2025-03-16T23:17:01Z Read in app From left to right: Taliesin Jaffe, Liam O'Brien, Marisha Ray, Travis Willingham, Ashley Johnson, Sam Riegel, Laura Bailey, and Matthew Mercer. Robyn von Swank This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now.Have an account? Critical Role's cofounders sat down with BI and answered one big question: Are you stepping down?Critical Role's CEO, Travis Willingham, said the answer to that is a hard no.But the cofounders do want to bring on "new faces" and ink new partnerships.Critical Role's cofounders are answering one big question about their business and putting some speculation to bed. The eight-member team has streamed their long-runningTwitch hit show into a business venture with multiple arms spanning gaming, Amazon-backed animated series, and publishing. They've sold out stadiums for their live shows, and are embarking on a multi-city tour between April and October: Chicago, Fishers (just outside Indianapolis), Sydney, Melbourne, and New York.BI asked four of the company's cofounders who are now mostly in their 40s about fan speculation that they'd step down from broadcasting to focus on behind-the-scenes work.The answer was a hard no."We've had 10 amazing years and it should be clear and known and declared that we're not going anywhere. We've got tons more to do," Travis Willingham, Critical Role's CEO, said.Not done with telling storiesLiam O'Brien, one of CR's cofounders and the face of its literary and publishing business, told BI he already has character ideas for their next streaming project.The crew also isn't done with the world of Exandria the sprawling gameplay sandbox that Matthew Mercer, CR's chief creative officer, created over a decade ago.Willingham says he wants to explore the Shattered Teeth, a string of mysterious islands in Exandria, and see what the game world looks like under the sea.O'Brien, meanwhile, wants to take a big leap forward in time."Someday in some manner, in some medium, I want to visit Exandria in a science fiction far future," he said.Ray also told BI that she's figuring The cast of "Critical Role" wrapped up their third long-running 'D&D' campaign in February. Critical Role "Between Campaign Two and Campaign Three, we built a new set," Ray told BI. "We're talking about merch, and we're talking new ways that we can continue to elevate our content and how we tell this story. We are very much in the thick of that right now as we're building everything out."New faces, new partnershipsCR is also interested in having new talent on board."We're very dedicated to introducing these new faces to our audience. And that's not going to stop anytime soon," Ray said."I don't think we could hang up the towel even if we wanted to. I think we're all addicted, so you're not going to see any of the founders go anywhere," she said.The CR team also wants to bring new crews and their projects on board.There's already precedent for this. CR expanded its reach in the podcasting business by acquiring shows like "Midst" and "Tales from the Stinky Dragon." The latter streamed at the Texas-based Rooster Teeth Productions until that company shut down in 2024.Willingham told BI that the crew wants to find creatives who make "cool and nerdy" things and he hopes CR's streaming platform, Beacon, can help give such people a platform."After 10 years, one of the most exciting things is the opportunity to give storytellers a new spotlight," Willingham said.

Diablo 4 is still one of the games I find myself playing multiple times a week, and now we know to expect a second expansion next year, here's everything I wantTech22:00, 16 Mar 2025The demon's of Hell won't vanquish themselvesDiablo 4 has been a fantastic experience since the Vessel of Hatred expansion dropped last year, adding a whole new class, region, and endgame activities.Even for someone already enjoying the base game, it elevated it significantly. Now in the midst of its seventh season, the ARPG that Elon Musk (apparently) plays is approaching its next update next month but fans were already curious about whether we'll get another expansion.Article continues belowWith Blizzard confirming the return of Blizzcon earlier this week, it seems highly likely that we'll get something Diablo 4 related in 2026. Indeed, as Diablo General Manager Rod Fergusson revealed at DICE in Las Vegas last month, the game's next expansion is coming next year.While that means we've got a little while to wait, it also means Blizzard can read this very article and find out what we want in Diablo 4 Expansion 2, right? Well maybe not, but here's our wishlist anyway.Vessel of Hatred bolted a whole new region (or at least, new for Diablo 4) onto Sanctuary when it arrived, and Nahantu's temples and jungles provided a nice change of pace from the doom and gloom of the base game.I mean, it was still dreary in true Diablo fashion, but a little greenery never hurt anyone. Fans have suggested that the next expansion could bring back some more classic locations like Tristram or Westmarch, but I'd like to see Xiansai make an appearance.It's the birthplace of Akarat, who was a core part of Vessel of Hatred's story, and the 'Great Isle' is packed with mountain ranges and magic-wielders a far cry from Nahantu.We're ready for fresh faces around the campfireA new region will be lovely, but the reason that people are likely to jump in is to see the amount of chaos they can cause with a fresh class.After all, the Spiritborn from Vessel of Hatred was fantastic, with a more modular design that meant it often felt a little like multiple classes in one.Xiansai's exports include poison and magic, suggesting there could be something to tie a fresh class to there, but I'm feeling nostalgic and would love a returning class or something from Diablo Immortal.I've been missing the Paladin personally, but I'd be just as happy with a Blood Knight or quick-hitting Monk. With Path of Exile 2, Diablo 4's chief rival, offering six classes and six more to come, here's hoping whoever joins the roster is fun to play as.Give us even more combat options, BlizzardOK, this is a little nebulous I know, but the seasonal abilities (especially the Witch Powers from Season 7) have been a revelation.My Rogue can deal damage and inflict poison without even touching an enemy, and I'm really enjoying mixing and matching abilities as I go.While I appreciate the fun of these game-breaking abilities can be how they move in and out of the game to stop anything getting stale, I'm hopeful Blizzard can find a way to tie these in as a secondary progression track even beyond Paragon Boards, which often feel a little too number-focused for my liking.Here's hoping for more challenging combat encountersVessel of Hatred's approach to endgame was, in my opinion, very close to perfect. Epilogue quests, Kurast Undercity time trials, Nightmare Dungeons, and the Dark Citadel were all great, and more casual players could farm Helltides for fresh gear and XP.In all honesty, my main request for Expansion 2 would just be more. Another co-op challenge like the Dark Citadel would be great, potentially increasing the player count to make it closer to a Raid.Article continues belowFor the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.

Did you know there's a world under the water? If this is the first time you're hearing this, hold on tight... We're going to Denizonya now. To meet Poli and her grandmother Lupi! Taken to the surface by a diver to investigate, Grandma Lupi is the only fish who has seen the human world and returned - and she has so much to tell. How will Poli find a solution so that every fish can listen and learn these amazing stories?

The 32-bit era was a bit of a strange one for many video game genres, particularly those industry staples that established themselves in the 16-bit era, like JRPGs. As the industry was quickly turning towards 3D graphics, the march of progress would ensure it would soon become absorbed into an encroaching 64-bit era, creating a muddled yet enduring legacy.

While progressing through the Hotland region of Undertale, the player will eventually enter the lab of Dr. Alphys. This is where the supercomputer and celebrity among monsters, Mettaton, will make his first appearance. This blocky, electronic performer has his sights set on capturing the soul of the human protagonist, and he's not the type to stop under any circumstances.

An iPad without a great case is like a sports car without tiressleek, powerful, but not reaching its full potential. A tablet this versatile isnt just for one thing. Its a sketchpad in the morning, a work machine by noon, and a theater screen by night, flipping effortlessly between portrait and landscape, depending on the task. With so many ways to use it, the real challenge isnt what the iPad can doits how to support it in every scenario.Thats where a great case makes all the difference. Not just for protection, but for unlocking the iPads full potential with stable docking angles that keep up with how you actually use it. ESRs latest lineup, including the Flip and Shift Magnetic Cases, is designed with this in mind, offering flexibility that transforms the iPad into something even more capable. Sure, you could slap on any $20 silicon or polycarbonate case onto an iPad, but these cases from ESR go above and beyond, supporting your tablet through all its functions, in both landscape and portrait, and in up to 6 different angles enabling practically every activity youd need the iPad for.Click Here to Buy Now.ESR Flip Magnetic CaseThe newest case on the block, the ESR Flip Magnetic Case takes a straightforward approach to iPad protection while adding a level of functionality that enhances everyday use. Designed with a built-in foldable stand, it offers multiple viewing and writing angles45 and 60 for media consumption, and a stable 25 incline for sketching or note-taking. The magnetic support stand ensures stability on any surface, so whether its propped up on a desk or balanced on a couch, the iPad stays secure and wobble-free.The name Flip comes from its ability to flip between landscape and portrait modes, giving you a case that does it all, whether you want a horizontal or vertical tablet. A fold-out leg on the cases protective flap gives you vertical docking, making it perfect for Facetime calls, browsing TikTok, or doing anything that requires propping your iPad vertically. The Flip Magnetic Case comes in two variants with or without Apple Pencil docking (although we prefer the former). Durability isnt compromised in either casethanks to a PU exterior with reinforced fiberglass layers, ensuring long-lasting protection against daily wear. With support for multiple iPad models, including the iPad 10 and 11 (not the Air, Mini, or Pro variants), its a reliable option for those who want a case thats both practical and stylish.Why We Recommend ItFor users who want a lightweight, travel-friendly case that keeps things simple without sacrificing functionality, the Flip Magnetic Case is a great fit. Its slim design makes it easy to carry, while the reinforced magnetic stand provides stable viewing and writing angles for everyday use. The built-in Apple Pencil slot ensures your stylus stays secure and charged, making it a convenient choice for students, casual creatives, or anyone who primarily browses, sketches, or watches content on their iPad. If portability and ease of use matter more than an extensive range of angles, the Flip is a solid choice for iPad users.Click Here to Buy Now: $19.54 $22.99 (15% off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!ESR Shift Magnetic CaseESRs Red Dot Award-winning Shift Magnetic Case takes versatility to another level, rethinking how an iPad stand should work. With six unique use modes and up to nine ultra-stable angles, it transforms the tablet into whatever you need at the momentwhether thats a raised screen for better posture, a comfortable incline for sketching, or even a fridge-mounted display for following recipes hands-free. The dual support brackets and strong magnetic grooves ensure a wobble-free experience, no matter the setup. And when its time to switch gears, the detachable back case keeps the iPad protected while staying lightweight enough for easy handling.Flexibility aside, the Shift Magnetic Case is built for practicality. Unlike rigid folio designs that lock you into limited angles, this case adapts on the fly, making it ideal for anyone who juggles work, entertainment, and creative projects. The secure magnetic attachment means snapping the iPad in and out of its stand is seamless, offering the kind of effortless usability that enhances daily productivity. With compatibility spanning multiple iPad modelsincluding the M3 iPad Air, iPad Pro (11-inch and 13-inch), and recent iPad Air and iPad modelsits a future-proof investment for those who rely on their tablet across different tasks and environments.Why We Recommend ItThis case stands out for anyone who values adaptability. The ability to transition between so many angles means youre never stuck forcing your workflow around a limited stand design. If youve ever propped your iPad up at an awkward angle or wished for a more ergonomic setup, the Shift Case solves those problems with a design that moves with you. Its also a solid pick for those who use their iPad in multiple spaceswhether at a desk, on a couch, or even in the kitchen. The added benefit of a detachable back case makes it even more practical, ensuring the iPad stays protected without adding unnecessary bulk when used handheld.Click Here to Buy Now: $37.99 $39.99 (5% off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!The post Turn Your iPad Into The Ultimate Productivity Powerhouse With These Smart Cases first appeared on Yanko Design.

Long before modern convenience dulled our instincts, blades were the difference between survival and disaster. Bushcraft knives, in particular, carry that primal DNA. They arent flashy, they arent delicate, and they sure as hell arent meant to be babied. These are knives that thrive in the dirt, the rain, and the raw brutality of the outdoors. A good one will baton wood, carve traps, skin game, and still be sharp enough to shave the hair off your arm. The best ones, though? They dont just workthey feel like an extension of you. Thats the magic of a truly well-designed blade.Weve covered Buhovs work beforehis previous bushcraft knife was a brutal yet refined masterpiece, built for both survivalists and collectors. Now, hes back with a new design, one that pushes even further into rugged territory. This new fixed blade strips away the unnecessary, leaving behind a weaponized workhorse of steel and G-10. Aggressive yet utilitarian, it carries the DNA of bushcraft tradition while embracing modern tactical elements. A knife built to get dirty, take abuse, and come back for more.Designer: Nikolai BuhovThe blade commands attention with its savage, hammered texture along the spine, almost reminiscent of chipped flint or the teeth of a serrated predator. The full-tang construction speaks of durability, while the sweeping curve of the blade suggests versatilityperfect for carving, slicing, or handling heavy-duty survival tasks. This isnt a knife thats made to be caged indoors and relegated to merely opening Amazon boxes. Its designed to be used, abused, and trusted when things get tough.Ergonomically shaped and textured for a secure grip, the green G-10 scales offer both comfort and control. The sculpted surface almost mimics reptilian armor, adding a layer of visual intrigue that pairs seamlessly with the blades raw, weathered finish. It feels like something forged for the elements, a knife that thrives in the untamed wild. Whether youre setting up camp, processing game, or tackling a worst-case scenario, this handle wont let you down when grip strength matters most.Paired with a custom-molded Kydex sheath, the knife is as practical in carry as it is in use. A Ulticlip attachment ensures secure retention, whether youre clipping it to a belt, pack, or pocket. The minimalist sheath design keeps things streamlined, allowing for quick deployment without unnecessary bulk. This is exactly the kind of carry system that tactical enthusiasts and survivalists dream aboutsimple, effective, and built for real-world application.All of Buhovs knives are designed from scratch and made by hand. The knives you see are limited to one-off units that Buhov sells to patrons looking to commission a blade. You can contact him on Facebook for more information.The post Meet the Brutal Yet Elegant Handmade Fixed Blade Knife Designed for Survivalists first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Molly Maguires, or the Mollies, were members of a 19th-century Irish secret society active in Ireland and internationally. The movement originated in Ireland as part of agrarian rebellion movements relating to land usage and enclosure. The Mollies were first reported in the British and Irish press in the mid-19th century, noting that they had been formed in Ballinamuck following Lord Lorton's ejection of tenants there. The movement spread internationally to areas with significant Irish immigrant populations, including Liverpool and the United States. Their activism in favour of coal miners in Pennsylvania was particularly noteworthy. After a series of often violent conflicts, twenty suspected Mollies were convicted of murder and other crimes and were executed by hanging in 1877 and 1878. This history remains part of local Pennsylvania lore and the actual facts are much debated among historians. This 1874 illustration from Harper's Weekly, drawn by Paul Frenzeny and Jules Tavernier, depicts a group of Mollies meeting to discuss strikes in the Pennsylvania coal mines.Illustration credit: Paul Frenzeny and Jules Tavernier; restored by Adam CuerdenRecently featured: Phaistos DiscXysticus cristatusAmlie of LeuchtenbergArchiveMore featured pictures

Mini CrosswordNYTIn case you missed Sundays NYT Mini, you can find the answers here:The NYT Mini is a quick and dirty version of the newspaper's larger and long-running crossword. Most days, there are between three and five clues in each direction on a five by five grid, but the puzzles are sometimes larger, especially on Saturdays.Unlike its larger sibling, the NYT Mini crossword is free to play on the New York Times website or NYT Games app. However, youll need an NYT Games subscription to access previous puzzles in the archives.The NYT Mini is a fun daily distraction that usually takes no time at all. I try to beat the standard weekday grid in less than a minute. But sometimes I can't quite figure out one or two clues and need to reveal the answer.To help you avoid doing that, here are the NYT Mini Crossword answers (spoilers lie ahead, of course):NYT Mini Crossword Clues And AnswersACROSS1) Signature health legislation of the Obama era, for short - ACA 4) Pitt of "Moneyball" - BRAD 5) With 2-Down, U.S. national park thats larger than the entirety of Rhode Island - GRAND 6) Saharan country whose capital is Tripoli - LIBYA 7) Figure of speech - IDIOM 8) Baked ___ (barbecue side dish) - BEANSDOWN1) Oil-rich peninsula - ARABIA 2) See 5-Across - CANYON 3) It comes after Wednesday - ADDAMS 4) People traditionally stand for her entrance - BRIDE 5) Insincere - GLIBMiniNYTKind of a medium puzzle today in terms of difficulty and cleverness. I enjoyed the Wednesday Addams clue, which was a fun way of going about that. I was thinking of US peninsulas for oil, but that was too small minded. Had to remind myself about my Saharan capitals to get Libya, which was a stretch for my brain. Which one of these did you struggle with the most?Follow me , and .Pick up my sci-fi novels the and

The White LotusCredit: HBOThe White Lotus does something few other shows are able to achieve. It can take a beautiful place and otherwise mundane stories, and somehow fill us with a rising sense of dread and unease. The really curious thing about tonights episode is that while everything felt ominous, while it really felt like something terrible was about to happen, nothing really did. Nothing particularly bad or scandalous went down in the end, though it felt like we were inching toward the precipice of some horror or another the entire time. Spoilers ahead.While nothing horrible or scandalous went down, each of the various storylines ended with something startling or unexpected. What I thought was going to happen (though I didnt always have a solid prediction) didnt end up happening. But each little subplot gave us a peculiar little twist.The Full Moon PartyLast weeks episode ended with Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger) and his brother Lachlan (Sam Nivola) embarking on a voyage to a nearby island where a Full Moon Party was set to take place. The only thing on Saxons mind is sex. He not only wants to get laid, he wants his little brother to get laid. And they have their eyes set on Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood) and Chloe (Charlotte Le Bon).On the island, they pop pills (I assume its ecstasy, but this isnt clarified) and drink like fish. Saxon doesnt want to take drugs (Saxon is the drug, he proclaims annoyingly) but when the other three do and then peer pressure him, he obliges. Soon, theyre all spun out and high, watching the festivities go down around them, sitting on the beach as fireworks burst in the sky.This entire story is dangling infidelity in front of us. Chloe is determined to cheat on Greg/Gary (John Gries) with the little magician because shes starved for attention. She thinks he might kill her if he found out (not at all ominous!) but its worth the risk. She encourages Chelsea to cheat on Rick (Walton Goggins) though Chelsea seems horrified at the thought. Still, we watch thinking that surely one thing will lead to another. Scenes of the partygoers are spliced together with the Gossip Girls on their own adventure (which Ill get to momentarily) and it all has the effect of a building sense that something is going to go terribly wrong.And then nothing really does. At least by the time the episode ends, nobody has hooked up with anybody else. Nobody cheats. The girls kiss as part of some kind of dare or game, much to Saxons delight, and then Lachlan leans over and kisses his brother right on the lips, at first a quick peck, but then back in for a longer, lingering kiss. This seems to be all part of the game theyre playing, and Lachlan laughs it off, as does Chloe, but Chelsea looks genuinely weirded out (I think I was making a very similar expression!) and Saxon looks confused. This is a genuinely strange moment, especially after all the little incestuous hints weve been getting all season.The Gossip Girls Go ClubbingThe White LotusCredit: HBOLast week, the Gossip Girls met up with Valentin (Arnas Fedaraviius) to go have a good time. The plan is to go clubbing, and right away things start to feel dodgy. Im pretty sure that Valentin was in on the jewelry theft, along with both these other men, Bikovi (Julian Kostov) and Vlad (Yuri Kolokolnikov). But my feeling of unease grew beyond just the threat of these women being around thieves.At one point, Valentins friends return to the table with shots after they all spend some sexy time on the dance floor, where Jaclyn (Michelle Monaghan) seems to get off less on the dancing itself, and more on the fact that people are watching her. Shes addicted to attention, and willing to do just about anything to get it, especially since her husband isnt returning her calls and texts. In any case, when they show up with the shots, Kate (Leslie Bib) doesnt want hers. Shes not interested in getting wasted, so she says someone else can do hers.Valentin looks weirded out by this, like he doesnt want to take the shot. When Laurie (Carrie Coon) takes it instead, he seems worried. At this point, I started to wonder if the drinks were drugged. Once again, this sense of something terrible happening started to infiltrate my thoughts. At one point, Laurie even says that something bad is going to happen.Date rape seems a little bit outside the normal tone for this show, but all signs pointed to the drinks being drugged . . . but they werent. Pretty soon that was very obvious. Jaclyn and Laurie were drunk, but clearly not anything more than that. When some Russian women approach and begin yelling at the men, clearly jealous and accusatory, Kate suggests they all leave. But Jaclyn and Laurie invite the men back to their suite, and the party continues in the pool, where more than a little nudity suggests that yes, some sort of sex party is about to go down.Only it doesnt. Nobody is drugged and no crazy orgy takes place. Kate manages to get rid of the Russians and everyone goes to bed. Only, Jaclyn has a little trick up her sleeve. As soon as everyone is down for the count (Laurie snoring on her stomach in her room) Valentin returns. Jaclyn takes him to her bed. Jaclyn, who has been urging Laurie to hook up with Valentin from the start, who has been talking up her amazing relationship with her husband.Its pretty clear what kind of person Jaclyn is at this point. She wants Valentin because Laurie wants him. She even helps create that in Laurie just so that she can take him for herself, because this makes her feel desired and more desirable than her friends. It fills some gaping emotional hole in her heart, if only briefly, to take what isnt hers away from someone she proclaims to care about. And sure, its not like Valentin is Lauries boyfriend or she has any real claim to him, but clearly Jaclyn is being horribly manipulative and backstabby here.Timothys Got A GunThe White LotusCredit: HBOThe gun was introduced last week, and I still believe that its the same gun that will be shot at the end of the season, though a second gun is introduced this week in Bangkok. Well get to that in a minute.Gaitok (Tayme Thapthimthong) discovers the missing firearm and has a near mental breakdown until he remembers that theres video footage. He goes through the footage and sees Timothy Ratliff (Jason Isaacs) go into the office while Gaitok was off walking Mook (Lalisa Manobal). He knows who took the gun, but he goes about getting it back in the worst way possible.Rather than turning to his supervisors and telling them the truth, he tries to confront Mr. Ratliff on his own. Naturally, this doesnt go well. Gaitok says that he cant find something and thinks Ratliff has it, but Ratliff just looks up and tells him I have no idea what youre talking about and walks away. When Fabian (Christian Friedel) asks Gaitok if everything is okay, Gaitok denies that anything is wrong. He ends his shift without telling anybody about the pistols theft. Hes hoping to protect his job, obviously, but this will almost certainly lead to very bad things.It very nearly leads to Timothys suicide. Its been a long day listening to his wife, Victoria (Parker Posey) tear into their daughter Piper (Sarah Catherine Hook) over her decision to move to Thailand (Victorias line, So youre just going to move to Taiwan for a year? is too hilarious; even off the benzos she has no idea what country it is theyre currently visiting).The White LotusCredit: HBOHe still cant admit whats eating at him to his wife or children. Hes keeping that secret as long as possible, even though its eating him alive. The pills he stole from his wife are clearly not helping. He writes a brief suicide note, apologizing to his family and telling them he loves them, then presses the gun to his temple. He cant pull the trigger, and when Victoria appears he quickly hides the gun.Just when it seems like he might finally come clean and tell his wife the truth about his shady business dealings, he veers back into his lies. His reputation as a standup guy and a successful businessman are clearly important to him, but even more important to Victoria. The truth will crush her, and almost certainly end their marriage. Hed rather die than face that or prison time.Posey is hilarious throughout this storyline. Victoria cant understand her daughters choices and worries over every detail. What if Piper emerges from the meditation center with entirely different values. Different than what? Piper asks. The ones we gave you! her mother replies. Thats kind of the point, Piper fires back. What if its a sex cult? Victoria wants to know. It goes on and on like this. In the end, when she turns to her dad for some kind of advice, hes too distracted and high to be of much help. Pipers expressions speaks volumes. Her parents are out of their damn minds.The Belinda BluesThe White LotusCredit: HBOWe dont see Greg this episode, but we hear about him when Fabian tells Belinda (Natasha Rothwell) that a guest has been asking a lot of questions about her. Shes deeply unsettled by this revelation and returns to Fabian where she hilariously whispers to him that she suspects Greg murdered his wife and may be dangerous. Fabian, who clearly isnt the brightest crayon in the box, doesnt seem to follow. When he finally catches what shes throwing, he tells her that nobody will be contacting the police. Shell be fine, he says, as long as Belinda focuses on herself, and on doing her job.But shes not happy and she turns to Pornchai (Dom Hetrakul) for comfort and advice. He agrees to stay the night with her and when he asks if its okay if he sleeps in one of the beds, she tells him that its fine though he can also sleep in her bed. This is me giving consent, she blurts out, If thats something you guys do. She babbles on nervously and its really quite endearing. He sits on the bed next to her and nods.Its ironic, I think, that outside of Jaclyn, Belinda is the only other character who gets lucky this episode. Nothing for Saxon or Chloe or Lachlan or Laurie.Pornchai also discovers whats been making the noises Belinda keeps hearing: A very large lizard had taken up residence in her room. He gets rid of it much to Belindas relief. What a gentleman. I wonder if theres more to him than meets the eye, however.Rick Goes To BangkokThe White LotusCredit: HBOAnother bit of irony: Rick, on his revenge quest to Bangkok, has perhaps the mildest night of anyone. He meets an old friend (Sam Rockwell) and they go for a drink, though Rick discovers that his old drinking buddy is now ten months sober, drinking chamomile tea instead of whiskey. He learns an awful lot more than that about his old pal (whose name I didnt catch).Specifically, and hilariously, Rick learns that his friend is a sex addict, but a rather philosophical sex addict. He regales him with details. He came to Thailand both because he couldnt go back to the US and because he was attracted to Asian girls. But after a thousand nights of sex with every Asian girl he could pick up, he realized that he still wasnt satisfied. His epiphany, however, is not what we or Rick were expecting. He realized that he actually wanted to be an Asian girl and, um, have sex with himself. So he started picking up men, dressing in drag, and sometimes hed even pay an Asian girl to watch, so that he could imagine he was her having sex with him. Or something.This has to be the most unexpected and hilarious moment in the season so far. Rockwells delivery is so matter-of-fact as he admits to this enormous debauchery, and the look on Ricks face is priceless. Again, I suspect my own expression was much the same. Rockwells confession is also his explanation for sobriety. He found Buddhism and cleaned up his act. Not drinking is easy, he tells Rick; being celibate is the real challenge.The White LotusCredit: HBORick has ignored Chelseas calls up to this point (she leaves him a very adorable voice message) but when he calls back shes busy partying. You get the sense that something bad is going to happen, but nothing does.Not yet, anyways.This was yet another tremendous episode of The White Lotus, and probably the most stressful one of the season so far. I spent the whole time on the edge of my seat waiting for something bad to go down and then (mostly) nothing did, outside of some bad friend behavior from Jaclyn and a weird incestuous kiss between brothers. But I suspect that bad things will happen, and quite soon. Timothy still has his gun. Rick is on his vendetta, and despite a nice evening with an old friend, his plans for vengeance havent changed. The Gossip Girls are headed for a massive falling out, Im sure, and we still dont know who shoots the gun and who eats the bullet.Check out my weekend streaming guide right here:What did you think of this episode? Let me know on Twitter, Instagram, Bluesky or Facebook. Also be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and follow me here on this blog. Sign up for my newsletter for more reviews and commentary on entertainment and culture.Previous White Lotus Season 3 recap/review: