tries to live up to her expectations.
But some members of the family aren't as hard-working as her. Her brother Armas is the biggest and most disgusting slob. She could hear him and his hooligans laugh in his chamber. Trying her best to ignore them, she walked past, but as Armas exited the room he called her over, "Hey sister! Come on in. We have room."
Lilyth groaned, "I have more important matters to attend to than entertain a room full of children."
Armas laughed, "Oh come on, loosen up. The slaves taught me that."
"Armas, if mother finds out-"
"What? What will she do? These slaves were given to me and I can do whatever I want with them."
"Is that so?", spoke a mature womanly voice, "Tell me, Armas, what exactly have you been doing?"
"M-Mother?", Armas uttered. Next to her was the second youngest daughter, Khelsa, along with the captive human girl, Amy. The two became friends after Amy arrived and while Alruna didn't support it at first, she learned that a child is a child, and her being from a supposedly savage land is irrelevant. "Nothing. Just questioning these captives with my soldiers."
"You mean raping women with your hooligans.", Alruna said as she walked into his room. The stench and sight made her sick. "Guards! Take these women to my chambers and bring along some maids. Clean them, feed them, and dress them properly." Guards did just that, pushing away the thugs who grunted in response.
"Khelsa?", Amy asked, "Is that your brother?"
Khelsa sighed in response, "Yes. I'm sorry you had to see this."
As the guards took the women out, Armas protested, "Mother, this is unfair. These women are my slaves. Furthermore, they are savages from a barbaric land. They should consider themselves lucky to even be in my presence. Father says-"
Alruna slapped him, stopping his sentence, "Your father may be the emperor, but I know him better than anyone else. He is narrow-minded and frightened, only seeing what is right in front of him, and never bothering to properly assess anything. We may be the chosen bringers of light, but if we act as barbaric as our adversaries then we are no better than them. Now, get this room cleaned and then yourself. You are royalty, act like it." With that Alruna and Lilyth left, leaving Armas to bicker and throw tantrums.
"Thank you, mother.", Lilyth said, "I must go now."
"Go, my daughter.", said Alruna. Lilyth bowed and entered her chamber.
"Fenris.", she spoke, "Is everything ready?"
"Yes, princess.", Fenris said, "The savage stands before you in chains and the scribe has prepared the parchment."
"Excellent. Scribe, you are to document any and all findings. Listen carefully. Do you understand?"
"Yes, princess.", answered the scribe.
"Let us begin.", Lilyth said as she walked to the captive, "What is your name?"
"You know that.", he answered and received a back-handed slap. After moving his head back, he answered, "Brian O'Neil."
"Where are you from?"
"My mom.", to which he received a punch in the stomach. It didn't hurt a lot, considering he was a large man. "The United States of America."
"Tell me more about it."
"It's a unity of fifty-two states with three hundred and fifty million people."
This shocked Lilyth but she didn't show it, "Are there more countries?"
"Many more. My country isn't even the biggest one."
"So there are more empires in your world."
"No, there aren't any."
Lilyth paused for a moment, "Then what?"
"We are a republic. We elect our leader and that leader represents us. He doesn't have all the power and all of his decisions are put to a vote. Empires and kings are a thing of the past."
"You expect me to believe that? A nation cannot function without a centralized figure controlling it."
Brad chuckled, "We use to think that, too. But we found out that the opposite is true. One person can control a city, or maybe a small nation. But the bigger a nation gets and the more powerful it gets, the more strain appears on a single person. This is why our nations are governed by dozens of people and we have careful systems for governance. A single person is not enough. He would only bring ruin."
This shocked Lilyth more. A system like this was always theorized by politicians and philosophers, but nothing was ever tested because the emperors abolished it, saying that it goes against the path of light. "You say that. But our empire has grown powerful and spread across the world. We have become its rulers and spreaders of wisdom, knowledge, and civilization."
"There used to be an empire in my world that thought just like you. They wanted to conquer the entire world and make it so that only their ways exist. Do you want to know what happened?"
"What?"
"They became too big. There was too much ground. Their forces were spread thin and could be picked off by united barbarians who didn't like their ways. War stopped and since their economy depended on it, it crumbled. Their politicians became corrupt and power-hungry. They stole from and even killed each other. Eventually, they fell beneath the force of the united kingdoms they called savages and were wiped out. This is why no one can truly conquer the world. No matter how hard you fight, the world always wins."
Lilyth clenched her fists and stared at Brad with an angered look, "You say that we will end up the same?"
"If you refuse to change, then yes.".
After staring at him for a few moments, she spoke, "Fenris! Take him back to his cell. We will continue this tomorrow."
"At once, princess.", Fenris said and grabbed Brad by the arm.
As they were walking out the door, Brad turned his head to Fenris, "You know she likes you, right?".
Fenris looked at him for a bit before pushing him forward. Lilyth was left to ponder Brad's words. There is still much for her to learn.
---
(That night)
Somewhere between Meilume capital and Una
Being a prisoner is never good. Your rights are taken away and the ones who captured you can do anything they want to you. They could kill you, sell you or worse. This was the predicament the Belus family found itself in. Out of the two hundred soldiers that accompanied them, only one soldier remained, the others were killed and fed to the welfen and leanoids. The Belus family was in a cage with the last soldier, Klaus, and a servant, Lia. The five of them were all sitting with their hands tied behind their backs, wondering what will happen next. Taria was still grieving over the death of Aego, not even lifting her head.
"Bellon.", Nimriel whispered, "What will happen to us?"
"Do not worry.", Bellon said, "We will alright."
"Stop lying, father.", Taria said, still with head lowered, "These people will first rape us, torture us and then demand ransom from the empire."
"Hush, my lady.", Lia said, "Don't say such things."
"What? The truth?"
"You should listen to the little girl.", said a rogue elf as he crouched in front of the cage. Behind him was the fire in the center of the camp with four more rogues, two leanoids, and one welfen. Most of the bandits were asleep, only over a dozen stayed awake. "The money we'll get from you will make us set for life. Sure, we might have lost more than half our men, but that just means more for the living."
Taria spat, "Open this cage and I'll show you a little girl."
The rogue chuckled, "Quite a fighter. I saw you kill that leanoid. You're good. Why don't you come with us?"
"Why would I join a bunch of good-for-nothing traitors? You know nothing of honor, duty or the light."
The rogue laughed, "They still teach that shit? The light is nothing but a made-up excuse the first emperor made so we can take these lands. People like us? We see the truth. And all of you are being manipulated."
"You dare mock the path of light?", asked Bellon.
"Shouldn't a bad joke be mocked?"
Taria and Bellon gritted their teeth. This is why rogues are killed on sight. They know nothing but greed. As Taria stared at the rogue, something appeared in the corner of her vision. A man in green armor held a black boomstick and aimed it at the bandits by the fire. She looked around and saw six more. Are they insane? If they fire it, it will alert everyone. But when they fired them, only a slight sound was heard. Enough for the rogue in front of her to turn around. He saw his mates dead, but couldn't call for help as his neck was ripped out by a welfen. The Belus family was in shock as the welfen opened the cage.
"Don't be afraid.", he spoke, "I'm with the Americans."
This confused the family. "Who?", Taria asked.
Soon after, a soldier in green got to them, "My name is Lieutenant Caden Roberts of RG-3. We're here to rescue you.". He cut their ropes and waved his hand to signal the rest of his men. As they moved, Taria saw the dead bodies of the bandits and when they got out of the camp she could see that only fifteen soldiers, including two tribals, came to rescue them.
"Who are you people?", Taria asked.
"We're the Rift Expeditionary Force from the United States of America.", said the lieutenant as he pressed a small metallic box which caused the entire bandit camp to get engulfed in flames. The bandits burned and screamed, some ran out of the camp but got shot by the green soldiers. Their camouflaged armor, repeating broomsticks, and fire magic puzzled Taria greatly. She couldn't even see their faces from their masks and eyewear. Who are they? Her questions had to wait a little longer, as iron carriages moved from behind them and opened.
"Lieutenant, is it go time?", spoke the man from one of the carriages.
"Yeah.", said the lieutenant, "Let's go, I'll get them to the MRAP. Come on.". He led the five of them to the middle carriages through its back door. It looked like it was completely made of metal and that it could take a cannon shot. This just further confused them. As the carriages started moving, they noticed that it was going at high speeds, even faster than horses.
"Who are you?", Bellon asked, "What do you want from us?"
The soldiers in front of them looked at each other before taking their masks and helmets off, revealing their pale faces. It wasn't anything sinister and they didn't look like they intended to harm them.
"I am sergeant Jeff Parker.", spoke one of them.
"I am staff sergeant Liam Cook.", spoke the other one, "Over here is Lioba, our feelian, and Olaf, our friendly welfen."
"It's welfen that attacked us.", Klaus spoke.
"Do not speak as if they are of my kind.", said Olaf in an angered tone, "Those beasts lost their meaning in life."
"What do you mean?", Jeff asked.
"Each wolf lives for the pack. For the tribe. He fights for it, provides for it, and dies for it. These wolves, they've abandoned their blood and chosen the life of a wild animal. They're no better than the ferals."
"I see. We have those too. We call them deserters. They flee the army and abandon their brothers. And so we hunt them down and punish them."
"As you should."
After some silence, Klaus spoke, "Forgive me. I meant no disrespect.". Olaf nodded.
"Are you taking us home?", Nimriel asked.
"No.", Liam said, "We're taking you to Galdush. Our lieutenant-general wishes to speak with you. Well, lord Bellon more specifically." The five went silent. This was the enemy from the rift, and now they're taking them to their leader.
"Are we to become your slaves then?", Taria asked.
Jeff and Liam chuckled a bit. "No no, of course not. That kind of thing is in the past for us. Our lieutenant-general only wants to speak with you. After a nice conversation, we will personally bring you back to the Meilume capital."
"How do you know its name?", Bellon asked.
"We have our ways. Now sit back and enjoy the ride.", Liam said as he pulled some blocks out of his pocket. When he opened it, it was gray and seemed to be food. After offering it to Lia, he spoke, "Hungry?". After some hesitation, Lia took it and tasted it. It was quite delicious. As she ate the whole thing, Liam chuckled as he opened a bag, "Don't strain yourself, I have enough for everyone."
---
(Several hours later)
Fort Galdush
"My lady.", said Lia as she shook Taria, "My lady, wake up, we've arrived."
Taria woke up, "What? How long have I been asleep?"
"A few hours, my lady."
This was surprising, to say the least, "We're already here?". She looked out the window and saw their fort as well as their machines. The M2 battle tanks rolled over the hills and fired at the targets, blasting through them. She saw soldiers shooting their guns and groups running in a circle. At the gate, the lieutenant introduced himself and the convoy continued. Inside, they could see soldiers clad in thick, metal armor carrying large boxes and as they got out of the MRAP they saw the Invictus ACs flying in the air. All of this overwhelmed them. To them, these were otherworldly monsters. To the rangers, it was a normal everyday occurrence.
Lieutenant Roberts stood in front of his men, "Alright. I will take lord Bellon Belus to lieutenant-general Coleman. Parker, Cook, you take the rest to their temporary residents."
"Yes sir.", both of them said as they saluted, "Okay, let's go. I promise it's nothing bad."
Taria, Lia, Nimriel, and Klaus went with Jeff and Liam to their residence while Caden took Bellon to the lieutenant-general. The two of them went into the central command building.
"Lieutenant Caden Roberts of Rift Group 3 here to see colonel Andrew Marshal and lieutenant-general Patrick Coleman.", he said to a woman who worked as a secretary.
After some delay, the woman nodded, "Go down the hall to meeting room two."
"Thank you. Come on.". Bellon followed Caden through the hall. He admired how it was crystal clear and pearl white like they were made of pure marble. As they walked they reached the meeting room and entered. Inside were two men who stood up immediately.
"Good morning.", said the first man, "I am lieutenant-general Patrick Coleman of the Rift Expeditionary Corp. And this is our logistics officer, colonel Andrew Marshal."
"Nice to meet you.", Andrew said, "You are the lord of Meilume, Bellon Belus, correct?"
Bellon stuttered, "Y-Yes I am. Great general, you have my eternal gratitude for saving my life, and my family.", he said as he bowed.
"Please.", Patrick spoke, "No need to bow. And please call me Patrick. Sit down."
"Thank you, Patrick.", Bellon said as he sat down, Caden next to him.
"While I accept your gratitude, I'm going to need to ask something else of you?"
'Of course. What was I expecting?', Bellon thought, "And what would that be? If it is gold I assure you the emperor will pay a decent sum for my family and me."
"Oh no, god no. I'm not asking for money. I need something from you that only someone of your status within the empire can provide."
'Someone of my status'. "What exactly?"
"As you know, your empire opened a rift in our country and attacked without warning and unprovoked. We beat the invasion force and the force than came after it. You lost two armies in less than a month, or, a moon cycle as you call them."
"Yes, I am aware of this. What does that have to do with me? I didn't send those armies."
"We know. But you have a connection with the person who did. And we want you to send a message to him for us."
'A message?' "And what kind of message?"
"We would like an audience with a representative to negotiate peace."
This stunned Bellon. 'Peace?'
---
(Meanwhile)
Jeff and Liam brought the four to an empty army barracks, reserved for these situations. "Okay.", Liam spoke, "You'll be staying here until the lieutenant-general orders otherwise. Don't worry, you'll be comfortable." They entered the barracks and it was clean, with several beds, a fridge, desks, and lights, which Jeff turned on, surprising the 'guests'.
"Make yourselves at home.", Jeff said, "I'll bring you some breakfast soon.". He left and closed the door, leaving the four to talk.
"What do you think will happen, Klaus?", Nimriel asked.
"I don't know, my lady.", he answered, "But we shouldn't do anything to anger them. I think we should wait and see what is to come."
Taria looked out the window and saw the tanks and LAVs driving past as well as soldiers marching in unison. "Incredible. All this power. They could have destroyed Meilume before we even had the chance to escape. And yet here we are. In their fortress, waiting for them to bring us food. They want something."
"Well.", Lia said, "That man who offered me the sweet food was nice. I think they're not that bad."
"They are the enemy, Lia. Enemies should never be trusted. It might seem like they are good, but they are using us. They want us here so we can witness their power and use us to spread fear through the rest of the empire. Clever."
"I think you are thinking too much about it, my lady. Perhaps you need to sit down, and rest."
Taria sighed. She walked to a nearby desk and observed the notebooks, pens, and pencils. She sat down and opened a notebook, immediately noticing how the paper is milk-white with lines to help her writing. Picking up one of the pens, she observed how smooth it was and made of spotless, thin metal, but also how it didn't have a tip. Then she noticed the round top and remembered how the lieutenant pressed his metal box. Pressing down the top, the pen clicked and the tip appeared. Amazed, she clicked it several more times before starting to write.
"Taria?", Nimriel asked, "What are you doing?"
"I'm writing down what I saw."
At that moment, Jeff opened the door and brought several white cardboard boxes, "I brought breakfast. I hope it's to your liking."
Each of them took one and Jeff put the last one on Taria's desk. She looked at him and asked, "Can you show me more of your fortress?"
Jeff hesitated a bit, "Why?"
"I'm curious. I wish to learn."
"So you can write it down and give the information to the army?". Taria sat silently. This wasn't untrue. "Look, we're not your enemy. Our commanding officer is talking to your father about peace. Truth is, we don't want war.". Taria paused to think about that. "But if I get permission, I'll show you around."
"I would appreciate it. Thank you."
End of chapter 10
​
---
First / Previous / Next
Thank you very much for reading
If you'd like to support me and my work feel free to upvote, follow, and check out my Patreon where you can get access to early chapters, a private Discord server, a chance to commission, and even influence on ongoing stories: patreon.com/SimpleWrites

Hello all, I was bored so I decided to work out some of the prices for stuff on the store. Below is most of the working out and results, including the average amount of WB you get per dollar, the average cost of each skin and how that correlates to the skins available for merit from challenges. Please note all prices are in Australian dollars as that's where I'm from and it was easier. Additionally I included the extra warbonds you get for what I'm assuming is a first purchase bonus for these calculations. So the WB per dollar will decrease if and when these are removed from the purchase. Additionally these are only rough numbers using averages and such so it isn't definitive just meant to give an idea about how things are priced roughly.
​
51 warbond skins for individual units across all packs
5 skins available for Merit in total (4 featured infantry skins in 'highlights' plus the walking stuka)
Total skins currently available = 56
​
600WB for $7.99 = 75 WB per $1.00
1300WB for $15.99 = 81WB per $1.00 (Includes 100 extra)
2700WB for $31.99 = 84WB per $1.00 (Includes 300 extra)
5000WB for $55.99 = 89WB per $1.00 (Includes 800 extra)
7500WB for $79.99 = 93WB per $1.00 (Includes 1500 extra)
​
Average price of WB per dollar = 84WB per $1.00
Total warbonds for all warbond exclusive skins = 10420WB
Warbonds for skins currently available for WB and Merit = 480WB
Total WB for all current skins = 10900WB
​
Total cost for all current skins using average WB price = $129.00
Average price of each individual skin = ($129.00/56) = $2.30
Fun fact, that $129.00 is almost the same price of the digital premium edition of the game that I preordered. Meaning that to get all the skins you'd have to pay almost the entire price of the premium edition preorder price again.
​
Now with all that out of the way comes the interesting bit. The 4 skins available in the 'highlights' section, which I assume are on a weekly/monthly cycle of random or pre determined skins, are much cheaper than their counter parts in the WB exclusive packs. All 4 of them are 60WB each which means each one is a bit under a dollar. From my experience with the challenges so far that would mean that you could either pay around a dollar for each skin or do both weekly's plus a few dailies for enough merit to unlock just one of them.
​
Another thing to note is that they seem to value vehicle skins more than infantry skins which can been seen when looking at the Fighting first tank and infantry packs. The tank pack has 4 skins at 900WB while the infantry one has 5 skins for 600WB.
​
The pricing in WB for these packs is all over the place and doesn't seem to relate to anything in particular. This is of course not uncommon for in game stores as they love doing everything they can to obfuscate how much both the premium currency and the individual items you are purchasing cost.
​
Here are some numbers to compare prices to CoH 2 skin packs. Most of the skin packs available were either $6.89 or $6.83 and included all three of light, medium and heavy skins for both standard winter versions. It's hard to ascertain how much these are individually as each skin such as light vehicle winter for example would cover a different amounts of vehicles depending on the faction. But if we just divide the cost of the pack by the 6 skin types, 3 winter and 3 standard you get around $1.15 per skin. However remember that each of these 'skins' I'm referring to covers multiple vehicles in that vehicle class.
​
Also I have no idea why the walking stuka is the only thing available for purchase with merit other than the 4 in highlights and why it's hidden in the 'cosmetics' tab at the bottom. Plus why the hell this one skin of this certain vehicle like a month of grinding challenges and the same WB price as all 4 infantry skins in highlights.
​
Something else that is kind of stupid is they said in the dev posts about the store that they would try to strike a balance between earnable and paid only content but it leans so far towards the paid stuff at the moment that it's really disheartening to actually try going for said earnable stuff when they clearly aren't trying to make it 'balanced'.
​
In any case this is all I have to say and I hope some of you find this at least a bit interesting lol

As a Service Officer at Centrelink, I've witnessed numerous instances where debts have been raised incorrectly and payments have been granted due to administrative errors. It's frustrating for the customers involved, as it often causes confusion and unnecessary stress, often who are in vulnerable circumstances. Therefore, I've decided to create this guide to help users understand the process of waiving Centrelink debts caused by administrative errors. The guides' goal is to provide you with accurate and clear information to navigate the system and, hopefully, alleviate some of the burdens associated with these errors.
In this guide, I will introduce and explain the main sections of the Social Security Guide 6.7.3.30, which covers common administrative errors, guidelines for waivers, and the appeal process. By understanding these topics, you will be better equipped to handle any issues that may arise regarding Centrelink debts due to administrative errors. Specifically, we will discuss:

1. When a debt is attributable solely to an administrative error
2. What constitutes 'good faith
3. When a payment is 'received'

By the end of this post, you should have a clear understanding of the process and requirements for waiving Centrelink debts caused by administrative errors.
SIDE NOTE:-
Please feel free to contact me if any of this does not make sense, I am more than happy to help clarify any part of this, and provide some initial guidance on initiating a internal review.
I. Common Administrative Errors
A. Overpayments Overpayments
This occurs when Centrelink pays more than the eligible amount to a recipient. This can be caused by various factors such as incorrect income reporting, changes in personal circumstances, or errors within Centrelink's system. Overpayments can result in debts that recipients must repay unless they are eligible for a waiver due to administrative error.
B. Incorrect personal details
Another common administrative error is the recording of incorrect personal details, such as misspelled names, wrong dates of birth, or incorrect addresses. These errors can impact recipients' payments and eligibility for benefits. It is essential for recipients to verify their personal details with Centrelink and promptly report any discrepancies.
C. Inaccurate benefit assessments
Inaccurate benefit assessments arise when there are miscalculations of payment rates or errors in eligibility criteria. These can result in recipients receiving incorrect payment amounts. According to the Social Security Guide 8.1.1.70, delegates may apply the incorrect claim provision when a customer claims a payment for which they are not qualified, followed by a claim for a payment for which they are qualified.
Factors to be considered when determining if it is reasonable to apply the incorrect claim provision include the time between initial and second claims, qualification throughout the relevant period, and whether the claims are for similar payments.
Valuing assets is a critical aspect of determining eligibility and payment amounts. Assets are generally assessed at their net market value, which is the amount a person would expect to receive if they sold the asset on the open market, less any valid debts or encumbrances. Centrelink appointed valuers may be required for certain asset valuations, while for other assets, the person's estimate is accepted as reasonable.
New valuations can have different effects depending on whether they are higher or lower than previous valuations or a person's estimate. A higher valuation applies from the first payday after it is received. In contrast, a lower valuation follows the date of effect rules.
Market-linked managed investments and listed securities are valued and revalued according to specific guidelines. Initial valuations occur when a person's new claim is determined, while revaluations happen on 20 March and 20 September each year, as well as upon request or following a notifiable event that affects the investments.
II. Guidelines for Waiving Centrelink Debts due to Administrative Errors
A. Legal framework
The legal framework for waiving Centrelink debts due to administrative errors is established under the Social Security Act 1991 and the Social Security (Administration) Act 1999. The specific provisions governing Centrelink debt waivers can be found in Sections 1236A and 1237AAD of the Social Security Act and Section 6.7.3.30 of the Social Security Guide, titled "Waiver for administrative error debt."
B. Conditions for waiver
To be eligible for a waiver of Centrelink debt due to administrative error, the following conditions must be met:

1. Administrative error or lack of information provided by Centrelink: The overpayment must have occurred as a result of an administrative error on Centrelink's part or because the recipient was not given sufficient information by Centrelink to avoid the overpayment.
2. Good faith: The recipient must have received the payments in good faith, meaning they were unaware of the overpayment and did not intentionally seek to receive higher payments than they were entitled to.
3. Financial hardship: The recovery of the debt would cause severe financial hardship to the recipient, making it unreasonable to expect repayment.

C. Evidence requirements
To support a waiver application, recipients should provide evidence that demonstrates the administrative error and their good faith. This may include:

1. Documentation of the error: This can involve letters, payment summaries, or screenshots from the Centrelink system showing the incorrect information or calculation that led to the overpayment.
2. Proof of good faith: Evidence that the recipient acted in good faith can include records of correct reporting, communication with Centrelink to clarify any discrepancies or confusion, or any other documentation demonstrating that the recipient did not knowingly receive the overpayment.

By meeting the conditions for a waiver and providing the required evidence, recipients may be eligible to have their Centrelink debts waived due to administrative errors, ensuring that they are not unfairly burdened by overpayments caused by factors beyond their control.
III. FOI Requests
A customer can make a Freedom of Information (FOI) request with Centrelink to access their personal information, obtain documents related to Centrelink's decision-making processes, or access general information about the agency's operations. In many cases, to obtain a waiver due to administrative error, a customer may need to make an FOI request to obtain information held internally prior to initiating an debt waiver process. To make an FOI request with Centrelink, follow these steps:

1. Determine the information needed: Before making an FOI request, identify the specific information or documents you wish to access. Be as precise as possible to help Centrelink locate the relevant documents.
2. Check if the information is already available: Some information might be publicly available on the Centrelink website or through other public sources. It is advisable to check these sources before submitting an FOI request.
3. Make the request in writing: To submit an FOI request, write a letter or email that clearly states you are making a request under the Freedom of Information Act 1982. Include your full name, contact details (including postal address and phone number), a description of the documents or information you seek, and any preferred format for receiving the information (e.g., electronic or hard copy).
4. Send the request: Send your written request to the FOI team at Centrelink via email or post. The contact details for Centrelink's FOI team are as follows:

Email: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])
Post: Legal Services Branch GPO Box 9822
ACT, Australia

1. Await a response: Centrelink is required to acknowledge your FOI request within 14 days of receipt. The agency generally has 30 days to process your request and provide access to the requested documents or information. However, this timeframe may be extended in certain situations, such as if consultation with third parties is required.
2. Review the decision: If you are not satisfied with Centrelink's response or decision regarding your FOI request, you can request an internal review within 30 days of receiving the decision. If you are still dissatisfied after the internal review, you can appeal to the Australian Information Commissioner for an external review.

Keep in mind that there may be fees associated with FOI requests, depending on the nature and volume of the information sought. However, these fees may be waived or reduced in certain circumstances, such as financial hardship or if the information is in the public interest.
​
IV. The Appeal Process:
A. Internal Review

1. Request for Review: Should an individual be dissatisfied with a decision made by Centrelink, they may seek an internal review. This can be done by submitting a request using a designated form, online, or via telephone. The request ought to clearly outline the reasons for disagreement and any pertinent information that may aid in the review process.
2. Timeframe: The request for an internal review must be made within 13 weeks from the date of the original decision.
3. Possible Outcomes: Upon the conclusion of the review, the debt may be waived, reduced, or upheld.

B. External Review

1. Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT): If the individual remains dissatisfied after the internal review, they may seek an external review by appealing to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
2. Timeframe: An appeal to the AAT must be lodged within 28 days of receiving the internal review decision.
3. Legal Representation and Potential Outcomes: The individual may choose to be represented by a legal professional during the AAT proceedings. Potential outcomes of the AAT process include upholding, waiving, or reducing the debt.

C. Further Assistance

1. Free Legal Services: Individuals in need of legal assistance can access free services provided by organizations such as Legal Aid and Welfare Rights Centre.
2. Support from Financial Counsellors and Community Organizations: For further support, individuals may consult financial counsellors or seek assistance from community organizations that specialize in dealing with Centrelink debt and related matters.

Additional Resources:-
Legaslation/Guides:
https://guides.dss.gov.au/social-security-guide/6/7/3/20
https://guides.dss.gov.au/social-security-guide/6/7/3/30
http://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/ssa1991186/s1237aad.html
https://fls.org.au/law-handbook/managing-your-money/dealing-with-social-security/introduction-and-key-legislation/
Further assistance services:
Legal Aid VIC https://www.legalaid.vic.gov.au/centrelink
Economic Justice AU
https://www.ejaustralia.org.au/

Ageism and generationism, though related, are distinctly different forms of discrimination. Here, we'll outline the differences between the two to provide a clearer understanding:
1. Basis of discrimination:

• Ageism refers to discrimination or prejudice based on an individual’s chronological age, often affecting young or elderly people. It can manifest in various ways, such as workplace discrimination, limited access to resources or opportunities, or negative stereotypes about a person’s abilities due to their age.
  
• Generationism, or generationalism, refers to discrimination or prejudice based on the generational cohort an individual belongs to, such as Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, or Generation Z. This form of discrimination typically arises from generalizations or stereotypes attributed to a specific generation, regardless of the individual’s actual characteristics or beliefs.
  

2. Stereotypes and assumptions:

• Ageism tends to perpetuate negative stereotypes about people in specific age groups, often suggesting that they are less capable, less adaptable, or less deserving of respect or opportunities. For example, older adults may be viewed as technologically inept, while young people may be seen as inexperienced or entitled.
  
• Generationism involves stereotypes and assumptions about the values, attitudes, and behaviors of an entire generation. These generalizations may be based on the historical, social, or cultural context in which a generation grew up, but they often overlook the diversity and complexity of individual experiences within that cohort.
  

3. Scope:

• Ageism typically focuses on the specific age group being targeted, either younger or older individuals. It is often directly tied to the age number itself and the societal norms and expectations associated with that age.
  
• Generationism encompasses a broader range of ages within a generation, typically spanning around 15-20 years. It involves generalizations about the collective identity or experiences of a generation, rather than focusing on specific age-related attributes.
  

To summarize, ageism and generationism differ in their basis of discrimination (age versus generational cohort), the types of stereotypes and assumptions they perpetuate, and the scope of their focus. While both forms of discrimination can have harmful effects, it is crucial to recognize and address these distinctions in order to promote greater understanding and inclusivity across generations and age groups.

50 Simple tips for Beginners to Start with Facebook Advertising

1. Define your target audience: Consider factors like age, gender, location, interests, and behaviors. Example: A fitness app targets women aged 18-35 interested in health and wellness.
2. Create audience personas: Develop fictional profiles representing your ideal customers. Example: "Mike, a 28-year-old tech enthusiast looking for the latest gadgets."
3. Use Facebook's targeting options: Leverage demographic, interest, and behavioral targeting. Example: Target users interested in photography and travel for a camera backpack.
4. Test different audience segments: Run ads targeting various segments to identify high-performing ones.
5. Utilize Custom Audiences: Target existing customers, website visitors, or email subscribers.
6. Use Lookalike Audiences: Reach users similar to your existing customers or high-value prospects.
7. Exclude irrelevant audiences: Exclude users who have already converted or are not relevant to your offer.
8. Research competitors: Analyze competitors' ads and audiences to identify potential segments.
9. Monitor audience overlap: Avoid targeting the same users across multiple ad sets by adjusting targeting.
10. Set clear campaign objectives: Choose objectives like conversions, traffic, or engagement, depending on your goals.
11. Test different ad placements: Experiment with placements like News Feed, Instagram Feed, Stories, and Messenger.
12. Use Facebook Pixel or Conversions API: Track conversions and optimize campaigns based on this data.
13. Monitor ad frequency: Avoid overexposing your ads to the same audience, causing ad fatigue.
14. Optimize for the right conversion event: Choose the event that represents your campaign goal, such as purchases or leads.
15. Test bidding strategies: Experiment with the lowest cost, cost cap, and bid cap to find the best strategy.
16. Test multiple ad creatives and copy variations: Continuously test and optimize ad creatives and copy.
17. Use automated rules: Pause, start, or adjust campaigns based on specific conditions, such as CPA or ROAS thresholds.
18. Optimize ad delivery: Use Facebook's ad delivery optimization options to improve performance.
19. Experiment with ad formats and lengths: Test images, videos, and carousels, as well as different ad copy and video lengths.
20. Monitor and adjust budgets: Regularly review ad spending and adjust budgets to maximize campaign value.
21. Use ad scheduling: Run ads during specific hours or days when your audience is more likely to engage.
22. Keep headlines short and sweet: Limit headlines to 5-7 words for easy readability. Example: "50% Off Gourmet Coffee!"
23. Use numbers and symbols in headlines: Make headlines stand out with numbers and symbols. Example: "Lose 10 Pounds in 30 Days!"
24. Address pain points in headlines: Offer a solution to your audience's problems. Example: "Struggling with Acne? Try Our Serum!"
25. Create urgency in headlines: Encourage immediate action with phrases like "Limited Time Offer." Example: "Flash Sale: 3 Hours Only!"
26. Ask questions in headlines: Engage users with thought-provoking questions. Example: "Want Glowing Skin This Summer?"
27. Use powerful words in headlines: Evoke emotion with words like "amazing" or "exclusive." Example: "Unlock Incredible Fitness Results!"
28. Leverage social proof in headlines: Mention customer testimonials or reviews. Example: "Trusted by 10,000+ Professionals!"
29. Highlight benefits in headlines: Communicate product or service benefits. Example: "Stream Movies & Shows Anywhere!"
30. Test different headlines: Continuously test and optimize headlines to improve performance.
31. Keep ad copy concise: Use short sentences and bullet points for easy readability.
32. Use a conversational tone: Make your ad copy relatable and engaging by using everyday language.
33. Focus on benefits in ad copy: Highlight the unique selling points of your product or service. Example: "Our meal delivery service saves you time and provides healthy, delicious meals."
34. Include a clear call-to-action (CTA): Use phrases like "Shop Now," "Learn More," or "Sign Up" to prompt user action.
35. Use social proof in ad copy: Incorporate customer testimonials, ratings, or success stories.
36. Address potential objections: Ease user concerns with guarantees or risk-free trials. Example: "Try our software with a 14-day free trial."
37. Test different ad copy variations: Continuously optimize and improve performance through testing.
38. Use high-quality images: Ensure your images represent your product or service effectively and look professional.
39. Create short, engaging videos: Showcase product benefits, customer testimonials, or behind-the-scenes looks.
40. Experiment with ad formats: Test single images, carousels, slideshows, and video ads to find the best format.
41. Use eye-catching colors and design elements: Make your ad stand out in users' News Feeds with attention-grabbing visuals.
42. Test different ad creatives: Regularly test and optimize ad creatives to improve performance.
43. Utilize tools like AdCreative.ai: Generate ad copy ideas and inspiration with AI-powered tools.
44. Use Facebook's Audience Insights: Analyze your target audience's demographics, interests, and behaviors.
45. Leverage third-party tools like AdEspresso and Qwaya: Manage, optimize, and analyze your Facebook ad campaigns with these tools.
46. Implement tracking tools like Google Analytics: Monitor website traffic, conversions, and user behavior from your Facebook ads.
47. Use A/B testing: Experiment with ad elements such as headlines, ad copy, images, and targeting options to find the best-performing combinations.
48. Review ad performance metrics: Analyze click-through rate (CTR), cost per click (CPC), and return on ad spend (ROAS) to measure campaign success and identify areas for improvement.
49. Stay up-to-date with Facebook's ad policies: Ensure your ads remain compliant and effective by following best practices and algorithm updates.
50. Engage with your audience: Respond to comments and messages on your ads to foster relationships and improve brand perception.

By following these 50 detailed tips and examples, beginners can create effective Facebook ads from scratch. Continuously test, analyze, and optimize your campaigns to improve performance over time.

Best tools for Facebook Advertising

Here's a list of some of the best tools to help you with Facebook advertising:

1. AdCreative.ai:An AI-powered tool that generates ad copy ideas and inspiration, helping you craft compelling ad headlines and text.
2. Facebook Ads Manager: The built-in platform for managing and creating Facebook ads, with various targeting options, performance tracking, and ad scheduling.
3. Facebook Pixel: A code snippet that tracks user actions on your website, allowing you to optimize your ads, build targeted audiences, and measure the effectiveness of your campaigns.
4. Facebook Analytics: Provides in-depth insights into your ad performance, user demographics, and behaviors, helping you optimize your campaigns.
5. Facebook Audience Insights: A powerful tool that helps you better understand your target audience by providing detailed information about their interests, behaviors, and demographics.
6. AdEspresso: A comprehensive tool for managing, optimizing, and analyzing your Facebook ad campaigns. AdEspresso offers A/B testing, automated rules, and in-depth reporting.
7. Qwaya: A Facebook ad management tool with features like ad scheduling, campaign management, performance reporting, and A/B testing.
8. Canva: A user-friendly graphic design tool that helps you create eye-catching ad creatives, such as images, videos, and GIFs, without requiring professional design skills.
9. Google Analytics: A web analytics tool that tracks website traffic, conversions, and user behavior from your Facebook ads, providing valuable insights for campaign optimization.
10. Hootsuite Ads: A social media advertising tool that simplifies the process of creating, managing, and optimizing Facebook ad campaigns.
11. Connectio: Offers a suite of Facebook ad tools, including ConnectAudience (for audience targeting), ConnectRetarget (for retargeting campaigns), and ConnectExplore (for interest targeting).
12. Madgicx: An AI-driven Facebook advertising platform that automates the entire ad lifecycle, including ad creation, budget allocation, targeting, and optimization.
13. Revealbot: A Facebook ad automation tool that helps you manage campaigns with automated rules, performance monitoring, and reporting.
14. Driftrock: A platform that syncs your CRM data with Facebook Custom Audiences, allowing you to create highly targeted ads based on your customer data.

These tools can help you create, manage, and optimize your Facebook ad campaigns, ensuring better targeting, improved ad creatives, and more effective use of your advertising budget. Choose the tools that best fit your needs and budget, and integrate them into your Facebook advertising strategy.

Ageism and generationism, though related, are distinctly different forms of discrimination. Here, we'll outline the differences between the two to provide a clearer understanding:
1. Basis of discrimination:

• Ageism refers to discrimination or prejudice based on an individual’s chronological age, often affecting young or elderly people. It can manifest in various ways, such as workplace discrimination, limited access to resources or opportunities, or negative stereotypes about a person’s abilities due to their age.
  
• Generationism, or generationalism, refers to discrimination or prejudice based on the generational cohort an individual belongs to, such as Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, or Generation Z. This form of discrimination typically arises from generalizations or stereotypes attributed to a specific generation, regardless of the individual’s actual characteristics or beliefs.
  

2. Stereotypes and assumptions:

• Ageism tends to perpetuate negative stereotypes about people in specific age groups, often suggesting that they are less capable, less adaptable, or less deserving of respect or opportunities. For example, older adults may be viewed as technologically inept, while young people may be seen as inexperienced or entitled.
  
• Generationism involves stereotypes and assumptions about the values, attitudes, and behaviors of an entire generation. These generalizations may be based on the historical, social, or cultural context in which a generation grew up, but they often overlook the diversity and complexity of individual experiences within that cohort.
  

3. Scope:

• Ageism typically focuses on the specific age group being targeted, either younger or older individuals. It is often directly tied to the age number itself and the societal norms and expectations associated with that age.
  
• Generationism encompasses a broader range of ages within a generation, typically spanning around 15-20 years. It involves generalizations about the collective identity or experiences of a generation, rather than focusing on specific age-related attributes.
  

To summarize, ageism and generationism differ in their basis of discrimination (age versus generational cohort), the types of stereotypes and assumptions they perpetuate, and the scope of their focus. While both forms of discrimination can have harmful effects, it is crucial to recognize and address these distinctions in order to promote greater understanding and inclusivity across generations and age groups.

Hi all! To start, let me just say I'm a novice. I've been teaching myself some Excel stuff and feel like I've done well, but this one has got me scratching my head.
I have an Excel Table full of raw data from players' match results in a game. The first two columns are the player names. Every two columns afterward is each player's score for a single round. (P1's round 1 score, P2's round 1 score, P1's round 2 score, P2's round 2 score, and so on.) In most basic terms, I need a formula that determines how many matches, not just rounds, a player has won. It needs to:

1. Check if column A matches the player name in question.
2. If so, add up how many times C>D, E>F, etc. (How many rounds P1 won.)
3. Now how many times C
4. If number of rounds won > lost, return "true" (Or "1", or whatever. Point is, did P1 win this matchup overall?)
5. Add up how many total rows in the table returned "true". This sum is the number I'm trying to display in the cell. (How many matchups has P1 won in total?)

Alternatively... if it's easier to compare the 2nd-to-last value in each row against the last value, that might be a faster way to determine the winner of a matchup, since whoever won the last round will also have won the whole thing. I don't know if there's a way to do that, or if it would be easier than the above.
I've tried a ton of functions but none have quite achieved what I need and I can't seem to find the right combination. I'm honestly at a loss at this point, so any help is appreciated!!