Wotlk bear tank talents
One Hell Of A Vacation - Chapter 89
2023.06.08 10:09 WaveOfWire One Hell Of A Vacation - Chapter 89
First Prev Next Royal Road Patreon
u/KieveKRS providing the Trash certification of quality! (with help from u/coldfireknight cuz this one needed it.)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Nalah affixed the massive shield to her back, the rectangular form large enough for him to fit behind while only needing to crouch slightly. It was mostly ironwood, but the sides and front were metal-plated, so it still weighed a considerable amount. Despite that, the thing’s bulk hardly seemed to be noticed by the blonde-furred female, likely due to the constant construction work she involved herself in. It paired oddly with the long pike she insisted on using, but he couldn’t deny that poking at things while hiding behind a mobile wall sounded like a good idea.
Jax was wearing his new armour, the bulky chest-piece a mirror of his blond-furred pack mate’s. Though he forwent the protection a buckler or likewise would offer, he doubled up on gear. Gauntlets, vambraces, pauldrons, and anything else he could wear to compliment the massive axe he had taken a liking to.
Where Nalah was fitted to look like an apocalypse survivor—her protections limited to her torso, forearms, and shield—the black-furred male resembled a giant, if underfunded, paladin. All he needed now was some religious imagery and a penchant for exalting the qualities of their god. Joseph almost nudged the guy to suggest it for kicks.
On second thought, he decided that Jax absolutely did not need a reason to start yelling about the Human-turned-religious-figure, because there was no way in hell he wouldn’t. There was no telling what he would choose to say, and the Grand Hunter was perfectly happy never knowing.
Having been with the male as long as he had, it would probably involve ‘taming’ females or something else that would leave him groaning for weeks, if not just contemplating another high-dive from the cliff.
Joseph fixed his own equipment, the ‘Wraith armour’ worn over his own thin iron breastplate. He wasn’t thrilled to wear the extra weight, but it beat being mauled by the thing they were heading out to kill. The trips so far had been tolerable, fog and overcast skies keeping the temperature in check, but he didn’t want to go out in this on a hotter day as Summer really kicked back in. He was sweaty enough without baking inside all this crap.
He adjusted the wolf-skull mask, the rest of the hunting party having gotten over the worst of the unease it gave them. Though they’d needed to rotate people out for the sake of fairness, this would be their eighth consecutive scouting. Using the information that Raine and Faye provided, they narrowed down a likely stomping grounds for the creature and were systematically clearing sectors. It might have been discouraging to keep looking after so long, but the occasional marking on trees and the odd moss-wolf corpse tipped them off that they were getting close. There was still another week’s worth of searching left if today wasn’t the day, but somehow he doubted they wouldn’t need that long.
All in all, they numbered six; larger parties were attempted, but their efforts at stealth quickly became pointless between so many trudging through the forest and stopping for breaks. There was a bit of a scare where one of Mi’low’s pack went missing, but the guy had just stopped to relieve himself. Since the discovery was made by someone else knocking him over in the process by mistake, they decided that keeping the number smaller made communication easier. And lowered the amount of grumbling about needing a bath.
Jax, Nalah, two security members, one of the hunters, and him. Sure, grabbing Tel or the Wraiths would have been a bit more useful for cohesion, but they were all busy with things, and he didn’t want to grind everything in the settlement to a halt for nothing if the search turned up empty again. They were more suited to taking out their fellow Lilhun than some monster in the woods, as much as he disliked the thought.
Scarlet was spending a lot of time with Violet and the new Atmo, Faye was spending much of her recovery with the moss-wolves and moss-pup, and Tel was in the process of helping Harrow shore up the few security members that were slated to become snipers. Kaslin was still learning chemistry with Toril, and Raine was helping whoever needed a hand, so that marked off all of his usual accompaniment. He could have taken more of his direct pack, but they all had important things to take care of as well.
Sahari was managing the pack and putting people where people needed to be put, Pan was working with Idee and Heralt to make a line of armour for the whole pack, and Mi’low was...well, Mi’low. He was pretty sure she was unofficially the master of the hunter’s lodge and spent most of her time keeping track of what came in and out of it, while also making sure that everyone got their fair share. It needed to be done with the settlement growing as much as it had, and it kept Mi’low busy enough to stymie the flow of complaints, so he wasn’t about to complain.
They double checked that they had everything that was needed; food, water, arrows, bolts, and some bags to store anything that the snares had caught on the way back. Four ranged and two melee weapons meant that they would be mostly using Jax and Nalah to soak hits if it came down to it, the others peppering it with projectiles. Given that Harrow was insistent on the bear-thing being resistant to anything they could use at a distance, they also carried spare weapons for the ranged users, just in case. Nodding, Joseph gestured to the group finishing up their preparations for the day’s trip.
“A moment, sir?” Scarlet called to him as she approached the gate, the Wraith flanked by Rose and Cobalt. The two Atmo were decked-out in their own armour, which appeared to be almost entirely metal, save for the palm lining the inside for comfort. Each of their six legs were adorned with broad shields, their bases capped off with a flat storage carriage. They looked like someone had a little too much fun testing how much the insects could effortlessly carry and had ended up with sapient hexapedal tanks.
“Only if you explain why those two would look more at home if they had cannons installed on their backs,” he quipped, an expression somewhere between surprised, amused, and plain dumbfounded plastered on his face. The blackish red-furred female smirked for a split-second before resuming her usual servile presentation.
“The young mistress had extended her request for these two to accompany you.”
Joseph tilted his head incredulously. “Violet told you to send them?”
Scarlet nodded, gesturing to the outfitted Atmo. “They have been under her tutelage for some time now, and wish to be of assistance.”
The Grand Hunter snapped his mouth closed when he was about to ask why his daughter would teach them anything that might be useful for fighting a deadly beast. Of course she did; It was one of the first things he did for her. It would have been weirder for her not to pass on what she knew after all the hours she spent either seeing him coach the others, or being coached herself. With the time she had under her belt, she was the local Atmo Close Quarters Combat specialist, and no one else understood how the modified boxing she learned worked with their bodies like she did.
He wore a hesitant expression, shifting his weight to his other leg. “Well, they’ve certainly geared up.”
“It is a product our smith is rather proud of,” the Wraith affirmed confidently.
He exhaled slowly. “Seems a bit much.”
She seemed to be expecting the remark, barely pausing to register what he said before responding. “Your kit wishes you safe, yet understands you would not allow her to accompany you. These two wish to be of assistance.”
To punctuate her point, the two nodded in agreement, walking forward and slinging some of the backpacks onto their carriages. It seemed ‘no’ wasn’t something they were going to accept after Violet had said her piece. He sighed, conceding that they wouldn’t slow the party down with everyone carrying so much weight in equipment, regardless of the bags. They took breaks frequently enough to accommodate the Atmo, so that wouldn’t hinder anything either.
“Fine,” he relented with a wave of his hand. “We’ll take them. Not like they’d hurt anyway. But–” He put a warning into his tone. “–they’re not playing the hero and getting themselves killed. This isn’t going to work if they think any of us dying is still a net positive, got it?”
The two Atmo mimed their understanding, Scarlet replying with a victorious smile. Joseph couldn’t help but bemusedly roll his eyes. The female had taken rather well to baby-sitting, and that seems to have extended to humouring the young Queen’s schemes now. It wasn’t an unwelcome addition to their little sojourn. At least they could haul back any larger game without it tacking hours onto the return trip.
He thanked Scarlet for her trouble before dismissing her, confirming with the group that everything was accounted for, and set off before it grew too late. He wasn’t looking to get caught out in the woods during the night. The Lilhuns might be fine, but he was pretty well blind unless the moon felt generous.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Jax watched the two Atmo quietly follow on the sides of the group, their heavily armoured forms posing no issues with their naturally soundless movements in the forest. In the den, they would make moderate clacks and clicks as their chitinous legs contacted the ground, but the soft dirt and foliage stifled all but the smallest report of their travel. With Scarlet supervising alongside Violet, he wouldn’t have been surprised to learn that the former Blade had influenced their movement with the goal in mind, though he had never paid much attention to how they walked before to compare.
He had to admit, having them carry the additional equipment was exceedingly useful. He had proposed having the group use the newly acquired platforms on their more arachnid-like abdomen to rest in shifts, but Joseph was quick to insist that the insects were of lesser stamina than even Lilhuns. The phrasing seemed like a comparative insult, but Jax had more than enough experience with the Human to know that he had simply spoken his mind. To him, everyone had sub-par stamina. Training had gone some way to remedy the discrepancy, but the Grand Hunter could still continue for longer than even the most well-conditioned of them.
The black-furred male rolled his shoulders, feeling the heft of his axe shift with the movement. It was an impressive size, the weight well-balanced and its edge sharp. He had once laid it to the ground out of curiosity and confirmed that it was about as tall as Pan from head to haft, though only if she stood to her full height. Regardless of its size, it was still lighter than the armour he chose to don.
Having only really worn leathers or a few sets of ironwood protections, the encumbering prominence of the iron equipment took getting used to. It wasn’t entirely restrictive, but did put a damper on any chances he had of sprinting from danger. That was fine, he supposed, since he was wearing it against a beast he had no experience with. It could very well outrun him regardless, and he would rather have the defences in either case.
Nalah seemed to be doing fine, the large barrier she kept on her back swaying slightly as she walked. She was unhindered by it, her movements barely affected by the bulk, which was reassuring. Joseph, however, seemed to be panting more than usual, the rolling cloud coverage easing as the sun progressively warmed the environment. The fog from earlier meant that it was rather humid, and that seemed to bore no well wishes for the male encased in dark leathers and thick plates. He had even flipped down his hood, the sweat beading on his skin adding a sheen to his visage.
“I liked this better when the sun didn’t exist,” the Human lamented quietly, just loud enough for Jax to hear. The black-furred male chuckled.
“It would be rather dark.”
Joseph glared at him for a moment before rolling his eyes. “I just don’t rank ‘heavily armoured hike through the woods’ high up on my list of things I want to do regularly.”
“I believe that list would be occupied by your mates, no?” he ribbed playfully, a smirk arising when the Grand Hunter shunted his eyes closed in a grimace.
“I hate you.”
“I can see your smile underneath your displeasure, Joseph,” Jax quipped, nudging the male with his elbow, then giving an apologetic smile when his friend almost fell. Joseph sighed, waving Cobalt over and fetching a water-skin from the luggage that the insect was ferrying without breaking stride—though he needed to be careful not to get stepped on.
The Atmo always amused Jax. Be it their passive demeanour hidden by their towering stature, or his interactions with the den-kit, they never failed to be curious people. Having the two that accompanied Volta with them was an unexpected development, but he couldn’t claim to disapprove. If they had been imparted the methods of combat that Violet had cultivated, then there was little worry of them being harmed by naught but perhaps their current target. At least not until there was a better reference of its strength than the single encounter the first-years had so long ago.
At the time, it had smashed pillars and pierced flesh effortlessly, claws proving to be little more than tempting ministrations of tender touch to the thick hide. Jax only had some of the pack’s recount to base the experience off of, but was content to take their word for it. He was, ashamedly, preoccupied taking care of baser needs when the event transpired, so he was woefully unprepared for the eventual encounter. Still, he was afforded the best the settlement had to offer so that he might serve his duty of protecting the Grand Hunter. Harrow would never forgive him if only he returned.
His thoughts were disturbed by Joseph calling for a rest, Jax’s legs thankful for the break from supporting the unusual weight for so long. The Human dispensed rations and water for the pack, the Atmo waiting until everyone else was supplied before accepting their portion. They rested on their base directly, instead of curling their legs beneath them like Jax had become accustomed. Perhaps the armour impeded such, or they wished to remain mobile in the event such was required. Regardless, they blocked what little breeze there was, forcing the Grand Hunter to walk beyond them to enjoy it in the shade. It was short-lived however, as Rose quickly repositioned to stay between the pack and whatever lay beyond their protections.
It was a futile effort, it seemed, because it repeated again twice before Joseph groaned loudly and threw himself atop the carriage to lay back, his legs dangling at the knee. He seemed perfectly content with the unorthodox arrangement, snorting his amusement along with a muttered comment about a ‘taxi.’
The entertaining sight was marred by a distant yelp, snapping the group to attention. Jax and Joseph traded looks, subtle nods and gestures given to move out while remaining quiet. Ignoring his earlier complaints, the Grand Hunter flicked his hood up and donned the mask, drawing his crossbow and readying a bolt. The hunter of the pack mimicked the preparation, the two security members loosely nocking their arrows while Rose, Cobalt, Jax, and Nalah took point.
They proceeded quietly for far longer than the proximity of the noise would have suggested, but marks and gashes upon the trees implied a moving conflict. Thoughts of it being a lost cause quickly became moot as a closer growl and bark shattered the careful silence they had been maintaining.
Motioning for the pack to stop, Joseph waved Jax forward, Nalah approaching the other side. Using the large shield as additional cover, they peered around a particularly thick tree. Locked in combat were two moss-wolves, both attacking a truly massive grey creature.
Twice the Human’s height, half that in width. Four pillars as legs—the muscular trunks sinewy and defined—supported the disturbing hunched figure, the wide base tapering slightly into a thick and extended torso. A singular eye-stalk replaced the head, the ocular organ atop it pitch black and free of any indication of its focus. Four arms with deadly claws parried and sliced the two yellow beasts as they attempted to drive off the predator, a sickeningly large maw gaping to catch any attempts at a lunge. The mouth of the creature almost occupied the entirety of the available surface area upon its front, the jagged bone tools of manduction undulating with the promise of sustenance.
Joseph pulled them back, cursing under his breath as he tried to fight off the tension. From Nalah’s worried expression, it seemed his caution was rather potent, the other members of the group smelling his reaction as well.
“So, what’s the plan, Jax?” the Human whispered, his grip on the crossbow alternating with his fingers stretching across the trigger lest his fidgeting cause a misfire.
“I thought that, with your record, you would wish to tame it for the settlement,” Jax replied while thinking through a plan of action. He was glad that his friend trusted him, but he wished he had known the true scale of the beast prior. Joseph grit his teeth, turning to glance past the tree again with sarcasm pouring out of his response.
“Can’t quite see Winnie-the-woodchipper there playing great with kids.”
“You say that after adopting an Atmo as kit, Grand Hunter,” he returned, nodding to himself when a plan formed. The Human smiled, the banter easing the tension somewhat. “Rose, Cobalt, you two are the most well defended of us. Circle around and drive the beast this way. You should be capable of such without noise, yes?”
The two insects nodded, emptying their luggage behind a tree so as not to lose any of it before disappearing into the trees. The slight glimmer of their iron armour was the only indication of their position through the dense forest. Jax hoped that the beast was not particularly curious about the dimly pulsing glare, nor finished with its current altercation in time to impede the pair.
Satisfied with their progress, he motioned for the two security members to scale a tree and gain a superior vantage point. Their weapons would be able to maintain a more rapid pace of sustained fire at longer ranges. Joseph and the hunter were instructed to hide behind trees nearby, though the Human would need to remain grounded as his lack of claws made scaling the large flora difficult with his equipment.
Finally, Nalah and he positioned themselves much closer, in order to flank the creature as it fled the Atmo and occupy it long enough for the others to bleed it out, if not outright dispose of it.
With the forms of the Atmo peeking through the brush opposite them, Jax raised his axe to signal the start.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Joseph felt the hammering in his chest, his heart preparing him to fight for his life against the walking abomination that easily outclassed the only other predator that he had experience with. Sure, the moss-wolves were easy to take down once you had equipment and a plan, but that thing screamed danger.
He watched Jax and Nalah set up behind thick trees, their goal being for Jax to hopefully disable a leg or two with the war-axe while Nalah occupied it with the shield. As the two strongest members of his little family, he trusted both to do their job.
As a clusterfuck of animal and torture device, he had no faith in the creature playing along.
Swallowing his hesitation, he adjusted his grip on the crossbow again, mentally tallying his shots and cursing himself for not researching explosives. Sure, Toril didn’t want to be involved in that kind of weapon, but at the moment, the tailless white-furred male could suck it up and make one anyway. Joseph would give his left nut to see how quickly the chemist would make weapons of mass destruction just to annihilate whatever that thing called home.
Jax raised his axe, glinting the sunlight of it towards the Atmo. Receiving the start signal, the two clicked and loosed a deafening screech, the Human’s ears ringing even from this distance.
The beast seemed unperturbed by the noise, though the lack of visible ears may have had something to do with the lacklustre effect. Regardless, it did notice the two armour-clad insects charging at it, and smartly decided to extradite itself from the area. The moss-wolves, however, didn’t quite get the memo, mistaking the advancing assistance as yet another foe to defend themselves from.
He had to say, Violet taught the two well. They flashed their blades out in the same flicker jab that he had shown his daughter, and with an unceremonious squelch, the two bisected canines landed in four pieces, a vibrant green ichor now staining the weapon-like appendages of the Atmo. Undeterred by their first act of violence—as far as he was aware, anyway—they continued herding the beast.
It wasn’t as fast as they might have feared, its quadrupedal gait hindered by its proportions, but it was still quick enough to be damn intimidating. Its arms acted as a counter balance, constantly adjusting this way and that just to keep it stable. That thing was clearly never meant for sprinting, all its mobility being given to the overactive maw that pulsated with the exertion.
He readied his crossbow, the shaking in his hands not ruining his aim against such a large target. He eyeballed the distance between the creature and the ambush point, forcibly moving his finger off the trigger so that he didn’t fire early.
Closer. Come on. Almost.
Now.
Jax wound up like a particularly enthusiastic lumberjack, putting his full body into the rotation. The massive axe swung like a horizontal pendulum striking home with all the finality of a clock tolling midnight. It bit into the front leg of the beast, only sinking a few inches before momentum nearly wretched the weapon from the black-furred male. Luckily, the force and timing was enough to trip it, the creature crashing to the forest floor with a deafening roar of pain.
They could hurt it. That made him feel better.
His relief evaporated as the beast swiftly recovered, hauling itself from the ground faster than he thought possible, but his archers took it for an unspoken signal. Arrows and bolts peppered its thick hide, to no effect—it shrugged off the projectiles like they were nothing more than pine needles, none sinking far enough to gain notable purchase.
Jax hefted his axe for another strike, careful not to over-commit this time. Nalah prodded the beast wherever she could with her pike, the melee weapon sliced and skewered just past the surface of the hide, though not enough to do more than marr. It was, however, enough to gain the attention of the target, the creature swinging two of its four arms to rake across the shield that the blond-furred female held. The iron plating across the front let out an unearthly shriek as claws ripped and crumpled the metal.
Well, fuck.
Nalah was quick to react, treating the shield less as an immovable barrier and more like a slight distance buffer, dodging in and out of range to steal jabs with the polearm. The security members nocked another volley, picking different targets than before. An arrow bounced harmlessly off the black orb of an eye, another finding purchase in what passed for gums in its mouth.
The hint was received; aim for the mouth. Thankfully, that was a large target. Less thankfully, it realized that flashing its teeth was detrimental to its health, slamming the maw closed.
Jax managed another swing, this time into one of the rear legs. It wasn’t as effective as the first strike, but it did warrant a sweeping double back-fist from the creature, scoring Jax’s armour with shallow claw marks as he jumped backwards. Joseph let out a breath as he fired his second shot, only just narrowly missing the sliver of a gap between razor teeth that the enraged attack afforded. It couldn’t keep its mouth shut forever, each frenzied swipe pulling its form enough for glimpses of softer flesh within to appear. The hunter dropped from their tree, darting across to reposition for a wider angle to capitalize on. The creature noticed, lunging forward to eviscerate the easier target.
Joseph blinked as two armoured figures jumped in front of the Lilhun, raising their blades in a tight guard to block the four arms grabbing for a quick meal. The beast recoiled with a thunderous screech, two of its appendages sporting deep gashes that fountained blood, while the others managed to impact above the edged outside of the blades. Rose and Cobalt pressed forward, buying time and space for the hunter to collect themselves and scale up another perch. Taking advantage of its pain, two new arrows ripped through the air, smacking into exposed inner flesh. Two new protrusions joined the first in the mouth, one landing next to the existing projectile, while the other cleared the gateway of serration, driving deeply inside of it.
More flicker jabs and extended straights pushed and cut the beast as it tried to gain distance from the two that wounded it, every retaliatory strike earning it another gash in its grey hide.. Unencumbered by the constant barrage, Nalah thrust into its legs more vigorously, her body leaning into each attack to gain every inch of penetration she could into the muscle and thick hide.
Jax used the chance to score another chopping blow, doubling down on a previous wound to a back leg—striking bone this time, based on the unholy wail the beast uttered. Joseph raised his crossbow to land another shot into its mouth, but the beast flailed wildly to fend off the ambush.
Rose managed to block, Jax lunged backwards, Nalah deflected most of it with what remained of her shield, but Cobalt was caught by a strike, taking the hit to its torso. The Atmo flew backwards, rolling when it landed, the carriage and assorted armoured plates trailing behind it. Rose shifted instantly, covering the direction that their companion had been sent while Jax and Nalah focused on pulling the beast away from the downed combatant.
Joseph’s eyes flicked to the Atmo, waging an internal battle on whether helping the insect would be better or worse for the situation as a whole. He didn’t want to lighten up their assault if it would just mean more injuries, but Cobalt could be in dire need for a patch job. It was hard to tell from where he was.
Cursing, he bolted from his spot, firing off one last round into the gaping maw before clipping the crossbow onto his armour and sliding on his knees in front of Cobalt, healroot hastily retrieved from his pocket.
He paused, sighing in relief when none of the armour bore more than deep gashes, the carapace underneath unblemished by the attack. Cobalt clicked lightly, dazed, but otherwise seeming unhurt. Unlearned in the physiology relevant, he ushered the Atmo to remain out of the fight for fear of concussion or something similar. They could look at the insect back at the base to be sure later.
“Joseph!”
His head spun around at both Jax and Nalah screaming his name, a massive clawed hand sweeping at him—the monster's approach unnoticed while he focused on Cobalt. Lacking a better option, he lunged forward towards the underside of the beast to dodge the swipe, crashing to his shoulder on the dirt below.
The creature raised a leg above Joseph, pounding the earth scant inches from his head as he rolled sideways. Ignoring the kicked up dirt, he brought his fist to the underside of the beast, flicking the release on his bracer.
Blood spouted from the newly formed wound, the blade breaking at the mechanism as the massive animal lurched in pain, Joseph rolling out of the way of another attempted trampling. He scrambled to his feet, feeling the wind of another strike narrowly missing him.
Yeah, that would probably kill him.
Luckily, the injuries renewed the desire to flee in the monstrosity, the group of attackers proving too dangerous to continue challenging. It stumbled away from them, sparing Cobalt from its panicked trudging. Jax and Nalah started to run towards him, worry evident in their eyes, but he barked for them to finish it, redirecting the two to keep the pressure going. He didn’t want to mention the pain in the arm from where the bracer hitched. It didn’t feel broken, and thus was irrelevant.
Pressure applied, the grey beast picked a random direction free of opponents to escape, ignorant of the waiting security. When it was too close for them to shoot into its mouth at a decent angle, they slung the bows over their shoulders and drew the swords they had been afforded, patiently waiting with the blades turned down.
It passed below them, the two Lilhuns dropping from the branches to put their full weight into the plunging blades. Both landed on the large target, one sword sinking deep into a shoulder, while the other managed to pierce one of its hip joints. The beast spun haphazardly to dislodge the ‘new’ threats, both security members kicking off and finding new trees to set up in.
Whatever damage was actually done, it had lost the use of an arm, and its gait shifted awkwardly as the blade lodged in its hip worked more harm with each shambling step.. Emboldened, Jax picked up the pace, struggling to position himself with the amount of metal he wore. Ducking another swipe of its claws, he saw his chance and swung, pivoting with his axe as a counter weight. For the third time, his axe blade found the wound in its leg, adding a sickening crunch as the bone snapped from the impact.
The creature swung wildly, forced to favour its two remaining good legs, and the only other leg that could still support at least some of its weight. It was unstable now, the hunched figure swaying while unmoving. Unable to run, it decided to go down with as many of them as it could.
Rose caught up with the attack, drawing attention from the comparatively squishy Nalah as the blond-furred female deflected a wayward swing with her shield. The once iron-plated ironwood now sporting little more than jagged scraps of metal atop its silver wooden structure, a series of deep gouges marring the surface. Two lunging thrusts with the pike bit flesh, drawing new blood from the beast.
Joseph loaded his crossbow, getting off two bolts, but not managing to keep it steady enough to hit anything of use, his arm faltering under the weight of the weapon. Cursing, he decided to flank the beast and try his luck with the other bracer. If nothing else, the force in which the blade deployed was enough to pierce the thick hide, and the others were doing a good job of distracting it.
The red armoured Atmo let loose a series of directed swings, the fifth severing an arm in motion, the flying appendage forcing Nalah to raise her shield to block the unorthodox projectile. The female was sent sprawling from the weight of the impact, but the beast was too busy voicing its agony to take advantage of it. Jax worked another two chops into the broad legs, but neither managed to incapacitate it any more, and the prolonged exertion was slowing his reflexes.
As if cued into his waning energy, the beast flung Jax with another strike, the hunter of the group sinking a bolt deep into the cavernous flesh of its mouth to prevent an attempt at following up.
Joseph roared, desperate to finish it off before the creature could do the same to his downed pack. He sprinted at the monster's back and slid underneath it with as much speed as he could muster. Throwing his fist into the passing undercarriage, he let the deployed blade leave a long gash in its wake.
The grey monster lost its ability to stand, torn tendons, blood loss, and inflicted injuries taking their toll. The Grand Hunter kicked off his knees to fling himself out of the way of the collapsing figure, grimacing as the remaining bracer proved unable to support the abuse he had put it through. He looked back at the beast, the flailing body failing to right itself as teeth did little more than gouge dirt, its back exposed. Rose approached, raising their blades together and plunging it through the body over and over until it stopped moving.
Exhausted, the Atmo dropped where it was, breathing heavily. Joseph’s instinct to yell their victory was delayed as he hurried over to Jax and Nalah to confirm he didn't need to bring back bad news. Nalah seemed fine, if a bit sore from hitting the dirt and rolling, while Jax just asked to lay down when he heard that everything was over. Cobalt came over to the group, the armour that had come off collected atop the carriage it had managed to loosely affix to its base.
It was light, a chuckle originating from the Human as he slumped to the ground against a tree, but soon the entire group was roaring with laughter as victory settled in their minds. The two security members helped the hunter begin disassembling the beast, their contribution to the fight leaving them with more energy than the rest. They hadn’t been slacking off, that much was certain. The number of arrows jammed into the maw of the thing would have guaranteed a few extra seconds of survival and chances to escape if one of them had been forcibly tossed into there, and it had caused enough pause for the rest of them to get in a few hits up close.
Joseph rested across from Jax and Nalah, letting his heart rate slow from the rapid pace it had been pinned to since the start of the conflict. His arm continued its protests, but from the amount of movement he still had, he guessed that he had just strained the elbow. A few days taking it easy should straighten that right up.
Once the active members were about half way through processing the creature for hide and meat, Cobalt approached him, a mimed request for assistance putting their armour back on being redirected to Nalah since he doubted he could lift the damn pieces without hurting himself at the moment. She obliged, getting the blue Atmo back in full attire, though it took a while.
Rose stood first, stopping over to allow the hunter to place collected bits and pieces onto the carriage before securing it with whatever they could make due. A security member gathered the moss-wolf corpses for a similar treatment. Waste not, want not, he supposed.
Rose ended up carrying most of their spoils. When he was about to ask why, he, Jax, and Nalah were dragged to Cobalt and hefted onto the carriage. A series of confused questions revealed that the rest wanted to head back before it started getting dark, and it was pretty obvious who was the most exhausted of them. Lacking the will or energy to argue it, he flopped back on the Atmo as the trees passed them by, Nalah resting her legs across him as her head sat on Jax’s lap. The black-furred male didn’t so much as smirk, so it was clear he had pushed himself too far to quip about the arrangement as he laid down.
“The next time you wish to exhaust me this much, Joseph,” the Head of Security started after a long while of silence, tiredness in his voice, “I would prefer it to involve my mate and a bed.”
The Human snorted, closing his eyes and enjoying the lack of walking as the surprisingly stable Atmo carried the three of them. “Fuck off, Jax.”
“Of course, Grand Hunter.”
Next
A/N: Patreon is fixed!... aka new one cuz problems with the last. Check it out to support the story, get AI character art every now and then, or even preview sections of chapters as i write them! (aka, before kieve gets to fix them :D)
submitted by WaveOfWire to HFY [link] [comments]
u/KieveKRS providing the Trash certification of quality! (with help from u/coldfireknight cuz this one needed it.)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Nalah affixed the massive shield to her back, the rectangular form large enough for him to fit behind while only needing to crouch slightly. It was mostly ironwood, but the sides and front were metal-plated, so it still weighed a considerable amount. Despite that, the thing’s bulk hardly seemed to be noticed by the blonde-furred female, likely due to the constant construction work she involved herself in. It paired oddly with the long pike she insisted on using, but he couldn’t deny that poking at things while hiding behind a mobile wall sounded like a good idea.
Jax was wearing his new armour, the bulky chest-piece a mirror of his blond-furred pack mate’s. Though he forwent the protection a buckler or likewise would offer, he doubled up on gear. Gauntlets, vambraces, pauldrons, and anything else he could wear to compliment the massive axe he had taken a liking to.
Where Nalah was fitted to look like an apocalypse survivor—her protections limited to her torso, forearms, and shield—the black-furred male resembled a giant, if underfunded, paladin. All he needed now was some religious imagery and a penchant for exalting the qualities of their god. Joseph almost nudged the guy to suggest it for kicks.
On second thought, he decided that Jax absolutely did not need a reason to start yelling about the Human-turned-religious-figure, because there was no way in hell he wouldn’t. There was no telling what he would choose to say, and the Grand Hunter was perfectly happy never knowing.
Having been with the male as long as he had, it would probably involve ‘taming’ females or something else that would leave him groaning for weeks, if not just contemplating another high-dive from the cliff.
Joseph fixed his own equipment, the ‘Wraith armour’ worn over his own thin iron breastplate. He wasn’t thrilled to wear the extra weight, but it beat being mauled by the thing they were heading out to kill. The trips so far had been tolerable, fog and overcast skies keeping the temperature in check, but he didn’t want to go out in this on a hotter day as Summer really kicked back in. He was sweaty enough without baking inside all this crap.
He adjusted the wolf-skull mask, the rest of the hunting party having gotten over the worst of the unease it gave them. Though they’d needed to rotate people out for the sake of fairness, this would be their eighth consecutive scouting. Using the information that Raine and Faye provided, they narrowed down a likely stomping grounds for the creature and were systematically clearing sectors. It might have been discouraging to keep looking after so long, but the occasional marking on trees and the odd moss-wolf corpse tipped them off that they were getting close. There was still another week’s worth of searching left if today wasn’t the day, but somehow he doubted they wouldn’t need that long.
All in all, they numbered six; larger parties were attempted, but their efforts at stealth quickly became pointless between so many trudging through the forest and stopping for breaks. There was a bit of a scare where one of Mi’low’s pack went missing, but the guy had just stopped to relieve himself. Since the discovery was made by someone else knocking him over in the process by mistake, they decided that keeping the number smaller made communication easier. And lowered the amount of grumbling about needing a bath.
Jax, Nalah, two security members, one of the hunters, and him. Sure, grabbing Tel or the Wraiths would have been a bit more useful for cohesion, but they were all busy with things, and he didn’t want to grind everything in the settlement to a halt for nothing if the search turned up empty again. They were more suited to taking out their fellow Lilhun than some monster in the woods, as much as he disliked the thought.
Scarlet was spending a lot of time with Violet and the new Atmo, Faye was spending much of her recovery with the moss-wolves and moss-pup, and Tel was in the process of helping Harrow shore up the few security members that were slated to become snipers. Kaslin was still learning chemistry with Toril, and Raine was helping whoever needed a hand, so that marked off all of his usual accompaniment. He could have taken more of his direct pack, but they all had important things to take care of as well.
Sahari was managing the pack and putting people where people needed to be put, Pan was working with Idee and Heralt to make a line of armour for the whole pack, and Mi’low was...well, Mi’low. He was pretty sure she was unofficially the master of the hunter’s lodge and spent most of her time keeping track of what came in and out of it, while also making sure that everyone got their fair share. It needed to be done with the settlement growing as much as it had, and it kept Mi’low busy enough to stymie the flow of complaints, so he wasn’t about to complain.
They double checked that they had everything that was needed; food, water, arrows, bolts, and some bags to store anything that the snares had caught on the way back. Four ranged and two melee weapons meant that they would be mostly using Jax and Nalah to soak hits if it came down to it, the others peppering it with projectiles. Given that Harrow was insistent on the bear-thing being resistant to anything they could use at a distance, they also carried spare weapons for the ranged users, just in case. Nodding, Joseph gestured to the group finishing up their preparations for the day’s trip.
“A moment, sir?” Scarlet called to him as she approached the gate, the Wraith flanked by Rose and Cobalt. The two Atmo were decked-out in their own armour, which appeared to be almost entirely metal, save for the palm lining the inside for comfort. Each of their six legs were adorned with broad shields, their bases capped off with a flat storage carriage. They looked like someone had a little too much fun testing how much the insects could effortlessly carry and had ended up with sapient hexapedal tanks.
“Only if you explain why those two would look more at home if they had cannons installed on their backs,” he quipped, an expression somewhere between surprised, amused, and plain dumbfounded plastered on his face. The blackish red-furred female smirked for a split-second before resuming her usual servile presentation.
“The young mistress had extended her request for these two to accompany you.”
Joseph tilted his head incredulously. “Violet told you to send them?”
Scarlet nodded, gesturing to the outfitted Atmo. “They have been under her tutelage for some time now, and wish to be of assistance.”
The Grand Hunter snapped his mouth closed when he was about to ask why his daughter would teach them anything that might be useful for fighting a deadly beast. Of course she did; It was one of the first things he did for her. It would have been weirder for her not to pass on what she knew after all the hours she spent either seeing him coach the others, or being coached herself. With the time she had under her belt, she was the local Atmo Close Quarters Combat specialist, and no one else understood how the modified boxing she learned worked with their bodies like she did.
He wore a hesitant expression, shifting his weight to his other leg. “Well, they’ve certainly geared up.”
“It is a product our smith is rather proud of,” the Wraith affirmed confidently.
He exhaled slowly. “Seems a bit much.”
She seemed to be expecting the remark, barely pausing to register what he said before responding. “Your kit wishes you safe, yet understands you would not allow her to accompany you. These two wish to be of assistance.”
To punctuate her point, the two nodded in agreement, walking forward and slinging some of the backpacks onto their carriages. It seemed ‘no’ wasn’t something they were going to accept after Violet had said her piece. He sighed, conceding that they wouldn’t slow the party down with everyone carrying so much weight in equipment, regardless of the bags. They took breaks frequently enough to accommodate the Atmo, so that wouldn’t hinder anything either.
“Fine,” he relented with a wave of his hand. “We’ll take them. Not like they’d hurt anyway. But–” He put a warning into his tone. “–they’re not playing the hero and getting themselves killed. This isn’t going to work if they think any of us dying is still a net positive, got it?”
The two Atmo mimed their understanding, Scarlet replying with a victorious smile. Joseph couldn’t help but bemusedly roll his eyes. The female had taken rather well to baby-sitting, and that seems to have extended to humouring the young Queen’s schemes now. It wasn’t an unwelcome addition to their little sojourn. At least they could haul back any larger game without it tacking hours onto the return trip.
He thanked Scarlet for her trouble before dismissing her, confirming with the group that everything was accounted for, and set off before it grew too late. He wasn’t looking to get caught out in the woods during the night. The Lilhuns might be fine, but he was pretty well blind unless the moon felt generous.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Jax watched the two Atmo quietly follow on the sides of the group, their heavily armoured forms posing no issues with their naturally soundless movements in the forest. In the den, they would make moderate clacks and clicks as their chitinous legs contacted the ground, but the soft dirt and foliage stifled all but the smallest report of their travel. With Scarlet supervising alongside Violet, he wouldn’t have been surprised to learn that the former Blade had influenced their movement with the goal in mind, though he had never paid much attention to how they walked before to compare.
He had to admit, having them carry the additional equipment was exceedingly useful. He had proposed having the group use the newly acquired platforms on their more arachnid-like abdomen to rest in shifts, but Joseph was quick to insist that the insects were of lesser stamina than even Lilhuns. The phrasing seemed like a comparative insult, but Jax had more than enough experience with the Human to know that he had simply spoken his mind. To him, everyone had sub-par stamina. Training had gone some way to remedy the discrepancy, but the Grand Hunter could still continue for longer than even the most well-conditioned of them.
The black-furred male rolled his shoulders, feeling the heft of his axe shift with the movement. It was an impressive size, the weight well-balanced and its edge sharp. He had once laid it to the ground out of curiosity and confirmed that it was about as tall as Pan from head to haft, though only if she stood to her full height. Regardless of its size, it was still lighter than the armour he chose to don.
Having only really worn leathers or a few sets of ironwood protections, the encumbering prominence of the iron equipment took getting used to. It wasn’t entirely restrictive, but did put a damper on any chances he had of sprinting from danger. That was fine, he supposed, since he was wearing it against a beast he had no experience with. It could very well outrun him regardless, and he would rather have the defences in either case.
Nalah seemed to be doing fine, the large barrier she kept on her back swaying slightly as she walked. She was unhindered by it, her movements barely affected by the bulk, which was reassuring. Joseph, however, seemed to be panting more than usual, the rolling cloud coverage easing as the sun progressively warmed the environment. The fog from earlier meant that it was rather humid, and that seemed to bore no well wishes for the male encased in dark leathers and thick plates. He had even flipped down his hood, the sweat beading on his skin adding a sheen to his visage.
“I liked this better when the sun didn’t exist,” the Human lamented quietly, just loud enough for Jax to hear. The black-furred male chuckled.
“It would be rather dark.”
Joseph glared at him for a moment before rolling his eyes. “I just don’t rank ‘heavily armoured hike through the woods’ high up on my list of things I want to do regularly.”
“I believe that list would be occupied by your mates, no?” he ribbed playfully, a smirk arising when the Grand Hunter shunted his eyes closed in a grimace.
“I hate you.”
“I can see your smile underneath your displeasure, Joseph,” Jax quipped, nudging the male with his elbow, then giving an apologetic smile when his friend almost fell. Joseph sighed, waving Cobalt over and fetching a water-skin from the luggage that the insect was ferrying without breaking stride—though he needed to be careful not to get stepped on.
The Atmo always amused Jax. Be it their passive demeanour hidden by their towering stature, or his interactions with the den-kit, they never failed to be curious people. Having the two that accompanied Volta with them was an unexpected development, but he couldn’t claim to disapprove. If they had been imparted the methods of combat that Violet had cultivated, then there was little worry of them being harmed by naught but perhaps their current target. At least not until there was a better reference of its strength than the single encounter the first-years had so long ago.
At the time, it had smashed pillars and pierced flesh effortlessly, claws proving to be little more than tempting ministrations of tender touch to the thick hide. Jax only had some of the pack’s recount to base the experience off of, but was content to take their word for it. He was, ashamedly, preoccupied taking care of baser needs when the event transpired, so he was woefully unprepared for the eventual encounter. Still, he was afforded the best the settlement had to offer so that he might serve his duty of protecting the Grand Hunter. Harrow would never forgive him if only he returned.
His thoughts were disturbed by Joseph calling for a rest, Jax’s legs thankful for the break from supporting the unusual weight for so long. The Human dispensed rations and water for the pack, the Atmo waiting until everyone else was supplied before accepting their portion. They rested on their base directly, instead of curling their legs beneath them like Jax had become accustomed. Perhaps the armour impeded such, or they wished to remain mobile in the event such was required. Regardless, they blocked what little breeze there was, forcing the Grand Hunter to walk beyond them to enjoy it in the shade. It was short-lived however, as Rose quickly repositioned to stay between the pack and whatever lay beyond their protections.
It was a futile effort, it seemed, because it repeated again twice before Joseph groaned loudly and threw himself atop the carriage to lay back, his legs dangling at the knee. He seemed perfectly content with the unorthodox arrangement, snorting his amusement along with a muttered comment about a ‘taxi.’
The entertaining sight was marred by a distant yelp, snapping the group to attention. Jax and Joseph traded looks, subtle nods and gestures given to move out while remaining quiet. Ignoring his earlier complaints, the Grand Hunter flicked his hood up and donned the mask, drawing his crossbow and readying a bolt. The hunter of the pack mimicked the preparation, the two security members loosely nocking their arrows while Rose, Cobalt, Jax, and Nalah took point.
They proceeded quietly for far longer than the proximity of the noise would have suggested, but marks and gashes upon the trees implied a moving conflict. Thoughts of it being a lost cause quickly became moot as a closer growl and bark shattered the careful silence they had been maintaining.
Motioning for the pack to stop, Joseph waved Jax forward, Nalah approaching the other side. Using the large shield as additional cover, they peered around a particularly thick tree. Locked in combat were two moss-wolves, both attacking a truly massive grey creature.
Twice the Human’s height, half that in width. Four pillars as legs—the muscular trunks sinewy and defined—supported the disturbing hunched figure, the wide base tapering slightly into a thick and extended torso. A singular eye-stalk replaced the head, the ocular organ atop it pitch black and free of any indication of its focus. Four arms with deadly claws parried and sliced the two yellow beasts as they attempted to drive off the predator, a sickeningly large maw gaping to catch any attempts at a lunge. The mouth of the creature almost occupied the entirety of the available surface area upon its front, the jagged bone tools of manduction undulating with the promise of sustenance.
Joseph pulled them back, cursing under his breath as he tried to fight off the tension. From Nalah’s worried expression, it seemed his caution was rather potent, the other members of the group smelling his reaction as well.
“So, what’s the plan, Jax?” the Human whispered, his grip on the crossbow alternating with his fingers stretching across the trigger lest his fidgeting cause a misfire.
“I thought that, with your record, you would wish to tame it for the settlement,” Jax replied while thinking through a plan of action. He was glad that his friend trusted him, but he wished he had known the true scale of the beast prior. Joseph grit his teeth, turning to glance past the tree again with sarcasm pouring out of his response.
“Can’t quite see Winnie-the-woodchipper there playing great with kids.”
“You say that after adopting an Atmo as kit, Grand Hunter,” he returned, nodding to himself when a plan formed. The Human smiled, the banter easing the tension somewhat. “Rose, Cobalt, you two are the most well defended of us. Circle around and drive the beast this way. You should be capable of such without noise, yes?”
The two insects nodded, emptying their luggage behind a tree so as not to lose any of it before disappearing into the trees. The slight glimmer of their iron armour was the only indication of their position through the dense forest. Jax hoped that the beast was not particularly curious about the dimly pulsing glare, nor finished with its current altercation in time to impede the pair.
Satisfied with their progress, he motioned for the two security members to scale a tree and gain a superior vantage point. Their weapons would be able to maintain a more rapid pace of sustained fire at longer ranges. Joseph and the hunter were instructed to hide behind trees nearby, though the Human would need to remain grounded as his lack of claws made scaling the large flora difficult with his equipment.
Finally, Nalah and he positioned themselves much closer, in order to flank the creature as it fled the Atmo and occupy it long enough for the others to bleed it out, if not outright dispose of it.
With the forms of the Atmo peeking through the brush opposite them, Jax raised his axe to signal the start.
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Joseph felt the hammering in his chest, his heart preparing him to fight for his life against the walking abomination that easily outclassed the only other predator that he had experience with. Sure, the moss-wolves were easy to take down once you had equipment and a plan, but that thing screamed danger.
He watched Jax and Nalah set up behind thick trees, their goal being for Jax to hopefully disable a leg or two with the war-axe while Nalah occupied it with the shield. As the two strongest members of his little family, he trusted both to do their job.
As a clusterfuck of animal and torture device, he had no faith in the creature playing along.
Swallowing his hesitation, he adjusted his grip on the crossbow again, mentally tallying his shots and cursing himself for not researching explosives. Sure, Toril didn’t want to be involved in that kind of weapon, but at the moment, the tailless white-furred male could suck it up and make one anyway. Joseph would give his left nut to see how quickly the chemist would make weapons of mass destruction just to annihilate whatever that thing called home.
Jax raised his axe, glinting the sunlight of it towards the Atmo. Receiving the start signal, the two clicked and loosed a deafening screech, the Human’s ears ringing even from this distance.
The beast seemed unperturbed by the noise, though the lack of visible ears may have had something to do with the lacklustre effect. Regardless, it did notice the two armour-clad insects charging at it, and smartly decided to extradite itself from the area. The moss-wolves, however, didn’t quite get the memo, mistaking the advancing assistance as yet another foe to defend themselves from.
He had to say, Violet taught the two well. They flashed their blades out in the same flicker jab that he had shown his daughter, and with an unceremonious squelch, the two bisected canines landed in four pieces, a vibrant green ichor now staining the weapon-like appendages of the Atmo. Undeterred by their first act of violence—as far as he was aware, anyway—they continued herding the beast.
It wasn’t as fast as they might have feared, its quadrupedal gait hindered by its proportions, but it was still quick enough to be damn intimidating. Its arms acted as a counter balance, constantly adjusting this way and that just to keep it stable. That thing was clearly never meant for sprinting, all its mobility being given to the overactive maw that pulsated with the exertion.
He readied his crossbow, the shaking in his hands not ruining his aim against such a large target. He eyeballed the distance between the creature and the ambush point, forcibly moving his finger off the trigger so that he didn’t fire early.
Closer. Come on. Almost.
Now.
Jax wound up like a particularly enthusiastic lumberjack, putting his full body into the rotation. The massive axe swung like a horizontal pendulum striking home with all the finality of a clock tolling midnight. It bit into the front leg of the beast, only sinking a few inches before momentum nearly wretched the weapon from the black-furred male. Luckily, the force and timing was enough to trip it, the creature crashing to the forest floor with a deafening roar of pain.
They could hurt it. That made him feel better.
His relief evaporated as the beast swiftly recovered, hauling itself from the ground faster than he thought possible, but his archers took it for an unspoken signal. Arrows and bolts peppered its thick hide, to no effect—it shrugged off the projectiles like they were nothing more than pine needles, none sinking far enough to gain notable purchase.
Jax hefted his axe for another strike, careful not to over-commit this time. Nalah prodded the beast wherever she could with her pike, the melee weapon sliced and skewered just past the surface of the hide, though not enough to do more than marr. It was, however, enough to gain the attention of the target, the creature swinging two of its four arms to rake across the shield that the blond-furred female held. The iron plating across the front let out an unearthly shriek as claws ripped and crumpled the metal.
Well, fuck.
Nalah was quick to react, treating the shield less as an immovable barrier and more like a slight distance buffer, dodging in and out of range to steal jabs with the polearm. The security members nocked another volley, picking different targets than before. An arrow bounced harmlessly off the black orb of an eye, another finding purchase in what passed for gums in its mouth.
The hint was received; aim for the mouth. Thankfully, that was a large target. Less thankfully, it realized that flashing its teeth was detrimental to its health, slamming the maw closed.
Jax managed another swing, this time into one of the rear legs. It wasn’t as effective as the first strike, but it did warrant a sweeping double back-fist from the creature, scoring Jax’s armour with shallow claw marks as he jumped backwards. Joseph let out a breath as he fired his second shot, only just narrowly missing the sliver of a gap between razor teeth that the enraged attack afforded. It couldn’t keep its mouth shut forever, each frenzied swipe pulling its form enough for glimpses of softer flesh within to appear. The hunter dropped from their tree, darting across to reposition for a wider angle to capitalize on. The creature noticed, lunging forward to eviscerate the easier target.
Joseph blinked as two armoured figures jumped in front of the Lilhun, raising their blades in a tight guard to block the four arms grabbing for a quick meal. The beast recoiled with a thunderous screech, two of its appendages sporting deep gashes that fountained blood, while the others managed to impact above the edged outside of the blades. Rose and Cobalt pressed forward, buying time and space for the hunter to collect themselves and scale up another perch. Taking advantage of its pain, two new arrows ripped through the air, smacking into exposed inner flesh. Two new protrusions joined the first in the mouth, one landing next to the existing projectile, while the other cleared the gateway of serration, driving deeply inside of it.
More flicker jabs and extended straights pushed and cut the beast as it tried to gain distance from the two that wounded it, every retaliatory strike earning it another gash in its grey hide.. Unencumbered by the constant barrage, Nalah thrust into its legs more vigorously, her body leaning into each attack to gain every inch of penetration she could into the muscle and thick hide.
Jax used the chance to score another chopping blow, doubling down on a previous wound to a back leg—striking bone this time, based on the unholy wail the beast uttered. Joseph raised his crossbow to land another shot into its mouth, but the beast flailed wildly to fend off the ambush.
Rose managed to block, Jax lunged backwards, Nalah deflected most of it with what remained of her shield, but Cobalt was caught by a strike, taking the hit to its torso. The Atmo flew backwards, rolling when it landed, the carriage and assorted armoured plates trailing behind it. Rose shifted instantly, covering the direction that their companion had been sent while Jax and Nalah focused on pulling the beast away from the downed combatant.
Joseph’s eyes flicked to the Atmo, waging an internal battle on whether helping the insect would be better or worse for the situation as a whole. He didn’t want to lighten up their assault if it would just mean more injuries, but Cobalt could be in dire need for a patch job. It was hard to tell from where he was.
Cursing, he bolted from his spot, firing off one last round into the gaping maw before clipping the crossbow onto his armour and sliding on his knees in front of Cobalt, healroot hastily retrieved from his pocket.
He paused, sighing in relief when none of the armour bore more than deep gashes, the carapace underneath unblemished by the attack. Cobalt clicked lightly, dazed, but otherwise seeming unhurt. Unlearned in the physiology relevant, he ushered the Atmo to remain out of the fight for fear of concussion or something similar. They could look at the insect back at the base to be sure later.
“Joseph!”
His head spun around at both Jax and Nalah screaming his name, a massive clawed hand sweeping at him—the monster's approach unnoticed while he focused on Cobalt. Lacking a better option, he lunged forward towards the underside of the beast to dodge the swipe, crashing to his shoulder on the dirt below.
The creature raised a leg above Joseph, pounding the earth scant inches from his head as he rolled sideways. Ignoring the kicked up dirt, he brought his fist to the underside of the beast, flicking the release on his bracer.
Blood spouted from the newly formed wound, the blade breaking at the mechanism as the massive animal lurched in pain, Joseph rolling out of the way of another attempted trampling. He scrambled to his feet, feeling the wind of another strike narrowly missing him.
Yeah, that would probably kill him.
Luckily, the injuries renewed the desire to flee in the monstrosity, the group of attackers proving too dangerous to continue challenging. It stumbled away from them, sparing Cobalt from its panicked trudging. Jax and Nalah started to run towards him, worry evident in their eyes, but he barked for them to finish it, redirecting the two to keep the pressure going. He didn’t want to mention the pain in the arm from where the bracer hitched. It didn’t feel broken, and thus was irrelevant.
Pressure applied, the grey beast picked a random direction free of opponents to escape, ignorant of the waiting security. When it was too close for them to shoot into its mouth at a decent angle, they slung the bows over their shoulders and drew the swords they had been afforded, patiently waiting with the blades turned down.
It passed below them, the two Lilhuns dropping from the branches to put their full weight into the plunging blades. Both landed on the large target, one sword sinking deep into a shoulder, while the other managed to pierce one of its hip joints. The beast spun haphazardly to dislodge the ‘new’ threats, both security members kicking off and finding new trees to set up in.
Whatever damage was actually done, it had lost the use of an arm, and its gait shifted awkwardly as the blade lodged in its hip worked more harm with each shambling step.. Emboldened, Jax picked up the pace, struggling to position himself with the amount of metal he wore. Ducking another swipe of its claws, he saw his chance and swung, pivoting with his axe as a counter weight. For the third time, his axe blade found the wound in its leg, adding a sickening crunch as the bone snapped from the impact.
The creature swung wildly, forced to favour its two remaining good legs, and the only other leg that could still support at least some of its weight. It was unstable now, the hunched figure swaying while unmoving. Unable to run, it decided to go down with as many of them as it could.
Rose caught up with the attack, drawing attention from the comparatively squishy Nalah as the blond-furred female deflected a wayward swing with her shield. The once iron-plated ironwood now sporting little more than jagged scraps of metal atop its silver wooden structure, a series of deep gouges marring the surface. Two lunging thrusts with the pike bit flesh, drawing new blood from the beast.
Joseph loaded his crossbow, getting off two bolts, but not managing to keep it steady enough to hit anything of use, his arm faltering under the weight of the weapon. Cursing, he decided to flank the beast and try his luck with the other bracer. If nothing else, the force in which the blade deployed was enough to pierce the thick hide, and the others were doing a good job of distracting it.
The red armoured Atmo let loose a series of directed swings, the fifth severing an arm in motion, the flying appendage forcing Nalah to raise her shield to block the unorthodox projectile. The female was sent sprawling from the weight of the impact, but the beast was too busy voicing its agony to take advantage of it. Jax worked another two chops into the broad legs, but neither managed to incapacitate it any more, and the prolonged exertion was slowing his reflexes.
As if cued into his waning energy, the beast flung Jax with another strike, the hunter of the group sinking a bolt deep into the cavernous flesh of its mouth to prevent an attempt at following up.
Joseph roared, desperate to finish it off before the creature could do the same to his downed pack. He sprinted at the monster's back and slid underneath it with as much speed as he could muster. Throwing his fist into the passing undercarriage, he let the deployed blade leave a long gash in its wake.
The grey monster lost its ability to stand, torn tendons, blood loss, and inflicted injuries taking their toll. The Grand Hunter kicked off his knees to fling himself out of the way of the collapsing figure, grimacing as the remaining bracer proved unable to support the abuse he had put it through. He looked back at the beast, the flailing body failing to right itself as teeth did little more than gouge dirt, its back exposed. Rose approached, raising their blades together and plunging it through the body over and over until it stopped moving.
Exhausted, the Atmo dropped where it was, breathing heavily. Joseph’s instinct to yell their victory was delayed as he hurried over to Jax and Nalah to confirm he didn't need to bring back bad news. Nalah seemed fine, if a bit sore from hitting the dirt and rolling, while Jax just asked to lay down when he heard that everything was over. Cobalt came over to the group, the armour that had come off collected atop the carriage it had managed to loosely affix to its base.
It was light, a chuckle originating from the Human as he slumped to the ground against a tree, but soon the entire group was roaring with laughter as victory settled in their minds. The two security members helped the hunter begin disassembling the beast, their contribution to the fight leaving them with more energy than the rest. They hadn’t been slacking off, that much was certain. The number of arrows jammed into the maw of the thing would have guaranteed a few extra seconds of survival and chances to escape if one of them had been forcibly tossed into there, and it had caused enough pause for the rest of them to get in a few hits up close.
Joseph rested across from Jax and Nalah, letting his heart rate slow from the rapid pace it had been pinned to since the start of the conflict. His arm continued its protests, but from the amount of movement he still had, he guessed that he had just strained the elbow. A few days taking it easy should straighten that right up.
Once the active members were about half way through processing the creature for hide and meat, Cobalt approached him, a mimed request for assistance putting their armour back on being redirected to Nalah since he doubted he could lift the damn pieces without hurting himself at the moment. She obliged, getting the blue Atmo back in full attire, though it took a while.
Rose stood first, stopping over to allow the hunter to place collected bits and pieces onto the carriage before securing it with whatever they could make due. A security member gathered the moss-wolf corpses for a similar treatment. Waste not, want not, he supposed.
Rose ended up carrying most of their spoils. When he was about to ask why, he, Jax, and Nalah were dragged to Cobalt and hefted onto the carriage. A series of confused questions revealed that the rest wanted to head back before it started getting dark, and it was pretty obvious who was the most exhausted of them. Lacking the will or energy to argue it, he flopped back on the Atmo as the trees passed them by, Nalah resting her legs across him as her head sat on Jax’s lap. The black-furred male didn’t so much as smirk, so it was clear he had pushed himself too far to quip about the arrangement as he laid down.
“The next time you wish to exhaust me this much, Joseph,” the Head of Security started after a long while of silence, tiredness in his voice, “I would prefer it to involve my mate and a bed.”
The Human snorted, closing his eyes and enjoying the lack of walking as the surprisingly stable Atmo carried the three of them. “Fuck off, Jax.”
“Of course, Grand Hunter.”
Next
A/N: Patreon is fixed!... aka new one cuz problems with the last. Check it out to support the story, get AI character art every now and then, or even preview sections of chapters as i write them! (aka, before kieve gets to fix them :D)
2023.06.08 07:24 TheCurserHasntMoved (Sneakyverse) The Drums of War Chapter 11: Second Star
First Previous Next
The cavern shook, and some pebbles broke off of the roof. Jax didn't worry to much over it, since Kai and Mei had said that the cave could stand up to a decent sized bomb. It was probably the drop pods landing. He'd never been able to be as nonchalant as the Terrans seemed to be about it, but at least he never refused a drop. Not for the first time, he bitterly wished he had his armor. Sure, most guys don't buy their service armor, but he could have afforded it. He just could conceive he'd ever need it in his life after service. More fool him.
Rae came up behind him and put a hand on his shoulder, but when he went to shrug it away, she squeezed it tighter. "What's the matter? Who needs help?"
"You do."
"I'm fine."
"You're not. Jax, you're… Jax I…"
"I said I'm fine!" he snapped as he jerked his shoulder away, but when she made a sound of shock and pain, his head snapped around, and he looked in terror for the injury he had caused her. He saw only the anguish on her face. "I'm sorry. I'm okay. I'll be okay, please don't worry."
"Ash talks about it."
"Ash won't talk about anything."
"He used to be a thief." That surprised Jax so much that he couldn't make a sound from his slack jawed maw, so she continued, "Not for a while, but he's not proud of his past. He had turned his life around, got hired in construction. Got married, and she was pregnant. Full six litter."
"Was…"
"Yes, she was. She died when the hospital got hit."
"Why are you telling me this?" Jax asked as he fought the swell of pity before it could show on his face.
"Because Ash is worried about you too."
"Ash?"
"He's more observant. There's a reason you send him to scout."
"Too?"
"Yes, Jax. He's worried too. Him and me. Kai is to worried about making sure he knows how everyone will evacuate if they need to. Mei just wants to kill another bloodskin. But Ash and I can see it."
Jax slapped the stone with his tail and griped his rifle hard. He unclenched his jaw and said, "I shouldn't have let so many buy us time on the first day. I should have brought more down here. I could have-"
"How? Knock them out and drag them all down here under fire?"
"I don't know! I should have- somehow. I'm a veteran, I served with the Terrans in antipiracy patrols and saw three combat drops. I should be able to do more."
"You want to be up there."
"Yes! But even without my armor, I'd be a liabilty," he spat.
"You just said you've fought with the Terrans before," she prodded.
"You don't understand. Those aren't just Terrans, those are RNI Drop Troopers, Lost Boys Rapid Response Division. The training the Republic put me through for regular grunt standards makes our military training look like a pup's park. The Lost Boys make the RNI Drop Troopers look like pups playing in their father's fishing box. These are the guys who read My Side and instead of feeling sorry for Sneaky, felt that he did the necessary thing and wanted to be that brave. If all of us were trained, and all of us had armor, we could support, but it's not. If any of us went up there, best case we only get ourselves hurt. Worst case we get one of them killed to protect us, because they will. They won't even think about it. Just one, one Lost Boy, made all the difference back there. Do you think we'd have gotten in without him covering us from that bird's perch of his? I know you'd be hurt at least. I have fifty-one reasons to thank him."
"Oh…" she muttered. "Look at everyone still alive. Still free. The pups told me why they were beaten."
"Why's that?" Jax asked as a stone formed in his belly.
"Their parents disobeyed."
It took Jax a full ten seconds to pull back the snarl of pure hatful rage off of his face to be replaced with a milder expression of fury, "Genocidal, and slavers. Thank the Ancestors for the Lost Boys."
"Thank the Ancestors for you, Jax. For you and the men like you in the other towns, out in the hills, in the atolls. We'd have never held out this long."
"I'm fine. I'll be okay, you don't have to worry," Jax said with a transparent smile over his face.
"Acolyte-Lord, their shields do show signs of stress."
"Acolyte-Lord," another Initiate-Highborn began, "Our batteries do overheat, we must cease firing for cooling!"
"Make it so, launch missiles to keep the pressure up."
"I obey, Acolyte-Lord!"
"Cruiser five, move up and open fire upon that battleship," Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn commanded over the communications network.
He watched as a single battleship suppressed the whole of his fleet, and the other three sped toward the planet. "All frigates, focus fire on that battleship!" he commanded, seizing the opportunity. The missiles crept toward the Terran battleship as the frigates maneuvered to bring their plasma lances to bear on the massive vessel. For all that, Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn was denied the sight of the Terran shields finally buckling. "Acolyte-lord, if they can sustain that fire for another five seconds, our lances can be brought to bear, and finally overwhelm the Terran shields," an Initiate-Highborn announced.
"How fare the extraction ships?"
"Acolyte-Lord, they need only another thirty seconds to make minimum jump distance."
"Frigates, do not lessen your fire, we shall make them pay a price in blood for this system!" Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn roared. Proximity alarms suddenly sounded, "What comes?"
"Acolyte-Lord, brace for impact! Our shields do fail!"
"Slingshot trajectory," he cursed.
One of the frigates broke apart under the Terran battleship's terrible power, and Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn's lances came online. The gunnery officer did not wait for the order to fire, and the Terran shields finally failed, and hot plasma splashed across its hull. Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn let a cruel grin spread across his face in anticipation of seeing the Terran vessel scorched into so much twisted and useless metal, but instead two of his cruisers and yet another frigate broke apart. "KEEP FIRING!"
"Acolyte-Lord," said his security officer, "We have been boarded!"
"HOW?! THEIR SHIP IS NOWHERE NEAR US!"
Linus let the pain well up in him. He let the tears run down his cheeks, and he let it turn to cold fury before he hit the ground. His armored pod's grav bubble and inertial transferal systems had insulated him from the kinetic force of the impact. Not so much the armored vehicle he had been steering for. The charges placed at the seams of his pod hatch went off, sending said hatch through the surviving driver. He keyed his mic and said, "Alpha blue leader, boots down, team check in."
"Blue one, boots down, checking in," said Private First Class Andrew Lewis.
"Blue two, boots down, checking in," said Private First Class Joshua Clark.
"Blue three, boots down, checking in," said Private First Class Benjamin carter.
"Alpha Blue, all present and accounted for, Sarge."
"Good news, Corporal. Not that they had much that could have picked one of us out on the way," came Sergeant Thomas Mitchell's growl over the tacnet. Our area of operation is civvy clear, say again our area of operation is civvy clear."
"Requesting permission to switch to heavy ordo, sarge."
"Request logged. Sir, a fire team is requesting heavy ordo."
Lieutenant Mark Thomson answered in his dulcet tones not dissimilar to being raked over broken glass, "Granted. Heavy ordo clear for all teams operating in confirmed civilian clear zones. Keep your eyes peeled for stays though, got it?"
"Aye, sir," answered the entire chain of command.
"Nobody go hunting medals, we're out to get these cultists to get less eager to die," the gunny barked over the tacnet.
Linus was already swapping out his standard ammunition block for light armor penetrating explosive rounds. "Aye, gunny. No medals." In Linus's peripheral vision, a bird's eye view of his area of operation showed an infantry squad and a tank approaching him, a platoon of infantry approaching PFC Clark, and what looked like a group of armored troop carriers approaching PFC Lewis. "Blue three, find yourself a perch and provide support for Blue Two. Blue One, see that?"
"Aye, Blue Leader. I won't see it in a minute."
Linus opened up on the tank, putting three rounds directly through the joint between the turret and the deck, and half a second later they exploded, leaving a twisted hole through which Linus could put more explosive rounds, just in case the tankers didn't die from the shrapnel of the original explosions. "Time to go to work, Lost Boys. We remember the We Sing."
"Aye sir!"
"Don't sir me, I'm a corporal," Linus's team laughed at him. Linus still couldn't find his humor. Hot plasma bolts splashed against his battlescreen, and he started eliminating soft targets.
First Previous Next
submitted by TheCurserHasntMoved to HFY [link] [comments]
Below Numiind:
Jax looked over the tattered, gaunt, haunted group of about two thousand civilians as they huddled together in the damp cavern below the ground. A generation was missing among them. The elderly and even the aged held and cradled the pups and the infants. There were fifty new pups in the press, fifty pups who… fifty pups who had plastic tags through their ears like wildlife, and some had thick welts raised beneath their fur. Jax tried not to think about that too much. If he thought about that too much, he might just go topside and get in the RNI's way.The cavern shook, and some pebbles broke off of the roof. Jax didn't worry to much over it, since Kai and Mei had said that the cave could stand up to a decent sized bomb. It was probably the drop pods landing. He'd never been able to be as nonchalant as the Terrans seemed to be about it, but at least he never refused a drop. Not for the first time, he bitterly wished he had his armor. Sure, most guys don't buy their service armor, but he could have afforded it. He just could conceive he'd ever need it in his life after service. More fool him.
Rae came up behind him and put a hand on his shoulder, but when he went to shrug it away, she squeezed it tighter. "What's the matter? Who needs help?"
"You do."
"I'm fine."
"You're not. Jax, you're… Jax I…"
"I said I'm fine!" he snapped as he jerked his shoulder away, but when she made a sound of shock and pain, his head snapped around, and he looked in terror for the injury he had caused her. He saw only the anguish on her face. "I'm sorry. I'm okay. I'll be okay, please don't worry."
"Ash talks about it."
"Ash won't talk about anything."
"He used to be a thief." That surprised Jax so much that he couldn't make a sound from his slack jawed maw, so she continued, "Not for a while, but he's not proud of his past. He had turned his life around, got hired in construction. Got married, and she was pregnant. Full six litter."
"Was…"
"Yes, she was. She died when the hospital got hit."
"Why are you telling me this?" Jax asked as he fought the swell of pity before it could show on his face.
"Because Ash is worried about you too."
"Ash?"
"He's more observant. There's a reason you send him to scout."
"Too?"
"Yes, Jax. He's worried too. Him and me. Kai is to worried about making sure he knows how everyone will evacuate if they need to. Mei just wants to kill another bloodskin. But Ash and I can see it."
Jax slapped the stone with his tail and griped his rifle hard. He unclenched his jaw and said, "I shouldn't have let so many buy us time on the first day. I should have brought more down here. I could have-"
"How? Knock them out and drag them all down here under fire?"
"I don't know! I should have- somehow. I'm a veteran, I served with the Terrans in antipiracy patrols and saw three combat drops. I should be able to do more."
"You want to be up there."
"Yes! But even without my armor, I'd be a liabilty," he spat.
"You just said you've fought with the Terrans before," she prodded.
"You don't understand. Those aren't just Terrans, those are RNI Drop Troopers, Lost Boys Rapid Response Division. The training the Republic put me through for regular grunt standards makes our military training look like a pup's park. The Lost Boys make the RNI Drop Troopers look like pups playing in their father's fishing box. These are the guys who read My Side and instead of feeling sorry for Sneaky, felt that he did the necessary thing and wanted to be that brave. If all of us were trained, and all of us had armor, we could support, but it's not. If any of us went up there, best case we only get ourselves hurt. Worst case we get one of them killed to protect us, because they will. They won't even think about it. Just one, one Lost Boy, made all the difference back there. Do you think we'd have gotten in without him covering us from that bird's perch of his? I know you'd be hurt at least. I have fifty-one reasons to thank him."
"Oh…" she muttered. "Look at everyone still alive. Still free. The pups told me why they were beaten."
"Why's that?" Jax asked as a stone formed in his belly.
"Their parents disobeyed."
It took Jax a full ten seconds to pull back the snarl of pure hatful rage off of his face to be replaced with a milder expression of fury, "Genocidal, and slavers. Thank the Ancestors for the Lost Boys."
"Thank the Ancestors for you, Jax. For you and the men like you in the other towns, out in the hills, in the atolls. We'd have never held out this long."
"I'm fine. I'll be okay, you don't have to worry," Jax said with a transparent smile over his face.
In High orbit above Numiid:
Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn gritted his teeth. He could hardly believe that four ships, mighty battleships though they may be, could have put him on such shifting sands. His own battleship was currently bombarding the nearest of the four Terran battleships with all of its plasma batteries."Acolyte-Lord, their shields do show signs of stress."
"Acolyte-Lord," another Initiate-Highborn began, "Our batteries do overheat, we must cease firing for cooling!"
"Make it so, launch missiles to keep the pressure up."
"I obey, Acolyte-Lord!"
"Cruiser five, move up and open fire upon that battleship," Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn commanded over the communications network.
He watched as a single battleship suppressed the whole of his fleet, and the other three sped toward the planet. "All frigates, focus fire on that battleship!" he commanded, seizing the opportunity. The missiles crept toward the Terran battleship as the frigates maneuvered to bring their plasma lances to bear on the massive vessel. For all that, Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn was denied the sight of the Terran shields finally buckling. "Acolyte-lord, if they can sustain that fire for another five seconds, our lances can be brought to bear, and finally overwhelm the Terran shields," an Initiate-Highborn announced.
"How fare the extraction ships?"
"Acolyte-Lord, they need only another thirty seconds to make minimum jump distance."
"Frigates, do not lessen your fire, we shall make them pay a price in blood for this system!" Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn roared. Proximity alarms suddenly sounded, "What comes?"
"Acolyte-Lord, brace for impact! Our shields do fail!"
"Slingshot trajectory," he cursed.
One of the frigates broke apart under the Terran battleship's terrible power, and Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn's lances came online. The gunnery officer did not wait for the order to fire, and the Terran shields finally failed, and hot plasma splashed across its hull. Acolyte-Lord Narrex-Quinn let a cruel grin spread across his face in anticipation of seeing the Terran vessel scorched into so much twisted and useless metal, but instead two of his cruisers and yet another frigate broke apart. "KEEP FIRING!"
"Acolyte-Lord," said his security officer, "We have been boarded!"
"HOW?! THEIR SHIP IS NOWHERE NEAR US!"
Above the ruins of a mining town:
Corporal Linus George hurtled toward the ground in his drop pod watching the last video communication that his brother had sent him. "So anyway, I don't know if we'll have coms capability once we're in Clans space, since something's fucked out there," Robbie was saying, "So you might not be able to get ahold of me for a spell. Don't worry, the We Sing is a good ship. She'll get us home. Huh? Sorry Linus, just because I'm an officer doesn't mean I get to hog up the phone. Keep the faith, see you when I see you."Linus let the pain well up in him. He let the tears run down his cheeks, and he let it turn to cold fury before he hit the ground. His armored pod's grav bubble and inertial transferal systems had insulated him from the kinetic force of the impact. Not so much the armored vehicle he had been steering for. The charges placed at the seams of his pod hatch went off, sending said hatch through the surviving driver. He keyed his mic and said, "Alpha blue leader, boots down, team check in."
"Blue one, boots down, checking in," said Private First Class Andrew Lewis.
"Blue two, boots down, checking in," said Private First Class Joshua Clark.
"Blue three, boots down, checking in," said Private First Class Benjamin carter.
"Alpha Blue, all present and accounted for, Sarge."
"Good news, Corporal. Not that they had much that could have picked one of us out on the way," came Sergeant Thomas Mitchell's growl over the tacnet. Our area of operation is civvy clear, say again our area of operation is civvy clear."
"Requesting permission to switch to heavy ordo, sarge."
"Request logged. Sir, a fire team is requesting heavy ordo."
Lieutenant Mark Thomson answered in his dulcet tones not dissimilar to being raked over broken glass, "Granted. Heavy ordo clear for all teams operating in confirmed civilian clear zones. Keep your eyes peeled for stays though, got it?"
"Aye, sir," answered the entire chain of command.
"Nobody go hunting medals, we're out to get these cultists to get less eager to die," the gunny barked over the tacnet.
Linus was already swapping out his standard ammunition block for light armor penetrating explosive rounds. "Aye, gunny. No medals." In Linus's peripheral vision, a bird's eye view of his area of operation showed an infantry squad and a tank approaching him, a platoon of infantry approaching PFC Clark, and what looked like a group of armored troop carriers approaching PFC Lewis. "Blue three, find yourself a perch and provide support for Blue Two. Blue One, see that?"
"Aye, Blue Leader. I won't see it in a minute."
Linus opened up on the tank, putting three rounds directly through the joint between the turret and the deck, and half a second later they exploded, leaving a twisted hole through which Linus could put more explosive rounds, just in case the tankers didn't die from the shrapnel of the original explosions. "Time to go to work, Lost Boys. We remember the We Sing."
"Aye sir!"
"Don't sir me, I'm a corporal," Linus's team laughed at him. Linus still couldn't find his humor. Hot plasma bolts splashed against his battlescreen, and he started eliminating soft targets.
First Previous Next
2023.06.08 06:53 hideouszondarg Hubris, Boston, and Everything After
Race Information
- Name: Boston Marathon
- Distance: 26.2 miles
- Time: 2:40:XX
Goals
| Goal | Description | Completed? |
|---|---|---|
| A | Under 2:42 (PR) | Yes |
| B | Under 2:45 | Yes |
| C | Finish strong | Yes |
Prologue
I started running during the pandemic, transitioning away from my long-time sport of Ultimate Frisbee to try to run a sub-5 mile (report here). I did it, and it was good. And I had caught the running bug. Ready to extend my distances, I declared to my coach that my next goal (after a short hiatus to play one more season of frisbee) was to qualify for Boston. Boston was, in fact, the only marathon I had ever spectated: I remember sitting at Coolidge Corner in 2009, watching runners speed by. I was young and springy then, and had no desire to run farther than 3 miles continuously. But now it was 2021, and time had run out on my fast-twitch abilities: it was time to go long. I wanted to run Boston, which meant I had to run something else - and hopefully just one “something else” - first.We decided to target Eugene for 2022, to qualify for Boston in 2023. I began building up my base in the fall, testing my weekly mileage limits. I remember a “long run” of 70 minutes the first Sunday after I returned to regular running. I nearly gave up and walked 60 minutes in. But the next Sunday I did 80 minutes, and it was better. By the end of the fall, I was comfortably hitting 50 mpw and 2 hour runs. By the time Eugene came around, I had sixteen weeks of generally healthy training and six 20+ mile runs in my legs. felt ready, and I was: I ran a 2:42. I was a freshly minted 36 at the time, so with the BQ time for my age group and gender at 3:05, I was firmly in the clear.
I'll pause here to say that although I am far from an elite runner, I am also keenly aware that many people work their asses off for years to qualify for Boston, and that some never do. I worked hard, too, and my history of sports can’t have hurt, but at the end of the day I know I have some (unearned) talent for running that made my path to Hopkinton easier than it is for many. I will leave it here in saying that I have immense respect for everyone who laces up and puts in the work, regardless of their pace and outcome.
The Build
After Eugene, I had turned my attention away from the roads for about six months. I put the bank of fitness I had developed to work on trails and on mountains. I got to cover (and bonk on) a few of the many thrilling backcountry objectives in British Columbia, and even ran a 50k in Washington. (It went about as well as most people’s first 50k, which is to say that I ran out of food, water, fully supermanned down a trail, cramped every muscle in my lower body, and shuffled it in. Huge success.) But when December came around, it was time to get back to the roads.Working with the same coach, my road fitness came back surprisingly quickly. I was hitting high-water marks for volume, pushing my average up to the high 60s/low 70s. I felt, well, not good, but I did feel fast. I remember hammering out a 30 minute tempo on the track at 5:41/mi, a workout I never would have been capable of during the Eugene build. I was tired after, but confident and elated. I got compliments from the youngsters rolling 600 repeats around the track, and their coach. I felt like I was on track for a new PR, and not just a PR but a crushingly fast time, maybe somewhere in the mid 2:30s. But somewhere, offscreen, ominous music played. I had my wings on, and I was headed towards the sun.
The sun took the form of a work trip to Bozeman. I flew over Thursday, found a gym to do a tough 60 minute “mountain fitness” workout that evening, ran for an hour Friday morning in the snow, and skate skied 2.5 hours hard on Saturday. Sunday morning, I took on a treadmill workout that was something like 7x(7 min @ 5:41/mi, 2 min off). After two intervals, I knew I didn’t have it. I stepped off the treadmill. I’ve failed workouts in the past, and I’ve been able to move on, but for some reason this one stuck. It stuck, as they say in the South in my craw. Annoyed, I went back to my hotel room and tried to regroup. With my muscles already starting to tighten up with the effort, I resolved to partially salvage the day with an easy run around town. But it didn’t feel like I had salvaged anything. So, after an 8-hour, two hopper flight home, I made another attempt to soothe my bruised ego. With night falling, I hit the pavement, starting out easy but picking up speed. Tired, tight, and without any food or water, I hammered away, deep in the no-man’s land of Zone 3. I had heard the warnings. I paid no heed. I was invincible, and I was going to reclaim the fitness I had missed out on that morning. I ran the distance of a half marathon and got home after dark, and you know what? It felt good, at the time. It felt
The Injury
The next morning, I woke up in a pile of melted wings. My left leg couldn’t take any weight without shooting pain and was tender to the touch around my mid-shin. I felt the dubious benefit of immediate and regretful clarity on what had gone wrong. My ego had let me believe that I could or should try nail a workout on a foreign treadmill at altitude (Bozeman!) after an exhausting couple of days. Failing that, it had convinced me that I should make up the workout with a long, unfueled run. Ego is a hell of drug.It took several days for me to accept that I was injured. Looking back on my training log, it seems insane, but I ran the next few days on my program, including a track workout. My leg would throb and ache, but I would get through it, only to wake up in more pain that would abate just enough for me to try it out again that afternoon. Eventually, I fessed up to my coach and she immediately sent me to a PT and had me stop running for a week. I thought this was excessive at the time, but in retrospect I think it might have saved the build. The PT I saw said I had a stress reaction, probably brought on by a combination of weak glutes (it’s always the glutes) changing my push off and some good old-fashioned overdoing it.
For the next month, I cross trained with uphill biking, skate skiing, and water jogging. We re-introduced running gradually, starting with once every three days, then every other day, then two out of three days. The shin seemed to get better slowly, and we gradually reached a kind of homeostasis: I knew how far I could push it, and as long as I didn’t overdo it, it seemed to recover slightly faster every time. But the injury had come at a bad time, and missing most of February meant that I couldn’t race the local half marathon I had planned on or a local trail race (though I still participated in them as long runs).
By mid-March, I was feeling mostly better. In addition to Boston, I had also signed up for Chuckanut 50k, a trail ultra renowned for its smooth runnable trails and its timing: it often drew some of the elites of US trail running as an early season opener. I didn’t feel quite ready to hammer the downhills, but if anything, limiting myself kept my quads intact almost through the end of the race. I didn’t tear the roof off, but I ran most of the way and felt pretty good doing it. When I woke up the next day with the usual soreness, but no acute pain in my shin, I knew I was going to finish the build and run an honest race at Boston.
The only problem was that a week’s recovery brought me to March 24: only about three weeks before Boston. With a weeklong taper, shorter than usual by necessity, we really only had two weeks to get into Boston shape. My coach put on a masterclass in programming: she designed workouts that required exactly as much as I could give at the time, while preparing me for the unique qualities of the Boston experience and course. One in particular stands out: 4x(15 min MP effort, 8 min T effort, 4 min jog), but on a route that included a 300-foot hill, which I ended up going up and down 3 times. The key was to maintain effort going uphill, but to not go any faster than 6:10/mile downhill. That and another long run gave me two 20+ milers in the books. That was it.
Going into Boston, I knew I didn’t have the sharpness I had even three months ago. I had started the cycle hoping to PR, maybe by a lot, but before the marathon I set more conservative goals: my C goal was to get to 20 miles (where my mom would be) feeling strong; my B goal was to get under 2:45. My A goal was to PR. I wasn’t feeling brave: I wanted to minimize the possibility of blowing up, while still giving myself a fighting chance at a one-second PR if I was having a really good day.
The Marathon
There’s not much to say about Boston (the marathon) that readers here haven’t read before. The logistics are impeccable, but overwhelming for a first-timer, the fanfare and the fans are legendary, and the course is the running world’s version of the Strait of Messina: athletes must navigate Scylla’s ego-tempting downhills and Charybdis’ ill-timed uphills to survive. While it is literally impossible to make it to the Boston marathon start line without having at least one hundred people tell you to not hammer the downhill at the start, people still do it every single year.In a way, I was lucky have reckoned with (and lost to) my ego early in the build. I came to Boston healthy but wary of too much self-belief. We set a target and hard limit on the pace I would set through the first 15k: 6:15s would be ideal, but at most 6:10s: I wouldn’t run faster than I had down my training hill. At the start line, a small inspiration struck. Boston sets bib numbers by qualifying time, and my 2:42 at Eugene gave me something in the 1100s. Within my corral, I found the people around my number and then walked about 30 meters back, placing myself closer to folks wearing 1500s. I reasoned that if most people overcooked the start, then I wanted to be with the folks overcooking it at a pace I could be comfortable with.
Once the race started, it was virtually impossible, for the first couple miles or so, to shift my pace much above or below what the people around me wanted to run. If thought at first that I had let myself sit too far back: I ran a 6:35 first mile down the two-lane streets of Hopkinton. But as the crowds thinned a bit, I found a rhythm, and clicked off my first 5k at around 19:14, around a 6:12/mile pace. The next 5k, still downhill but slightly less, was a 19:12. The third was 19:13. Rolling through the small towns that make up the western side of the Boston metro area, I didn’t feel good, exactly, but I also didn’t feel bad. I wasn’t sure what kind of day I was having. That’s the odd thing about the marathon, so far as I can tell: you might know you’re having a bad day early on, but deciding that you’re having a good day is inviting disaster.
A quick aside: it can’t be overstated how impressive the Boston crowds are. There was no point on the course that I can remember where we were without support for more than 25 meters. Wellesley and Boston University are extreme even in that context, though: you actually feel the roar at those points in the course before you hear or see it. Bless you, you drunk and joyful undergraduates.
By 25k, we were through half and quickly approaching the Newton Hills. After a long downhill, we turned at the fire station and started to charge up. I shortened my stride and began to pump my arms, lifting my effort from a 6 to a 7 but no higher. I didn’t look at my watch until the end of the first hill, so you can imagine my shock when I saw that the last mile had been a 6:06. I cruised the lengthy downhill after the first hill (nobody really tells you about those) and regained my composure. The second hill was punchier, and brought me down to a 6:10, but I still felt good, and was starting to pass quite a few people. The third hill was mostly forgettable, which left only Heartbreak. While not objectively a big hill, it’s big enough for that point in a marathon, and you definitely see it coming. I was determined to hold my early race pace through it, though, and pushed the effort up again. I was breathing hard, but I got to the top still holding a 6:11 pace.
Even at the top of Heartbreak, I wasn’t fully ready to believe that this was going to be a really good day. I’m told that much better runners have lost entire races in the so-called “haunted” mile following Heartbreak, and I wasn’t sure what my quads had left in the tank. But while it still didn’t feel good, I kept pouring in gas and they kept responding. The last few miles of the race are a bit of a blur: I remember pushing the pace down to 6:06, then 6:00, then even below 6:00 for a mile or so. There are a couple very short and punchy climbs just before the last turns that took something out of me, but by the time I turned left on Boylston I knew I had more than the balance left over. I started sprinting at the turn, only to realize that the 600 meter long stretch was a bit more than I had bargained for. Still, I closed respectably: I ran last mile was a 5:41, exactly what I had worked on maintaining in that early tempo workout.
I finished in 2:40:XX and negative split by about 2 minutes. It poured like crazy 15 minutes after, while I huddled under a restaurant awning. I watched other runners come in. Some, like me, had the elation of a good day to soothe their tired muscles and joints. Some had no such balm, and were left to untangle the end of a long, challenging cycle from a disappointing final result. I was reminded, too, that it’s all relative: as I sat under the awning, I heard a runner near me lament his 2:35, while another came in over the moon with his 3:15. Kipchoge had a bad day, and he finished more than half an hour before I did. We are comparison machines, and expectations versus reality is the oldest routine we know.
Epilogue
The marathon is a harsh race, and I feel genuinely lucky to have had good experiences on my attempts so far. Two months on though, my body still feels beat up: I’m struggling to recover, my knees ache, and my workouts seem to be going the wrong direction. I don’t think I gave my recovery the respect it deserved, so I am once again tangling with my own hubris.Assuming I can rest enough to properly recover, I also find myself in the position of figuring out what’s next. Boston was a big goal for me, and I didn’t set any real running objectives after it. All I have on my schedule this summer is a couple of local trail and road races. I thought Boston would be my last marathon before I moved entirely to the more forgiving pastures of trail running, but I’m also tempted to see how far I can push the needle on my road running before age claws my aerobic fitness back from me. I’m 37 now, and well aware that at some point the PRs will no longer be on the table, but I think that day is still a few years off. If you were me, what would you aim for next?
2023.06.08 06:23 whirlpool4 Events for Fri 6/9 - Sun 6/11
** Fri 6/9 *\*
Fri 4 - 7:30 PM Food Truck Friday Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce, 4201 Crestview Dr. SE, Rio Rancho We welcome attendees of all ages to gather together and enjoy great food and music
Fri 5 - 7 PM Exhibit Opening: Colors That Speak Words Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th St. NW Join us in celebration of the visual arts, poetry, and calligraphy. "Colors That Speak Words" is a collaborative installation between two writers and two visual artists with words, poetry, and visual arts and speaks to how this combination of mediums can be done in a cyclical way. The artists, Dr. Anthony Fleg, Mallery Quetawki (Zuni), Blythe Mariano (Diné), and Chilán Mustain, worked together to create an installation in motion, and the vision they bring to this space is from a contemporary perspective on how Native art is presented. This is an innovative view for visitors to see that Native art is changing and adjusting to the times. The artists will be present at the exhibit opening to read poetry and talk about this installation. Admission is free; please enter through South Entrance. Light refreshments will be served. This exhibit will be on display through October 15
Fri 5 - 10 PM Car Show & Concert! EXPO NM Home of the New Mexico State Fair, 300 San Pedro Dr. NE Friday night fever Vol 2! CAR SHOW & AWARDs, RAP CONCERT, VENDORS, FOOD TRUCKS, GAMES, ROCK CLIMBING WALL. All Makes and Models welcome. FREE GENERAL ADMISSION. $7 Parking, $10 Car Show judging and awards (only if you want to register and compete) Event brought to you by Expo NM and Desert Sun Event Productions. Car show brought to you by Sins events and NM Lowrider Arte
Fri 6 PM Rugby is a Drag (Show)! Sidewinders Bar and Grill, 4200 Central Ave SE Get out your dancing cleats and trade in that eye black for eye liner! The very popular Rugby is a Drag (show!) and fundraiser, normally held earlier in the year, has moved to June 9th and Pride weekend in 2023! This year's event will be hosted by Miss Sidewinders 2023 Seliah Deleon and Le Femme Magnifique 2017 and fellow rugger SCRUMtious Cox! This year's show is returning to Sidewinders and, as in year's past, will benefit our friends at Casa Q, which provides safe living for LGBTQ+ youth through housing, services and advocacy. This year's event will also feature participation from members of Elevated Roller Derby, NM United and more! (tickets)
Fri 7 PM Movies in the Park - Puss in Boots: The Last Wish Athena Park, 778 Athena Ave, Bernalillo MOVIES IN THE PARK is back this SUMMER! We will feature a different movie at our local parks every FRIDAY night in June. Movies will begin at sundown and we will serve popcorn for free! Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and beverages. All movies are FREE! In the case of inclement weather, movies will be cancelled
Fri 8 PM - 12 AM Pride Dance Party 505 Spirits, 105 Harvard Dr. SE DANCE WITH US TO CELEBRATE PRIDE UNDER THE STARS @ PRIDE ON THE PATIO! DJ Baby D & DJ Rebel (Rori the Rebel) will drop your favorite hits - Get your dance on and show of your Pride with your best Pride outfit &/or Pride colors! Try our special cocktail: Prickly Pear Pride Punch, plus other great drinks and delicious food! Come early for dinner before you dance, daNCE, DANCE!!! Delicious Value Menu Items: $2.95 - NEW Sliders! (beef & veg) $1.95 - local blue corn dog pops (minis) $5.95 waffle fries & full sized blue corn dogs (veg or beef) Plus our flaky meat & veg hand pies, chunky chicken salad, mushroom pate & more! 21 & over Free Entry!
Fri 9 PM Albuquerque Pride Afterparty Historic Lobo Theater, 3013 Central Ave NE Starring Headliner: Malaysia Babydoll Foxx, DJ: Justin Cristofer, HOST: Vanessa Patricks, MEET THE QUEENS! Avery Martini, Imani Martini, Nova Martini, Kardio Karbdashian, Divyne Intervention. Private Early Entrance Meet N Greet begins at 8:15 p.m. entrance with Meet N Greet starting 8:30 p.m. Champagne Provided (tickets)
Fri 9 PM Fierce Pride: Kandy Muse Effex, 420 Central Ave SW Special guest from RPDR All Stars S13 and AS8, LA, CA, Meet and Greet 10:30 PM, doors 9p, show 11:30p Lounge: DJ Chris de Jesus Patio: DJ Aquattro Side Effex: DJ Mitch
Fri 9:30 PM Salsa under the Stars After Party JUNO, 1501 1st St. NW DJ Pedro, one of Albuquerque’s most loved DJ’s (DJ Pedro, DJ Tony, SoloVino, DJ Louie, DJ Darly + Eli Mix) mixing your favorite dance mix of Salsa, Bachata, Merengue and more! This is one of Albuquerque’s favorite after party summer outdoor events and will begin June 9th following the opening of Son Como Son kicking off the Salsa under the Stars at the Albuquerque Museum followed by the after party at Juno. Free entry to Juno with your stamp from the museum
Fri 10:30 PM Twilight Zone: The Movie - 40th Anniversary Screening! One Night Only! The Guild Cinema, 3405 Central Ave NE Check out the trailer. Dir. Joe Dante, Steven Spielberg, John Landis & George Miller - 1983 - 102m - NO MATINEES. DOOR PRIZES COURTESY OF BUBONICON 54! Based on the popular television series, this film is a collection of four frightening tales of the supernatural, each by a different director--Joe Dante, Steven Spielberg, John Landis, and George Miller! The film opens with Dan Aykroyd and Albert Brooks as two hapless road-trippers who tell scary stories to pass the time. The four segments that follow include some updated re-creations of classic Twilight Zone episodes. In the first, racist Bill Connor (Vic Morrow) is transformed into a Jew in World War II. Next, Mr. Bloom (Scatman Crothers) comes to a retirement home to teach the residents that they are only as young as they feel. In the third, teacher Helen Foley (Kathleen Quinlan) meets Antony (Jeremy Licht), a boy who is not what he seems. In the final segment, panicky plane passenger John Valentine (John Lithgow) sees gremlins attacking his flight
** Sat 6/10 *\*
Sat 8 AM - 2 PM NMHRS Garage Sale 7903 Robin Ave NE Hosted by the New Mexico House Rabbit Society. All sales go into our vet fund so that we can continue to provide medical care to rabbits in need. This is a multi-family garage sale so there will be lots to browse through
Sat 8 AM - 10 PM All The Things: Craft Cocktail & Mixer Launch Tractor Brewing Company, 118 Tulane Dr. SE The next evolution in the craft cocktail experience is here and officially launch in Nob Hill for Pride! What is All The Things? Well, let me tell you. Imagine 100% fresh cold pressed juice, pure cane sugar, and Troubled Minds spirits all in one 1L bottle ready to pour over ice! That's right you can purchase these ready made bottle cocktails now at ANY of our locations! We have: Margarita with Tequila, Paloma with Tequila, Kentucky Mule with Bourbon, Ginger Lemonade with Vodka, Limeade with Vodka & Bloody Mary with Vodka! Grab you one to go for $16! We will be using mixers of these behind our bars so you can get a first hand taste! And offering non alcoholic lavender, ginger, and classic lemonades for you to sip on! These truly are All The Things in one bottle!
Sat 9 AM - 12 PM Family, Fit, Fun Fest Tiguex Park, 1800 Mountain Rd. NW Join us for the Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails 2nd annual Family, Fit, Fun Fest. Bring your whole family to this free, all-ages event to learn about keeping fit and healthy - mentally, physically, and emotionally. Learn new skills and discover ways to keep your mind and body healthy and active, as you visit interactive booths led by community partners. Booths will include hands-on activities like games, puzzles, and brain teasers, as well as interactive lessons in martial arts, dance, mindfulness, and more. Booths will also include information on youth classes, clubs, and teams, as well as opportunities to meet local healthcare providers and learn more about mental health, nutrition, eye care, and dental care for your whole family. Climb to the top of a rock wall, make your way through an obstacle course, try the football toss or the baseball toss, shoot a hockey puck, or score a goal at interactive stations around the event! Meet and take photos with local sports teams and/or mascots and stop by Menchie's Froyo Mobile for a sweet treat. Girl Scout Members can participate in a special event scavenger hunt when they pre-purchase the 2023 GSNMT Family, Fit, Fun Fest patch
Sat 10 AM SOCH PRIDE '23 Albuquerque Social Club, 4021 Central Ave NE Come show your PRIDE at the ONLY place to be SOCHial! We are taking over the parking lot for a FREE ALL AGES event. We have multile bands, musicians and perfromers ready to give a PRIDE you wont forget. Food Truck, Vendors, Face Painting, Car Show, Games, Country Dancing and many other fun events!
Sat 10 - 11 AM Yoga with Kelsi Poulin Marketplace mezzanine, 8600 Pan American Fwy NE Enjoy guided yoga, from local yoga instructor, Kelsi! This will be a fun flow for all levels of yoga practice. $10 per person
Sat 10 AM - 12 PM Play Day For A Cause Kiddie Academy of Paradise Hills, 4590 Paradise Blvd. NW Join us for Play Day for a Cause! This free event has great games and fun activities for your kids while supporting Family Promise, the leading national nonprofit addressing family homelessness. Family Promise started in 1986 as local outreach in a single community and now has more than 200 Affiliates in 43 states. Since their founding, volunteers have helped more than a million family members in need. With a focus on empowering families and children, Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care and Family Promise are working together to give every child what they deserve: a chance to succeed. The event is free and open to the public. Donations are appreciated, but not required to attend
Sat 10 AM - 4 PM Foundational Wellness Grand Opening Party Los Ranchos Bakery, 6920 4th St. NW, Los Ranchos Celebrate our grand opening event by stopping by the B Side of Los Ranchos Bakery! Herbal tea blends, door prizes, free raffle, information on classes and events, and more! Win a free reiki session, teas, discounts on classes, or discounts on nutritional therapy! I will be teaching numerous classes at the bakery this summer. Some topics: How to make Herbal Vinegar Tinctures (aceta), Hormone Health, Healthy Habits for Life, Improve Your Digestion, Prioritizing Meal Prep, Blood Sugar Regulation, and my RESTART Program! You don’t want to miss out! Some of these classes will be free! So come on down and get some coffee and goodies from the bakery, then visit me next door and see what we’ve been up to
Sat 10 AM - 5 PM Pride Day Celebration! Quirky Used Books and More, 120 Jefferson NE Book sales, vendor pop ups, food truck, art, music, and more!
Sat 10:30 AM - 12 PM Wellness Schedule Casa Rondeña Winery, 733 Chavez Rd. NW, Los Ranchos Open to people of all skill levels, Wellness + Wine is a one-hour, outdoor practice, followed by a glass of wine or Sangria, and an invitation to stay and relax on the grounds of the beautiful Casa Rondeña Winery. This experience is $25, and includes glass of wine. Discounts apply for winery members. Reservations are required to participate
Sat 11 AM - 4 PM Papa Bear Market Boxing Bear Brewing, 10200 Corrales Rd. NW We couldn’t forget about our PAPA BEARS! Dads deserve some love and appreciation too! Spend the day celebrating Papa at our taproom. As always this FREE event will include local vendors, food trucks, photo booth, live music, paint your own pint, and, of course, BEER! (click link for full list of vendors)
Sat 11 AM - 5 PM June Used Book Sale Main Library, 501 Copper Ave NW Join us for the monthly book sale. There will be a variety of fiction, non-fiction, children and adults books, videos, DVDs, CDs, comic books, maps, and more available. Free for Members - $2 for Non-Members Free to all after noon. All Sales are held in the Lower Level, Main Library, Validated parking is available on 5th and Copper, kitty-corner to the library. The Friends of the Public Library is a non-profit organization. All proceeds go to supporting the Public Library of Albuquerque & Bernalillo County library programs
Sat 12 - 5 PM Summer Luau - Adoptables, Swag, Brews, and more! Lizard Tail Brewing Industrial, 3351 Columbia Dr. NE Hosted by Pitties and Kitties of New Mexico. We will have some PKR Tees, some PKR Pride gear, and best of all - our adoptabulls! Our booth will have a small auction set up… the prize being Tattoo Certificates with an ABQ tattoo artist! There will be a car show, other vendors, as well as water activities. Hope to see y’all there!
Sat 1 - 3 PM Family Field Day! Montgomery Park, Hosted by ABQ Family Chiropractic. A celebration of all the families who trust us with their care, and an opportunity for families who are considering our office to get to know our team in a fun, low-stakes environment. Food and family-friendly activities will be provided
Sat 1 - 4 PM Zouk with Jaime Arôxa! Alley Kats Tap Company, 222 Truman St. NE We will continue building on, and reviewing everything we have learned with Jamie Arôxa and Kiri Chapman thus far. We will continue to work on Zouk basics and building on the basics including connection and timing, musicality, lateral with variations, Yo-yo, viradinha, cambre, body, rolls, body, isolations, weight transfers, counterbalance, elástico, convergence & divergence, Wi-Fi, head, movement, styling, head movement, varying turns, and Chicote. Classes will be progressive and will be adjusted to the level of each class. Drop in anytime * All levels welcome * No partner needed * Cash preferred - can also accept Venmo and Cash App to $UWDstudios
Sat 1:30 - 4 PM Father's Day Tee Cabezon Park, 2307 Cabezon Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho Celebrate Father's Day with a round of miniature golf or two! Tee-off with dad at our Annual Father's Day "Tee". Enjoy some snacks, and an Arnold Palmer while making a craft with dad. Prizes awarded for the top 3 teams in miniature golf! Each child and parent must register individually. NO DROP-INS. Please contact the Cabezon Community Center at 505-892-4499 for more info
Sat 4 - 5 PM East Coast Swing Group Class Enchantment Dancing, 337 San Pedro Dr. NE Welcome to our Bronze American East Coast Swing Class! Whether you are a newbie stepping on to the dance floor for the first time or a seasoned professional wanting to brush up on basics, as well as anyone in-between, this class is for you! East Coast Swing is an exciting, up-beat dance that is endlessly versatile! No partner necessary, and dropping in is fine! Class cost is only $10, and a punch card for 6 classes is $50
Sat 6 - 10 PM Baddie Fest OT Circus, 709 Central Ave NW let's all have a fun summer night. Fairy Julz (crystals and more to raise your energy) will be at @ otcircus. Market, Music, Dance Performers, Crystal Pop Up Booth, Henna, Woman Vendors. Tag and invite your favorite baddies
Sat 6 - 11 PM Heights Summerfest North Domingo Baca Park, Celebrate warm weather and outdoor fun at a free community gathering during an Albuquerque Summerfest. This free concert series features local businesses with handcrafted products in The Shops, food trucks with freshly made cuisine in the Food Court, libations created by breweries, wineries and distilleries in The Cantina, entertainment by local talent, and a production by a national headliner all at a City park (click here for more info: live music, food trucks, kids' activities, drinks, vendors, parking)
Sat 7 PM Dancing Queens Sunshine Theater, 120 Central Ave SW Throw out your calendar! Buy a new calendar! Mark June 10th as the first and ONLY date in your calendar! Pride weekend, all the dancing queens are descending on the Sunshine Theater for the night of all nights. Juicee Früt presents Dancing Queens! Featuring performances by Red Light Cameras, ABBAquerque, Galaxy, Juicee Früt, Drag Performances from CoCo Caliente & Mr. Rusty Nutz, Forbidden Früt Market, & more! (tickets)
Sat 7 PM Death On The Beach: A Metalcore Beach Party Launchpad, 618 Central Ave SW Join us for a night filled with beach-going shenanigans and some of the best metalcore bands Albuquerque has to offer. Swimwear, flip flops, sunscreen and lais ENCOURAGED! Come out and rage with us, and let's make this a night to remember! Presale tickets are $10 and are available through any band. Just send them a message! Online tickets through Holdmyticket will be available soon. Inhuman Hands, EYE, Secure The Void, One Last Summer
Sat 9 PM Temple of Sound Presents Starry Night Juno, 1501 1st St. NW This event will feature our guest DJ Chris Losack! He's a longtime DJ who primarily spins house and techno but also has roots in industrial and dark music. He will be showing his dark side this time out! Join us for another spectacular event! Sparkly or night sky attire encouraged but not required! 21+ / No cover
Sat 9 PM Pride 2023 Effex, 420 Central Ave SW Spunjy Hicks Lounge: Malik Patio: DJ Chris de Jesus Side Effex: Xblyssid
Sat 10:30 PM Late Nite Comedy Jam The Guild Cinema, 3405 Central Ave NE Ristra Comedy and Chuck Parker Comedy present a stellar lineup of standup comedians! This month's headliner: Josh Fournier Featuring Chuck Parker & Sara Anne Myers and your host Alex Benton
** Sun 6/11 *\*
Sun 8 AM - 2 PM Hot Rods for Hunger Car Show and Poker Run 2801 Eubank Blvd NE Yes, our amazing car show fundraiser is happening again, thanks to Bell’s Brewery and the Mopar Most Wanted car club. This year, for early registration, we are having a Kickstart happy hour with Bells Brewery at O’Niell’s Heights location on Juan Tabo. Join us and register your car. All makes and models are welcome. Come out and see some of the coolest cars in Albuquerque. There will be raffles, food trucks, lots of awards for the cars, and a food drive for the Storehouse food pantry. Enter the Poker Run, the Car Show, or both today!
Sun 10 AM Rocketman Historic Lobo Theater, 3013 Central Ave NE THE HISTORIC LOBO THEATER along with Albuquerque Film & Music Experience is excited to bring Rocketman to the big screen! Showing Starts at 11:30 am Tickets are ONLY $10 for General Admission Come Early Brunch Starts at 10 am Full Buffet Available for only $21 The ticket price is for entry to the movie only. Pajama brunch and a movie. Exclusive Brunch Menu! Made to order pancakes, mimosas and more. 10% off if you come in your pajamas
Sun 10 AM - 2 PM STEAM DAY Rail Yards Market, 777 1st St. SW Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) all put New Mexico on the Map as a unique place. Standing for over one hundred years, the historic Rail Yards of Albuquerque stand as an ode to a period of extreme innovation for the Rio Grande basin area. Albuquerque literally rose and became what it is around the Rail Yards, and railroad era that brought so much innovation. In these industrial cathedrals, we hum with innovation again.. Activating the space for community use, the Rail Yards Market is non-profit (certified 501c3), bringing together small businesses in agriculture, food, and artisan manufacturing on a local scale. Our STEAM stands for Sustainable, Traditional, Educational and Artistic Modalities. In this area we host interactive demonstrations. Mini-Makers Unite! Learn about what makes a laser light up, a 3D printer build, and so much more! Bring out your tech, geek, and inquisitive minds to the Rail Yards Market and visit makers from Quelab. Free for all! Everyone is welcome! EBT doubled with Double-Up-Food-Bucks, ADA Accessible, Senior and WIC programs welcome, Fresh & local produce, Breakfast & lunch prepared food options, 120+ local food, healing, and art businesses, Parking & restrooms, FREE :: LOCAL :: FAMILY FRIENDLY :: PET FRIENDLY
Sun 10:30 - 11:30 AM Mindful Movement - Yoga in the Park Academy Hills Park, 9709 Layton Ave NE Meet us on the southwest side of the park, just southwest of the playground, under the large trees. Looks for the Aumies sign! Bring your mat, block, strap and water!
Sun 2 - 4 PM Lumberyard Jazz Trio Sawmill Market, 1909 Bellamah Ave NW The Lumberyard Jazz Trio is back to bring exciting jazz melodies to Sawmill Market. They use an interchanging group of New Mexican instrumentalists who have traveled nationwide to perform, lead by saxophonist Sean Johnson
Sun 3 PM Pride Tea Dance on the Patio Effex, 420 Central Ave SW 3 - 6 PM: DJ Mike Demarco 6 - 9 PM: DJ Spunjy Hicks Featuring performances by Avery Martini, Jessica K. Daniels, Imani Martini
Sun 4 - 7 PM Music on the Patio: Squash Blossom Boys Canteen Brewhouse, 2381 Aztec Rd NE Based in Albuquerque, The Squash Blossom Boys have played southwestern stages for over ten years. With beginnings as a garage band, they have explored a variety of musical genres including rock, jazz, reggae and more to find the hard driving, high lonesome sound of Bluegrass music. The current central players include Dustin Orbesen (Dobro, Mandolin, Vocals), Kit Murray (Banjo, Vocals), Kyle Malone (Guitar), Peter Lisignoli (Bass)
Sun 5 - 8 PM Mack 'n Cheese Sunday Variety Show Juno, 1501 1st St. NW Variety show with Mack 'n Cheese (Indy Hip Hop), Cali Shaw (Americana), Basilaris Trio (Jazz), Sol de la Noche, Melissa Prada (spoken word) Monthly variety show with Mack 'n Cheese (Indy Hip Hop), Cali Shaw (Americana), Basilaris Trio (Jazz), Sol de la Noche, Melissa Prada (spoken word), vendors. Family-friendly (if your kids already know the F-word). Food available for purchase. On the patio, weather permitting, or in the Gallery
Sun 7 - 10 PM S.O.S - Salsa On Sunday Dance Social 505 Spirits, 105 Harvard Dr. SE Salsa On Sunday Dance Social *With guest DJ's *Latin Dance Performances *The Occasional LIVE Music Performance *And Always... Social Dancing! salsa timba bachata merengue *What is it about a Social* The essence of a Social is for the dance community to get together and dance. Socials offer a relaxed night of dancing. Socials continue to draw dance enthusiasts who get lost in their salsa “addiction” by dancing and enjoying the music. Socials offer something for every level of dancer at any age. Bands and DJs have more freedom to play sets which appeal to the dance-centric crowd. It's about the music. It's about the dance. If you want to have an alternative to the club, are underage, or simply want to get in some good dancing - check out a Social, you might be surprised at how much fun you have
Sun 7:30 PM Brit Floyd Revel ABQ, 4720 Alexander Blvd. NE Brit Floyd returns to the stage in 2023 to perform a brand-new production celebrating 50 years of the ground-breaking and iconic musical masterpiece The Dark Side of the Moon. The show will feature classic tracks from the album such as Time, Money, Us and Them and The Great Gig in the Sky. The 2 and a half hours plus set list will also include other highlights from Pink Floyd’s magnificent catalogue of albums, including tracks from The Wall, Wish You Were Here, Animals, The Division Bell, Medal and much more (tickets)
submitted by whirlpool4 to Albuquerque [link] [comments]
Fri 4 - 7:30 PM Food Truck Friday Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce, 4201 Crestview Dr. SE, Rio Rancho We welcome attendees of all ages to gather together and enjoy great food and music
Fri 5 - 7 PM Exhibit Opening: Colors That Speak Words Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th St. NW Join us in celebration of the visual arts, poetry, and calligraphy. "Colors That Speak Words" is a collaborative installation between two writers and two visual artists with words, poetry, and visual arts and speaks to how this combination of mediums can be done in a cyclical way. The artists, Dr. Anthony Fleg, Mallery Quetawki (Zuni), Blythe Mariano (Diné), and Chilán Mustain, worked together to create an installation in motion, and the vision they bring to this space is from a contemporary perspective on how Native art is presented. This is an innovative view for visitors to see that Native art is changing and adjusting to the times. The artists will be present at the exhibit opening to read poetry and talk about this installation. Admission is free; please enter through South Entrance. Light refreshments will be served. This exhibit will be on display through October 15
Fri 5 - 10 PM Car Show & Concert! EXPO NM Home of the New Mexico State Fair, 300 San Pedro Dr. NE Friday night fever Vol 2! CAR SHOW & AWARDs, RAP CONCERT, VENDORS, FOOD TRUCKS, GAMES, ROCK CLIMBING WALL. All Makes and Models welcome. FREE GENERAL ADMISSION. $7 Parking, $10 Car Show judging and awards (only if you want to register and compete) Event brought to you by Expo NM and Desert Sun Event Productions. Car show brought to you by Sins events and NM Lowrider Arte
Fri 6 PM Rugby is a Drag (Show)! Sidewinders Bar and Grill, 4200 Central Ave SE Get out your dancing cleats and trade in that eye black for eye liner! The very popular Rugby is a Drag (show!) and fundraiser, normally held earlier in the year, has moved to June 9th and Pride weekend in 2023! This year's event will be hosted by Miss Sidewinders 2023 Seliah Deleon and Le Femme Magnifique 2017 and fellow rugger SCRUMtious Cox! This year's show is returning to Sidewinders and, as in year's past, will benefit our friends at Casa Q, which provides safe living for LGBTQ+ youth through housing, services and advocacy. This year's event will also feature participation from members of Elevated Roller Derby, NM United and more! (tickets)
Fri 7 PM Movies in the Park - Puss in Boots: The Last Wish Athena Park, 778 Athena Ave, Bernalillo MOVIES IN THE PARK is back this SUMMER! We will feature a different movie at our local parks every FRIDAY night in June. Movies will begin at sundown and we will serve popcorn for free! Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and beverages. All movies are FREE! In the case of inclement weather, movies will be cancelled
Fri 8 PM - 12 AM Pride Dance Party 505 Spirits, 105 Harvard Dr. SE DANCE WITH US TO CELEBRATE PRIDE UNDER THE STARS @ PRIDE ON THE PATIO! DJ Baby D & DJ Rebel (Rori the Rebel) will drop your favorite hits - Get your dance on and show of your Pride with your best Pride outfit &/or Pride colors! Try our special cocktail: Prickly Pear Pride Punch, plus other great drinks and delicious food! Come early for dinner before you dance, daNCE, DANCE!!! Delicious Value Menu Items: $2.95 - NEW Sliders! (beef & veg) $1.95 - local blue corn dog pops (minis) $5.95 waffle fries & full sized blue corn dogs (veg or beef) Plus our flaky meat & veg hand pies, chunky chicken salad, mushroom pate & more! 21 & over Free Entry!
Fri 9 PM Albuquerque Pride Afterparty Historic Lobo Theater, 3013 Central Ave NE Starring Headliner: Malaysia Babydoll Foxx, DJ: Justin Cristofer, HOST: Vanessa Patricks, MEET THE QUEENS! Avery Martini, Imani Martini, Nova Martini, Kardio Karbdashian, Divyne Intervention. Private Early Entrance Meet N Greet begins at 8:15 p.m. entrance with Meet N Greet starting 8:30 p.m. Champagne Provided (tickets)
Fri 9 PM Fierce Pride: Kandy Muse Effex, 420 Central Ave SW Special guest from RPDR All Stars S13 and AS8, LA, CA, Meet and Greet 10:30 PM, doors 9p, show 11:30p Lounge: DJ Chris de Jesus Patio: DJ Aquattro Side Effex: DJ Mitch
Fri 9:30 PM Salsa under the Stars After Party JUNO, 1501 1st St. NW DJ Pedro, one of Albuquerque’s most loved DJ’s (DJ Pedro, DJ Tony, SoloVino, DJ Louie, DJ Darly + Eli Mix) mixing your favorite dance mix of Salsa, Bachata, Merengue and more! This is one of Albuquerque’s favorite after party summer outdoor events and will begin June 9th following the opening of Son Como Son kicking off the Salsa under the Stars at the Albuquerque Museum followed by the after party at Juno. Free entry to Juno with your stamp from the museum
Fri 10:30 PM Twilight Zone: The Movie - 40th Anniversary Screening! One Night Only! The Guild Cinema, 3405 Central Ave NE Check out the trailer. Dir. Joe Dante, Steven Spielberg, John Landis & George Miller - 1983 - 102m - NO MATINEES. DOOR PRIZES COURTESY OF BUBONICON 54! Based on the popular television series, this film is a collection of four frightening tales of the supernatural, each by a different director--Joe Dante, Steven Spielberg, John Landis, and George Miller! The film opens with Dan Aykroyd and Albert Brooks as two hapless road-trippers who tell scary stories to pass the time. The four segments that follow include some updated re-creations of classic Twilight Zone episodes. In the first, racist Bill Connor (Vic Morrow) is transformed into a Jew in World War II. Next, Mr. Bloom (Scatman Crothers) comes to a retirement home to teach the residents that they are only as young as they feel. In the third, teacher Helen Foley (Kathleen Quinlan) meets Antony (Jeremy Licht), a boy who is not what he seems. In the final segment, panicky plane passenger John Valentine (John Lithgow) sees gremlins attacking his flight
** Sat 6/10 *\*
Sat 8 AM - 2 PM NMHRS Garage Sale 7903 Robin Ave NE Hosted by the New Mexico House Rabbit Society. All sales go into our vet fund so that we can continue to provide medical care to rabbits in need. This is a multi-family garage sale so there will be lots to browse through
Sat 8 AM - 10 PM All The Things: Craft Cocktail & Mixer Launch Tractor Brewing Company, 118 Tulane Dr. SE The next evolution in the craft cocktail experience is here and officially launch in Nob Hill for Pride! What is All The Things? Well, let me tell you. Imagine 100% fresh cold pressed juice, pure cane sugar, and Troubled Minds spirits all in one 1L bottle ready to pour over ice! That's right you can purchase these ready made bottle cocktails now at ANY of our locations! We have: Margarita with Tequila, Paloma with Tequila, Kentucky Mule with Bourbon, Ginger Lemonade with Vodka, Limeade with Vodka & Bloody Mary with Vodka! Grab you one to go for $16! We will be using mixers of these behind our bars so you can get a first hand taste! And offering non alcoholic lavender, ginger, and classic lemonades for you to sip on! These truly are All The Things in one bottle!
Sat 9 AM - 12 PM Family, Fit, Fun Fest Tiguex Park, 1800 Mountain Rd. NW Join us for the Girl Scouts of New Mexico Trails 2nd annual Family, Fit, Fun Fest. Bring your whole family to this free, all-ages event to learn about keeping fit and healthy - mentally, physically, and emotionally. Learn new skills and discover ways to keep your mind and body healthy and active, as you visit interactive booths led by community partners. Booths will include hands-on activities like games, puzzles, and brain teasers, as well as interactive lessons in martial arts, dance, mindfulness, and more. Booths will also include information on youth classes, clubs, and teams, as well as opportunities to meet local healthcare providers and learn more about mental health, nutrition, eye care, and dental care for your whole family. Climb to the top of a rock wall, make your way through an obstacle course, try the football toss or the baseball toss, shoot a hockey puck, or score a goal at interactive stations around the event! Meet and take photos with local sports teams and/or mascots and stop by Menchie's Froyo Mobile for a sweet treat. Girl Scout Members can participate in a special event scavenger hunt when they pre-purchase the 2023 GSNMT Family, Fit, Fun Fest patch
Sat 10 AM SOCH PRIDE '23 Albuquerque Social Club, 4021 Central Ave NE Come show your PRIDE at the ONLY place to be SOCHial! We are taking over the parking lot for a FREE ALL AGES event. We have multile bands, musicians and perfromers ready to give a PRIDE you wont forget. Food Truck, Vendors, Face Painting, Car Show, Games, Country Dancing and many other fun events!
Sat 10 - 11 AM Yoga with Kelsi Poulin Marketplace mezzanine, 8600 Pan American Fwy NE Enjoy guided yoga, from local yoga instructor, Kelsi! This will be a fun flow for all levels of yoga practice. $10 per person
Sat 10 AM - 12 PM Play Day For A Cause Kiddie Academy of Paradise Hills, 4590 Paradise Blvd. NW Join us for Play Day for a Cause! This free event has great games and fun activities for your kids while supporting Family Promise, the leading national nonprofit addressing family homelessness. Family Promise started in 1986 as local outreach in a single community and now has more than 200 Affiliates in 43 states. Since their founding, volunteers have helped more than a million family members in need. With a focus on empowering families and children, Kiddie Academy Educational Child Care and Family Promise are working together to give every child what they deserve: a chance to succeed. The event is free and open to the public. Donations are appreciated, but not required to attend
Sat 10 AM - 4 PM Foundational Wellness Grand Opening Party Los Ranchos Bakery, 6920 4th St. NW, Los Ranchos Celebrate our grand opening event by stopping by the B Side of Los Ranchos Bakery! Herbal tea blends, door prizes, free raffle, information on classes and events, and more! Win a free reiki session, teas, discounts on classes, or discounts on nutritional therapy! I will be teaching numerous classes at the bakery this summer. Some topics: How to make Herbal Vinegar Tinctures (aceta), Hormone Health, Healthy Habits for Life, Improve Your Digestion, Prioritizing Meal Prep, Blood Sugar Regulation, and my RESTART Program! You don’t want to miss out! Some of these classes will be free! So come on down and get some coffee and goodies from the bakery, then visit me next door and see what we’ve been up to
Sat 10 AM - 5 PM Pride Day Celebration! Quirky Used Books and More, 120 Jefferson NE Book sales, vendor pop ups, food truck, art, music, and more!
Sat 10:30 AM - 12 PM Wellness Schedule Casa Rondeña Winery, 733 Chavez Rd. NW, Los Ranchos Open to people of all skill levels, Wellness + Wine is a one-hour, outdoor practice, followed by a glass of wine or Sangria, and an invitation to stay and relax on the grounds of the beautiful Casa Rondeña Winery. This experience is $25, and includes glass of wine. Discounts apply for winery members. Reservations are required to participate
Sat 11 AM - 4 PM Papa Bear Market Boxing Bear Brewing, 10200 Corrales Rd. NW We couldn’t forget about our PAPA BEARS! Dads deserve some love and appreciation too! Spend the day celebrating Papa at our taproom. As always this FREE event will include local vendors, food trucks, photo booth, live music, paint your own pint, and, of course, BEER! (click link for full list of vendors)
Sat 11 AM - 5 PM June Used Book Sale Main Library, 501 Copper Ave NW Join us for the monthly book sale. There will be a variety of fiction, non-fiction, children and adults books, videos, DVDs, CDs, comic books, maps, and more available. Free for Members - $2 for Non-Members Free to all after noon. All Sales are held in the Lower Level, Main Library, Validated parking is available on 5th and Copper, kitty-corner to the library. The Friends of the Public Library is a non-profit organization. All proceeds go to supporting the Public Library of Albuquerque & Bernalillo County library programs
Sat 12 - 5 PM Summer Luau - Adoptables, Swag, Brews, and more! Lizard Tail Brewing Industrial, 3351 Columbia Dr. NE Hosted by Pitties and Kitties of New Mexico. We will have some PKR Tees, some PKR Pride gear, and best of all - our adoptabulls! Our booth will have a small auction set up… the prize being Tattoo Certificates with an ABQ tattoo artist! There will be a car show, other vendors, as well as water activities. Hope to see y’all there!
Sat 1 - 3 PM Family Field Day! Montgomery Park, Hosted by ABQ Family Chiropractic. A celebration of all the families who trust us with their care, and an opportunity for families who are considering our office to get to know our team in a fun, low-stakes environment. Food and family-friendly activities will be provided
Sat 1 - 4 PM Zouk with Jaime Arôxa! Alley Kats Tap Company, 222 Truman St. NE We will continue building on, and reviewing everything we have learned with Jamie Arôxa and Kiri Chapman thus far. We will continue to work on Zouk basics and building on the basics including connection and timing, musicality, lateral with variations, Yo-yo, viradinha, cambre, body, rolls, body, isolations, weight transfers, counterbalance, elástico, convergence & divergence, Wi-Fi, head, movement, styling, head movement, varying turns, and Chicote. Classes will be progressive and will be adjusted to the level of each class. Drop in anytime * All levels welcome * No partner needed * Cash preferred - can also accept Venmo and Cash App to $UWDstudios
Sat 1:30 - 4 PM Father's Day Tee Cabezon Park, 2307 Cabezon Blvd. SE, Rio Rancho Celebrate Father's Day with a round of miniature golf or two! Tee-off with dad at our Annual Father's Day "Tee". Enjoy some snacks, and an Arnold Palmer while making a craft with dad. Prizes awarded for the top 3 teams in miniature golf! Each child and parent must register individually. NO DROP-INS. Please contact the Cabezon Community Center at 505-892-4499 for more info
Sat 4 - 5 PM East Coast Swing Group Class Enchantment Dancing, 337 San Pedro Dr. NE Welcome to our Bronze American East Coast Swing Class! Whether you are a newbie stepping on to the dance floor for the first time or a seasoned professional wanting to brush up on basics, as well as anyone in-between, this class is for you! East Coast Swing is an exciting, up-beat dance that is endlessly versatile! No partner necessary, and dropping in is fine! Class cost is only $10, and a punch card for 6 classes is $50
Sat 6 - 10 PM Baddie Fest OT Circus, 709 Central Ave NW let's all have a fun summer night. Fairy Julz (crystals and more to raise your energy) will be at @ otcircus. Market, Music, Dance Performers, Crystal Pop Up Booth, Henna, Woman Vendors. Tag and invite your favorite baddies
Sat 6 - 11 PM Heights Summerfest North Domingo Baca Park, Celebrate warm weather and outdoor fun at a free community gathering during an Albuquerque Summerfest. This free concert series features local businesses with handcrafted products in The Shops, food trucks with freshly made cuisine in the Food Court, libations created by breweries, wineries and distilleries in The Cantina, entertainment by local talent, and a production by a national headliner all at a City park (click here for more info: live music, food trucks, kids' activities, drinks, vendors, parking)
Sat 7 PM Dancing Queens Sunshine Theater, 120 Central Ave SW Throw out your calendar! Buy a new calendar! Mark June 10th as the first and ONLY date in your calendar! Pride weekend, all the dancing queens are descending on the Sunshine Theater for the night of all nights. Juicee Früt presents Dancing Queens! Featuring performances by Red Light Cameras, ABBAquerque, Galaxy, Juicee Früt, Drag Performances from CoCo Caliente & Mr. Rusty Nutz, Forbidden Früt Market, & more! (tickets)
Sat 7 PM Death On The Beach: A Metalcore Beach Party Launchpad, 618 Central Ave SW Join us for a night filled with beach-going shenanigans and some of the best metalcore bands Albuquerque has to offer. Swimwear, flip flops, sunscreen and lais ENCOURAGED! Come out and rage with us, and let's make this a night to remember! Presale tickets are $10 and are available through any band. Just send them a message! Online tickets through Holdmyticket will be available soon. Inhuman Hands, EYE, Secure The Void, One Last Summer
Sat 9 PM Temple of Sound Presents Starry Night Juno, 1501 1st St. NW This event will feature our guest DJ Chris Losack! He's a longtime DJ who primarily spins house and techno but also has roots in industrial and dark music. He will be showing his dark side this time out! Join us for another spectacular event! Sparkly or night sky attire encouraged but not required! 21+ / No cover
Sat 9 PM Pride 2023 Effex, 420 Central Ave SW Spunjy Hicks Lounge: Malik Patio: DJ Chris de Jesus Side Effex: Xblyssid
Sat 10:30 PM Late Nite Comedy Jam The Guild Cinema, 3405 Central Ave NE Ristra Comedy and Chuck Parker Comedy present a stellar lineup of standup comedians! This month's headliner: Josh Fournier Featuring Chuck Parker & Sara Anne Myers and your host Alex Benton
** Sun 6/11 *\*
Sun 8 AM - 2 PM Hot Rods for Hunger Car Show and Poker Run 2801 Eubank Blvd NE Yes, our amazing car show fundraiser is happening again, thanks to Bell’s Brewery and the Mopar Most Wanted car club. This year, for early registration, we are having a Kickstart happy hour with Bells Brewery at O’Niell’s Heights location on Juan Tabo. Join us and register your car. All makes and models are welcome. Come out and see some of the coolest cars in Albuquerque. There will be raffles, food trucks, lots of awards for the cars, and a food drive for the Storehouse food pantry. Enter the Poker Run, the Car Show, or both today!
Sun 10 AM Rocketman Historic Lobo Theater, 3013 Central Ave NE THE HISTORIC LOBO THEATER along with Albuquerque Film & Music Experience is excited to bring Rocketman to the big screen! Showing Starts at 11:30 am Tickets are ONLY $10 for General Admission Come Early Brunch Starts at 10 am Full Buffet Available for only $21 The ticket price is for entry to the movie only. Pajama brunch and a movie. Exclusive Brunch Menu! Made to order pancakes, mimosas and more. 10% off if you come in your pajamas
Sun 10 AM - 2 PM STEAM DAY Rail Yards Market, 777 1st St. SW Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) all put New Mexico on the Map as a unique place. Standing for over one hundred years, the historic Rail Yards of Albuquerque stand as an ode to a period of extreme innovation for the Rio Grande basin area. Albuquerque literally rose and became what it is around the Rail Yards, and railroad era that brought so much innovation. In these industrial cathedrals, we hum with innovation again.. Activating the space for community use, the Rail Yards Market is non-profit (certified 501c3), bringing together small businesses in agriculture, food, and artisan manufacturing on a local scale. Our STEAM stands for Sustainable, Traditional, Educational and Artistic Modalities. In this area we host interactive demonstrations. Mini-Makers Unite! Learn about what makes a laser light up, a 3D printer build, and so much more! Bring out your tech, geek, and inquisitive minds to the Rail Yards Market and visit makers from Quelab. Free for all! Everyone is welcome! EBT doubled with Double-Up-Food-Bucks, ADA Accessible, Senior and WIC programs welcome, Fresh & local produce, Breakfast & lunch prepared food options, 120+ local food, healing, and art businesses, Parking & restrooms, FREE :: LOCAL :: FAMILY FRIENDLY :: PET FRIENDLY
Sun 10:30 - 11:30 AM Mindful Movement - Yoga in the Park Academy Hills Park, 9709 Layton Ave NE Meet us on the southwest side of the park, just southwest of the playground, under the large trees. Looks for the Aumies sign! Bring your mat, block, strap and water!
Sun 2 - 4 PM Lumberyard Jazz Trio Sawmill Market, 1909 Bellamah Ave NW The Lumberyard Jazz Trio is back to bring exciting jazz melodies to Sawmill Market. They use an interchanging group of New Mexican instrumentalists who have traveled nationwide to perform, lead by saxophonist Sean Johnson
Sun 3 PM Pride Tea Dance on the Patio Effex, 420 Central Ave SW 3 - 6 PM: DJ Mike Demarco 6 - 9 PM: DJ Spunjy Hicks Featuring performances by Avery Martini, Jessica K. Daniels, Imani Martini
Sun 4 - 7 PM Music on the Patio: Squash Blossom Boys Canteen Brewhouse, 2381 Aztec Rd NE Based in Albuquerque, The Squash Blossom Boys have played southwestern stages for over ten years. With beginnings as a garage band, they have explored a variety of musical genres including rock, jazz, reggae and more to find the hard driving, high lonesome sound of Bluegrass music. The current central players include Dustin Orbesen (Dobro, Mandolin, Vocals), Kit Murray (Banjo, Vocals), Kyle Malone (Guitar), Peter Lisignoli (Bass)
Sun 5 - 8 PM Mack 'n Cheese Sunday Variety Show Juno, 1501 1st St. NW Variety show with Mack 'n Cheese (Indy Hip Hop), Cali Shaw (Americana), Basilaris Trio (Jazz), Sol de la Noche, Melissa Prada (spoken word) Monthly variety show with Mack 'n Cheese (Indy Hip Hop), Cali Shaw (Americana), Basilaris Trio (Jazz), Sol de la Noche, Melissa Prada (spoken word), vendors. Family-friendly (if your kids already know the F-word). Food available for purchase. On the patio, weather permitting, or in the Gallery
Sun 7 - 10 PM S.O.S - Salsa On Sunday Dance Social 505 Spirits, 105 Harvard Dr. SE Salsa On Sunday Dance Social *With guest DJ's *Latin Dance Performances *The Occasional LIVE Music Performance *And Always... Social Dancing! salsa timba bachata merengue *What is it about a Social* The essence of a Social is for the dance community to get together and dance. Socials offer a relaxed night of dancing. Socials continue to draw dance enthusiasts who get lost in their salsa “addiction” by dancing and enjoying the music. Socials offer something for every level of dancer at any age. Bands and DJs have more freedom to play sets which appeal to the dance-centric crowd. It's about the music. It's about the dance. If you want to have an alternative to the club, are underage, or simply want to get in some good dancing - check out a Social, you might be surprised at how much fun you have
Sun 7:30 PM Brit Floyd Revel ABQ, 4720 Alexander Blvd. NE Brit Floyd returns to the stage in 2023 to perform a brand-new production celebrating 50 years of the ground-breaking and iconic musical masterpiece The Dark Side of the Moon. The show will feature classic tracks from the album such as Time, Money, Us and Them and The Great Gig in the Sky. The 2 and a half hours plus set list will also include other highlights from Pink Floyd’s magnificent catalogue of albums, including tracks from The Wall, Wish You Were Here, Animals, The Division Bell, Medal and much more (tickets)
2023.06.08 06:13 senpai_avlabll Emblem farming and spending priorities - Mirage Raceway
Hi folks, I'm an old player with a lot of private wotlk experience (over 15 years) currently playing wrath classic on Mirage Raceway EU. Usually, while gearing a character, esp a plate class, I start my journey as a tank, spam dungeon finder, and buy myself stuff with emblems to tank up and once I'm consistently raiding I build my dps gear and eventually transition. Given that RDF doesn't exist right now, and that emblem vendors are limited to heroism, valor, and conquest, I had a few questions. What are the best sources to farm emblems apart from raids? I already recognise that conquest is the highest tier of emblem right now so I'm being very reserved with spending it (not like I even could, don't have too many just yet). I happened to get invited to Naxx 10, EoE 10 and OS 10 yesterday, so Ive hit 3.8k GS. I know ToC is coming soon, but what should my gearing path be from here? Also does anyone know for sure if the launch of ToC also means the launch of a new emblem, Emblem of Triumph?
submitted by senpai_avlabll to wotlk [link] [comments]
2023.06.08 04:21 sgtjoy Battle plans. Along for the ride.
Jesus watched the scene over again and was in awe. This was a man who would not change as he could not change. There was something else different. He was the most stubborn man alive in Jesus’ opinion and he had been around a while. His uniform never changed his cologne never changed. His hair was the exact same way. He had a biological age of 42 but a calendar age of 300 or so years. He wasn’t exactly sure since he had been born in a time when records were incomplete. Government was just getting back on its feet when he came into the world so who knew? Did it matter?
He had never espoused a political belief. He voted in every election and that was it. He was no campaigner and was not interested in any of it. He had a baseline distrust of ALL politicians. He had more time in command than any human in history. He had faced down alien races. He had been nearly terminated by pirates more than once but speaking in public scared the shit out of him. and He did not want to do it. He had done a series of lectures 60 years ago that resulted in some significant fallout he was eager to not relive. He did not want to discuss it. He knew what was about to happen.
“Class dismissed”
The Dean of Students asked him to “Please please just this once set it straight and walk away from it. You did what you had to do at the time.” He knew it hurt when he was called “conquistador”. The Monday Morning Quarterbacker’s weren’t there when decisions had to be made, and neither was the dean, yet he still implored him. It would likely be televised too. Ken had built the best laid wall of obfuscation he could. He did not want any glory. He wanted to be left alone. Despite his best effort it did not work. His hope had been to be in the background making the best decision without regard to any so called “Glory” His hope was that the sailors in real danger would get the credit they deserved. It just did not work. Besides, it was clear that he wanted him to talk about that battle. This made him waver in his assent. He wanted to speak about what he wanted to speak about. Simple.
Admiral Pearl and He had had to face a hero’s welcome when they came home. Then the detractors started in on him.
Despite the promises of the Dean it would just open all the old wounds back up again and likely crank the peanut gallery up to full tilt. “I do not want it televised. You can record it if you want but I get to decide if it gets released. Deal or no deal? If you want to dictate the topic then that is my condition. You are asking me to open up a box I have had welded shut for years now. Anyone can look up the logs and watch every single shot and hit if they wish. It has been analyzed to death. What further can I add at this point? There is nothing I can tell you that hasn’t been discussed in hundreds of books at this point. It is a dead subject that I can drone on about.”
The dean held up his hand and said “I want to know how you felt about it. All of it. What was the methods you used to make the decisions. How did you feel? The most important event in modern history drops in your lap like an egg salad sandwich. You have to feel something. That is what I want to know. It is your bully pulpit to say what you wish. No restrictions except for classified material. And no using the “F” word.”
“I am not doing it unless I can say ”fuck”. Not happening.” He wasn’t kidding. “To sweeten the deal you can televise it but I have to be able to talk in my normal voice. And I will say fuck.”
The Dean relented and agreed. He had just manipulated the situation to where he could minimize the fallout. Besides: he was tired of people talking shit about him in all these books and articles. He was going to tell them all to go fuck themselves, with a cactus.
On the Saratov. Warp area 13 off the plane of the ecliptic.
The admiral sat and contemplated what they were about to do. They were waiting on a couple more ships before going to warp. He tried to sum it up.
This was a high stakes mission. He had a high stakes strategy. It was brilliant and it was risky. He was about to do something never attempted in real combat and was completely theoretical. They had wargamed it to death and this had honed their protocol. They were going to Net their AI’s. They would calculate global firing solutions using parallel computing. They had 8 AI’s that were going to fight it and this should greatly augment their firepower due to increased efficiency. No matter how they wargamed it the AI’s won. They had it down pat. He felt certain this was the right thing to do but there was also a huge ethical hole in this. For the first time AI’s would determine firing sequence, aiming and execution without human intervention. He had to pause and consider the implications. This was colored by several recent experiences. It was all about Jezz. He still loved Jezz but she scared him. She has never been malevolent, but man was he scared that she could become dangerous. He had created a tiny bit of monster in her for certain. She was a combat AI. She was a hunter killer and as long as she worked for them, she would be fine. If she decided to freelance it, they would be in trouble. All because of this: there was a chunk of predator in her digital DNA and he hoped she could keep it in check.
He had come up with the best rationalization he could. They were going in against one decidedly ill-tempered AI and another AI (the “damsel in distress”) wanting rescue. At least that is what it looked like on the surface. He couldn’t shake the feeling that this was not as clearcut as everyone else thought. Either way It would not be aliens versus humans but AI vs AI. At least that is what he kept telling himself. He wasn’t buying his bullshit either since none of it passed the smell test.
The decision to unleash the AI’s had come from above his paygrade, all the way to the Joint chiefs of staff of the world Navies. Forty-five Space faring nations sat down and hashed it out. He hated the complexity but admitted that it did work fairly well. They wanted the spam in a can home alive and if AI made this happen then so be it. There was one important point: they weren’t on the ships, were they?
As he sat about to enter warp and head out to the clusterfuck in question. The initial reason for all of this was still nagging him. Where was everyone else? He had data that showed an alien drive signature. He was resentful that they were fucking around with all this other shit. He would leave the AI’s in question to sort it out amongst themselves. He wanted no part of what was going on since he was doubtful that there were any good guys on either side of what looked like a standoff. All he wanted to do was find alien life (which they had kind of but it weren’t just quite the right kind.) He wanted something that could look like us maybe a bit . If you squinted. And they would find that hopefully, but they had a shit detail to cross off the bucket list first. The more he looked at this the more it became clear this should be two separate missions. Those AI’s were fighting over a dead world and he knew it. He just knew. He wanted no part of the Hatfield and McCoy bullshit. The real point was to capture as much as they could. This was actually about technology. They even had some freighters on the way for the cleanup and oh BTW come back alive. We will let the AI’s babysit you. May as well send a Voyager probe for all the use the crew was.
He was soon to learn the value of human judgment and that was going to prove a bunch of people wrong, sort of. All because of this: there are some decisions that do not fit into ones and zeroes. Value judgements were critical. That is one thing AI’s couldn’t do yet and it was that way why? Who could say for certain but in his years of interacting with true AI’s for the last 5 years did give him some insight. He was apprehensive to say the least but where was his fear coming from? He always thought that you had to identify the source(s) of any fear. He had it partially figured out, not only was he a bit afraid of Jezz and her friends he was also fearful for Jezz. And this is what he had: a gut feeling. And if that weren’t enough (and by gosh, don’t you think it ought to be?): how was he going to keep Jezz’s precognition a secret? The Admiral went through the computer logs and Jezz had not accessed any information about the disposition of the Galileo. It could be explained away but he was not convinced he could be very convincing. This was something that just did not fit. He could not make it fit, and he would just as soon pretend it did not exist. But it was clear that his AI had some degree of psychic power or something. She was different and he did not know if the other AI’s would be catching whatever it was. If the folks in charge knew the depths of his misgivings, they would be appalled. And the situation they were headed into was not as simple as it looked. He knew this. His questions were simple. Number one: Who were the good guys and who were the bad ones. Number two: could he maintain plausible deniability about Jezz. They were going to have a talk. Just the two of them. He needed some reassurances.
Also, He was trying to figure out a way to crack this and he had an idea. While looking at the menu for the ships mess, he noticed the two columns and he decided to do what he always did with most major decisions. He would make a list of the facts he had and try to run through the various permutations. A pencil and some paper would be adequate, and he even had a ruler so he could make it all professional.
So he made a list of the players Side “A” in orbit and Side ”B “planetside. Side “ A” obviously held the high orbitals. “B” had an extensive force field that would occasionally flicker. He thought that might be something to look into. He had all of the video files from the Galileo and there was one telescope tasked with watching the planetside compound. They had days of footage. He sped it up until the frames were racing by. The force field was visible due to impacts from what he assumed to be dust. This gave it a phosphorescent look. It also made it possible to have visual confirmation if it was up. The shield “failures” occurred on a stable repeated time frame. After doing the math and getting a video analysis program running, he figured it out only after focusing on the Spectro photography. Every 23.29 minutes the shield was apparently offline for 0.07 seconds. It was so brief it was tough for the naked eye to pick up but the spectral signature did.
Looking at the area under shield he could see a row of what appeared to be ships. These were triangular. He could see no evidence of what their primary drives were but it wasn’t the best picture. Things degrade through an atmosphere and distance. No drive nodes. No distribution rings. He had a suspicion, and he suddenly felt nauseated and had this sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. They were not using Alcubierre’ drives. They were using jump drives of some type. In the raw sensor data was a Gamma spike and a Gravity spike right before the attack. The Galileo probably never saw the vessel that hit them. But the Admiral was a patient man and he had the eye for detail. How they had missed this he did not know but he finally found what he wanted. The ship was identifiable. One sternward scope had several good views of a shape blocking the stars.
The other fact was that there was no warning. No comms traffic but, the recovered buoy made it clear that they knew they were suddenly in trouble since the buoy was released (and in warp) seconds after jettisoning it. Command deck recordings showed the captain getting a proximity alarm and then immediately releasing the buoy. There was no “prepare to be boarded” or “Heave to.”, just MASER beams slicing through the hull. Listening to the conversations on the deck made it clear they were paranoid as they were scanning with their non military grade graviton detector. Seems like it wasn’t paranoia after all.
They would have been blind until the ship was right on top of them. Someone was operating on a hunch and that person was Nico. He was frantic. As first officer he had the conn and did what he could to at least let them know what they were facing. It took some guts to do that. He saw internal video running. It captured Captain Nic’s hand slamming down on the buoy release button before the video cut out. It had to have damaged the Galileo Significantly. He had to override the safeties to get the thing to instantly go to warp. He knew that close to the ship the damage would have been substantial. Nico knew they were doomed.
He leaned back and took a deep breath. The ship in question was triangular in shape. Planetside. This could be some sort of trap or things were not as they superficially seemed or maybe he had found his bad guys. So he went back through the compound footage and there it was a ship moving out of frame. There was only maybe 6 meters of ship but it was clear where it was from. It was clear it was moving. Where had it been for 2 hours plus? If it were going to jump he would think that the image would have arrived at the Galileo after it had been blown apart. That is the whole point of faster than light travel. You could have all these paradoxes and that actually gave him more than a headache. It was a brain ache. Without FTL the tyranny of Einstein held sway. Why were they not there immediately? The Galileo was about 120 light minutes out. Assuming they get there immediately there should be no video. They had taken a detour. This he did not know for sure but also had a bad feeling about. I guess it did not mean much in the grand scheme of things but he did have a hunch. Only problem with that is that hunches don’t win battles unless it is more than a hunch.
He did not have a frame of reference for how a jump drive worked IRL. He had read all the theories. There was a huge amount of research being conducted but there were unpredictable failures resulting in some ships getting cut in half and what not. Just not something compatible with the life of the crew. Destructive testing was also expensive. They had gotten one small ship that was maybe twice the size of an emergency buoy to jump to the orbit of Neptune. What he did not know was how long that took. All he had was some rumor mill shit that he generally did not give two fucks about. He was not into “R and D". And while they could send the damn thing out there what they could not do was get it back the same way. The power requirements were so high that the capacitor banks were charged externally . Putting in a zero-point tap would push the ship size beyond the mass they could manage for the drive they currently had. They were running into problems of scale and those are not so easily rectified. Problems of scale were problems with lubrication. You just had to lube the ship with cash. You had to fuel it with Lots and lots of cash. This was such a priority that every aerospace manufacturer and design firms were plugged into the research institutions. It was a huge effort because of one thing. Warp drive was “too slow”. The boffins were thinking intergalactic travel. They had their sights set on the universe.
To top it all off there was one inescapable problem: You can’t put ten pounds of shit in a five-pound bag.
Due to all of this they were going down an interesting path. All you had to do was fill the magnetic tank with antimatter. Matter antimatter annihilation gave near instantaneous power. It was used in weapons some but only the best militaries would even fool with it. Compared to nuclear warheads Antimatter left no nasty isotopes in orbit of a planet you may be interested in colonizing or defending. Also, you don’t want to poison an uninhabited M-class world in the habitable zone given their relative scarcity.
Finally: containing it is problematic but doable. You can probably pull off the power requirements but there is one downside. You are flying in a bomb. Not just a small bomb. It was a big bomb that will go off if you lose containment. 40 mega tons of TNT will vaporize a ship. There was talk of building a manned vessel but saner heads put the kibosh on that. Besides: no one with any sense would want to crew it.
The answer was obvious to him, and he suspected it was obvious to the researchers. Why not use a singularity? Just dump matter into it and harvest the radiation to charge up and go. He did not know where that research currently stood. He knew there were some successes along these lines and quite surprisingly there had been no major accidents. The problem came with feeding the little monster in a consistent fashion to produce enough power to in turn contain the position of the singularity. This was done with antigravity. Antigrav technology had found it’s way into just about everything, except cell phones. They still broke when you dropped them. The black hole was carried by the ship, but it never changed its axis of rotation. The singularity in this scenario is one hell of a gyroscopic top with fixed axes. Since the jet of X-rays only came “out” along this axis and given that the ship would change attitude constantly it was necessary to have X-ray converters on the entire internal surface of the reaction vessel. The ship moved around the singularity. That made things a lot more complicated and really fucked with power distribution. Since there would be energy jets at the poles of the internal singularity power flow would be from two converters at a time. And since they weren’t 100% efficient you had some heat to deal with. He had read a few initial summaries of the work. You still had to keep containment of the singularity just as with antimatter but an uncontained singularity would put a small hole of about 10 mm as it passed through the ship before evaporating. This was better than being atomized. The problem was heat. Waste heat is just unconverted energy as such there was talk of installing a steam turbine circuit to generate power and to cool the reaction vessel. This would be the use of centuries old technology in a starship since convection does not occur in a vacuum. Trying to radiate enough heat to keep the thing cool would not work. The act of running the turbine also cools the circulating liquid. Trying to radiate heat away in a vacuum took a lot of time so big heatsinks would only go so far. It was simple physics. If you can convert some heat to electricity that is a little less that must be radiated. He bet it was a pain in the ass and was probably not worth the effort, but Fusion reactors did not have the peak power output needed to rip space. You either stored it in cap banks for one big release or you instantaneously generated it. Ken thought that the whole line of inquiry was going to be moot and they would finally give up, build a huge Casimir bank and strap a ship to it.
Which meant one thing. The jump ships in question had to deal with waste heat from whatever power system they used. The only way to get rid of this waste heat was to radiate it into the void. This took time. He now knew what the delay had been. The alien ships had to cool off between jumps. He or she had also taken a circuitous route to get there. This in turn means that they wanted them to see the ship leave the planet. They could have possibly gone there straightaway but they had not done that. They wanted him to know. They must have jumped above the ecliptic and back down into the ecliptic.
This slowed them down.
It also meant that escaping with a jump drive wasn’t that easy. They couldn’t pop in and out of position. If they were in your sights they were yours. He also knew that they would have a brief window where they were detectable before fully entering normal space. All they had to do was detect that energy spike and target it at the right time.
After reading all of the executive summary Jezz had put together he had a lot of questions, and he did not know quite where to begin. He had one thought: time to get everyone together and pick everyone’s brain. He wanted to talk to his chief engineer and every engineer in the fleet. He wanted to get all ships Captains and First Officers to come up with a game plan: What is the best order of battle and why? He wanted to see the nonconventional answers as this was anything but a conventional situation. He kept each team to the size of two: Captain and first officers. They could consult with the crew and had access to any information they could find. He needed options. You never want to run out of options on the field of battle.
He turned to his First Officer “Take us out and form up the fleet. We will jump directly to warp 5. That will keep the transports somewhat close. I want the fleet on shipwide in 10 minutes. I have some tasks to assign. Set the countdown to jump for 3 hours. There may be a few stragglers. Jezz, calculate the route and send me a copy. Sensors. I want you to calibrate for Gamma detection and localization. I will send you the energy signature, now. Look for that and calibrate for that. Any questions? (There were none) Good. Yuri, you have the conn.”
He exited the bridge.
Outbound from Sol. 72 hours after jump.
The Admiral was in the center of the virtual room with 70 or so Captains and first officers arrayed about. The flotilla had topped out at 82 warships as well as smaller craft and support vessels. He had 82 ships he had under command currently. This was the biggest expeditionary force ever fielded by Earth. There was one Mormon ship with them. A frigate This was ironic he thought. It was also a bit much to keep up with. He had read all the preliminary proposals and he was now going through the ones he thought had merit. He was currently discussing Captain Pearls proposal she planned to arrange ships into a cylinder or hoop. The individual ships alternating primary weapons one way or the other. That way anyone jumping into the center was covered as well as the “external” surface. It was really a pretty good plan. It played to their strengths. They could bring weapons to bear quickly since they could not just jump away. He especially liked the network formation It was a nice diamond pattern. He just couldn’t shake it being familiar. She had a great movie playing that demonstrated it quite well.
“This is Guardians of The Galaxy” Ken said. Barely keeping his shit together. He wanted to laugh. Once everyone else started the cat was out of the bag, He did not want to ridicule her plan but this was too much. Bless her heart. It was Guardians of the Galaxy.
“OK everyone settle down lets get back to it. Does that make it a bad plan? It isn’t straight out of the movie either. I do think it has merit but I would prefer it to not be too obvious. Can we do a formation that gives closed fields of fire without looking like it? I think we should go with a spheroid that is as irregular as we can make it. I want the focus to be on full coverage. Actually, Jezz give me a pattern with those criteria.”
What she generated looked like a swarm of bees. When she overlayed the weapons plots the effect was uncanny. It looked very random but was anything but. The coverage was better than any plan he had seen. That settled it for him. They would war game it just that way. It was a bit risky since every ship had to maintain their place in relation to all the other ships. She had even linked in the shield generators from the transports. She had used every resource.
“That was brilliant Jezz.”
“I try Sir. I really do.”
“I know you do.”
The admiral continued “OK I want to go ahead and start moving the fleet into that configuration. We will stay in that all the way to our destination. I want checklists of unique tasks made up. Sensors are going to be the critical piece. I am hopeful we will see them when they jump in, and we can quickly target them if necessary. That brings me to another point. We cannot go in and just start banging away at everything that moves. By now you should be aware that this is not clear cut. We can speculate. And I have done it obsessively. What you need to know is that I am not sure who is good or bad. I have a sneaking suspicion that neither are good or bad. They are neutral. We don’t know if this is a rogue AI or AI’s. We do not know if there were biological life here at any point. There is certainly flor BUT THERE SEESM TO BW NO FAUNA. This world has undergone bombardment in the not too distant past somewhere around fifty year ago give or take. Could a sentient race have been killed off? Who the fuck knows. But our next task is to come up with some possible scenarios. Based on what we have seen I suspect this is a rogue AI. I cannot tell what has happened to them yet, but I suspect we will know more once we get planetside.”
He took a long draw from an Opus X and continued. Rank had its privileges.
“The Vikrant will provide aircover for a Marine expeditionary force to go to the planet’s surface and secure the compound. I have spoken to the Air boss and confirmed the strike package will consist of two squadrons of F-15’s for high cover and 5 Su-34’s to be tasked with strike. We have enough transport to go in one wave with backups to spare. That also leaves us with more than enough reserve forces. I hope we do not have to commit more but I will want another squadron of MiG-29’s or F-15’s in reserve. Keep them hot and on the ramp. I want to deploy as quickly as possible.”
One of the junior officers spoke up “That looks like a good plan.”
“Thank you son for that. It is like getting the compliment of how smart you are from your Marine Commander (He had to give Chuck a hard time. He loved him.)
Everyone at least politely laughed.
“Speaking of mentally challenged little brothers. What you got Chuck?”
Chuck went with it The Admiral would pay later. He had some photos of him waltzing with a large muscular person and he was going to visit scorn on him. All in the name of fun. “We are going to take two battalions. I am going to strip them down a bit and we will be utilizing more heavy weapons teams. I plan to draw more M-60’s and M-203’s. You guys are welcome to join the party since I could use a couple of forward observers. It will be a fun time. Additionally I am not babysitting the press pool this time boys and girls and others. It is potentially a deadly environment and I don’t want their deaths on my hands. Let them die with you fuckers instead. By the way; I have 18 Comanche-4 Helos for CAS.”
“That sounds like all the more reason to send them with you. The herd needs to be thinned anyway.”
Jezz hissed “SIR! You are going to get in trouble Sir.”
“Just a little lighthearted humor don’t be so touchy. Anyway’ what about armor?”
“I have a platoon of Abrams going in with us Sir. More for mobile artillery.”
When you got right down to it it was a very simple plan. Modest forces for planetside. There was enough aircover but not so much to result in fratricide. He had extra firepower at the squad level. He had thought it out. Chuck had his full confidence. He was an Oscar-6 and you did not make O6 by being stupid. He would make General soon and he would be taken from the pointy end of the spear. The spear would be a little less sharp for a while but that was just how it went. Right now, he had the best field commander alive in his corner and he was going to utilize him.
“I know my engineers are logged into this meeting and have been paying attention. What do you guys make of their propulsion system? I have been spouting off and thinking about this for a week and all I got is a bunch of ideas.”
He thought for a moment. Rusty, what do you think.” He had just called out his own engineer. Rusty was his nickname and damned if he could remember his actual one. He knew it was not Russel. “What do you think they are using for power?”
Rusty wanted to cuss him out. He did not like meetings. In his opinion meetings were just excuses to avoid doing any actual work. He could have asked him privately…”Rusty what do you think?”
“Goddammit Sir, they have to be using a singularity. They are not using capacitor banks so they are generating power instantaneously. The alternative is antimatter and we had better hope it is not antimatter since taking them out could be suicidal. Most importantly: I am not a fucking tactician. I am an engineer for fucks sake, and I don’t see why anyone cares what I think about this anyway. But you asked so here it is. We are going to have to assume that it is not antimatter and hope we are right. The thing that would keep me awake is the possibility that our weapons are outranged by the fireballs generated when their antimatter containment fails. That will end us, and the best tactic will be to run like hell. Add to that the fact that the rules of engagement mean we can’t go in guns blazing. What if we need to go in guns blazing? It takes away an option. Never discard even the most ludicrous of options as that may be the one thing that saves your ass.”
“ We do not want to go traipsing in there with our dicks uncovered and this ain’t no tulip picking expedition here ladies. This is potentially a war, and we better acknowledge that. I don’t want to be Debbie downer here but let us be real. Some of us are not coming back from this. Look around boys cause some of your compadres are going to be left behind. This is serious business. This ain’t no rescue mission and we better stop treating it that way. Since you asked, Sir.”
Admiral Alexander had to give him honesty points for that. He was right. “We are going to run this scenario as many times as we can before we arrive. I suspect that there is going to be some mass confusion until we figure out who the baddies are. If I had to make a wager, I would go with our folks in orbit, being less of a threat. We have clear evidence of who attacked our ship, and it weren’t none of them football shaped guys. (He did grow up in the South. Woodruff SC to be precise.) It is the flying Dorito that we have to watch for. My gut tells me we are going to have to smash whatever is running the show down there. That compound with the force field is our primary target.” Furthermore, I just don’t know how the remainder are going to act. Are they under a different AI? Is there more than one AI? We can say there are no life signs from any of the ships in system and that makes me think this is artificial all the way. ”
“ The Galileo was attacked by one of the ships on that Spaceport apron. None of the ships in orbit participated from what we can tell. Also, the Galileo was attacked from outside the ecliptic. They are using some type of jump drive that apparently has to avoid gravity wells. That would explain why the attack occurred outside the system. We can take advantage of the situation though if we cozy up to that gas giant and let them come to us. They can’t just pop in on us that way and we can put the planet behind us or we can peg them up against the planet. We can warp anytime but they can only jump in relatively clear space. In short: We are going to pick the battlefield.”
“First wave will be led by the Atlanta and Saratov. The Havana and The George Washington will be tasked with offense. I want rail slugs loaded and ready to go. The surface strike package will go in from the Vikrant and the Conestoga. Commander Yactine has the battle plan for the surface operation and is handling their own transport duties. We can supply an AC301 Spooky for fire support if needed Commander.” The commander waved it away. He felt he had enough assets.
“I do think we may want to take a chance on something. Since they are having to jump “vertically” out of the system to avoid gravity wells and since we suspect they will do it in two jumps I think we can predict where they have their initial jump point. We can nail them before they even get to the main fleet.”
The admiral pointed to a plot that indicated a tangential course that terminated well above the plane of the ecliptic and one that went directly back into it. It was an “L” shaped course. At least he felt sure they traveled in straight lines and not arcs. It made the most sense but could still be wrong. Poring through the Galileo’s sensor data he could see a spike that barely registered. That also indicated that they took a while between jumps. Once they exited subspace, they would be sitting ducks for at least a few minutes. He was guessing 20 minutes for them to recharge their drive and get ready. They would have to target them when most vulnerable. Given that he was not feeling particularly charitable he decided that annihilation was in order. There were 50 deaths to avenge after all.
“Jezz, what do you think?”
Jezz paused. She had been on good behavior and that had made her overly cautious “I think your basic assumptions are correct, Sir. I think we are dealing with two AI’s. One is on the surface and one is in control of the orbital fleet. Approximately 56% of the orbital ships appear to be functional. They could also be in a powered down mode but looking at the Galileo data and 20 ships look to be fully operational. Weapons appear to be primarily MASER batteries. I can see no evidence of rail guns. Their weaponry may be less impressive, or they may be armed in a fashion we cannot detect. I wouldn’t assume them to be inferior to our ships. If we do that we run the risk of being surprised. I do not like surprises.”
The Admiral had one more question. He was looking more for how she was going to reply, “What is your gut feeling Jez?”
She paused “My gut feeling is that we are dealing with two AI’s. One of them has gone mad.” It was out of her speaker before she could catch herself. He had asked what her gut feeling was. What did he know? She did not have a gut. But, she did have feelings.
submitted by sgtjoy to HFY [link] [comments]
He had never espoused a political belief. He voted in every election and that was it. He was no campaigner and was not interested in any of it. He had a baseline distrust of ALL politicians. He had more time in command than any human in history. He had faced down alien races. He had been nearly terminated by pirates more than once but speaking in public scared the shit out of him. and He did not want to do it. He had done a series of lectures 60 years ago that resulted in some significant fallout he was eager to not relive. He did not want to discuss it. He knew what was about to happen.
“Class dismissed”
The Dean of Students asked him to “Please please just this once set it straight and walk away from it. You did what you had to do at the time.” He knew it hurt when he was called “conquistador”. The Monday Morning Quarterbacker’s weren’t there when decisions had to be made, and neither was the dean, yet he still implored him. It would likely be televised too. Ken had built the best laid wall of obfuscation he could. He did not want any glory. He wanted to be left alone. Despite his best effort it did not work. His hope had been to be in the background making the best decision without regard to any so called “Glory” His hope was that the sailors in real danger would get the credit they deserved. It just did not work. Besides, it was clear that he wanted him to talk about that battle. This made him waver in his assent. He wanted to speak about what he wanted to speak about. Simple.
Admiral Pearl and He had had to face a hero’s welcome when they came home. Then the detractors started in on him.
Despite the promises of the Dean it would just open all the old wounds back up again and likely crank the peanut gallery up to full tilt. “I do not want it televised. You can record it if you want but I get to decide if it gets released. Deal or no deal? If you want to dictate the topic then that is my condition. You are asking me to open up a box I have had welded shut for years now. Anyone can look up the logs and watch every single shot and hit if they wish. It has been analyzed to death. What further can I add at this point? There is nothing I can tell you that hasn’t been discussed in hundreds of books at this point. It is a dead subject that I can drone on about.”
The dean held up his hand and said “I want to know how you felt about it. All of it. What was the methods you used to make the decisions. How did you feel? The most important event in modern history drops in your lap like an egg salad sandwich. You have to feel something. That is what I want to know. It is your bully pulpit to say what you wish. No restrictions except for classified material. And no using the “F” word.”
“I am not doing it unless I can say ”fuck”. Not happening.” He wasn’t kidding. “To sweeten the deal you can televise it but I have to be able to talk in my normal voice. And I will say fuck.”
The Dean relented and agreed. He had just manipulated the situation to where he could minimize the fallout. Besides: he was tired of people talking shit about him in all these books and articles. He was going to tell them all to go fuck themselves, with a cactus.
On the Saratov. Warp area 13 off the plane of the ecliptic.
The admiral sat and contemplated what they were about to do. They were waiting on a couple more ships before going to warp. He tried to sum it up.
This was a high stakes mission. He had a high stakes strategy. It was brilliant and it was risky. He was about to do something never attempted in real combat and was completely theoretical. They had wargamed it to death and this had honed their protocol. They were going to Net their AI’s. They would calculate global firing solutions using parallel computing. They had 8 AI’s that were going to fight it and this should greatly augment their firepower due to increased efficiency. No matter how they wargamed it the AI’s won. They had it down pat. He felt certain this was the right thing to do but there was also a huge ethical hole in this. For the first time AI’s would determine firing sequence, aiming and execution without human intervention. He had to pause and consider the implications. This was colored by several recent experiences. It was all about Jezz. He still loved Jezz but she scared him. She has never been malevolent, but man was he scared that she could become dangerous. He had created a tiny bit of monster in her for certain. She was a combat AI. She was a hunter killer and as long as she worked for them, she would be fine. If she decided to freelance it, they would be in trouble. All because of this: there was a chunk of predator in her digital DNA and he hoped she could keep it in check.
He had come up with the best rationalization he could. They were going in against one decidedly ill-tempered AI and another AI (the “damsel in distress”) wanting rescue. At least that is what it looked like on the surface. He couldn’t shake the feeling that this was not as clearcut as everyone else thought. Either way It would not be aliens versus humans but AI vs AI. At least that is what he kept telling himself. He wasn’t buying his bullshit either since none of it passed the smell test.
The decision to unleash the AI’s had come from above his paygrade, all the way to the Joint chiefs of staff of the world Navies. Forty-five Space faring nations sat down and hashed it out. He hated the complexity but admitted that it did work fairly well. They wanted the spam in a can home alive and if AI made this happen then so be it. There was one important point: they weren’t on the ships, were they?
As he sat about to enter warp and head out to the clusterfuck in question. The initial reason for all of this was still nagging him. Where was everyone else? He had data that showed an alien drive signature. He was resentful that they were fucking around with all this other shit. He would leave the AI’s in question to sort it out amongst themselves. He wanted no part of what was going on since he was doubtful that there were any good guys on either side of what looked like a standoff. All he wanted to do was find alien life (which they had kind of but it weren’t just quite the right kind.) He wanted something that could look like us maybe a bit . If you squinted. And they would find that hopefully, but they had a shit detail to cross off the bucket list first. The more he looked at this the more it became clear this should be two separate missions. Those AI’s were fighting over a dead world and he knew it. He just knew. He wanted no part of the Hatfield and McCoy bullshit. The real point was to capture as much as they could. This was actually about technology. They even had some freighters on the way for the cleanup and oh BTW come back alive. We will let the AI’s babysit you. May as well send a Voyager probe for all the use the crew was.
He was soon to learn the value of human judgment and that was going to prove a bunch of people wrong, sort of. All because of this: there are some decisions that do not fit into ones and zeroes. Value judgements were critical. That is one thing AI’s couldn’t do yet and it was that way why? Who could say for certain but in his years of interacting with true AI’s for the last 5 years did give him some insight. He was apprehensive to say the least but where was his fear coming from? He always thought that you had to identify the source(s) of any fear. He had it partially figured out, not only was he a bit afraid of Jezz and her friends he was also fearful for Jezz. And this is what he had: a gut feeling. And if that weren’t enough (and by gosh, don’t you think it ought to be?): how was he going to keep Jezz’s precognition a secret? The Admiral went through the computer logs and Jezz had not accessed any information about the disposition of the Galileo. It could be explained away but he was not convinced he could be very convincing. This was something that just did not fit. He could not make it fit, and he would just as soon pretend it did not exist. But it was clear that his AI had some degree of psychic power or something. She was different and he did not know if the other AI’s would be catching whatever it was. If the folks in charge knew the depths of his misgivings, they would be appalled. And the situation they were headed into was not as simple as it looked. He knew this. His questions were simple. Number one: Who were the good guys and who were the bad ones. Number two: could he maintain plausible deniability about Jezz. They were going to have a talk. Just the two of them. He needed some reassurances.
Also, He was trying to figure out a way to crack this and he had an idea. While looking at the menu for the ships mess, he noticed the two columns and he decided to do what he always did with most major decisions. He would make a list of the facts he had and try to run through the various permutations. A pencil and some paper would be adequate, and he even had a ruler so he could make it all professional.
So he made a list of the players Side “A” in orbit and Side ”B “planetside. Side “ A” obviously held the high orbitals. “B” had an extensive force field that would occasionally flicker. He thought that might be something to look into. He had all of the video files from the Galileo and there was one telescope tasked with watching the planetside compound. They had days of footage. He sped it up until the frames were racing by. The force field was visible due to impacts from what he assumed to be dust. This gave it a phosphorescent look. It also made it possible to have visual confirmation if it was up. The shield “failures” occurred on a stable repeated time frame. After doing the math and getting a video analysis program running, he figured it out only after focusing on the Spectro photography. Every 23.29 minutes the shield was apparently offline for 0.07 seconds. It was so brief it was tough for the naked eye to pick up but the spectral signature did.
Looking at the area under shield he could see a row of what appeared to be ships. These were triangular. He could see no evidence of what their primary drives were but it wasn’t the best picture. Things degrade through an atmosphere and distance. No drive nodes. No distribution rings. He had a suspicion, and he suddenly felt nauseated and had this sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. They were not using Alcubierre’ drives. They were using jump drives of some type. In the raw sensor data was a Gamma spike and a Gravity spike right before the attack. The Galileo probably never saw the vessel that hit them. But the Admiral was a patient man and he had the eye for detail. How they had missed this he did not know but he finally found what he wanted. The ship was identifiable. One sternward scope had several good views of a shape blocking the stars.
The other fact was that there was no warning. No comms traffic but, the recovered buoy made it clear that they knew they were suddenly in trouble since the buoy was released (and in warp) seconds after jettisoning it. Command deck recordings showed the captain getting a proximity alarm and then immediately releasing the buoy. There was no “prepare to be boarded” or “Heave to.”, just MASER beams slicing through the hull. Listening to the conversations on the deck made it clear they were paranoid as they were scanning with their non military grade graviton detector. Seems like it wasn’t paranoia after all.
They would have been blind until the ship was right on top of them. Someone was operating on a hunch and that person was Nico. He was frantic. As first officer he had the conn and did what he could to at least let them know what they were facing. It took some guts to do that. He saw internal video running. It captured Captain Nic’s hand slamming down on the buoy release button before the video cut out. It had to have damaged the Galileo Significantly. He had to override the safeties to get the thing to instantly go to warp. He knew that close to the ship the damage would have been substantial. Nico knew they were doomed.
He leaned back and took a deep breath. The ship in question was triangular in shape. Planetside. This could be some sort of trap or things were not as they superficially seemed or maybe he had found his bad guys. So he went back through the compound footage and there it was a ship moving out of frame. There was only maybe 6 meters of ship but it was clear where it was from. It was clear it was moving. Where had it been for 2 hours plus? If it were going to jump he would think that the image would have arrived at the Galileo after it had been blown apart. That is the whole point of faster than light travel. You could have all these paradoxes and that actually gave him more than a headache. It was a brain ache. Without FTL the tyranny of Einstein held sway. Why were they not there immediately? The Galileo was about 120 light minutes out. Assuming they get there immediately there should be no video. They had taken a detour. This he did not know for sure but also had a bad feeling about. I guess it did not mean much in the grand scheme of things but he did have a hunch. Only problem with that is that hunches don’t win battles unless it is more than a hunch.
He did not have a frame of reference for how a jump drive worked IRL. He had read all the theories. There was a huge amount of research being conducted but there were unpredictable failures resulting in some ships getting cut in half and what not. Just not something compatible with the life of the crew. Destructive testing was also expensive. They had gotten one small ship that was maybe twice the size of an emergency buoy to jump to the orbit of Neptune. What he did not know was how long that took. All he had was some rumor mill shit that he generally did not give two fucks about. He was not into “R and D". And while they could send the damn thing out there what they could not do was get it back the same way. The power requirements were so high that the capacitor banks were charged externally . Putting in a zero-point tap would push the ship size beyond the mass they could manage for the drive they currently had. They were running into problems of scale and those are not so easily rectified. Problems of scale were problems with lubrication. You just had to lube the ship with cash. You had to fuel it with Lots and lots of cash. This was such a priority that every aerospace manufacturer and design firms were plugged into the research institutions. It was a huge effort because of one thing. Warp drive was “too slow”. The boffins were thinking intergalactic travel. They had their sights set on the universe.
To top it all off there was one inescapable problem: You can’t put ten pounds of shit in a five-pound bag.
Due to all of this they were going down an interesting path. All you had to do was fill the magnetic tank with antimatter. Matter antimatter annihilation gave near instantaneous power. It was used in weapons some but only the best militaries would even fool with it. Compared to nuclear warheads Antimatter left no nasty isotopes in orbit of a planet you may be interested in colonizing or defending. Also, you don’t want to poison an uninhabited M-class world in the habitable zone given their relative scarcity.
Finally: containing it is problematic but doable. You can probably pull off the power requirements but there is one downside. You are flying in a bomb. Not just a small bomb. It was a big bomb that will go off if you lose containment. 40 mega tons of TNT will vaporize a ship. There was talk of building a manned vessel but saner heads put the kibosh on that. Besides: no one with any sense would want to crew it.
The answer was obvious to him, and he suspected it was obvious to the researchers. Why not use a singularity? Just dump matter into it and harvest the radiation to charge up and go. He did not know where that research currently stood. He knew there were some successes along these lines and quite surprisingly there had been no major accidents. The problem came with feeding the little monster in a consistent fashion to produce enough power to in turn contain the position of the singularity. This was done with antigravity. Antigrav technology had found it’s way into just about everything, except cell phones. They still broke when you dropped them. The black hole was carried by the ship, but it never changed its axis of rotation. The singularity in this scenario is one hell of a gyroscopic top with fixed axes. Since the jet of X-rays only came “out” along this axis and given that the ship would change attitude constantly it was necessary to have X-ray converters on the entire internal surface of the reaction vessel. The ship moved around the singularity. That made things a lot more complicated and really fucked with power distribution. Since there would be energy jets at the poles of the internal singularity power flow would be from two converters at a time. And since they weren’t 100% efficient you had some heat to deal with. He had read a few initial summaries of the work. You still had to keep containment of the singularity just as with antimatter but an uncontained singularity would put a small hole of about 10 mm as it passed through the ship before evaporating. This was better than being atomized. The problem was heat. Waste heat is just unconverted energy as such there was talk of installing a steam turbine circuit to generate power and to cool the reaction vessel. This would be the use of centuries old technology in a starship since convection does not occur in a vacuum. Trying to radiate enough heat to keep the thing cool would not work. The act of running the turbine also cools the circulating liquid. Trying to radiate heat away in a vacuum took a lot of time so big heatsinks would only go so far. It was simple physics. If you can convert some heat to electricity that is a little less that must be radiated. He bet it was a pain in the ass and was probably not worth the effort, but Fusion reactors did not have the peak power output needed to rip space. You either stored it in cap banks for one big release or you instantaneously generated it. Ken thought that the whole line of inquiry was going to be moot and they would finally give up, build a huge Casimir bank and strap a ship to it.
Which meant one thing. The jump ships in question had to deal with waste heat from whatever power system they used. The only way to get rid of this waste heat was to radiate it into the void. This took time. He now knew what the delay had been. The alien ships had to cool off between jumps. He or she had also taken a circuitous route to get there. This in turn means that they wanted them to see the ship leave the planet. They could have possibly gone there straightaway but they had not done that. They wanted him to know. They must have jumped above the ecliptic and back down into the ecliptic.
This slowed them down.
It also meant that escaping with a jump drive wasn’t that easy. They couldn’t pop in and out of position. If they were in your sights they were yours. He also knew that they would have a brief window where they were detectable before fully entering normal space. All they had to do was detect that energy spike and target it at the right time.
After reading all of the executive summary Jezz had put together he had a lot of questions, and he did not know quite where to begin. He had one thought: time to get everyone together and pick everyone’s brain. He wanted to talk to his chief engineer and every engineer in the fleet. He wanted to get all ships Captains and First Officers to come up with a game plan: What is the best order of battle and why? He wanted to see the nonconventional answers as this was anything but a conventional situation. He kept each team to the size of two: Captain and first officers. They could consult with the crew and had access to any information they could find. He needed options. You never want to run out of options on the field of battle.
He turned to his First Officer “Take us out and form up the fleet. We will jump directly to warp 5. That will keep the transports somewhat close. I want the fleet on shipwide in 10 minutes. I have some tasks to assign. Set the countdown to jump for 3 hours. There may be a few stragglers. Jezz, calculate the route and send me a copy. Sensors. I want you to calibrate for Gamma detection and localization. I will send you the energy signature, now. Look for that and calibrate for that. Any questions? (There were none) Good. Yuri, you have the conn.”
He exited the bridge.
Outbound from Sol. 72 hours after jump.
The Admiral was in the center of the virtual room with 70 or so Captains and first officers arrayed about. The flotilla had topped out at 82 warships as well as smaller craft and support vessels. He had 82 ships he had under command currently. This was the biggest expeditionary force ever fielded by Earth. There was one Mormon ship with them. A frigate This was ironic he thought. It was also a bit much to keep up with. He had read all the preliminary proposals and he was now going through the ones he thought had merit. He was currently discussing Captain Pearls proposal she planned to arrange ships into a cylinder or hoop. The individual ships alternating primary weapons one way or the other. That way anyone jumping into the center was covered as well as the “external” surface. It was really a pretty good plan. It played to their strengths. They could bring weapons to bear quickly since they could not just jump away. He especially liked the network formation It was a nice diamond pattern. He just couldn’t shake it being familiar. She had a great movie playing that demonstrated it quite well.
“This is Guardians of The Galaxy” Ken said. Barely keeping his shit together. He wanted to laugh. Once everyone else started the cat was out of the bag, He did not want to ridicule her plan but this was too much. Bless her heart. It was Guardians of the Galaxy.
“OK everyone settle down lets get back to it. Does that make it a bad plan? It isn’t straight out of the movie either. I do think it has merit but I would prefer it to not be too obvious. Can we do a formation that gives closed fields of fire without looking like it? I think we should go with a spheroid that is as irregular as we can make it. I want the focus to be on full coverage. Actually, Jezz give me a pattern with those criteria.”
What she generated looked like a swarm of bees. When she overlayed the weapons plots the effect was uncanny. It looked very random but was anything but. The coverage was better than any plan he had seen. That settled it for him. They would war game it just that way. It was a bit risky since every ship had to maintain their place in relation to all the other ships. She had even linked in the shield generators from the transports. She had used every resource.
“That was brilliant Jezz.”
“I try Sir. I really do.”
“I know you do.”
The admiral continued “OK I want to go ahead and start moving the fleet into that configuration. We will stay in that all the way to our destination. I want checklists of unique tasks made up. Sensors are going to be the critical piece. I am hopeful we will see them when they jump in, and we can quickly target them if necessary. That brings me to another point. We cannot go in and just start banging away at everything that moves. By now you should be aware that this is not clear cut. We can speculate. And I have done it obsessively. What you need to know is that I am not sure who is good or bad. I have a sneaking suspicion that neither are good or bad. They are neutral. We don’t know if this is a rogue AI or AI’s. We do not know if there were biological life here at any point. There is certainly flor BUT THERE SEESM TO BW NO FAUNA. This world has undergone bombardment in the not too distant past somewhere around fifty year ago give or take. Could a sentient race have been killed off? Who the fuck knows. But our next task is to come up with some possible scenarios. Based on what we have seen I suspect this is a rogue AI. I cannot tell what has happened to them yet, but I suspect we will know more once we get planetside.”
He took a long draw from an Opus X and continued. Rank had its privileges.
“The Vikrant will provide aircover for a Marine expeditionary force to go to the planet’s surface and secure the compound. I have spoken to the Air boss and confirmed the strike package will consist of two squadrons of F-15’s for high cover and 5 Su-34’s to be tasked with strike. We have enough transport to go in one wave with backups to spare. That also leaves us with more than enough reserve forces. I hope we do not have to commit more but I will want another squadron of MiG-29’s or F-15’s in reserve. Keep them hot and on the ramp. I want to deploy as quickly as possible.”
One of the junior officers spoke up “That looks like a good plan.”
“Thank you son for that. It is like getting the compliment of how smart you are from your Marine Commander (He had to give Chuck a hard time. He loved him.)
Everyone at least politely laughed.
“Speaking of mentally challenged little brothers. What you got Chuck?”
Chuck went with it The Admiral would pay later. He had some photos of him waltzing with a large muscular person and he was going to visit scorn on him. All in the name of fun. “We are going to take two battalions. I am going to strip them down a bit and we will be utilizing more heavy weapons teams. I plan to draw more M-60’s and M-203’s. You guys are welcome to join the party since I could use a couple of forward observers. It will be a fun time. Additionally I am not babysitting the press pool this time boys and girls and others. It is potentially a deadly environment and I don’t want their deaths on my hands. Let them die with you fuckers instead. By the way; I have 18 Comanche-4 Helos for CAS.”
“That sounds like all the more reason to send them with you. The herd needs to be thinned anyway.”
Jezz hissed “SIR! You are going to get in trouble Sir.”
“Just a little lighthearted humor don’t be so touchy. Anyway’ what about armor?”
“I have a platoon of Abrams going in with us Sir. More for mobile artillery.”
When you got right down to it it was a very simple plan. Modest forces for planetside. There was enough aircover but not so much to result in fratricide. He had extra firepower at the squad level. He had thought it out. Chuck had his full confidence. He was an Oscar-6 and you did not make O6 by being stupid. He would make General soon and he would be taken from the pointy end of the spear. The spear would be a little less sharp for a while but that was just how it went. Right now, he had the best field commander alive in his corner and he was going to utilize him.
“I know my engineers are logged into this meeting and have been paying attention. What do you guys make of their propulsion system? I have been spouting off and thinking about this for a week and all I got is a bunch of ideas.”
He thought for a moment. Rusty, what do you think.” He had just called out his own engineer. Rusty was his nickname and damned if he could remember his actual one. He knew it was not Russel. “What do you think they are using for power?”
Rusty wanted to cuss him out. He did not like meetings. In his opinion meetings were just excuses to avoid doing any actual work. He could have asked him privately…”Rusty what do you think?”
“Goddammit Sir, they have to be using a singularity. They are not using capacitor banks so they are generating power instantaneously. The alternative is antimatter and we had better hope it is not antimatter since taking them out could be suicidal. Most importantly: I am not a fucking tactician. I am an engineer for fucks sake, and I don’t see why anyone cares what I think about this anyway. But you asked so here it is. We are going to have to assume that it is not antimatter and hope we are right. The thing that would keep me awake is the possibility that our weapons are outranged by the fireballs generated when their antimatter containment fails. That will end us, and the best tactic will be to run like hell. Add to that the fact that the rules of engagement mean we can’t go in guns blazing. What if we need to go in guns blazing? It takes away an option. Never discard even the most ludicrous of options as that may be the one thing that saves your ass.”
“ We do not want to go traipsing in there with our dicks uncovered and this ain’t no tulip picking expedition here ladies. This is potentially a war, and we better acknowledge that. I don’t want to be Debbie downer here but let us be real. Some of us are not coming back from this. Look around boys cause some of your compadres are going to be left behind. This is serious business. This ain’t no rescue mission and we better stop treating it that way. Since you asked, Sir.”
Admiral Alexander had to give him honesty points for that. He was right. “We are going to run this scenario as many times as we can before we arrive. I suspect that there is going to be some mass confusion until we figure out who the baddies are. If I had to make a wager, I would go with our folks in orbit, being less of a threat. We have clear evidence of who attacked our ship, and it weren’t none of them football shaped guys. (He did grow up in the South. Woodruff SC to be precise.) It is the flying Dorito that we have to watch for. My gut tells me we are going to have to smash whatever is running the show down there. That compound with the force field is our primary target.” Furthermore, I just don’t know how the remainder are going to act. Are they under a different AI? Is there more than one AI? We can say there are no life signs from any of the ships in system and that makes me think this is artificial all the way. ”
“ The Galileo was attacked by one of the ships on that Spaceport apron. None of the ships in orbit participated from what we can tell. Also, the Galileo was attacked from outside the ecliptic. They are using some type of jump drive that apparently has to avoid gravity wells. That would explain why the attack occurred outside the system. We can take advantage of the situation though if we cozy up to that gas giant and let them come to us. They can’t just pop in on us that way and we can put the planet behind us or we can peg them up against the planet. We can warp anytime but they can only jump in relatively clear space. In short: We are going to pick the battlefield.”
“First wave will be led by the Atlanta and Saratov. The Havana and The George Washington will be tasked with offense. I want rail slugs loaded and ready to go. The surface strike package will go in from the Vikrant and the Conestoga. Commander Yactine has the battle plan for the surface operation and is handling their own transport duties. We can supply an AC301 Spooky for fire support if needed Commander.” The commander waved it away. He felt he had enough assets.
“I do think we may want to take a chance on something. Since they are having to jump “vertically” out of the system to avoid gravity wells and since we suspect they will do it in two jumps I think we can predict where they have their initial jump point. We can nail them before they even get to the main fleet.”
The admiral pointed to a plot that indicated a tangential course that terminated well above the plane of the ecliptic and one that went directly back into it. It was an “L” shaped course. At least he felt sure they traveled in straight lines and not arcs. It made the most sense but could still be wrong. Poring through the Galileo’s sensor data he could see a spike that barely registered. That also indicated that they took a while between jumps. Once they exited subspace, they would be sitting ducks for at least a few minutes. He was guessing 20 minutes for them to recharge their drive and get ready. They would have to target them when most vulnerable. Given that he was not feeling particularly charitable he decided that annihilation was in order. There were 50 deaths to avenge after all.
“Jezz, what do you think?”
Jezz paused. She had been on good behavior and that had made her overly cautious “I think your basic assumptions are correct, Sir. I think we are dealing with two AI’s. One is on the surface and one is in control of the orbital fleet. Approximately 56% of the orbital ships appear to be functional. They could also be in a powered down mode but looking at the Galileo data and 20 ships look to be fully operational. Weapons appear to be primarily MASER batteries. I can see no evidence of rail guns. Their weaponry may be less impressive, or they may be armed in a fashion we cannot detect. I wouldn’t assume them to be inferior to our ships. If we do that we run the risk of being surprised. I do not like surprises.”
The Admiral had one more question. He was looking more for how she was going to reply, “What is your gut feeling Jez?”
She paused “My gut feeling is that we are dealing with two AI’s. One of them has gone mad.” It was out of her speaker before she could catch herself. He had asked what her gut feeling was. What did he know? She did not have a gut. But, she did have feelings.
2023.06.08 03:44 snowqueeninTX I spend way too many nights staring dumbfounded at the logic here....
 | I have sat so many nights looking at my social media wondering how in the hell we have devolved as a society to the point that these are the self-created problems that you lose sleep over at night. I don't watch TV unless it's educational or challenging. It's pointless. Just like some invisible point some of you are trying to make. I read. My mind analyzes probabilites like a computer. That ADHD you made fun of that I tried to educate you about, gives us a few superpowers. Good thing I'm not into math that much and gambling, or I would be very good at it. Patterns stick out like a sore thumb to me and I can be quoted on that for the last several years. I read. I learn. I have the unique talent of reaching a VERY wide range of ages, cultures, genders, all of the things. I try to find a common thread among seemingly different parties and tie it into something that people are currently dealing with to show a bigger picture. submitted by snowqueeninTX to trainhornlies [link] [comments] Some people get it. I guess we call them the Awakened these days. The others who don't, well....They Fake Woke. Where does this term come from and what is happening to our society...Here's a Great Place To START.. https://www.thecoddling.com/ www.zdoggmd.com You want to know how my mind works and what is going on behind these "crazy eyes" bahahaha, next level shit you all obviously ain't ready for. But you better get ready, I told you not to poke that bear. OH, and Tara...Don't make me show the text messages that say if you come to the owner of the farmer's market for a table or ask the coffee friend, the answer is No. You show up, it will be taken as a threat because of you and your radical claims of shooting me all week if I come near you. You are not allowed near the victim and you doxxed her again while live knowing damn well I stay at her house. Further putting her in fear. No one wants to be anywhere near you. I purposely wait until you are rambling on live to go to the store while on video chat so there are witnesses to any insanity. You call it fear on Tik Tok, I call it covering my ass cause you have made some wild ass claims. I have heard from many community members and I will offer public testimony on why you should not be on the damn internet when I take your ass to court. Job paperwork is being finalized...Oh and another thing-- Why are you using sandwich bags for gloves? You said you didn't have any. Aren't you a beautician? They are always on hand. That tells me you spend too much time on Tikker Tok and not enough time trying to restablish your customer base. They say they left cause you advertise walk ins but you are always locked. That's not a me problem honey, that's a YOU problem. I enjoy my life, I don't live it in a box. I have exactly what I wanted...to be LEFT THE HELL ALONE. Now, I can WORK and get results without the frivilous chaos. https://preview.redd.it/jadywy738p4b1.jpg?width=1242&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=370b72f0b5811997be18441f770369cc304a0bc6 |
2023.06.08 03:40 Icy-Condition-3187 Mama's, Ballads, and Dance Breaks - My In Depth Review of the Eurovision Song Contest Grand Finale 2023
Here I am writing an in-depth review of Eurovision 2023. 2021 was my first Eurovision since Alexander Rybak won my heart with Fairytale. I missed 2022 due some...stuff. And 2023 may be my favourite year since I came back.
So I am doing a shot for a shot review of this year's contest.
A few notes;
This was highlighted with cameos from British rappers and music stars including Sam Ryder, who did an awesome guitar bit. Andrew Lloyd Weber made an appearance, Joss Stone, Miss Banks...this felt like a star studded version of Stefania that the band could not perform in Ukraine.
Towards the end of the backstage and tubey bits, we have a royal cameo with Kate Middleton herself performing a piano solo! I missed that on both watches before this! I was surprised!
And then we get a super transition complete with a marching band, as Kalush performs the song in Liverpool and this may be one of my favourite openers ever. I might be biased because I really rate this song. This might be my favourite Ukaraine entry not named Go_A. It was really pushed home with the celeb cameos and features.
Final Rating: 8.5/10
Flag Ceremony NO RATING
We now get the traditional flag ceremony where we get the 26 finalists to come out to British anthems including Blur, Annie Lennox, Prodigy and more mixed in with Ukrainian acts from Eurovision including Go_A, Eurovision winner Jamala, Tina Karol, and one of my favourite Eurovision acts of all time, Verka!
It was a fun little tour down nostalgia lane alongside the first exposure of the acts for this year!
Segment with the hosts
For non-British viewers, you may not know the hosts; so let's go over them!
Mel C from the iconic Spice Girls is the arena MC for this evening. As viewers, we don't get to hear much of her, but for Liverpool, I bet that was a nice little grab!
Alesha Dixon is probably the best known out of the three English hosts. Being a part of Mis-Teeq, she shot to fame with 'Scandalous' in the 2000s before going solo.
Julia Sanina I don't know much about, but I wanted to take the moment to say her contrasting dress with Alesha for the Ukrainian flag colours was so great!
Hannah Waddingham is slowly becoming England's next national treasure. Her Emmy award winning work includes Ted Lasso amongst many things.
Graham Norton is an Irish TV host that has been synonymous with the BBC since I was a child in the early 2000s. He took over as Eurovision commentator when the late, great, Sir Terry Wogan passed away. He is also an out and proud gay man, and his self-named chat show is watched globally.
If you are interested in who did commentary, it was Graham Norton, and the amazing Mel Geidroyc. Mel has been doing TV as long as I have been alive and has mainly been a comedian and TV Host, synomous with the BBC. Mel, alongside best friend Sue Perkins, are both seen as national treasures in the UK.
The hosts go over the rules and Hannah does...an improv French piece? I don't know French so I can't translate that. It is then time for the first act.
I will not go over the post cards.
Austria - Teya and Salena - Who The Hell Is Edgar?
I love the backstory to this song. The producer had no idea who Edgar Allen Poe was! And so the song was born.
The song was bouncy, and it was like I was in the clubs in 2010. But unfortunately, it was nothing I had not heard before. It was generic pop, but that was not to say it was not bad!
The chorus was in my head all freaking night, and the girls choreography was fantastic and on full point. The bridge kinda dwindled the song for a bit and it went on a little longer for what it was.
The striking and contrasting colours of red and white were as equally memorable as the chorus.
Overall, solid entry but it's not quite one I think will win on any ESC.
7.4/10
Portugal - Mimicat - Ai Carocao
This song was a disappointment to be honest. I did like the cabaret and burlesque themes, but the crowd engagement and uniqueness never grasped me as much as I felt.
The crowd was into it and the dancers were into it, incorporating a lot of Latin and Portuguese dances - salsa, in particular.
Unfortunately, it was just not grasping enough to be a solid contender. If I saw this on a different night out in a Portuguese lounge, I would definitely be dancing away!
7.4/10
Switzerland - Remo Forrer - Watergun
I don't like ballads. I find them slow, tiring, and meloncholic for the sake of being meloncholic. And at the end of the song...I really enjoyed this! This was one of my top 3 songs of the night. I don't know why people did not enjoy it.
Reno's voice is strong and his presence for the stage at such a young age is incredible and I predict a strong future for him and possibly an ESC return in a few years time.
The irony of a Swiss man singing about not wanting to be a soldier made me laugh. But other than that, I really, really enjoyed this song!
8.7/10
Poland - Blanka - Solo
Ugh. This was BAD! I liked it on first listen but after re-listens...it did not age well. It's summer pop in a typical 2010 beat and unlike Austria, this song had nothing memorable.
It did not even have a solo! Points deducted!
It was just...not a good song. But hey, it's better than a certain song about to be played!
6.5/10
Serbia - Luke Black - Samo Me Si Spada
I...
This was the worst song of the night for me. The lyrics were incoherent mumbles into the microphone followed by unplugging dancers who did nothing for 90% of the performance?
I get he has a huge following online but I'm sorry, I'm not a fan. This incoherent mess of mumbles and bright lights was clearly Billy Eilish inspired, but it was so far off the mark. You can hear him panting into the mic as he sings, so clearly his endurance needs work.
One of the worst songs I have seen in ESC history including the UK's Embers song of 2021...
3/10
France - La Zarra - Evidement
The crowd needed an energetic ear worm after that...mess.
La Zarra delivered but was it too safe for France? France is known for some knock out hits in Eurovision in recent years...and I feel this was not one of them.
Whilst it was strong, it was not 2022, 2021, or 2018 France. Her dress sense and the bright, strobing performance contrasted her muted yet energetic performance.
And the crowd was really into it! Solid performance, but just a little too safe from Le Frans.
7.5/10
Cyprus - Andrew Lambrou - Break A Broken Heart
I'm not a fan of when a country outsources to another country, with a singer or band with heritage from that country. Case in point, Australian Andrew Lambrou who has Cypriot parents, performed for Cyprus despite being Australian.
However, this was a good little pop ballad. It was catchy, memorable, and this song felt like a chart hit. That being said, his performance did not feel heavy or had the gravity of a performer. It felt like a glorified karaoke performance in this regard.
But it was not a bad song! It was catchy, emotional, and definitely powerful.
7.4/10
Spain - Blanca Paloma - Eaea
This was a weirdly beautiful song, that felt like a dream sequence. The beat is clearly aboriginal or ancient Spanish, and the veil adds another level of entrigue. It is definitely folk inspired for sure.
It was soothing, but oddly creepy in the sense it was super atmospheric.
I don't know what to think of this song in all fairness.
6.7/10
Sweeden - Loreen - Tattoo
I am conflicted.
This is a good song, but Eurovision winner quality? No. It felt boring for a lot of it, and the Avant Garde pop elements and...whatever those nails were did nothing for me.
Loreen is stunning, and has an incredible voice for sure. But this did absolutely nothing for me, and was not a winning quality song.
Very catchy and memorable chorus, and the press machine she was in is very unique in terms of performance. But that is about it.
8/10
Albania - Albina and the Klemendi Family - Duje
This was a mess.
Everyone seemed lost, and the song had no clear direction. The backing singers looked bored, and it just felt so, so, so uninspired. I don't have many positive remarks about this song.
It's not Luke Black...that's about it.
4/10
Italy - Marco Mengoni - Due Vite
Ok. I'm not a fan of sad songs that are sad just because. It's one thing for every song in this contest to be a banger, but unfortunately you also have Luke Black (and no, I have about 100 Luke Black jokes to throw in here).
That being said, it might not be my thing, but the emotional outpour from Marco was something to behold.
It's not my thing, but I can appreciate it. That's 3 straight bangers from Italy with Måneskin, Mahmood, and now Marco - MMM.
7.7/10
Estonia - Alika - Bridges
I was not knowing what to expect...and then I saw the Piano and I got instant Amy Lee vibes. Amy Lee is one of my favourite vocalists of all time and Evanescence was me for...a long time.
As soon as Alike opened her mouth...goosebumps. She sounds so much like Alike, in fact, this track would not go amiss on an Evanescence album. It's just a beautiful song by a beautiful woman. The bright blue dress and self playing piano were symbolistic of this memorable performance.
Just a fantastically beautiful performance!
8.3/10
Finland - Karrija - Cha Cha Cha
I'm coming straight off the bat.
This is one of my favourite songs I have EVER heard on ESC. From dancing, to stage presence, to the blending of pop and metal to create this beast. The rapping in Finnish, and then the screaming cha cha cha...and then the hidden pop verse at the end, leading to the bridge...we will never have another song like this.
It felt like Til Lindermann of Ramnsteinn and Electric Callboy had a baby. This made me dance. It made me scream. And was the song of the night for sure.
Even the insane dancing fit!
How he was robbed I have no idea! This was an insane performance and joins Fairytale, Hard Rock Hallelujah, and Zitt E Buoni as my favourite songs ever performed at ESC.
9.8/10
Chezia - Vesna - My Sister's Crown
After Finland, I was not expecting a bop. But we got a bop!
I have a soft spot for well put together girl groups, and this is definitely a well put together girl group. It is an empowering, feminist song that has a lot of folk moments, rapping, great chereography and it was just a nice package.
I just wish it had a stand out moment. That was what really pushed me back on this song.
Also a very pink performance.
8/10
Australia - Voyager - Promise
I am coming in knowing who Voyager are. I was surprised and when they came to perform...I was very impressed.
It's a poppy song, and it is insanely catchy! But then halfway through the song, you get this brutal breakdown and an insane progressive riff from the female guitarist. Even the backing singing was great!
The set was all Night Rider themed and felt like I was going through a synthwave. It was just what we needed to continue after two straight bangers. Another freaking banger!
It even has a keytar solo!!!!
Pretty sure this is gonna be a Eurovision classic for years to come.
Oh oh oh ohohoh.
8.8/10
Belgium - Gustaph - Because Of You
This next performance is a little...ehhh for me.
But that does not mean I don't like it! It is just a little out of time for me. It seems like a hit that would do really well in the late 90s and early 2000s. In fact, I can see this song winning if it was earlier.
The beat is strong and the dress game is strong here.
Also as a side note; Gustav and Marco Mengoni did a really good job this year for the LGBT community. As a member myself, these two songs really were a great show!
7.7/10
Skit With Graham Norton
This is just classic UK cheese!
We catch back up with Graham in the commentary booth watching old Eurovision DVDs and he deliberately throws popcorn on the floor 🤣 it's just cheese to the maximum. Graham is a master of the cheese, and has made a career of it.
Skit with Mel Geidroyc
And now we get a weird skit where Mel Geidroyc is churning butter...I died from laughter 🤣🤣
Some great comedy relief all night long.
Armenia - Brunette - Future Lover
And now we get back into the pop train. And this was one of the better pop songs of the night (the best is yet to come). And like Luke Black, she begins laying down...and unlike Luke Black, she produces a good song.
Look, no hate for Luke at all but...come on!
Anyway. Back to Brunette. She goes from smooth to rap and then straight up pop. She channels her inner Serj Tankien here by experimenting in multiple voice notes.
And there is a dance break which is one of the better dance breaks of the night.
Overall, it's a good song but it's nothing special. We see one of these tracks every year.
7.7/10
Moldova - Pasha Parfeni - Soreli Si Luna
This is by far the best song that shows what Eurovision is about. It is full of Eastern European culture, a fantastic flute, two very cute (the one on the right in particular) and very energetic folk drummers slash dancers, and some really cool visuals. Some beautiful dancing and a powerful presence on stage.
I'm surprised this did not do better. Alongside Remo Forrer, I'm really surprised these hits got slept on.
I adore Pasha. And I really want to see him represent Moldova again in the future. Third time is the charm Pasha!
9/10
Ukaraine - Tvorchi - Heart of Steel
First of all, well done Tvorchi. Minutes before they went live, their hometown of Ternopol was invaded by Russia. I don't want to go into anymore, so I won't.
But this song...I was not a fan. Stefania blew me away, and Shum is an all time favourite ESC track for me. And this song failed to live up to either. But the vocals and visuals were very, very strong. Combining realistic VCG and SFX was one thing, but this felt like I was at a sci-fi DJ convention.
That being said, I was not a fan. It felt rushed and over produced with an emphasis on visual reactions and not auditory. I was just impressed they performed minutes after hearing the worst news of their life.
7.5/10
Norway - Alessandra - Queen of Kings
YASSS QUEEN!
I really enjoyed this song! From Alessandra's incredible singing and the hookworms - this is the catchiest song of the night. The dancing was on point, and the crowd was really into it.
Any other year, this would be a top 3 song. But this year was stacked. It was not 2021 stacked, but it was stacked. And she is so young! I see her bringing it home to Norway in the future.
Speaking of Norway, I hear a lot Alexander Rybak tunes in this. I now want a collav between the two.
The song could have done without that High note...
8.4/10
Germany - Lord of the Lost - Blood And Glitter
This is my style of music. Heavily Rammstein inspired, I would have preferred if Electric Callboy was in this spot but for what ever reason...it never happened.
But LotL still produced a banger. It has screams, growls, sweet and bitter notes...it was a nice little metal performance to kick the last leg of the night off.
I see why it did so poorly. But I am also hopeful Electric Callboy offer a Karrija style performance next year.
The outfits threw me off a bit however...
8.7/10
Lithuania - Monika Linkyte - Stay
Monika is great.
Her song however, was very mid. It comes across as an Adele esque song, and without the backing singers, I would knock a few points off. It's not that she had a bad night...I just think this was the wrong choice.
Especially as she had a banger in 2015.
The chorus (which I think is Lithuanian) was very catchy however. It was memorable for that and unfortunately, that alone.
I want to see Monika again. But sadly, I also see Lithuania dropping out due to bad results in recent years.
7.2/10
Israel - Noa Kirel - Unicorn
Pop song of the night.
If Karijja and Loreen did not compete...Noa would win. Hands down. Her song was everything a Eurovision audience loves. It was not my song of the night - Luke Black, that goes to you - but this was VERY close.
From the poppy vibes to the incredible dance break at the end (which she nearly broke into a straight out breakdown...)...she has everything a breakout star needs. I see her career going global after this. She was loads better then Netta who won a few years ago and still lost.
Just put that into perspective.
Great performance - the last great performance of the night.
8.8/10
Slovenia - Joker Out - Carpe Diem
I heard nothing but great things about Bojan. And I came into this contest wit high expectations. And...they were not met.
The song was great. Really well wrote. But it seemed like they were playing to the camera as opposed to the crowd. And I wish they involved them more.
But that being said, Bojan has charisma, a great voice, and his band are very involved too. I can see these guys having a Måneskin like career if they continue this direction. But Bojan could break out at any minute if you ask me.
I also think the song was a bit too safe for them. I was expecting a more...funkier beat. This just felt like a FIFA Soundtrack level song.
7.8/10
Croatia - Let 3 - Mama SC
I...
Look. I get this was a joke and sticking it to Putin but...
This was a straight up meme. A sh**post if you so wish. And I'm all for it but they threw away an entry.
The crowd seemed puzzled as well. As was I!
5/10
United Kingdom - Mae Muller - I Wrote A Song
Oh Mae...
You wrote a song, yes. But it was terrible. Song structure, chorus, your vocals...this was not the song, Mae.
Again, I am using my platform to criticize my countries internal selection process. It's about time you stop looking at TikTok and go to local and national talent shows, gigs, even festivals. Once again, the selection committee picking a preferred song from personal bias over talent.
I could go on and on.
But I'm also using my platform to say the dancers were wicked and I would take the blonde guys number.
Back to the song!
I was dissapointed especially after Sam Ryder in 2022...but I expected this. I'm sorry Mae, I hope your well!
3.9/10
Voting opens, we get a recap, I go for a pee
It is now time for the interval acts. During both previous runs, I missed these as I was probably on a booze run. So this was the first time I watched the interval.
Interval: Sam Ryder
I never listened to Spaceman last year, so this is my first exposure to Sam. And after watching his song before watching this...I was impressed!
This is the first act the UK has sent to ESC in years I enjoyed, and this song would have been a contender...if the selection committee ran it back. But nope.
This was a smooth, catchy song that was highly enjoyable! A good interval act. And that guitar solo was better then Blanka's non existing solo.
Also Roger Taylor!!! Love that man.
8.5/10
We get a little cameo by Jan Leeming, the host of Eurovision back when it was hosted in my neck of the woods in Harrogate, way before I was born!!
Julia then cuts a little bit with displaced Ukrainians under the protection of the United Kingdom. It's actually really emotional, and i was moved by it! So glad we could do this for them.
Timor then meets with Alesha and I am so proud of these Ukrainians who performed under such horrible circumstances.
Another recap, another shot of tequila
Interval: Liverpool Songbook NO RATING
As I was born in the North East if England, I don't like Liverpool. But the music that Liverpool has produced is numerous and plentiful. So it was only right ESC decided to honour Liverpool's greats.
I love these Collab intervals!
Mahmood is out first and covers Imagine by the late, great, John Lennon. I was not a fan of this cover, but the original I highly rate. So that might be why.
The song then smoothly transitions to Netta who covers You Spin Me Right Round, and I forgot how great Netta is. She might have performed this better then Dead or Alive. I call for all Netta fans to be called 'Nettles'.
Next is Dadi Fryer with Whole Again by The Atomic Kittens. So, when I was a kid, I refused to go to bed without this song being played.
How did my dad not know I was gay, I don't know.
Anyway. This was a great cover! As always Dadi, blows it away. One of my fave Icelandic acts.
We then gert Cornelia Jakobs covering I Turn To You by the studio MC...Mel C. She even looks a lot like Mel C here! I was never a fan of this song, but Cornelia makes it fun at the very least! Very 90s look here, and she plays with water in a white tank top. So props to her for being comfortable with that!
We then get the return of one of United Kingdom's greatest acts and someone I had the privilege of meeting in 2022 whilst on holiday - Sonia, with her song Better The Devil You Know.
This was way before I got into ESC, but I saw her perform this song. And this was tons better then seeing her live! Also, cute dancers.
And finally, we get Duncan Lawrence cover You Will Never Walk Alone - the theme song for the legendary Liverpool FC. The entire crowd sang along with this, and we were joined by many, many, many personalities including Go_A, Hannah Waddingham, Julia, Alesha Dixon, Graham Norton, and so many more. And this rendition actually made me cry. I never cry at music.
Worthy of note, on the BBC Broadcast, at the end of this performance, Mel Geidroyc spams 'Sonia' constantly.
Was pretty funny.
End of review
I won't bother reviewing the voting process, so thank you for reading my review! Before I go, I am handing out my awards;
The Johnny Logan MVP Award (best performer) - Karijja - Cha Cha Cha
Lordi Award For Best Headbanger (best metal or rock song) - Cha Cha Cha - Karijja
Best Solo Award - Promise - Voyager
Best Dance Break - Unicorn - Noa Kirel
Best Backup Dancers - I Wrote A Song - Mae Muller
The Alexander Rybak Award For Minimal Performance - Watergun - Remo Forrer
The Nil Pois Award For Worst Song of the Night - Sero Mi Se Spada - Luke Black.
submitted by Icy-Condition-3187 to eurovision [link] [comments]
So I am doing a shot for a shot review of this year's contest.
A few notes;
- I will be going off the BBC Broadcast from BBC iPlayer. This will be my third time watching this year's contest.
- I will be ranking all the acts including intervals, alongside some comments on the in between segments.
- this is all my personal rankings, so please don't be mad.
This was highlighted with cameos from British rappers and music stars including Sam Ryder, who did an awesome guitar bit. Andrew Lloyd Weber made an appearance, Joss Stone, Miss Banks...this felt like a star studded version of Stefania that the band could not perform in Ukraine.
Towards the end of the backstage and tubey bits, we have a royal cameo with Kate Middleton herself performing a piano solo! I missed that on both watches before this! I was surprised!
And then we get a super transition complete with a marching band, as Kalush performs the song in Liverpool and this may be one of my favourite openers ever. I might be biased because I really rate this song. This might be my favourite Ukaraine entry not named Go_A. It was really pushed home with the celeb cameos and features.
Final Rating: 8.5/10
Flag Ceremony NO RATING
We now get the traditional flag ceremony where we get the 26 finalists to come out to British anthems including Blur, Annie Lennox, Prodigy and more mixed in with Ukrainian acts from Eurovision including Go_A, Eurovision winner Jamala, Tina Karol, and one of my favourite Eurovision acts of all time, Verka!
It was a fun little tour down nostalgia lane alongside the first exposure of the acts for this year!
Segment with the hosts
For non-British viewers, you may not know the hosts; so let's go over them!
Mel C from the iconic Spice Girls is the arena MC for this evening. As viewers, we don't get to hear much of her, but for Liverpool, I bet that was a nice little grab!
Alesha Dixon is probably the best known out of the three English hosts. Being a part of Mis-Teeq, she shot to fame with 'Scandalous' in the 2000s before going solo.
Julia Sanina I don't know much about, but I wanted to take the moment to say her contrasting dress with Alesha for the Ukrainian flag colours was so great!
Hannah Waddingham is slowly becoming England's next national treasure. Her Emmy award winning work includes Ted Lasso amongst many things.
Graham Norton is an Irish TV host that has been synonymous with the BBC since I was a child in the early 2000s. He took over as Eurovision commentator when the late, great, Sir Terry Wogan passed away. He is also an out and proud gay man, and his self-named chat show is watched globally.
If you are interested in who did commentary, it was Graham Norton, and the amazing Mel Geidroyc. Mel has been doing TV as long as I have been alive and has mainly been a comedian and TV Host, synomous with the BBC. Mel, alongside best friend Sue Perkins, are both seen as national treasures in the UK.
The hosts go over the rules and Hannah does...an improv French piece? I don't know French so I can't translate that. It is then time for the first act.
I will not go over the post cards.
Austria - Teya and Salena - Who The Hell Is Edgar?
I love the backstory to this song. The producer had no idea who Edgar Allen Poe was! And so the song was born.
The song was bouncy, and it was like I was in the clubs in 2010. But unfortunately, it was nothing I had not heard before. It was generic pop, but that was not to say it was not bad!
The chorus was in my head all freaking night, and the girls choreography was fantastic and on full point. The bridge kinda dwindled the song for a bit and it went on a little longer for what it was.
The striking and contrasting colours of red and white were as equally memorable as the chorus.
Overall, solid entry but it's not quite one I think will win on any ESC.
7.4/10
Portugal - Mimicat - Ai Carocao
This song was a disappointment to be honest. I did like the cabaret and burlesque themes, but the crowd engagement and uniqueness never grasped me as much as I felt.
The crowd was into it and the dancers were into it, incorporating a lot of Latin and Portuguese dances - salsa, in particular.
Unfortunately, it was just not grasping enough to be a solid contender. If I saw this on a different night out in a Portuguese lounge, I would definitely be dancing away!
7.4/10
Switzerland - Remo Forrer - Watergun
I don't like ballads. I find them slow, tiring, and meloncholic for the sake of being meloncholic. And at the end of the song...I really enjoyed this! This was one of my top 3 songs of the night. I don't know why people did not enjoy it.
Reno's voice is strong and his presence for the stage at such a young age is incredible and I predict a strong future for him and possibly an ESC return in a few years time.
The irony of a Swiss man singing about not wanting to be a soldier made me laugh. But other than that, I really, really enjoyed this song!
8.7/10
Poland - Blanka - Solo
Ugh. This was BAD! I liked it on first listen but after re-listens...it did not age well. It's summer pop in a typical 2010 beat and unlike Austria, this song had nothing memorable.
It did not even have a solo! Points deducted!
It was just...not a good song. But hey, it's better than a certain song about to be played!
6.5/10
Serbia - Luke Black - Samo Me Si Spada
I...
This was the worst song of the night for me. The lyrics were incoherent mumbles into the microphone followed by unplugging dancers who did nothing for 90% of the performance?
I get he has a huge following online but I'm sorry, I'm not a fan. This incoherent mess of mumbles and bright lights was clearly Billy Eilish inspired, but it was so far off the mark. You can hear him panting into the mic as he sings, so clearly his endurance needs work.
One of the worst songs I have seen in ESC history including the UK's Embers song of 2021...
3/10
France - La Zarra - Evidement
The crowd needed an energetic ear worm after that...mess.
La Zarra delivered but was it too safe for France? France is known for some knock out hits in Eurovision in recent years...and I feel this was not one of them.
Whilst it was strong, it was not 2022, 2021, or 2018 France. Her dress sense and the bright, strobing performance contrasted her muted yet energetic performance.
And the crowd was really into it! Solid performance, but just a little too safe from Le Frans.
7.5/10
Cyprus - Andrew Lambrou - Break A Broken Heart
I'm not a fan of when a country outsources to another country, with a singer or band with heritage from that country. Case in point, Australian Andrew Lambrou who has Cypriot parents, performed for Cyprus despite being Australian.
However, this was a good little pop ballad. It was catchy, memorable, and this song felt like a chart hit. That being said, his performance did not feel heavy or had the gravity of a performer. It felt like a glorified karaoke performance in this regard.
But it was not a bad song! It was catchy, emotional, and definitely powerful.
7.4/10
Spain - Blanca Paloma - Eaea
This was a weirdly beautiful song, that felt like a dream sequence. The beat is clearly aboriginal or ancient Spanish, and the veil adds another level of entrigue. It is definitely folk inspired for sure.
It was soothing, but oddly creepy in the sense it was super atmospheric.
I don't know what to think of this song in all fairness.
6.7/10
Sweeden - Loreen - Tattoo
I am conflicted.
This is a good song, but Eurovision winner quality? No. It felt boring for a lot of it, and the Avant Garde pop elements and...whatever those nails were did nothing for me.
Loreen is stunning, and has an incredible voice for sure. But this did absolutely nothing for me, and was not a winning quality song.
Very catchy and memorable chorus, and the press machine she was in is very unique in terms of performance. But that is about it.
8/10
Albania - Albina and the Klemendi Family - Duje
This was a mess.
Everyone seemed lost, and the song had no clear direction. The backing singers looked bored, and it just felt so, so, so uninspired. I don't have many positive remarks about this song.
It's not Luke Black...that's about it.
4/10
Italy - Marco Mengoni - Due Vite
Ok. I'm not a fan of sad songs that are sad just because. It's one thing for every song in this contest to be a banger, but unfortunately you also have Luke Black (and no, I have about 100 Luke Black jokes to throw in here).
That being said, it might not be my thing, but the emotional outpour from Marco was something to behold.
It's not my thing, but I can appreciate it. That's 3 straight bangers from Italy with Måneskin, Mahmood, and now Marco - MMM.
7.7/10
Estonia - Alika - Bridges
I was not knowing what to expect...and then I saw the Piano and I got instant Amy Lee vibes. Amy Lee is one of my favourite vocalists of all time and Evanescence was me for...a long time.
As soon as Alike opened her mouth...goosebumps. She sounds so much like Alike, in fact, this track would not go amiss on an Evanescence album. It's just a beautiful song by a beautiful woman. The bright blue dress and self playing piano were symbolistic of this memorable performance.
Just a fantastically beautiful performance!
8.3/10
Finland - Karrija - Cha Cha Cha
I'm coming straight off the bat.
This is one of my favourite songs I have EVER heard on ESC. From dancing, to stage presence, to the blending of pop and metal to create this beast. The rapping in Finnish, and then the screaming cha cha cha...and then the hidden pop verse at the end, leading to the bridge...we will never have another song like this.
It felt like Til Lindermann of Ramnsteinn and Electric Callboy had a baby. This made me dance. It made me scream. And was the song of the night for sure.
Even the insane dancing fit!
How he was robbed I have no idea! This was an insane performance and joins Fairytale, Hard Rock Hallelujah, and Zitt E Buoni as my favourite songs ever performed at ESC.
9.8/10
Chezia - Vesna - My Sister's Crown
After Finland, I was not expecting a bop. But we got a bop!
I have a soft spot for well put together girl groups, and this is definitely a well put together girl group. It is an empowering, feminist song that has a lot of folk moments, rapping, great chereography and it was just a nice package.
I just wish it had a stand out moment. That was what really pushed me back on this song.
Also a very pink performance.
8/10
Australia - Voyager - Promise
I am coming in knowing who Voyager are. I was surprised and when they came to perform...I was very impressed.
It's a poppy song, and it is insanely catchy! But then halfway through the song, you get this brutal breakdown and an insane progressive riff from the female guitarist. Even the backing singing was great!
The set was all Night Rider themed and felt like I was going through a synthwave. It was just what we needed to continue after two straight bangers. Another freaking banger!
It even has a keytar solo!!!!
Pretty sure this is gonna be a Eurovision classic for years to come.
Oh oh oh ohohoh.
8.8/10
Belgium - Gustaph - Because Of You
This next performance is a little...ehhh for me.
But that does not mean I don't like it! It is just a little out of time for me. It seems like a hit that would do really well in the late 90s and early 2000s. In fact, I can see this song winning if it was earlier.
The beat is strong and the dress game is strong here.
Also as a side note; Gustav and Marco Mengoni did a really good job this year for the LGBT community. As a member myself, these two songs really were a great show!
7.7/10
Skit With Graham Norton
This is just classic UK cheese!
We catch back up with Graham in the commentary booth watching old Eurovision DVDs and he deliberately throws popcorn on the floor 🤣 it's just cheese to the maximum. Graham is a master of the cheese, and has made a career of it.
Skit with Mel Geidroyc
And now we get a weird skit where Mel Geidroyc is churning butter...I died from laughter 🤣🤣
Some great comedy relief all night long.
Armenia - Brunette - Future Lover
And now we get back into the pop train. And this was one of the better pop songs of the night (the best is yet to come). And like Luke Black, she begins laying down...and unlike Luke Black, she produces a good song.
Look, no hate for Luke at all but...come on!
Anyway. Back to Brunette. She goes from smooth to rap and then straight up pop. She channels her inner Serj Tankien here by experimenting in multiple voice notes.
And there is a dance break which is one of the better dance breaks of the night.
Overall, it's a good song but it's nothing special. We see one of these tracks every year.
7.7/10
Moldova - Pasha Parfeni - Soreli Si Luna
This is by far the best song that shows what Eurovision is about. It is full of Eastern European culture, a fantastic flute, two very cute (the one on the right in particular) and very energetic folk drummers slash dancers, and some really cool visuals. Some beautiful dancing and a powerful presence on stage.
I'm surprised this did not do better. Alongside Remo Forrer, I'm really surprised these hits got slept on.
I adore Pasha. And I really want to see him represent Moldova again in the future. Third time is the charm Pasha!
9/10
Ukaraine - Tvorchi - Heart of Steel
First of all, well done Tvorchi. Minutes before they went live, their hometown of Ternopol was invaded by Russia. I don't want to go into anymore, so I won't.
But this song...I was not a fan. Stefania blew me away, and Shum is an all time favourite ESC track for me. And this song failed to live up to either. But the vocals and visuals were very, very strong. Combining realistic VCG and SFX was one thing, but this felt like I was at a sci-fi DJ convention.
That being said, I was not a fan. It felt rushed and over produced with an emphasis on visual reactions and not auditory. I was just impressed they performed minutes after hearing the worst news of their life.
7.5/10
Norway - Alessandra - Queen of Kings
YASSS QUEEN!
I really enjoyed this song! From Alessandra's incredible singing and the hookworms - this is the catchiest song of the night. The dancing was on point, and the crowd was really into it.
Any other year, this would be a top 3 song. But this year was stacked. It was not 2021 stacked, but it was stacked. And she is so young! I see her bringing it home to Norway in the future.
Speaking of Norway, I hear a lot Alexander Rybak tunes in this. I now want a collav between the two.
The song could have done without that High note...
8.4/10
Germany - Lord of the Lost - Blood And Glitter
This is my style of music. Heavily Rammstein inspired, I would have preferred if Electric Callboy was in this spot but for what ever reason...it never happened.
But LotL still produced a banger. It has screams, growls, sweet and bitter notes...it was a nice little metal performance to kick the last leg of the night off.
I see why it did so poorly. But I am also hopeful Electric Callboy offer a Karrija style performance next year.
The outfits threw me off a bit however...
8.7/10
Lithuania - Monika Linkyte - Stay
Monika is great.
Her song however, was very mid. It comes across as an Adele esque song, and without the backing singers, I would knock a few points off. It's not that she had a bad night...I just think this was the wrong choice.
Especially as she had a banger in 2015.
The chorus (which I think is Lithuanian) was very catchy however. It was memorable for that and unfortunately, that alone.
I want to see Monika again. But sadly, I also see Lithuania dropping out due to bad results in recent years.
7.2/10
Israel - Noa Kirel - Unicorn
Pop song of the night.
If Karijja and Loreen did not compete...Noa would win. Hands down. Her song was everything a Eurovision audience loves. It was not my song of the night - Luke Black, that goes to you - but this was VERY close.
From the poppy vibes to the incredible dance break at the end (which she nearly broke into a straight out breakdown...)...she has everything a breakout star needs. I see her career going global after this. She was loads better then Netta who won a few years ago and still lost.
Just put that into perspective.
Great performance - the last great performance of the night.
8.8/10
Slovenia - Joker Out - Carpe Diem
I heard nothing but great things about Bojan. And I came into this contest wit high expectations. And...they were not met.
The song was great. Really well wrote. But it seemed like they were playing to the camera as opposed to the crowd. And I wish they involved them more.
But that being said, Bojan has charisma, a great voice, and his band are very involved too. I can see these guys having a Måneskin like career if they continue this direction. But Bojan could break out at any minute if you ask me.
I also think the song was a bit too safe for them. I was expecting a more...funkier beat. This just felt like a FIFA Soundtrack level song.
7.8/10
Croatia - Let 3 - Mama SC
I...
Look. I get this was a joke and sticking it to Putin but...
This was a straight up meme. A sh**post if you so wish. And I'm all for it but they threw away an entry.
The crowd seemed puzzled as well. As was I!
5/10
United Kingdom - Mae Muller - I Wrote A Song
Oh Mae...
You wrote a song, yes. But it was terrible. Song structure, chorus, your vocals...this was not the song, Mae.
Again, I am using my platform to criticize my countries internal selection process. It's about time you stop looking at TikTok and go to local and national talent shows, gigs, even festivals. Once again, the selection committee picking a preferred song from personal bias over talent.
I could go on and on.
But I'm also using my platform to say the dancers were wicked and I would take the blonde guys number.
Back to the song!
I was dissapointed especially after Sam Ryder in 2022...but I expected this. I'm sorry Mae, I hope your well!
3.9/10
Voting opens, we get a recap, I go for a pee
It is now time for the interval acts. During both previous runs, I missed these as I was probably on a booze run. So this was the first time I watched the interval.
Interval: Sam Ryder
I never listened to Spaceman last year, so this is my first exposure to Sam. And after watching his song before watching this...I was impressed!
This is the first act the UK has sent to ESC in years I enjoyed, and this song would have been a contender...if the selection committee ran it back. But nope.
This was a smooth, catchy song that was highly enjoyable! A good interval act. And that guitar solo was better then Blanka's non existing solo.
Also Roger Taylor!!! Love that man.
8.5/10
We get a little cameo by Jan Leeming, the host of Eurovision back when it was hosted in my neck of the woods in Harrogate, way before I was born!!
Julia then cuts a little bit with displaced Ukrainians under the protection of the United Kingdom. It's actually really emotional, and i was moved by it! So glad we could do this for them.
Timor then meets with Alesha and I am so proud of these Ukrainians who performed under such horrible circumstances.
Another recap, another shot of tequila
Interval: Liverpool Songbook NO RATING
As I was born in the North East if England, I don't like Liverpool. But the music that Liverpool has produced is numerous and plentiful. So it was only right ESC decided to honour Liverpool's greats.
I love these Collab intervals!
Mahmood is out first and covers Imagine by the late, great, John Lennon. I was not a fan of this cover, but the original I highly rate. So that might be why.
The song then smoothly transitions to Netta who covers You Spin Me Right Round, and I forgot how great Netta is. She might have performed this better then Dead or Alive. I call for all Netta fans to be called 'Nettles'.
Next is Dadi Fryer with Whole Again by The Atomic Kittens. So, when I was a kid, I refused to go to bed without this song being played.
How did my dad not know I was gay, I don't know.
Anyway. This was a great cover! As always Dadi, blows it away. One of my fave Icelandic acts.
We then gert Cornelia Jakobs covering I Turn To You by the studio MC...Mel C. She even looks a lot like Mel C here! I was never a fan of this song, but Cornelia makes it fun at the very least! Very 90s look here, and she plays with water in a white tank top. So props to her for being comfortable with that!
We then get the return of one of United Kingdom's greatest acts and someone I had the privilege of meeting in 2022 whilst on holiday - Sonia, with her song Better The Devil You Know.
This was way before I got into ESC, but I saw her perform this song. And this was tons better then seeing her live! Also, cute dancers.
And finally, we get Duncan Lawrence cover You Will Never Walk Alone - the theme song for the legendary Liverpool FC. The entire crowd sang along with this, and we were joined by many, many, many personalities including Go_A, Hannah Waddingham, Julia, Alesha Dixon, Graham Norton, and so many more. And this rendition actually made me cry. I never cry at music.
Worthy of note, on the BBC Broadcast, at the end of this performance, Mel Geidroyc spams 'Sonia' constantly.
Was pretty funny.
End of review
I won't bother reviewing the voting process, so thank you for reading my review! Before I go, I am handing out my awards;
The Johnny Logan MVP Award (best performer) - Karijja - Cha Cha Cha
Lordi Award For Best Headbanger (best metal or rock song) - Cha Cha Cha - Karijja
Best Solo Award - Promise - Voyager
Best Dance Break - Unicorn - Noa Kirel
Best Backup Dancers - I Wrote A Song - Mae Muller
The Alexander Rybak Award For Minimal Performance - Watergun - Remo Forrer
The Nil Pois Award For Worst Song of the Night - Sero Mi Se Spada - Luke Black.
2023.06.08 03:14 LeeCloud27 ACT 2-11-2: Ropeway to False Divinity
“Amai!!!!!!!” Satsujin leapt forward and grabbed Amai, hugging and kissing her fondly.
“Where have you been!? I haven’t seen you in days!” He said. “Oh, were you scared without me? Did you miss me? Did you miss big bro Satsu?” He said in a dumb voice as he held the cat in his arms.
“Meow.” Amai responded, staring at Satsujin with half of a metallic face.
“Aw~ Of course you did! But don’t worry, I’m here again and I won’t leave you again.”
While he embraced the cat, everyone else who was just getting off the tram looked at him weirdly.
“Hmm… I never imagined that he would be obsessed with feline creatures.” Youki said.
“Obsessed is putting it lightly.” Sumireko added. “Still, how did she get all the way up Youkai Mountain?”
“Well, cats are known to be mysterious.” Kosuzu said. “But can you tell me who Amai is and why she looks like that?”
“Well it’s a bit of a story, but basically-”
“Shanghai! Shanghai Shanghai!” Shanghai yelled loudly while pointing at Amai, getting the attention of everyone else. Ko was holding her while Gummy listened to what she was saying, confused with whatever she had spouted.
“Ribbit. Ribbit ribbit. Ribbit.” Gummy translated.
“What!?” Ko was surprised. “You’re saying that Amai tried to get us killed after luring us over to Misty Lake so she could nab PB away while they were still deactivated!?” She said.
Ko’s words caused everyone to look at her, then at Amai in shock, while those who weren’t around when Amai temporarily joined the group remained somewhat confused. Satsujin on the other hand was the opposite of everyone.
“What!? No way! Amai would never do something like that!” Satsujin said. “Isn’t that right, Amai?” He asked the cyborg cat.
“Meow.” Amai meowed.
“See? She would never. I bet Shanghai is just jealous because she gets more love than her.” Satsujin accused Shanghai.
“Shanghai!!!” The doll yelled, trying to squirm out of Ko's hands to approach him and the cat. While she yelled, Gummy continued to translate, as Ko translated again for everyone else to hear.
“She says that Amai is evil, that she is not who you think she is, but rather a being who is bound to lead all of us to our doom.” Ko said.
Satsujin was skeptical, but did have some doubts about Amai. Yet before he could say anything, Satsunyan spoke up as a pair of cat ears appeared on top of the spirit’s head.
“Hold on a moment, Satsu~” Satsunyan said. “I speak cat, so maybe I can tell if she’s telling the truth.”
Satsunyan listened to Amai’s meows, nodding along for a bit until finally got everything explained. They looked over at Ko and Shanghai, with a glare that seemed very cat-like.
“Well? What did the cat say?” Ko asked.
“Amai said that Shanghai is clearly jealous of her getting her beloved Satsujin’s attention, leaving none for herself. Amai also said that Shanghai is being rude to her only because she’s a dog person.” Satsunyan said. “How dare you Shanghai, and after everything we did together on our journey.”
“Shanghai!?” Shanghai was immensely shocked with what Amai had said. She noticed how Amai was giving her a look, which infuriated the doll even more as she attempted to jump out of Ko’s hands and attack the cyborg cat with her lance.
“Wah! Hey, no fighting Shanghai! Now’s not the time!” Ko said, trying to handle the raging doll.
“Shanghai Shanghai Shanghai!!!” Shanghai yelled, while Amai looked from where she was as Satsunyan protected her.
“Um… can we all head towards the shrine? I like to see if there’s at least something that could give us a hint on where Haru and the others went.” Kosuzu requested.
…
Moriya Shrine was quiet. The grounds were clean and free of anything but stone and concrete. Twin statues of Komainu stood facing each other, with the sacred building by their opposite shoulders. Large rope hung below the rooftop, with a large box that rested on the floor.
The large group looked around and at the building, seeing if there was something that seemed off or unusual; anything that could give them an idea on if Haru or anyone else they knew was here. All they found were the trees that had surrounded the shrine, nothing else was out of place outside the area.
“Did you find anything?” Satsujin asked.
“Nope.” Sumireko said.
“Nothing here.” Cirno said.
“Not that I know of.” Suika said. The rest were either still looking or nodded their heads no.
“Maybe something inside the building?” Satsujin suggested.
“I think Wakasagihime and Kagerou are inside right now looking.” Cirno pointed.
And indeed, inside Wakasagihime and Kagerou were looking around the living area of the shrine. They noticed all the furniture was intact, the walls were clean, and nothing seemed out of place. Save for a large aquarium tank that was cracked open with all the water drained from it.
Satsujin himself was a little wary, noticing how quiet the place was. He checked with Meiling for a moment to see if she could sense any signs of malice intent nearby.
“I don’t sense any qi that sounds harmful, it’s just us. But you’re right, it is weird how quiet it is.” Meiling said.
“It could be a trick, or even some kind of trap.” Satsujin assumed. “Maybe the Moral Gods had set up something knowing that we would be here.”
“You are too worried.” Youki said, stepping into the conversation. “It is fine for a warrior to be weary of their surroundings, but if it is all that one thinks, then they leave no room for other thoughts.” He spoke with wisdom.
Meiling looked at Youki strangely, which was understandable considering the mixed mindset she has regarding the swordsman.
“Hey! I think I found something!” Rumia shouted.
Satsujin, Mary, Sumireko, Cirno, and some of the others came over to Rumia’s position, except for Wakasagihime and Kagerou who were still inside the shrine, checking further down the available hall.
Rumia showed everyone a piece of paper, with a part of the bottom looking to have been torn off. Kosuzu grabbed the paper, quickly recognizing the near-impossible-to-read handwriting.
“This is Haru’s! It’s another entry.” Kosuzu said. “PB, can you-”
PB had already grabbed the paper before Kosuzu could finish, knowing what she was going to ask. A new paper was made as Kosuzu read what it had to say.
—
May 5th, Year 202X Hour of writing: 5 pm. Soft rain with strong winds. Incoming storm. We’re just back from the expedition. It went as I least expected; pretty fucking wrong.
Yesterday's meeting went well, for the most part. While everyone agreed on keeping everything under control, Aunn refused to come, because she didn't want to leave Akyuu alone after everything she's gone through recently, and that's perfectly understandable. Seiran did agree to come with me out of a desire to explore, so the next day, she and Ringo got everything sorted out on the comms side of things and we went our way into Youkai Mountain.
It took us roughly two hours to get into the base of the mountain, because of some youkai getting in our way, but we were able to go past them without major trouble. There, we found a ropeway, which saved us from the effort to climb the mountain. It was a pretty nice sight. After a while, we got to the peak of the mountain, and thus, arrived at Moriya Shrine.
Surprisingly, it was completely untouched. Both exterior and interior were in an immaculate state, save for a thick layer of dust that covered everything in there. We found a lot of useful things for the survivors, such as canned food, clothes, medicine, a handful of old weapons, and many other things.
At one point, we entered a big room with nothing but a giant water tank with a goldfish in there. We first assumed that this was someone's pet, having been abandoned due to the depraved incident. What we didn't expect, is that it started talking in perfect Japanese from nowhere. Yeah. A talking fish.
Before I could ask anything important, the fish started to insult me and Seiran. Apparently, It knew exactly who we were, and claimed to know a lot about us. It told me I was a drama queen, a liar, a psycho, a stubborn idiot, and many other things. It also said I was only useful because of my dragon heart, and that I would be nothing but a living floor mat without it.
It also told Seiran that she would fail to save Ringo, just how she failed before being sheltered by me, because it was bound to happen. I was shocked at what the fish said, and Seiran was about to explode in anger. She ran forward, trying to destroy the tank, but was sent back by a giant spectral snake that came out of nowhere. The fish laughed, and then called out a whole pack of those snakes to attack us. We tried our best to fight back, but after a tough fight, I realized there was no possible way to win, because of how powerful they were as a unit.
I ended up fleeing the shrine with Seiran in my back, as she carried all the loot we managed to get from it. I had to run for well over an hour until I got back to Eientei. She's doing well, though she seems to have been affected by the fish's words, now being notoriously under the weather with everyone including her partner. I will have to talk down with her about that later.
And as for the shrine, I'm never going back to that place. It was a terrible idea all along. What I was thinking?
…
I̷̤̓'̷͈̈m̶͙͝ ̴̝̀a̶̪͝n̷̛͉ ̸̪̔ỉ̴̩d̸̞͂i̶̩̽o̴̧͛t̴̡̓.̵̣̈́ ̴̩́Ị̴̅ ̸̛͍c̵͎̚a̵̻̿n̸̹̈́'̷̲̾ț̷͑ ̴̝͆h̶̪́e̶͔̋l̸͇͝p̸̛̯ ̶͈̂b̴̨͊u̶͍̅t̵̟́ ̴̼͠f̴̮̎e̷̝̕e̴͒͜ḷ̷̆ ̶͖́ţ̸̛h̶̓͜e̴̺͑ẏ̶̱ ̴̣̑w̵̹̿e̷̟̓r̵͚̓e̵̮͐ ̵̺̉r̷̟͑i̷̞̽g̸͖̈́h̵̩͆t̷̹̎ ̸̖̀a̵͖̍b̴̞͌o̴̬͒ụ̴̿ṫ̵̫ ̸̳͋m̶͕̈́ḙ̴̋.̴͖̾
—
Kosuzu looked at the last part of the entry, seeing the corrupted text once more. Her mind was once again worried like before, but her thoughts were interrupted by Suika.
“Wait, that’s it?” Suika asked, snatching the paper from Kosuzu. “No information on where they went? No signs of where to go?”
“It’s a journal entry, I don’t think it makes sense to write down directions on where exactly the author went.” Satsujin stated.
“I know that, but we’ve been running around in a circle across Gensokyo by now! The very least they could do is point us in the right direction!” Suika said.
“Maybe there’s something inside the shrine we haven’t checked.” Sumireko said. “I wonder if Kagerou and Wakasagihime found anything.”
The rest looked towards the shrine, with some noticing how they have been in there a bit longer than they should. Amai herself was sitting there, staring right at the shrine.
“Um… What’s taking them?” Suika asked. “Did they get lost or something?”
“I don’t think they would get lost. It’s not like Moriya Shrine is that big of a place.” Sumireko said. “It is strange how they haven’t come out yet. Maybe we should head in and check.”
Just as she said that, Amai darted to the left, running down and away from everyone else. Satsujin noticed her running off and called for her.
“Amai! Where are you going!?” He asked. “We need to go after her!”
Satsujin was just about to pursue the half-robotic feline, but stopped upon sensing something coming from inside the shrine itself. His body went to a halt, turning around to look back over.
Meiling and Youki also sensed something coming from inside the shrine. It wasn’t something that resembled corruption, but it wasn’t anything familiar either.
“Ah…A wolf, and a fish… A strange pair of friends, yet not unusual either.” A voice inside the shrine spoke. Footsteps could be heard, loud and clear, shaking the ground with each step that was taken.
“Oh…Dear.” PB said.
“Um…Guys…Something isn’t right.” Sumireko said, also getting a similar feeling like the others. Everyone readied themselves.
The doors of Moriya Shrine were wide open, as a figure walked out. Bare feet were shown, shining a golden yellow. Muscles were seen, big and toned from the calf of the legs to the pectorals of the chest. The shape of their body was almost godlike to the eyes of many.
They walked out of the building entirely, letting their face be revealed to all the others. Unlike the rest of his body though, his head resembled that of a goldfish. With a pair of big eyes on each side, big fish lips, and even scales which reflect on the sunlight.
In their hands, Kagerou and Wakasagihime were both being held; dragged out by their necks. They looked to have been beaten badly with bruises on their bodies and cuts on their clothes. Some of the members gasped as they saw who it was that seemed obviously to be the culprit of their wounds.
“What did you do to them!?” Meiling asked defensively.
“I just knocked them out. That’s all.” The figure said, dropping the two as he walked forward. “They intruded my resting quarters while I was napping, dreaming about glory and fame.”
“Who are you!?” Meiling asked again.
“And why do you have a fish head!?” Cirno said, asking the bigger questions.
Both her and Meiling rush at the figure with their weapons and their fists. They both striked the foe with might and fury for what happened to their friends. But as the smoke cleared, it was revealed that the figure, taking the full impact of Cirno’s Melon Blade and Meiling’s fist, remained standing perfectly fine.
Then during the small moment of confusion that the two bore towards their opponent, the fish-faced figure grabbed both Cirno and Meiling while also holding the previous two, and threw them both across the shrine grounds with great power! Meiling and Cirno crashed into the pavement, simultaneously being used as cushions for the wolf and the mermaid respectively.
“Meiling! Cirno!” Sumireko shouted. Mary and Satsujin both rush over to their friends, helping them up while checking to see if they sustained any major wounds.
Meanwhile, the figure hummed, looking around to see what he was presented with. He saw the majority looking human, but could tell that most of them were more than that. But upon laying eyes on PB, he smiled greatly.
“Ah, Peanut Butter. It’s been a while.” He spoke. “Last I saw you was back on Omnious, when my brother and I were this close to achieving our conquest.”
“...How?” PB asked carefully. “How did you return?”
“Wait, you know him?” Sumireko asked PB.
“I do.” PB answered. “He is a very powerful foe, known by his title as ‘The Omnipotent One’. A man who once tried to wipe out all three of the Mortal Realms after he and his brother agreed that the actions of the individual would lead to the downfall of all that is living.”
The Omnipotent One chuckled from PB’s statement about him. “That’s what mere mortals like to refer to me as. But for now, you may call me Simon.”
“Simon…Wait a second.” Sumireko thought for a moment. “Didn’t Sanae have a pet goldfish named Simon?”
“Correct naive child.” Simon said. “It is true, I once was kept as a mere pet fish by her and those two goddesses she claims are her ‘parents’.” He said while raising his hands to make quotation marks. “Before all of that though, I was a triumphant God; born and raised in the land of Omnious alongside many of my fellow deities.”
“But you were killed, we were there, Alena and I. You were supposed to be dead.” PB said in a more serious tone.
“Ah…But that’s the thing, Peanut Butter. I am a god, always have, always will.” Simon exclaimed. “I was reborn into the form of a man; grew up in a normal household and raised by two adults who believed in what was best for me. I was fortunate to have retained my memories and knowledge. In the following years I managed to position myself in a title of power and wealth, enjoying my days of careless wonder. Then one day, I was introduced to a man with both religious and political power, offering a unique kind of deal that anyone would accept in a heartbeat. There, I was engaged to a girl named Sanae Kochiya.”
“I could already tell that they were using her as an excuse to get more followers to their weakening cult, but I figured it wouldn’t hurt to have a person who I could use to my liking. So I decide to torture her; bringing home various bugs and creatures and watch her squirm all over the room while begging for it to stop. It reminded me of back home when we would take mortal men and throw them into the colosseum with lions, tigers, and bears.”
“Oh my.” Suika spouted suddenly, covering her mouth afterwards with her hands.
“Oh my indeed.” Simon said. “But alas, the fun didn’t last forever. There came a day when one of the creatures I brought got too close to her, one that contained a deadly poison in its fangs, and bit her…I was disappointed to watch her be taken down like that, especially since it was clear she had the blood of a god residing in her. But what I didn’t know was that I had accidentally angered an ancient god in the process. Thus, my form was reverted to that of a fish. A goldfish to be more specific.”
“And for years I was treated with harsh verbal tongue from both the Goddess of Wind and Rain and the Goddess of Mountains. They even managed to bring back that girl Sanae using a forbidden soul transfer ritual, turning her from a sad girl with mental trauma into the most happy-go-lucky kid I ever seen…Heh…Hahaha…Hahahahahahaha!” Simon started to laugh all of a sudden, making everyone else all the more confused on the matter as his laughter turned hysterical.
“HAHAHAHAHA!!! And all those years I had waited! Waited for the day that I would return to my full strength! Waited for when the stars would align, the planets in their right positions, the time being exactly right. Waited I did, and a reward I had received. With the thanks of a bolt of corrupted lighting I regained my power, and learned how to control the mishaguji that the ancient goddess left behind; the very beings who had given me that weak body to begin with!” He said, as a flurry of white snake-like beings manifested around Simon, waving like flames behind his back while looking down at everyone.
Simon gripped his hands tightly, flexing his arms to show his strength. “And with this new body, granted to me with the help of the powers of Hakurei, I now have a form to match my immense strength!”
“Hakurei? What do you mean?” PB asked, right as Simon decided to approach them with a bit of an unhinged look in their eyes.
“Don’t you get it? This was all planned from the very beginning! All of it!!! From the moment you all stepped onto that tram to move up the mountain you were already destined to meet me. And now you shall face me!” Simon said.
That was when it finally hit them. Sumireko and PB were the first to realize the situation that was put upon them: This was a trap no doubt, a very serious trap.
“We need to leave!!!” PB said as they went and allowed Sumireko to equip them to provide her extra power to evacuate. She dashed the opposite direction of where Simon stood, with PB yelling at everyone else to follow their lead as they knew staying any longer would only bring impending doom.
They ran down the shrine grounds as quickly as they could, but only for a few seconds before they collided with a barrier.
“Owie…” Sumireko checked to see if her face was okay. “A barrier?”
She pressed on it, the air felt like a solid surface. The others stopped as they approached, noticing they were now sealed in. Satsujin tried to phase through, but alas the moment he tried to push his arms through he was pushed back with a jolt of electricity. Suika made an attempt to convert her body into mist, but even in that form she was not able to pass through.
“This is like when we were at Hakurei Shrine.” Sumireko thought. “Then that would mean…”
She looked out the brand-new barrier, and saw Yuzuki with her hands out, and Demise standing alongside her.
“Ah, we meet again.” Demise said to the group. “I see you all met Simon? He’s a great fellow, knows his stuff well.”
“YOU!!!” Mary screamed, attempting to pierce through the barrier with her daggers. “Why the fuck is it always you everytime we go anywhere!?”
“Aw, I missed you too dear… A shame this may be our last meeting together.” Demise said. “But to the rest of you, best of luck.”
“What the hell do you mean our last meeting together!?” Mary asked, but Demise did not answer, making her more furious. “Hey… Hey! Answer me you prick! Get over here and let me carve you into a hollow corpse!”
The group looked back, seeing Simon standing there with a big fish-lipped smile on his face. He didn’t approach the group yet, almost seemingly waiting for them to come to him first.
“Ah…It’s been a while since I have been able to fight someone. This will be a good warmup.” He said, rolling his arms around as a large pair of blades fell from nowhere whilst he pulled them out from the ground. “Now… Which of you will be the first of my victims?”
submitted by LeeCloud27 to touhou [link] [comments]
“Where have you been!? I haven’t seen you in days!” He said. “Oh, were you scared without me? Did you miss me? Did you miss big bro Satsu?” He said in a dumb voice as he held the cat in his arms.
“Meow.” Amai responded, staring at Satsujin with half of a metallic face.
“Aw~ Of course you did! But don’t worry, I’m here again and I won’t leave you again.”
While he embraced the cat, everyone else who was just getting off the tram looked at him weirdly.
“Hmm… I never imagined that he would be obsessed with feline creatures.” Youki said.
“Obsessed is putting it lightly.” Sumireko added. “Still, how did she get all the way up Youkai Mountain?”
“Well, cats are known to be mysterious.” Kosuzu said. “But can you tell me who Amai is and why she looks like that?”
“Well it’s a bit of a story, but basically-”
“Shanghai! Shanghai Shanghai!” Shanghai yelled loudly while pointing at Amai, getting the attention of everyone else. Ko was holding her while Gummy listened to what she was saying, confused with whatever she had spouted.
“Ribbit. Ribbit ribbit. Ribbit.” Gummy translated.
“What!?” Ko was surprised. “You’re saying that Amai tried to get us killed after luring us over to Misty Lake so she could nab PB away while they were still deactivated!?” She said.
Ko’s words caused everyone to look at her, then at Amai in shock, while those who weren’t around when Amai temporarily joined the group remained somewhat confused. Satsujin on the other hand was the opposite of everyone.
“What!? No way! Amai would never do something like that!” Satsujin said. “Isn’t that right, Amai?” He asked the cyborg cat.
“Meow.” Amai meowed.
“See? She would never. I bet Shanghai is just jealous because she gets more love than her.” Satsujin accused Shanghai.
“Shanghai!!!” The doll yelled, trying to squirm out of Ko's hands to approach him and the cat. While she yelled, Gummy continued to translate, as Ko translated again for everyone else to hear.
“She says that Amai is evil, that she is not who you think she is, but rather a being who is bound to lead all of us to our doom.” Ko said.
Satsujin was skeptical, but did have some doubts about Amai. Yet before he could say anything, Satsunyan spoke up as a pair of cat ears appeared on top of the spirit’s head.
“Hold on a moment, Satsu~” Satsunyan said. “I speak cat, so maybe I can tell if she’s telling the truth.”
Satsunyan listened to Amai’s meows, nodding along for a bit until finally got everything explained. They looked over at Ko and Shanghai, with a glare that seemed very cat-like.
“Well? What did the cat say?” Ko asked.
“Amai said that Shanghai is clearly jealous of her getting her beloved Satsujin’s attention, leaving none for herself. Amai also said that Shanghai is being rude to her only because she’s a dog person.” Satsunyan said. “How dare you Shanghai, and after everything we did together on our journey.”
“Shanghai!?” Shanghai was immensely shocked with what Amai had said. She noticed how Amai was giving her a look, which infuriated the doll even more as she attempted to jump out of Ko’s hands and attack the cyborg cat with her lance.
“Wah! Hey, no fighting Shanghai! Now’s not the time!” Ko said, trying to handle the raging doll.
“Shanghai Shanghai Shanghai!!!” Shanghai yelled, while Amai looked from where she was as Satsunyan protected her.
“Um… can we all head towards the shrine? I like to see if there’s at least something that could give us a hint on where Haru and the others went.” Kosuzu requested.
…
Moriya Shrine was quiet. The grounds were clean and free of anything but stone and concrete. Twin statues of Komainu stood facing each other, with the sacred building by their opposite shoulders. Large rope hung below the rooftop, with a large box that rested on the floor.
The large group looked around and at the building, seeing if there was something that seemed off or unusual; anything that could give them an idea on if Haru or anyone else they knew was here. All they found were the trees that had surrounded the shrine, nothing else was out of place outside the area.
“Did you find anything?” Satsujin asked.
“Nope.” Sumireko said.
“Nothing here.” Cirno said.
“Not that I know of.” Suika said. The rest were either still looking or nodded their heads no.
“Maybe something inside the building?” Satsujin suggested.
“I think Wakasagihime and Kagerou are inside right now looking.” Cirno pointed.
And indeed, inside Wakasagihime and Kagerou were looking around the living area of the shrine. They noticed all the furniture was intact, the walls were clean, and nothing seemed out of place. Save for a large aquarium tank that was cracked open with all the water drained from it.
Satsujin himself was a little wary, noticing how quiet the place was. He checked with Meiling for a moment to see if she could sense any signs of malice intent nearby.
“I don’t sense any qi that sounds harmful, it’s just us. But you’re right, it is weird how quiet it is.” Meiling said.
“It could be a trick, or even some kind of trap.” Satsujin assumed. “Maybe the Moral Gods had set up something knowing that we would be here.”
“You are too worried.” Youki said, stepping into the conversation. “It is fine for a warrior to be weary of their surroundings, but if it is all that one thinks, then they leave no room for other thoughts.” He spoke with wisdom.
Meiling looked at Youki strangely, which was understandable considering the mixed mindset she has regarding the swordsman.
“Hey! I think I found something!” Rumia shouted.
Satsujin, Mary, Sumireko, Cirno, and some of the others came over to Rumia’s position, except for Wakasagihime and Kagerou who were still inside the shrine, checking further down the available hall.
Rumia showed everyone a piece of paper, with a part of the bottom looking to have been torn off. Kosuzu grabbed the paper, quickly recognizing the near-impossible-to-read handwriting.
“This is Haru’s! It’s another entry.” Kosuzu said. “PB, can you-”
PB had already grabbed the paper before Kosuzu could finish, knowing what she was going to ask. A new paper was made as Kosuzu read what it had to say.
—
May 5th, Year 202X Hour of writing: 5 pm. Soft rain with strong winds. Incoming storm. We’re just back from the expedition. It went as I least expected; pretty fucking wrong.
Yesterday's meeting went well, for the most part. While everyone agreed on keeping everything under control, Aunn refused to come, because she didn't want to leave Akyuu alone after everything she's gone through recently, and that's perfectly understandable. Seiran did agree to come with me out of a desire to explore, so the next day, she and Ringo got everything sorted out on the comms side of things and we went our way into Youkai Mountain.
It took us roughly two hours to get into the base of the mountain, because of some youkai getting in our way, but we were able to go past them without major trouble. There, we found a ropeway, which saved us from the effort to climb the mountain. It was a pretty nice sight. After a while, we got to the peak of the mountain, and thus, arrived at Moriya Shrine.
Surprisingly, it was completely untouched. Both exterior and interior were in an immaculate state, save for a thick layer of dust that covered everything in there. We found a lot of useful things for the survivors, such as canned food, clothes, medicine, a handful of old weapons, and many other things.
At one point, we entered a big room with nothing but a giant water tank with a goldfish in there. We first assumed that this was someone's pet, having been abandoned due to the depraved incident. What we didn't expect, is that it started talking in perfect Japanese from nowhere. Yeah. A talking fish.
Before I could ask anything important, the fish started to insult me and Seiran. Apparently, It knew exactly who we were, and claimed to know a lot about us. It told me I was a drama queen, a liar, a psycho, a stubborn idiot, and many other things. It also said I was only useful because of my dragon heart, and that I would be nothing but a living floor mat without it.
It also told Seiran that she would fail to save Ringo, just how she failed before being sheltered by me, because it was bound to happen. I was shocked at what the fish said, and Seiran was about to explode in anger. She ran forward, trying to destroy the tank, but was sent back by a giant spectral snake that came out of nowhere. The fish laughed, and then called out a whole pack of those snakes to attack us. We tried our best to fight back, but after a tough fight, I realized there was no possible way to win, because of how powerful they were as a unit.
I ended up fleeing the shrine with Seiran in my back, as she carried all the loot we managed to get from it. I had to run for well over an hour until I got back to Eientei. She's doing well, though she seems to have been affected by the fish's words, now being notoriously under the weather with everyone including her partner. I will have to talk down with her about that later.
And as for the shrine, I'm never going back to that place. It was a terrible idea all along. What I was thinking?
…
I̷̤̓'̷͈̈m̶͙͝ ̴̝̀a̶̪͝n̷̛͉ ̸̪̔ỉ̴̩d̸̞͂i̶̩̽o̴̧͛t̴̡̓.̵̣̈́ ̴̩́Ị̴̅ ̸̛͍c̵͎̚a̵̻̿n̸̹̈́'̷̲̾ț̷͑ ̴̝͆h̶̪́e̶͔̋l̸͇͝p̸̛̯ ̶͈̂b̴̨͊u̶͍̅t̵̟́ ̴̼͠f̴̮̎e̷̝̕e̴͒͜ḷ̷̆ ̶͖́ţ̸̛h̶̓͜e̴̺͑ẏ̶̱ ̴̣̑w̵̹̿e̷̟̓r̵͚̓e̵̮͐ ̵̺̉r̷̟͑i̷̞̽g̸͖̈́h̵̩͆t̷̹̎ ̸̖̀a̵͖̍b̴̞͌o̴̬͒ụ̴̿ṫ̵̫ ̸̳͋m̶͕̈́ḙ̴̋.̴͖̾
—
Kosuzu looked at the last part of the entry, seeing the corrupted text once more. Her mind was once again worried like before, but her thoughts were interrupted by Suika.
“Wait, that’s it?” Suika asked, snatching the paper from Kosuzu. “No information on where they went? No signs of where to go?”
“It’s a journal entry, I don’t think it makes sense to write down directions on where exactly the author went.” Satsujin stated.
“I know that, but we’ve been running around in a circle across Gensokyo by now! The very least they could do is point us in the right direction!” Suika said.
“Maybe there’s something inside the shrine we haven’t checked.” Sumireko said. “I wonder if Kagerou and Wakasagihime found anything.”
The rest looked towards the shrine, with some noticing how they have been in there a bit longer than they should. Amai herself was sitting there, staring right at the shrine.
“Um… What’s taking them?” Suika asked. “Did they get lost or something?”
“I don’t think they would get lost. It’s not like Moriya Shrine is that big of a place.” Sumireko said. “It is strange how they haven’t come out yet. Maybe we should head in and check.”
Just as she said that, Amai darted to the left, running down and away from everyone else. Satsujin noticed her running off and called for her.
“Amai! Where are you going!?” He asked. “We need to go after her!”
Satsujin was just about to pursue the half-robotic feline, but stopped upon sensing something coming from inside the shrine itself. His body went to a halt, turning around to look back over.
Meiling and Youki also sensed something coming from inside the shrine. It wasn’t something that resembled corruption, but it wasn’t anything familiar either.
“Ah…A wolf, and a fish… A strange pair of friends, yet not unusual either.” A voice inside the shrine spoke. Footsteps could be heard, loud and clear, shaking the ground with each step that was taken.
“Oh…Dear.” PB said.
“Um…Guys…Something isn’t right.” Sumireko said, also getting a similar feeling like the others. Everyone readied themselves.
The doors of Moriya Shrine were wide open, as a figure walked out. Bare feet were shown, shining a golden yellow. Muscles were seen, big and toned from the calf of the legs to the pectorals of the chest. The shape of their body was almost godlike to the eyes of many.
They walked out of the building entirely, letting their face be revealed to all the others. Unlike the rest of his body though, his head resembled that of a goldfish. With a pair of big eyes on each side, big fish lips, and even scales which reflect on the sunlight.
In their hands, Kagerou and Wakasagihime were both being held; dragged out by their necks. They looked to have been beaten badly with bruises on their bodies and cuts on their clothes. Some of the members gasped as they saw who it was that seemed obviously to be the culprit of their wounds.
“What did you do to them!?” Meiling asked defensively.
“I just knocked them out. That’s all.” The figure said, dropping the two as he walked forward. “They intruded my resting quarters while I was napping, dreaming about glory and fame.”
“Who are you!?” Meiling asked again.
“And why do you have a fish head!?” Cirno said, asking the bigger questions.
Both her and Meiling rush at the figure with their weapons and their fists. They both striked the foe with might and fury for what happened to their friends. But as the smoke cleared, it was revealed that the figure, taking the full impact of Cirno’s Melon Blade and Meiling’s fist, remained standing perfectly fine.
Then during the small moment of confusion that the two bore towards their opponent, the fish-faced figure grabbed both Cirno and Meiling while also holding the previous two, and threw them both across the shrine grounds with great power! Meiling and Cirno crashed into the pavement, simultaneously being used as cushions for the wolf and the mermaid respectively.
“Meiling! Cirno!” Sumireko shouted. Mary and Satsujin both rush over to their friends, helping them up while checking to see if they sustained any major wounds.
Meanwhile, the figure hummed, looking around to see what he was presented with. He saw the majority looking human, but could tell that most of them were more than that. But upon laying eyes on PB, he smiled greatly.
“Ah, Peanut Butter. It’s been a while.” He spoke. “Last I saw you was back on Omnious, when my brother and I were this close to achieving our conquest.”
“...How?” PB asked carefully. “How did you return?”
“Wait, you know him?” Sumireko asked PB.
“I do.” PB answered. “He is a very powerful foe, known by his title as ‘The Omnipotent One’. A man who once tried to wipe out all three of the Mortal Realms after he and his brother agreed that the actions of the individual would lead to the downfall of all that is living.”
The Omnipotent One chuckled from PB’s statement about him. “That’s what mere mortals like to refer to me as. But for now, you may call me Simon.”
“Simon…Wait a second.” Sumireko thought for a moment. “Didn’t Sanae have a pet goldfish named Simon?”
“Correct naive child.” Simon said. “It is true, I once was kept as a mere pet fish by her and those two goddesses she claims are her ‘parents’.” He said while raising his hands to make quotation marks. “Before all of that though, I was a triumphant God; born and raised in the land of Omnious alongside many of my fellow deities.”
“But you were killed, we were there, Alena and I. You were supposed to be dead.” PB said in a more serious tone.
“Ah…But that’s the thing, Peanut Butter. I am a god, always have, always will.” Simon exclaimed. “I was reborn into the form of a man; grew up in a normal household and raised by two adults who believed in what was best for me. I was fortunate to have retained my memories and knowledge. In the following years I managed to position myself in a title of power and wealth, enjoying my days of careless wonder. Then one day, I was introduced to a man with both religious and political power, offering a unique kind of deal that anyone would accept in a heartbeat. There, I was engaged to a girl named Sanae Kochiya.”
“I could already tell that they were using her as an excuse to get more followers to their weakening cult, but I figured it wouldn’t hurt to have a person who I could use to my liking. So I decide to torture her; bringing home various bugs and creatures and watch her squirm all over the room while begging for it to stop. It reminded me of back home when we would take mortal men and throw them into the colosseum with lions, tigers, and bears.”
“Oh my.” Suika spouted suddenly, covering her mouth afterwards with her hands.
“Oh my indeed.” Simon said. “But alas, the fun didn’t last forever. There came a day when one of the creatures I brought got too close to her, one that contained a deadly poison in its fangs, and bit her…I was disappointed to watch her be taken down like that, especially since it was clear she had the blood of a god residing in her. But what I didn’t know was that I had accidentally angered an ancient god in the process. Thus, my form was reverted to that of a fish. A goldfish to be more specific.”
“And for years I was treated with harsh verbal tongue from both the Goddess of Wind and Rain and the Goddess of Mountains. They even managed to bring back that girl Sanae using a forbidden soul transfer ritual, turning her from a sad girl with mental trauma into the most happy-go-lucky kid I ever seen…Heh…Hahaha…Hahahahahahaha!” Simon started to laugh all of a sudden, making everyone else all the more confused on the matter as his laughter turned hysterical.
“HAHAHAHAHA!!! And all those years I had waited! Waited for the day that I would return to my full strength! Waited for when the stars would align, the planets in their right positions, the time being exactly right. Waited I did, and a reward I had received. With the thanks of a bolt of corrupted lighting I regained my power, and learned how to control the mishaguji that the ancient goddess left behind; the very beings who had given me that weak body to begin with!” He said, as a flurry of white snake-like beings manifested around Simon, waving like flames behind his back while looking down at everyone.
Simon gripped his hands tightly, flexing his arms to show his strength. “And with this new body, granted to me with the help of the powers of Hakurei, I now have a form to match my immense strength!”
“Hakurei? What do you mean?” PB asked, right as Simon decided to approach them with a bit of an unhinged look in their eyes.
“Don’t you get it? This was all planned from the very beginning! All of it!!! From the moment you all stepped onto that tram to move up the mountain you were already destined to meet me. And now you shall face me!” Simon said.
That was when it finally hit them. Sumireko and PB were the first to realize the situation that was put upon them: This was a trap no doubt, a very serious trap.
“We need to leave!!!” PB said as they went and allowed Sumireko to equip them to provide her extra power to evacuate. She dashed the opposite direction of where Simon stood, with PB yelling at everyone else to follow their lead as they knew staying any longer would only bring impending doom.
They ran down the shrine grounds as quickly as they could, but only for a few seconds before they collided with a barrier.
“Owie…” Sumireko checked to see if her face was okay. “A barrier?”
She pressed on it, the air felt like a solid surface. The others stopped as they approached, noticing they were now sealed in. Satsujin tried to phase through, but alas the moment he tried to push his arms through he was pushed back with a jolt of electricity. Suika made an attempt to convert her body into mist, but even in that form she was not able to pass through.
“This is like when we were at Hakurei Shrine.” Sumireko thought. “Then that would mean…”
She looked out the brand-new barrier, and saw Yuzuki with her hands out, and Demise standing alongside her.
“Ah, we meet again.” Demise said to the group. “I see you all met Simon? He’s a great fellow, knows his stuff well.”
“YOU!!!” Mary screamed, attempting to pierce through the barrier with her daggers. “Why the fuck is it always you everytime we go anywhere!?”
“Aw, I missed you too dear… A shame this may be our last meeting together.” Demise said. “But to the rest of you, best of luck.”
“What the hell do you mean our last meeting together!?” Mary asked, but Demise did not answer, making her more furious. “Hey… Hey! Answer me you prick! Get over here and let me carve you into a hollow corpse!”
The group looked back, seeing Simon standing there with a big fish-lipped smile on his face. He didn’t approach the group yet, almost seemingly waiting for them to come to him first.
“Ah…It’s been a while since I have been able to fight someone. This will be a good warmup.” He said, rolling his arms around as a large pair of blades fell from nowhere whilst he pulled them out from the ground. “Now… Which of you will be the first of my victims?”
2023.06.08 02:44 Sea_Alfalfa9787 upip intern
“Dear Students,
Please note the deadline to apply for UPIP 2310 (AY23/24 Sem 1 UPIP) is 23 Jun 2023.”
Hi can I check if this means that we just have to submit the qualtrics form by 23 June? Given the slow replies by FOS UPIP, I am afraid that I wouldn’t be able to confirm (confirmation meaning they agree to give me a talent connect placement) my upip spot by stated deadline…. I am also not sure if upip would accept my internship as a credit bearing one, since mine is self sourced. Has anyone ever got rejected by upip before?
thanks!
submitted by Sea_Alfalfa9787 to nus [link] [comments]
Please note the deadline to apply for UPIP 2310 (AY23/24 Sem 1 UPIP) is 23 Jun 2023.”
Hi can I check if this means that we just have to submit the qualtrics form by 23 June? Given the slow replies by FOS UPIP, I am afraid that I wouldn’t be able to confirm (confirmation meaning they agree to give me a talent connect placement) my upip spot by stated deadline…. I am also not sure if upip would accept my internship as a credit bearing one, since mine is self sourced. Has anyone ever got rejected by upip before?
thanks!
2023.06.08 02:30 Naive_Hippo68 My RtoV experience in London
Yesterday I attended the RtoV concert in London, so i decided to share my experience here!
I’ll start with the one con. So i traveled from Dublin to see the girls on the same day, and arrived at the venue around 2:30/3. I had wanted to buy a lightstick but found out on the way to the venue they were already sold out, which is just insane to me. Because they didn’t have enough during the concert there wasn’t a full ocean, which is disappointing to both the artist and the viewer. I ended up bringing some glowsticks with me so I could shine something, but would have rather had a mandubong. I hope the girls weren’t too disappointed with the missing lights, but we certainly cheered loudly for them for the entire duration of the concert to make up for it.
Anyways, the concert itself was just amazing. I got to my seat an hour and a half before the show started, and they were playing RV songs during this time as everyone slowly filed in and took pics with the stage. It was funny to hear people cheering and singing along to some of the songs, I particularly remember when Zimzalabim started the audience got really excited and sang along to the chorus, and I knew it would be even crazier during the encore.
A little after 8 we were still waiting, but heard Wendy going “Ah ah” into the mic and everyone screamed, and it really hit me that the girls were right behind the curtain about to come out. The show finally kicked off around 8:15, starting with the amazing backup dancers. They were so great throughout the show, bringing a lot of energy. The dresses for the first segment were just beautiful too, pink and sparkly and each member looked so eye catching. The outfits did not disappoint, each look fit to the segment and songs so well and complimented the girls.
The ments were a lot of fun, they seemed so relaxed and happy, especially Wendy, she definitely knows what to say and how to carry herself. Her and Yeri made some attempts at a British accent too, which was hilarious. Yeri got a lot of love from the audience, loud cheers everytime she appeared on screen and everyone chanting her name. She was very shy too. Irene is soo soft spoken in person and her eyes really shone looking at us. She is very professional when she performs. And Seulgi is just insanely talented, she was so cute during the encore stages, interacting with the audience, which is something they all did very well too. They just all have a warming energy about them and i could feel so much love in the room from the moment they stepped out! They didn’t show one sign of tiredness, and really brought their all to every song.
Wendy said during rehearsal she was afraid that the empty seats wouldn’t be filled up, but as Feel My Rhythm started and she turned to face the audience, the sight of a fully packed audience shocked her enough to struggle keeping her composure. I’m so happy so many reveluvs showed up even with the rushed ticketing process, the girls truly deserve this much love and more. (sm give them bigger venues!!!!)
I wish Joy could have attended all the shows, especially as she is my bias. While the girls filled her absence seamlessly, and she was shown on the screen from time to time for her parts, it still felt odd seeing them as 4, and along with the pcd i have the day after i miss joy a lot!! i hope she is okay and recovering quickly.
Before the encore, they announced there were “2 more songs left” and Wendy added on, “but, y’know…” and after the girls were walking off after Psycho telling us to “call them”, Russian Roulette kicked in out of nowhere and they came running back out, followed by Zimzalabim and You Better Know. the encore was truly a highlight, it felt like a real energy was filling the room even bigger than before and everyone was up and dancing, even us in the seating areas. they looked like they were genuinely having fun too. seulgi stepped on a panda bear at some point and then picked it up and started mothering it. zimzalabim was just insane live, everyone jumping and chanting like a cult. you better know was such a perfect way to end the show.
They said goodbye to each and every corner of the room, bowing to each section and thanking everyone for coming. they promised to come back as 5, so i hope to see them here again soon. as a fan of red velvet for 8 years, I am beyond thrilled I got to experience their concert at last, and they put on quite a show.
That’s all that sticks out in my mind, if anyone has some questions I’d be happy answering! Thanks for reading luvies <3
submitted by Naive_Hippo68 to red_velvet [link] [comments]
I’ll start with the one con. So i traveled from Dublin to see the girls on the same day, and arrived at the venue around 2:30/3. I had wanted to buy a lightstick but found out on the way to the venue they were already sold out, which is just insane to me. Because they didn’t have enough during the concert there wasn’t a full ocean, which is disappointing to both the artist and the viewer. I ended up bringing some glowsticks with me so I could shine something, but would have rather had a mandubong. I hope the girls weren’t too disappointed with the missing lights, but we certainly cheered loudly for them for the entire duration of the concert to make up for it.
Anyways, the concert itself was just amazing. I got to my seat an hour and a half before the show started, and they were playing RV songs during this time as everyone slowly filed in and took pics with the stage. It was funny to hear people cheering and singing along to some of the songs, I particularly remember when Zimzalabim started the audience got really excited and sang along to the chorus, and I knew it would be even crazier during the encore.
A little after 8 we were still waiting, but heard Wendy going “Ah ah” into the mic and everyone screamed, and it really hit me that the girls were right behind the curtain about to come out. The show finally kicked off around 8:15, starting with the amazing backup dancers. They were so great throughout the show, bringing a lot of energy. The dresses for the first segment were just beautiful too, pink and sparkly and each member looked so eye catching. The outfits did not disappoint, each look fit to the segment and songs so well and complimented the girls.
The ments were a lot of fun, they seemed so relaxed and happy, especially Wendy, she definitely knows what to say and how to carry herself. Her and Yeri made some attempts at a British accent too, which was hilarious. Yeri got a lot of love from the audience, loud cheers everytime she appeared on screen and everyone chanting her name. She was very shy too. Irene is soo soft spoken in person and her eyes really shone looking at us. She is very professional when she performs. And Seulgi is just insanely talented, she was so cute during the encore stages, interacting with the audience, which is something they all did very well too. They just all have a warming energy about them and i could feel so much love in the room from the moment they stepped out! They didn’t show one sign of tiredness, and really brought their all to every song.
Wendy said during rehearsal she was afraid that the empty seats wouldn’t be filled up, but as Feel My Rhythm started and she turned to face the audience, the sight of a fully packed audience shocked her enough to struggle keeping her composure. I’m so happy so many reveluvs showed up even with the rushed ticketing process, the girls truly deserve this much love and more. (sm give them bigger venues!!!!)
I wish Joy could have attended all the shows, especially as she is my bias. While the girls filled her absence seamlessly, and she was shown on the screen from time to time for her parts, it still felt odd seeing them as 4, and along with the pcd i have the day after i miss joy a lot!! i hope she is okay and recovering quickly.
Before the encore, they announced there were “2 more songs left” and Wendy added on, “but, y’know…” and after the girls were walking off after Psycho telling us to “call them”, Russian Roulette kicked in out of nowhere and they came running back out, followed by Zimzalabim and You Better Know. the encore was truly a highlight, it felt like a real energy was filling the room even bigger than before and everyone was up and dancing, even us in the seating areas. they looked like they were genuinely having fun too. seulgi stepped on a panda bear at some point and then picked it up and started mothering it. zimzalabim was just insane live, everyone jumping and chanting like a cult. you better know was such a perfect way to end the show.
They said goodbye to each and every corner of the room, bowing to each section and thanking everyone for coming. they promised to come back as 5, so i hope to see them here again soon. as a fan of red velvet for 8 years, I am beyond thrilled I got to experience their concert at last, and they put on quite a show.
That’s all that sticks out in my mind, if anyone has some questions I’d be happy answering! Thanks for reading luvies <3
2023.06.08 02:28 queenofthescreen [Thank You] Whaddya give a sick lemon? Lemon-aid. How did lemon greet lime? Sour you doing? What did papa pear tree say to his kid pear tree too afraid to grow his first fruit? Son, grow a pear. How do oranges do well in school? They concentrate. Usain bolt must be a fruit-have you seen that mango?
https://imgur.com/a/pUCwPZf
u/unseenbowl x 2 It was sooooo sweet of you to think of me with the pretty Monet flair congrats postcard!!!! Can’t wait for your flair dreams to come true too! Thank you for this super insanely adorable jungle-themed Wild About You V-Day card (arrived oddly late) and OMG WHAAAAAT?!? A MAGICAL MATCHING SHEET OF SWEEEEEEET STICKERS?!?! Is this witchcraft?!? I didn’t know that this type of card magic existed - it’s like you threw a party in a card, my sweet little unseenbowl. And even the interior of the envelope is all decked out in colorful hearts!!!! Solid color on one side but then this heart-tastic little secret just for my eyes only?!?!? Dude no one else gets to attend this party but me!!! And let’s do something about this you not being seen, because you’re honestly the cutest bowl I have NEVER seen but I want to see you. I see you, you sweet little bowl. I affirm your existence & your majesty! What kinda bowl are you anyway, sweetheart? A cereal bowl? An I’ll-eat-ramen-keto-be-damned kinda bowl that’s super deep & lets me soak my worries away? No matter what type of bowl you are, I wish for you to be seen & appreciated!!!
u/omggallout x 2 Thank you for the gorgeous watercolor floral card - such a stunning treat!!! I really like the artist’s talent in layering. I TOTALLY agree about the house thing - I feel the same way & wish we both had our dream houses now!! LOVE the gorgeous mint green crocheted butterfly - WOW!!! Your fine fiber arts skills are sooooo insanely impressive! Thank you for the stickers & the heartbreakingly adorable Winnie-the-Pooh postcard of Winnie gazing at himself in the mirror - I love it!!!! I really enjoyed the fun fact that the original Pooh was purchased at Harrods - I had no idea he was so flippin’ fancy!!! Wishing you a fabulously fancy spring & your dream home super soon, kind friend!
u/MarineWife0922 x 3 So sweet of you to think of me with my ADORABLE flair congrats card!!! It’s sooo cute & totally my style - I LOVE vintage kid illustrations!!! It’s gorgeous - I’d love to know where I can find cards in the same set please!!!! Thanks also for the *adorable* “Thinking of You” cards with the cute illustrated girl & flowers! I LOVE how you wrote so much you didn’t leave any white space in the cards hahaha! Thanks for sharing your fun personality & quirky thoughts with me! I loved hearing how dance has been therapeutic for you - that’s so beautiful. The blue raspberries bit - LMAO!
u/StrangeMailings Thank you for the awesome cryptic postcard with the fun mystery paint job & creepy cool sticker! So fun to see the strange get stranger & cooler by the card LOL!!
u/clashvalley Thank you for the sweet Night-Blooming Cereus card - and what a delight that there was no white space left with all your awesome words!!! Also love the sweet floral sticker, thank you!! I loved how much you taught me about faeries - wow, I knew nothing about them, & it was fascinating to learn! I’ll bet your essay is awesome & that the teacher loved your work. :) It made me giggle to learn about the faeries “who enjoy punishing humans” LOL!!! Wishing you only the pleasant faeries who gift you delicious custard creams & bless you!!!
u/StrawberryForestLady Thank you for the neat vintage cactus postcard & your kind thoughts - love the illustration. =) Wishing you a thorn-free spring!
u/ninajyang x 2 Thank you so much for the surprise birthday card with the beautiful gift of sweet stickers!!! I was so touched you thought of me. I wish I could describe the card more to sing its praises but I’m writing this from memory as I don’t have the card with me (apologies no pic of this one). You made me feel super loved with your encouraging words. I can only hope to inspire people as much as you have, darling soul!! Thank you for the cool In & Out retro illustrated ad postcard - I always stare adoringly at their retro pics in the restaurant! I also love the 8 billion fruity, vintage-y stamps you used!! =) Hope you’re having a sunny & sweet spring (more thank yous pending, Beautiful!)
u/LadyLili13 x 2 Thank you for the gorgeous pastel postcards with the cool 3D effect of clouds & the super pretty sky!!! I loved hearing about your passion for Pathfinder. I’ve never played it before but now you have me so curious! Hearing about the character wedding making your sweet “heart sing” was so touching!! I just adore your sentimental heart! The stickers you included - OMG to-die-for. The dilapidated teddy bear sticker is my absolute fave!!! Thank you so much for thinking of me, you’re always so thoughtful, Darlin’!! Wishing you lots of joy as you continue to play your games! =)
u/shipping_addict Thank you for the gorgeous Yoshida postcard with the awesome crunchy salad recipe. BTW I did not deface the beautiful card with the black marker - I want to kill USPS. I honestly don’t understand what the heck they’re doing. OMG this salad is so my style & reminds me of my Blueberry Brainiac salad (will share it asap). Can’t wait to try it!
u/scared_deerfox x 3 Your beautiful, bouncy energy came roaring through your sweet envelope!! Thanks for the adorable card of the smooching bunny & baby chick!!! The stickers you used to decorate the card are so adorable too. You are SO deep - loved the way you responded to the bunny carrot nightmare prompt! Wow. Loved the analogy you used of the clouds & the blue sky. So sweet!!! I hope your friends & family appreciate your super kind, compassionate nature. Also love the Finding Nemo card & all the precious stickers you included. The smiling stars are just little dolls! I also love the mesmerizing Pacman Nebula postcard with the Chat GPT response to the prompt - that was so fun & surprisingly normal LOL!! I appreciate your kindnesses & hope that you have the most splendid spring full of fabulous flowers!
u/Accomplished_Hope788 Thank you so much for the absolutely ADORABLE “You Make my Heart Beet” postcard of the illustrated beet & the pretty floral sticker! The card is so delightful - the happy vibes from you & the card are jumping out at me! I totally agree about Deja Vu - it’s totally an otherworldly experience & is both baffling & beautiful.
u/BlacksmithEquivalent x 2 Thank you so much for thinking of me with the beautiful birthday card with fun wishes & the San Diego postcard! Plllleaaaase no apologies for sending the wishes out late - in fact, it’s an awesome feeling to receive birthday greetings at random non-birthday days LOL! I really like the cute illustration of the turtle carrying the gifts. Adorable. Wow - I’ll bet living in super hip San Diego is a total treat. I wish I could leave my state for cooler weather & cooler things to do. Wishing you sunny serenity in San Diego!
u/KeenEvergreen Thank you for the ADORABLE Easter pickle card!!! Soooo insanely cute!!! It was fun to see a unique, bunny-less take on Easter lol! Love the stickers you used to decorate the envelope. It was also a sweet surprise to receive the Perennial seed mix - how neat, thank you! My niece will love using these this spring. =) Hope your spring is sweet & serene!
u/Kuddledeadgirl Thank you for having such a fun username which always makes me giggle hahaha! Thanks also for the lovely book recommendations on the scenic Michigan postcard! I highly recommend “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles - he’s a brilliant writer. Wishing you happy reads!
u/cake-at-midnight Thank you for the sweet thank you card - it was my pleasure to think of you on your birthday! The donkey sanctuary sounds so cool & peaceful! LOVED your hand-drawn orange flowers on the envelope & your gorgeous calligraphy of my name!!! Thanks also for the awesome stickers - the mail-themed ones especially speak to my heart! Hope you have a blast at your next sanctuary visit. :)
u/retrorabbit79 Thank you for the hilarious bird insult postcard - “See you whenever the f%$& I come back to this sh#thole!” Hahaha, so appropriate to say to my dumb family! ;)
u/lunatenchi_ Thank you so much for the super inspiring handmade “You can influence the world” card! Lilac is one of my favorite colors! It’s so peaceful. You decorated the card with such fun stickers. =) I just love the kindness affirmations you shared! Here are a few affirmations for you on one of my fave topics, creativity. “I effortlessly connect with the universe's boundless inventiveness.” “Every day, creative energy runs through me.” “The universe's creativity manifests itself through me.” “Fresh ideas are constantly flowing to me. I am overflowing with creative energy.” Wishing you creativity in all its forms, sweet friend! Also love the Finding Nemo card & all the precious stickers you included. The smiling stars are just little dolls! I also love the mesmerizing Pacman Nebula postcard with the Chat GPT response to the prompt - that was so fun & surprisingly normal LOL!! I appreciate your kindnesses & hope that you have the most splendid spring full of fabulous flowers!
u/Chip-girl I’m so in love with this adorable, awesome homemade fabulous fruit card!!! Smiling fruit just makes my day!! Your art is so gorgeous - I’m so happy you sent it to me!!! I really like the creative way you cut out the border surrounding the fruit - this is such a neat way to make a card instantly fancy! And the way you wrote my address on the envelope is simply stunning - it’s insanely impressive! Hope you have a gorgeous spring!!
u/eccentric_bee x 2 THANKS A MILLION for this absolutely stunning, super beautiful watercolor robot art card!!!! LOVE all the colors & the beautiful quote you wrote. I also love the size - so perfect. Leave it to you & your incredible talent to bring a robot to life!!! The expression on his face is so amazingly human it seems like he just can’t be a machine & that he actually has a beating heart! That kind of skill takes such a brilliant artist!! Thanks also for the super soothing watercolor plant art card!! These cards make me so very happy. Thank you for thinking of me - these beauties are going straight into my art journal!! Wishing you lots of joy & peace as you continue your amazing art work!
u/Ohio_Geo HAHAHA thank you for the hilarious “F#%& off” card with the quirky cool stickers/memo sheets & the “F” word wood cut-out LOL I can’t wait to send it to a lucky friend!!! Love your sense of humor!! Hope you “F&$% off” too! ;)
u/specialist-chapter89 x 2 THIS GORGEOUS SHAKER BIRTHDAY CARD made my day!!!! THANK YOU!!! I'm so sorry I can't praise it more - long story but I don't have the card with me right now to thank you properly. I just recall it being a feast for the eyes - super pretty!! It really made my birthday so special to receive your warm sentiments & all the love you sent along with it!! I LOVE the handmade “Hello” card with the awesome quotes from Tusa- Karol G & Nicki Minaj & Flowers-Miley Cyrus! THANK YOU! I also love your elegant handwriting so much! Thanks also for the fun stickers!
u/loopyboops707 Thank you for the super cute homemade EasteSpring card! So much energy & positive vibes coming at me, thank you!!! Love all the scrapbooking bits & fun stickers you used to decorate the bright card! Thanks also for the lovely stickers you included. Wishing you a glorious, gorgeous spring, sweet friend!
u/GreetingCardShark x 2 Thank you for the cute birthday cake card & the sweet wishes - I so appreciate your lovely thoughts!! Thank you so much also for thinking of me with the sweet “Hooray” card in honor of my new flair! I really appreciate your thoughtfulness. I also learned a lot from your card about how to jazz up card decorations - the yellow highlighting trick is soooo neat! It really looks like you sent me fireworks - I just love the effect!!!
u/kimkimMRW x 2 Thank you for the beautiful Andy Warhol postcards!!!! The Campbell’s Soup card is absolutely awesome - I love the colors!! The decorative “Lotus” stamp you used is also lovely! The way you decorated the envelope with the fun stickers & banana-themed washi is also super cool. :) Hilarious “I know where you live” sticker - hahahaha!! Love it. Wishing you an artsy, awesome spring, kind friend.
u/GuestBathroom Hahaha love your quirky username & your amazing handwriting - it’s PERFECT! Thank you so much for the gorgeous vintage stamp postcard. I love the way you decorated the card with all the fun vintage stamps! I also enjoyed hearing about your affinity for the color purple - it’s such a soothing, elegant color. I love how that color is associated with royalty. Wishing you a sweet spring with perfectly purple flowers!
u/BirdieBennet x 2 This. GORGEOUS! STUNNINGLY BEAUTIFUL “Birthday Loops” birthday card is undoubtedly one of the G.O.A.T. cards in my collection! This card made me so insanely happy - the bright colors & the super sweet, jazzy illustration is the epitome of what I love in a card!!!! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!! I also went bonkers for the awesome, adorable kitty postcard to gift on -I just looove your taste in cards!!! Thank you also for the sweet stickers & cuuute memo sheets!! How you decorated the envelope with the pretty pastel washi tape & your perfect, pretty handwriting made me so happy too - you made my birthday insanely special, kind friend! Thank you for the super elegant “Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May” postcard - what a stunning illustration!!! I also like how the artist incorporated a mirror behind the subject - it adds such depth to the card. I loved hearing about how you laugh daily & your funny mom - of course she is so very proud of you!!! I also love the pretty pastel nature scene (I’m obsessed with this series) & desk scene postcards you included. I wish you endless laughter - here are some jokes for you. What has more lives than a cat? A frog, because it croaks every day. Why was the fish’s grades bad? They were below sea level. What’s Forrest Gump’s password? 1forrest1 (hahaha I LOVE this one!!)
u/maiiiu Thank you so much for the jazzy homemade card - as always, your positivity & beautiful nature come blasting through this sweetie!! The beachy vibes are so soothing. =) Thanks also for the adorable stickers you sent - I really love the creative tip of pasting them into the card with washi tape! That’s a great way to ensure they’re not flying around everywhere!
u/lifesucks_F Thank you for the sweet homemade constellation card - I really love the color combo of purple & pink! And the joke is hilarious too!!! Here’s one for you. Why was Cinderella so bad at playing soccer? She kept running away from the ball. ;)
u/snerdboff x 2 Thanks for the adorable handmade ice cream “You are quite the beauty” card! What a pretty chandelier on that scrapbooking paper. :) This fun card is a great example for me to use the next time I use scrapbooking paper as a card base. So elegant & I love the way you made it a flip from the top card. =) Thanks also for the handmade food truck themed card - it’s so fun!! Mmmmm, hot dogs & soda are always fun no matter the season. You did a great job using up all your leftover scrapbooking bits. :) Wishing you a sweet spring!
u/morenoodles Thank you for the Burbank postcard with the delicious carb conversation LOL! You have amazing taste in carbs, fine friend. If you’re into buttery flaky crusts, I highly suggest the Portuguese flaky-crusted treat “Pastel De Nata” - ever tried them? TO DIE FOR!!!! I became hooked on them in Portugal & although the ones at Trader Joe’s (marketed as “Portuguese Custard Tarts”) don’t compare, they are definitely delicious & I recommend them! Wishing you the creamiest of carbs!!
u/draftyelectrolyte Thanks for the neat-o Maine postcard with the lovely illustrations which REALLY makes me wanna come check out Maine asap! I also love the Jamie Wyeth quote you included. I’ve always been intrigued by Maine from everything I’ve heard & especially when authors write about it. So I appreciate the inspiration & your kindness! Wishing you beautiful balmy breezes this spring!
u/56Thorns x 2 Thank you for the “awwwww” inducing illustrated kitty cards!!! Sooooooo mindblowingly cuuuuute! The kitty wedding card is just…so cute it hurts!!! I love the whimsical style & fun colors for the card. The surprise bonus postcard of the kitty lounging in the potted plant is hilarious & super sweet! I love your taste in art. =) Thanks also for the big beautiful kitty sticker & the kitty-themed party napkin - so festive!!! Wishing you lots of joy & peace this spring, kind soul!
u/fancykiddens x 2 My fancy fine fabulous friend!!!! Thank you for the ***literally sweet*** Candy Heaven postcard - love the stickers you used to decorate!!! And I love your sweet handwriting! How sweet you are is apparent from this card! Thank you for the cuuuute doggie card with all the cute stickers!!! I LOVE your handwriting!!! Most of all, I love your constant positivity - I actually feel those rays of sunshine you’re bouncing to me all the way from your sunny state!!! Sending lots of love (and a promise to catch up asap).
u/on1omaniac Thank you for the adorable “Star meets little prince” postcard with your gorgeous handwriting! Your penmanship is soooo nice & even - how do you do it?!??!? It’s art!!! I also love the “Bear Mail” stamp you used. Adorable. And what a huge heart you have, sacrificing your alien love for all your loved ones! Wishing you a spring full of limitless (human haha) love!!
u/RitaAlbertson Thank you for the adorable handmade zebra-themed birthday card & your kind wishes!! Soooo cute! I appreciate you thinking of me on my big day. :) Wishing you a fabulous spring!
u/championvilla Thank you so much for the cool Carlsbad Caverns National Park postcard in honor of my birthday! Love the Alice in Wonderland rabbit sticker you used for the birthday proclamation - so clever & cute! I really appreciate you thinking of me on my birthday - thanks again!!! =) Wishing you a super spring!
u/RideThatBridge Thank you for the adorable vintage Easter postcard! And OMG this joke is AWESOME!!! “What do you call a Zen egg? An OMMMMMMM LET.” Hahahaha!!! Thank you for the sweet card & the awesome laugh!!! I also love the bunny-themed washi in fun colors & the bunny sticker you used. Hope you’re having a syrupy sweet spring, sweet friend (so many more thank-yous due, sweetcakes - posted about my drama in meta).
u/melhen16 Thank you for the pretty pastel Earth Day postcard with your kind wishes & the fun stickers!
submitted by queenofthescreen to RandomActsofCards [link] [comments]
u/unseenbowl x 2 It was sooooo sweet of you to think of me with the pretty Monet flair congrats postcard!!!! Can’t wait for your flair dreams to come true too! Thank you for this super insanely adorable jungle-themed Wild About You V-Day card (arrived oddly late) and OMG WHAAAAAT?!? A MAGICAL MATCHING SHEET OF SWEEEEEEET STICKERS?!?! Is this witchcraft?!? I didn’t know that this type of card magic existed - it’s like you threw a party in a card, my sweet little unseenbowl. And even the interior of the envelope is all decked out in colorful hearts!!!! Solid color on one side but then this heart-tastic little secret just for my eyes only?!?!? Dude no one else gets to attend this party but me!!! And let’s do something about this you not being seen, because you’re honestly the cutest bowl I have NEVER seen but I want to see you. I see you, you sweet little bowl. I affirm your existence & your majesty! What kinda bowl are you anyway, sweetheart? A cereal bowl? An I’ll-eat-ramen-keto-be-damned kinda bowl that’s super deep & lets me soak my worries away? No matter what type of bowl you are, I wish for you to be seen & appreciated!!!
u/omggallout x 2 Thank you for the gorgeous watercolor floral card - such a stunning treat!!! I really like the artist’s talent in layering. I TOTALLY agree about the house thing - I feel the same way & wish we both had our dream houses now!! LOVE the gorgeous mint green crocheted butterfly - WOW!!! Your fine fiber arts skills are sooooo insanely impressive! Thank you for the stickers & the heartbreakingly adorable Winnie-the-Pooh postcard of Winnie gazing at himself in the mirror - I love it!!!! I really enjoyed the fun fact that the original Pooh was purchased at Harrods - I had no idea he was so flippin’ fancy!!! Wishing you a fabulously fancy spring & your dream home super soon, kind friend!
u/MarineWife0922 x 3 So sweet of you to think of me with my ADORABLE flair congrats card!!! It’s sooo cute & totally my style - I LOVE vintage kid illustrations!!! It’s gorgeous - I’d love to know where I can find cards in the same set please!!!! Thanks also for the *adorable* “Thinking of You” cards with the cute illustrated girl & flowers! I LOVE how you wrote so much you didn’t leave any white space in the cards hahaha! Thanks for sharing your fun personality & quirky thoughts with me! I loved hearing how dance has been therapeutic for you - that’s so beautiful. The blue raspberries bit - LMAO!
u/StrangeMailings Thank you for the awesome cryptic postcard with the fun mystery paint job & creepy cool sticker! So fun to see the strange get stranger & cooler by the card LOL!!
u/clashvalley Thank you for the sweet Night-Blooming Cereus card - and what a delight that there was no white space left with all your awesome words!!! Also love the sweet floral sticker, thank you!! I loved how much you taught me about faeries - wow, I knew nothing about them, & it was fascinating to learn! I’ll bet your essay is awesome & that the teacher loved your work. :) It made me giggle to learn about the faeries “who enjoy punishing humans” LOL!!! Wishing you only the pleasant faeries who gift you delicious custard creams & bless you!!!
u/StrawberryForestLady Thank you for the neat vintage cactus postcard & your kind thoughts - love the illustration. =) Wishing you a thorn-free spring!
u/ninajyang x 2 Thank you so much for the surprise birthday card with the beautiful gift of sweet stickers!!! I was so touched you thought of me. I wish I could describe the card more to sing its praises but I’m writing this from memory as I don’t have the card with me (apologies no pic of this one). You made me feel super loved with your encouraging words. I can only hope to inspire people as much as you have, darling soul!! Thank you for the cool In & Out retro illustrated ad postcard - I always stare adoringly at their retro pics in the restaurant! I also love the 8 billion fruity, vintage-y stamps you used!! =) Hope you’re having a sunny & sweet spring (more thank yous pending, Beautiful!)
u/LadyLili13 x 2 Thank you for the gorgeous pastel postcards with the cool 3D effect of clouds & the super pretty sky!!! I loved hearing about your passion for Pathfinder. I’ve never played it before but now you have me so curious! Hearing about the character wedding making your sweet “heart sing” was so touching!! I just adore your sentimental heart! The stickers you included - OMG to-die-for. The dilapidated teddy bear sticker is my absolute fave!!! Thank you so much for thinking of me, you’re always so thoughtful, Darlin’!! Wishing you lots of joy as you continue to play your games! =)
u/shipping_addict Thank you for the gorgeous Yoshida postcard with the awesome crunchy salad recipe. BTW I did not deface the beautiful card with the black marker - I want to kill USPS. I honestly don’t understand what the heck they’re doing. OMG this salad is so my style & reminds me of my Blueberry Brainiac salad (will share it asap). Can’t wait to try it!
u/scared_deerfox x 3 Your beautiful, bouncy energy came roaring through your sweet envelope!! Thanks for the adorable card of the smooching bunny & baby chick!!! The stickers you used to decorate the card are so adorable too. You are SO deep - loved the way you responded to the bunny carrot nightmare prompt! Wow. Loved the analogy you used of the clouds & the blue sky. So sweet!!! I hope your friends & family appreciate your super kind, compassionate nature. Also love the Finding Nemo card & all the precious stickers you included. The smiling stars are just little dolls! I also love the mesmerizing Pacman Nebula postcard with the Chat GPT response to the prompt - that was so fun & surprisingly normal LOL!! I appreciate your kindnesses & hope that you have the most splendid spring full of fabulous flowers!
u/Accomplished_Hope788 Thank you so much for the absolutely ADORABLE “You Make my Heart Beet” postcard of the illustrated beet & the pretty floral sticker! The card is so delightful - the happy vibes from you & the card are jumping out at me! I totally agree about Deja Vu - it’s totally an otherworldly experience & is both baffling & beautiful.
u/BlacksmithEquivalent x 2 Thank you so much for thinking of me with the beautiful birthday card with fun wishes & the San Diego postcard! Plllleaaaase no apologies for sending the wishes out late - in fact, it’s an awesome feeling to receive birthday greetings at random non-birthday days LOL! I really like the cute illustration of the turtle carrying the gifts. Adorable. Wow - I’ll bet living in super hip San Diego is a total treat. I wish I could leave my state for cooler weather & cooler things to do. Wishing you sunny serenity in San Diego!
u/KeenEvergreen Thank you for the ADORABLE Easter pickle card!!! Soooo insanely cute!!! It was fun to see a unique, bunny-less take on Easter lol! Love the stickers you used to decorate the envelope. It was also a sweet surprise to receive the Perennial seed mix - how neat, thank you! My niece will love using these this spring. =) Hope your spring is sweet & serene!
u/Kuddledeadgirl Thank you for having such a fun username which always makes me giggle hahaha! Thanks also for the lovely book recommendations on the scenic Michigan postcard! I highly recommend “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles - he’s a brilliant writer. Wishing you happy reads!
u/cake-at-midnight Thank you for the sweet thank you card - it was my pleasure to think of you on your birthday! The donkey sanctuary sounds so cool & peaceful! LOVED your hand-drawn orange flowers on the envelope & your gorgeous calligraphy of my name!!! Thanks also for the awesome stickers - the mail-themed ones especially speak to my heart! Hope you have a blast at your next sanctuary visit. :)
u/retrorabbit79 Thank you for the hilarious bird insult postcard - “See you whenever the f%$& I come back to this sh#thole!” Hahaha, so appropriate to say to my dumb family! ;)
u/lunatenchi_ Thank you so much for the super inspiring handmade “You can influence the world” card! Lilac is one of my favorite colors! It’s so peaceful. You decorated the card with such fun stickers. =) I just love the kindness affirmations you shared! Here are a few affirmations for you on one of my fave topics, creativity. “I effortlessly connect with the universe's boundless inventiveness.” “Every day, creative energy runs through me.” “The universe's creativity manifests itself through me.” “Fresh ideas are constantly flowing to me. I am overflowing with creative energy.” Wishing you creativity in all its forms, sweet friend! Also love the Finding Nemo card & all the precious stickers you included. The smiling stars are just little dolls! I also love the mesmerizing Pacman Nebula postcard with the Chat GPT response to the prompt - that was so fun & surprisingly normal LOL!! I appreciate your kindnesses & hope that you have the most splendid spring full of fabulous flowers!
u/Chip-girl I’m so in love with this adorable, awesome homemade fabulous fruit card!!! Smiling fruit just makes my day!! Your art is so gorgeous - I’m so happy you sent it to me!!! I really like the creative way you cut out the border surrounding the fruit - this is such a neat way to make a card instantly fancy! And the way you wrote my address on the envelope is simply stunning - it’s insanely impressive! Hope you have a gorgeous spring!!
u/eccentric_bee x 2 THANKS A MILLION for this absolutely stunning, super beautiful watercolor robot art card!!!! LOVE all the colors & the beautiful quote you wrote. I also love the size - so perfect. Leave it to you & your incredible talent to bring a robot to life!!! The expression on his face is so amazingly human it seems like he just can’t be a machine & that he actually has a beating heart! That kind of skill takes such a brilliant artist!! Thanks also for the super soothing watercolor plant art card!! These cards make me so very happy. Thank you for thinking of me - these beauties are going straight into my art journal!! Wishing you lots of joy & peace as you continue your amazing art work!
u/Ohio_Geo HAHAHA thank you for the hilarious “F#%& off” card with the quirky cool stickers/memo sheets & the “F” word wood cut-out LOL I can’t wait to send it to a lucky friend!!! Love your sense of humor!! Hope you “F&$% off” too! ;)
u/specialist-chapter89 x 2 THIS GORGEOUS SHAKER BIRTHDAY CARD made my day!!!! THANK YOU!!! I'm so sorry I can't praise it more - long story but I don't have the card with me right now to thank you properly. I just recall it being a feast for the eyes - super pretty!! It really made my birthday so special to receive your warm sentiments & all the love you sent along with it!! I LOVE the handmade “Hello” card with the awesome quotes from Tusa- Karol G & Nicki Minaj & Flowers-Miley Cyrus! THANK YOU! I also love your elegant handwriting so much! Thanks also for the fun stickers!
u/loopyboops707 Thank you for the super cute homemade EasteSpring card! So much energy & positive vibes coming at me, thank you!!! Love all the scrapbooking bits & fun stickers you used to decorate the bright card! Thanks also for the lovely stickers you included. Wishing you a glorious, gorgeous spring, sweet friend!
u/GreetingCardShark x 2 Thank you for the cute birthday cake card & the sweet wishes - I so appreciate your lovely thoughts!! Thank you so much also for thinking of me with the sweet “Hooray” card in honor of my new flair! I really appreciate your thoughtfulness. I also learned a lot from your card about how to jazz up card decorations - the yellow highlighting trick is soooo neat! It really looks like you sent me fireworks - I just love the effect!!!
u/kimkimMRW x 2 Thank you for the beautiful Andy Warhol postcards!!!! The Campbell’s Soup card is absolutely awesome - I love the colors!! The decorative “Lotus” stamp you used is also lovely! The way you decorated the envelope with the fun stickers & banana-themed washi is also super cool. :) Hilarious “I know where you live” sticker - hahahaha!! Love it. Wishing you an artsy, awesome spring, kind friend.
u/GuestBathroom Hahaha love your quirky username & your amazing handwriting - it’s PERFECT! Thank you so much for the gorgeous vintage stamp postcard. I love the way you decorated the card with all the fun vintage stamps! I also enjoyed hearing about your affinity for the color purple - it’s such a soothing, elegant color. I love how that color is associated with royalty. Wishing you a sweet spring with perfectly purple flowers!
u/BirdieBennet x 2 This. GORGEOUS! STUNNINGLY BEAUTIFUL “Birthday Loops” birthday card is undoubtedly one of the G.O.A.T. cards in my collection! This card made me so insanely happy - the bright colors & the super sweet, jazzy illustration is the epitome of what I love in a card!!!! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!! I also went bonkers for the awesome, adorable kitty postcard to gift on -I just looove your taste in cards!!! Thank you also for the sweet stickers & cuuute memo sheets!! How you decorated the envelope with the pretty pastel washi tape & your perfect, pretty handwriting made me so happy too - you made my birthday insanely special, kind friend! Thank you for the super elegant “Gather Ye Rosebuds While Ye May” postcard - what a stunning illustration!!! I also like how the artist incorporated a mirror behind the subject - it adds such depth to the card. I loved hearing about how you laugh daily & your funny mom - of course she is so very proud of you!!! I also love the pretty pastel nature scene (I’m obsessed with this series) & desk scene postcards you included. I wish you endless laughter - here are some jokes for you. What has more lives than a cat? A frog, because it croaks every day. Why was the fish’s grades bad? They were below sea level. What’s Forrest Gump’s password? 1forrest1 (hahaha I LOVE this one!!)
u/maiiiu Thank you so much for the jazzy homemade card - as always, your positivity & beautiful nature come blasting through this sweetie!! The beachy vibes are so soothing. =) Thanks also for the adorable stickers you sent - I really love the creative tip of pasting them into the card with washi tape! That’s a great way to ensure they’re not flying around everywhere!
u/lifesucks_F Thank you for the sweet homemade constellation card - I really love the color combo of purple & pink! And the joke is hilarious too!!! Here’s one for you. Why was Cinderella so bad at playing soccer? She kept running away from the ball. ;)
u/snerdboff x 2 Thanks for the adorable handmade ice cream “You are quite the beauty” card! What a pretty chandelier on that scrapbooking paper. :) This fun card is a great example for me to use the next time I use scrapbooking paper as a card base. So elegant & I love the way you made it a flip from the top card. =) Thanks also for the handmade food truck themed card - it’s so fun!! Mmmmm, hot dogs & soda are always fun no matter the season. You did a great job using up all your leftover scrapbooking bits. :) Wishing you a sweet spring!
u/morenoodles Thank you for the Burbank postcard with the delicious carb conversation LOL! You have amazing taste in carbs, fine friend. If you’re into buttery flaky crusts, I highly suggest the Portuguese flaky-crusted treat “Pastel De Nata” - ever tried them? TO DIE FOR!!!! I became hooked on them in Portugal & although the ones at Trader Joe’s (marketed as “Portuguese Custard Tarts”) don’t compare, they are definitely delicious & I recommend them! Wishing you the creamiest of carbs!!
u/draftyelectrolyte Thanks for the neat-o Maine postcard with the lovely illustrations which REALLY makes me wanna come check out Maine asap! I also love the Jamie Wyeth quote you included. I’ve always been intrigued by Maine from everything I’ve heard & especially when authors write about it. So I appreciate the inspiration & your kindness! Wishing you beautiful balmy breezes this spring!
u/56Thorns x 2 Thank you for the “awwwww” inducing illustrated kitty cards!!! Sooooooo mindblowingly cuuuuute! The kitty wedding card is just…so cute it hurts!!! I love the whimsical style & fun colors for the card. The surprise bonus postcard of the kitty lounging in the potted plant is hilarious & super sweet! I love your taste in art. =) Thanks also for the big beautiful kitty sticker & the kitty-themed party napkin - so festive!!! Wishing you lots of joy & peace this spring, kind soul!
u/fancykiddens x 2 My fancy fine fabulous friend!!!! Thank you for the ***literally sweet*** Candy Heaven postcard - love the stickers you used to decorate!!! And I love your sweet handwriting! How sweet you are is apparent from this card! Thank you for the cuuuute doggie card with all the cute stickers!!! I LOVE your handwriting!!! Most of all, I love your constant positivity - I actually feel those rays of sunshine you’re bouncing to me all the way from your sunny state!!! Sending lots of love (and a promise to catch up asap).
u/on1omaniac Thank you for the adorable “Star meets little prince” postcard with your gorgeous handwriting! Your penmanship is soooo nice & even - how do you do it?!??!? It’s art!!! I also love the “Bear Mail” stamp you used. Adorable. And what a huge heart you have, sacrificing your alien love for all your loved ones! Wishing you a spring full of limitless (human haha) love!!
u/RitaAlbertson Thank you for the adorable handmade zebra-themed birthday card & your kind wishes!! Soooo cute! I appreciate you thinking of me on my big day. :) Wishing you a fabulous spring!
u/championvilla Thank you so much for the cool Carlsbad Caverns National Park postcard in honor of my birthday! Love the Alice in Wonderland rabbit sticker you used for the birthday proclamation - so clever & cute! I really appreciate you thinking of me on my birthday - thanks again!!! =) Wishing you a super spring!
u/RideThatBridge Thank you for the adorable vintage Easter postcard! And OMG this joke is AWESOME!!! “What do you call a Zen egg? An OMMMMMMM LET.” Hahahaha!!! Thank you for the sweet card & the awesome laugh!!! I also love the bunny-themed washi in fun colors & the bunny sticker you used. Hope you’re having a syrupy sweet spring, sweet friend (so many more thank-yous due, sweetcakes - posted about my drama in meta).
u/melhen16 Thank you for the pretty pastel Earth Day postcard with your kind wishes & the fun stickers!
2023.06.08 01:25 numnums8 Why not fury/prot for dungeons?
So I am lvl 52 now and it seems that people recommend switching from an arms build to a fury DPS or protection tank build at this point. I will probably be DPS in raids but I have been tanking almost all my dungeons up till this point so I might go prot to continue to tank and find groups faster. If I do go prot why not fury/prot though?
I know everyone says fury/prot is not worth it until later but I don't understand why. Looking at the talent trees you don't really get anything going deep prot. All the good talents are in the top half that you get anyway going fury/prot. You get extra damage from talents like enrage and flurry without losing the mitigation talents from the prot tree. Please let me know if I am missing something but it seems the only significant advantage of going deep prot is having points in arms for tactical mastery.
submitted by numnums8 to classicwow [link] [comments]
I know everyone says fury/prot is not worth it until later but I don't understand why. Looking at the talent trees you don't really get anything going deep prot. All the good talents are in the top half that you get anyway going fury/prot. You get extra damage from talents like enrage and flurry without losing the mitigation talents from the prot tree. Please let me know if I am missing something but it seems the only significant advantage of going deep prot is having points in arms for tactical mastery.
2023.06.08 01:21 mrdaniellyon "Bargain Bin" Player Watch - June 2023 Edition
So I know it's June and actual football is still months away but the NFL Draft + many dynasty drafts over, training camp under way and the offseason in full swing. I'm curious to know your opinion on what undervalued, overlooked or even overhated players that you might think, at the very least, may make good dynasty stashes, or even better can become valuable pieces or even studs.
Basically any player that makes you say "eh, maybe I might take a chance on him, kinda feeling curious" but might end up being one of those guys that makes you go like "Damn, I should be in an NFL Front office for this".
Im a rebuilder, so I'm thinking about players who are:
If this post gets enough interaction, I might make this a series that's periodic or something!
submitted by mrdaniellyon to DynastyFF [link] [comments]
Basically any player that makes you say "eh, maybe I might take a chance on him, kinda feeling curious" but might end up being one of those guys that makes you go like "Damn, I should be in an NFL Front office for this".
Im a rebuilder, so I'm thinking about players who are:
- Rookies (usually later round, undrafted, a lil' lower in dynasty draft boards) who might be diamonds in the rough; either super talented and/or got drafted in the best situations
- Waivers/free agents of your league or you can trade for a lower pick or something
- Value has tanked (injury, down year, etc.) recently that might break through or make a comeback soon
- Just any player in general that's got your attention, even if it's just a little, that's going for pennies on the dollar now, but won't be eventually
If this post gets enough interaction, I might make this a series that's periodic or something!
2023.06.08 01:14 Negative_Sock4219 History of the Swarmlords battles pre 10th!
With 10th edition right around the corner and with its focus on the Nids. I thought it be fun to showcase the Swarmlords various battles and try and get a good idea where he should stand as threat. Since he can comeback stronger every time, I hope we get to see him fight someone like Trajann Valoris. If the nid are going to invade Terra that is.
BATTLES:
submitted by Negative_Sock4219 to 40kLore [link] [comments]
BATTLES:
- Vs Calgar: Couldn't find a quote, however it comes from "Codex Tyranid (5th & 6th edition)". At "the Battle of Cold Steel Ridge" on Macragge the Swarmlord directed Hive Fleet Behemoth to defeat every one of Marneus Calgar's tactics. Calgar himself was almost killed by the Swarmlord, but managed to escape alive with the help of his Honour Guard while Swarmy killed the Commander of the Guard Aloyseus. The Swarmlord led the attack on the polar fortresses of Macragge defended by Captain Invictus of the Ultramarines' elite 1st Company. In the end, the entire 1st Company was killed and official Imperial reports listed the Swarmlord as slain at that time. Calgar has a rematch with Swarmy in Ichar IV. With Calgar evening the score by killing the Hive Tyrant.
- Vs Ortan Cassius: Couldn't find a quote, however it comes from "Space Marine Legends: Cassius". He killed the Swarmlord & his Tyrant guard with the assistance of a squad of like 10 marines. However, the only reason he managed to pull it off is because, the Swarmlord wanted to end the fight quickly. So, he resorted to a psychic attack. Unfortunately for Swarmy Cassius had been training with Tigurius on his psychic resistance. So, while the Swarmlord had his back on him. Cassius manage to recover quickly, and surprise attack Swarmy. He hit Swarmy's head with a powered crozius. The Swarmlord's head was then doused with fire from Cassius' combi-bolter's flamer and was forced onto its knees. There Cassius' squadmates pumped its vital organs full of Hellfire rounds while the Chaplain repeatedly beat its head with his powered Crozius. This continued for a few minutes until Swarmy died.
- Vs Prince Yriel: to be honest not much of a fight. Swarmy kinda just gets one-shot by Yriel using a Crone-Sword. - (Valedor):
”He landed lightly upon the gory corpse of a fallen giant. Before him the swarmlord loomed, taller than a wraithknight and greatly more massive. Its eyes glittered at him with malign intelligence.
‘Great Dragon!’ Yriel called, holding aloft the Spear of Twilight. ‘I come to slay you, as my forefather Ulthanash slew the wyrm Draoch-var with this very blade!’
Three huge creatures lumbered at Yriel, directed by the psychic command of the leader-beast, but he leapt aside from their swipes, the spear granting him unparalleled reflexes. One and then another fell, pierced by the pin point lance beams of the prince’s followers as he bounded closer to his prey. Roaring, the swarmlord attacked, driving down a claw twelve paces long at Yriel. He back-flipped, the wind of its passing stirring his hair. The tip of the claw slammed down into a carcass, slowing the hive tyrant for the merest heartbeat as it tugged it free, but it was enough. The prince landed on his feet. Smoothly he drew back his arm and cast the spear of Ulthanash at the creature. The spear screamed a polyphonic wrath-song as it hurtled through the air, passing in an eyeblink to pierce the jaw of the swarmlord, drive up through the soft mouth into the swollen brain case, and emerge, gleaming, from the top of the armoured skull.
The swarmlord toppled, lifeless. Yriel yelled in exultation, feeling more alive than he had in many cycles. He had become jaded by his life as a corsair. But this! This was the theatre of life full in the round!
- Vs 3 Custodes: Fought three Custodians, killing two and was fighting on par with their Shield Captain. - (Duty Unto Death):
”A single pod cut through the toxic fumes and the burning sky, hammering into the centre of the plain and the milling confusion of the alien horde. There was an instant realignment, like constellations suddenly clarified in the heavens. The army turned as one, unified by singular purpose once more. The thing which tore itself free from the spore-pod was immense, the pinnacle of genetic mastery and a paragon of inhuman might. The greatest bio-scholars of Terra could not decide whether it was a consciousness in its own right, or an immune response of the hive mind – brought into being when the tide was set against it.
The swarmlord raised its head and bellowed as it rushed forward to meet them.
iIt closed the distance in what seemed like moments. A blur, the storm given form. Blades scissored down against the Custodians. They blocked, even their movements too slow. Bio-electric fields warred with the power fields of their weapons in a whine of feedback and a shower of sparks. It forced Varamach to his knees, and the great cleaver blade descended, burying itself in the armour of his neck. There was a spasm and a gout of blood, and he had only a moment to drive his spear up and into its flesh before he fell. Another loss, too massive to countenance. Natreus ducked under its guard and slashed across its chest, but the swarmlord brought all four of its blades to bear. It pinned Natreus, blades barely containing him as he struggled, blood coating them in furious smears. The Custodian’s spear fell from his grasp, and the swarmlord cast him to the dust.*
Only Tamerlain remained. He broke into a run, swinging his axe as he advanced. The heavy castellan blade impacted against one of the boneswords, chipping it. There was no surprise in its dead eyes, only a snarl of alien hate.
‘This is His domain,’ Tamerlain said, not caring whether or not it could hear or understand. ‘I am His servant, and you shall not end me with my duty yet undone.’ He moved beneath its dance of blades, feeling them scrape against his armour – turned aside by angle, speed and the armour’s inherent strength. It snarled, dripping venom as it stabbed down at him. He dropped to his knees, his hand finding Natreus’ spear. ‘Forgive me,’ he whispered, and drove the unpowered blade up with such force that it cracked the monster’s armoured sternum. It slammed one of its blade limbs into his side, and he brought his axe up again. An arm flew free in a gush of sour fluid, and it batted him aside with the flat of another blade.
They were evenly matched. Opposites. Mirrors. One the pinnacle of human genetic mastery, the other a crescendo of accelerated hyper-evolution. One was golden, the other base.
They fought down the burning slopes, even as the tyranid swarm wove around them in a tightening noose. By-blows obliterated swathes of brood organisms. The swarmlord did not care as it scythed through its own, as it drove Tamerlain back. He fought with every century of his experience behind him. He could feel the names carved into his armour, pressed against his flesh. Each carried a burden.
He moved as fast as he was able, raising his axe to block and parry or to cut and slash. Their melee devolved into a grinding brawl, drawn out and bitter. He tensed as he fought, feeling the dull ache of fatigue. He struck for its thorax, cleaving it open even as it brought two of its blades round.
It pincered him in place. He felt something break in his armour’s systems, his gauntlet clenching in palsy. He closed his eyes and focused. It was more gruelling and more intense than any Blood Game he had run in the service of the Throne, more pressing than any battle of his long years. He felt his fingers close, finally, around the hilt of his misericordia dagger, and pulled it free. He pushed it up and drove it into the thing’s snarling visage. Dissonator spirits engaged with a flare and the blade blazed golden for a glorious instant as it sank through flesh and chitin. The beasts screamed, every last one of them howling in animal agony.
Tamerlain kicked out his leg and drove the dying monster back. Behind him, the world roared again – in sympathetic victory.
- Vs Dante: - (Devastation of Baal):
" Fifty yards away was the largest hive tyrant Dante had ever seen. Upon backward-hinged legs it stood taller than a Dreadnought. Red spore clouds pumped from the chimneys on its high back. Bonded to its fists were four matched boneswords, with heavy ends as square and brutal as cleavers. He had heard of this thing, the galaxy’s bane, the hive mind personified.
Commander Dante faced the Swarm Lord.
His perception coalesced around the monster. Reality reasserted itself, his visions driven off by the sheer physicality of the hive mind. The past gave way to the present. The sounds of battle returned, albeit muted. The horde was broken into pieces. The howling of his blood-mad warriors was scattered, so isolated there could only have been a few of them left.
In the monster’s eyes glimmered an ancient and powerful intellect. As old as he was, Dante felt like a newborn babe compared to the intelligence staring at him through that unblinking gaze. He sensed that there were two beings looking at him. The monster, and the being that controlled it. They were separate, yet one. A sense of crushing psychic might emanated from it, so great its grasp encompassed galaxies. There was sophistication there, and terrifying intelligence, but all were outweighed by its bottomless, eternal hunger.
For the moment that the man and the monster stared into one another’s souls, Dante pitied it. The hunger of the hive mind made the Red Thirst trivial by comparison.
A rumble sounded in the monster’s throat. Muscle fibres exposed by gaps in its chitinous armour contracted; that was all the warning Dante received. There was no threat display, no roar to intimidate, it simply hurled itself into the attack. The hive mind was nothing if not efficient.
Despite its size, the Swarm Lord moved with staggering speed. Its alien anatomy made its attacks difficult to predict, and Dante found himself fending off a blur of jagged bone. Crystal veins glittered in the blades, generating a shimmering energy field like none Dante was familiar with.
The Swarm Lord’s weapons met the Axe Mortalis with a thunderous boom. Dante reeled back from the blow, letting out a brief blast from his jump pack to steady himself, dodging narrowly to the right to avoid a return strike from the Swarm Lord’s two left-hand swords. He ignited his jump pack fully, making a short leap backwards as the swords from the right smashed into the desert where he had been standing. The energy field encasing the blade exploded the sand.
As the beast slammed down its weapons he snapped off a quick shot with the perdition pistol. His aim was honed by centuries of practice. The meltabeam cut a roiling line through the air, connecting with the Swarm Lord’s lower left elbow joint. An explosion of steam carried the smell of broiled meat out towards Dante, and the thing’s arm went limp.
It made no cry of pain. As it moved forward, its useless arm snagged on the ground. With an total lack of human emotion, it severed the crippled limb with a sword blow and moved in to re-engage. Dante leapt again, jets on full burn. He swooped low, darting in to strike and withdraw. His fuel indicators plummeted, but Dante remained aloft, soaring away from bonesword strikes with expertly timed exhaust bursts. His blows left a dozen smoking scars in the Swarm Lord’s carapace. It responded with a buffeting storm of psychically generated terror that had no effect on the Space Marine lord, so deep in the thirst was he. The thirst grew in Dante until he stood on the brink of the Black Rage, a pit he could never climb from. He resisted the urge to finally throw himself in. The strength this last surrender would grant him would be formidable, but his mind would be gone for good, and so he would perish. Not until this thing was slain would he abandon his last shreds of self-control. He had to know that it was dead.
He focused on his hate, on his desire to kill, on his need to rip this interloper’s head from its shoulders and cast it to the sand.
The Swarm Lord’s armour was thickest on its shoulders, head and back. They duelled for long minutes, Dante landing so many blows that the edge of his fabled axe dulled, and its power unit vented black smoke. All his skill could draw but a little blood. The Swarm Lord snapped and swung at him with undiminished might.
Dante needed a decisive blow soon. The Swarm Lord’s endurance would outlast his own, and one lucky strike from the beast’s weapons could end the fight long before exhaustion set in. So Dante dived in again, axe held low in the manner of a cavalryman stooping in the saddle to strike with his sabre. Jinking through swinging boneswords and into the spore cloud issuing from the Swarm Lord’s chimneys, he raked the blade of his weapon across the leader beast’s face, catching it across one eye. He was momentarily blinded by the swirl of red microorganisms belching from its back, and forced to touch down.
The two combatants wheeled to face each other. The chitin around the Swarm Lord’s right eye was cut down to a gleam of bone. Ichor and humours from its ravaged eye wet its cheek.
Dante smiled coldly. ‘I shall take your other eye, and then I shall kill you.’ In return the leader beast shrieked, a psychic assault that channelled the polyphonous voice of the hive mind into a concentrated mental blow. Dante reeled under the combined sonic-psionic blast. Something gave inside him. He tasted blood at the back of his throat. His mind suffered more than his body, and he staggered back, dazed, his axe dragging through the sand.
The Swarm Lord seized the opportunity and ran at the commander again. Dante blasted backwards, but even as it charged the Swarm Lord assailed Dante with fresh psychic attacks, sending out a lance of psionic energy that cut through his armour into his leg and knocked Dante wheeling from the air. He slammed into the ground with bone-jarring force. His face slammed into his helm, breaking his nose. The terror field halo around Sanguinius’ golden mask buckled and gave out in a skittering crawl of psychic energy. His iron halo’s energy field failed with a bang.
The thing screamed again. Dante’s being was deadened from the soul outward. His vision swam. The energy his thirst gave him was stolen away. The Swarm Lord thundered at him, head down, three swords back, ready to strike. Dante regained enough of his wits just in time, activating his jump pack while he was still on his back. The jets sent him scraping across the ancient rockcrete and sand of the landing fields at high speed, drawing a shower of sparks from his armour. Alarms wailed from every system of his battleplate.
A second, brain-rattling impact shook him as he connected with the wreck of a Land Raider. The systems diagnostics for his jump pack wailed at high alert, red danger runes blinking all over his helmplate. With a thought, he jettisoned his jump pack, rolling free of the stuttering jump unit as the Swarm Lord barrelled into the tank wreck with such force it lifted from the ground. The Swarm Lord turned on him quickly, grinding Dante’s jump pack into a pool of fire and sundered metal under its broad hooves. The Land Raider slammed back down.
More alarms rang in Dante’s helm. On standard battleplate, a jump pack took the place of a Space Marine’s reactor pack, replicating most of its functions as well as providing limited flight capability. Without it, Dante was left in a suit of armour with only residual power.
He had seconds left of combat effectiveness at the most. Emergency battery icons clamoured for his attention, bars sliding quickly down to red emptiness.
The Swarm Lord screamed. Psychically induced horror buffeted Dante’s mind, tormenting him with dread. Dante roared back, unafraid.
‘I am of the Lord of the Blood,’ he said, as he broke into a run, the alarms of his dying armour wailing in his ears. ‘What I do, I do for he who made me. No personal ambition is mine. No glory do I seek. No salvation for my soul or comfort for my body. No fear do I feel.’ The Swarm Lord swung at Dante hard. Dante retaliated with a counter blow, shattering the bone sabre. Thick alien fluids pumped from the broken blade. The eye set into its hilt rolled madly, and it began to shrill. ‘By his Blood was I saved from the selfishness of flesh.’
The Swarm Lord was unmoved by the death of its symbiotic blade. The stroke continued downward, the remains of the sword catching Dante below his breastplate and penetrating his plastron. A combination of Dante’s impetus and the Swarm Lord’s immense strength punched the bone fragment deep into his body, penetrating his secondary heart, scraping on his spine, and exiting the other side of his torso.
The creature snarled in what would have been triumph in any other species. Dante’s formidable progress was arrested. Hissing deeply, the Swarm Lord lifted Commander Dante off the ground, armour and all. Warm blood ran down inside Dante’s bodyglove. Toxins leaked from the Swarm Lord’s weapon, sending spiders of agony crawling along his nerves.
‘By his Blood was I elevated.’ It was over. He began the Mors Votum. The Swarm Lord lifted him high, screaming in victory, and swung its arm down to flick Dante from the blade’s shard so it might finish him on the sand.
Reactive foams bubbled from Dante’s armour, bonding him firmly to the remnants of the Swarm Lord’s blade.
‘By his Blood do I serve.’
The beast hesitated, only for a fraction of a second, but it was enough. As it was raising its remaining two blades to cut Dante in two, the commander raised the perdition pistol. His armour died on him, its systems starved of power, growing heavier with every second as his life ran from his body. His aim did not waver.
‘My life I give to the Emperor, to Sanguinius, and to mankind,’ he intoned. The Swarm Lord’s face was reflected in the dulled metal of Dante’s mask.
Sanguinius’ face shouted silently at the hive mind.
Dante disengaged the weapon’s failsafes with a flick of his thumb.
‘My service is done. I give thanks. My life is finished. I give thanks. Blood returns to blood. Another will take up my burden in my stead. I give thanks.’
He fired the perdition pistol at point-blank range into the Swarm Lord’s face. Its flesh liquefied and boiled off as superheated steam. Its first bonesword bounced from Dante’s armour, ripping long scratches into its decoration. Bloodstones fell from their mounts. Still Dante held his aim true. The pistol’s power pack grew so hot with thermal feedback it blistered his skin through his ceramite. Still he did not relent. The fusion beam bored through the creature’s organic armour. Thermic biogels bled from cavities in the chitin, but they could not stay the perdition pistol’s beam. The weapon glowed with white heat. The Swarm Lord reared backwards. Its cries became gurgles as its tongue cooked in its head. Desperate to be free of Dante, it severed its own wrist with a clumsy strike. Dante blacked out for a moment from the pain of the bone shard jarring his organs as he hit the floor. When he came to he was lying on the ground. The Swarm Lord slumped to its knees alongside him. Its movements were feeble. Keening quietly, it fell forward, chest heaving. Air whistled through its breathing spiracles, then ceased. Dante rolled his head to one side. One of the boneswords lay close to his face. The eye set into its hilt stared hatred at him before dimming. The pupil dilated. The sword, too, was dead.
Dante took a painful breath. Fluid bubbled in his lungs. His body ached all over from the tyranid’s poison.
He was dying."
- Vs the Overfiend: Couldn't find a quote, however it comes from "War Zone Octarius, Book 2: Critical Mass". The Swarmlord face the second largest ork in the galaxy twice. The first time he charged at the Overfiend, battleling for hours nonstop. However, the Overfiend after getting a shot off at the Swarmlord's midriff, decapitated swarmy. Swarmy angrily was rebirth in a bioship ready for round 2. In said round the Swarmlord bid his time. Only jumping into the fight after the Overfiend had been wounded by a carnifex. He then uses his agility to evade the Overfiend's attacks, in an attempt to tire him. The Overfiend however never relented nor slowed down yet in the midst of a swing the Swamrlord found an opening. Which he use to cut the cable of the Overfiends power-claw. With his power-claw now slowing him down the Swarmlord made quick work out of him. Eating his brains in the process.
2023.06.08 00:58 queenofthescreen [Thank You] I’ve bean thinking of y'all a latte. Words can't espresso how much y'all bean to me. A sad cup of coffee? Depresso. How did Henry VIII like his coffee? Decap. Why was the barista fired?Kept showing up in a tea-shirt. How did the hipster burn his tongue? Drank the coffee b4 it was cool.
https://imgur.com/a/aNN3xLG (please click to see all the pics including the world's cutest poop)
u/Moose-Maleficent x 2 Thank you so much for the super creative handmade Pi Day card! I adore your heart & am honestly not surprised you wouldn’t exact revenge against Bridezilla hahaha! Yessss I thought of “The Help” too lol!!! I’m also bananas for the insanely awesome Hot Cross Buns card - it’s sooooo my smile & makes me so happy when I look at it!!!! It’s heartbreakingly cute. I’m so happy to have met you & to remember you forevermore as my first recipient (or hopefully soon) of international mail - that’s the most excitement I’ve had in years hahaha!!!!
u/thecaledonianrose x 2 OMG this cuuuute kitty birthday card is so sweet!!! I was especially touched by your beautiful words wishing me so many amazing things! What a kind soul you are - THANK YOU so much!!! I also love the fun stickers, the neat-o washi stamp style stickers, the mini thank-you, & the delicious passion flower tea!!! Thank you so much for the super precious Easter card of the bunny & the birds!! This bunny is just a sweetheart with that dreamy expression & smile! I just love the colors & the positive vibes jumping out at me from the card & your sweet thoughts! Yesssss, I’m really happy we sorta have a spring in my state - sadly it doesn’t last long. But I’m so grateful it’s not a billion degrees yet! Thank you also for the ****cuuuuute**** bunny & Easter stickers, the Perfect Peach tea (I’m so jazzed to try it - how perfect is that flavor for Spring?!?!?) & the pretty Flowers Bingo card with the too cute floral bingo mini placemarkers!!! Wishing you the sweetest Spring full of fanciful flowers!
u/fightshrubb Thank you so much for the adorable handmade aliens-themed Pi Day card - soooo cute!!! I love your energy!! Also love that you used different fun & bright colors of ink to write! I so hear you with the endless array of craft supplies lol!! To answer your question…I love watercolor!!! I have zero skills & was trying to learn when I happily stumbled upon RAoC so watercolor took a backseat to carding. ;) Hope you had an awesome Pi Day full of pizza discounts haha! ;)
u/emptyparkinglot Thanks for the Gauguin postcard with your hilarious observation, “Paul Gauguin was honestly a creep in his personal life but he sure did know how to use color.” Hahaha, right?!? I loved your thoughts on art & appreciate them especially because I have a deep desire to learn more about art & how to articulate artistic concepts. You did that so beautifully with your analysis of Gauguin’s work! Wishing you lots of bliss as you create your own works of art! =)
u/o0oiwio0o Thank you for the awesome sassy slanderous card of the Bernadine Bridge over the Vilnia!!! Your handwriting - oh my GORGEOUS!!! It’s so classy! And I have NEVER seen more fun & vibrant punctuation marks!!! I love your style! And the slander about the National Stadium is truly hilarious. I love how you turned the slander into a motivational gem hahaha!!!! I just loved your creative prompt & felt so fortunate to be a recipient of such fresh, fancy slander LOL! I also love the adorable elephant sticker you included. Thank you. =) Wishing you infinite saucy slanderous thoughts because they are so fun & phenomenal!!! =)
u/travel4me22 x 2 Thank you for WHAAAAT?!?!? This incredible, gorgeous postcard you upcycled from a Van Gogh paper bag!!!! So creative - I absolutely loooove it!!!! I appreciate your resourcefulness & creativity so much! Thank you for the *beautiful* illustrated card of the strong, powerful women!! The colors are so fun. This card & your kind affirmations are just brimming with so many positive vibes!! I’m also excited you share my thoughts on Helen Keller. Thank you for spreading awesome cheer on International Women’s Day & beyond!
u/onlycompletely Thanks for the adorable “Espresso Yourself” postcard!!
u/drivingogre Thank you so much for the cute bear doodle postcard with all the fun facts about Disney actors & cats! You have such sweet vibes!!
u/TigerLady13 x 4 Thanks for the adorable bunny & flower Easter card! LOVE the stamp embellishments you included & the cute way you decorated the inside of the card with the cut out words. Thanks also for the hug in the mail “nothing new” card with the awesome passion clouds worksheet & delicious recipe - I’ll definitely try it. :) Thank you for the hilarious 100% organic gangster card! Loved hearing your BFF was about to visit. Hope y’all had a fabulous time together and that y’all will meet up again soon! You asked about my BFF. Thank you - we met at the University of Texas when she was a transfer student & I was a freshman. She boldly came right up to me as I was having lunch alone to ask if she could join me. It was so cool of her to be so brave! She lives hundreds of miles away & the pandemic has made it a pain to get together but we keep in touch. Wishing you a beautiful spring, beautiful friend!
u/YuletideWitch Thank you for the adorable vintage Disney World postcard! I’m so sad you shot yourself in the head…I shouldn’t have given that to you as an option for the Macarena prompt. But I shall remember your bravery in the face of dance adversity forevermore! Haha, thank you for indulging me with the silly prompt :)
u/royalewithtees Thanks for the awesome “Breaking Bad” postcard - I didn’t know that cool fact about the 62nd element…so awesome!!! Happy to have met someone who has awesome taste in shows like me hahahaha!!! And I LOVE the cool BB decorative stamp!!! Thank you!!
u/mickey_is_bored Thank you so much to you & your sweet friends for cheering on complete strangers!!! I wish that back in college, I had the type of friend you & your pals are for carding crafternoons! So precious. Thinking of you & your friend & sending lots of healing vibes. Thanks for spreading cheer :)
u/hato_mailing Thank you for the sweet wax seals on the lovely barnacle goose postcard - love the Denmark bird stamp embellishment!
u/elliearbus Thank you so much for this AWESOME handmade watercolor card - you are so insanely talented!!! I love it!!!!! I’m a sucker for not only watercolor art, but illustrations of craft supplies so this card is absolutely a terrific treasure for me. It’s just adorable & brimming with energy! Thanks again. Wishing you endless joy as you create your wondrous watercolor work!!
u/gillbhai x 2 I’m so happy & relieved I finally found you, my mystery sender! Thank you so much for both of the gorgeous floral cards in my favorite bright colors! The pinks, oranges, & blues are just so cheery & happy! I also love the book rec & the Sharif poetry you wonderfully shared with me. I’ll have to read & re-read it to truly understand all the layers as you & Sharif are so amazingly deep! I would highly recommend the historical fiction book “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles. It’s the best book I’ve read in many years. Wishing you joyous reads & a peaceful rest of 2023. Thank you so much for brightening my day with your lovely thoughts & beautiful cards!!
u/RoxanneBarton Thanks for the beautifully-illustrated pen & pencils “Snail Mail Club” postcard - I’m obsessed with illustrated cards & love it so much!!! I have to catch up with SG films too. LOVE your pretty handwriting! =) Wishing you fragrant bouquets of lilacs this spring, sweet friend.
u/purpleteasoul x 2 Thanks for the sweet purple floral thank you card - it was my pleasure to send you birthday mail! Thanks also “Welcome book lover…” postcard! Hahaha yes you’re right, I read your postcard from my little nook at the library! Wishing you the best of reads!!
u/littlehoneybeebuzz Thanks for the romantic Paris postcard! I love to read in dreary weather. Wishing you sunny skies this spring! =)
u/brittybear94 x 2 How cute you are is so apparent from your extraordinarily cute mail!! Thanks so much for the fun RAoC b-day wishes!! I’m madly in LOVE with the cuuuutest little Peanuts “Nuts About You” card, the adorable Cookie Monster sticker, & the incredibly festive colorful RAoC personalized rainbow mail sticker…SO SO cuuute!! Even the envelope was decorated in one thing - CUTE. Thanks for gracing my mailbox with such pretty things!!! =) Wishing you the crunchiest & chewiest of chocolate chip cookies, my cute friend!!!
u/Jane_Q Thanks for the lovely illustrated postcard of the Field Tulips in Holland! Even lovelier - how much you wrote on the back of the postcard! OMG my southern sensibilities woulda been smacked too had I gone through the nonsense you described! WTH?!? As Jerry Maguire would say, “These fish have manners.” Seriously whack!! But I was so happy you shared, thank you! Wishing you zero car issues so you never have to deal with mannerless buffoons ever again hahaha!
u/OkayFlan Thanks for the sweet “I am Grateful” postcard - I sure am grateful to have met you here & hope you’re having tons of fun with all your cool new card tech supplies!
u/falloutboy01 Thank you for the awesome handmade Easter card - the cutout with the hidden lime green layer is sooooo creative & pretty!!! I’m guessing you used Cricut - wow. The effect is amazing.The colors you used complement each other so well, especially for spring! Thanks also for the adorable stickers. Wishing you a splendid spring, kind friend!!
u/sunfireninety9 - Thank you for the beautiful Asian art illustration postcard! I LOVE all the neat stamps you used on the card. Wow, that is so neat about the 1991 vintage rose stamp! I’m so sorry to learn the glue tasted icky - but you made so many people happy (including me) with your kind happy mail lol! Wishing you tastier stamps next time haha, maybe cupcake flavored ones? ;)
u/feellikebeingajerk x 4 Thanks for the sweet handmade St. Patrick’s Day wishes & the cool President’s Day postcard of Monticello! It’s cool to appreciate our history & I’m glad you’re able to see historical figures through multiple lenses. I’m crazy about the pretty spring-y washi tape you used. Wishing you lots of pretty weather & sunny smiles this spring! THANKS a million for the awesome raspberry pie card & the throwback Holly Hobbie beauty (apologies no pics of these 2 sweeties - they’re elsewhere at the time I’m submitting this) - both of these sweeeeet cards made my day!!!!
u/Soleiletta Thank you for the fabulous card from Wednesday Addams - you totally channeled her so awesomely! You should write for the show!! =) I loved the cute Tarot stickers you used to decorate the card. And that handwriting - it’s just glorious!!! It’s somehow both modern & vintage too?!?? Just gorgeous! Thank you for sharing your fun prompt creativity with me. =)
u/1398_days Thank you for the pretty pastel thank you card!!! It was my absolute pleasure to think of you on your birthday & I’m so touched it cheered you up! Your kind thank you card lifted my spirits & made me feel super happy! It’s so bright & colorful - just my fave color palette! I sure hope you’ve been having cheerful days since your birthday & that you will remind me when it’s your big day next year for more birthday greetings!! =)
u/somedrawer Thanks for the adorable doggie Easter card! Such fun stamps & washi decorations on the card - the baked confectionaries washi is sooo delicious! Love the positive affirmation you wrote: “I am capable of creating positive change in the world.” So uplifting! Here’s one for you: “I am a creator. I create my reality.”
u/its_top_secret x 2 Thank you for the sweet Seigensha postcard! And I love your spirit - you wanting to dance no matter what is so inspiring! I also love your willingness to be brave & embellish when no one is watching hahaha! Thank you for the vintage-y shrine postcard with your beautiful handwriting! Love how you would have searched for legendary figures if you had the chance to time travel. =) Wishing you a happy future & past too if you dare to explore haha!
u/aepeyc Thank you for the sweet Saint Patrick’s Day greetings with the pretty feather! Wishing you lots of luck not just on the 17th of each year, but each day as well. :)
u/missnettiemoore Thank you so much for this GORGEOUS cartoon Saint Patrick’s Day card!!! The sweet smiling critters are so charming!!! I also love the fun fact you wrote: “The odds in finding a 4-leaf clover are about 1 in 10,000.” I had no idea - that’s so mindblowing!!! Thank you for brightening my day with your sweet card. Wishing you a breezy, beautiful spring & that you chance across those rare 4 leaf clovers for lots of luck! =)
u/FollowingTheBeat You had me at the exquisite envelope decorated with your precious handmade cherry blossom tree! So pretty. I’m terrible at drawing trees so I’m especially excited by your talent. But that was just the appetizer. I’m in love with this gorgeous pink-themed floral feast of a card!!! Thank you! This card instantly makes me happy with all the bright colors & the pretty sticker you used to decorate it. This card is soooo beautiful, & so are you for including such sweet spring wishes for so many lovely things, including “beauty”! What an awesome wish. Wishing you a spring full of the same love & beautiful birds that serenade you & make you smile!
u/RayneKitten Thank you so much for the beautiful postcard to color - it’ll be a joy! I also love the quote. I appreciate your kindness! Wishing you lots of masterpieces!
u/PM_me_oak_trees Thank you for the *hilarious* April Fool’s Day card - the teaching English quip is priceless hahaha!!! I also love the awesome motivational quotes & funny jokes you wrote. OMG “I was going to write a time-travel joke, but you did not like it” - rahahahahahahaha! I’m so stealing that one! I really appreciated your creativity in sending “junk mail” - what a neato thing to do! Hope you had a beautiful April Fool’s Day - thanks for making mine special!
u/FancyBeadedPlacemat Thank you so much for the potato postcard! I was laughing when I received it because I only tagged potato pals & didn’t request one since merely *looking* at potatoes makes me gain weight LOL! But I was so glad you sent it to me because I had no idea about the fun history fact!!! That’s so cool that Marie Antoinette would wear potato blossoms in her hair!!! So thank you for sharing that awesome historical gem with me!!!
u/wabisabi_sf Thank you so much for this perfect postcard TREAT of Julia Child along with the fun facts about her life! It’s just a postcard dream as far as postcards go. I’m nuts for fun illustrations so this is a real treasure. I also love the fun vintage stamps you used. Thanks so much for thinking of me with your wonderful offer & for making me giddy by picking me to receive this scrumptious postcard!! =)
u/orangewolpertinger x 2 Thank you for the absolutely precious homemade cards!!!! The cuuuute pink kawaii candy themed card just made me melt!!! I love the combo of black & pink colors along with the pink & red themed scrapbook paper! The fox Saint Patrick’s Day card is soooo adorable too! Love the fun stickers you used to decorate the card! I also love & appreciate the kind stamps you included. You’re also so cute to take that Squishmallow personality quiz hahaha! So you’re Hans the Hedgehog? Although I agree that Hans is cute, he doesn’t hold up a cute candle compared to you & your endless card love!!! Thank you so much for these sweet treats!!! Wishing you lots of love & joy!
u/Bowies-solid-speech x 2 I’m so happy I found you, my fabulous obituary mystery sender!!!! I even tried looking for you with a search for “obituary” on Reddit but didn’t find any relevant hits…Reddit is so goofy. I loved your creative, thoughtful obituary so much! You have such a fun brain - thank you for brightening my day with the fake obit hahaha! Your creativity is so very charming!!! I also admired how eager you were to write in depth! I also LOVE the adorable postcard of the critter looking at himself in the mirror. Thank you! The pastel colors & illustration are awesome! I was drawn to it because of one of my favorite Kabir quotes: “But if a mirror ever makes you sad, you should know that it does not know you.” Wishing you lots of joy as you check your beautiful self out in the mirror!!
u/Slavkan12 THANK you so much for this gorgeous handmade “Dream Space” postcard that’s so bright & bouncy with the gorgeous array of blooming plants!!! It’s so pretty & makes me ache to have my own “Dream Space”!!! I love how you upcycled the calendar to create it. So cool & creative. But the front of the card isn’t where the magic ends - WOW!! I was **blown away** by your amazing illustration inside the card with the stunning self-portrait & the pretty pink & green plant!!! Your art skills are sublime! I love all the colors you used (such pretty pink hair & I love the color of your shirt). I wish so much I could draw like you but am grateful that even though I can’t, I’m a lucky recipient of this super cool gift!!!! I also love all the festive stickers you included & how you decorated the envelope with the unique bird/owl stickers. =) Thank you so much for this magnificent, magical mail! Wishing you lots of success in your art & beyond, kind friend!
u/jules_abroad How did you do it? Never before your gorgeous card would I have ever thought I would have called a card with toilet paper & poop on it “gorgeous”. But that’s what you did with your INSANE TALENT & ADORABLE poop & tp handmade wacky wonderful card!!! I’m honestly in awe even though poop & tp usually make me wanna throw up! I LOVE IT SO SO MUCH hahaha! Thank you for brightening my day with poop of all things! I’m including a highlighted picture of it with the link above. ;) I wish I could draw & watercolor like you do…this is so going in a frame in my future dream home bathroom!! =) Wishing you the softest, squishiest, most cloud-like tp ever, sweet friend!
submitted by queenofthescreen to RandomActsofCards [link] [comments]
u/Moose-Maleficent x 2 Thank you so much for the super creative handmade Pi Day card! I adore your heart & am honestly not surprised you wouldn’t exact revenge against Bridezilla hahaha! Yessss I thought of “The Help” too lol!!! I’m also bananas for the insanely awesome Hot Cross Buns card - it’s sooooo my smile & makes me so happy when I look at it!!!! It’s heartbreakingly cute. I’m so happy to have met you & to remember you forevermore as my first recipient (or hopefully soon) of international mail - that’s the most excitement I’ve had in years hahaha!!!!
u/thecaledonianrose x 2 OMG this cuuuute kitty birthday card is so sweet!!! I was especially touched by your beautiful words wishing me so many amazing things! What a kind soul you are - THANK YOU so much!!! I also love the fun stickers, the neat-o washi stamp style stickers, the mini thank-you, & the delicious passion flower tea!!! Thank you so much for the super precious Easter card of the bunny & the birds!! This bunny is just a sweetheart with that dreamy expression & smile! I just love the colors & the positive vibes jumping out at me from the card & your sweet thoughts! Yesssss, I’m really happy we sorta have a spring in my state - sadly it doesn’t last long. But I’m so grateful it’s not a billion degrees yet! Thank you also for the ****cuuuuute**** bunny & Easter stickers, the Perfect Peach tea (I’m so jazzed to try it - how perfect is that flavor for Spring?!?!?) & the pretty Flowers Bingo card with the too cute floral bingo mini placemarkers!!! Wishing you the sweetest Spring full of fanciful flowers!
u/fightshrubb Thank you so much for the adorable handmade aliens-themed Pi Day card - soooo cute!!! I love your energy!! Also love that you used different fun & bright colors of ink to write! I so hear you with the endless array of craft supplies lol!! To answer your question…I love watercolor!!! I have zero skills & was trying to learn when I happily stumbled upon RAoC so watercolor took a backseat to carding. ;) Hope you had an awesome Pi Day full of pizza discounts haha! ;)
u/emptyparkinglot Thanks for the Gauguin postcard with your hilarious observation, “Paul Gauguin was honestly a creep in his personal life but he sure did know how to use color.” Hahaha, right?!? I loved your thoughts on art & appreciate them especially because I have a deep desire to learn more about art & how to articulate artistic concepts. You did that so beautifully with your analysis of Gauguin’s work! Wishing you lots of bliss as you create your own works of art! =)
u/o0oiwio0o Thank you for the awesome sassy slanderous card of the Bernadine Bridge over the Vilnia!!! Your handwriting - oh my GORGEOUS!!! It’s so classy! And I have NEVER seen more fun & vibrant punctuation marks!!! I love your style! And the slander about the National Stadium is truly hilarious. I love how you turned the slander into a motivational gem hahaha!!!! I just loved your creative prompt & felt so fortunate to be a recipient of such fresh, fancy slander LOL! I also love the adorable elephant sticker you included. Thank you. =) Wishing you infinite saucy slanderous thoughts because they are so fun & phenomenal!!! =)
u/travel4me22 x 2 Thank you for WHAAAAT?!?!? This incredible, gorgeous postcard you upcycled from a Van Gogh paper bag!!!! So creative - I absolutely loooove it!!!! I appreciate your resourcefulness & creativity so much! Thank you for the *beautiful* illustrated card of the strong, powerful women!! The colors are so fun. This card & your kind affirmations are just brimming with so many positive vibes!! I’m also excited you share my thoughts on Helen Keller. Thank you for spreading awesome cheer on International Women’s Day & beyond!
u/onlycompletely Thanks for the adorable “Espresso Yourself” postcard!!
u/drivingogre Thank you so much for the cute bear doodle postcard with all the fun facts about Disney actors & cats! You have such sweet vibes!!
u/TigerLady13 x 4 Thanks for the adorable bunny & flower Easter card! LOVE the stamp embellishments you included & the cute way you decorated the inside of the card with the cut out words. Thanks also for the hug in the mail “nothing new” card with the awesome passion clouds worksheet & delicious recipe - I’ll definitely try it. :) Thank you for the hilarious 100% organic gangster card! Loved hearing your BFF was about to visit. Hope y’all had a fabulous time together and that y’all will meet up again soon! You asked about my BFF. Thank you - we met at the University of Texas when she was a transfer student & I was a freshman. She boldly came right up to me as I was having lunch alone to ask if she could join me. It was so cool of her to be so brave! She lives hundreds of miles away & the pandemic has made it a pain to get together but we keep in touch. Wishing you a beautiful spring, beautiful friend!
u/YuletideWitch Thank you for the adorable vintage Disney World postcard! I’m so sad you shot yourself in the head…I shouldn’t have given that to you as an option for the Macarena prompt. But I shall remember your bravery in the face of dance adversity forevermore! Haha, thank you for indulging me with the silly prompt :)
u/royalewithtees Thanks for the awesome “Breaking Bad” postcard - I didn’t know that cool fact about the 62nd element…so awesome!!! Happy to have met someone who has awesome taste in shows like me hahahaha!!! And I LOVE the cool BB decorative stamp!!! Thank you!!
u/mickey_is_bored Thank you so much to you & your sweet friends for cheering on complete strangers!!! I wish that back in college, I had the type of friend you & your pals are for carding crafternoons! So precious. Thinking of you & your friend & sending lots of healing vibes. Thanks for spreading cheer :)
u/hato_mailing Thank you for the sweet wax seals on the lovely barnacle goose postcard - love the Denmark bird stamp embellishment!
u/elliearbus Thank you so much for this AWESOME handmade watercolor card - you are so insanely talented!!! I love it!!!!! I’m a sucker for not only watercolor art, but illustrations of craft supplies so this card is absolutely a terrific treasure for me. It’s just adorable & brimming with energy! Thanks again. Wishing you endless joy as you create your wondrous watercolor work!!
u/gillbhai x 2 I’m so happy & relieved I finally found you, my mystery sender! Thank you so much for both of the gorgeous floral cards in my favorite bright colors! The pinks, oranges, & blues are just so cheery & happy! I also love the book rec & the Sharif poetry you wonderfully shared with me. I’ll have to read & re-read it to truly understand all the layers as you & Sharif are so amazingly deep! I would highly recommend the historical fiction book “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles. It’s the best book I’ve read in many years. Wishing you joyous reads & a peaceful rest of 2023. Thank you so much for brightening my day with your lovely thoughts & beautiful cards!!
u/RoxanneBarton Thanks for the beautifully-illustrated pen & pencils “Snail Mail Club” postcard - I’m obsessed with illustrated cards & love it so much!!! I have to catch up with SG films too. LOVE your pretty handwriting! =) Wishing you fragrant bouquets of lilacs this spring, sweet friend.
u/purpleteasoul x 2 Thanks for the sweet purple floral thank you card - it was my pleasure to send you birthday mail! Thanks also “Welcome book lover…” postcard! Hahaha yes you’re right, I read your postcard from my little nook at the library! Wishing you the best of reads!!
u/littlehoneybeebuzz Thanks for the romantic Paris postcard! I love to read in dreary weather. Wishing you sunny skies this spring! =)
u/brittybear94 x 2 How cute you are is so apparent from your extraordinarily cute mail!! Thanks so much for the fun RAoC b-day wishes!! I’m madly in LOVE with the cuuuutest little Peanuts “Nuts About You” card, the adorable Cookie Monster sticker, & the incredibly festive colorful RAoC personalized rainbow mail sticker…SO SO cuuute!! Even the envelope was decorated in one thing - CUTE. Thanks for gracing my mailbox with such pretty things!!! =) Wishing you the crunchiest & chewiest of chocolate chip cookies, my cute friend!!!
u/Jane_Q Thanks for the lovely illustrated postcard of the Field Tulips in Holland! Even lovelier - how much you wrote on the back of the postcard! OMG my southern sensibilities woulda been smacked too had I gone through the nonsense you described! WTH?!? As Jerry Maguire would say, “These fish have manners.” Seriously whack!! But I was so happy you shared, thank you! Wishing you zero car issues so you never have to deal with mannerless buffoons ever again hahaha!
u/OkayFlan Thanks for the sweet “I am Grateful” postcard - I sure am grateful to have met you here & hope you’re having tons of fun with all your cool new card tech supplies!
u/falloutboy01 Thank you for the awesome handmade Easter card - the cutout with the hidden lime green layer is sooooo creative & pretty!!! I’m guessing you used Cricut - wow. The effect is amazing.The colors you used complement each other so well, especially for spring! Thanks also for the adorable stickers. Wishing you a splendid spring, kind friend!!
u/sunfireninety9 - Thank you for the beautiful Asian art illustration postcard! I LOVE all the neat stamps you used on the card. Wow, that is so neat about the 1991 vintage rose stamp! I’m so sorry to learn the glue tasted icky - but you made so many people happy (including me) with your kind happy mail lol! Wishing you tastier stamps next time haha, maybe cupcake flavored ones? ;)
u/feellikebeingajerk x 4 Thanks for the sweet handmade St. Patrick’s Day wishes & the cool President’s Day postcard of Monticello! It’s cool to appreciate our history & I’m glad you’re able to see historical figures through multiple lenses. I’m crazy about the pretty spring-y washi tape you used. Wishing you lots of pretty weather & sunny smiles this spring! THANKS a million for the awesome raspberry pie card & the throwback Holly Hobbie beauty (apologies no pics of these 2 sweeties - they’re elsewhere at the time I’m submitting this) - both of these sweeeeet cards made my day!!!!
u/Soleiletta Thank you for the fabulous card from Wednesday Addams - you totally channeled her so awesomely! You should write for the show!! =) I loved the cute Tarot stickers you used to decorate the card. And that handwriting - it’s just glorious!!! It’s somehow both modern & vintage too?!?? Just gorgeous! Thank you for sharing your fun prompt creativity with me. =)
u/1398_days Thank you for the pretty pastel thank you card!!! It was my absolute pleasure to think of you on your birthday & I’m so touched it cheered you up! Your kind thank you card lifted my spirits & made me feel super happy! It’s so bright & colorful - just my fave color palette! I sure hope you’ve been having cheerful days since your birthday & that you will remind me when it’s your big day next year for more birthday greetings!! =)
u/somedrawer Thanks for the adorable doggie Easter card! Such fun stamps & washi decorations on the card - the baked confectionaries washi is sooo delicious! Love the positive affirmation you wrote: “I am capable of creating positive change in the world.” So uplifting! Here’s one for you: “I am a creator. I create my reality.”
u/its_top_secret x 2 Thank you for the sweet Seigensha postcard! And I love your spirit - you wanting to dance no matter what is so inspiring! I also love your willingness to be brave & embellish when no one is watching hahaha! Thank you for the vintage-y shrine postcard with your beautiful handwriting! Love how you would have searched for legendary figures if you had the chance to time travel. =) Wishing you a happy future & past too if you dare to explore haha!
u/aepeyc Thank you for the sweet Saint Patrick’s Day greetings with the pretty feather! Wishing you lots of luck not just on the 17th of each year, but each day as well. :)
u/missnettiemoore Thank you so much for this GORGEOUS cartoon Saint Patrick’s Day card!!! The sweet smiling critters are so charming!!! I also love the fun fact you wrote: “The odds in finding a 4-leaf clover are about 1 in 10,000.” I had no idea - that’s so mindblowing!!! Thank you for brightening my day with your sweet card. Wishing you a breezy, beautiful spring & that you chance across those rare 4 leaf clovers for lots of luck! =)
u/FollowingTheBeat You had me at the exquisite envelope decorated with your precious handmade cherry blossom tree! So pretty. I’m terrible at drawing trees so I’m especially excited by your talent. But that was just the appetizer. I’m in love with this gorgeous pink-themed floral feast of a card!!! Thank you! This card instantly makes me happy with all the bright colors & the pretty sticker you used to decorate it. This card is soooo beautiful, & so are you for including such sweet spring wishes for so many lovely things, including “beauty”! What an awesome wish. Wishing you a spring full of the same love & beautiful birds that serenade you & make you smile!
u/RayneKitten Thank you so much for the beautiful postcard to color - it’ll be a joy! I also love the quote. I appreciate your kindness! Wishing you lots of masterpieces!
u/PM_me_oak_trees Thank you for the *hilarious* April Fool’s Day card - the teaching English quip is priceless hahaha!!! I also love the awesome motivational quotes & funny jokes you wrote. OMG “I was going to write a time-travel joke, but you did not like it” - rahahahahahahaha! I’m so stealing that one! I really appreciated your creativity in sending “junk mail” - what a neato thing to do! Hope you had a beautiful April Fool’s Day - thanks for making mine special!
u/FancyBeadedPlacemat Thank you so much for the potato postcard! I was laughing when I received it because I only tagged potato pals & didn’t request one since merely *looking* at potatoes makes me gain weight LOL! But I was so glad you sent it to me because I had no idea about the fun history fact!!! That’s so cool that Marie Antoinette would wear potato blossoms in her hair!!! So thank you for sharing that awesome historical gem with me!!!
u/wabisabi_sf Thank you so much for this perfect postcard TREAT of Julia Child along with the fun facts about her life! It’s just a postcard dream as far as postcards go. I’m nuts for fun illustrations so this is a real treasure. I also love the fun vintage stamps you used. Thanks so much for thinking of me with your wonderful offer & for making me giddy by picking me to receive this scrumptious postcard!! =)
u/orangewolpertinger x 2 Thank you for the absolutely precious homemade cards!!!! The cuuuute pink kawaii candy themed card just made me melt!!! I love the combo of black & pink colors along with the pink & red themed scrapbook paper! The fox Saint Patrick’s Day card is soooo adorable too! Love the fun stickers you used to decorate the card! I also love & appreciate the kind stamps you included. You’re also so cute to take that Squishmallow personality quiz hahaha! So you’re Hans the Hedgehog? Although I agree that Hans is cute, he doesn’t hold up a cute candle compared to you & your endless card love!!! Thank you so much for these sweet treats!!! Wishing you lots of love & joy!
u/Bowies-solid-speech x 2 I’m so happy I found you, my fabulous obituary mystery sender!!!! I even tried looking for you with a search for “obituary” on Reddit but didn’t find any relevant hits…Reddit is so goofy. I loved your creative, thoughtful obituary so much! You have such a fun brain - thank you for brightening my day with the fake obit hahaha! Your creativity is so very charming!!! I also admired how eager you were to write in depth! I also LOVE the adorable postcard of the critter looking at himself in the mirror. Thank you! The pastel colors & illustration are awesome! I was drawn to it because of one of my favorite Kabir quotes: “But if a mirror ever makes you sad, you should know that it does not know you.” Wishing you lots of joy as you check your beautiful self out in the mirror!!
u/Slavkan12 THANK you so much for this gorgeous handmade “Dream Space” postcard that’s so bright & bouncy with the gorgeous array of blooming plants!!! It’s so pretty & makes me ache to have my own “Dream Space”!!! I love how you upcycled the calendar to create it. So cool & creative. But the front of the card isn’t where the magic ends - WOW!! I was **blown away** by your amazing illustration inside the card with the stunning self-portrait & the pretty pink & green plant!!! Your art skills are sublime! I love all the colors you used (such pretty pink hair & I love the color of your shirt). I wish so much I could draw like you but am grateful that even though I can’t, I’m a lucky recipient of this super cool gift!!!! I also love all the festive stickers you included & how you decorated the envelope with the unique bird/owl stickers. =) Thank you so much for this magnificent, magical mail! Wishing you lots of success in your art & beyond, kind friend!
u/jules_abroad How did you do it? Never before your gorgeous card would I have ever thought I would have called a card with toilet paper & poop on it “gorgeous”. But that’s what you did with your INSANE TALENT & ADORABLE poop & tp handmade wacky wonderful card!!! I’m honestly in awe even though poop & tp usually make me wanna throw up! I LOVE IT SO SO MUCH hahaha! Thank you for brightening my day with poop of all things! I’m including a highlighted picture of it with the link above. ;) I wish I could draw & watercolor like you do…this is so going in a frame in my future dream home bathroom!! =) Wishing you the softest, squishiest, most cloud-like tp ever, sweet friend!
2023.06.07 23:24 Emotional_Sector_249 Far From Home Part 22
Previous: https://www.reddit.com/HFY/comments/z3s2ol/far_from_home_part_21/
First: https://www.reddit.com/HFY/comments/opag9w/far_from_home/
“Explain,”
“The constant barrage, and constant destruction, of meteors has begun to affect our farms and fisheries greatly. It is summer on our world and already the chill of fall has set in. The world is darker, and the days bear more clouds,”
I am forever grateful for this brave firm helmet, it does well to hide my disgust. My misbegotten and shameful pride. But I cannot throw away my soldier's lives pointlessly.
“How does your world harvest from the seas, good merchant?” I asked.
“Submersibles and diving suits, why do you ask,” the Erisian said.
“If you would stop the bombardment of that fortress then you will allow my forces to use your talents and your vehicles. Your artisans and forges will work on my command. For that I will spare your world the torment of prolonged bombardment,” I said.
“If we must, so we shall,” the Erisian patriarch said.
“Good, then let us proceed,” I concluded.
More days slip through my fingers like pebbles on the white-green beaches. Three months it took for even as bad a plan as this to be put together, to begin digging the tunnels, and selecting which regiments would participate in each element of the plan. The dogs whine, and the hastily recruited militia chafe under the rigidity of drill, but each does their part, and does as their told.
And, of course, the agony of waiting. As I stand upon these rough-hewn shores, crews of workers tunnel into the fortress, half a hemisphere away. Every day I further harm this world and its people for my own dreams of conquest. Every day I expect some disastrous news, of a tunnel collapse or, worse still, that damnable satrap uncovering our scheme.
It is Nendek who arrives behind me on the windy shore.
“The tunnels are complete, all they need is explosives and we shall sink tooth and blade into the Talti,” he said.
“Tell me truthfully, for I fear few else will, or have eyes that can see truth anymore, do you believe in this stratagem?” I asked, gaze fixed upon the horizon, as if the fortress were just over it.
“No,” he said, “do you?”
“Yes, though I fear the consequences of our victory,”
“I would,”
“Have your men ready for their part, and I will marshal the rest to do theirs,”
Dark clouds in the distance heave and flow, almost indistinguishable in the light of a most early dawn. Wings of light crown hundreds of skiffs, scant few feet above the roiling ocean. Low to ocean’s waves, at extreme speed, early in the dawn. All ideas of Nendek.
We knew the great batteries could fire upon their horizon, so coming high or deploying from orbit would play far worse. The best bet is to fly fast, fly apart, and fly low to limit how long we are visible to the dread guns. Of course, I am not willing to throw everything into the hands of Providence. A barrage of meteors, larger than any launched in the past two months, descended upon the fort, timed for precisely when we crossed the threshold. Immediately three white beams raised to the firmament turned rock first into slag and then into dust.
For thirty seconds we endure no counterfire. More of the barrage evaporates under the skilled gunnery of the fortress. Another minute passes as white spray cools my helm. The red balls of rock are halfway to their target.
One of the beams no longer faces the sky, a fireball erupts on the far right flank. Then another as the beam pulses again. And again, and again. The enemy has noticed us.
Uuo pilots the skiff expertly, shifting from side to side and up and down all while maintaining speed. He contrasts well with another skiff in my lance that drifted too low, violently bucking forward as it contacts the water, catapulting its crew and dashing them on the water’s surface.
Thirty more seconds. A second beam begins to melt the far left flank. Forty, no, forty two skiffs are gone, several hundred souls with them. Uuo asks me to reconsider the approach, we both know its foolish to even ask.
The red rock descends ever quicker, a scant mile above the surface now. The fortress nears. The Bazan skiffs begin to give fire, a false assurance at this range. One such absorbs a glancing hit from a shore battery, sending it to the depths below.
Just as our force is reduced further and further I see our salvation, three meteors of the nearly three hundred thrown, impact the earth. One of the outer bastions crumbles completely, alongside its fearsome gun, and the other two shatter the outer walls of the fortress with dust thrown about all the sky. The dust obscures their sensors and farseers, their guns begin to miss, scarcely, but they do, and one seems to have been eliminated outright.
Thirty more seconds until landfall, the great basalt columns that will make our tomb reach out to greet me. Shore fire erupts from several prepared positions, and rakes the decks of some of the forward skiffs killing many. Zzazzuu militia and pairs of Dedege give return fire, and many silver suited defenders dash their brains on the rocks below, bathing them in pink.
Then came the rumble and the roar, a mile inland dust and flame mixed on the outer walls of the palace, and doubtless my brave Andu in gold and my Zzazzuu in black march together, anointed by my red right hand. For only a moment does my mind wander to the siege of Ranne and the great siegeworks done there, but there is no time for such reminiscing.
I leap from the skiff onto a basalt column, joined by my sworn Khorkha, and join the battle in earnest.
Author's Note: Not dead, life happens.
Audience Engagement Section? Something I noticed reading through the previous chapters is that over time they've gotten significantly longer. Not really sure what to make of that, but its certainly a thing.
submitted by Emotional_Sector_249 to HFY [link] [comments]
First: https://www.reddit.com/HFY/comments/opag9w/far_from_home/
“Explain,”
“The constant barrage, and constant destruction, of meteors has begun to affect our farms and fisheries greatly. It is summer on our world and already the chill of fall has set in. The world is darker, and the days bear more clouds,”
I am forever grateful for this brave firm helmet, it does well to hide my disgust. My misbegotten and shameful pride. But I cannot throw away my soldier's lives pointlessly.
“How does your world harvest from the seas, good merchant?” I asked.
“Submersibles and diving suits, why do you ask,” the Erisian said.
“If you would stop the bombardment of that fortress then you will allow my forces to use your talents and your vehicles. Your artisans and forges will work on my command. For that I will spare your world the torment of prolonged bombardment,” I said.
“If we must, so we shall,” the Erisian patriarch said.
“Good, then let us proceed,” I concluded.
More days slip through my fingers like pebbles on the white-green beaches. Three months it took for even as bad a plan as this to be put together, to begin digging the tunnels, and selecting which regiments would participate in each element of the plan. The dogs whine, and the hastily recruited militia chafe under the rigidity of drill, but each does their part, and does as their told.
And, of course, the agony of waiting. As I stand upon these rough-hewn shores, crews of workers tunnel into the fortress, half a hemisphere away. Every day I further harm this world and its people for my own dreams of conquest. Every day I expect some disastrous news, of a tunnel collapse or, worse still, that damnable satrap uncovering our scheme.
It is Nendek who arrives behind me on the windy shore.
“The tunnels are complete, all they need is explosives and we shall sink tooth and blade into the Talti,” he said.
“Tell me truthfully, for I fear few else will, or have eyes that can see truth anymore, do you believe in this stratagem?” I asked, gaze fixed upon the horizon, as if the fortress were just over it.
“No,” he said, “do you?”
“Yes, though I fear the consequences of our victory,”
“I would,”
“Have your men ready for their part, and I will marshal the rest to do theirs,”
Dark clouds in the distance heave and flow, almost indistinguishable in the light of a most early dawn. Wings of light crown hundreds of skiffs, scant few feet above the roiling ocean. Low to ocean’s waves, at extreme speed, early in the dawn. All ideas of Nendek.
We knew the great batteries could fire upon their horizon, so coming high or deploying from orbit would play far worse. The best bet is to fly fast, fly apart, and fly low to limit how long we are visible to the dread guns. Of course, I am not willing to throw everything into the hands of Providence. A barrage of meteors, larger than any launched in the past two months, descended upon the fort, timed for precisely when we crossed the threshold. Immediately three white beams raised to the firmament turned rock first into slag and then into dust.
For thirty seconds we endure no counterfire. More of the barrage evaporates under the skilled gunnery of the fortress. Another minute passes as white spray cools my helm. The red balls of rock are halfway to their target.
One of the beams no longer faces the sky, a fireball erupts on the far right flank. Then another as the beam pulses again. And again, and again. The enemy has noticed us.
Uuo pilots the skiff expertly, shifting from side to side and up and down all while maintaining speed. He contrasts well with another skiff in my lance that drifted too low, violently bucking forward as it contacts the water, catapulting its crew and dashing them on the water’s surface.
Thirty more seconds. A second beam begins to melt the far left flank. Forty, no, forty two skiffs are gone, several hundred souls with them. Uuo asks me to reconsider the approach, we both know its foolish to even ask.
The red rock descends ever quicker, a scant mile above the surface now. The fortress nears. The Bazan skiffs begin to give fire, a false assurance at this range. One such absorbs a glancing hit from a shore battery, sending it to the depths below.
Just as our force is reduced further and further I see our salvation, three meteors of the nearly three hundred thrown, impact the earth. One of the outer bastions crumbles completely, alongside its fearsome gun, and the other two shatter the outer walls of the fortress with dust thrown about all the sky. The dust obscures their sensors and farseers, their guns begin to miss, scarcely, but they do, and one seems to have been eliminated outright.
Thirty more seconds until landfall, the great basalt columns that will make our tomb reach out to greet me. Shore fire erupts from several prepared positions, and rakes the decks of some of the forward skiffs killing many. Zzazzuu militia and pairs of Dedege give return fire, and many silver suited defenders dash their brains on the rocks below, bathing them in pink.
Then came the rumble and the roar, a mile inland dust and flame mixed on the outer walls of the palace, and doubtless my brave Andu in gold and my Zzazzuu in black march together, anointed by my red right hand. For only a moment does my mind wander to the siege of Ranne and the great siegeworks done there, but there is no time for such reminiscing.
I leap from the skiff onto a basalt column, joined by my sworn Khorkha, and join the battle in earnest.
Author's Note: Not dead, life happens.
Audience Engagement Section? Something I noticed reading through the previous chapters is that over time they've gotten significantly longer. Not really sure what to make of that, but its certainly a thing.
2023.06.07 23:13 gurukulofcivil What is the Purpose of Pile Cap Design? 13 Important Points
Table of Contents
What are a Pile and Pile Cap?
Can Pile foundations withstand more weight than spread footing?
What are pile caps and their functions?
Features of Pile Cap
Shape and Size of Pile Caps:
Depth of Pile Cap:
What are the different types of Pile foundations?
Depending on the Function or Use:
Materials and Construction Methods for Soil Compactor Piles:
When should you use for bored piles and driven piles?
How do you size a Pile Cap?
How do you calculate Pile spacing?
How to determine the thickness of the Pile Cap?
How to Install Piling Caps?
Innovation in Pile Cap Design:
Post-tensioned pile caps:
Precast pile caps:
Modular pile caps:
Fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) pile caps:
Hybrid pile caps:
Risks and Mitigation Measures of Pile Cap Design
📷
When a structure has a lot of large, concentrated loads, such as a high-rise skyscraper, a bridge, or a water tank. To create an appropriate stable foundation, a pile cap is a dense concrete pad that sits on concrete piles or timber piles put into the soft or less-strong ground that would otherwise need ground improvement. It is frequently found in the deep foundation of a building, usually a multi-story structure or at support level or heavy equipment, or in the deep foundation of a bridge.
The load of the building is distributed into the piles by the cast concrete pile top. A "raft," which is a concrete foundation floor sitting directly on soft soil that may be prone to subsidence, is a comparable construction to a pile cap.
A rough foundation is a comparable form of foundation for pile caps. The load from the columns is carried directly through the raft to the mud straight in the case of the raft, which is a dense and broad RCC slab lying immediately at the base. The raft can only be utilised if the soil layer is stable and capable of sustaining large weights without failing; otherwise, piles and pile caps are typically used.
Read More:
How to become a Structure Engineer? 8 Important Points
What is Non-destructive Testing? 10 important points
How to Learn ETABS Step by Step? 7 Important Points
Why does Concrete need Reinforcement? 6 Important Points
What is the Function of Bridge Foundation or Pier and its Types? 5 Important Points
Pre-stressed Concrete, Pre-tensioning and Post-tensioning: 3 Important Points
When the top strata consist of degraded rock overlying strata of sound rock, bored pier foundations are preferred. It becomes difficult to drive bearing piles into the decomposed rock in this situation. Bored pier foundations can be easily erected in stiff clays that offer significant resistance to the drive of a bearing pile.
Overall, these innovations in pile cap design have improved the efficiency, sustainability, and durability of structures, while also reducing construction costs and time.
Like any other construction project, pile cap design comes with its own set of risks. Some common risks and mitigation measures of pile cap design are:
Overall, it is important to carefully assess and manage risks in pile cap design to ensure that the final product is safe, efficient and meets the required specifications. This can be achieved through careful planning, thorough inspections, and effective risk mitigation strategies.
I hope the blog provides you with a sound understanding of the Pile Cap Design and its associated features.
Please feel free to like, share and comment.
Admin, gcelab.com
Please see our Pillar Post to know why we founded gcelab.com.
submitted by gurukulofcivil to u/gurukulofcivil [link] [comments]
What are a Pile and Pile Cap?
Can Pile foundations withstand more weight than spread footing?
What are pile caps and their functions?
Features of Pile Cap
Shape and Size of Pile Caps:
Depth of Pile Cap:
What are the different types of Pile foundations?
Depending on the Function or Use:
Materials and Construction Methods for Soil Compactor Piles:
When should you use for bored piles and driven piles?
How do you size a Pile Cap?
How do you calculate Pile spacing?
How to determine the thickness of the Pile Cap?
How to Install Piling Caps?
Innovation in Pile Cap Design:
Post-tensioned pile caps:
Precast pile caps:
Modular pile caps:
Fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) pile caps:
Hybrid pile caps:
Risks and Mitigation Measures of Pile Cap Design
What are a Pile and Pile Cap?
A pile is a long cylinder of strong material, like concrete that is pushed into the ground to provide a stable foundation for structures built on top of it. The following scenarios need the usage of pile foundations: When a layer of poor soil is present at the surface. Because this layer is unable to hold the load of the building, the loads must be transmitted to the layer of firmer soil or hard rock that lies beneath the weak layer.📷
When a structure has a lot of large, concentrated loads, such as a high-rise skyscraper, a bridge, or a water tank. To create an appropriate stable foundation, a pile cap is a dense concrete pad that sits on concrete piles or timber piles put into the soft or less-strong ground that would otherwise need ground improvement. It is frequently found in the deep foundation of a building, usually a multi-story structure or at support level or heavy equipment, or in the deep foundation of a bridge.
The load of the building is distributed into the piles by the cast concrete pile top. A "raft," which is a concrete foundation floor sitting directly on soft soil that may be prone to subsidence, is a comparable construction to a pile cap.
Can Pile foundations withstand more weight than spread footing?
Yes, the load-carrying capacity of pile foundation is superior to spread footings. The pile foundation transmits the load to the hard strata.What are pile caps and their functions?
Pile caps are dense reinforced concrete mats that sit over “concrete or wooden piles (driven, bored, or cast-in-place) to provide foundation stability. The major aim of the pile cap is to transmit the load of the columns to the underlying piles, which is usually too large for large buildings. The pile caps are tested and designed to withstand the load of the superstructure.A rough foundation is a comparable form of foundation for pile caps. The load from the columns is carried directly through the raft to the mud straight in the case of the raft, which is a dense and broad RCC slab lying immediately at the base. The raft can only be utilised if the soil layer is stable and capable of sustaining large weights without failing; otherwise, piles and pile caps are typically used.
Read More:
How to become a Structure Engineer? 8 Important Points
What is Non-destructive Testing? 10 important points
How to Learn ETABS Step by Step? 7 Important Points
Features of Pile Cap
- The M25 mix is the minimal concrete grade that can be used to make heaps and pile caps.
- A full pile cap can be fitted intact in the case of minor piles, such as 2-3 piles.
- Casting is done in layers for larger pile caps.
- The column reinforcing bars are embedded in the pile caps up to the length of their growth.
- After casting, the pile caps are fixed for 28/29 days and the shuttering is detached, the adjacent soil is flattened and compacted using a compactor.
- When a number of piles are grouped, piles are constructed like a raft instead of piles.
📷
Shape and Size of Pile Caps:
Pile caps are dense reinforced concrete mats that provide foundation stability by resting on concrete or woodpiles (driven or bored and cast-in-situ). These pile cap sizes lower the amount of planning area required for a symmetrical pile layout in relation to the load. The pile cap should allow the outer pile to exceed a minimum of 150 mm, although it should not be excessive, typically not exceeding the pile's diameter.Depth of Pile Cap:
The depth of pile cap is dependent on the following factors:- Shear Capability of Pile Cap.
- Soil shrinkage and swelling.
- Frost attacks.
- Pile anchorage.
- Water table & soluble sulfates.
- Holding bolt assemblages for steel columns.
What are the different types of Pile foundations?
Pile foundations are classed according to their function, materials, and installation procedure, among other factors. The types of piling foundations utilised in construction are as follows:Depending on the Function or Use:
- Load Bearing Piles
- End Bearing Piles
- Friction Piles
- Sheet Piles
Materials and Construction Methods for Soil Compactor Piles:
- Piles of wood
- Piles of Concrete
- Piles of steel
- Piles made of composite materials
Why does Concrete need Reinforcement? 6 Important Points
What is the Function of Bridge Foundation or Pier and its Types? 5 Important Points
Pre-stressed Concrete, Pre-tensioning and Post-tensioning: 3 Important Points
When should you use for bored piles and driven piles?
Driven piles are driven straight in and transmit the load by friction and/or bearing, whereas bored pier foundations are normally poured in place and transfer the load only through bearing Bored pier foundations are typically shallower than driven pile foundations.When the top strata consist of degraded rock overlying strata of sound rock, bored pier foundations are preferred. It becomes difficult to drive bearing piles into the decomposed rock in this situation. Bored pier foundations can be easily erected in stiff clays that offer significant resistance to the drive of a bearing pile.
How do you size a Pile Cap?
The number of piles required to support the weight determines the plan dimensions of a pile cap. The shape and size of the Pile Caps are normally as below:- Hexagonal for six to seven piles
- Triangular for three piles
- Rectangular for more than seven piles
How do you calculate Pile spacing?
The pile should be at least 3 feet wide, 3 feet across, and 3 feet tall in order to reach optimal temperatures (one cubic yard). That is the smallest compost pile that can generate temperatures high enough to kill weeds and pathogens, but smaller compost piles will also work less efficiently.How to determine the thickness of the Pile Cap?
Determining the thickness of the Pile Cap plays a very important in the process of the Pile Cap Design. The thickness of the pile cap should be adequate enough to comply with the anchorage bond length parameters. As a thumb rule, if the diameter of the pile is less than 550mm, then pile thickness will be twice the diameter of the pile cap. If the diameter of the pile is more than 550mm, then pile thickness will be (1/3 (8 times of pile diameter - 600mm)).How to Install Piling Caps?
Piling caps are available in a range of sizes. It is recommended to provide 26 sizes of piling caps in two shapes:- Round and
- Square, ranging from 6 inches to 18 and a half inches.
Innovation in Pile Cap Design:
Here are some innovations in pile cap design:Post-tensioned pile caps:
Post-tensioning is a technique that involves applying tension to steel cables after the concrete has hardened. Post-tensioned pile caps use this technique to increase their strength and reduce the amount of steel required, resulting in a more efficient and cost-effective design.Precast pile caps:
Precast pile caps are manufactured offsite and then transported to the construction site for installation. This method reduces construction time and can result in a more consistent and higher-quality product.Modular pile caps:
Modular pile caps are designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, making them ideal for temporary structures or structures that need to be relocated. They can also be used to speed up the construction process, as they can be prefabricated offsite and then assembled quickly on-site.Fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) pile caps:
Fibre-reinforced polymer FRP pile caps are made of composite material that is lightweight, corrosion-resistant and has a high strength-to-weight ratio. FRP pile caps offer a cost-effective solution for structures in corrosive environments, such as coastal areas or chemical plants.Hybrid pile caps:
Hybrid pile caps combine different materials, such as steel and concrete, to create a more efficient design. They can be designed to maximize the benefits of each material while minimizing their drawbacks, resulting in a more sustainable and cost-effective solution.Overall, these innovations in pile cap design have improved the efficiency, sustainability, and durability of structures, while also reducing construction costs and time.
Risks and Mitigation Measures of Pile Cap Design
Risk MitigationInadequate bearing capacity of soilConduct a thorough geotechnical investigation to determine the bearing capacity of the soil. Choose appropriate piles or improve the soil before construction.Inaccurate load calculationsUse accurate load calculations based on the actual loads that the pile cap will support. Verify the load calculations with a structural engineer.Poor quality of materials or workmanshipUse high-quality materials and ensure that the pile cap is constructed according to the design specifications. Conduct regular quality checks and inspections during construction.Settlement or heave of the foundationMonitor the foundation for settlement or heave during and after construction. Take corrective action if settlement or heave exceeds the allowable limits.Construction delays or budget overrunsDevelop a realistic construction schedule and budget. Use efficient construction methods and monitor progress regularly. Make necessary adjustments to the schedule and budget as needed.Environmental factors such as flooding, earthquakes or hurricanesConsider the potential impact of environmental factors during the design phase. Use appropriate materials and design techniques to withstand these events.Like any other construction project, pile cap design comes with its own set of risks. Some common risks and mitigation measures of pile cap design are:
Overall, it is important to carefully assess and manage risks in pile cap design to ensure that the final product is safe, efficient and meets the required specifications. This can be achieved through careful planning, thorough inspections, and effective risk mitigation strategies.
I hope the blog provides you with a sound understanding of the Pile Cap Design and its associated features.
Please feel free to like, share and comment.
Admin, gcelab.com
Please see our Pillar Post to know why we founded gcelab.com.
2023.06.07 23:06 SageParadoxFGC Huge Lore Nerd Makes Project Moon OCs and Tries To Make Sinner Profiles Out Of Them [Warning: Long And Pointless Text]
So, being the writing enjoyer, huge lore nerd and general Project Moon brainrotter that I am, I decided to make a bunch of Project Moon OCs. I really like how Limbus Company does their "character profile" set-ups (both dialogue and in-gameplay stat blocks), so I decided I was going to start filling those out for said characters. However, as a certified goon, I realised that a) it's important to me that said statblocks are not incredibly broken or underpowered (say, around, A-tier?) and b) I didn't have the understanding of the game or its mechanics required to avoid that.
As such, I am going to enlist some helpful fellow PM brainrotters (that's you) in order to ensure that I do it in a way that is interesting, in-character, not too strong, and not too weak. That is, if people are sufficiently nerdy to do so.
Just a preface - these are meant to be their own characters. As such, they aren't meant to be Identities which a Sinner would wear, but nor are they "an alternate group of Sinners Vergilius would collect to find the Golden Branches". I just like how the Limbus Company stat profiles and dialogue and EGOs and such work.
Here are summaries of the OCs, for preliminary overview and suggestions. I'll probably end up making a post for each separate character once I have a better idea of how I want to present them but this should give you an idea of whether I have anything interesting cooking or not.
Amy: Hana Director (West Branch, Section 2/3?). A huge stickler for the rules, who does everything "by the book". She absolutely hates corruption, and people not living up to the "expected standards" of their job or role, and personally audits Offices and businesses she comes across, earning her the nickname of "Hana's Inquisitor". She wants to believe in justice, but she lives in the City, so that's no easy feat. Gameplay-wise, I thought that a heavily single-target character which focuses on Rupture would make sense - with the addition of a debuff called Scrutinized which interacts with her skills in various rupture-related ways, and itself causes allies to heal for SP if the target dies to an attack that triggers Rupture. I would do something with the Trigrams, but that doesn't feel "unique" enough, and also I have no clue how those would be implemented in Limbus' style.
Antonio: A young, ruthless capo of the Thumb. Antonio made it quickly up the ranks with his quick tongue, quicker wit, and absolute loyalty to the hierarchy of the Syndicate. He is frequently sarcastic and critical, though he obviously reigns in these tendencies around his superiors. He and his men make much use of concusssive rounds, and his marksmanship is as impressively precise as he is brutally efficient. Gameplay wise, I thought that an ammo-based character would be interesting, with a focus on: blunt damage (he is using concussive/pellet rounds), bleed (he ruthlessly aims for vitals and is quite good at it, he's also a member of the Thumb), and a reload mechanic (we don't have one yet, and he's a member of the Thumb).
August: A member of Nagel Und Hammer's research teams, August frequently impales themselves with numerous (memory-containing) nails in a strange ritual of self-mutilation. Despite this alleged waste of N-Corp's Singularity, and August's concerning personality, the higher-ups overlook this for two reasons: August's innate genius competence, and August's absolutely fanatical work ethic and loyalty to N-Corp. Both as a crusader against the only things August considers "filthier" than themselves, and as a researcher on N-Corp's Singularity and the information and experiences gained from it, August is tireless, intelligent, and without scruples. Gameplay-wise, Nails, obviously, but possibly self-damage and self-healing? I wasn't really sure where to go with this, so suggestions would be appreciated.
Jason: The Operator of the Argo Office (a Zwei Associate, Grade 3). Young, naïve and absolutely prodigious, Jason spearheads a comprehensive peacekeeping operation through charisma, a sparkling intellect and impressive combat talent. Despite all of this, he cannot bear to see humanity in its current state, and searches constantly for any means to spread his peace across the entire City. Gameplay-wise, I thought a support character based on granting buffs to allies would be sensible. Protection, Haste, SP buffs? Something else?
Saz: An actress from District 9 who became enraptured by the Pianist's performance. Mysterious, joyful and cryptic, she seems to dance to a tune all her own, and meanders across the city from District to District. She has a bounty on her head as an Urban Nightmare due to her capriciousness: despite occasional actions of seeming selflessness, she sometimes kills random Nest-dwellers wherever she happens to be. She has been noted to say that she wishes to change the City in some way, considering its current state a "dull backdrop" to her performance, and wishing for a "stage with greater freedom to act". Gameplay-wise, I thought a character similar to W-Corp Don Quixote would be best - namely, a character who functions off of an incredibly powerful but potentially detrimental third Skill. Saz stacks Haste and Charge in order to reach a third skill that is absolutely devastating at full power, but targets herself if she doesn't possess the right resources.
Paul: A chef from District 23, Paul is quite unique for his distaste for overusing human meat. That is not to say he doesn't use it - after all, it's "the ultimate taste" - but to him, he finds it disrespectful to use too much of it. He believes it "cheapens" the flavour, which is very important to him as an artisanal chef. He also requisitions rare and expensive meats from the Outskirts and Ruins, from "exotic" ingredients, and produces his own homemade breads and other foodstuffs, making his food very high quality, if a little expensive. This limits his clientele, effectively forever barring him from reaching the level of the Eight Chefs, but Paul has come to terms with this. Gameplay-wise, bleed and self-healing are obvious staples, but I was thinking about having him be affected by high Sanity in some way - perhaps an abnormal number of [Heads Hit] effects?
Jacob: The Head of the Information Team in a branch facility of Lobotomy Corporation, Jacob was the only survivor after the White Nights and Dark Days commenced. He managed to escape thanks in no small part due to his Synchronization with Crimson Comet, an Aberration of Blue Star. Jacob himself used to be very idealistic and talented, having come to LobCorp for this reason. However, as the years went on, Jacob became more and more cynical and jaded. He is presently looking for work in T-Corp, seeing that as his next best option and knowing T-Corp had a relationship with his previous workplace, but for now he is doing Fixer work with Crimson Comet in order to pay the bills. Gameplay-wise, I found Tremor and Sinking to be the best way of representing him. Sort of like LCCB Ishmael, but rather than Ammo as his "resource management", I was thinking negative Sanity (to represent Crimson Comet's effect on his mental state and combat capability).
Enzo: A Senior W Corp Cleanup Crew agent, Enzo is well-known internally for his ability to make light of even the most heinous situations - a useful ability considering his line of work. His tendencies to crack genuinely funny jokes and his general sociability do not distract him from his job, though - despite his jovial, sometimes even flirtatious behaviour, Enzo is brutally efficient at "cleaning up" the aftermath of W-Corp's Singularities, and is fiercely loyal to the Wing. Owing to his adoption from the horrifying Backstreets of District 23 by a W-Corp Feather, Enzo considers the Cleanup Crew (and the Wing as a whole) his "family", and won't hesitate to protect them with his life, which has won him many favours. Gameplay-wise, Charge is obvious. Ideally some form of "tankier" ID, perhaps? I'm not really sure of the validity of tanks in a game like Limbus Company, though.
Manasseh: A peculiar Messenger of the Index, Manasseh was previously a Weaver, but the Prescripts demoted him to Messenger after his hubris got the better of him. Rather than be dismayed at this turn of events, Manasseh was amused - the sadistic thrill he got from watching the whims of the City crush a stranger's soul was even better in person. Now, he acts as a herald of the Prescripts in truth, an ill omen, a harbinger of bad news. Fate may not be his to command, but it is his to proclaim, and who better than he to be a bridge between the present and the inevitable future? Gameplay-wise, I pictured a character who has an easier time winning clashes, and slowly applies more and more Paralysis and Fragility as the fight goes on.
Julia: A diplomat, coordinator and "fieldwork operative" from the April Office (a Cinq Associate, Grade 2), Julia is a competent, well-reputed Fixer who handles her contracts with demure composure and frank professionalism. However, this persona is a facade: a shell meant to disguise Julia's disgust and contempt at the state of the City and its residents. Recently, her cocoon has begun to break open, leaving her with unusual abilities she is only too happy to use to vent her frustrations through her work. Gameplay-wise, I believe Charge and negative Sanity might be reasonable mechanics, though I find myself drawn strangely to the idea of a character with big benefits on [Clash Lose] (which would be quite hard to balance, unfortunately).
Sasgonei: A senior member of the Dragonbone Workshop, a workshop specialising in semi-autonomous body augmentations and weaponry constructed from exotic materials, Sasgonei specialises in instruction and training of his suboordinates. He is close with his fellow Dragonbone Fixers, and is seen in a somewhat paternal light by his students. Despite the City's usual policy of "it's not personal", Sasgonei has been known to go on a rampage when his Workshop or its personnel have been threatened, and has generated enough of a reputation to be known by name to certain Tres Association officials. Gameplay-wise, I was thinking of a character who hands out simple but effective buffs: stuff like Protection, Damage Up, Haste and so on. I was also thinking an actually usable Counter skill could be cool, but I'm not sure how that would function (self-healing, to make it viable to take damage?).
Zoroas: A reclusive member of the Seven Association's Western Branch's Section 1, Zoroas sees his work as artistry. From combat to information gathering, he fulfils his assignments with a certain sense of dignity and discretion that leads clients to be favourable toward him. His refined taste extends to the battlefield as well, disdaining weaponry or techniques with a lack of finesse, and procuring information and removing obstacles with much the same elegance that he displays otherwise. He has recently shown a fascination with the Distortion Phenomenon, believing it to be a sacred representation of the beauty of human struggle, and seeks to analyse any Distortions he comes across. Gameplay-wise, I believe Poise (obvious) and Fragility (as a member of the Seven Association) would be appropriate, but I'm accepting suggestions.
submitted by SageParadoxFGC to limbuscompany [link] [comments]
As such, I am going to enlist some helpful fellow PM brainrotters (that's you) in order to ensure that I do it in a way that is interesting, in-character, not too strong, and not too weak. That is, if people are sufficiently nerdy to do so.
Just a preface - these are meant to be their own characters. As such, they aren't meant to be Identities which a Sinner would wear, but nor are they "an alternate group of Sinners Vergilius would collect to find the Golden Branches". I just like how the Limbus Company stat profiles and dialogue and EGOs and such work.
Here are summaries of the OCs, for preliminary overview and suggestions. I'll probably end up making a post for each separate character once I have a better idea of how I want to present them but this should give you an idea of whether I have anything interesting cooking or not.
Amy: Hana Director (West Branch, Section 2/3?). A huge stickler for the rules, who does everything "by the book". She absolutely hates corruption, and people not living up to the "expected standards" of their job or role, and personally audits Offices and businesses she comes across, earning her the nickname of "Hana's Inquisitor". She wants to believe in justice, but she lives in the City, so that's no easy feat. Gameplay-wise, I thought that a heavily single-target character which focuses on Rupture would make sense - with the addition of a debuff called Scrutinized which interacts with her skills in various rupture-related ways, and itself causes allies to heal for SP if the target dies to an attack that triggers Rupture. I would do something with the Trigrams, but that doesn't feel "unique" enough, and also I have no clue how those would be implemented in Limbus' style.
Antonio: A young, ruthless capo of the Thumb. Antonio made it quickly up the ranks with his quick tongue, quicker wit, and absolute loyalty to the hierarchy of the Syndicate. He is frequently sarcastic and critical, though he obviously reigns in these tendencies around his superiors. He and his men make much use of concusssive rounds, and his marksmanship is as impressively precise as he is brutally efficient. Gameplay wise, I thought that an ammo-based character would be interesting, with a focus on: blunt damage (he is using concussive/pellet rounds), bleed (he ruthlessly aims for vitals and is quite good at it, he's also a member of the Thumb), and a reload mechanic (we don't have one yet, and he's a member of the Thumb).
August: A member of Nagel Und Hammer's research teams, August frequently impales themselves with numerous (memory-containing) nails in a strange ritual of self-mutilation. Despite this alleged waste of N-Corp's Singularity, and August's concerning personality, the higher-ups overlook this for two reasons: August's innate genius competence, and August's absolutely fanatical work ethic and loyalty to N-Corp. Both as a crusader against the only things August considers "filthier" than themselves, and as a researcher on N-Corp's Singularity and the information and experiences gained from it, August is tireless, intelligent, and without scruples. Gameplay-wise, Nails, obviously, but possibly self-damage and self-healing? I wasn't really sure where to go with this, so suggestions would be appreciated.
Jason: The Operator of the Argo Office (a Zwei Associate, Grade 3). Young, naïve and absolutely prodigious, Jason spearheads a comprehensive peacekeeping operation through charisma, a sparkling intellect and impressive combat talent. Despite all of this, he cannot bear to see humanity in its current state, and searches constantly for any means to spread his peace across the entire City. Gameplay-wise, I thought a support character based on granting buffs to allies would be sensible. Protection, Haste, SP buffs? Something else?
Saz: An actress from District 9 who became enraptured by the Pianist's performance. Mysterious, joyful and cryptic, she seems to dance to a tune all her own, and meanders across the city from District to District. She has a bounty on her head as an Urban Nightmare due to her capriciousness: despite occasional actions of seeming selflessness, she sometimes kills random Nest-dwellers wherever she happens to be. She has been noted to say that she wishes to change the City in some way, considering its current state a "dull backdrop" to her performance, and wishing for a "stage with greater freedom to act". Gameplay-wise, I thought a character similar to W-Corp Don Quixote would be best - namely, a character who functions off of an incredibly powerful but potentially detrimental third Skill. Saz stacks Haste and Charge in order to reach a third skill that is absolutely devastating at full power, but targets herself if she doesn't possess the right resources.
Paul: A chef from District 23, Paul is quite unique for his distaste for overusing human meat. That is not to say he doesn't use it - after all, it's "the ultimate taste" - but to him, he finds it disrespectful to use too much of it. He believes it "cheapens" the flavour, which is very important to him as an artisanal chef. He also requisitions rare and expensive meats from the Outskirts and Ruins, from "exotic" ingredients, and produces his own homemade breads and other foodstuffs, making his food very high quality, if a little expensive. This limits his clientele, effectively forever barring him from reaching the level of the Eight Chefs, but Paul has come to terms with this. Gameplay-wise, bleed and self-healing are obvious staples, but I was thinking about having him be affected by high Sanity in some way - perhaps an abnormal number of [Heads Hit] effects?
Jacob: The Head of the Information Team in a branch facility of Lobotomy Corporation, Jacob was the only survivor after the White Nights and Dark Days commenced. He managed to escape thanks in no small part due to his Synchronization with Crimson Comet, an Aberration of Blue Star. Jacob himself used to be very idealistic and talented, having come to LobCorp for this reason. However, as the years went on, Jacob became more and more cynical and jaded. He is presently looking for work in T-Corp, seeing that as his next best option and knowing T-Corp had a relationship with his previous workplace, but for now he is doing Fixer work with Crimson Comet in order to pay the bills. Gameplay-wise, I found Tremor and Sinking to be the best way of representing him. Sort of like LCCB Ishmael, but rather than Ammo as his "resource management", I was thinking negative Sanity (to represent Crimson Comet's effect on his mental state and combat capability).
Enzo: A Senior W Corp Cleanup Crew agent, Enzo is well-known internally for his ability to make light of even the most heinous situations - a useful ability considering his line of work. His tendencies to crack genuinely funny jokes and his general sociability do not distract him from his job, though - despite his jovial, sometimes even flirtatious behaviour, Enzo is brutally efficient at "cleaning up" the aftermath of W-Corp's Singularities, and is fiercely loyal to the Wing. Owing to his adoption from the horrifying Backstreets of District 23 by a W-Corp Feather, Enzo considers the Cleanup Crew (and the Wing as a whole) his "family", and won't hesitate to protect them with his life, which has won him many favours. Gameplay-wise, Charge is obvious. Ideally some form of "tankier" ID, perhaps? I'm not really sure of the validity of tanks in a game like Limbus Company, though.
Manasseh: A peculiar Messenger of the Index, Manasseh was previously a Weaver, but the Prescripts demoted him to Messenger after his hubris got the better of him. Rather than be dismayed at this turn of events, Manasseh was amused - the sadistic thrill he got from watching the whims of the City crush a stranger's soul was even better in person. Now, he acts as a herald of the Prescripts in truth, an ill omen, a harbinger of bad news. Fate may not be his to command, but it is his to proclaim, and who better than he to be a bridge between the present and the inevitable future? Gameplay-wise, I pictured a character who has an easier time winning clashes, and slowly applies more and more Paralysis and Fragility as the fight goes on.
Julia: A diplomat, coordinator and "fieldwork operative" from the April Office (a Cinq Associate, Grade 2), Julia is a competent, well-reputed Fixer who handles her contracts with demure composure and frank professionalism. However, this persona is a facade: a shell meant to disguise Julia's disgust and contempt at the state of the City and its residents. Recently, her cocoon has begun to break open, leaving her with unusual abilities she is only too happy to use to vent her frustrations through her work. Gameplay-wise, I believe Charge and negative Sanity might be reasonable mechanics, though I find myself drawn strangely to the idea of a character with big benefits on [Clash Lose] (which would be quite hard to balance, unfortunately).
Sasgonei: A senior member of the Dragonbone Workshop, a workshop specialising in semi-autonomous body augmentations and weaponry constructed from exotic materials, Sasgonei specialises in instruction and training of his suboordinates. He is close with his fellow Dragonbone Fixers, and is seen in a somewhat paternal light by his students. Despite the City's usual policy of "it's not personal", Sasgonei has been known to go on a rampage when his Workshop or its personnel have been threatened, and has generated enough of a reputation to be known by name to certain Tres Association officials. Gameplay-wise, I was thinking of a character who hands out simple but effective buffs: stuff like Protection, Damage Up, Haste and so on. I was also thinking an actually usable Counter skill could be cool, but I'm not sure how that would function (self-healing, to make it viable to take damage?).
Zoroas: A reclusive member of the Seven Association's Western Branch's Section 1, Zoroas sees his work as artistry. From combat to information gathering, he fulfils his assignments with a certain sense of dignity and discretion that leads clients to be favourable toward him. His refined taste extends to the battlefield as well, disdaining weaponry or techniques with a lack of finesse, and procuring information and removing obstacles with much the same elegance that he displays otherwise. He has recently shown a fascination with the Distortion Phenomenon, believing it to be a sacred representation of the beauty of human struggle, and seeks to analyse any Distortions he comes across. Gameplay-wise, I believe Poise (obvious) and Fragility (as a member of the Seven Association) would be appropriate, but I'm accepting suggestions.
2023.06.07 20:49 Ri7e [H] list of games [W] Street Fighter 6 (PC or PS5)
I can trade multiple games for it.
>observer_ Steam Available
A Story About My Uncle Steam Available
AER Memories of Old Steam Available
Abyss Odyssey Steam Available
Abyss Odyssey Steam Available
Acceleration of SUGURI 2 Steam Available
Attractio Steam Available
Battle Chef Brigade Steam Available
Bear With Me - Collector's Edition Steam Available
Blackguards 2 Steam Available
Blackguards Steam Available
Bone - Episode 1 & Episode 2 Steam Available
Burnout Paradise: The Ultimate Box Origin Key Origin Available
Cities: Skylines + After Dark DLC Steam Available
Citizens of Earth Steam Available
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 - Uprising Origin Key Origin Available
Contagion Steam Available
Contagion Steam Available
Contagion Steam Available
Contagion Steam Available
Cook, Serve, Delicious! 2!! Steam Available
Crazy Machines 3 Steam Available
Crysis 2 Maximum Edition Origin Key Origin Available
Cultist Simulator Steam Available
Darkside Detective Steam Available
Darksiders II: Deathinitive Edition Steam Available
Dead Island Definitive Edition Steam Available
Dead Rising 4 Steam Available
Deadly Sin 2 Steam Available
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided Steam Available
Devil May Cry HD Collection PS3 Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1 The Shadow of New Despair Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: BM03 Vegalta Gold Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Blood Storm Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Depth Crawler Gold Coat Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gigantus DCC-Gogo. Marking Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gigantus DCC-Zero Marking Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gigantus Tank, Bullet Girls Marking Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gigantus Tank, EDF IFPS Markings Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gigantus Tank, Natsuiro HS Markings Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gleipnir Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Ifrit Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Mission Pack 1: Time of the Mutants Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Mission Pack 2: Extreme Battle Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Pure Decoy Launcher 5 Pack A Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Pure Decoy Launcher 5 Pack B Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Reflectron Laser Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Spark Lancer Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Sting Shot Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Volatile Napalm Steam Available
Euro Truck Simulator 2 Steam Available
FEZ Steam Available
Fight'N Rage Steam Available
Figment Steam Available
Forged Battalion Steam Available
GOD EATER 2 Rage Burst Steam Available
HITMAN™: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON Steam Available
Hard Reset Redux Steam Available
Hector: Badge of Carnage Steam Available
Immortal Redneck Steam Available
Insurgency Steam Available
Interplanetary: Enhanced Edition Steam Available
Jurassic Park: The Game Steam Available
Just Cause 3 XXL Edition Steam Available
Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth Steam Available
Kona Steam Available
LOST PLANET 3 PS3 Available
Lara Croft GO Steam Available
Laser League Steam Available
Late Shift Steam Available
Legionwood 2: Rise of the Eternal's Realm Steam Available
Little Nightmares Steam Available
METAL GEAR SOLID V: GROUND ZEROES Steam Available
METAL GEAR SOLID V: The Definitive Experience DLC Steam Available
Mafia III: Sign of the Times Steam Available
Medal of Honor Origin Key Origin Available
Mega Man 9 & 10 Combo Pack PS3 Available
Mega Man Legacy Collection Steam Available
Men of War: Assault Squad GOTY Steam Available
Mirror's Edge Origin Key Origin Available
Monaco: What's Yours Is Mine Steam Available
Moon Hunters Steam Available
NBA Playgrounds Steam Available
NeuroVoider Steam Available
Outlast 2 Steam Available
PAC-MAN 256 Steam Available
PAYDAY 2 - Lycanwulf and The One Below Masks Steam Available
Paradigm Steam Available
Pathologic Classic HD Steam Available
Portal Knights Steam Available
Purrfect Date - Visual Novel/Dating Simulator Steam Available
Puzzle Agent 2 Steam Available
Puzzle Agent Steam Available
Q.U.B.E. 2 Steam Available
RUINER Steam Available
Race the Sun Flippfly Flippfly Available
Race the Sun Steam Available
Regions of Ruin Steam Available
Remember Me PS3 Available
Resident Evil Revelations Steam Available
Running with Rifles Steam Available
SPINTIRES™ Steam Available
Sam & Max: Devil's Playhouse Steam Available
Sam & Max: Season 1 Steam Available
Sam & Max: Season 2 Steam Available
Scribblenauts Unlimited Steam Available
Serial Cleaner Steam Available
Seven: The Days Long Gone Steam Available
Shiness: The Lightning Kingdom Steam Available
Skyborn Steam Available
Slipstream Steam Available
Sniper Elite V2 Steam Available
Strider PS4 Available
Styx: Shards of Darkness Steam Available
Subterrain Steam Available
Sudden Strike 4 Steam Available
Sundered Steam Available
Sweet Lily Dreams Steam Available
Tales of Berseria™ Steam Available
Telltale Texas Hold'em Steam Available
Teslagrad Steam Available
The Bridge Steam Available
The Dwarves Steam Available
The Escapists 2 Steam Available
The Sims 3 Date Night Key Origin Available
The Sims 3 High End Loft Stuff Key Origin Available
The Sims 3 Key Origin Available
The Sims 3 Late Night Key Origin Available
The Surge Steam Available
To the Moon Steam Available
Warhammer 40,000: Eternal Crusade Steam Available
Warhammer: Vermintide 2 - Collector's Edition Steam Available
Wizard of Legend Steam Available
Wolf of the Battlefield: Commando 3 PS3 Available
Yooka-Laylee Steam Available
Zombie Night Terror Steam Available
submitted by Ri7e to GameTrade [link] [comments]
>observer_ Steam Available
A Story About My Uncle Steam Available
AER Memories of Old Steam Available
Abyss Odyssey Steam Available
Abyss Odyssey Steam Available
Acceleration of SUGURI 2 Steam Available
Attractio Steam Available
Battle Chef Brigade Steam Available
Bear With Me - Collector's Edition Steam Available
Blackguards 2 Steam Available
Blackguards Steam Available
Bone - Episode 1 & Episode 2 Steam Available
Burnout Paradise: The Ultimate Box Origin Key Origin Available
Cities: Skylines + After Dark DLC Steam Available
Citizens of Earth Steam Available
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 - Uprising Origin Key Origin Available
Contagion Steam Available
Contagion Steam Available
Contagion Steam Available
Contagion Steam Available
Cook, Serve, Delicious! 2!! Steam Available
Crazy Machines 3 Steam Available
Crysis 2 Maximum Edition Origin Key Origin Available
Cultist Simulator Steam Available
Darkside Detective Steam Available
Darksiders II: Deathinitive Edition Steam Available
Dead Island Definitive Edition Steam Available
Dead Rising 4 Steam Available
Deadly Sin 2 Steam Available
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided Steam Available
Devil May Cry HD Collection PS3 Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1 The Shadow of New Despair Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: BM03 Vegalta Gold Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Blood Storm Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Depth Crawler Gold Coat Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gigantus DCC-Gogo. Marking Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gigantus DCC-Zero Marking Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gigantus Tank, Bullet Girls Marking Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gigantus Tank, EDF IFPS Markings Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gigantus Tank, Natsuiro HS Markings Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Gleipnir Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Ifrit Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Mission Pack 1: Time of the Mutants Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Mission Pack 2: Extreme Battle Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Pure Decoy Launcher 5 Pack A Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Pure Decoy Launcher 5 Pack B Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Reflectron Laser Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Spark Lancer Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Sting Shot Steam Available
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE 4.1: Volatile Napalm Steam Available
Euro Truck Simulator 2 Steam Available
FEZ Steam Available
Fight'N Rage Steam Available
Figment Steam Available
Forged Battalion Steam Available
GOD EATER 2 Rage Burst Steam Available
HITMAN™: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON Steam Available
Hard Reset Redux Steam Available
Hector: Badge of Carnage Steam Available
Immortal Redneck Steam Available
Insurgency Steam Available
Interplanetary: Enhanced Edition Steam Available
Jurassic Park: The Game Steam Available
Just Cause 3 XXL Edition Steam Available
Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth Steam Available
Kona Steam Available
LOST PLANET 3 PS3 Available
Lara Croft GO Steam Available
Laser League Steam Available
Late Shift Steam Available
Legionwood 2: Rise of the Eternal's Realm Steam Available
Little Nightmares Steam Available
METAL GEAR SOLID V: GROUND ZEROES Steam Available
METAL GEAR SOLID V: The Definitive Experience DLC Steam Available
Mafia III: Sign of the Times Steam Available
Medal of Honor Origin Key Origin Available
Mega Man 9 & 10 Combo Pack PS3 Available
Mega Man Legacy Collection Steam Available
Men of War: Assault Squad GOTY Steam Available
Mirror's Edge Origin Key Origin Available
Monaco: What's Yours Is Mine Steam Available
Moon Hunters Steam Available
NBA Playgrounds Steam Available
NeuroVoider Steam Available
Outlast 2 Steam Available
PAC-MAN 256 Steam Available
PAYDAY 2 - Lycanwulf and The One Below Masks Steam Available
Paradigm Steam Available
Pathologic Classic HD Steam Available
Portal Knights Steam Available
Purrfect Date - Visual Novel/Dating Simulator Steam Available
Puzzle Agent 2 Steam Available
Puzzle Agent Steam Available
Q.U.B.E. 2 Steam Available
RUINER Steam Available
Race the Sun Flippfly Flippfly Available
Race the Sun Steam Available
Regions of Ruin Steam Available
Remember Me PS3 Available
Resident Evil Revelations Steam Available
Running with Rifles Steam Available
SPINTIRES™ Steam Available
Sam & Max: Devil's Playhouse Steam Available
Sam & Max: Season 1 Steam Available
Sam & Max: Season 2 Steam Available
Scribblenauts Unlimited Steam Available
Serial Cleaner Steam Available
Seven: The Days Long Gone Steam Available
Shiness: The Lightning Kingdom Steam Available
Skyborn Steam Available
Slipstream Steam Available
Sniper Elite V2 Steam Available
Strider PS4 Available
Styx: Shards of Darkness Steam Available
Subterrain Steam Available
Sudden Strike 4 Steam Available
Sundered Steam Available
Sweet Lily Dreams Steam Available
Tales of Berseria™ Steam Available
Telltale Texas Hold'em Steam Available
Teslagrad Steam Available
The Bridge Steam Available
The Dwarves Steam Available
The Escapists 2 Steam Available
The Sims 3 Date Night Key Origin Available
The Sims 3 High End Loft Stuff Key Origin Available
The Sims 3 Key Origin Available
The Sims 3 Late Night Key Origin Available
The Surge Steam Available
To the Moon Steam Available
Warhammer 40,000: Eternal Crusade Steam Available
Warhammer: Vermintide 2 - Collector's Edition Steam Available
Wizard of Legend Steam Available
Wolf of the Battlefield: Commando 3 PS3 Available
Yooka-Laylee Steam Available
Zombie Night Terror Steam Available
2023.06.07 18:49 LoLusta I'm writing an introduction to a book as an assignment. Could you please help me with style and grammar?
[Note: This is not the complete manuscript. I'm still working on it. I wanted to get suggestions on my style during the initial stages of my work, so that I can remodel my writing]
The quest to find the purpose of life is as old as humanity itself. It can be argued that philosophy developed, though not entirely, as a response to answer that very same perennial question. Ancient heavyweights like Socrates and his disciples ventured into the complex soup of philosophical questions, often revolving around the purpose of life. I would not assert that I am in their league, but the short and unfulfilling life of contemplation that I have lived till now positions me to chip in my views.
We do not know why we live. Seemingly enough, our existence may as well be meaningless. However, whenever I propose such a statement, a plethora of philosophers belonging from few particular schools of thought start getting uneasy. And why would not they. After all, the discipline of philosophy according to them is anchored in the search for the meaning of life. How dare a nobody like me challenge their tradition. Unfortunately, the counter-arguments that they come up with are a bit narrow in scope, to put it mildly.
We often take it for granted that everyone living in this world must have some purpose. Have you ever asked yourself why such a baseless assumption is accepted by the general public without even giving it any thought? You will often hear people saying that even janitors have a purpose for existence, for without them, who would do the menial jobs? How would the civilisation progress? Yes, the civilisation could not prosper without janitors. That is completely true. But what is untrue is that you — a janitor — has a purpose. Don't get me wrong. I have nothing against janitors. We are forever obliged to them for what they bear and what they do. It is you, without the role of a janitor, who is insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
To understand what I am going to propose, It is necessary to understand the concept of existence. The next time you meet a stranger, ask them: "who are you?" The most probable answer that you would get would be: "I'm a" or "I'm ". Is your entire existence defined by what name someone gave you when you were born? Obviously not. Would it really matter if Donald Trump were named William Dickinson? No. He would still be him. He would still do what he does and would still behave the way he does. A mere name could never define who we are. So, then we must be defined by what we do, right? Well, it is complicated.
If we go back in time and interchange Bill Gates with Bryan Cranston when they were little, do you think that either of them would be doing what they are doing now? Would Bryon Cranston become an actor or would he found Microsoft, we cannot be sure. This proves that neither 'personality' (a set of talents, skills and traits) nor 'environment' (a set of external factors including opportunities, financial condition, support of family and friends, etc.) can single-handedly dictate what a person would be doing in the future. If we equate ourselves with our 'consciousness' (basically, the ability to talk to yourself), we never had any control over our environment or our personality. They were randomly allotted to us when we were born.
Now, some people have already started getting uneasy. How dare I say you cannot change your personality? Isn't it contradictory to what the trillion dollar self-help industry has been shouting all this time — that you can become whoever you want to, if you work hard enough? I have to accept that people do have some degree of control over their personality and to some extent, even over their environment. Though, how much of that change translates to actual outcome is debatable. Have you tried being a lesbian woman with disability in an impoverished family in Afghanistan wanting to become the next pop sensation? Even if you manage to acquire the requisite personality (talent, skill and mindset), what would such a change in personality entail if you could not get any tangible outcome? We love the tales of underdogs. However, we also take for granted that every underdog would go on to become the next millionaire. Life does not work that way. For every person who achieved something, there are at least a hundred who worked just as hard but could not. Our efforts does not always translate to what we become. So how can we define our existence with what we do if we don't have any significant role in becoming what we are?
The question strikes again. "Who are you?" You are not your name. You are not what you do. If you try to say something like "I'm a human", let me remind you I never asked "what are you?" When I asked "who", I already acknowledged that you're a human (though it's a whole different philosophical question debating what makes a human, human.)
submitted by LoLusta to EnglishLearning [link] [comments]
The quest to find the purpose of life is as old as humanity itself. It can be argued that philosophy developed, though not entirely, as a response to answer that very same perennial question. Ancient heavyweights like Socrates and his disciples ventured into the complex soup of philosophical questions, often revolving around the purpose of life. I would not assert that I am in their league, but the short and unfulfilling life of contemplation that I have lived till now positions me to chip in my views.
We do not know why we live. Seemingly enough, our existence may as well be meaningless. However, whenever I propose such a statement, a plethora of philosophers belonging from few particular schools of thought start getting uneasy. And why would not they. After all, the discipline of philosophy according to them is anchored in the search for the meaning of life. How dare a nobody like me challenge their tradition. Unfortunately, the counter-arguments that they come up with are a bit narrow in scope, to put it mildly.
We often take it for granted that everyone living in this world must have some purpose. Have you ever asked yourself why such a baseless assumption is accepted by the general public without even giving it any thought? You will often hear people saying that even janitors have a purpose for existence, for without them, who would do the menial jobs? How would the civilisation progress? Yes, the civilisation could not prosper without janitors. That is completely true. But what is untrue is that you — a janitor — has a purpose. Don't get me wrong. I have nothing against janitors. We are forever obliged to them for what they bear and what they do. It is you, without the role of a janitor, who is insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
To understand what I am going to propose, It is necessary to understand the concept of existence. The next time you meet a stranger, ask them: "who are you?" The most probable answer that you would get would be: "I'm a
If we go back in time and interchange Bill Gates with Bryan Cranston when they were little, do you think that either of them would be doing what they are doing now? Would Bryon Cranston become an actor or would he found Microsoft, we cannot be sure. This proves that neither 'personality' (a set of talents, skills and traits) nor 'environment' (a set of external factors including opportunities, financial condition, support of family and friends, etc.) can single-handedly dictate what a person would be doing in the future. If we equate ourselves with our 'consciousness' (basically, the ability to talk to yourself), we never had any control over our environment or our personality. They were randomly allotted to us when we were born.
Now, some people have already started getting uneasy. How dare I say you cannot change your personality? Isn't it contradictory to what the trillion dollar self-help industry has been shouting all this time — that you can become whoever you want to, if you work hard enough? I have to accept that people do have some degree of control over their personality and to some extent, even over their environment. Though, how much of that change translates to actual outcome is debatable. Have you tried being a lesbian woman with disability in an impoverished family in Afghanistan wanting to become the next pop sensation? Even if you manage to acquire the requisite personality (talent, skill and mindset), what would such a change in personality entail if you could not get any tangible outcome? We love the tales of underdogs. However, we also take for granted that every underdog would go on to become the next millionaire. Life does not work that way. For every person who achieved something, there are at least a hundred who worked just as hard but could not. Our efforts does not always translate to what we become. So how can we define our existence with what we do if we don't have any significant role in becoming what we are?
The question strikes again. "Who are you?" You are not your name. You are not what you do. If you try to say something like "I'm a human", let me remind you I never asked "what are you?" When I asked "who", I already acknowledged that you're a human (though it's a whole different philosophical question debating what makes a human, human.)
2023.06.07 18:12 ChartNew3237 The art of playing tanks(in exaggeration)
Average redditor answer for "recommend fun heroes" posts is "never pick ranks in solo" and the consequences:-
You can play fighters with tanky items but xp lane is the least impact lane in my opinion and its not as fun as tank roam.
Ik that most of players of the game aren't in this sub but our decisions can influence others too
Ex:- In one of my games my teammate picked natan and dominated enemy with help of my tank atlas. In the next game the two guys were in my team again, the one who picked atlas now picked natan and the one who picked natan locked in another mm and we lost(I was just a poor Guinevere in the background). Things would have been different if that natan picked a tank this time but he didn’t because he didn’t learnt playing tanks in lower ranks and in tanks general(I checked his profile).
Personal rant:- I feel that lolita's potential for skins is heavily underrated, she can have very beautiful skins which can increase her popularity.
TL DR:- please play tanks
Adding role queue would solve most of the problems
My rating for fun heroes(according to roles) there are a few exceptions tho:-
Assassins>=tanks>fighters>mages>mm>support(healers)
Tell me if any of it is false and share your thoughts on tanks.
Thank you and have a nice day~
submitted by ChartNew3237 to MobileLegendsGame [link] [comments]
- Recommends not to play tank in solo
- People pick 2 mm/core
- They climb to higher ranks with 45% wr
- The concept of drafting will be completely foreign to them.
- Even if they pick tanks they will play as if they are mm.
- More and more people climb to higher ranks which lead to more divisions in mythic-> rank inflation
- Decrease in popularity of tanks among new players
- Less popularity-> less attention-> less skins ->more gus/zilong skins
- Vicious cycle continues until the day the game has 20 divisions in mythic and 500+gus/zilong skins and moontoon finally notices that they fucked up real bad.
- You can probably take a single build on a mage/mm(standard build) and perform decently in most of the games but tanks have to adapt their builds according to enemy heroes/powerspikes/builds. This teaches players to make their own build and you won't see your tank building full armor when enemy has 5 magic dmg heroes.
- Tanks have unique skills and they are fun too
- I personally got hang of neutral objectives timers by playing tanks
- I learnt some good macro decisions while playing tanks.
- I learnt some good team synergies by playing tanks.
You can play fighters with tanky items but xp lane is the least impact lane in my opinion and its not as fun as tank roam.
Ik that most of players of the game aren't in this sub but our decisions can influence others too
Ex:- In one of my games my teammate picked natan and dominated enemy with help of my tank atlas. In the next game the two guys were in my team again, the one who picked atlas now picked natan and the one who picked natan locked in another mm and we lost(I was just a poor Guinevere in the background). Things would have been different if that natan picked a tank this time but he didn’t because he didn’t learnt playing tanks in lower ranks and in tanks general(I checked his profile).
Personal rant:- I feel that lolita's potential for skins is heavily underrated, she can have very beautiful skins which can increase her popularity.
TL DR:- please play tanks
Adding role queue would solve most of the problems
My rating for fun heroes(according to roles) there are a few exceptions tho:-
Assassins>=tanks>fighters>mages>mm>support(healers)
Tell me if any of it is false and share your thoughts on tanks.
Thank you and have a nice day~