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Grandview, MO officially added to list of Google Fiber cities
Google has officially announced that Grandview, Missouri is next in line for the search engine-provided Gigabit Fiber Internet service. No timetable for deployment has been announced, with the company saying that "it will still be a while" before the fiber deployment begins and customers can subscribe to the services.
Google continues iOS subterfuge with Chrome API for iOS
Shortly after updating its GMail iOS app to allow it to link directly to Chrome and other Google apps as needed, the search and ad giant is now offering Chrome for iOS integration tools to developers that allow them to specify Chrome as the browser to use for in-app web interaction, bypassing Safari unless Chrome is not already installed. The tools can give developers the option of using Chrome or asking the user if they would like to open a link in Chrome rather than Safari. It's not yet clear if the changes represent any breach of Apple's iOS guidelines.
OS X-only LightSpeed point-of-sale software updated
Retail technologist LightSpeed today�announced the launch of StoreMaster, enabling Macintosh users to track real-time data across all sales channels, manage inventory levels, and process invoices and shipments from one control panel. Its new customizable Dashboard delivers up-to-the-minute metrics in easy-to-read graphs, assisting stores in reaching sales goals and performance monitoring.
Microsoft updates Office 2011, adds Office365 compatibility
A new update is available for Microsoft Office 2011, the most recent version of the widely-used office suite. Version 14.3.4 addresses numerous issues and bugs, adds a needed font for sharing documents, and most importantly further refines the interoperability of the Office 365 initiative, allowing the option for users to jump to the subscription version of Office if they want. In addition, the new version adds the built-in option of saving files to SkyDrive and SharePoint in Microsoft Word.
Greenlight CEO Einhorn grows stake in Apple stock, cites buyback
In Greenlight Capital Investor's quarterly earnings conference call, Chairman David Einhorn revealed that he has grown his stake in the company. The move was made in reaction to Apple's announcement of the $100 billion share repurchase, and record-breaking dividend program which he called "a major step forward" for the Cupertino manufacturer.
Briefly: Rhapsody, Scosche headphones, Humble Double Fine Bundle
Music service Rhapsody has implemented a new \"liner notes\" feature, implementing the RIAA\'s \"Give Fans the Credit\" plan for including detailed production information with each digital song, including songwriters, background performers, producers and engineers involved in the production. The rollout, scheduled to take place over the next few months, would allow fans to search for music in new ways, such as tracking songs a specific producer was involved in, or for example finding out which songs featured a specific group of sidemen. The service has already started curating collections of tunes grouped by notable names of either producers, engineers or composers.
BitTorrent shows new transfer protocol, enables paid content
File-sharing network BitTorrent has revealed a "direct-to-fan" collaboration with music label Ultra. Using a new protocol called the BitTorrent Bundle, an interaction by the downloader -- such as providing information or even paying for the content -- is required before unlocking restricted content. The mechanism for secure distribution is embedded within the protocol, and compatible with existing BitTorrent clients.
Electronista's 2013 Mother's Day tech gift guide
Mother's Day is a special sort of day where we get to give back to the woman that gave us life. This special day is right around the corner -- but you knew that already, right? Of course, the reason you haven't gotten a gift yet is because you're looking for just the perfect one. Ah, but what's the thing to get for such a woman? Electronista took a look at the latest and greatest in consumer tech to figure out what you should get good ol' Mom in order to one-up all your siblings -- who went the flowers-and-chocolate route.
Viber releases Mac, Windows versions of VoIP client
VoIP service Viber has released new Mac and Windows versions of its client software. Previously the app was only available for mobile platforms, such as iOS, Android, BlackBerry, and Windows Phone. The Desktop software incorporates all the features of the iOS app, such as instant messaging, contact sync, group chats, and shared histories.
Aaron Greenspan sues most of Silicon Valley over money transfer laws
Frequent litigant Aaron Greenspan, one-time claimant to Facebook co-foundership has filed a lawsuit against the vast majority of Silicon Valley's largest investors, and many Internet companies offering "money services businesses" with cash transfers as a primary product. The list of corporate defendants include frequent Greenspan target Facebook, Airbnb, Dwolla, and Square, troubled BitCoin exchange Mt. Gox, and many others. Individuals named in the suit inlude Paypal founder Max Levchin, Airbnb creator Brian Chesky, billionaire Yuri Milner, and Reddit CEO Yishan Wong.
Microsoft extends revenue-per-search guarantee to Yahoo for one year
Microsoft has extended its revenue guarantee with Yahoo, according to an SEC filing. The revenue-per-search guarantee, part of the ten-year deal the two companies struck in 2009, will be extended by one additional year, allowing Yahoo to earn more revenue than it otherwise would have if the guarantee fully elapsed.
Chromium for Mac gets early version of notification center
The Chrome OS notification center -- already in the Windows releases of Chromium and Chrome Canary -- is in the process of being ported to the Mac version of Chromium, says Google\'s Fran�ois Beaufort. The Chromium evangelist points to a logged Chromium issue titled \"[Mac][MC] Implement notification updates and relayouts.\" He comments that the Mac version of the notification center is still \"under heavy development,\" but that it can already be toggled on by running Chrome with an \"--enable-rich-notifications\" switch.
Forums: dead pixels, blown usb ports and more
Yesterday in the MacNN forums, members tried to help one concerned Fresh-Faced Recruit figure out reasons why white and black lines might show up across the screen of their iPhone 3GS. Also yesterday, one Forum Regular was having some trouble with a flickering external monitor attached to their 15-inch rMBP with a mini-display port cable, and they turned to the forums for some advice.
Apple deals: Mac mini and Mac Pro
This week, Apple's online store has lowered prices on a range of Mac mini and Mac Pro models. The refurb'd Mac mini with OS X Server, a 2.0GHz Intel quad-core i7 processor, 4GB of RAM and dual 500GB hard drives has been reduced by $240, bringing the cost down to $759. For $1,099 is the refurbished Mac mini with OS X Server, a 2.0GHz Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM and 256GB of solid state storage.
DealNN: Retina MBP cut to $1,599
At MacMall.com this week, save 27 percent on the 13.3-inch Retina MacBook Pro which has been reduced by $600 -- from $2,200 down to $1,600. This MacBook Pro features a 2.9GHz Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB of RAM and 256GB of flash storage along with a Retina display, Intel HD graphics, and built-in FaceTime Camera. A one-year warranty on parts and labor is included from Apple.
Briefly: YouTube Trends Map, YouTube app update for Windows Phone
Google has created a new map that shows videos trending on YouTube by area. The Trends Map displays the most popular videos being viewed in major markets across the US, with the added option of viewing the top videos in areas by age band and gender. While it is covering the United States initially, the YouTube Trends blog states that there are updates due in future, which could include providing data on regional viewing habits in other countries.
Toshiba first to have range of DivX Plus Streaming-certified TVs in UK
Rovi has revealed that Toshiba will be the first television manufacturer to launch a range of DivX Plus Streaming-certified HDTVs. The addition of DivX Plus Streaming to the televisions will allow users to watch streaming content with typical features found in DVD and Blu-ray Disc usage, such as support for multi-language subtitles and audio tracks.
iOS 6 security gets FIPS 140-2 Level 1 certification
A cryptographic component in iOS 6 has received FIPS (Federal Information Processing Standard) 140-2 Level 1 security certification from the US National Institute of Standards and Technology, says TUAW. In particular, the NIST says that when running in FIPS mode, iOS 6\'s CoreCrypto Kernel Module 3.0 \"generates cryptographic keys whose strengths are modified by available entropy.\" The module is identified as \"a software cryptographic module running on a multi-chip standalone mobile device and provides services intended to protect data in transit and at rest.\"
Rumor: Camera test, specifications of Sony C1905 smartphone surface
Details of a new mid-ranged smartphone from Sony has appeared online, complete with an alleged test of its 5-megapixel camera. The C1905 is said to be an Android Jelly Bean-based phone that will form part of the Xperia range, and will sit alongside the Xperia L in the company's product catalog, with the leak coming shortly after claimed specifications of the camera-oriented Xperia i1 Honami were reported.
German court rules against Apple data privacy terms
A Berlin court has struck down eight provisions in Apple\'s terms of use for data because they violate German law, Bloomberg reports, citing local consumer group Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband (VZBV). The ruling states that Apple can\'t ask for \"global consent\" to use personal data, including location information. Previous to the decision, Apple had already signed a binding agreement that it wouldn\'t use seven of the 15 provisions VZBV objected to prior to the lawsuit. Today\'s judgment invalidates the remaining eight, although Apple can appeal if it chooses.
Briefly: Google Drive desktop sharing, Rovio game progress syncing
Google has expanded the functionality of its Google Drive desktop app to simplify the process of sharing documents. Thanks to the most recent update, Google Drive files can now be shared with others directly from a Mac or PC\'s file system by right clicking on the file. The update is currently being rolled out to all users and may not show up immediately.
WD uses SanDisk iSSD flash in 5mm-thick solid state hybrid drives
Western Digital has revealed it is working with SanDisk for its 5mm (0.2-inches) thick solid state hybrid drives (SSHD) that it revealed last month. The WD Black SSHD storage, aimed at notebook manufacturers aiming to create thinner devices, uses SanDisk's flash memory technology for the solid-state portion, which works alongside the WD-created hard disk.
iOS grows gap over Android in US mobile web traffic
iOS made significant gains in US mobile web traffic during April, according to Investing Analytics data obtained by Piper Jaffray. The platform reached a 69 percent share, up from 66.4 percent in March. The growth primarily at the expense of Android, which declined from 28.7 percent in March to 26.5.
Leak: Huawei P6-U06 photographs show 6.18mm thickness, metal trim
Huawei is preparing an extremely thin smartphone for release, according to recently-surfaced photographs. Three shots of a device alleged to be the Huawei P6-U06 have appeared, showing a minimalist front display without physical buttons, and a metal edging on the sides that bears a passing resemblance to that of the iPhone 5.
NPD anticipates Retina iPad mini display production in June or July
Production of Retina displays for a new iPad mini should start in June or July, says NPD DisplaySearch analyst Richard Shim. Elaborating, Shim claims that LG Display will be the parts\' major producer, and that Samsung will continue to be omitted from the Mini display chain. \"Samsung is currently not in the iPad mini and they won\'t be in the next generation. LGD is becoming a much bigger supplier than before,\" he says.
AT&T Beam USB modem offers 4G LTE connectivity, built-in LCD screen
AT&T has added to its range of 4G LTE connectivity devices with a built-in display. The AT&T Beam from Sierra Wireless is a USB modem that connects to the carrier's 4G LTE network, and like the MiFi Liberate, it comes with its own LCD panel to provide important details, such as the strength of the signal and how much data is remaining in the monthly allowance.
Sony Japan reveals new Vaio Fit notebook range, due mid-May in US
Sony Japan has revealed a new lineup of notebooks for 2013 that also carry new branding. The new �Fit� series encompasses a wide range of notebooks that the company is targeting at "students and business users who are looking for a step up and want more of a premium design but still at an entry-level price point." The 14- and 15-inch touchscreen notebooks also span a wide price range, starting at $550 with the high end models topping out at $2,210.
SoftBank CEO promotes 4G expertise ahead of Sprint shareholder vote
SoftBank's CEO is continuing to talk-up his company's $20.1 billion offer to buy out Sprint, by claiming SoftBank's experience with 4G will help the US carrier. Network enhancements, such as SoftBank's single frequency network technology for reducing interference, will help Sprint in the long run alongside other benefits, according to CEO Masayoshi Son.
Windows 8 sales pass 100M, MS talks Windows Blue
Microsoft Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Financial Officer Tami Reller has revealed that Windows 8 licenses sold has now passed the 100 million mark, six months after its launch. This is said to include installations on new PCs and tablets, as well as upgrades to Windows 8. Reller didn�t reveal the breakdown of Windows 8 licenses, which includes Windows RT sales, but did say that there are now 2,400 devices certified to run its controversial new operating system.
Nokia Lumia 928 confirmed via Vanity Fair ad, Lumia 925 rumored
Another confirmation for the existence of the Nokia Lumia 928 has surfaced, in the guise of a magazine advertisement. The promotion in Vanity Fair and accompanying product page arrives at the same time as rumors that the Lumia 928 will not be the only device launched at a Nokia media event being held in London on May 14th.
Rumor: Apple plans more than one low-cost iPhone model
A parts supplier with a good track record of providing advance information on smartphones is now saying that it has heard that Apple is planning more than just a single model of the so-called \"low-cost\" iPhone. The rumored phone, which has been speculated on for over a year, is said to be aimed at developing markets where pre-paid phones and plans dominate and is thought to be largely plastic-based, but have most of the same functionality as current iPhone models -- but cost around $330-$400, as much as 50 percent less than the off-contract price of a current iPhone.
Report: iOS app has accidental malware, but not a threat to users
A bit of malware -- a Trojan horse file that tries to redirect to a website -- has been found inside an iOS app, but the code has turned out to be harmless. The app in question is called Simply Find It ($2) and comes from a legitimate developer that has produced a number of legitimate games -- suggesting that the malware was probably inserted into the app accidentally. The bigger issue (since there is no direct threat posed by the bad code) is how Apple\'s testing procedure missed it -- and how two well-known anti-malware scanners couldn\'t pick up on it either.
Now AAPL Stock: 136.71 ( + 0.01 )
Cirrus creates Lightning-headphone dev kit
Apple supplier Cirrus Logic has introduced a MFi-compliant new development kit for companies interested in using Cirrus' chips to create Lightning-based headphones, which -- regardless of whether rumors about Apple dropping the analog headphone jack in its iPhone this fall -- can offer advantages to music-loving iOS device users. The kit mentions some of the advantages of an all-digital headset or headphone connector, including higher-bitrate support, a more customizable experience, and support for power and data transfer into headphone hardware. Several companies already make Lightning headphones, and Apple has supported the concept since June 2014. http://bit.ly/29giiZj
Apple Store app offers Procreate Pocket
The Apple Store app for iPhone, which periodically rewards users with free app gifts, is now offering the iPhone "Pocket" version of drawing app Procreate for those who have the free Apple Store app until July 28. Users who have redeemed the offer by navigating to the "Stores" tab of the app and swiping past the "iPhone Upgrade Program" banner to the "Procreate" banner have noted that only the limited Pocket (iPhone) version of the app is available free, even if the Apple Store app is installed and the offer redeemed on an iPad. The Pocket version currently sells for $3 on the iOS App Store. [32.4MB]
Porsche adds CarPlay to 2017 Panamera
Porsche has added a fifth model of vehicle to its CarPlay-supported lineup, announcing that the 2017 Panamera -- which will arrive in the US in January -- will include Apple's infotainment technology, and be seen on a giant 12.3-inch touchscreen as part of an all-new Porsche Communication Management system. The luxury sedan starts at $99,900 for the 4S model, and scales up to the Panamera Turbo, which sells for $146,900. Other vehicles that currently support CarPlay include the 2016 911 and the 2017 models of Macan, 718 Boxster, and 718 Cayman. The company did not mention support for Google's corresponding Android Auto in its announcement. http://bit.ly/295ZQ94
Apple employees testing wheelchair features
New features included in the forthcoming watchOS 3 are being tested by Apple retail store employees, including a new activity-tracking feature that has been designed with wheelchair users in mind. The move is slightly unusual in that, while retail employees have previously been used to test pre-release versions of OS X and iOS, this marks the first time they've been included in the otherwise developer-only watchOS betas. The company is said to have gone to great lengths to modify the activity tracker for wheelchair users, including changing the "time to stand" notification to "time to roll" and including two wheelchair-centric workout apps. http://bit.ly/2955JDa
SanDisk reveals two 256GB microSDXC cards
SanDisk has introduced two 256GB microSDXC cards. Arriving in August for $150, the Ultra microSDXC UHS-I Premium Edition card offers transfer speeds of up to 95MB/s for reading data. The Extreme microSDXC UHS-I card can read at a fast 100MB/s and write at up to 90MB/s, and will be shipping sometime in the fourth quarter for $200. http://bit.ly/294Q1If
Apple's third-quarter results due July 26
Apple has advised it will be issuing its third-quarter results on July 26, with a conference call to answer investor and analyst queries about the earnings set to take place later that day. The stream of the call will go live at 2pm PT (5pm ET) via Apple's investor site, with the results themselves expected to be released roughly 30 minutes before the call commences. Apple's guidance for the quarter put revenue at between $41 billion and $43 billion. http://apple.co/1oi1Pbm
Twitter stickers slowly roll out to users
Twitter has introduced "stickers," allowing users to add extra graphical elements to their photos before uploading them to the micro-blogging service. A library of hundreds of accessories, props, and emoji will be available to use as stickers, which can be resized, rotated, and placed anywhere on the photograph. Images with stickers will also become searchable with viewers able to select a sticker to see how others use the same graphic in their own posts. Twitter advises stickers will be rolling out to users over the next few weeks, and will work on both the mobile apps and through the browser. http://bit.ly/29bbwUE


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A Wikipedia entry comparing the rising Labour star Chuka Umunna to President Obama was created using a computer at the law firm where the MP once worked, it has emerged.
The Shadow Business Secretary, tipped as a future Labour leader, was unable to deny that he was the source of the flattering addition, which was published in 2008, before he entered Parliament.
The Evening Standard discovered web records which showed that a computer registered to solicitors Rochman Landau, Mr Umunna's employer from 2006 onwards, added an article to his Wikipedia profile which said he "may end up as the UK's Barack Obama".
Wikipedia's code of conduct says users should not edit the site to promote their own interests or those of their employers.
When asked about the Obama comparison, in a 2011 newspaper interview, the MP said: "It annoys me a bit. You get lazy journalists and the odd blogger who'll suggest that I fancy myself as 'Britain's Obama' and that I seek to encourage the comparison. It's never been something I've encouraged."
When asked if he had made the Wikipedia change himself, Mr Umunna issued a statement via a spokesman. It read: "This change was made over half a decade ago. Chuka has no record or recollection of having a log-in for Wikipedia or having edited it. Though staff have had to make corrections for racist vandalism of the page in the past."
It was claimed this week that Mr Umunna may have created his own lengthy profile on Wikipedia in 2007 under a pseudonym, "Socialdemocrat". Mr Umunna said he had no recollection of this log-in.
Previously it emerged that the former club DJ had used an alias on an exclusive social networking site to ask for advice on how to avoid "trash" on nights out.
Mr Umunna admitted he was a member of ASmallWorld, which is known as "MySpace for Millionaires", under a pseudonym, but has now left it.
Keith Simpson, Conservative MP, said: "I don't know if he has made the change. However, the trouble with changing one's own profile page on Wikipedia is that it's rather like an internet facelift; you can always see the stretch marks."Reuse content

subset: commoncrawl


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100% silicone stack and play toy. Soft and flexible shapes are safe for babies to sort, stack, and chew.
Sorting and stacking shapes help babies with fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and introduces counting and colours.
Please note that free shipping does not apply to sale or clearance items and shipping charges for these items will be calculated after the order has been placed. If for some reason your order does not qualify for free shipping or free shipping has been calculated in error we will contact via email or phone.
Sale, Clearance and Promotional items are all final sale items and cannot be returned or exchanged. For safety, health & hygienic reasons, some products are final sale. These products include, but are not limited to: Car Seats, Hygiene items, potties, nursing bras and intimate items, pacifiers and teethers, skin care products and special order items.
Special orders are items that we do not have in our inventory and have an estimated order lead time. All special order and furniture items are final sales and cannot be cancelled. Once the items have been paid and ordered, they cannot be returned and are a final sale.
You will be informed of the estimated order time for your items prior to completing the special order. Delivery times are estimated and not guaranteed. Please note that estimates are given based on information given by the supplier; WestCoast Kids is not responsible for supplier delays or back orders. As soon as the order arrives in store you will be contacted or it will be shipped to you.
Signup for the WCK Newsletter for special offers, Deal of the Day and much more!
Sign up for WCK News and be the first to know about our special promotions,
both in store and online, as well as new arrivals and current events!


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Complete Magento SIte
This project received 55 bids from talented freelancers with an average bid price of $642 USD.Get free quotes for a project like this
Project Budget$250 - $750 USD
Total Bids55
Project Description
I have a website that needs to be completed.
I need to do bulk price percentage increases of each category for 2014 calender year. Please add a good freeware plugin that can do this task efficiently. I found one but maybe you know of a better one. [url removed, login to view]
I am interested in information on how to change the motion changing image under the header on the home page.
[url removed, login to view]
I am interested in shifting payment method from in-house to 3rd party payment processor. I do not want to risk having personal info disseminated.
I have included an image describing how I want the header and the sidebar to be changed.
The last time we spoke you said my hostgator account was for a different site, but that doesnt appear to be the case, please confirm.
Skills Required
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Nascent Force Mens Hoodie
Abstract work, nascent force, this work had an interesting journey into the world, whilst working on the image for a few hours the image you see appeared by its' self !
We print all Hoodies using the latest DTG print technology and highest quality inks to ensure a superior print quality and a lasting finish. The double fabric hood with self-coloured drawcord and a front kangaroo pouch pocket makes this Hoodie just perfect.
Shipping is £3.99 globally on orders less than £30. Shipping is FREE for all orders over £30. Orders are delivered within 5-7 business days. If you have a query about delivery for a product which you have already ordered, please contact us.
If you don't absolutely love it, we'll take it back!
If you're not happy with your order, please contact us as soon as possible. In all cases we'll ask you to provide photographs of the item, including a close up of any tags/labels. To help us respond to you quickly, please include the order number in your message to us.
We have a money-back satisfaction guarantee, so whatever the problem, we're happy to work with you to fix it.


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A/N: Im back! From a long writers block from hell…. Ugh. Well I had a random idea tell me what you think..
Disclaimer: I own nothing! I swear! It all goes to Stephanie Meyer.
It was a cold autumn night, the wailing child shivered convulsively against the wind. Artemis clutched the baby closer to her chest, and hurried across the street to a dark house.
"Hurry Artemis we haven't much time." Her brother, Apollo said in harsh whispers.
"Calm down we've got plenty of time. She's not asleep yet." She cooed.
"Artemis, the moon is almost in a full eclipse, he could come find her."
"I want to spend a little more time with her, please Apollo, let me have these last few moments with my daughter."
"Fine but please hurry"
Artemis rocked the child and hummed an unfamiliar lullaby until the child was in deep slumber. She placed a kiss on her forehead and placed her in the woven basket Apollo placed in front of the door.
"Until we meet again next time my sweet, darling, Isabella." She whispered. Quickly she rang the doorbell and hurried in the shadows.
"Im going to miss her terribly Apollo. What if I don't ever see her again?"
"You will, just not now. Its not safe for either of you."
"How can you be so sure?"
"Just trust me. Now come on, we have a long journey back to Olympus."
With one single tear, Artemis watched as the couple picked up the baby and the basket, and fled with Apollo.
A/N: well what do you think? Is it bad or good? R&R please!


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As we edge ever closer to the day we've been counting down to ever since Philip Lahm lofted the World Cup above his head, we decided it was time to bring back our alternative Premier League tables.
Every week we will find a new angle to bring you a refreshed league table. And seeing as we're in the middle of the transfer window we have decided to bring you the 'summer net spending league table'.
Who has been counting the pennies and who has been splashing the cash?
As much as you want your club to be busy shopping for new players, that isn't how our table works. We're not rewarding reckless buys - it is shrewd sales and Bosman deals that get you points.
Financial fair play is now an ever present part of the game, so protecting your club's future is vital. Southampton may have taken it a little far by selling their entire squad, but being over 60m in profit looks nice in the bank.
Manchester United fans are sat at home refreshing Twitter and tearing their hair out praying for signings; but it's you who sit at the foot our table. After signing Herrera and Shaw, but with no significant sales, you're 50 big ones in the red as it stands…


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Political Signs Must Go!
ED Magedson – Founder
Ripoff Report
Best Buy7601 Penn Avenue, South Richfield, MN 55423 Frederick, Maryland USA
Best Buy Christopher Patterson - Jamie Freedy - Dan Ridings - John Anderson - Open Box Scam - Promised Free Repair - Lies Lies Lies! Frederick Maryland
Does your business have a bad reputation?
Fix it the right way.
Corporate Advocacy Program™
In my opinion Best Buy, Shawn Score, Jamie Freedy, Christopher Patterson (Frederick Maryland Store), Daniel Ridings (Frederick MD store), and John Anderson (Frederick Md store) are all scam artists!!!
I purchased an open box refrigerator in June 2010. Compressor Died.
When I called the manufacturer they made me aware that they manufactured this serial numbered unit in March of 2005 and shipped it to Best Buy shorthly thereafter. BUT THEY SOLD IT TO ME JUNE 2010. 5 YEARS LATER. 5 YEARS OLD. USED JUNK.
If I wanted a 5 year old garbage fridge I would have shopped Craigslist!
After it broke I spent two weeks going round and round with Best Buy explaining that selling me a 5 year old model was a total misrepresentation.
First the store manager Christopher Patterson promised the store would pay the cost of the repair and send Geek Squat out to fix it. But when Geek Squad got there several days later, oddly the repairman had no replacement parts with him. Then he made up some BS story that there were parts missing. Amazing!!! I believe they would go to any extreme NOT TO REPAIR MY REFRIGERATOR.
I spoke to Shawn Score's assistant Jamie Freedy at their corporate headquarters and she said that open box can mean the unit is many years old. She said I WAS OUT OF LUCK! BEST BUY WOULD DO NOTHING. NOT EVEN REPAIR IT AS PROMISED. UNBELIEVABLE!!!
This report was posted on Ripoff Report on 10/23/2013 02:31 PM and is a permanent record located here: http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/best-buy/frederick-maryland-21704/best-buy-christopher-patterson-jamie-freedy-dan-ridings-john-anderson-open-box-sc-1094127. The posting time indicated is Arizona local time. Arizona does not observe daylight savings so the post time may be Mountain or Pacific depending on the time of year.
Ripoff Report has an exclusive license to this report. It may not be copied without the written permission of Ripoff Report. READ: Foreign websites steal our content
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Artikelnummer : 13A0000.1.1
Artikelnummer : DR1671151008-PPR
The Truth is designed for powerful turns and quick response. Morr-Rock™ Rocker gives the Truth a skate like feel for popping big ollies and landing tricks. The SPT sidewalls absorb and dampen bumps as you ride. The Truth is the ultimate do-everything snowboard.
- Morr-Rock™ Rocker profile for ease in landing tricks
- Twin tip shape for freestyle or freeride performance
- SPT sidewall for top performance and a smoother ride
- 360° Edge protection, the strongest edge around
- Die-cut base for durability, speed and performance
- Aggressive Radial Sidecut for quicker, more powerful turns
- Full-length Binary Core™ with Biaxial glass
- Twin tip flex is consistent riding switch or standard
- MORRROCK ROCKER : Our new Rocker profile has been added to all our models. Morr-Rock™ provides ease in turning and landing tricks as well as a loose, surfy feel in powder. Morr-Rock is flat between the inserts, with a 3mm rise from the inserts to the contacts. Get ready to Rock!
- BINARY CORE™: Designed specifically for the freestyle rider looking for adependable, strong and responsive core. Twin tip flex for consistent turnsriding switch or standard. Whether stomping backcountry booters or shralping rails, the Binary Core is our top-level core construction.
- WOOD CORES: Wood is Good. We use sustainably harvested Aspen in our cores. All of our boards have tip-to-tail wood cores for durability and pop.
- 360 DEGREE EDGE: CNC formed steel edge wraps the perimeter of the boardfor extra durability and control. It's formed at a controlled temperature to maintain a consistent 48 Rockwell hardness rating.
- DIE-CUT BASES: Our die-cut bases are vibrant and lightweight. Morrow boardsuse a 1000-grade extruded base for a fast and smooth ride.
- B2 FIBERGLASS: We use biaxial fiberglass for a smooth, forgiving ride.Biaxial fiberglass is cross-woven for extra strength, durability and flex. Our new Rocker profile has been added to our entire board line. Morr-Rock™ provides ease in turning and landing tricks as well as a loose, surfy feel in powder. Morr-Rock™ is flat between the inserts, with a 3mm rise from the inserts to the contacts. Get ready to Rock!
- SIDEWALL CONSTRUCTION: For a smooth ride, check out our SPT sidewallboards designed for those looking for the ultimate in a powerful, high performance stick with excellent pop and control.
- UV PROTECT: All of our boards have an ultraviolet (UV) coating on the topsheet for a deep wet look as well as protection from old Sol fading the tasty graphics. SPF = 30,000,000
|Mitte (mm)
|Radius (m)
|Gewicht (g)
The Jade was designed to deliver incredible response and unrivaled comfort whist remaining lightweight.
Our Ladyfit Highback has been specifically engineered for Women, with a smaller, contoured shape with a highly responsive flex.
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Die Marke wurde 1992 in den USA gegründet. Morrow hat in ihren Anfängen 1994 und 1997 mit ihren Fahrern wie Matt Goodwill, King Of The Hill, die Geschichte des Snowboards geprägt. Seitdem haben sich die Zeiten geändert. "Performance, Haltbarkeit, Style und Wert", das sind die Eigenschaften der Produkte, die Morrow in ihrer neuen Version anbietet.


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Breathing New Life into Old Books – Brian Dettmer What can you do with an old book, which no longer serves you? You donate it to the poor? Other life sustaining donations would be more welcome. Recycle it? Yes, this is the answer. But there are various ways to recycle a book. You can hand it over to a paper collection company to turn it into pulp and make new paper out of it. - See more at…
Knolling – The Trend That Kills Creativity Here's what we have noticed recently: knolling. At first, we though it's just a passing fad, like the mosquito season in summer. But apparently we were wrong. Knolling is on the rise and seems to be here to stay for a while. Therefore, it is our duty to investigate it a bit. - See more at: http://vectorvice.com/Blog/2015/02/knolling-the-trend-that-kills-creativity/
How to Blend Creativity with Practicality in Brochure Design Designing for print, though playing second fiddle to web design these days, is still a very lucrative field of work for graphic designers. And, in some ways, it provides more freedom in terms of creativity than web design, because you can always get creative not just with the graphic part, but also with the materials it will be printed…
Should Designers Read the Book Before Creating a Cover? - See more at: http://vectorvice.com/Blog/2015/02/should-designers-read-the-book-before-creating-a-cover/
The Art of Omri Koresh – Giving a Human Face to Mythical Characters It is not an easy job to create believable portraits of fantastic characters from books and mythology. However, this difficulty did not stop illustrator Omri Koresh from trying, and our opinion is that he succeeded to put a face on famous mythical names. http://vectorvice.com/Blog/2015/02/the-art-of-omri-koresh-giving-a-human-face-to-mythical-characters/
Designing a fire safety poster is not very difficult, but it does not mean that we cannot make it as visually appealing as we can. Its purpose is to save lives, and it can accomplish that if it does attract people's attention and makes them pay attention to it. This tutorial will show you how to create a well designed fire safety poster in Adobe Illustrator - See more at: http://vectorvice.com/Blog/2015/03/how-to-design-a-fire-safety-poster/
How To Ease Website Visitors' Frustration with Well Designed 404 Pages - See more at: http://vectorvice.com/Blog/2015/03/how-to-ease-website-visitors-frustration-with-well-designed-404-pages/
Should You Design Ads That Mock Competition? It goes like this: you got a contract to design a product marketing campaign and the client specifies in the brief that they want the ad to be targeted at their top competitor's product. Basically, you should design an ad mocking the competitor and show how superior your client's products are. - See more at: http://vectorvice.com/Blog/2015/03/should-you-design-ads-that-mock-competition/
Why Every Graphic Designer Should Have a Blog? Blogging is more than a trend these days. It is not something you do for fun. Some people live off the affiliate links on their blogs. Other become internet VIPs because of their blogs. What a graphic designer gets out of maintaining a personal blog is very valuable for their career – either as freelancers, or employed by a design company.
How to Use Negative Space Efficiently – Examples from Famous Logos Everything matters in great design, including negative space. Probably it is one of the most widely ignored technique to make a design piece stand out and continually stir interest and emotions. If you design on a daily basis for simple ads and short-term campaigns, this aspect will not matter very much. Sales and marketing campaigns come and go like the ocean tides.


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Villa Can Maries
Venda de Sport Sant Miquel de Balasant, Sant Joan de Labritja, Ibiza 07815, Spain
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Property Location Located in Sant Joan de Labritja, Villa Can Maries is in a rural location and convenient to Cova de Can Marca and Benirras Beach. This hotel is within the region of Sa Torreta and San Rafael Racetrack. Rooms Make yourself at home in one of the air-conditioned guestrooms. Rec, Spa, Premium Amenities Pamper yourself with onsite massages or enjoy recreation amenities such as an outdoor pool. This hotel also features babysitting/childcare, shopping on site, and wedding services. Dining Enjoy a satisfying meal at a restaurant serving guests of Villa Can Maries.
Venda de Sport Sant Miquel de Balasant Sant Joan de Labritja, Ibiza 07815, Spain


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"Mizuno MP-630 Driver Slightly open at address, with powerful pear shaped profile and thumping feedback, the MP-630 inspires imagination from the tee. While designed to suit the eye of stronger players, the shallower design, 445cc size and range of lofts will inspire a broad range of abilities. Sizzling ball speeds are generated by the HOT METAL 6-4Ti face, coupling the MP-630s shot-making prowess with explosive distances. A penetrating flight generated from the MP-630s multi-piece construction and low COG, ensure that the increases in ball speed are efficiently converted into additional yardage. The slightly open face is complemented by a neutral flight bias, giving powerful ball strikers the confidence to release through impact without a tendency to hook. Features • Tour Ready Profile : Modern 445cc pear shape with open face • Pre-set weighting: Internal weighting set to neutral • Low shallow COG: Low spin and penetrating, workable ball flight • HOT METAL 6-4Ti FACE: Maximum ball speed and increased COR AREA • CORTECH Face design: Multi thickness to enhance off centre strikes • Frequency Tuned: Sound / vibration set for maximum feedback Specs Club Loft Lie Volume Length 9.5 9.5 58.5 445cc 45.0 10.5 10.5 58.0 445cc 45.0 Shaft 64 gram MRC Fubuki"
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Well i love online games and azurke and arragon are my best friends on roblox i really love shooting and fighting games. Read More
Rukiryo's BLEACH RPG Squad 4 Squad 4 Motto: If you cannot hit the enemy, you can never destroy them! Requirements for Ranks: 10th Seat: 40-99 9th Seat: 100-119 8th Seat: 120-139 7th Seat: 140-159 6th Seat: 160-199 5th Seat: 200-249 4th Seat: 250-299 Lower Guards are 200+, Elite Guards are 300+, Advanced Elite Guards are 400+. Special War Potentials are Shinigami who's skill in battle are unique, swordsmanship, Kido usage, speed e.g. are unique and develop extremely fast. To be a Squad trainer, you must be an Elite Guard or higher, active, have good training experience to be ready to train anybody who is in need of training. I will be waiting to meet you. :P
FEAR is an advanced military that fights for and protects the rights and safety of the people of Venezia. Our forces are dedicated to the progression of our infrastructure and are ready and willing to destroy those who threaten it. "Honor, Courage, Commitment." ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 【HANDBOOK】https://forum.roblox.com/Forum/ShowPost.aspx?PostID=198211741 ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 【REGULATIONS】[2/16] https://twitter.com/FEAREmpire/status/832397545246752771 ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 【TS3】fearempire(dot)net ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 【NEWS】Follow @ "FEAREmpire" on Twitter to get the latest news on everything FEAR! ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
Follow me on Twitter: @Ripull_RBLX ___________________________________________ When you join, you become a VIP in all ROBLOX Derby games! ___________________________________________ Vip abilities for RBD2: -Red Team. -+2 Points per hit. -VIP car "Zapper". (Click the "<" button when on the "Earner" car screen.) -Ability to change camera mode. ( Guide: http://www.roblox.com/Forum/ShowPost.aspx?PostID=93822244 ) Vip abilities for RBD1: -Red team. -+2 Points per hit. -(+5) speed, torque and turn. -50% discount in shop. -Buggati Veyron.
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Why little Not MORE
Little is something and
that something is more ...
When you don't want again,
something little then after....
The time is now to enjoy and cheer
but more enjoy that i feel as boar...
Success may become failure why??
due to more joy and
due to more cheer .............
So So So................all my dears.
share the fear , share your cheer,
share the joy, share your tear....
want as per... need as per,,
then live the life without fear.
and with more dears.........
© Copyright 2017 smruti. All rights reserved.
Status: Finished
Genre: Poetry
Poem / Poetry
Book / Poetry
Poem / Poetry
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Pittsburgh skyline from pressbox of PNC Park
"It is a far, far better thing to have a firm anchor in nonsense than to put out on the troubled seas of thought."
~John Kenneth Galbraith
I guess I will keep with the Pittsburgh skyline for today! This is one I took last summer at PNC Park with Pete Talke. This is the view we had from the press box, and although it was a crappy weather, it still makes for a nice view! This is the same spot I took the fisheye view from (see in comments).
As for processing, this one was processed in Photomatix 3, a 9 RAW exposure HDR. I used my typical slider setup (found on my blog), and then shipped it over the CS5. Used come masking to get rid of some slight halos, added an overall saturation layer, then a green and yellow layer for the field and bridge respectively. Also used a Cooling Filter layer and finally put it through Nik's Sharpener.
I hope that you all have a great Sunday!
I don't mind invitations, but please no big, shiny, flashing, glitter graphics, they will be deleted. Also, please contact me if you would like to use my pictures for any reason, as all rights are reserved. Thanks!
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The Skull Babylon Future Projects Fund
$1,090 of $2,222 goal
A hub for a global collective of Paradigm Shift Communities.
Funds raised go towards the production of Future Projects to help expand consciousness and shift paradigms across the globe.
∞ Help me change the world; through discipline, dedication, and determination. ∞
View more of my previous and ongoing work at www.youtube.com/SkullBabylon
Listen to Weekly New Episodes of Paradigm Shift Radio which I Co-Host and manage at
Connect and share with me at:
www.facebook.com/SkullBabylon & www.twitter.com/SkullBabylon
Listen to the show and join the live chat at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/paradigmshiftradio/2014/01/27/psr82-truth-in-plain-sight-the-santos-bonacci-legacy
LIKE - http://www.fb.com/ParadigmShiftRadio
Santos Bonacci is a well known dedicated truth seeker who has been researching ancient knowledge and universal truth for the past 30 years. On Jan 19th, Santos was 'arrested' by Australian officers for reasons that are not black and white. As a result, Santos was unable to be present for his scheduled guest appearance for Ep81 of Paradigm Shift Radio. Therefore, in lieu of these recent events, his close friend Kate of Gaia will be co-creating this episode to talk about the work Santos has been involved with while also sharing further insight on a variety of esoteric topics related to our mysterious past and more.
Explore Santos's work at http://universaltruthschool.com/
Ep81 - Dreams: Reflections of Soul
Preview: http://youtu.be/s6RabdPrQWw
Full Episode: http://youtu.be/-VZ0--2F_zc
Are you human? Do you dream? Then you are probably interested in understanding more about dreams? Tune in to this episode of Paradigm Shift Radio for some more insightful insight and tips about the topic.
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Be sure to tune in to the next NOT TO BE MISSED episode of Paradigm Shift Radio w guest Santos Bonacci exploring some potent information that will help shed some light on our mysterious past. Please join the event page and invite some friends.
Paradigm Shift Radio 81 - Our Mysterious Past & AstroTheology w Santos Bonacci LIVE Sun Jan 19, 9pm - 11pm EST
Invite Others and Listen LIVE or Afterwards at:
Featured Guest: Santos Bonacci
Truth Seeker, AstroTheologist
I have updated to wording of this page to clarify that the funds raised are going towards the production of Future Projects to help expand consciousness and shift paradigms across the globe.


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Foreign Office Minister concerned by arrest of trade unionists in Fiji
This news article was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government
Foreign Office Minister David Lidington has expressed concern after two trade unionists were arrested by the military regime in Fiji on 4 August.
Speaking today the Foreign Office Minister said:
"I am concerned by the news of the arrest of two trade unionists by the military regime in Fiji. The UK Government believes this action will increase further Fiji's isolation from the international community. The right to assemble peacefully is at the heart of a functioning democracy and helps to improve long-term social, political and economic stability.
We will be raising these worrying developments with international partners and working with them in our continued commitment to helping Fiji make a successful return to democracy."


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All quotes tagged Spiritually
(1517 quotes found)
"Gratitude and love are always multiplied when you give freely. It is an infinite source of contentment and prosperous energy."
"The problem with him is, his mind is conditioned by the thoughts of a philosopher, who denounced all kinds of conditioning."
"Your inward perception determines your outward transformation! Let your focus be on Christ! ---Mordecai Uka Dike"
"Your emotions should not be driven by the situation, but you are supposed to create that situation by using emotions."


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Fall of Mirthonia
It was a cold and bitter wind that blew down the valleys and dales of Mirthonia. It shivered limbs and froze leaves, and made the inhabitants of that strange land shiver and pull their cloaks tighter around them. They glanced at the mountain that birthed it, perhaps a trifle unhappily, before continuing on their businesses.
The markets of Mirthonia were very grand, and despite the chill wind they were full to overflowing with shoppers and hawkers, merchants and goodwives, and other sorts. Here could be found any sort of strange and wonderful devices, the freshest foods, and the finest wines. It was the wonder of the world, just ask any Mirthonian and he would gladly tell you. No other city could match its splendor, nor meet its coffers.
The city was ruled over by a kindly king. Marthong was his name. He was a centaur, one of the people of the plains. His features were fair, his shining gold coat kept brushed and clean, and his white tail and hair combed and straight. He ruled wisely and generously, sending aid to one town or another in plight, and making many friends. His people loved him, and they sang song and toasted his praises, wherever he went.
There was no doubt that the city was rich, for it had the great advantage of being near the coast, and on the main trade routes through the heart of the continent, and lands beyond. Mirthonian ships were a common sight in many ports, and were hired often for their speed and agility, as well as their ability to carry tremendously heavy loads.
Such wealth created many enemies, however. Envious eyes had turned to the city and its king, weighing the risks and benefits. The Mirthonians were fierce fighters, jealously guarding their hoards of gold and silver and Mircon, the rarest and most precious of metals. Their ranks were made of all the races, from dwarves and centaurs, to elves and drow, and even the Purs, the strange cat-folk found nowhere else in the world.
It was on this cold and bitter day, however, that the peace and prosperity of Mirthonia was rudely interrupted. A lowly sentry on the sea wall gave the first cry of alarm. He had been walking the wall on his route, anxiously awaiting the end of his shift. It was Fires day, and he was eagerly anticipating the half-priced beer at Mols, his favorite tavern. He was about to make the circuit towards the landward side of the city when he happened to glance back the way he had come. He was astonished to see hundreds of great rectangular sails on the horizon. They were making very great speed towards the city, and so swift was their coming that even as he watched the ships were becoming clearer. Far from the wallowing drafts of the merchant ships that plied the waters, these ships were sleek and long, tapered both fore and aft around great posts that had been carved with dragon's heads.
Sea Robbers! Vikors! The guard was nearly paralyzed with fear. The Vikors were the fiercest warriors on sea or land, and they rarely gave any quarter to their foes. That they would be coming here and in such numbers was a surprise, but it was obvious what they were after.
Blessing his hooves that he was fast, the guard streaked along the wall, heading for the alarm bell. It was set nearly halfway between watchposts set in the wall, though with the coming of winter and the foul storms that were brewing they were unmanned.
Breathing heavily, he grabbed the long rod that lay in its holder, and struck the great golden bell. Its note echoed throughout the city, making the markets still and people look up in surprise! The guard hit the bell again and again as fast as he could in desperation. He could already make out warriors arming themselves in the boats, and hear distant shouts coming from them. They did not have much time left, he knew. He was amazed at the speed of the fleet, he knew of no other ship, warship or merchant, which could move half as fast. They seem to fly over the water instead of sail on it, and he wondered briefly if some foul magic was at work.
He heard hooves and the tramp of iron-shod boots, and he was relieved to see warriors hurrying along the wall and towards the defenses. There were a great many men and dwarves and elves with long bows stringing themselves along the sea wall. But the numbers were so few! The guard prayed under his breath that the king would think of something, or that those still coming would move faster. The first boats had landed, the men inside splashing out onto the shore.
"This is not going to go well for us at all," he whispered. The boats rowed back out to see after depositing their burdens, to make way for others waiting to offload. He could see no end to the tide of ships. And in his heart, he began to fear that he would not live out the day.
Very well. If that is the case, then let me die with honor. I'll take out one or two of those sea robbers with me, I'll warrant. He rang all the harder, sweat running down his brow as he hit with grim determination.
A similar determination was felt by Marthong as he surveyed the enemy fleet from his palace balcony. He had been in a meeting with several of the chief merchants of the city when the alarm bell had rang. Now the entire city was filled with the sound of bells and the hurried tread of his warriors as they rushed to man the wall. From his vantage point he could already see the Vikors attacking the far end, where the guard was still light and they might push through. The clash of arms could not be heard by him, only seen. Sunlight glinted off their armor and flashed off their swords as men, dwarves and Purs fought desperately.
We are going to need a plan if we are going to hold the city, if it is possible to hold the city. Marthong was disheartened. He could see the fleet still stretched to the horizon, and only the first wave had landed on the beach. They could very well take the city with that wave, if they moved fast enough. If they did not, then they had enough men, theoretically, to take the city by force.
"Move the women and children, old and infirm, to the palace." He instructed one of his guards. The spotted Pur quickly saluted and left. Marthong turned back to the scene.
Behind him he heard quick mutters from the Merchants. His mouth tightened in annoyance. He wished he could send them away, but they were not like to go now, during a battle. He had no doubt they would stay right here with him, so long as he was in the palace, and be in relative safety. The fools.
Marthong knew it would not be long before he went for his armor and sword. He would take to the walls if necessary, and hearten the men. It was not in him to leave them to fight alone. However, the balcony offered an excellent view of the city and the disposition of forces, and he would use it to plan a strategy.
"Get me maps of the city." He barked at the merchants. They glanced at one another in astonishment.
"Us, your majesty?" asked a porcine man in astonishment. "That's servants work!"
"Well, you don't see any about right now, do you?" Marthong snapped. "They're all out getting into armor to fight! I don't see you doing so, so you might as well make yourself useful, and get me maps to plan our defense!"
The merchants looked at each other, and then one or two scurried off. Marthong returned to his study, the fools already forgotten. They would no doubt attempt to regain some dignity later, and make him pay dearly for future services, but that was a future worry. For now, he had to concentrate on defending the city.
The merchants returned carrying several tightly wound scrolls in their hands. Marthong took the scrolls and unrolled them on the table. He poured over them, looking for places to arrange his defenses if the invaders breached the walls. He thought it very likely they would, given such numbers. His biggest fear was that they would surround the city on all sides with their men. It would be what he would do in the enemy's position, and make a supreme effort at either sapping or otherwise destroying a section or sections of wall and forcing entry. At that point, he knew, the ball would be up in the air. His men knew the city well, and the invaders didn't, or only by maps. There were some secrets that weren't covered in the maps, however, and he planned to use them to his advantage.
The sound of horns made him look up from the map of the city's sewer ways and head for the balcony. There he could see scaling ladders already against the wall and men upon them, trying to get force their way onto the walls. The defenders were putting up a grim fight however, and most of the ladders were being pushed over. In minutes the last of the ladders was down.
Marthong breathed a sigh of relief. He had not counted on them getting ladders made so quickly! He supposed that those could have been brought with the ships in the hopes of getting them up onto the walls before the defenders were ready for them. It was a risky gamble, trading valuable space on ships for such things, but it could have worked if they had tried it sooner.
He could not underestimate this enemy, that much was certain. With such tricks as this, he would be hard at it to withstand the assault. Still, all was not lost. He needed help, and he knew where to get it.
He looked at the merchants again. "Do any of you still have any pigeons left in your pigeon cotes?" he asked.
A few of the merchants frowned but nodded.
"Excellent." Marthong felt a great deal of relief and hope. "I've already sent my fastest centaurs of the Centaur Express, but it will be days before they can get to anyone in position to help. I would like you to bring these messages to your contacts in the other cities, and see if they can convince anyone to help. Bid them to come with all speed, or we shall be lost."
Most simply muttered about "Not safe out there, we could get trampled." And; "Don't know any merchants in Calso that could reach the ear of their king." However one merchant stood apart.
He was a human, Malcolm by name, Marthong thought. His dark eyes met Marthong's levelly and nodded.
"I can get a pigeon into the air in half-an hour, though my coop is nearest to the wall on the far side. If you have a message that will insure it gets taken seriously by their king, I will leave at once." He said seriously.
"Half a moment, and I shall write it out." Marthong told him. He hurriedly scrawled on a small scrap of parchment, such as he thought a bird might be able to carry. Imploring the reader to hurry, he wrapped it tightly with a string, and gave it to Malcolm. The dark-haired man nodded grimly and hurried out, the sound of his boots ringing loudly in the silent halls. Marthong watched him go, and wished him greater speed, before putting him firmly out of his thoughts.
"I have seen enough here to make up my mind." He announced to the startled merchants. "You can stay here if you like, but I am going to the walls."
"Your Majesty, is that wise?" one of them gasped. "You could be killed by an arrow, or stabbed by some black-coated Sea Robber!"
"Then so be it." Marthong snarled angrily. "I will not cower here like some rat in a cave. Nor will I allow my soldiers to die in my stead. I will stand with them, for as long as I am able." And with that parting shot, he went to don his armor.
Out on the walls, he found only chaos and confusion. The sea robbers had come in such numbers as to entirely cover the small plain that surrounded their great city. There was no passage in or out now, and Marthong rather thought they were like a rock in the middle of a black pond. It was not a cheerful thought.
"Your Majesty!" It was Tory, one of his generals. He was dressed in armor that appeared to have been put on hurriedly over feast day clothes, and they were already torn and covered in blood. He sported a slight scratch over one eye. "What are you doing here sir!" he gasped.
"What does it look like?" Marthong said irritably. "I am fighting to defend my city from this rabble. The day has not yet come when I can no longer carry a sword, and I dare any Sea Robber to take my city away from me!" he roared the last words at the top of his voice, and around him he could hear the cheers of his men.
Heartened at his arrival, they pushed stubbornly back at the Sea Robbers. The Vikors were surprised at the sudden onslaught, but grudgingly gave ground until they were back down their ladders. Before they could pull them away, oil was thrown on them, and the warriors below, and torches were applied and flung. In seconds the ladders and their bearers were engulfed. The stench was horrible, and Marthong gagged, but he kept his face stern and forbidding.
Across the wall, he could see the sea robbers pulling back. They retreated out of bowshot range of most of his men, but not the elvish archers. Arrows still killed them where they stood, but they raised shields and held their ground. It was clear they were rethinking their plan of attack. Marthong was glad of it, as it gave his troops time to rest and recover. Any delay was a blessing now, and good time to make use of it.
"Tory, gather the rest of my Generals. I intend to make use of this time that our enemies have so generously given us."
"Yes, my liege." Tory saluted with fist over heart and raced off to deliver his message. Not a bad speed for a satyr, Marthong thought. He would certainly do well in the next set of foot races, if he lived.
In minutes, the rest of his generals arrived. There were, in order of importance, Melthos the centaur, Tory, the satyr, Markop, the Pur, Grizbeard the dwarf, and Sean the human. They were the best and brightest minds his city had to offer, but they looked at him now with varying degrees of despair.
"Milord." They murmured as they greeted him.
"How are we doing?" he asked them bluntly.
They shuffled and shifted uneasily, except for blunt Grizbeard. The dwarf spat angrily and growled in his usual gruff manner.
"It ain't pretty, yer Majesty. We've got the laddies up and a'boot, but the accursed robbers have got us outnumbered, and they've made it up to the wall twice in the past hour. That ain't good."
"Well, for a moment I thought we were in serious trouble." Marthong said dryly. To their obvious surprise, the generals chuckled slightly. Happy to lighten the mood, Marthong continued on. "We have been able to hold the walls despite two of their assaults, and our men will know that, and be feeling better. As for their numbers, they have to come to us, and that is too our advantage. Has any sally come against the main gate?"
"I can answer that." Said Sean. "My company holds the main gate, and there has actually been two sallys, but they were half-hearted efforts, and we beat them back easily."
Marthong frowned. That certainly did not sound right. Usually, the main gate suffered the heaviest attacks during sieges, as besiegers used any sort of nasty devices to batter down the doors and sweep inside. "It may be a feint." He said at last. "Keep the gate fully manned until we are sure."
"Yes, my liege." Sean bowed.
"That be all well and good." Grizbeard growled. "Unless we canna hold the walls."
Marthong regarded him levelly. "The walls appear to be fully manned, and the actual incursions have been few. What ill news do you possess that makes our efforts irrelevant?"
"The fact that they made it to the wall at all, for one." Grizbeard growled. "And for another…How did the Vikors assemble such a fleet and bring it all the way here without us knowing about it?"
Marthong was grim. "I don't know," he admitted, "Though I would give a pretty pile of gold indeed to learn that. However, that is neither here nor there, as we must look to the defense of the city before we lose it all."
"Well, if that be true; I have to wonder what other surprises they may have in store for us bef're the sun has set."
Marthong thought about Grizbeard's words. He forced a grin. "Well, whatever it is, we shall have to deal with it as it comes, I'm afraid."
The dwarf harrumphed. "I guess we havn'a choice." He agreed.
"Surely they have shot their bolt." Melthos broke in.
Marthong looked at him. "Explain." He demanded.
The appaloosa centaur looked as if he were collecting his thoughts. "Well," said he, "It must have required a great deal of magic to shield their fleet from our eyes. Also, they used speed and agility rather than other sorceries in their initial assaults, indicating that their ability to use such power has been severely reduced. Further, they brought an enormous number of ships, and the men to crew them. It is my belief that they would not have brought such a massive army if they had sufficient sorcerers to overwhelm us."
He looked levelly at the assembled. "My forces include the greatest number of our own magicians," he continued, "And they have told me that actual clashes of the Power are very small, almost sparing. That also supports my theory. They mean to sit out on the gate and wait for us to starve; or, more likely, wear us down in assaults and push us to the center of the city to destroy us."
Marthong could not doubt the logic, but he still felt it was wrong in some way that he could not quite put his finger on. "Perhaps you are right." He said after letting the silence stretch. "I certainly hope so, it would make it far easier to hold our walls until help arrives if there is no sorcerer battle. Still, bid our mages to keep a tight watch, for we may yet be wrong."
"As you command." Melthos bowed.
Melthong cocked his head as he considered the possibility of a lengthy siege. While it was certainly the most desirable outcome, he wondered about their food stocks. He hadn't checked to see their levels before he came down. He was about to ask when a horn blew. Everyone shivered as that foul note hovered in the air.
"To the walls." Melthong said. They hurried up to see what was going to happen.
When Melthong got to the top of the stairs he stared dumbfounded. Amongst the ranks of the Sea Robbers were huge beasts with great spikes sticking out of their mouths! Their noses reached nearly to the dirt, and their huge leathery ears flapped and swayed in the breeze. What in the name of the immortal soul are those things??! Around him he could hear soldiers shouting in terror at the mere sight of them, and Marthong could not blame them, they were nearly as big enough to look over the wall! On the shore he could easily make out the huge vessel that had brought them settled firmly in the sand.
"Steady!" Marthong shouted. "They are nothing to be frightened of." Frightened? Try terrified. It was all Marthong could do to keep the fear from his voice. He had to bolster his troops before they broke. "Archers! Prickle those creatures."
Bowstring twanged and arrows whistled high. His elvish archers proved their reputation again; every beast suddenly sprouted a forest of arrows in their faces, the shafts clustered so closely together a fly could walk across them without any trouble. The beasts trumpeted in rage and fear, a horrifying sound. It made the air tremble and the ground shake, and his men cower behind the parapets as if the rough stone were any refuge against the sound.
"Aim for the eyes!" he bellowed. Others took up the call. "The eyes! The eyes!" rang from the battlements. Again came the slap of bowstrings and the whistling sound of arrows flying through the air.
The strange beasts gave a second trumpet as shafts slammed into their vulnerable eyes. One or two remained standing, though it was clear they were blind by the way the shuffled their feet and slammed into each other. The others fell heavily to the ground with mighty crashes that shook the earth under the defenders feet.
Marthong gave a quiet sigh as a groan from the enemy forces came up to him. It was clear that they had anticipated the beasts making a hole in his walls, or at the very least frightening his forces away so the Sea Robbers could get a toehold. The loss of that hope had made the enemy pause, it seemed. The Sea Robbers did not advance into bow range, though that forced them back against the mountains and cleared the beach, except for the unloading of still more men.
Once, Marthong had seen two anthills go to war. The invader ants had come in wave upon wave against the beleaguered defenders. Slowly, the invaders had pushed through the ring and forced their way into the anthill, only to emerge carrying eggs and food away. Seeing the great ships still disgorging troops made him remember that fight, and he felt a chill. He prayed silently that help would come.