Evinrude outboard motor id by serial
Cell 11 [final]
2024.05.13 20:15 Carl_Sefni Cell 11 [final]
Hey folks, hello again. I took a bit longer this time to update (Part 1 and Part 2 here) you but at least I bring good news: this weekend, I got the definitive answer from the prison's legal department, and now I know how much I can tell (and I believe it's enough). For your information, after this incident and my eventual release from prison, I haven't contacted anyone I met behind bars, except of course for my wife, Linda. The point is, even after all these years, this story has troubled me a lot, and since my first post, I've become even more paranoid. Finally, this morning, I went out to get the mail but as soon as I opened the door, I came face to face with a small untouched white envelope, except for two identical characters stamped on its surface: 11. Linda is sleeping, and I don't want to worry her, I'm at the kitchen counter thinking about what to do with this envelope while reliving the final events of all this mess, of what was really inside cell 11.
It was morning, and there I was in my cell, in a scene poetically similar to this. I held a playing card, an 11 of clubs. I later searched for such a card online, but found nothing. It was strange, very well made. Before I could reflect more deeply on this, one of the guards passed by our corridor, opening the cell doors for our breakfast.
So, slowly, as if in a trance, I got up from bed and put the playing card in my pocket. Somehow, the card seemed to heat up in my pocket, I could feel the heat increasing and increasing, almost burning my skin. It was a strange stupor, almost drunken, I could even swear I smelled ether lingering in the air as I staggered to the cafeteria.
I slumped into the seat as I placed the tray on the table. Old Munford looked at me in a friendly manner:
"Overdid it yesterday, lad? Your hangover face is priceless."
I forced a weak smile in response to Munford's comment, trying to seem normal despite the whirlwind of thoughts racing through my mind. The heat still burned in my pocket, an uncomfortable sensation that seemed to be intensifying with each passing moment.
"No, nothing much," I muttered, looking away to my food tray. "Just didn't sleep very well."
Munford seemed satisfied with my response and turned his attention back to his own meal. As I stirred the food without really eating, struggling to maintain my composure, I began to think about what to do.
My thoughts were interrupted when Francis joined us at the table, his usual smile lighting up his face. He looked at me with a questioning expression.
"Hey man, everything okay? You look awful."
"I think it was the heat, or maybe something I ate last night."
Francis frowned. Unlike the elder, he clearly wasn't convinced by my superficial explanation.
"Some of the guys told me they saw Bob talking to you last night. Did he do something?"
The question caught me off guard. All this news about the playing card had prevented me from thinking about the strange interaction with Bob since the previous night, but now the memories began to resurface, mixed with the heat sensation coming from my pocket.
"Oh, it was nothing," I said quickly, trying to sound casual. "Bob was just being a bit... Bob."
I felt Francis's gaze linger on my face for a moment.
"If he does anything, you know you can talk to us, right? I know he's one of ours, but that doesn't mean I'll go easy on him."
I analyzed the options for a moment, reflecting on everything. Well, now it seemed to make sense, a prank by Bob, or an attempt to intimidate me...
"There's... something, Francis," I said in a low tone, feeling tense about the confession I was about to make. "Last night, after the card tournament, I... I ran into Bob in the hallway. He was questioning me about the tournament, accusing me of cheating."
Francis's face hardened at my words, a displeased expression passing over his features.
"Cheating? And you?"
"I swear I played fair," I replied quickly, the pressure building inside me. "But he was convinced I had some advantage, and... well, things got a bit tense... He walked away, and this morning I found this in my cell."
Deciding to omit the encounter with Tulley, I got straight to the point, pulling the card out of my pocket and placing it on the table. I could feel it almost incandescent now.
Munford looked at the card for a moment, his gaze narrowing as he studied it. The heat emanating from it was almost palpable, a strange aura that seemed to envelop the table.
"Is that... an 11 of clubs?" he murmured, his voice tinged with surprise and suspicion.
I nodded, my own confusion mingling with growing anxiety.
"Yes... I don't know, maybe Bob did this to scare me, to show that he has access to my cell, or to try to provoke me, knowing my fear of cell 11..."
My words were cut off when the guard's voice echoed through the cafeteria, interrupting our conversation as he announced that the meal period was over.
Francis looked at me with a serious expression.
"We'll talk about this later," he pointed to the card. "Mind if I take it with me?"
I nodded.
"No problem, feel free."
We began our march back to the cells, and I couldn't help but exchange glances with old Munford. He seemed to hesitate on the matter, as if he wanted to say something but was afraid. I made a mental note to speak with him as soon as possible. Our yard time would be in the next 4 hours, and I spent half of that time trying to ponder what had happened.
I don't know how long it took, but I fell asleep, sitting, with my back pressed against the wall of my cell. The dream, or rather, nightmare resulting from this was a disturbing experience.
I found myself standing, walking through the prison corridors in a way that seemed endless. The walls seemed to close in around me, creating a claustrophobic labyrinth that I couldn't escape. Every door I tried to open was locked, and the sound of footsteps echoed behind me, as if someone were following my every step.
Finally, I reached a door that was ajar, a dim light emanating from within. With a knot in my stomach, I pushed it slowly, revealing what seemed to be cell 11. But something was terribly wrong. A man was there, his back to me. Disheveled, uneven hair, a hunched posture, he was crouched down, rummaging through something I couldn't see, seemed to regurgitate. Suddenly, he stopped. He slowly got up and then looked at me.
Somehow, I knew that man was that prisoner, the one who had committed those atrocities and painted the eye on the damn cell. I noticed something dripping from his mouth, forming a red puddle in the center. On the wall, what seemed to be an incomplete sketch of the dreaded painting was there.
I watched, hypnotized by the horror before me, as the man slowly raised his trembling hand towards his face. Drops of that dark liquid dripped from his fingers, echoing in the oppressive silence of the cell. It was as if the very air was tainted with that impurity.
Before I could fully process what was happening, he began to move towards me, his irregular steps echoing like the distant clinking of chains. A visceral panic seized me, preventing me from retreating as he came closer and closer, his distorted figure gaining sharper contours as he advanced through the gloom. I could now smell the terrible scent he had, not just as something rotten, but a pure and concrete smell of death.
"Who... who are you?" My own voice sounded weak and trembling.
The man didn't answer. Instead, he kept advancing, his empty eyes seeming to pierce my soul. My heart was now pounding uncontrollably in my chest, a deafening cacophony that seemed to fill the entire space of the cell. I was about to retreat, to beg for mercy, when a voice whispered in my mind, a distorted echo reverberating like the sigh of a ghost:
"You... can you see? The watchful eye. He wants you. He liked looking at you."
The sound of my own breath echoed in the silence that followed, a dissonant note of fear and desperation. I wanted to scream, to run, to escape this living nightmare, but I was paralyzed by the terror that enveloped me like a coffin.
It was then that I woke up, gasping and covered in sweat, the echo of the whisper still resonating in my mind like a distant echo of a nightmare. For a moment, everything around me seemed distorted and unreal, a fleeting mirage, and then, I startled again. Munford was standing in front of my cell, staring at me with curiosity.
"Are you okay, son?" the old man asked in a soft voice, as if trying to calm a frightened animal.
I shook my head slowly, trying to gather my thoughts amidst the whirlwind of information.
"I... I think so," I murmured, my voice sounding strange and distant even to myself. "I had a horrible nightmare... It felt so real."
Munford nodded understandingly, his eyes fixed on mine.
"Yeah, the situation isn't good... but I came to talk about that letter, earlier in the cafeteria."
"Oh yeah, what about it?"
"Let's just say I've never seen a card like that, but the energy coming from it, oh yeah, I've seen that before."
"What do you mean?"
"You know, a few years ago, there was a murder in one of the cells. This was before Francis arrived, we didn't have much organization, lynchings were common, and in an attempt to reduce these incidents, we decided that the main suspect, a newly captured serial killer, would be forcibly transferred to cell 11. It was one of the most terrible incidents I've ever witnessed in here. And do you know how that man was known?"
I shook my head negatively. Munford leaned his hands on two bars, bringing his face closer to the center of them.
"The Card Cutter."
A wave of shivers ran down my spine.
"He used to leave playing cards as a kind of signature on the bodies of his victims. They say he would choose the card based on the person or the method of murder. So, when he was put in cell 11, things got even weirder."
"What happened to him?" I asked, a bittersweet and macabre curiosity in my mouth.
Munford sighed heavily, looking at a fixed point this time.
"A few weeks after being transferred, he was found dead in his cell. Hung with sheets. And next to his body..."
"What was it?" I could barely breathe as I listened.
"A playing card. An ace of spades, if I'm not mistaken. And that cell... well, since then, no one wants to stay there. They say it does something to people, kills them."
The shock of Munford's revelation reverberated in my chest, trembling as I thought about what could happen to Guard Tulley from now on, or worse, what could happen to us.
"So you think this card is... a warning?" I asked, my voice barely more than a whisper, staring into the old man's green eyes.
Munford nodded slowly, responding more to himself than to me.
"I can't say for sure, but it's a possibility to consider."
I swallowed hard.
"What should we do then?"
He fell silent for a moment, as if pondering his words carefully.
"I have no idea. I guess all we can do is keep quiet; we don't want to scare the other inmates. Francis doesn't believe in these things, so I won't waste my time trying to convince him, and I advise you to do the same. Maybe if we just keep pretending that nothing is happening, things will sort themselves out. But remember: whatever this force is, it wants to take you to the cell, wants you to face the eye. Resist those urges, okay?"
The clock struck 12:30. Time for yard time. I walked with Munford to the yard, the sun burning our heads as we stepped outside, futilely trying to erase the worry from our minds.
As I watched the other inmates spreading out across the yard, trying to appear normal, I felt a hand on my shoulder. I turned to find Bob, his voice low and threatening.
"What did you tell Francis?" he whispered, he was behind me, and I couldn't see him.
The flesh on my back trembled and twisted, the fluid of fear rising up to my brain.
"I don't know what you're talking about, Bob," I replied firmly, trying to sound confident.
He paused for a few seconds.
"You cheat first, and now, you make up lies about what I did or didn't do."
"I think there's a misunderstanding-"
"Shut up!" his voice rose sharply "I'm just here to say that I'm not a kid, I don't go around sending playing card letters or anything like that. I didn't threaten you with that thing, but now I am, and in a very direct way, and if I were you, I'd sleep with one eye open."
He was dead serious, and the threat was as clear as day. But what could I do? Confront Bob directly like Francis? That could mean he wasn't trustworthy... My thoughts were interrupted by the guard watching us.
"You two, no contact!" he shouted.
"No problem here, officer," Bob said, pulling me into a hug that felt more like an attempted chokehold.
I tried to pull away unsuccessfully, and the officer seemed to simply not care.
"Okay, but we'll be watching," he turned away, and Bob shoved me against the yard bars.
"Listen here, Bob," I began, my voice firm, confused about where this courage had even come from. "I don't know what you're up to, but I won't stand still while you try to intimidate me. If you have something to say, then say it like a man. Otherwise, leave me alone." I pushed him away with my hand.
"You're a fool, you know that?" he muttered.
"I'm not looking for trouble, but if you want it, you'll get it. Let's just leave it be, okay? If anything happens to me, I'll make sure some people know and-"
My assailant's hand closed around my neck, tightening. I squirmed, struggling to breathe as I desperately tried to free myself from his grip.
"Going to call daddy? Look, Francis may have that whole attitude, but he won't do anything to me, or any of the guys," he remarked.
I noticed the usual group of big guys who hung around with Francis, they were watching us from afar, seeming to distract the boss.
"He's getting out in two months...but honestly, I don't think I need to wait that long."
I couldn't breathe. Fighting against the grip on my neck, my eyes desperately searched for any help.
"Let him go!" The guard shouted from afar, starting to make his way down the stairs to reach us.
Bob didn't obey. I felt my body losing strength, so I did what I could: I focused my strength into a clenched fist and punched the bastard in the stomach, aiming right at his gut. And judging by his expression, it worked. I saw him lean over, his hands releasing my body and being placed on his belly.
I knew if I let it slide, he would come back and continue to harass me, so that had to be a definitive response to the jerk that I wasn't an easy prey. I lunged at him again, this time with a well-aimed kick to his knee, trying to destabilize him. He staggered backwards with a groan of pain, falling to his knees on the yard ground.
The other prisoners now realized what had happened, and soon their shouts in a circle were audible.
"Go, get him! Don't hold back! Finish this guy off!"
I lunged at Bob, raising my hand time after time to punch him. He didn't take it lightly, grabbing my right hand as I prepared to hit him; I could feel the pressure applied to the joints, my fingers starting to crack, and I could feel them tense, about to break. In desperation, I threw myself onto him with the only weapon I had left: my teeth.
I felt the flesh of his neck between the rows of teeth in my mouth. Without thinking and trying to loosen the grip on my hand, I pressed on the pearly bones harder and harder, feeling them slide against the skin, the metallic taste slowly emerging as the flesh was torn.
The scene around me seemed blurry, as if I were watching everything happen from afar, in slow motion. Bob's scream echoed through the yard, mixing with the encouragement shouts from the other inmates. I felt a mix of adrenaline and horror as my teeth sank into his neck flesh, a strange feeling of power and disgust.
While still hunched over that bloody man, I felt the blows on my back: it was the guards. Their batons striking time after time as the adrenaline rush passed, and I now began to feel the pain. Without resistance, I let myself be pulled away. Bob wasted no time and moved away, stumbling as he covered the wound.
"YOU SCUMBAG, WHAT KIND OF ANIMAL ARE YOU?"
As I was being taken away, everything around me seemed blurred, as if I were in a state of stupor. The voices of the other inmates echoed in my ears, mixed with images of the fight that had just occurred. I still felt the blood running through my mouth, dripping lightly onto the ground and forming a trail of red dots marking my path. However, before we left the yard, our warden arrived at the scene, and the guards stopped, my arm uncomfortably twisted behind my body.
"What's going on here?" His voice was calm, but there was an unquestionable tone of authority in his words.
"He... he bit a detainee, sir," one of the guards explained, firmly holding my arm.
The warden looked at me, his eyebrows furrowed in disapproval.
"Why did you do that?"
My mind was spinning, trying to find a coherent explanation for what had happened. I knew it would be useless to tell about Bob's threat, about the playing card, about the fear he had instilled in me. So, I found the most plausible words I could gather:
"He... he provoked me, sir," I murmured, my voice trembling. "I... couldn't take it anymore. He was intimidating me, threatening me, and I... I lost control."
The warden looked at me for a long moment, as if assessing my words. Finally, he sighed, seeming resigned, approaching me with slow, steady steps.
"No, you did that because you're an animal."
He gave me two pats on the cheek, then wiped the blood running from my mouth.
"Take this one to solitary."
The prisoners began to shout, a real noisy commotion. I trembled at the thought of being locked up there. No one came back the same from solitary, but at that moment, I really think I'd prefer to go there than what was to come.
"But sir," one of the guards said, causing the inmates to fall silent in an attempt to hear something, "The solitary is occupied..."
The warden frowned, clearly irritated by the interruption.
"Then take him to cell 11," he ordered, his voice cold and authoritative.
That was the final blow, causing the uproar to become widespread, with even some inmates needing to be subdued with tear gas. I could see as I was pushed, Munford looking at me, a worried and distressed expression on his face; he said something I couldn't understand amidst the noise.
With my heart pounding erratically in my chest and my mind clouded with fear and uncertainty, I was led by the guards towards cell 11. Each step felt like it weighed tons, as if I were walking towards the abyss. I could feel the stares of the other inmates watching the scene, some with expressions of shock, others with a mixture of curiosity and indifference.
Finally, we arrived, and by this point, I was sweating uncontrollably; they opened the cell and threw me inside. My eyes instinctively closed as I fell to the ground. I didn't want to look at it. I got up, still blinding my vision, slowly groping around until I found the bed. I lay on it and turned to the wall beside it, my face as close as possible.
Lying on the hard bed, I could feel my heart beating so loudly that it seemed to echo off the concrete walls around me. Each beat was a pulsating reminder of my situation. I tried to push away the thoughts, but it was like trying to hold back a raging river with bare hands. All the while, I heard stories, heard things about that place, and now I was there, cornered by circumstances beyond my control.
Gradually, I noticed the thick layer of sweat forming around me. I could even feel my pores opening, pouring the water from my body in an attempt to cool myself in that stuffy, hot environment. I couldn't help but think about the heat of the card and... about Francis. He still had the card. Wasn't that dangerous? I fixated on musings about it.
In my feverish frenzy, time seemed to stretch infinitely in that dark cell, minutes dragging on like hours as I struggled to maintain my sanity. Every sound, every shadow was a source of growing anxiety until somehow, I fell into a deep sleep, dreamless this time.
I woke up in the middle of the night, with a faint noise coming from behind the heavy steel door. At first, I feared, wondering what it could be, but as soon as I regained my senses, I remembered where I was, and frankly, nothing outside could be worse. I cautiously approached the source of the sound, trying to listen better, when a "Hey, kid, it's me!" sounded whispered.
"Munford! Munford, I'm glad you're here, knew you wouldn't abandon me."
"Ha, I know, I know," he sounded nervous, perhaps hiding from the guards. "Look, I'd help you out, but I can't get it open from this side, try it there." A small plastic rectangle slid through the door gap. A credit card... I remembered I had done this many times before.
I grabbed the card and started working, carefully sliding it into the lock. Each movement was made with the precision I gained from years of street experience, trying not to make any noise that could attract the guards' attention. My mind was racing, and the tremor it transmitted to my fingers made motor coordination difficult.
Finally, after several minutes of trial and error, I heard a soft click, and the door opened slowly. I could smell the fresh air from the corridor and was already about to smile when, along with the bright light of a flashlight, I saw Bob, now with his neck and shoulder bandaged, along with three more of his cronies. Munford was being held by one, who held an improvised knife to his neck.
"Sorry, kid, they forced me," the old man lamented.
"Not so fast, princess." Bob pushed me inside, onto the floor, and then he entered with one of his cronies, closing the door behind him and illuminating me with the halo of his flashlight.
"What's up, Bob, can't you leave me alone?"
"You wanted to settle things, didn't you? Well..." he pointed to his wound. "You just signed your death warrant! But first, I'm going to make sure to pull out all your teeth and make you swallow them."
He lifted me by the collar of my shirt and landed a punch with his heavy hand. I felt dizzy, seeing stars, curling up into a fetal position. His laughter was now a terrifying melody to me.
"Look at this crybaby. Where did your bravery go?" He kicked my stomach, and I'm sure he found it an ironic poetic justice.
His cohort laughed until the beam of his flashlight shifted away from me.
"Hey Bob, what's that over there?" He said, simultaneously pointing with his finger and the flashlight.
Even though it was on the wall behind me, I knew what it was. I saw Bob straighten up to face it, becoming petrified. He and the other, standing there, mouths agape. I waited for seconds, counting mentally and holding my breath, expecting anything, but nothing. Until suddenly, I began to see small puddles forming under their lower eyelids, dark marks... of blood.
The red tears started to stream down their faces like large crimson waterfalls. Soon, they began to make a noise... a familiar noise, which made my mind freeze as I felt my toes curling inside my shoes and my mouth trembling uncontrollably. It was the same sound as Tulley's. They were now allowing these moans to escape their throats and resonate in the tight concrete walls.
I had to do something. I began slowly to pass by them, trying to edge around. When, however, I was almost reaching the door, I could see their shadows turning slowly in my direction. The tension in the air was palpable, as if it could be cut with a knife. I held myself back from trembling as I tried to maintain composure in front of those men, whose bloodshot eyes were now fixed on me, full of terror and despair.
"What... what's happening?" My voice came out in a trembling whisper, barely able to make myself heard.
Bob and his cohort remained silent. They began to walk towards me, and in desperation, I opened the cell door and slammed it loudly behind me, not caring about attracting the guards' attention. As I looked around, I actually noticed that this was a concern I didn't need to have.
The environment where I was wasn't what I expected, from the prison corridor. It was actually another cell. I stopped for a moment, confused, only to be surprised by a figure in the center of it. A man in a straitjacket looking at me with a petrified smile.
"I've been waiting for you," he said. His voice was blood-curdling, sounding like someone scratching a chalkboard with their nails or scraping a fork on a glass plate.
I tried to open the door but it was stuck. When I turned around again, he was leaning, his face inches from mine, eyes bloodshot. I almost fell backward. He laughed. It was like the last time, he had his mouth covered by a sticky red mass that dripped, probably serving as material for the painting, which now displayed an almost complete surreal eye. He turned and walked to the painting, and then he regurgitated it again. Since his hands were tied, he used his tongue as a brush, finishing the last line of the drawing.
"This," he whispered. "Is my masterpiece."
I was trembling. I had forgotten Munford's advice, and now I found myself petrified, just like the others, staring at the eye. I don't know how much time passed, but I felt like it was hours, days... years. All in the blink of an eye, or rather, in a stare without a single blink.
I tried in vain to regain my composure. Scenes of horror penetrated my mind. Cadavers, bodies marked by playing cards. Criminals, inmates being violently beaten with batons, pepper spray, and all sorts of luxuries the police can serve, I saw gang fights, blood, death, and abuse. I saw people being killed inside the prison. Each scene of violence that each of those who looked had already witnessed. My legs were no more than reeds in the wind now, and I just wanted to run away and scream, cry, and sleep to never wake up again. I tried to scream but the man came to me, placing his foot over my mouth.
"Shhh... you need to see."
He repeated this indefinitely. "need to see, need to see, need to see, need to see"
With superhuman effort, I managed to free myself from the weight of his foot on my mouth, but I could barely articulate coherent words. My voice came out trembling and weak when I finally managed to speak:
"What do you want from me? Why are you doing this?"
He simply continued smiling, as if my words were just another piece in his sadistic game. Then, with a quick and fluid movement, he approached me, so close that I could feel his fetid breath and the metallic smell of blood dripping from his mouth.
"Your mind is a fascinating playground," he murmured, his voice echoing in the claustrophobic space of the cell.
I felt tears running down my cheek, and I knew what color they were. I stood there, in shock, staring at the large painted eye, while my entire being was eaten alive in fear and dread. I don't know how much time passed, maybe the entire age of the universe, eternity, who knows. I woke up on the infirmary bed. Wires connected to my arm while a machine reproduced the "beeps" of my heart.
I looked to the side, seeing the green eyes of nurse Linda looking at me, concerned.
"Are you okay?"
"You need to see," I said, not even wanting to.
She frowned, evidently confused by my response. Linda seemed hesitant, as if she were trying to decide whether to ask more or simply ignore my strange statement. I could see the concern in her eyes, but also a certain curiosity, as if something inside her was intrigued by what I had to say.
"What do you mean by that?" She finally asked, her soft voice echoing in the silence of the infirmary.
I sat up slowly on the bed, feeling a wave of dizziness pass over me. My mind was still cloudy, as if I were struggling to emerge from a deep nightmare. I tried to articulate my words as coherently as possible.
"I... I saw things," I murmured, my voice still trembling. "Terrible things. In the cell... in there... something... something is wrong."
Linda watched me with a serious expression, her green eyes analyzing me carefully. She seemed to understand that something serious had happened, but couldn't fully comprehend what I was trying to communicate.
"Look... you and the others had a collective hallucination in that cell... The director has already arranged for an investigation, but we suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, we've already talked to him about the lack of windows in that place, but it seems he doesn't listen."
I stopped, confused by that information. Was I hallucinating? Well, maybe I would even think that if it weren't for what followed. A man in a dark suit entered. He had a serious and intimidating expression, and he asked Linda to leave.
"Listen here, young man, you're lucky to have come back. The others are catatonic... and probably won't come back to themselves. That's why your cooperation is extremely important, and we need to know: what did you see?"
I stumbled, recounting as much information as I could remember, from Tulley to Bob. The man listened to me without making any expression. After that, he took a radio that was hanging from his blazer and said some words that I didn't quite understand, something like "Ceter," "Queter"... and then he took a clipboard, handing it to me.
"This is your letter of freedom. Our proposal is as follows: We release you from prison and in exchange, you don't open your mouth about the specific events mentioned here," he pointed to the clauses.
That was five years ago, and given my freedom, you must imagine that not everything that happened is transcribed here, but the most important parts are. I ended up visiting Munford a few times after that, and I was horrified to discover that Francis, on the eve of his release, hanged himself with the bedsheet. The old man and I stared at each other after this discovery, in a mutual silent understanding. Shortly after, they closed not only the cell, but our entire pavilion, relocating the inmates. I never saw Munford or any of the others again after that. My nightmares persisted, but in recent months they have been much less frequent, and I think I might be slowly healing.
I wanted to say that this story ends well, with my rehabilitation. A troublesome prisoner full of stories becoming a family man. And it would be, if it weren't for the last 15 minutes of this morning. I believe you may remember that I received a letter this morning like that cursed number. I left it on the counter in the living room while I came here, to have breakfast and finish reporting this to you. When I finished the last paragraph, I went back to the room, but now, it seems like the whole nightmare is back.
I felt the tears, transparent this time, forming in my eyes. In the center of the room right now is Linda, holding the letter, looking at something in it that I can already imagine. She's standing there, wet and red stains on her face, I can hear her whispering "You need to see... need to see," and by God... I can see...
submitted by Carl_Sefni to nosleep [link] [comments]
It was morning, and there I was in my cell, in a scene poetically similar to this. I held a playing card, an 11 of clubs. I later searched for such a card online, but found nothing. It was strange, very well made. Before I could reflect more deeply on this, one of the guards passed by our corridor, opening the cell doors for our breakfast.
So, slowly, as if in a trance, I got up from bed and put the playing card in my pocket. Somehow, the card seemed to heat up in my pocket, I could feel the heat increasing and increasing, almost burning my skin. It was a strange stupor, almost drunken, I could even swear I smelled ether lingering in the air as I staggered to the cafeteria.
I slumped into the seat as I placed the tray on the table. Old Munford looked at me in a friendly manner:
"Overdid it yesterday, lad? Your hangover face is priceless."
I forced a weak smile in response to Munford's comment, trying to seem normal despite the whirlwind of thoughts racing through my mind. The heat still burned in my pocket, an uncomfortable sensation that seemed to be intensifying with each passing moment.
"No, nothing much," I muttered, looking away to my food tray. "Just didn't sleep very well."
Munford seemed satisfied with my response and turned his attention back to his own meal. As I stirred the food without really eating, struggling to maintain my composure, I began to think about what to do.
My thoughts were interrupted when Francis joined us at the table, his usual smile lighting up his face. He looked at me with a questioning expression.
"Hey man, everything okay? You look awful."
"I think it was the heat, or maybe something I ate last night."
Francis frowned. Unlike the elder, he clearly wasn't convinced by my superficial explanation.
"Some of the guys told me they saw Bob talking to you last night. Did he do something?"
The question caught me off guard. All this news about the playing card had prevented me from thinking about the strange interaction with Bob since the previous night, but now the memories began to resurface, mixed with the heat sensation coming from my pocket.
"Oh, it was nothing," I said quickly, trying to sound casual. "Bob was just being a bit... Bob."
I felt Francis's gaze linger on my face for a moment.
"If he does anything, you know you can talk to us, right? I know he's one of ours, but that doesn't mean I'll go easy on him."
I analyzed the options for a moment, reflecting on everything. Well, now it seemed to make sense, a prank by Bob, or an attempt to intimidate me...
"There's... something, Francis," I said in a low tone, feeling tense about the confession I was about to make. "Last night, after the card tournament, I... I ran into Bob in the hallway. He was questioning me about the tournament, accusing me of cheating."
Francis's face hardened at my words, a displeased expression passing over his features.
"Cheating? And you?"
"I swear I played fair," I replied quickly, the pressure building inside me. "But he was convinced I had some advantage, and... well, things got a bit tense... He walked away, and this morning I found this in my cell."
Deciding to omit the encounter with Tulley, I got straight to the point, pulling the card out of my pocket and placing it on the table. I could feel it almost incandescent now.
Munford looked at the card for a moment, his gaze narrowing as he studied it. The heat emanating from it was almost palpable, a strange aura that seemed to envelop the table.
"Is that... an 11 of clubs?" he murmured, his voice tinged with surprise and suspicion.
I nodded, my own confusion mingling with growing anxiety.
"Yes... I don't know, maybe Bob did this to scare me, to show that he has access to my cell, or to try to provoke me, knowing my fear of cell 11..."
My words were cut off when the guard's voice echoed through the cafeteria, interrupting our conversation as he announced that the meal period was over.
Francis looked at me with a serious expression.
"We'll talk about this later," he pointed to the card. "Mind if I take it with me?"
I nodded.
"No problem, feel free."
We began our march back to the cells, and I couldn't help but exchange glances with old Munford. He seemed to hesitate on the matter, as if he wanted to say something but was afraid. I made a mental note to speak with him as soon as possible. Our yard time would be in the next 4 hours, and I spent half of that time trying to ponder what had happened.
I don't know how long it took, but I fell asleep, sitting, with my back pressed against the wall of my cell. The dream, or rather, nightmare resulting from this was a disturbing experience.
I found myself standing, walking through the prison corridors in a way that seemed endless. The walls seemed to close in around me, creating a claustrophobic labyrinth that I couldn't escape. Every door I tried to open was locked, and the sound of footsteps echoed behind me, as if someone were following my every step.
Finally, I reached a door that was ajar, a dim light emanating from within. With a knot in my stomach, I pushed it slowly, revealing what seemed to be cell 11. But something was terribly wrong. A man was there, his back to me. Disheveled, uneven hair, a hunched posture, he was crouched down, rummaging through something I couldn't see, seemed to regurgitate. Suddenly, he stopped. He slowly got up and then looked at me.
Somehow, I knew that man was that prisoner, the one who had committed those atrocities and painted the eye on the damn cell. I noticed something dripping from his mouth, forming a red puddle in the center. On the wall, what seemed to be an incomplete sketch of the dreaded painting was there.
I watched, hypnotized by the horror before me, as the man slowly raised his trembling hand towards his face. Drops of that dark liquid dripped from his fingers, echoing in the oppressive silence of the cell. It was as if the very air was tainted with that impurity.
Before I could fully process what was happening, he began to move towards me, his irregular steps echoing like the distant clinking of chains. A visceral panic seized me, preventing me from retreating as he came closer and closer, his distorted figure gaining sharper contours as he advanced through the gloom. I could now smell the terrible scent he had, not just as something rotten, but a pure and concrete smell of death.
"Who... who are you?" My own voice sounded weak and trembling.
The man didn't answer. Instead, he kept advancing, his empty eyes seeming to pierce my soul. My heart was now pounding uncontrollably in my chest, a deafening cacophony that seemed to fill the entire space of the cell. I was about to retreat, to beg for mercy, when a voice whispered in my mind, a distorted echo reverberating like the sigh of a ghost:
"You... can you see? The watchful eye. He wants you. He liked looking at you."
The sound of my own breath echoed in the silence that followed, a dissonant note of fear and desperation. I wanted to scream, to run, to escape this living nightmare, but I was paralyzed by the terror that enveloped me like a coffin.
It was then that I woke up, gasping and covered in sweat, the echo of the whisper still resonating in my mind like a distant echo of a nightmare. For a moment, everything around me seemed distorted and unreal, a fleeting mirage, and then, I startled again. Munford was standing in front of my cell, staring at me with curiosity.
"Are you okay, son?" the old man asked in a soft voice, as if trying to calm a frightened animal.
I shook my head slowly, trying to gather my thoughts amidst the whirlwind of information.
"I... I think so," I murmured, my voice sounding strange and distant even to myself. "I had a horrible nightmare... It felt so real."
Munford nodded understandingly, his eyes fixed on mine.
"Yeah, the situation isn't good... but I came to talk about that letter, earlier in the cafeteria."
"Oh yeah, what about it?"
"Let's just say I've never seen a card like that, but the energy coming from it, oh yeah, I've seen that before."
"What do you mean?"
"You know, a few years ago, there was a murder in one of the cells. This was before Francis arrived, we didn't have much organization, lynchings were common, and in an attempt to reduce these incidents, we decided that the main suspect, a newly captured serial killer, would be forcibly transferred to cell 11. It was one of the most terrible incidents I've ever witnessed in here. And do you know how that man was known?"
I shook my head negatively. Munford leaned his hands on two bars, bringing his face closer to the center of them.
"The Card Cutter."
A wave of shivers ran down my spine.
"He used to leave playing cards as a kind of signature on the bodies of his victims. They say he would choose the card based on the person or the method of murder. So, when he was put in cell 11, things got even weirder."
"What happened to him?" I asked, a bittersweet and macabre curiosity in my mouth.
Munford sighed heavily, looking at a fixed point this time.
"A few weeks after being transferred, he was found dead in his cell. Hung with sheets. And next to his body..."
"What was it?" I could barely breathe as I listened.
"A playing card. An ace of spades, if I'm not mistaken. And that cell... well, since then, no one wants to stay there. They say it does something to people, kills them."
The shock of Munford's revelation reverberated in my chest, trembling as I thought about what could happen to Guard Tulley from now on, or worse, what could happen to us.
"So you think this card is... a warning?" I asked, my voice barely more than a whisper, staring into the old man's green eyes.
Munford nodded slowly, responding more to himself than to me.
"I can't say for sure, but it's a possibility to consider."
I swallowed hard.
"What should we do then?"
He fell silent for a moment, as if pondering his words carefully.
"I have no idea. I guess all we can do is keep quiet; we don't want to scare the other inmates. Francis doesn't believe in these things, so I won't waste my time trying to convince him, and I advise you to do the same. Maybe if we just keep pretending that nothing is happening, things will sort themselves out. But remember: whatever this force is, it wants to take you to the cell, wants you to face the eye. Resist those urges, okay?"
The clock struck 12:30. Time for yard time. I walked with Munford to the yard, the sun burning our heads as we stepped outside, futilely trying to erase the worry from our minds.
As I watched the other inmates spreading out across the yard, trying to appear normal, I felt a hand on my shoulder. I turned to find Bob, his voice low and threatening.
"What did you tell Francis?" he whispered, he was behind me, and I couldn't see him.
The flesh on my back trembled and twisted, the fluid of fear rising up to my brain.
"I don't know what you're talking about, Bob," I replied firmly, trying to sound confident.
He paused for a few seconds.
"You cheat first, and now, you make up lies about what I did or didn't do."
"I think there's a misunderstanding-"
"Shut up!" his voice rose sharply "I'm just here to say that I'm not a kid, I don't go around sending playing card letters or anything like that. I didn't threaten you with that thing, but now I am, and in a very direct way, and if I were you, I'd sleep with one eye open."
He was dead serious, and the threat was as clear as day. But what could I do? Confront Bob directly like Francis? That could mean he wasn't trustworthy... My thoughts were interrupted by the guard watching us.
"You two, no contact!" he shouted.
"No problem here, officer," Bob said, pulling me into a hug that felt more like an attempted chokehold.
I tried to pull away unsuccessfully, and the officer seemed to simply not care.
"Okay, but we'll be watching," he turned away, and Bob shoved me against the yard bars.
"Listen here, Bob," I began, my voice firm, confused about where this courage had even come from. "I don't know what you're up to, but I won't stand still while you try to intimidate me. If you have something to say, then say it like a man. Otherwise, leave me alone." I pushed him away with my hand.
"You're a fool, you know that?" he muttered.
"I'm not looking for trouble, but if you want it, you'll get it. Let's just leave it be, okay? If anything happens to me, I'll make sure some people know and-"
My assailant's hand closed around my neck, tightening. I squirmed, struggling to breathe as I desperately tried to free myself from his grip.
"Going to call daddy? Look, Francis may have that whole attitude, but he won't do anything to me, or any of the guys," he remarked.
I noticed the usual group of big guys who hung around with Francis, they were watching us from afar, seeming to distract the boss.
"He's getting out in two months...but honestly, I don't think I need to wait that long."
I couldn't breathe. Fighting against the grip on my neck, my eyes desperately searched for any help.
"Let him go!" The guard shouted from afar, starting to make his way down the stairs to reach us.
Bob didn't obey. I felt my body losing strength, so I did what I could: I focused my strength into a clenched fist and punched the bastard in the stomach, aiming right at his gut. And judging by his expression, it worked. I saw him lean over, his hands releasing my body and being placed on his belly.
I knew if I let it slide, he would come back and continue to harass me, so that had to be a definitive response to the jerk that I wasn't an easy prey. I lunged at him again, this time with a well-aimed kick to his knee, trying to destabilize him. He staggered backwards with a groan of pain, falling to his knees on the yard ground.
The other prisoners now realized what had happened, and soon their shouts in a circle were audible.
"Go, get him! Don't hold back! Finish this guy off!"
I lunged at Bob, raising my hand time after time to punch him. He didn't take it lightly, grabbing my right hand as I prepared to hit him; I could feel the pressure applied to the joints, my fingers starting to crack, and I could feel them tense, about to break. In desperation, I threw myself onto him with the only weapon I had left: my teeth.
I felt the flesh of his neck between the rows of teeth in my mouth. Without thinking and trying to loosen the grip on my hand, I pressed on the pearly bones harder and harder, feeling them slide against the skin, the metallic taste slowly emerging as the flesh was torn.
The scene around me seemed blurry, as if I were watching everything happen from afar, in slow motion. Bob's scream echoed through the yard, mixing with the encouragement shouts from the other inmates. I felt a mix of adrenaline and horror as my teeth sank into his neck flesh, a strange feeling of power and disgust.
While still hunched over that bloody man, I felt the blows on my back: it was the guards. Their batons striking time after time as the adrenaline rush passed, and I now began to feel the pain. Without resistance, I let myself be pulled away. Bob wasted no time and moved away, stumbling as he covered the wound.
"YOU SCUMBAG, WHAT KIND OF ANIMAL ARE YOU?"
As I was being taken away, everything around me seemed blurred, as if I were in a state of stupor. The voices of the other inmates echoed in my ears, mixed with images of the fight that had just occurred. I still felt the blood running through my mouth, dripping lightly onto the ground and forming a trail of red dots marking my path. However, before we left the yard, our warden arrived at the scene, and the guards stopped, my arm uncomfortably twisted behind my body.
"What's going on here?" His voice was calm, but there was an unquestionable tone of authority in his words.
"He... he bit a detainee, sir," one of the guards explained, firmly holding my arm.
The warden looked at me, his eyebrows furrowed in disapproval.
"Why did you do that?"
My mind was spinning, trying to find a coherent explanation for what had happened. I knew it would be useless to tell about Bob's threat, about the playing card, about the fear he had instilled in me. So, I found the most plausible words I could gather:
"He... he provoked me, sir," I murmured, my voice trembling. "I... couldn't take it anymore. He was intimidating me, threatening me, and I... I lost control."
The warden looked at me for a long moment, as if assessing my words. Finally, he sighed, seeming resigned, approaching me with slow, steady steps.
"No, you did that because you're an animal."
He gave me two pats on the cheek, then wiped the blood running from my mouth.
"Take this one to solitary."
The prisoners began to shout, a real noisy commotion. I trembled at the thought of being locked up there. No one came back the same from solitary, but at that moment, I really think I'd prefer to go there than what was to come.
"But sir," one of the guards said, causing the inmates to fall silent in an attempt to hear something, "The solitary is occupied..."
The warden frowned, clearly irritated by the interruption.
"Then take him to cell 11," he ordered, his voice cold and authoritative.
That was the final blow, causing the uproar to become widespread, with even some inmates needing to be subdued with tear gas. I could see as I was pushed, Munford looking at me, a worried and distressed expression on his face; he said something I couldn't understand amidst the noise.
With my heart pounding erratically in my chest and my mind clouded with fear and uncertainty, I was led by the guards towards cell 11. Each step felt like it weighed tons, as if I were walking towards the abyss. I could feel the stares of the other inmates watching the scene, some with expressions of shock, others with a mixture of curiosity and indifference.
Finally, we arrived, and by this point, I was sweating uncontrollably; they opened the cell and threw me inside. My eyes instinctively closed as I fell to the ground. I didn't want to look at it. I got up, still blinding my vision, slowly groping around until I found the bed. I lay on it and turned to the wall beside it, my face as close as possible.
Lying on the hard bed, I could feel my heart beating so loudly that it seemed to echo off the concrete walls around me. Each beat was a pulsating reminder of my situation. I tried to push away the thoughts, but it was like trying to hold back a raging river with bare hands. All the while, I heard stories, heard things about that place, and now I was there, cornered by circumstances beyond my control.
Gradually, I noticed the thick layer of sweat forming around me. I could even feel my pores opening, pouring the water from my body in an attempt to cool myself in that stuffy, hot environment. I couldn't help but think about the heat of the card and... about Francis. He still had the card. Wasn't that dangerous? I fixated on musings about it.
In my feverish frenzy, time seemed to stretch infinitely in that dark cell, minutes dragging on like hours as I struggled to maintain my sanity. Every sound, every shadow was a source of growing anxiety until somehow, I fell into a deep sleep, dreamless this time.
I woke up in the middle of the night, with a faint noise coming from behind the heavy steel door. At first, I feared, wondering what it could be, but as soon as I regained my senses, I remembered where I was, and frankly, nothing outside could be worse. I cautiously approached the source of the sound, trying to listen better, when a "Hey, kid, it's me!" sounded whispered.
"Munford! Munford, I'm glad you're here, knew you wouldn't abandon me."
"Ha, I know, I know," he sounded nervous, perhaps hiding from the guards. "Look, I'd help you out, but I can't get it open from this side, try it there." A small plastic rectangle slid through the door gap. A credit card... I remembered I had done this many times before.
I grabbed the card and started working, carefully sliding it into the lock. Each movement was made with the precision I gained from years of street experience, trying not to make any noise that could attract the guards' attention. My mind was racing, and the tremor it transmitted to my fingers made motor coordination difficult.
Finally, after several minutes of trial and error, I heard a soft click, and the door opened slowly. I could smell the fresh air from the corridor and was already about to smile when, along with the bright light of a flashlight, I saw Bob, now with his neck and shoulder bandaged, along with three more of his cronies. Munford was being held by one, who held an improvised knife to his neck.
"Sorry, kid, they forced me," the old man lamented.
"Not so fast, princess." Bob pushed me inside, onto the floor, and then he entered with one of his cronies, closing the door behind him and illuminating me with the halo of his flashlight.
"What's up, Bob, can't you leave me alone?"
"You wanted to settle things, didn't you? Well..." he pointed to his wound. "You just signed your death warrant! But first, I'm going to make sure to pull out all your teeth and make you swallow them."
He lifted me by the collar of my shirt and landed a punch with his heavy hand. I felt dizzy, seeing stars, curling up into a fetal position. His laughter was now a terrifying melody to me.
"Look at this crybaby. Where did your bravery go?" He kicked my stomach, and I'm sure he found it an ironic poetic justice.
His cohort laughed until the beam of his flashlight shifted away from me.
"Hey Bob, what's that over there?" He said, simultaneously pointing with his finger and the flashlight.
Even though it was on the wall behind me, I knew what it was. I saw Bob straighten up to face it, becoming petrified. He and the other, standing there, mouths agape. I waited for seconds, counting mentally and holding my breath, expecting anything, but nothing. Until suddenly, I began to see small puddles forming under their lower eyelids, dark marks... of blood.
The red tears started to stream down their faces like large crimson waterfalls. Soon, they began to make a noise... a familiar noise, which made my mind freeze as I felt my toes curling inside my shoes and my mouth trembling uncontrollably. It was the same sound as Tulley's. They were now allowing these moans to escape their throats and resonate in the tight concrete walls.
I had to do something. I began slowly to pass by them, trying to edge around. When, however, I was almost reaching the door, I could see their shadows turning slowly in my direction. The tension in the air was palpable, as if it could be cut with a knife. I held myself back from trembling as I tried to maintain composure in front of those men, whose bloodshot eyes were now fixed on me, full of terror and despair.
"What... what's happening?" My voice came out in a trembling whisper, barely able to make myself heard.
Bob and his cohort remained silent. They began to walk towards me, and in desperation, I opened the cell door and slammed it loudly behind me, not caring about attracting the guards' attention. As I looked around, I actually noticed that this was a concern I didn't need to have.
The environment where I was wasn't what I expected, from the prison corridor. It was actually another cell. I stopped for a moment, confused, only to be surprised by a figure in the center of it. A man in a straitjacket looking at me with a petrified smile.
"I've been waiting for you," he said. His voice was blood-curdling, sounding like someone scratching a chalkboard with their nails or scraping a fork on a glass plate.
I tried to open the door but it was stuck. When I turned around again, he was leaning, his face inches from mine, eyes bloodshot. I almost fell backward. He laughed. It was like the last time, he had his mouth covered by a sticky red mass that dripped, probably serving as material for the painting, which now displayed an almost complete surreal eye. He turned and walked to the painting, and then he regurgitated it again. Since his hands were tied, he used his tongue as a brush, finishing the last line of the drawing.
"This," he whispered. "Is my masterpiece."
I was trembling. I had forgotten Munford's advice, and now I found myself petrified, just like the others, staring at the eye. I don't know how much time passed, but I felt like it was hours, days... years. All in the blink of an eye, or rather, in a stare without a single blink.
I tried in vain to regain my composure. Scenes of horror penetrated my mind. Cadavers, bodies marked by playing cards. Criminals, inmates being violently beaten with batons, pepper spray, and all sorts of luxuries the police can serve, I saw gang fights, blood, death, and abuse. I saw people being killed inside the prison. Each scene of violence that each of those who looked had already witnessed. My legs were no more than reeds in the wind now, and I just wanted to run away and scream, cry, and sleep to never wake up again. I tried to scream but the man came to me, placing his foot over my mouth.
"Shhh... you need to see."
He repeated this indefinitely. "need to see, need to see, need to see, need to see"
With superhuman effort, I managed to free myself from the weight of his foot on my mouth, but I could barely articulate coherent words. My voice came out trembling and weak when I finally managed to speak:
"What do you want from me? Why are you doing this?"
He simply continued smiling, as if my words were just another piece in his sadistic game. Then, with a quick and fluid movement, he approached me, so close that I could feel his fetid breath and the metallic smell of blood dripping from his mouth.
"Your mind is a fascinating playground," he murmured, his voice echoing in the claustrophobic space of the cell.
I felt tears running down my cheek, and I knew what color they were. I stood there, in shock, staring at the large painted eye, while my entire being was eaten alive in fear and dread. I don't know how much time passed, maybe the entire age of the universe, eternity, who knows. I woke up on the infirmary bed. Wires connected to my arm while a machine reproduced the "beeps" of my heart.
I looked to the side, seeing the green eyes of nurse Linda looking at me, concerned.
"Are you okay?"
"You need to see," I said, not even wanting to.
She frowned, evidently confused by my response. Linda seemed hesitant, as if she were trying to decide whether to ask more or simply ignore my strange statement. I could see the concern in her eyes, but also a certain curiosity, as if something inside her was intrigued by what I had to say.
"What do you mean by that?" She finally asked, her soft voice echoing in the silence of the infirmary.
I sat up slowly on the bed, feeling a wave of dizziness pass over me. My mind was still cloudy, as if I were struggling to emerge from a deep nightmare. I tried to articulate my words as coherently as possible.
"I... I saw things," I murmured, my voice still trembling. "Terrible things. In the cell... in there... something... something is wrong."
Linda watched me with a serious expression, her green eyes analyzing me carefully. She seemed to understand that something serious had happened, but couldn't fully comprehend what I was trying to communicate.
"Look... you and the others had a collective hallucination in that cell... The director has already arranged for an investigation, but we suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, we've already talked to him about the lack of windows in that place, but it seems he doesn't listen."
I stopped, confused by that information. Was I hallucinating? Well, maybe I would even think that if it weren't for what followed. A man in a dark suit entered. He had a serious and intimidating expression, and he asked Linda to leave.
"Listen here, young man, you're lucky to have come back. The others are catatonic... and probably won't come back to themselves. That's why your cooperation is extremely important, and we need to know: what did you see?"
I stumbled, recounting as much information as I could remember, from Tulley to Bob. The man listened to me without making any expression. After that, he took a radio that was hanging from his blazer and said some words that I didn't quite understand, something like "Ceter," "Queter"... and then he took a clipboard, handing it to me.
"This is your letter of freedom. Our proposal is as follows: We release you from prison and in exchange, you don't open your mouth about the specific events mentioned here," he pointed to the clauses.
That was five years ago, and given my freedom, you must imagine that not everything that happened is transcribed here, but the most important parts are. I ended up visiting Munford a few times after that, and I was horrified to discover that Francis, on the eve of his release, hanged himself with the bedsheet. The old man and I stared at each other after this discovery, in a mutual silent understanding. Shortly after, they closed not only the cell, but our entire pavilion, relocating the inmates. I never saw Munford or any of the others again after that. My nightmares persisted, but in recent months they have been much less frequent, and I think I might be slowly healing.
I wanted to say that this story ends well, with my rehabilitation. A troublesome prisoner full of stories becoming a family man. And it would be, if it weren't for the last 15 minutes of this morning. I believe you may remember that I received a letter this morning like that cursed number. I left it on the counter in the living room while I came here, to have breakfast and finish reporting this to you. When I finished the last paragraph, I went back to the room, but now, it seems like the whole nightmare is back.
I felt the tears, transparent this time, forming in my eyes. In the center of the room right now is Linda, holding the letter, looking at something in it that I can already imagine. She's standing there, wet and red stains on her face, I can hear her whispering "You need to see... need to see," and by God... I can see...
2024.05.11 16:56 sugarfreecaffeine First boat need help Grady White vs. Seaswirl Striper
Hi everyone,
I'm eyeing two used boats for my first purchase, focusing on nearshore fishing and some casual cruising NJ. I'd appreciate your opinions on which seems like the better deal.
1995 Grady White Tournament 19' - $14,000
Thanks for your help!
submitted by sugarfreecaffeine to boating [link] [comments]
I'm eyeing two used boats for my first purchase, focusing on nearshore fishing and some casual cruising NJ. I'd appreciate your opinions on which seems like the better deal.
1995 Grady White Tournament 19' - $14,000
- Condition: Very Good
- Motor: Mercury 150 outboard (hours unknown). Good compression; new water pump, thermostats, and prop last year.
- Features: New cushions, Simrad GPS/Chartplotter fish finder, full enclosure.
- Extras: Single axle roller trailer with new rollers, fresh bottom paint.
- History: Two owners, very well maintained by a retired gentleman.
- Sea Trial: Refused a sea trial
- Condition: Good
- Engine: 2014 Yamaha 200hp 4-stroke, approximately 250 hours.
- Features: Garmin EcoMap 94sv with downscan/sidescan thruhull transducer, Bennett trim tabs, VHF, AM/FM Bluetooth stereo, full Sunbrella covers, Bimini top with full enclosure.
- Trailer: 1999 Karavan dual axle with new axles, springs, and hardware.
- Maintenance: Owned and maintained by a retired mechanic, with service records available.
- Sea Trial: Open to do a sea trial
Thanks for your help!
2024.05.10 13:37 AttitudeDismal3817 grade my frqs
There's a lot where I'm not sure if I'd get the point or not so I'd just like to hear your thoughts on it.
Motor Cortex Gavin -The motor cortex is responsible for bodily movements. The motor cortex was activated when Gavin grabbed the large marble ball and tried to bounce it.
Avoidant Attachment Style Gavin -Children with an avoidant attachment to their parents will likely not worry when they are gone. Gavin would likely not have been trouhled when he was separated from his parents if he had an avoidant attachment towards them.
Cognitive Map Gavin -A cognitive map is a mental representation of one's environment. Gavin has likely formed a cognitive map of his preschool.
Egocentrism Gavin -Egocentrism refers to the inability of children in the preoperational stage to acknowledge viewpoints that are different from their own. If Gavin's grandma's view about his picture then Gavin would likely not consider it if that was the case
True Experiment Gonzales -One thing that Gonzales did to make this a true experiment was adding a control group to gauge the effect that the yellow printed paper had on the ability of the students to recall information from their course.
Cones Gavin -Cones in the retina are responsible for perceiving light. The cones allowed Gavin to perceive the wide array of different colors from the exhibits he explored.
Hypothesis Gonzales -Gonzales's hypothesis was that students given the yellow paper would be able to remember more information from the course than students given the white paper. His hypothesis was correct because the average score of the students given the yellow paper on the quiz was nearly 2 points higher than the average score of the students given the white paper.
Yerkes-Dodson law Gonzales -Yerkes-Dodson law says that arousal can improve performance, but only up to a certain level of arousal; too much or too little will have a negative impact on performance. Students will be able to perform better with the optimal amount of arousal, and will perform worse if there's too little or too much arousal.
Serial Position effect Gavin -The serial position effect refers to how people are able to clearly remember the first and last piece of information they consumed, but likely not the information in the middle. Gavin was likely able to remember the first and last exhibits he explored more clearly than the rest.
Conscientiousness Gonzales -Conscientiousness refers to how organized, disciplined, and methodical someone is. Students with a low level of conscientiousness would likely not study or not be methodical so they would perform worse on a quiz as a result of that.
Assimilation Gavin -Assimilation is fitting in new information into currently existing schemas. Gavin has likely played with balls that bounce a lot, so he likely has a schema that all balls are bouncy. This is why he tried to bounce the large marble ball, as that fits in with his schema.
Experimental Group Gonzales -The experimental group in the experiment were the students that were given a course description printed on yellow paper.
Dependent variable Gonzales -A dependent variable in an experiment is the variable that is influenced by the independent variable. The dependent variable in the experiment were the test scores of the students on a 10 question quiz.
Context-Dependent Memory Gonzales -Context-dependent memory refers to how people are able to remember more information if they have to retrieve the information in the same place where they learned it. Students will be able to perform better on a quiz if they are taking the quiz in the same classroom where they learned the material.
submitted by AttitudeDismal3817 to APPsychology [link] [comments]
Motor Cortex Gavin -The motor cortex is responsible for bodily movements. The motor cortex was activated when Gavin grabbed the large marble ball and tried to bounce it.
Avoidant Attachment Style Gavin -Children with an avoidant attachment to their parents will likely not worry when they are gone. Gavin would likely not have been trouhled when he was separated from his parents if he had an avoidant attachment towards them.
Cognitive Map Gavin -A cognitive map is a mental representation of one's environment. Gavin has likely formed a cognitive map of his preschool.
Egocentrism Gavin -Egocentrism refers to the inability of children in the preoperational stage to acknowledge viewpoints that are different from their own. If Gavin's grandma's view about his picture then Gavin would likely not consider it if that was the case
True Experiment Gonzales -One thing that Gonzales did to make this a true experiment was adding a control group to gauge the effect that the yellow printed paper had on the ability of the students to recall information from their course.
Cones Gavin -Cones in the retina are responsible for perceiving light. The cones allowed Gavin to perceive the wide array of different colors from the exhibits he explored.
Hypothesis Gonzales -Gonzales's hypothesis was that students given the yellow paper would be able to remember more information from the course than students given the white paper. His hypothesis was correct because the average score of the students given the yellow paper on the quiz was nearly 2 points higher than the average score of the students given the white paper.
Yerkes-Dodson law Gonzales -Yerkes-Dodson law says that arousal can improve performance, but only up to a certain level of arousal; too much or too little will have a negative impact on performance. Students will be able to perform better with the optimal amount of arousal, and will perform worse if there's too little or too much arousal.
Serial Position effect Gavin -The serial position effect refers to how people are able to clearly remember the first and last piece of information they consumed, but likely not the information in the middle. Gavin was likely able to remember the first and last exhibits he explored more clearly than the rest.
Conscientiousness Gonzales -Conscientiousness refers to how organized, disciplined, and methodical someone is. Students with a low level of conscientiousness would likely not study or not be methodical so they would perform worse on a quiz as a result of that.
Assimilation Gavin -Assimilation is fitting in new information into currently existing schemas. Gavin has likely played with balls that bounce a lot, so he likely has a schema that all balls are bouncy. This is why he tried to bounce the large marble ball, as that fits in with his schema.
Experimental Group Gonzales -The experimental group in the experiment were the students that were given a course description printed on yellow paper.
Dependent variable Gonzales -A dependent variable in an experiment is the variable that is influenced by the independent variable. The dependent variable in the experiment were the test scores of the students on a 10 question quiz.
Context-Dependent Memory Gonzales -Context-dependent memory refers to how people are able to remember more information if they have to retrieve the information in the same place where they learned it. Students will be able to perform better on a quiz if they are taking the quiz in the same classroom where they learned the material.
2024.05.09 02:50 cancersalesman Small (plywood?) dinghy plans
Looking to find plans for a small sailing dinghy. 3 or 4 person capacity, with a daggerboard or a hinged centerboard as I want to be able to put it on top of a car for transportation. Ideally, it'd be 16' long or shorter, and also capable of mounting a small outboard motor.
I'm also really hoping for something that'll be simple to construct, as I don't have any boatbuilding experience; I've been building, repairing, restoring and refinishing furniture for most of my life, though, and am a Machinist by education, so I'm reasonably comfortable working with wood and metal, just not Fiberglass or anything involving epoxy resin. I'd also prefer a design that wouldn't require bending wood, because I don't know how to do that. Simple Plywood is probably going to be the best for me.
I intend to sail it, mostly, on relatively calm inland lakes in Michigan. The Great Lakes are famously unforgiving to small craft, even nearer to the shore, and I don't really intend on sailing in them. However, if there's a design of the size I'm looking for that could handle it, I would love that as well.
submitted by cancersalesman to boatbuilding [link] [comments]
I'm also really hoping for something that'll be simple to construct, as I don't have any boatbuilding experience; I've been building, repairing, restoring and refinishing furniture for most of my life, though, and am a Machinist by education, so I'm reasonably comfortable working with wood and metal, just not Fiberglass or anything involving epoxy resin. I'd also prefer a design that wouldn't require bending wood, because I don't know how to do that. Simple Plywood is probably going to be the best for me.
I intend to sail it, mostly, on relatively calm inland lakes in Michigan. The Great Lakes are famously unforgiving to small craft, even nearer to the shore, and I don't really intend on sailing in them. However, if there's a design of the size I'm looking for that could handle it, I would love that as well.
2024.05.07 17:25 poudenes ['Previously Under-Volted', 'Previously Throttled']
Hi All,
Im printing now for some months. Have a RPi4 with his own original power supply. USB cable connected to the BTT SKR MINI E3 V2.
Since yesterday I see the message
printer.cfg:
submitted by poudenes to BIGTREETECH [link] [comments]
Im printing now for some months. Have a RPi4 with his own original power supply. USB cable connected to the BTT SKR MINI E3 V2.
Since yesterday I see the message
['Previously Under-Volted', 'Previously Throttled']What can this be?
printer.cfg:
[firmware_retraction] retract_length: 0 retract_speed: 20 unretract_extra_length: 0 unretract_speed: 10 [auto_speed] [display_status] [pause_resume] [exclude_object] [include fluidd.cfg] [include macros.conf] [bed_screws] screw1: 47, 75 screw2: 47, 235 screw3: 214, 235 screw4: 214, 75 [screws_tilt_adjust] # NEW ADDED FOR BL TOUCH screw1: 75, 47 screw1_name: Voor links screw2: 235, 47 screw2_name: Voor rechts screw3: 235, 214 screw3_name: Achter rechts screw4: 75, 214 screw4_name: Achter links speed: 100 horizontal_move_z: 5 screw_thread: CW-M4 [bed_mesh] # NEW ADDED FOR BL TOUCH speed: 300 horizontal_move_z: 5 mesh_min: 45,45 mesh_max: 185,185 probe_count: 7,7 algorithm: bicubic fade_start: 1 fade_end: 10 fade_target: 0 [bltouch] sensor_pin: ^PC14 control_pin: PA1 x_offset: -44 y_offset: -10 #z_offset: 5 [safe_z_home] home_xy_position: 117.5, 117.5 speed: 100 z_hop: 10 z_hop_speed: 10 [stepper_z] # FOR BLTOUCH step_pin: PB0 dir_pin: PC5 enable_pin: !PB1 microsteps: 16 rotation_distance: 8 endstop_pin: probe:z_virtual_endstop position_max: 250 [tmc2209 stepper_z] # FOR BLTOUCH uart_pin: PC11 tx_pin: PC10 uart_address: 1 run_current: 0.580 stealthchop_threshold: 999999 # [stepper_z] # FOR ENDSTOP SENSOR # step_pin: PB0 # dir_pin: PC5 # enable_pin: !PB1 # microsteps: 16 # rotation_distance: 8 # endstop_pin: ^PC2 # position_endstop: 0.0 # position_max: 250 # [tmc2209 stepper_z] # FOR ENDSTOP SENSOR # uart_pin: PC11 # tx_pin: PC10 # uart_address: 1 # run_current: 0.580 # stealthchop_threshold: 999999 [stepper_x] step_pin: PB13 dir_pin: !PB12 enable_pin: !PB14 microsteps: 16 rotation_distance: 40 endstop_pin: ^PC0 position_endstop: 0 position_max: 235 homing_speed: 25 # 15 [tmc2209 stepper_x] uart_pin: PC11 tx_pin: PC10 uart_address: 0 run_current: 0.580 stealthchop_threshold: 999999 [stepper_y] step_pin: PB10 dir_pin: !PB2 enable_pin: !PB11 microsteps: 16 rotation_distance: 40 endstop_pin: ^PC1 position_endstop: 0 position_max: 235 homing_speed: 25 # 15 [tmc2209 stepper_y] uart_pin: PC11 tx_pin: PC10 uart_address: 2 run_current: 0.580 stealthchop_threshold: 999999 ###################################### # KLIPPER TMC STEPPER ###################################### # [motor_constants bj42d15_26v09] # resistance: 30 # inductance: 51 # holding_torque: 0.34 # max_current: 0.4 # steps_per_revolution: 200 # [motor_constants bj42d22_23v01] # resistance: 9.6 # inductance: 20 # holding_torque: 0.4 # max_current: 1 # steps_per_revolution: 200 # [autotune_tmc stepper_x] # motor: bj42d15_26v09 # tuning_goal: silent # performance # [autotune_tmc stepper_y] # motor: bj42d15_26v09 # tuning_goal: silent # performance # [autotune_tmc stepper_z] # motor: bj42d15_26v09 # tuning_goal: silent # [autotune_tmc extruder] # motor: bj42d22_23v01 ###################################### # END KLIPPER TMC STEPPER ###################################### [extruder] step_pin: PB3 dir_pin: !PB4 enable_pin: !PD2 microsteps: 16 rotation_distance: 32.2791 # 28-04-2024 old value was 33.978 nozzle_diameter: 0.400 filament_diameter: 1.750 heater_pin: PC8 sensor_type: EPCOS 100K B57560G104F sensor_pin: PA0 min_temp: 0 max_temp: 250 pressure_advance: 0.46 max_extrude_only_distance: 301.0 # from 100 to 101 https://ellis3dp.com/Print-Tuning-Guide/articles/extruder_calibration.html # min_extrude_temp: 0 # add new https://ellis3dp.com/Print-Tuning-Guide/articles/extruder_calibration.html # pressure_advance: 0.0 # Needed for Pressure advance tuning - https://www.klipper3d.org/Pressure_Advance.html # pressure_advance_lookahead_time: 0.010 # Needed for Pressure advance tuning - https://www.klipper3d.org/Pressure_Advance.html # control: pid # tuned for stock hardware with 200 degree Celsius target # pid_Kp: 21.527 # pid_Ki: 1.063 # pid_Kd: 108.982 [tmc2209 extruder] uart_pin: PC11 tx_pin: PC10 uart_address: 3 run_current: 0.650 stealthchop_threshold: 999999 [heater_bed] heater_pin: PC9 sensor_type: EPCOS 100K B57560G104F sensor_pin: PC3 min_temp: 0 max_temp: 130 # control: pid # tuned for stock hardware with 50 degree Celsius target # pid_Kp: 54.027 # pid_Ki: 0.770 # pid_Kd: 948.182 [heater_fan heatbreak_cooling_fan] pin: PC7 [fan] pin: PC6 [mcu] serial: /dev/serial/by-id/usb-Klipper_stm32f103xe_34FFD9055253313321502451-if00 [printer] # ORIGINAL SETTINGS # kinematics: cartesian # max_velocity: 300 # max_accel: 3000 # max_z_velocity: 5 # max_z_accel: 100 # SETTINGS AFTER AUTO_SPEED WITHOUT HMC TUNING kinematics: cartesian max_velocity: 191 max_accel: 4615 max_z_velocity: 5 max_z_accel: 100 [static_digital_output usb_pullup_enable] pins: !PA14 [board_pins] aliases: # EXP1 header EXP1_1=PB5, EXP1_3=PA9, EXP1_5=PA10, EXP1_7=PB8, EXP1_9=, EXP1_2=PA15, EXP1_4= , EXP1_6=PB9, EXP1_8=PB15, EXP1_10=<5V> [display] lcd_type: st7920 cs_pin: PB8 sclk_pin: PB9 sid_pin: PB15 encoder_pins: ^PA10, ^PA9 click_pin: ^!PA15 [temperature_sensor RPi4] sensor_type: temperature_host min_temp: 0 max_temp: 100 [virtual_sdcard] path: ~/printer_data/gcodes # resolution: 0.5 # The print bed can move so far to the front, that the nozzle can reach the # plastic cover of the print bed heater cable (only when the bed is moved by # hand). By homing the Y axis before the X axis, it is ensured the nozzle will # not melt through the plastic part. # BEWARE: You will lose the ability to home axes individually. The printer will # always home all axes for every G28 command. #[homing_override] #gcode: # G28 Y0 # G28 X0 # G28 Z0 #*# <---------------------- SAVE_CONFIG -------------------- #*# DO NOT EDIT THIS BLOCK OR BELOW. The contents are auto-generated. #*# #*# [extruder] #*# control = pid #*# pid_kp = 26.922 #*# pid_ki = 1.603 #*# pid_kd = 113.073 #*# #*# [heater_bed] #*# control = pid #*# pid_kp = 67.576 #*# pid_ki = 1.626 #*# pid_kd = 701.945 #*# #*# [bltouch] #*# z_offset = 2.090 #*# #*# [bed_mesh default] #*# version = 1 #*# points = #*# 0.012500, -0.007500, -0.037500, -0.047500, -0.032500, -0.012500, -0.017500 #*# -0.012500, -0.027500, -0.047500, -0.045000, -0.020000, 0.000000, 0.005000 #*# -0.005000, -0.022500, -0.050000, -0.052500, -0.035000, -0.012500, -0.005000 #*# 0.005000, -0.005000, -0.042500, -0.042500, -0.037500, -0.022500, -0.032500 #*# -0.025000, -0.040000, -0.067500, -0.065000, -0.037500, -0.017500, -0.015000 #*# -0.007500, -0.027500, -0.057500, -0.047500, -0.037500, -0.017500, -0.025000 #*# 0.047500, 0.035000, 0.000000, -0.007500, 0.010000, 0.012500, -0.005000 #*# x_count = 7 #*# y_count = 7 #*# mesh_x_pps = 2 #*# mesh_y_pps = 2 #*# algo = bicubic #*# tension = 0.2 #*# min_x = 45.0 #*# max_x = 184.97 #*# min_y = 45.0 #*# max_y = 184.97
2024.05.07 17:21 poudenes ['Previously Under-Volted', 'Previously Throttled']
Hi All,
Im printing now for some months. Have a RPi4 with his own original power supply. USB cable connected to the BTT SKR MINI E3 V2.
Since yesterday I see the message
printer.cfg:
submitted by poudenes to klippers [link] [comments]
Im printing now for some months. Have a RPi4 with his own original power supply. USB cable connected to the BTT SKR MINI E3 V2.
Since yesterday I see the message
['Previously Under-Volted', 'Previously Throttled']What can this be?
printer.cfg:
[firmware_retraction] retract_length: 0 retract_speed: 20 unretract_extra_length: 0 unretract_speed: 10 [auto_speed] [display_status] [pause_resume] [exclude_object] [include fluidd.cfg] [include macros.conf] [bed_screws] screw1: 47, 75 screw2: 47, 235 screw3: 214, 235 screw4: 214, 75 [screws_tilt_adjust] # NEW ADDED FOR BL TOUCH screw1: 75, 47 screw1_name: Voor links screw2: 235, 47 screw2_name: Voor rechts screw3: 235, 214 screw3_name: Achter rechts screw4: 75, 214 screw4_name: Achter links speed: 100 horizontal_move_z: 5 screw_thread: CW-M4 [bed_mesh] # NEW ADDED FOR BL TOUCH speed: 300 horizontal_move_z: 5 mesh_min: 45,45 mesh_max: 185,185 probe_count: 7,7 algorithm: bicubic fade_start: 1 fade_end: 10 fade_target: 0 [bltouch] sensor_pin: ^PC14 control_pin: PA1 x_offset: -44 y_offset: -10 #z_offset: 5 [safe_z_home] home_xy_position: 117.5, 117.5 speed: 100 z_hop: 10 z_hop_speed: 10 [stepper_z] # FOR BLTOUCH step_pin: PB0 dir_pin: PC5 enable_pin: !PB1 microsteps: 16 rotation_distance: 8 endstop_pin: probe:z_virtual_endstop position_max: 250 [tmc2209 stepper_z] # FOR BLTOUCH uart_pin: PC11 tx_pin: PC10 uart_address: 1 run_current: 0.580 stealthchop_threshold: 999999 # [stepper_z] # FOR ENDSTOP SENSOR # step_pin: PB0 # dir_pin: PC5 # enable_pin: !PB1 # microsteps: 16 # rotation_distance: 8 # endstop_pin: ^PC2 # position_endstop: 0.0 # position_max: 250 # [tmc2209 stepper_z] # FOR ENDSTOP SENSOR # uart_pin: PC11 # tx_pin: PC10 # uart_address: 1 # run_current: 0.580 # stealthchop_threshold: 999999 [stepper_x] step_pin: PB13 dir_pin: !PB12 enable_pin: !PB14 microsteps: 16 rotation_distance: 40 endstop_pin: ^PC0 position_endstop: 0 position_max: 235 homing_speed: 25 # 15 [tmc2209 stepper_x] uart_pin: PC11 tx_pin: PC10 uart_address: 0 run_current: 0.580 stealthchop_threshold: 999999 [stepper_y] step_pin: PB10 dir_pin: !PB2 enable_pin: !PB11 microsteps: 16 rotation_distance: 40 endstop_pin: ^PC1 position_endstop: 0 position_max: 235 homing_speed: 25 # 15 [tmc2209 stepper_y] uart_pin: PC11 tx_pin: PC10 uart_address: 2 run_current: 0.580 stealthchop_threshold: 999999 ###################################### # KLIPPER TMC STEPPER ###################################### # [motor_constants bj42d15_26v09] # resistance: 30 # inductance: 51 # holding_torque: 0.34 # max_current: 0.4 # steps_per_revolution: 200 # [motor_constants bj42d22_23v01] # resistance: 9.6 # inductance: 20 # holding_torque: 0.4 # max_current: 1 # steps_per_revolution: 200 # [autotune_tmc stepper_x] # motor: bj42d15_26v09 # tuning_goal: silent # performance # [autotune_tmc stepper_y] # motor: bj42d15_26v09 # tuning_goal: silent # performance # [autotune_tmc stepper_z] # motor: bj42d15_26v09 # tuning_goal: silent # [autotune_tmc extruder] # motor: bj42d22_23v01 ###################################### # END KLIPPER TMC STEPPER ###################################### [extruder] step_pin: PB3 dir_pin: !PB4 enable_pin: !PD2 microsteps: 16 rotation_distance: 32.2791 # 28-04-2024 old value was 33.978 nozzle_diameter: 0.400 filament_diameter: 1.750 heater_pin: PC8 sensor_type: EPCOS 100K B57560G104F sensor_pin: PA0 min_temp: 0 max_temp: 250 pressure_advance: 0.46 max_extrude_only_distance: 301.0 # from 100 to 101 https://ellis3dp.com/Print-Tuning-Guide/articles/extruder_calibration.html # min_extrude_temp: 0 # add new https://ellis3dp.com/Print-Tuning-Guide/articles/extruder_calibration.html # pressure_advance: 0.0 # Needed for Pressure advance tuning - https://www.klipper3d.org/Pressure_Advance.html # pressure_advance_lookahead_time: 0.010 # Needed for Pressure advance tuning - https://www.klipper3d.org/Pressure_Advance.html # control: pid # tuned for stock hardware with 200 degree Celsius target # pid_Kp: 21.527 # pid_Ki: 1.063 # pid_Kd: 108.982 [tmc2209 extruder] uart_pin: PC11 tx_pin: PC10 uart_address: 3 run_current: 0.650 stealthchop_threshold: 999999 [heater_bed] heater_pin: PC9 sensor_type: EPCOS 100K B57560G104F sensor_pin: PC3 min_temp: 0 max_temp: 130 # control: pid # tuned for stock hardware with 50 degree Celsius target # pid_Kp: 54.027 # pid_Ki: 0.770 # pid_Kd: 948.182 [heater_fan heatbreak_cooling_fan] pin: PC7 [fan] pin: PC6 [mcu] serial: /dev/serial/by-id/usb-Klipper_stm32f103xe_34FFD9055253313321502451-if00 [printer] # ORIGINAL SETTINGS # kinematics: cartesian # max_velocity: 300 # max_accel: 3000 # max_z_velocity: 5 # max_z_accel: 100 # SETTINGS AFTER AUTO_SPEED WITHOUT HMC TUNING kinematics: cartesian max_velocity: 191 max_accel: 4615 max_z_velocity: 5 max_z_accel: 100 [static_digital_output usb_pullup_enable] pins: !PA14 [board_pins] aliases: # EXP1 header EXP1_1=PB5, EXP1_3=PA9, EXP1_5=PA10, EXP1_7=PB8, EXP1_9=, EXP1_2=PA15, EXP1_4= , EXP1_6=PB9, EXP1_8=PB15, EXP1_10=<5V> [display] lcd_type: st7920 cs_pin: PB8 sclk_pin: PB9 sid_pin: PB15 encoder_pins: ^PA10, ^PA9 click_pin: ^!PA15 [temperature_sensor RPi4] sensor_type: temperature_host min_temp: 0 max_temp: 100 [virtual_sdcard] path: ~/printer_data/gcodes # resolution: 0.5 # The print bed can move so far to the front, that the nozzle can reach the # plastic cover of the print bed heater cable (only when the bed is moved by # hand). By homing the Y axis before the X axis, it is ensured the nozzle will # not melt through the plastic part. # BEWARE: You will lose the ability to home axes individually. The printer will # always home all axes for every G28 command. #[homing_override] #gcode: # G28 Y0 # G28 X0 # G28 Z0 #*# <---------------------- SAVE_CONFIG -------------------- #*# DO NOT EDIT THIS BLOCK OR BELOW. The contents are auto-generated. #*# #*# [extruder] #*# control = pid #*# pid_kp = 26.922 #*# pid_ki = 1.603 #*# pid_kd = 113.073 #*# #*# [heater_bed] #*# control = pid #*# pid_kp = 67.576 #*# pid_ki = 1.626 #*# pid_kd = 701.945 #*# #*# [bltouch] #*# z_offset = 2.090 #*# #*# [bed_mesh default] #*# version = 1 #*# points = #*# 0.012500, -0.007500, -0.037500, -0.047500, -0.032500, -0.012500, -0.017500 #*# -0.012500, -0.027500, -0.047500, -0.045000, -0.020000, 0.000000, 0.005000 #*# -0.005000, -0.022500, -0.050000, -0.052500, -0.035000, -0.012500, -0.005000 #*# 0.005000, -0.005000, -0.042500, -0.042500, -0.037500, -0.022500, -0.032500 #*# -0.025000, -0.040000, -0.067500, -0.065000, -0.037500, -0.017500, -0.015000 #*# -0.007500, -0.027500, -0.057500, -0.047500, -0.037500, -0.017500, -0.025000 #*# 0.047500, 0.035000, 0.000000, -0.007500, 0.010000, 0.012500, -0.005000 #*# x_count = 7 #*# y_count = 7 #*# mesh_x_pps = 2 #*# mesh_y_pps = 2 #*# algo = bicubic #*# tension = 0.2 #*# min_x = 45.0 #*# max_x = 184.97 #*# min_y = 45.0 #*# max_y = 184.97
2024.05.05 13:53 throwawa9099 Trouble calibrating my printer
Hello,
I am completely new to klipper and fairly new to 3d printing. I have set an z-offset in the config file using "position_endstop", which seems to work fine. The offset takes effect, when i press the Home All Button. I then added the screws in the config file and tried using the bed_screws_adjust command to adjust them accordingly. When I try to adjust the screws the z offset does not take effect. Is there anyway to change the config, so it takes effect while trying to level?
Makros: Printer: Anycubic i3 mega S
stepper motor: 2208
config File:
submitted by throwawa9099 to klippers [link] [comments]
I am completely new to klipper and fairly new to 3d printing. I have set an z-offset in the config file using "position_endstop", which seems to work fine. The offset takes effect, when i press the Home All Button. I then added the screws in the config file and tried using the bed_screws_adjust command to adjust them accordingly. When I try to adjust the screws the z offset does not take effect. Is there anyway to change the config, so it takes effect while trying to level?
Makros: Printer: Anycubic i3 mega S
stepper motor: 2208
config File:
# # Klipper configuration file for Anycubic i3 MEGA S # # This config file contains settings of all printer pins (steppers, sensors) for Anycubic i3 mega S with TMC2208 Drivers with stock plug orientation # Klipper firmware should be compiled for the atmega2560 # # Config file includes # - Original or 2208(2209) rotated by cable drivers # - Mesh bed leveling: BLtouch (3DTouch sensor from Triangelab) # - Manual meshed bed leveling (commented out) # - 'virtual_sdcard' for fast printing without gaps # - Beeper through M300 gcode # - Pause/Resume through M600 for filament change # - START_PRINT/END_PRINT macros should be start and end g-code in slicer # - Pressure Advance and Input Shaper configured # # 3DTouch code is commented out. Z limit switches are used to home Z axis. # # Video covering installation here: https://youtu.be/cAxEIdThDiQ # # The latest version of the config reference is also available online at: # https://www.klipper3d.org/Config_Reference.html [bed_screws] screw1: 7,5 screw2: 215,5 screw3: 7, 215 screw4: 215, 215 [stepper_x] step_pin = PF0 ## "!" for stock and TMC2208 with reversed plugs #dir_pin = !PF1 dir_pin = PF1 enable_pin = !PD7 rotation_distance = 40 Full_Steps_Per_Rotation = 200 Microsteps = 16 endstop_pin = ^!PE5 position_min = 0 position_endstop = 0 position_max = 230 homing_speed = 30 homing_retract_dist = 5 second_homing_speed = 10 [stepper_y] step_pin = PF6 ## "" for stock and TMC2208 with reversed plugs #dir_pin = PF7 dir_pin = !PF7 enable_pin = !PF2 rotation_distance = 40 Full_Steps_Per_Rotation = 200 Microsteps = 16 endstop_pin = ^!PL7 position_endstop = 0 position_max = 230 homing_speed = 50 homing_retract_dist = 5 second_homing_speed = 10 [stepper_z] step_pin = PL3 ## "" for stock and TMC2208 with reversed plugs #dir_pin = PL1 dir_pin = !PL1 enable_pin = !PK0 rotation_distance = 8 Full_Steps_Per_Rotation = 200 Microsteps = 16 ## uncomment below for 3dtouch. comment for mannual mesh bed leveling #endstop_pin = probe:z_virtual_endstop ## comment 2 lines below for 3dtouch bed leveling and to disable Z limit switches endstop_pin = ^!PD3 position_endstop = 1.0 position_max = 210 position_min = 0 homing_speed = 10 homing_retract_dist = 5 second_homing_speed = 3 [stepper_z1] step_pin = PC1 ## "" for stock and TMC2208 with reversed plugs #dir_pin = PC3 dir_pin = !PC3 ## comment below for 3dtouch bed leveling and to disable Z limit switches # endstop_pin = ^!PL6 enable_pin = !PC7 #step_distance = .0025 rotation_distance = 8 Full_Steps_Per_Rotation = 200 Microsteps = 16 [extruder] step_pin = PA4 ## "" for stock and TMC2208 with reversed plugs #dir_pin = PA6 dir_pin = !PA6 enable_pin = !PA2 #control = pid ## original extruder stepper motor rotation_distance = 8 Full_Steps_Per_Rotation = 200 Microsteps = 16 ## NEMA17 23mm stepper motor #step_distance = .00236 nozzle_diameter = 0.400 filament_diameter = 1.750 heater_pin = PB4 sensor_type = ATC Semitec 104GT-2 sensor_pin = PK5 min_temp = 0 max_temp = 285 max_extrude_only_distance = 150.0 smooth_time = 1 min_extrude_temp = 180 pressure_advance = 0.3624 max_extrude_cross_section = 150 [heater_fan extruder_fan] pin = PL5 [heater_bed] heater_pin = PH5 sensor_type = EPCOS 100K B57560G104F sensor_pin = PK6 min_temp = 0 max_temp = 110 smooth_time = 1 #control = pid [fan] pin = PH6 [mcu] serial = /dev/serial/by-id/usb-Silicon_Labs_CP2102N_USB_to_UART_Bridge_Controller_88a7ec4710e7e8118bf34de64b629a73-if00-port0 [printer] kinematics = cartesian max_velocity = 300 max_accel = 10000 #4000 minimum_cruise_ratio: 0.50 #1500 max_z_velocity = 20 #7 max_z_accel = 500 #190 square_corner_velocity = 5 ## do your own measurement ## https://www.klipper3d.org/Resonance_Compensation.html #[input_shaper] #shaper_freq_x = 85.0 #shaper_freq_y = 48.4 #shaper_type = MVZ #VZ #3hump_ei [heater_fan stepstick_fan] pin = PH4 ##Turn ON to adjust home location from 0,0,0 #[safe_z_home] #home_xy_position = 100,100 #speed = 150 #z_hop = 10 #z_hop_speed = 10 ## manual mesh bed leveling # [bed_mesh] # speed = 50 # horizontal_move_z = 5 # mesh_min = 30,30 # mesh_max = 180,180 # probe_count = 5,5 # fade_start = 1.0 # fade_end = 10.0 # enable moving befor homing ## put in terminal: ## SET_KINEMATIC_POSITION X=100 Y=100 Z=100 ## then move as usual [force_move] enable_force_move: True [virtual_sdcard] path: /home/printerpi/printer_data/gcodes [output_pin BEEPER_pin] pin: PC6 pwm: True value: 0 shutdown_value: 0 cycle_time: 0.001 scale: 1000 [gcode_macro M300] # default_parameter_S: 1000 # default_parameter_P: 100 gcode: {% set S = params.Sdefault(1000)float %} {% set P = params.Pdefault(100)float %} SET_PIN PIN=BEEPER_pin VALUE=1000 G4 P100 SET_PIN PIN=BEEPER_pin VALUE=0 [display_status] # change filament [pause_resume] [firmware_retraction] retract_length: 6 # The length of filament (in mm) to retract when G10 is activated, # and to unretract when G11 is activated (but see # unretract_extra_length below). The default is 0 mm. retract_speed: 25 # The speed of retraction, in mm/s. The default is 20 mm/s. unretract_extra_length: 1 # The length (in mm) of *additional* filament to add when # unretracting. unretract_speed: 10 # The speed of unretraction, in mm/s. The default is 10 mm/s. [gcode_macro M600] # default_parameter_X: 50 # default_parameter_Y: 0 # default_parameter_Z: 10 gcode: {% set X = params.Xdefault(50)float %} {% set Y = params.Ydefault(0)float %} {% set Z = params.Zdefault(10)float %} SAVE_GCODE_STATE NAME=M600_state PAUSE G91 G1 E-.8 F2700 G1 Z{Z} G90 G1 X{X} Y{Y} F3000 G91 G1 E-150 F1000 M300 S299 P200 M300 S299 P200 M300 S299 P200 M300 S299 P200 M300 S299 P200 RESTORE_GCODE_STATE NAME=M600_state [gcode_macro PAUSE] rename_existing: BASE_PAUSE # change this if you need more or less extrusion variable_extrude: 1.0 gcode: ##### read E from pause macro ##### {% set E = printer["gcode_macro PAUSE"].extrudefloat %} ##### set park positon for x and y ##### # default is your max posion from your printer.cfg {% set x_park = printer.toolhead.axis_maximum.xfloat - 5.0 %} {% set y_park = printer.toolhead.axis_maximum.yfloat - 5.0 %} ##### calculate save lift position ##### {% set max_z = printer.toolhead.axis_maximum.zfloat %} {% set act_z = printer.toolhead.position.zfloat %} {% if act_z < (max_z - 2.0) %} {% set z_safe = 2.0 %} {% else %} {% set z_safe = max_z - act_z %} {% endif %} ##### end of definitions ##### SAVE_GCODE_STATE NAME=PAUSE_state BASE_PAUSE G91 G1 E-{E} F2100 G1 Z{z_safe} F900 G90 G1 X{x_park} Y{y_park} F6000 [gcode_macro RESUME] rename_existing: BASE_RESUME gcode: ##### read E from pause macro ##### {% set E = printer["gcode_macro PAUSE"].extrudefloat %} ##### end of definitions ##### G91 G1 E{E} F2100 RESTORE_GCODE_STATE NAME=PAUSE_state BASE_RESUME [gcode_macro CANCEL_PRINT] rename_existing: BASE_CANCEL_PRINT gcode: TURN_OFF_HEATERS G91 #relative positioning # G1 E-.1 G10 G1 Z10 Y50 F1000 #Z axis up 10mm, Y out 50mm G90 #absolute positioning G28 X0 #home X axis CLEAR_PAUSE SDCARD_RESET_FILE BASE_CANCEL_PRINT [gcode_macro START_PRINT] gcode: G28 X0 Y0 ; move X/Y to min endstops G28 Z0 ; move Z to min endstops G1 Z20 Y5 F500 ; move nozzle away from bed G92 E0 ; zero the extruded length G1 E2 F2400 ; extrude 5mm of feed stock G92 E0 ; zero the extruded length again M117 Printing... [gcode_macro END_PRINT] gcode: M400 ; Clear Buffer M104 S0 ; turn off extruder M140 S0 ; turn off bed G10 ; retract G91 ; relative positioning G1 E-0.03 Z1.00 X20.0 Y20.0 ; move nozzle to remove stringing M106 S0 ; turn off fan G1 Z20 ; move nozzle up 20mm G90 ; absolute positioning G0 X0 Y175 ; park nozzle at rear M84 ; steppers off G4 P250 ; dwell #_TIMELAPSE_NEW_FRAME M300 ; Beep [gcode_macro Heat_Hotend] gcode: SET_HEATER_TEMPERATURE HEATER=extruder TARGET=200 #[gcode_macro _TIMELAPSE_NEW_FRAME] #gcode: # {action_call_remote_method("timelapse_newframe")} # ; leave this in a separate macro! #[gcode_macro TIMELAPSE_TAKE_FRAME] #gcode: # G10 # SAVE_GCODE_STATE NAME=SNAPSHOT # G1 X175.0 F10000 # G1 Y100.0 F10000 # G4 P500 ;dwell # M400 ;clear buffer # _TIMELAPSE_NEW_FRAME # G4 P250 ;moar dwelling # M400 # RESTORE_GCODE_STATE NAME=SNAPSHOT MOVE=1 # G11 #[gcode_macro TIMELAPSE_RENDER] #gcode: # {action_call_remote_method("timelapse_render")} #[gcode_macro TOGGLE_LEDLIGHTS] #gcode: # SET_PIN PIN=LEDlights VALUE={(not printer['output_pin LEDlights'].value)int} ## for Measuring Resonances through Raspberry pi ## https://www.klipper3d.org/Measuring_Resonances.html ## [mcu rpi] ## serial: /tmp/klipper_host_mcu ## [output_pin LEDlights] ## pin: rpi:gpio17 ## value: 1 ## shutdown_value: 1 ## [adxl345] ## cs_pin: rpi:None ## [resonance_tester] ## accel_chip: adxl345 ## probe_points: ## 100,100,20 # an example #*# <---------------------- SAVE_CONFIG -------------------- #*# DO NOT EDIT THIS BLOCK OR BELOW. The contents are auto-generated. #*# #*# [heater_bed] #*# pid_kp = 73.183 #*# pid_ki = 3.253 #*# pid_kd = 411.656 #*# control = pid #*# #*# [input_shaper] #*# shaper_type_x = 3hump_ei #*# shaper_type_y = 3hump_ei #*# #*# [extruder] #*# pid_kp = 25.666 #*# pid_ki = 1.267 #*# pid_kd = 129.932 #*# control = pid #*# #*# #*# [bed_mesh default] #*# version = 1 #*# points = #*# -0.735000, -0.510000, -0.330000, -0.190000, -0.040000, 0.042500 #*# -0.670000, -0.432500, -0.240000, -0.095000, 0.065000, 0.185000 #*# -0.642500, -0.377500, -0.167500, -0.015000, 0.162500, 0.275000 #*# -0.627500, -0.372500, -0.152500, 0.020000, 0.200000, 0.305000 #*# -0.640000, -0.402500, -0.180000, -0.002500, 0.162500, 0.252500 #*# -0.627500, -0.422500, -0.232500, -0.090000, 0.047500, 0.112500 #*# tension = 0.2 #*# min_x = 30.0 #*# algo = bicubic #*# y_count = 6 #*# mesh_y_pps = 2 #*# min_y = 5.0 #*# x_count = 6 #*# max_y = 190.0 #*# mesh_x_pps = 2 #*# max_x = 200.0 2024.05.04 20:20 Flagg1991 Children of the Night (Part 4)
Club Vlad sat near the confluence of Central Avenue and Washington Avenue, Albany’s two main thoroughfares. Two stories with blackout windows and a box office from when it used to be a movie theater, it was swarmed with people when Dom first spotted it ahead. He was somewhat familiar with it: He passed it every day on his way to work, and it was always busy around his time of evening, even on weeknights. Part of him always wanted to go inside and be a part of the scene, but he never did.
The man in sunglasses - his name was Joe - led Dom toward the club, and even before Joe spoke, Dom somehow knew that it was their destination. “There,” Joe said. “We’ll go around back.”
Dom and Joe had been walking for what seemed like an hour but couldn’t have been more than fifteen minutes. Dom stuck as close to Joe as possible as if for protection, and had become accustomed to his pungent smell. It was noticeable only at extremely close range, part sickly sweet and part…something else, something Dom could not place but still somehow recognized. They were two blocks from the club, maybe three, and Dom could hear the pulsing techo/house/whatever music as clearly as if he were standing in the middle of the dancefloor. He could hear the chatter of the people inside, or at least he imagined he could. He could smell them too: Beneath the odors of perfume, desperation, and spiritual rot was something richer, something blissful. Dom realized for the first time that he was parched - so parched - and drool filled his mouth.
A crowd of people waited outside Club Vlad, talking and laughing; some vaped, some stared down at their cellphones like Gollum with his precious ring. Dom’s first reaction was to avoid them. Perhaps sensing this…or perhaps feeling it himself…Joe ducked into an alleyway two doors down from the club. “We’ll go in the back,” Joe explained.
The back entrance to Club Vlad was a single door underneath a bare bulb. The music was so loud that Dom’s head began to throb. Inside, a dark hallway terminated in an archway filled with throbbing white light. Dread filled Dom as they approached it - he didn’t want to be around people - but thankfully they went into a room off the hall instead. An office. A cramped desk, a filing cabinet. A set of stairs disappeared into shadows.
“Sit,” Joe said.
Dom obeyed, sitting in the swivel chair.
Joe went up the stairs and Dom was alone. The deep coldness that had long settled into his bones made itself known again, and Dom leaned forward, wrapping his arms around his chest for warmth. The muffled music vibrated in his skull, setting his teeth on edge, and the various smells wafting in from the main room assaulted his senses. He was alternately repulsed and aroused by the crashing din of scents: The good, the bad, and the mouth watering. A sharp pain cut through his stomach like the killing edge of a knife, and Dom hugged himself tighter. Had his throat always been this dry? His throat felt like sandpaper; his tongue stuck to the roof of his mouth and getting it unstuck hurt so badly that tears sprang to his eyes.
Dom rubbed his arms with his hands and tried to still his chattering teeth. He looked around for a blanket, a discarded jacket, something to cover himself with, but there was nothing. Only drifts of glitter on the floor and walls. He supposed it came from a party or something. He’d never been to a night club but it seemed fitting.
A sound drew his attention to the door leading back into the hall. A woman - no older than a girl - stood there, looking confused and unsteady. She was dressed in black, wore glow sticks around her wrists and neck, and held a red solo cup. “I have to pee,” she said drunkenly and laughed. “I thought this was the bathroom.”
A cold wind washed over Dom, and Joe was standing next to him. “The bathroom’s up here,” he said.
“Oh, good,” the girl laughed, “I thought it was here but I didn’t know. This is my first time here.” She held her cup aloft. “Take me to it.”
Joe glanced at Dom. “Come on.”
They formed a party as they climbed the stairs, Dom in the tear and Joe at the head. The girl stumbled and held onto the railing, talking incessantly. Her voice hurt Dom’s head, but the hot smell wafting from her was intoxicating. Drool coursed down his chin and his breathing came in short, hot bursts. Another sharp pain rent his stomach, and he winced.
At the top of the stairs, where the lights were cold and white, a woman in black stood by a doorway, her back ramrod straight and her eyes vacant. Her face was gaunt, her white flesh pulled tight across her skull. She wore a black dress and her black hair long and straight. Dom only caught a glance at her before looking away again.
She looked like a ghost.
“Show her the bathroom,” Joe said.
The woman’s eyes slowly, ponderles, went from Joe to the drunk girl. Her expression, like Joe’s, was dead. She had no expression. “This way.”
She and the drunk girl disappeared down the hall, and Joe led Dom into a room. Though it was pitch black, Dom could still see; not very well…but he could see. Suddenly, a blinding white light flicked on in front of him, causing him to stop and fall back a step. Ahead, through an archway, sat a vaulted chamber, at the center of which sat a man. To Dom’s light dazzled eyes, he seemed a proud king perched upon a throne, the skulls of his many enemies piled around him. Dom blinked and turned his head slightly to the side. His eyes began to adjust, and the world came into focus.
The man was not, as it had first seemed, sitting on a throne. Instead, he was esconded in a motorized wheelchair. The piles of skulls were actually various pieces of machinery, the kind you’d find in a hospital room. A clear tube extended from one of them to the side of the man’s neck: Yellow liquid flowed from the machine and into the man. Another tube, this one in the other side of his neck, filtered out a mixture of what looked like yellow pus and black sludge. An infected malodor filled the air, and the machines whirred softly as they worked.
As for the man himself, his appearance was normal at first glance, Dressed in a flowing red velvet robe, a blue and green blanket with a plaid pattern draped over his shoulders, he was portly, about fifty, and had shoulder length grayish hair with a bald spot in the middle. If the local theater put on a production of Hamilton, they could cast a worse Ben Franklin than him.
On closer inspection, he was not normal at all. His complexion was yellow and waxy, like a statue, and his body was lumpy, misshapen, resembling an overfilled trash bag stuffed with cotton. His eyes were sick and yellow, and something about his posture seemed…off. It didn’t make sense, but the only thing Dom could think was: He looks impossible.
Joe stopped at the edge of the shadows, where the line between light and darkness lay. He seemed to stand up a little straighter, a general greeting his king. “Here he is,” Joe said.
The man squinted slightly against the glare of the light and motioned with one gnarled hand. “Step into the light,” he said. His voice was soft and kind, that of a senile though loving grandmother. Dom imagined he felt a pull toward the man, and did as he was bidden, wincing as the light stung his eyes.
For a moment, the man stared at him, his waxen features frozen fast as stone. Then, a subtle look of compassion flickered across his face. Dom did not believe in God, but he suddenly felt like a man standing before God, his every thought, feeling, and transgression laid bare. He had never felt so naked in his life, so exposed. He had the sense that the man before him could see everything, knew everything.
“You’ve been through a lot,” the man said. It was not a question, but a statement.
Everything Dom had been through over the past couple of days came back to him in a rush, and hot tears filled his eyes. He nodded.
The man nodded slightly, more to himself than to Dom. “Kneel down,” he said, “I want to look at you.”
Dom knelt without question.
The man lifted one hand and touched Dom’s face, tilting Dom’s head from one side to the other like a farmer appraising a horse. His fingers were long and bony, his nails ragged and unkempt; his touch was like ice. He brushed his knuckles over the purple bruise on Dom’s cheek, and there was such gentleness in that one act that Dom broke down sobbing. He leaned into the man’s touch like a cat and gave voice to his misery.
“Shhh,” the man said, “it’s all over now.”
“W-What’s happening to me?” Dom asked.
In his heart of hearts, however, he already knew.
“You died,” the man said patiently. “And you came back.”
Hearing it stated so plainly, Dom cried even harder.
“Only a handful of people throughout history can claim to have defeated death,” the man said, stroking Dom’s hair, “and you’re one of them. You should be proud.”
“How?” Dom asked between sobs. “What am I?”
The man stroked Dom’s cheek. “You’re the same thing I am.”
At that, Dom looked up at the man. “What are you?” he asked.
A little, knowing smile touched the man’s lips, and when he spoke, his canine teeth were longer and sharper than before. “I’m a vampire.”
“No,” Dom moaned and shook his head, “no, no, no.” He grabbed the man’s hand and held tight, his tears coming faster. He trembled like a frightened animal and squeezed his eyes closed, as if by doing so he could escape the hell his life had become.
But there was no escape.
“You have a lot of questions,” the man said, monologuing now rather than speaking directly to Dom, “I had the same questions when I was your age. I have spent the last forty-two years of my life trying to answer them, but every answer I find leads me to still more questions. There’s one thing I’m certain of, though.”
Dom blinked the tears from his eyes. The last of them had been squeezed from his dead tear ducts and he had no more to give. He simply stared into space, trying to come to grips with his situation.
“There is freedom in death,” the man said. “Death is easy. It’s simple. Once it’s over, you feel no pain, no sadness, no grief. It’s living that’s hard.”
As he spoke, he brushed his long nails across Dom’s scalp. It was a soothing feeling, and served to calm him. “People have so many troubles.” A note of revulsion crept into his voice. “So many needs, so many desires. People are complex but we’re not. We’re easy to please. A vampire wants only two things: A little blood and one more night.”
The combination of his touch and his voice had pacified Dom to the point of almost tranquility. “I’m scared,” Dom heard himself mumble.
Nodding almost reluctantly, the man said, “Fear is one of the only emotions a vampire can’t escape. Everything feels fear. Do you want to know a secret?”
Dom nodded.
“I’m afraid too,” the man confessed. “I’m afraid of death. Well…death as it were. I’m terrified that my body will rot away and leave me a pile of bones somewhere, unable to move but still aware”
A shudder went through Dom.
“As I’m sure you’ve seen yourself, the movies lied. We rot just like any other dead thing. Our flesh decays, our organs turn to sludge, and we go from rational men to monsters whose only thought is feeding.”
Now it was his turn to shiver.
“But…you’re not like that,: Dom said.’
The man smiled. “I’m lucky, I guess” A thin yellow fluid began to drip from his nostrils. He did not seem to notice. “What is your name?”
“Dominick,” Dom said.
“I’m Merrick,” the man said, “and this is my family.”
Dom realized that they were now surrounded by others, ten in all. They stood ramrod straight, their eyes vacant and their faces devoid of humanity. They were mainly men, though one was a woman. Some were pale, others were blue or black, and one was little more than a skeleton clad in withered brown skin, a white button up and jeans hanging from its frame.
A thought occurred to Dom. “You said my brain was going to rot…”
“Not necessarily,” Merrick cautioned, “though it’s possible.”
“Am I going to be…?”
“Like them?” Merrick asked. “Braindead and staring?”
Sheepishly, Dom nodded.
“Maybe,” Merrick allowed. “But these people are free of everything that troubles humanity. You were human just a short time ago. I’m sure you remember all too well what it was like. The constant politics, the moral quandaries, the philosophical pontificating. Human beings - and make no mistake, we are humans - were not meant for all of that. We’re animals. We were made to hunt, fuck, and sleep. Somewhere along the way, we got pretentious and started complicating things.” He looked at Dom, sizing him up, seeming to read him. “Things that animals take for granted, people work their entire lives to achieve. If an animal wants to fornicate, it fornicates. If a man wants to fornicate, he needs to be tall, handsome, rich, funny, progressive when it suits women but traditional when it doesn’t. If a man wants a home, he has to work thirty years for it. An animal has only to dig a hole in the ground.”
Every word struck a chord with Dom.
Because every word was true.
“Unfortunately, the living won’t allow us to live that freely, so we have to hide. These people here - my children - need a guiding hand, a protector, someone who can lead them. And I, an old man, need help.” Here he smiled playfully and patted his bulging stomach. “My body is mostly sawdust and cotton balls at this point, so I can’t do much. I share my wisdom and my knowledge with them, and they take care of me.”
“Why haven’t you…rotted?” Dom asked.
“Embalming fluid,” Merrick said. “Blood doesn’t sustain you. Embalming fluid does.” He smiled at Dom. “It can sustain you as well. If you’ll stay with us. We’re not the most attractive bunch, but we’re a family, and we really wish you’d join us.”
A family.
Dom’s parents had broken up and he lived with his mother. He had never had a family before, and had always wanted one, a real one, like in the movies. Even as a grown man, he sought the love, acceptance, and belonging that a family brings. He sought it in the wrong ways, but that - and not sex, not romantic love - is what he had really wanted all along.
This is what he had wanted all along.
“I want to,” Dom said.
Working quickly, Merrick slashed his wrist open with his thumbnail. An ugly mixture of stale blood, siphoned from someone else, and embalming fluid leaked out. “If you choose to drink, my blood will be in you. You will be my son and I will be your father. You will obey me as your father. You will do whatever is asked of you for this family, as this family will do for you. You will not reveal the secrets of this family to anyone outside of it. You will protect this family from all threats, both inside and out. Do you accept?”
He held his bleeding wrist out to Dom.
Dom did not question, nor did he hesitate. He grabbed the hand of his father, brought it to his mouth, and drank from the seeping wound. The fluid was cold, thick, and vile.
It tasted like belonging.
“Have you fed yet?”
“No,” Dom said.
“Before you do, I have a question for you. Who did this to you? Who made you?”
Dom thought. Everything was hazy. “Was it someone in this room?” Merrick asked.
Dom shook his head. “Her name is…” he wracked his brain. “Heather.”
Merrick nodded. “So there’s another out there.” He looked at Joe. “Did you turn her?”
“Yes,” Joe said.
Merrick looked annoyed. “I’ve told you not to go out and feed on your own. You have no self-control. You drink too much and create others, which creates headaches for the family. Tomorrow night, I want you and Dom to find her and bring her here.” “Okay,” Joe said.
Merrick looked over Dom’s shoulder. “Jess? Can you come here?”
The black haired woman from earlier came out of the shadows, the drunk girl with her, arms tied behind her back. The girl looked dazed. “Max,” Merrick said to the skeletal corpse-thing, “help her.”
Max, Jessie, and another vampire named Matt tied chains around the girl’s ankles and hoisted her aloft via a pulley system. Upside down, she swung back and forth. Merrick instructed the others to leave the room. “Max,” he said.
On his way out, the corpse-thing produced a knife and dragged it across the girl’s throat, slicing her skin; blood spurted out. Max leaned in to taste it, but Merrick shooed him away. When he and Dom were alone, Merrick told Dom, “Go to her.”
But Dom was already on his feet, his eyes transfixed by the crimson life flowing from her pumping throat. The hot, rich smell filled his nostrils and tantalized his senses. Saliva filled his mouth and his stomach panged with hunger. Some small, human part of his decaying brain screamed at him to stop, but he did not listen to it. He had been human for almost thirty years, and he had been miserable. Now, in this chamber of the undead, he gave himself over to his dark thirst. Like a man in a dream, he shuffled to her, inhaled the sweet scent of her blood, and shivered. He was so lost in lust that he hardly noticed the strange, cumbersome feeling of his descended fangs.
“Drink,” Merrick said.
Opening his mouth wide, Dom sank his teeth into the girl’s neck. Her blood filled his mouth and splashed down his throat. Warmth thawed the ice in his marrow and spread through him. His dead heart began to flutter, then to pound. His knees shook, his body trembled, and his mind rolled away on a tide of ecstasy.
As it was his first meal, he couldn’t drink much. Before long, his stomach was hard and distended and his body burned with fire. He collapsed to a heap on the floor and twitched as random nerve endings, stimulated by the blood, began to misfire. He felt full, warm, and drunk. He closed his eyes and let himself drift.
Dominick Mason had died.
And this…
This was heaven.
***
With all that was happening in the city of Albany, the last thing Bruce Kenner needed on Thursday morning was a visit from Bertha the bitch, but that’s exactly what he got. She flew into his office like she owned the place and instantly started in on him. Young man this and have you talked to Joe Rossi that. You’d think she was his boss. And if she were his boss, he’d quit and find another line of work. He heard McDonald’s was hiring.
Bruce almost snapped at her. He’d been up most of last night riding around Albany and looking for Dominick Mason. He and Vanessa expected him to drop dead somewhere close to the medical examiner’s office, but if he had, he’d done so in a super secret location.
“I’ve been busy,” Bruce said, “but I’m going to go by his place of work today.”
Tired and still confused over that bullshit from last night, he had no energy to argue with the old crone. He could spare a few minutes to talk to Joe Rossi, he figured. He assumed that Jessie was safe but he owed it to her to check. If he found the girl, he’d take her back to her grandmother (sorry, kid, really) and try to avoid arresting the guy. Unless he came off as a creep, then he’d bust his ass. See, people assumed that an older guy with a younger girlfriend was some master manipulator hell bent on evil deeds. Sometimes they were, but hell, his grandparents married when his grandpa was twenty-one and his grandma sixteen. They were married for fifty-five years and loved each other to the end. Maybe it was innocent, maybe not. It wasn’t his job to judge either way. Just gimme the girl so I can get her grandma off my back and no one gets hurt.
“It’s about time you started doing your job,” Bertha said, “I heard on the police scanner last night that you people lost a body. What kind of town is this? Your coroner is a drunk who makes up stories about bodies walking away. He probably sold it to black people.”
Bruce couldn’t help it; he snorted laughter.
“Now what would black people want with a dead body?”
“Probably to use it as a prop in one of their rap videos.”
Bruce didn’t know much about music videos, but he was pretty sure that the people who made them didn’t like the smell of corpse any more than the rest of us. “I’ll be sure to round up all the local rappers for questioning. Is there anything else I can help you with?”
Luckily for him, there was not, and Bertha left shortly thereafter. Alone and able to hear himself think, Bruce sat back in his chair and went over his mental checklist for the day. First order of business, go to Club Vlad. Second, find Dominick Mason. There were others, but that was the most important. He wanted the body found so someone could get to work explaining this whole weird thing. There had to be an explanation. The thought that there wasn’t, that a dead guy literally rose from the grave and disappeared into the night, deeply disturbed Bruce, and the more this whole thing remained ongoing, the more disturbed he would become.
Needing some fresh air, he decided to hit up Club Vlad.
Outside, the day was hot and sunny. Waves of heat shimmered from the pavement and not a single breath of air stirred in the whole world. Bruce slipped on a pair of sunglasses and drove over to Club Vlad. It occurred to him that the place might be closed during the day; it was the only place Joe Rossi was associated with. His address in the computer system was Glens Falls, far to the north. The messages he sent Jessie indicated that he lived onsite at Club Vlad.
The build, wedged between a corner store and a check cashing place, was as grimy and dumpy looking as it had always been. The front windows were blacked out and covered with posters and fliers for punk concerts, house bands, and far left political organizations: The Albany Social Justice Center, something called Bash the Fash 2025, and Bruce’s favorite. ACAB. He caught some kid spraying that on the side of the police station once, and under extreme police torture (ie, a good tongue lashing), the kid told him it meant All Cops Are Barnacleheads.
Bruce shot the kid on the spot and planted a gun on him.
How's that for barnaclehead?
Calm down, he didn’t really do that. He made him clean the graffiti off with a toothbrush. LOL he was out there for hours.
The sidewalk in front of the former theater was empty save for some little. The box office was abandoned. There was no open sigh, but then again, there was no closed sign either. He parked his cruiser at the curb, killed the engine, and got out, sweat instantly springing to his brow.
To his surprise, the door opened. Inside, a couple steps led down to a dance floor. A bar lined the wall to his right, and a couple more sets led up to a railed platform filled with tables. Above, a huge balcony looked down on him. A giant disco ball hung from the ceiling like a pair of glittery nuts and there were cages here and there. Presumably where girls danced go-go style. Oh yeah, nothing hotter than a woman behind bars. Why do you think Bruce became a cop in the first place?
Speaking of glittery nuts, there was glitter everywhere. On the floor, on the tables, on the bar. It twinkled like flecks of diamond and swirled around your feet when you walked. Bruce imagined big buckets of the stuff raining down on the dance floor at midnight and he shuddered. Imagine having glitter stuck in your hair. That shit would never come out.
Music played from the sound system, not as loud as it would be during operating hours. It sounded like ‘80s metal, not exactly what he expected from a place like this.
Some say life she's a lady
Kinda soft, kinda shady
I can tell you life is rich
She's no lady, she's a bitch
Being morning, the place was deserted except for a man behind the bar, busy at cleaning the countertop in anticipation for the night’s events. He was tall, Hispanic or Italian, and feminine, with a single earring and a tank top.
Bruce moseyed over to the bar and the barkeep looked up, missing a beat when he realized the fuzz was here. He sat down his rag and walked over. “Can I help you?” he asked in a whispy voice.
“Yeah,” Bruce said, “I’m looking for Joe Rossi. Is he here?”
“I don’t know,” the bartender said. He looked nervous. “I can check.”
Before Bruce could answer, he scurried off, leaving him alone.
They suck my body out
But friend there is no doubt
I'm gonna pay the devil his dues
Cause I'm sick of being abused
Bruce looked around, his fingers absently drumming on the countertop. Club Vlad was a clashing mix of grunge and glam that made his head hurt. He imagined what the place must be like at midnight, packed and noisy, and nodded to himself. Yeah, this was the spot, he guessed, the place all the cool kids went, if they went anywhere anymore. Hell, if he was thirty years younger, he might come here.
He had been waiting for almost twenty minutes when a voice spoke behind him. He turned with a start, and beheld the strangest man he had ever seen in his life. Short and plump - lumpy, even - he sat in a wheelchair, a red blanket draped over his shoulders and his hands resting on his knees. He was about fifty with sparse gray hair falling to his shoulders and a plastic-looking face. He looked like a wax statue of Ben Franklin come to life, and a deep sense of disquiet stirred in the pit of Bruce’s stomach.
Just can't fight the temptation
It's become my inspiration
Gonna get myself an axe
Break some heads, break some backs
It was only then that Bruce noticed the sickly sweet smell of death.
It seemed to come from the man in waves.
“I didn’t mean to frighten you,” the man said, “my name is Merrick Garvis and I own Club Vlad. Maybe I can be of assistance.”
Bruce grew up in the south where manners and saving face were paramount. His mother and his grandmother both taught him that it was impolite to stare. Maybe he'd been in New York so long that he’d forgotten himself, or maybe Merrick Garvis was just the strangest looking man in the world. Either way, Bruce couldn’t help gaping at his strange appearance. Recovering, he shook his head. “I’m sorry, I -”
Merrick smiled and waved one hand. Why was it so goddamn skeletal? “Don’t worry. I was injured in a fire a long time ago and this is the best they could do for me. To be honest, I’d stare too. What can I help you with, officer?”
“I’d like to talk to Joe Rossi,” Bruce said. “I understand he works for you.”
“He did,” Merrick said, “but I had to let him go. Did he do something wrong?”
Bruce sighed. “Well, yeah, he’s shacked up with a sixteen year old runaway.”
A look of concern crossed Merrick’s features, such as they were. “Oh, my, that is concerning. I haven’t seen him in several days. I assume he went home. He lives in Glens Falls.”
Bruce nodded, his mind working. If Rossi really was in Glens Falls, that meant the whole mess was someone else’s problem. He could send Bertha up there to bother some other poor barnacle head and be rid of her. Yet…he didn’t think Rossi was in Glens Falls. Bruce had a knack for knowing when people were lying, and he was certain that Merrick Garvis was doing just that. It couldn’t be a facial tick, as his features were largely unmoving, like clay. Maybe it was something in his cloudy eyes. Maybe it was the tone of his voice. Or maybe Bruce had the shining and knew things just for the hell of it. In any event, the certainty that Merrick Garvis was lying grew stronger with each passing second.
“Why’d you fire him?”
“He got drunk and hit one of the customers.”
“What did he do?” Bruce asked. “What was his position?”
“He was a bouncer.”
“Aren’t bouncers supposed to hit people?”
Merrick fumbled. “Well…not to punch them in the face for bumping into them.”
“How long did he work for you?”
“Six months.”
“Did you ever see him with an underage girl?”
“Of course not,” Merrick said, “you have to be twenty-one to get in. I make sure everyone’s ID is checked at the door.”
“What if she had a fake ID?”
“Then I guess she’d get in, but I’d assume she was of legal age.”
“You said he shoved someone, when did this happen?”
“Last week,” Merrick said.
“I thought you said he hit someone.”
Merrick again fumbled. “I did.” Now his face seemed to darken a little. A strange yellowish liquid, too thin to be snot, began to drip from his nostrils. Bruce barely suppressed a smear of disgust. “I understand you have a job to do but playing mind games with me isn’t going to solve anything. I can give you his address. Other than that, I can’t help you further.”
“Fair enough,” Bruce said. “But I’d like to see your ID please.”
Merrick glared at him. “I suppose you want my name, rank, and serial number as well.”
“Actually, yeah, I’d love that.”
Merrick drew a deep sigh. “Okay.”
In five minutes, Bruce had Merrick’s ID, social, and all other relevant information. Under normal circumstances, he wouldn’t have bothered, even though he was well within his rights to ask for this information from someone he was questioning. But something about Merrick Garvis was off, and not just his weird face or strangely bulbous body. Bruce was just smart enough to realize that something was going on here, but not quite smart enough to even begin to imagine what.
When he had everything he needed and saw no reason to stick around, Bruce bid Merrick farewell and left the club. Before he could do anything else, he got a call from dispatch: Officer needed assistance in Pine Hills. Bruce slipped behind the wheel and went forth to help, momentarily putting Merrick Garvis out of his mind.
But soon or later, he would get back to him.
Oh yes he would.
submitted by Flagg1991 to Viidith22 [link] [comments]
The man in sunglasses - his name was Joe - led Dom toward the club, and even before Joe spoke, Dom somehow knew that it was their destination. “There,” Joe said. “We’ll go around back.”
Dom and Joe had been walking for what seemed like an hour but couldn’t have been more than fifteen minutes. Dom stuck as close to Joe as possible as if for protection, and had become accustomed to his pungent smell. It was noticeable only at extremely close range, part sickly sweet and part…something else, something Dom could not place but still somehow recognized. They were two blocks from the club, maybe three, and Dom could hear the pulsing techo/house/whatever music as clearly as if he were standing in the middle of the dancefloor. He could hear the chatter of the people inside, or at least he imagined he could. He could smell them too: Beneath the odors of perfume, desperation, and spiritual rot was something richer, something blissful. Dom realized for the first time that he was parched - so parched - and drool filled his mouth.
A crowd of people waited outside Club Vlad, talking and laughing; some vaped, some stared down at their cellphones like Gollum with his precious ring. Dom’s first reaction was to avoid them. Perhaps sensing this…or perhaps feeling it himself…Joe ducked into an alleyway two doors down from the club. “We’ll go in the back,” Joe explained.
The back entrance to Club Vlad was a single door underneath a bare bulb. The music was so loud that Dom’s head began to throb. Inside, a dark hallway terminated in an archway filled with throbbing white light. Dread filled Dom as they approached it - he didn’t want to be around people - but thankfully they went into a room off the hall instead. An office. A cramped desk, a filing cabinet. A set of stairs disappeared into shadows.
“Sit,” Joe said.
Dom obeyed, sitting in the swivel chair.
Joe went up the stairs and Dom was alone. The deep coldness that had long settled into his bones made itself known again, and Dom leaned forward, wrapping his arms around his chest for warmth. The muffled music vibrated in his skull, setting his teeth on edge, and the various smells wafting in from the main room assaulted his senses. He was alternately repulsed and aroused by the crashing din of scents: The good, the bad, and the mouth watering. A sharp pain cut through his stomach like the killing edge of a knife, and Dom hugged himself tighter. Had his throat always been this dry? His throat felt like sandpaper; his tongue stuck to the roof of his mouth and getting it unstuck hurt so badly that tears sprang to his eyes.
Dom rubbed his arms with his hands and tried to still his chattering teeth. He looked around for a blanket, a discarded jacket, something to cover himself with, but there was nothing. Only drifts of glitter on the floor and walls. He supposed it came from a party or something. He’d never been to a night club but it seemed fitting.
A sound drew his attention to the door leading back into the hall. A woman - no older than a girl - stood there, looking confused and unsteady. She was dressed in black, wore glow sticks around her wrists and neck, and held a red solo cup. “I have to pee,” she said drunkenly and laughed. “I thought this was the bathroom.”
A cold wind washed over Dom, and Joe was standing next to him. “The bathroom’s up here,” he said.
“Oh, good,” the girl laughed, “I thought it was here but I didn’t know. This is my first time here.” She held her cup aloft. “Take me to it.”
Joe glanced at Dom. “Come on.”
They formed a party as they climbed the stairs, Dom in the tear and Joe at the head. The girl stumbled and held onto the railing, talking incessantly. Her voice hurt Dom’s head, but the hot smell wafting from her was intoxicating. Drool coursed down his chin and his breathing came in short, hot bursts. Another sharp pain rent his stomach, and he winced.
At the top of the stairs, where the lights were cold and white, a woman in black stood by a doorway, her back ramrod straight and her eyes vacant. Her face was gaunt, her white flesh pulled tight across her skull. She wore a black dress and her black hair long and straight. Dom only caught a glance at her before looking away again.
She looked like a ghost.
“Show her the bathroom,” Joe said.
The woman’s eyes slowly, ponderles, went from Joe to the drunk girl. Her expression, like Joe’s, was dead. She had no expression. “This way.”
She and the drunk girl disappeared down the hall, and Joe led Dom into a room. Though it was pitch black, Dom could still see; not very well…but he could see. Suddenly, a blinding white light flicked on in front of him, causing him to stop and fall back a step. Ahead, through an archway, sat a vaulted chamber, at the center of which sat a man. To Dom’s light dazzled eyes, he seemed a proud king perched upon a throne, the skulls of his many enemies piled around him. Dom blinked and turned his head slightly to the side. His eyes began to adjust, and the world came into focus.
The man was not, as it had first seemed, sitting on a throne. Instead, he was esconded in a motorized wheelchair. The piles of skulls were actually various pieces of machinery, the kind you’d find in a hospital room. A clear tube extended from one of them to the side of the man’s neck: Yellow liquid flowed from the machine and into the man. Another tube, this one in the other side of his neck, filtered out a mixture of what looked like yellow pus and black sludge. An infected malodor filled the air, and the machines whirred softly as they worked.
As for the man himself, his appearance was normal at first glance, Dressed in a flowing red velvet robe, a blue and green blanket with a plaid pattern draped over his shoulders, he was portly, about fifty, and had shoulder length grayish hair with a bald spot in the middle. If the local theater put on a production of Hamilton, they could cast a worse Ben Franklin than him.
On closer inspection, he was not normal at all. His complexion was yellow and waxy, like a statue, and his body was lumpy, misshapen, resembling an overfilled trash bag stuffed with cotton. His eyes were sick and yellow, and something about his posture seemed…off. It didn’t make sense, but the only thing Dom could think was: He looks impossible.
Joe stopped at the edge of the shadows, where the line between light and darkness lay. He seemed to stand up a little straighter, a general greeting his king. “Here he is,” Joe said.
The man squinted slightly against the glare of the light and motioned with one gnarled hand. “Step into the light,” he said. His voice was soft and kind, that of a senile though loving grandmother. Dom imagined he felt a pull toward the man, and did as he was bidden, wincing as the light stung his eyes.
For a moment, the man stared at him, his waxen features frozen fast as stone. Then, a subtle look of compassion flickered across his face. Dom did not believe in God, but he suddenly felt like a man standing before God, his every thought, feeling, and transgression laid bare. He had never felt so naked in his life, so exposed. He had the sense that the man before him could see everything, knew everything.
“You’ve been through a lot,” the man said. It was not a question, but a statement.
Everything Dom had been through over the past couple of days came back to him in a rush, and hot tears filled his eyes. He nodded.
The man nodded slightly, more to himself than to Dom. “Kneel down,” he said, “I want to look at you.”
Dom knelt without question.
The man lifted one hand and touched Dom’s face, tilting Dom’s head from one side to the other like a farmer appraising a horse. His fingers were long and bony, his nails ragged and unkempt; his touch was like ice. He brushed his knuckles over the purple bruise on Dom’s cheek, and there was such gentleness in that one act that Dom broke down sobbing. He leaned into the man’s touch like a cat and gave voice to his misery.
“Shhh,” the man said, “it’s all over now.”
“W-What’s happening to me?” Dom asked.
In his heart of hearts, however, he already knew.
“You died,” the man said patiently. “And you came back.”
Hearing it stated so plainly, Dom cried even harder.
“Only a handful of people throughout history can claim to have defeated death,” the man said, stroking Dom’s hair, “and you’re one of them. You should be proud.”
“How?” Dom asked between sobs. “What am I?”
The man stroked Dom’s cheek. “You’re the same thing I am.”
At that, Dom looked up at the man. “What are you?” he asked.
A little, knowing smile touched the man’s lips, and when he spoke, his canine teeth were longer and sharper than before. “I’m a vampire.”
“No,” Dom moaned and shook his head, “no, no, no.” He grabbed the man’s hand and held tight, his tears coming faster. He trembled like a frightened animal and squeezed his eyes closed, as if by doing so he could escape the hell his life had become.
But there was no escape.
“You have a lot of questions,” the man said, monologuing now rather than speaking directly to Dom, “I had the same questions when I was your age. I have spent the last forty-two years of my life trying to answer them, but every answer I find leads me to still more questions. There’s one thing I’m certain of, though.”
Dom blinked the tears from his eyes. The last of them had been squeezed from his dead tear ducts and he had no more to give. He simply stared into space, trying to come to grips with his situation.
“There is freedom in death,” the man said. “Death is easy. It’s simple. Once it’s over, you feel no pain, no sadness, no grief. It’s living that’s hard.”
As he spoke, he brushed his long nails across Dom’s scalp. It was a soothing feeling, and served to calm him. “People have so many troubles.” A note of revulsion crept into his voice. “So many needs, so many desires. People are complex but we’re not. We’re easy to please. A vampire wants only two things: A little blood and one more night.”
The combination of his touch and his voice had pacified Dom to the point of almost tranquility. “I’m scared,” Dom heard himself mumble.
Nodding almost reluctantly, the man said, “Fear is one of the only emotions a vampire can’t escape. Everything feels fear. Do you want to know a secret?”
Dom nodded.
“I’m afraid too,” the man confessed. “I’m afraid of death. Well…death as it were. I’m terrified that my body will rot away and leave me a pile of bones somewhere, unable to move but still aware”
A shudder went through Dom.
“As I’m sure you’ve seen yourself, the movies lied. We rot just like any other dead thing. Our flesh decays, our organs turn to sludge, and we go from rational men to monsters whose only thought is feeding.”
Now it was his turn to shiver.
“But…you’re not like that,: Dom said.’
The man smiled. “I’m lucky, I guess” A thin yellow fluid began to drip from his nostrils. He did not seem to notice. “What is your name?”
“Dominick,” Dom said.
“I’m Merrick,” the man said, “and this is my family.”
Dom realized that they were now surrounded by others, ten in all. They stood ramrod straight, their eyes vacant and their faces devoid of humanity. They were mainly men, though one was a woman. Some were pale, others were blue or black, and one was little more than a skeleton clad in withered brown skin, a white button up and jeans hanging from its frame.
A thought occurred to Dom. “You said my brain was going to rot…”
“Not necessarily,” Merrick cautioned, “though it’s possible.”
“Am I going to be…?”
“Like them?” Merrick asked. “Braindead and staring?”
Sheepishly, Dom nodded.
“Maybe,” Merrick allowed. “But these people are free of everything that troubles humanity. You were human just a short time ago. I’m sure you remember all too well what it was like. The constant politics, the moral quandaries, the philosophical pontificating. Human beings - and make no mistake, we are humans - were not meant for all of that. We’re animals. We were made to hunt, fuck, and sleep. Somewhere along the way, we got pretentious and started complicating things.” He looked at Dom, sizing him up, seeming to read him. “Things that animals take for granted, people work their entire lives to achieve. If an animal wants to fornicate, it fornicates. If a man wants to fornicate, he needs to be tall, handsome, rich, funny, progressive when it suits women but traditional when it doesn’t. If a man wants a home, he has to work thirty years for it. An animal has only to dig a hole in the ground.”
Every word struck a chord with Dom.
Because every word was true.
“Unfortunately, the living won’t allow us to live that freely, so we have to hide. These people here - my children - need a guiding hand, a protector, someone who can lead them. And I, an old man, need help.” Here he smiled playfully and patted his bulging stomach. “My body is mostly sawdust and cotton balls at this point, so I can’t do much. I share my wisdom and my knowledge with them, and they take care of me.”
“Why haven’t you…rotted?” Dom asked.
“Embalming fluid,” Merrick said. “Blood doesn’t sustain you. Embalming fluid does.” He smiled at Dom. “It can sustain you as well. If you’ll stay with us. We’re not the most attractive bunch, but we’re a family, and we really wish you’d join us.”
A family.
Dom’s parents had broken up and he lived with his mother. He had never had a family before, and had always wanted one, a real one, like in the movies. Even as a grown man, he sought the love, acceptance, and belonging that a family brings. He sought it in the wrong ways, but that - and not sex, not romantic love - is what he had really wanted all along.
This is what he had wanted all along.
“I want to,” Dom said.
Working quickly, Merrick slashed his wrist open with his thumbnail. An ugly mixture of stale blood, siphoned from someone else, and embalming fluid leaked out. “If you choose to drink, my blood will be in you. You will be my son and I will be your father. You will obey me as your father. You will do whatever is asked of you for this family, as this family will do for you. You will not reveal the secrets of this family to anyone outside of it. You will protect this family from all threats, both inside and out. Do you accept?”
He held his bleeding wrist out to Dom.
Dom did not question, nor did he hesitate. He grabbed the hand of his father, brought it to his mouth, and drank from the seeping wound. The fluid was cold, thick, and vile.
It tasted like belonging.
“Have you fed yet?”
“No,” Dom said.
“Before you do, I have a question for you. Who did this to you? Who made you?”
Dom thought. Everything was hazy. “Was it someone in this room?” Merrick asked.
Dom shook his head. “Her name is…” he wracked his brain. “Heather.”
Merrick nodded. “So there’s another out there.” He looked at Joe. “Did you turn her?”
“Yes,” Joe said.
Merrick looked annoyed. “I’ve told you not to go out and feed on your own. You have no self-control. You drink too much and create others, which creates headaches for the family. Tomorrow night, I want you and Dom to find her and bring her here.” “Okay,” Joe said.
Merrick looked over Dom’s shoulder. “Jess? Can you come here?”
The black haired woman from earlier came out of the shadows, the drunk girl with her, arms tied behind her back. The girl looked dazed. “Max,” Merrick said to the skeletal corpse-thing, “help her.”
Max, Jessie, and another vampire named Matt tied chains around the girl’s ankles and hoisted her aloft via a pulley system. Upside down, she swung back and forth. Merrick instructed the others to leave the room. “Max,” he said.
On his way out, the corpse-thing produced a knife and dragged it across the girl’s throat, slicing her skin; blood spurted out. Max leaned in to taste it, but Merrick shooed him away. When he and Dom were alone, Merrick told Dom, “Go to her.”
But Dom was already on his feet, his eyes transfixed by the crimson life flowing from her pumping throat. The hot, rich smell filled his nostrils and tantalized his senses. Saliva filled his mouth and his stomach panged with hunger. Some small, human part of his decaying brain screamed at him to stop, but he did not listen to it. He had been human for almost thirty years, and he had been miserable. Now, in this chamber of the undead, he gave himself over to his dark thirst. Like a man in a dream, he shuffled to her, inhaled the sweet scent of her blood, and shivered. He was so lost in lust that he hardly noticed the strange, cumbersome feeling of his descended fangs.
“Drink,” Merrick said.
Opening his mouth wide, Dom sank his teeth into the girl’s neck. Her blood filled his mouth and splashed down his throat. Warmth thawed the ice in his marrow and spread through him. His dead heart began to flutter, then to pound. His knees shook, his body trembled, and his mind rolled away on a tide of ecstasy.
As it was his first meal, he couldn’t drink much. Before long, his stomach was hard and distended and his body burned with fire. He collapsed to a heap on the floor and twitched as random nerve endings, stimulated by the blood, began to misfire. He felt full, warm, and drunk. He closed his eyes and let himself drift.
Dominick Mason had died.
And this…
This was heaven.
***
With all that was happening in the city of Albany, the last thing Bruce Kenner needed on Thursday morning was a visit from Bertha the bitch, but that’s exactly what he got. She flew into his office like she owned the place and instantly started in on him. Young man this and have you talked to Joe Rossi that. You’d think she was his boss. And if she were his boss, he’d quit and find another line of work. He heard McDonald’s was hiring.
Bruce almost snapped at her. He’d been up most of last night riding around Albany and looking for Dominick Mason. He and Vanessa expected him to drop dead somewhere close to the medical examiner’s office, but if he had, he’d done so in a super secret location.
“I’ve been busy,” Bruce said, “but I’m going to go by his place of work today.”
Tired and still confused over that bullshit from last night, he had no energy to argue with the old crone. He could spare a few minutes to talk to Joe Rossi, he figured. He assumed that Jessie was safe but he owed it to her to check. If he found the girl, he’d take her back to her grandmother (sorry, kid, really) and try to avoid arresting the guy. Unless he came off as a creep, then he’d bust his ass. See, people assumed that an older guy with a younger girlfriend was some master manipulator hell bent on evil deeds. Sometimes they were, but hell, his grandparents married when his grandpa was twenty-one and his grandma sixteen. They were married for fifty-five years and loved each other to the end. Maybe it was innocent, maybe not. It wasn’t his job to judge either way. Just gimme the girl so I can get her grandma off my back and no one gets hurt.
“It’s about time you started doing your job,” Bertha said, “I heard on the police scanner last night that you people lost a body. What kind of town is this? Your coroner is a drunk who makes up stories about bodies walking away. He probably sold it to black people.”
Bruce couldn’t help it; he snorted laughter.
“Now what would black people want with a dead body?”
“Probably to use it as a prop in one of their rap videos.”
Bruce didn’t know much about music videos, but he was pretty sure that the people who made them didn’t like the smell of corpse any more than the rest of us. “I’ll be sure to round up all the local rappers for questioning. Is there anything else I can help you with?”
Luckily for him, there was not, and Bertha left shortly thereafter. Alone and able to hear himself think, Bruce sat back in his chair and went over his mental checklist for the day. First order of business, go to Club Vlad. Second, find Dominick Mason. There were others, but that was the most important. He wanted the body found so someone could get to work explaining this whole weird thing. There had to be an explanation. The thought that there wasn’t, that a dead guy literally rose from the grave and disappeared into the night, deeply disturbed Bruce, and the more this whole thing remained ongoing, the more disturbed he would become.
Needing some fresh air, he decided to hit up Club Vlad.
Outside, the day was hot and sunny. Waves of heat shimmered from the pavement and not a single breath of air stirred in the whole world. Bruce slipped on a pair of sunglasses and drove over to Club Vlad. It occurred to him that the place might be closed during the day; it was the only place Joe Rossi was associated with. His address in the computer system was Glens Falls, far to the north. The messages he sent Jessie indicated that he lived onsite at Club Vlad.
The build, wedged between a corner store and a check cashing place, was as grimy and dumpy looking as it had always been. The front windows were blacked out and covered with posters and fliers for punk concerts, house bands, and far left political organizations: The Albany Social Justice Center, something called Bash the Fash 2025, and Bruce’s favorite. ACAB. He caught some kid spraying that on the side of the police station once, and under extreme police torture (ie, a good tongue lashing), the kid told him it meant All Cops Are Barnacleheads.
Bruce shot the kid on the spot and planted a gun on him.
How's that for barnaclehead?
Calm down, he didn’t really do that. He made him clean the graffiti off with a toothbrush. LOL he was out there for hours.
The sidewalk in front of the former theater was empty save for some little. The box office was abandoned. There was no open sigh, but then again, there was no closed sign either. He parked his cruiser at the curb, killed the engine, and got out, sweat instantly springing to his brow.
To his surprise, the door opened. Inside, a couple steps led down to a dance floor. A bar lined the wall to his right, and a couple more sets led up to a railed platform filled with tables. Above, a huge balcony looked down on him. A giant disco ball hung from the ceiling like a pair of glittery nuts and there were cages here and there. Presumably where girls danced go-go style. Oh yeah, nothing hotter than a woman behind bars. Why do you think Bruce became a cop in the first place?
Speaking of glittery nuts, there was glitter everywhere. On the floor, on the tables, on the bar. It twinkled like flecks of diamond and swirled around your feet when you walked. Bruce imagined big buckets of the stuff raining down on the dance floor at midnight and he shuddered. Imagine having glitter stuck in your hair. That shit would never come out.
Music played from the sound system, not as loud as it would be during operating hours. It sounded like ‘80s metal, not exactly what he expected from a place like this.
Some say life she's a lady
Kinda soft, kinda shady
I can tell you life is rich
She's no lady, she's a bitch
Being morning, the place was deserted except for a man behind the bar, busy at cleaning the countertop in anticipation for the night’s events. He was tall, Hispanic or Italian, and feminine, with a single earring and a tank top.
Bruce moseyed over to the bar and the barkeep looked up, missing a beat when he realized the fuzz was here. He sat down his rag and walked over. “Can I help you?” he asked in a whispy voice.
“Yeah,” Bruce said, “I’m looking for Joe Rossi. Is he here?”
“I don’t know,” the bartender said. He looked nervous. “I can check.”
Before Bruce could answer, he scurried off, leaving him alone.
They suck my body out
But friend there is no doubt
I'm gonna pay the devil his dues
Cause I'm sick of being abused
Bruce looked around, his fingers absently drumming on the countertop. Club Vlad was a clashing mix of grunge and glam that made his head hurt. He imagined what the place must be like at midnight, packed and noisy, and nodded to himself. Yeah, this was the spot, he guessed, the place all the cool kids went, if they went anywhere anymore. Hell, if he was thirty years younger, he might come here.
He had been waiting for almost twenty minutes when a voice spoke behind him. He turned with a start, and beheld the strangest man he had ever seen in his life. Short and plump - lumpy, even - he sat in a wheelchair, a red blanket draped over his shoulders and his hands resting on his knees. He was about fifty with sparse gray hair falling to his shoulders and a plastic-looking face. He looked like a wax statue of Ben Franklin come to life, and a deep sense of disquiet stirred in the pit of Bruce’s stomach.
Just can't fight the temptation
It's become my inspiration
Gonna get myself an axe
Break some heads, break some backs
It was only then that Bruce noticed the sickly sweet smell of death.
It seemed to come from the man in waves.
“I didn’t mean to frighten you,” the man said, “my name is Merrick Garvis and I own Club Vlad. Maybe I can be of assistance.”
Bruce grew up in the south where manners and saving face were paramount. His mother and his grandmother both taught him that it was impolite to stare. Maybe he'd been in New York so long that he’d forgotten himself, or maybe Merrick Garvis was just the strangest looking man in the world. Either way, Bruce couldn’t help gaping at his strange appearance. Recovering, he shook his head. “I’m sorry, I -”
Merrick smiled and waved one hand. Why was it so goddamn skeletal? “Don’t worry. I was injured in a fire a long time ago and this is the best they could do for me. To be honest, I’d stare too. What can I help you with, officer?”
“I’d like to talk to Joe Rossi,” Bruce said. “I understand he works for you.”
“He did,” Merrick said, “but I had to let him go. Did he do something wrong?”
Bruce sighed. “Well, yeah, he’s shacked up with a sixteen year old runaway.”
A look of concern crossed Merrick’s features, such as they were. “Oh, my, that is concerning. I haven’t seen him in several days. I assume he went home. He lives in Glens Falls.”
Bruce nodded, his mind working. If Rossi really was in Glens Falls, that meant the whole mess was someone else’s problem. He could send Bertha up there to bother some other poor barnacle head and be rid of her. Yet…he didn’t think Rossi was in Glens Falls. Bruce had a knack for knowing when people were lying, and he was certain that Merrick Garvis was doing just that. It couldn’t be a facial tick, as his features were largely unmoving, like clay. Maybe it was something in his cloudy eyes. Maybe it was the tone of his voice. Or maybe Bruce had the shining and knew things just for the hell of it. In any event, the certainty that Merrick Garvis was lying grew stronger with each passing second.
“Why’d you fire him?”
“He got drunk and hit one of the customers.”
“What did he do?” Bruce asked. “What was his position?”
“He was a bouncer.”
“Aren’t bouncers supposed to hit people?”
Merrick fumbled. “Well…not to punch them in the face for bumping into them.”
“How long did he work for you?”
“Six months.”
“Did you ever see him with an underage girl?”
“Of course not,” Merrick said, “you have to be twenty-one to get in. I make sure everyone’s ID is checked at the door.”
“What if she had a fake ID?”
“Then I guess she’d get in, but I’d assume she was of legal age.”
“You said he shoved someone, when did this happen?”
“Last week,” Merrick said.
“I thought you said he hit someone.”
Merrick again fumbled. “I did.” Now his face seemed to darken a little. A strange yellowish liquid, too thin to be snot, began to drip from his nostrils. Bruce barely suppressed a smear of disgust. “I understand you have a job to do but playing mind games with me isn’t going to solve anything. I can give you his address. Other than that, I can’t help you further.”
“Fair enough,” Bruce said. “But I’d like to see your ID please.”
Merrick glared at him. “I suppose you want my name, rank, and serial number as well.”
“Actually, yeah, I’d love that.”
Merrick drew a deep sigh. “Okay.”
In five minutes, Bruce had Merrick’s ID, social, and all other relevant information. Under normal circumstances, he wouldn’t have bothered, even though he was well within his rights to ask for this information from someone he was questioning. But something about Merrick Garvis was off, and not just his weird face or strangely bulbous body. Bruce was just smart enough to realize that something was going on here, but not quite smart enough to even begin to imagine what.
When he had everything he needed and saw no reason to stick around, Bruce bid Merrick farewell and left the club. Before he could do anything else, he got a call from dispatch: Officer needed assistance in Pine Hills. Bruce slipped behind the wheel and went forth to help, momentarily putting Merrick Garvis out of his mind.
But soon or later, he would get back to him.
Oh yes he would.
2024.05.03 11:48 Witty_Trash9357 Navigating Opportunities: Global Small Marine Engines Market Analysis
Overview and Scope The small marine engines refer to any nonroad engines that is or will be put on a marine vessel that is small in size and is referred to as a marine engines. This only applies to mobile auxiliary marine engines if the vessel also houses the engines's fueling, cooling, and exhaust systems.
Sizing and Forecast The small marine engines market size has grown strongly in recent years. It will grow from $7.9 billion in 2023 to $8.39 billion in 2024 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3%. The growth in the historic period can be attributed to increased leisure travel, government regulations, replacement market, boat manufacturing trends, economic prosperity, innovation in fuel efficiency..
The small marine engines market size is expected to see strong growth in the next few years. It will grow to $10.51 billion in 2028 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8%. The growth in the forecast period can be attributed to rising disposable income, shift towards electric propulsion, global expansion of fishing industry, environmental sustainability, urbanization and marina development, climate change impact.. Major trends in the forecast period include integration of advanced technologies, rising popularity of electric propulsion, market consolidation and strategic alliances, global economic factors, customization and personalization..
To access more details regarding this report, visit the link: https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/small-marine-engines-global-market-report
Segmentation & Regional Insights The small marine engines market covered in this report is segmented –
1) By Model: Gasoline, Diesel, Electric 2) By Displacement: Up to 2 L, 2-4 L, 4-6 L 3) By Placement: Outboard, Inboard, Other Placements 4) By Application: Recreational Boats, Support Vessels, Coastal Boats, Fishing Boats, Other Applications
North America was the largest region in the small marine engines market in 2023. Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the small marine engines market report during the forecast period. The regions covered in the small marine engines market report are Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East, Africa.
Intrigued to explore the contents? Secure your hands-on sample copy of the report: https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/sample.aspx?id=7944&type=smp
Major Driver Impacting Market Growth Increasing fishing activity is expected to propel the small marine engines market going forward. Any activity directly connected to the capture or processing of fish or shellfish for initial commercial sale or personal dietary needs is referred to as fishing. The use of outboard engines will be aided by the rising sales of small and medium-sized boats for fishing and leisure purposes. For instance, according to a report by fishing daily, an Ireland-based news website for the Irish and UK fishing industries, in 2021 there was an 11% rise in sea fish and shellfish landings, with a real increase of £54 million ($ 52.02 million) and a real increase of 38 thousand tonnes. Also, fishing vessels registered in Scotland landed 437 thousand tonnes of sea fish and shellfish worth £542 million ($52.50 million) in 2021. Therefore, increasing fishing activity is driving demand for the small marine engines market.
Key Industry Players Major companies operating in the small marine engines market report are Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd., Yanmar Marine International B.V., Brunswick Corporation, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Honda Motor Co. Ltd., Alcatel-Lucent SA, AT&T Inc., Commscope Inc., Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, Verizon Communications Inc., Anixter International Inc., Cobham Limited, Corning Incorporated, TE Connectivity Limited, Harris Communications, Nokia Corporation, Belkin International, Cisco Systems Inc., Belden Incorporated, Nexans SA, Amphenol Corporation, Caterpillar Inc., Cummins Inc., Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. Ltd, MAN Energy Solutions, Mercury Marine, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd, Rolls Royce plc, Volvo Penta of the Americas Inc., Wärtsilä Corporation, Greaves Cotton Limited
The small marine engines market report table of contents includes:
https://topprnews.com/pipeline-integrity-management-market-size/ https://topprnews.com/power-distribution-unit-market-growth/ https://topprnews.com/protective-packaging-market-forecast/ https://topprnews.com/remote-weapon-station-industry/https://goodprnews.com/pipeline-integrity-management-market-opportunities/ https://goodprnews.com/power-distribution-unit-market-size/ https://goodprnews.com/protective-packaging-industry/ https://goodprnews.com/remote-weapon-station-market-landscape/
Explore the trending research reports from TBRC:
Contact Us: The Business Research Company Europe: +44 207 1930 708 Asia: +91 88972 63534 Americas: +1 315 623 0293 Email: [info@tbrc.info](mailto:info@tbrc.info)
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submitted by Witty_Trash9357 to u/Witty_Trash9357 [link] [comments]
Sizing and Forecast The small marine engines market size has grown strongly in recent years. It will grow from $7.9 billion in 2023 to $8.39 billion in 2024 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3%. The growth in the historic period can be attributed to increased leisure travel, government regulations, replacement market, boat manufacturing trends, economic prosperity, innovation in fuel efficiency..
The small marine engines market size is expected to see strong growth in the next few years. It will grow to $10.51 billion in 2028 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8%. The growth in the forecast period can be attributed to rising disposable income, shift towards electric propulsion, global expansion of fishing industry, environmental sustainability, urbanization and marina development, climate change impact.. Major trends in the forecast period include integration of advanced technologies, rising popularity of electric propulsion, market consolidation and strategic alliances, global economic factors, customization and personalization..
To access more details regarding this report, visit the link: https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/small-marine-engines-global-market-report
Segmentation & Regional Insights The small marine engines market covered in this report is segmented –
1) By Model: Gasoline, Diesel, Electric 2) By Displacement: Up to 2 L, 2-4 L, 4-6 L 3) By Placement: Outboard, Inboard, Other Placements 4) By Application: Recreational Boats, Support Vessels, Coastal Boats, Fishing Boats, Other Applications
North America was the largest region in the small marine engines market in 2023. Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the small marine engines market report during the forecast period. The regions covered in the small marine engines market report are Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East, Africa.
Intrigued to explore the contents? Secure your hands-on sample copy of the report: https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/sample.aspx?id=7944&type=smp
Major Driver Impacting Market Growth Increasing fishing activity is expected to propel the small marine engines market going forward. Any activity directly connected to the capture or processing of fish or shellfish for initial commercial sale or personal dietary needs is referred to as fishing. The use of outboard engines will be aided by the rising sales of small and medium-sized boats for fishing and leisure purposes. For instance, according to a report by fishing daily, an Ireland-based news website for the Irish and UK fishing industries, in 2021 there was an 11% rise in sea fish and shellfish landings, with a real increase of £54 million ($ 52.02 million) and a real increase of 38 thousand tonnes. Also, fishing vessels registered in Scotland landed 437 thousand tonnes of sea fish and shellfish worth £542 million ($52.50 million) in 2021. Therefore, increasing fishing activity is driving demand for the small marine engines market.
Key Industry Players Major companies operating in the small marine engines market report are Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd., Yanmar Marine International B.V., Brunswick Corporation, Suzuki Motor Corporation, Honda Motor Co. Ltd., Alcatel-Lucent SA, AT&T Inc., Commscope Inc., Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, Verizon Communications Inc., Anixter International Inc., Cobham Limited, Corning Incorporated, TE Connectivity Limited, Harris Communications, Nokia Corporation, Belkin International, Cisco Systems Inc., Belden Incorporated, Nexans SA, Amphenol Corporation, Caterpillar Inc., Cummins Inc., Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. Ltd, MAN Energy Solutions, Mercury Marine, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd, Rolls Royce plc, Volvo Penta of the Americas Inc., Wärtsilä Corporation, Greaves Cotton Limited
The small marine engines market report table of contents includes:
- Executive Summary
- Market Characteristics
- Market Trends And Strategies
- Impact Of COVID-19
- Market Size And Growth
- Segmentation
- Regional And Country Analysis . . .
- Competitive Landscape And Company Profiles
- Key Mergers And Acquisitions
- Future Outlook and Potential Analysis
https://topprnews.com/pipeline-integrity-management-market-size/ https://topprnews.com/power-distribution-unit-market-growth/ https://topprnews.com/protective-packaging-market-forecast/ https://topprnews.com/remote-weapon-station-industry/https://goodprnews.com/pipeline-integrity-management-market-opportunities/ https://goodprnews.com/power-distribution-unit-market-size/ https://goodprnews.com/protective-packaging-industry/ https://goodprnews.com/remote-weapon-station-market-landscape/
Explore the trending research reports from TBRC:
Contact Us: The Business Research Company Europe: +44 207 1930 708 Asia: +91 88972 63534 Americas: +1 315 623 0293 Email: [info@tbrc.info](mailto:info@tbrc.info)
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2024.04.28 07:19 toptrool innocent babies shouldn't be killed because of fairy tale beliefs
abortion advocates often try to add a veneer of scientific literacy and legitimacy to their arguments by asserting that consciousness is what makes a person. however, from what i have observed, they can't even define consciousness, let alone explain why it is a defining characteristic of a person.
more often than not, their views are grounded in conceptual confusions. i always found it incoherent that they value consciousness, but not the being that is conscious. but as it turns out, many of them don't believe that the unborn child is the one and the same entity that later becomes conscious. for example, they'll claim that they are a "mind" and not an organism (e.g., a human being), and that abortion isn't actually killing "someone," but rather it's just killing a clump of cells that will later become inhabited by "someone," i.e., that the body is simply a "vessel" for the person that later emerges. similarly, they argue that impairing a fetus is wrong only because it affects a future being, which they identify as the person. perhaps this is a comforting lie that abortion advocates like to tell themselves in order to justify the killing of unborn children ("we're not really killing anyone, it's just flesh and bones!").
the existence of another being co-located with each human animal would be a remarkable discovery in all of science and natural history. but what exactly is the evidence for this? it's all unsubstantiated. over 100 billion humans have lived and died on earth, yet no one has documented any evidence of another material being with us apart from the human animal itself. and if the being is immaterial, who's to say that the being wasn't there from the moment of conception, just in a latent form?
these views can rightly be called fairy tales because, in addition to them being unsubstantiated, those who hold such beliefs think persons like them are special and for some reason they cannot be something as crude as animals. but the truth is that we are bodily beings. to deny that we are animals is to deny several empirical findings in biology, including evolution. the empirical sciences tell us that we descended from animals, and that we are animals. why should anyone reject this? has there been an astonishing new finding contradicting evolutionary theory that we are not aware of? they want to us to believe that the human being (an animal) that has all the sense organs (eyes, ears, brain, etc.) is not the actual being that is conscious and senses the environment around him. rather, it is another being, the "person," who comes into existence at the onset of consciousness, that is conscious. you see, forget evolutionary theory! the human animal has no use of its sense organs, for it is the magical person that is the one who actually senses what is around him!
the idea that a second being, the "person," comes into existence at the onset of consciousness is no different than various "ensoulment" arguments offered by the clergy. the only difference is that an omnipotent god laser beaming a soul into a soulless body has more explanatory power than a second being coming into existence once the fetus gains the capacity for mental acts. and isn't it interesting that many of those who hold such fairy tale/unsubstantiated beliefs about a "second being" are often subscribed to various "atheism rules!" blogs? those that are embarrassed by the notion of a soul instead have replaced the clergy's argument for ensoulment with the sophist's consciousness argument: that our bodies are simply vegetables, or "vessels," for the real us, the person, to inhabit. call this view "emergent dualism"—that the person "emerges" once the body, which is separate from the person, gains the capacity for consciousness. unfortunately for abortion advocates that try this sophistry, mind/body dualism is just as much derided as the concept of soul in philosophical and neuroscience circles and ridiculed as the belief that we are little persons that control and ride around in animal bodies.
it should not lost on us that abortion advocates want to impose their fairy tale beliefs on the unborn. nonetheless, if we are to persuade people to stop killing innocent babies, we need to clear up the conceptual confusions in matters related to personal identity.
this conceptual confusion is compounded by another conceptual confusion: equating persistent/chronic vegetative state with brain death. chronic vegetative state is a consciousness disorder. you can have repeated instances of consciousness disorders (e.g., becoming unconscious for extended periods of time after multiple different traumatic brain injuries), but that would not be brain death, which entails the irreversible cessation of all brain activities, not just the cessation of brain activities related to consciousness.
because low information debaters confuse a conscious being with the person, they often conflate total brain failure (i.e., brain death) with what they call "higher brain death," or loss of consciousness in general. this idea is based not only on more conceptual confusions, but also on scientific illiteracy. the "higher" part refers to the upper brain, the cerebrum, which they incorrectly believe is the "seat of consciousness." the cerebrum is responsible for many of our advanced cognitive abilities (self-reflective awareness, thinking, etc.), but not all of our mental activities. the brain stem (the lower part of the brain, and perhaps the most important part) has been shown to regulate our consciousness and emotions, and likely our senses too. studies of humans born without their "upper brains" show that they are very much conscious and alive. but to return to the confusion, they believe that the animal can be kept alive with a minimal functioning brain stem that regulates the autonomic nervous system, which can keep the cardiovascular and respiratory systems functioning, but the person is gone after the loss of consciousness.
the "higher brain death" criteria is not taken seriously by anyone other than low information philosophers. scientists and physicians and, more importantly, legal jurisdictions, all use the whole brain death criteria, i.e., total brain failure. the whole brain death is a more refined criteria since it involves total brain failure, including failure of the brainstem. this is what all medical practitioners go by, and, i believe most, if not all, countries use this criteria in their laws. the standard justification given for using total brain failure as a marker of death is due to the loss of the organism's capacity to function in an organized and integrated manner and the loss of its autonomous vital functions. it has nothing to do with the loss of consciousness. total brain failure leads to an irreversible loss of consciousness, but the opposite is not true; loss of consciousness doesn't mean brain death. you can be unconscious for a prolonged period of time and still have a functioning brain for the most part. there are lots of disorders of consciousness, but no actual doctoscientist equates them to brain death.
this conceptual confusion then leads to the sophist's symmetry argument. according to this argument, if our deaths are marked by brain death (which they wrongly equate with loss of consciousness), then the beginning of our lives should be marked by a functioning brain (and by that they wrongly believe the brain's only function is to generate consciousness).
the symmetry argument fails on more than one count. the comparison of the unborn with the braindead is outright silly. brain death entails the irreversible cessation of all brain functions, including functions of the brainstem. that is not the case with the unborn, whose brain is still developing and functioning as it should be. it's the difference between "not yet" and "no more." the immature brain begins to form as early as 3 weeks post-conception (or 5 weeks gestation) and is actively developing in utero. the only true symmetry with the brain death criterion and the beginning of life corresponds with the loss of the organism's capacity for organized and integrated functions—a capacity the organism had since the moment of fertilization. moreover, the unborn child at those early stages is healthy. comparing withdrawing care from a completely healthy child is a completely different matter than withdrawing care from a patient in a chronic vegetative state or a terminally ill patient.
moreover, not everyone accepts the brain death view. neurologist alan shewmon, who is one of most influential critics of "brain death," had observed patients whose bodies were functioning normally even with total brain failure. such patients were exhibiting metabolism, repair, proportionate growth (including "brain dead" children undergoing puberty), etc. he even came across cases of "brain dead" pregnant women who ended up giving birth to live children; but how can someone that is "dead" be capable of giving birth?
shewmon's findings were influential to the white house's council on bioethics, but he still disagrees with the brain death criteria that the council agreed upon because he does not believe the brain is an "integrator" of the human body. shewmon asks us to consider the case of people who who have high cervical spinal cord injuries. they are conscious but cannot control any part of their body because the brain cannot properly send signals to to the rest of the body to make movements. it's essentially as if the brain is "disconnected" from the rest of the body, which shewmon argues is functionally equivalent to a brain dead body under the standard justification of brain death. though the brain is not integrated with the rest of the body, the patient is still clearly alive. so how can one claim that a brain that is unintegrated from the rest of the body be the marker of death?
there is also a big problem diagnosing total brain failure. shewmon pointed out the case of jahi mcmath, who was declared "brain dead" in california after meeting all the diagnostic criteria. her parents, who rejected that diagnosis, took her new jersey, where they were allowed to make religious objections to the brain death determination. they knew their daughter wasn't dead, but seriously incapacitated. later, more neuroscientists (including shewmon) evaluated mcmath and saw that she was in fact minimally responsive despite meeting all the criteria for brain death. mcmath eventually died of liver failure. she was issued two death certificates, one in california in 2013, and another in new jersey in 2018.
but there certainly is debate over this. for a defense of the standard view of total brain failure as a marker of death, neurologist maureen condic has an outstanding article. she argues that what remains after total brain failure is simply coordinated activities between cells and tissues, but no genuine organized organismal integration. condic further argues that the whole brain death criteria meets two conditions that together satisfy the death of a human being: the cessation of autonomous regulation of one's own vital functions (especially cardiorespiratory functions) and the cessation of the one's mental functions. if a patient did not meet both conditions (e.g., a patient who is conscious and kept alive through artificial interventions because of other failing vital functions, or a patient who is unconscious but still has functioning and self-regulating vital functions without the need for artificial interventions such as ventilators), then, it would not be appropriate to declare death.
would shewmon's somatic criteria of death imply that we are obligated to keep patients with total brain failure on life support indefinitely? not at all. the question of whether we can withdraw extraordinary medical interventions from patients is a different question altogether. often times we withdraw such extraordinary medical interventions even from conscious patients. and whether or not one can take someone off life support, e.g., withdraw what may be extraordinary care, is irrelevant to what someone is. you can take a conscious person off life support as well, but that does not tell us anything about the moral status of the person.
well then, whatever happened to that embryo, fetus, or infant? did it perish once the "person" came into existence? it seems silly to suggest that a living thing perishes once it gains the capacity for some mental acts. if the unborn child still exists, then either it must be the one and the same person that you are now, or if it's not, then this implies there are actually two beings seated exactly where you are: the human animal that the embryo matured into, and the person.
suppose for a moment, as peter singer argues, that we are indeed streams of consciousness that flow from one experience to the next. this leads to a glaring circularity issue that joseph butler pointed out back in 1736 when he wrote that "consciousness of personal identity presupposes, and therefore cannot constitute, personal identity, any more than knowledge, in any other case, can constitute truth, which it presupposes."
memories, and conscious experiences in general, presuppose identity, and thus they cannot ground one's identity, as peter singer attempts. conscious experiences are had by the person. a substance first needs to exist in order to have conscious experiences and form memories. what we remember are the experiences that we had, but this already presupposes that we are identical to the person who had those experiences. we could not know whether one's memories are veridical without first establishing that they belong to the very same person who had those experiences. saying you remember being in new york city last week implies that you were in new york city last week, which then implies that you are identical to the person who was in new york city last week. but note that the last part presupposes the very thing being defined: personal identity. as harold noonan notes (in his book "personal identity"), the concept of personal identity is epistemologically prior to that of memory; one can't have the concept of memory without the concept of personal identity. that's what's makes the memory criterion (and the psychological continuity views in general) for personal identity circular and uninformative.
one example that highlights the issue at hand is the case of false memories. suppose one day you wake up with false memories and now think that you fought in the second world war even though you didn't because you weren't even born at that time. on what grounds can we show that these are false memories? we can't know whether or not these memories are genuine unless we first knew that you were in fact the person who fought in the second world war. it is not that you remember fighting in the second world war that makes you the person that fought in the second world war, for you were not physically present then and there to have those conscious experiences. genuine memories presuppose that one who remembers is identical to the one who experienced. you can only genuinely remember fighting in the second world war if you are identical to the person who fought in the second world war.
here are some other examples that highlight the issue at hand and also undermine psychological continuity views in general:
a person who is self-aware is aware of something—himself. there is someone or something that is conscious, thinking, remembering, aware, has memories, and has a mind. there is someone or something that is experiencing, but what exactly is this being? the sensible answer is that the human being that came into existence at the moment of fertilization is the one and same being who is conscious, thinking, remembering, seeing, and feeling, etc. the human being of course has the brain and sense organs necessary to experience the environment around him.
the nonsensical answer given by abortion advocates in order to avoid certain unsavory implications of abortion is that we are not human beings, but instead we are "minds." it should be emphasized that saying "i am a mind" is just as senseless as saying "i am my eyesight" or "i am my ability to think." a mind isn't a conscious agent, but a set of mental faculties and powers. as peter hacker and max bennett note (in their book "philosophical foundations of neuroscience"), a mind does not make up its own mind; a mind does not have a mind of its own. but rather it's the human being that has a mind, perceives, thinks, has desires, makes decisions, and form intentions. the most prominent arguments for mind/body dualism came from rené descartes, who thought that the mind and body were two separate substances. descartes was a brilliant man, to be sure, but he did not have the knowledge that we have now. no contemporary neuroscientist or philosopher considers the mind to be a separate, conscious agent, or as gilbert ryle derisively called it, "the ghost in the machine." unfortunately, descartes' erroneous mind-body dualism is still very much pervasive, and so it too needs to be disentangled.
confusing the mind with the person, or a conscious agent, leads to the belief that there is a homunculus (latin for "little man") in our heads that senses and perceives and controls the body, and that we are this homunculus. are abortion advocates even able explain the physiological processes involved in the creation of this second being, like how we can explain the creation of an organism (e.g., fertilization)? surely they can point to studies about how the brain produces a separate substance—presumably, another material being, since science can only observe and explain the material. or are we supposed to pretend that it's just like the magic we see in harry potter movies?
nonetheless, this view leads to an infinite regress. consider the following:
i) the animal body ("vessel") is necessary to generate consciousness and produce a new being—the person.
ii) we are the person and not the animal.
iii) we are conscious.
iv) but just how can we persons be conscious? how are we able to sense the environment around us? there must be some necessary causal mechanism for persons themselves to be conscious. wouldn't we persons also need bodies of our own, with brains and sense organs, to be conscious of our environments? and don't persons have minds of their own?
this is what philosopher anthony kenny calls the homunculus fallacy: a "postulation of a little man within a man to explain human experience and behavior." dualists have stipulated that the mind/person is the real subject of experiences, and not the human being, which is actually just a vessel for us minds/persons to reside in. but this just merely shifts the problem instead of actually explaining it. if the human animal's cognitive functions are explained away by another being, the mind/person, and persons like us clearly have minds—we're able to sense, perceive, act, and think—then we can ask whether our own cognitive functions also produce homunculi in our own heads. this leads to an endless regress of little men residing inside the heads of little men.
now, one could say that the person uses the same animal brain, eyes, ears, nose, mouth to experience, but then what's stopping the human animal itself from using its own brain and sense organs to experience? why can't the animal, who has the brain as a proper part fully integrated with its entire central nervous system, use that brain to think? we also know through empirical sciences that other animals are conscious, are emotional, and can perceive the environment around them, so why would human animals be incapable of doing the same?
to reiterate, consciousness, and the mind in general, are capacities. the mind and our consciousness are not objects that can be moved from once place to another, but powers. saying you can "upload" a mind is just as senseless as saying you can upload someone's ability to see or their ability to do recall what they did last summer. at most you can say that it might be possible to copy and digitize the contents of your brain into a machine, but this isn't moving "you." whatever is in that machine would be just a copy of whatever contents were in your brain. and it is certainly possible to make copies of copies. so even supposing star wars "mind uploads" are possible, how can you say that the "mind" in the machine would truly be you? (we can also ignore the need for substantiation that machines could be conscious just like us; it's not relevant to this discussion.) if i write a message on one piece of paper, erase it, and then write the same message on another piece of paper, i haven't simply moved the original paper. so "you" would not be whatever is that is on the computer, nor is it clear that such a being would ever be conscious.
see olson's article the metaphysics of transhumanism for more debunking on "mind uploads."
but we can suspend our understanding of modern science for the sake of argument—science certainly isn't a strong suit for abortion advocates anyway. suppose it were in fact possible for the immaterial person to interact with the material body. there would still be other interaction issues, namely, issues with interactions involving volitional acts.
here's an argument from peter hacker and max bennett:
suppose for a moment that we are in fact little persons and that the human animal is simply just a vessel for us to inhabit and ride around in. how does one exactly operate an animal body? to keep with the vehicle analogy, consider driving a car. before you can drive a car, you need knowledge of how the steering wheel, brake, accelerator, gearshift, turning signals, etc. all function. we need conscious knowledge of these parts and their functions as we are driving.
but then how do self-conscious "persons" or "minds" operate the animal bodies without any prerequisite knowledge of the specific neurons, cerebellum functions, spinal tracts, and the overall nervous system that is responsible for most of our motor activities? in other words, how do we move our animal bodies without knowing exactly which neuron cells to fire up and knowing the specific pathways to send signals to the limbs, etc.? if you want to speak, how do you know which neurons to fire to open up your mouth and move your vocal chords? if you want to turn your head, do you know exactly which buttons to press to move the head? if you want to pick up a book and read it, do you know how to control the animal body to pick up the book and lower the head to read the words?
a dualist cannot adequately explain how one operates an animal body.
accordingly, defenders of the constitution view say the person is constituted by the human animal. like singer, they claim that we were never fetuses, and that we, the persons, only came into existence once that fetus gained the some capacity for mental acts (e.g., having the capacity for self-consciousness), much like how the lump of clay exists prior to the statue, which only comes into existence once the clay is shaped in some particular manner. under the constitution view, animals and persons each have different properties that they share with one another. for example, the person has the property to think nonderivatively, while the animal only thinks derivatively in virtue of the person thinking. the animal has the property to digest food nonderivatively, while the person only digests derivatively in virtue of the animal digesting food. moreover, they claim that the human animal and person can also have differing persistence conditions. for example, it's possible that the human animal could be kept alive in a permanent vegetative state while the person would "disappear" for good once the capacity for self-consciousness is gone. it's important to note that self-consciousness is mastery of reflexive language. it is not that a person comes into existence once the human animal becomes self-conscious, but that the human animal has learned reflexive language.
but the constitution view is begging the question. they are presupposing that 1) there are even two objects in the clay/statute analogy, and that 2) this analogy extends to living beings, i.e., that there are two distinct beings (the person and the human animal) co-located with one another.
with regards to the lump of clay and statue analogy, we easily say that there is only one object here: a lump of clay with the property of being shaped like a horse. the lump of clay can gain or lose this property, i.e., gain or lose its shape, but it would still persist as the one and same lump of clay. for example, we can take the same lump of clay shaped as a horse and then reshape it into a statute of dog. similarly, i can gain the property of being able to walk (think of a toddler learning how to walk) and lose the same property later on (i could become paralyzed); but that doesn't mean there were two distinct beings co-located within me (the walker and non-walker). i also have the property of shape—i can go from being scrawny to having a bodybuilder's sculpted figure to being fat—but it would be silly to suggest that i was "constituted" by several distinct beings from my transformations from skinny to built to fat.
moreover, a statue is an artifact. we can't generalize what might be true of artifacts to living things. even supposing we had two distinct objects (the statue and the lump of clay), what's the argument to show that this constituting relationship applies to living things as well? i can smash the clay statute into pieces, moisten up the clay rubble, and use the same clay to build a new statute. or, alternatively, i can add even more sculpted lumps of clay to the original statute. can you do the same with a human being or any other living being? no. you cannot smash me into pieces and put me back together, for i'd be dead. on the other hand, a human being could lose all of his limbs and still persist, while a statue that loses all its "limbs" ceases to be a statue and becomes rubble. statues do not grow 1,000 times their size. nor do the particles of the statues constantly turnover like the particles of living organisms due to their metabolism. lumps of clay and statues—artifacts, in general—are not comparable to living things. what is true of the inorganic can't be generalized to the organic.
defenders of the constitution view want us to believe some extraordinary—that somehow there are two distinct objects coinciding in the same exact space and the two objects are somehow also indistinguishable down to very last atom. if the same atoms can compose two different objects at once, why would we not say that the objects are identical? this is why i put "fairy tales" in title—they want us to believe this without any explanations, substantiations, or empirical observations. it's no different than me asserting that there are fifty different beings seated exactly where i am, without any empirical substantiation or explanatory power as to why anyone ought to believe that in the first place.
this is what eric olson (in his book "a study in personal ontology") calls the indiscernibility problem:
here's the standard argument given for animalism (the view that we are animals): there is a human animal sitting in your chair and that human animal is thinking. if you are the thinking being sitting in your chair, then you are the human animal seated in your chair. if you don't think you are the human animal, then there is another being that is thinking.
suppose that there are indeed two beings seated exactly where you are: the human animal and the person. this leads to an epistemic problem: how do you know you are the person, and not the human animal? they are thinking the same things and are sensing the same things (whether derivatively or nonderivatively). both of them have a shared history and appear to recall the same exact memories. both of them are reading this exact passage at the exact same time. if you think you are the person, then the human animal is also thinking he is the person. the problem isn't just that are two beings sharing the same thoughts, but also that you can never know which of the two beings you are: the human animal or the person.
to get around this problem, dualists often try to deny that animals, including humans, could think at all. according to them, only "persons" are capable of thinking. in order words, there is only one thinker, the person. but why should anyone accept this? if the human animal has all the neurological and anatomical structures required for one to think, then why can't it also think?
now suppose, for argument's sake, that human animals can't think, and only persons can think. we can replace the too many thinkers objection with the too many feelers objection. when the person is in a sad mental state, the human animal cries. when the person is angry, the human animal shakes with rage. when the person is embarrassed, the human animal blushes. when the person is anxious, the human animal feels butterflies in its stomach and its heart starts racing. when the person is disgusted, the human animal becomes nauseated. here, once again, we have a "too many candidates" problem. you can never know which of the two beings you are: the person who is sad, angry, embarrassed, anxious, and disgusted, or the human animal that is crying, shaking with rage, blushing, has knots in his stomach, and is nauseated.
so even if star wars "mind uploads" were possible, you could never know whether you'd be the magical mind that gets moved or the human animal that gets left behind.
submitted by toptrool to prolife [link] [comments]
more often than not, their views are grounded in conceptual confusions. i always found it incoherent that they value consciousness, but not the being that is conscious. but as it turns out, many of them don't believe that the unborn child is the one and the same entity that later becomes conscious. for example, they'll claim that they are a "mind" and not an organism (e.g., a human being), and that abortion isn't actually killing "someone," but rather it's just killing a clump of cells that will later become inhabited by "someone," i.e., that the body is simply a "vessel" for the person that later emerges. similarly, they argue that impairing a fetus is wrong only because it affects a future being, which they identify as the person. perhaps this is a comforting lie that abortion advocates like to tell themselves in order to justify the killing of unborn children ("we're not really killing anyone, it's just flesh and bones!").
the existence of another being co-located with each human animal would be a remarkable discovery in all of science and natural history. but what exactly is the evidence for this? it's all unsubstantiated. over 100 billion humans have lived and died on earth, yet no one has documented any evidence of another material being with us apart from the human animal itself. and if the being is immaterial, who's to say that the being wasn't there from the moment of conception, just in a latent form?
these views can rightly be called fairy tales because, in addition to them being unsubstantiated, those who hold such beliefs think persons like them are special and for some reason they cannot be something as crude as animals. but the truth is that we are bodily beings. to deny that we are animals is to deny several empirical findings in biology, including evolution. the empirical sciences tell us that we descended from animals, and that we are animals. why should anyone reject this? has there been an astonishing new finding contradicting evolutionary theory that we are not aware of? they want to us to believe that the human being (an animal) that has all the sense organs (eyes, ears, brain, etc.) is not the actual being that is conscious and senses the environment around him. rather, it is another being, the "person," who comes into existence at the onset of consciousness, that is conscious. you see, forget evolutionary theory! the human animal has no use of its sense organs, for it is the magical person that is the one who actually senses what is around him!
the idea that a second being, the "person," comes into existence at the onset of consciousness is no different than various "ensoulment" arguments offered by the clergy. the only difference is that an omnipotent god laser beaming a soul into a soulless body has more explanatory power than a second being coming into existence once the fetus gains the capacity for mental acts. and isn't it interesting that many of those who hold such fairy tale/unsubstantiated beliefs about a "second being" are often subscribed to various "atheism rules!" blogs? those that are embarrassed by the notion of a soul instead have replaced the clergy's argument for ensoulment with the sophist's consciousness argument: that our bodies are simply vegetables, or "vessels," for the real us, the person, to inhabit. call this view "emergent dualism"—that the person "emerges" once the body, which is separate from the person, gains the capacity for consciousness. unfortunately for abortion advocates that try this sophistry, mind/body dualism is just as much derided as the concept of soul in philosophical and neuroscience circles and ridiculed as the belief that we are little persons that control and ride around in animal bodies.
it should not lost on us that abortion advocates want to impose their fairy tale beliefs on the unborn. nonetheless, if we are to persuade people to stop killing innocent babies, we need to clear up the conceptual confusions in matters related to personal identity.
chronic vegetative state and brain death
why do people believe in such fairy tales in the first place? more often than not, it's due to conceptual confusions involving cases of patients who are in persistent vegetative state. to truly understand their point of view, it's important to recall the likeness of the clergy's ensoulment argument with the sophist's consciousness argument. they believe that in cases of a patient who is in a permanent vegetative state, the "person" is gone, and what remains is just a body. according to them, the person "dies" when the animal body loses the capacity for consciousness. the animal that is kept alive on artificial life support persists, but the person has perished. due to the differing persistence conditions, the person and human animal must be two different entities, so they argue. but this is a confused account. the proper way (i.e., the objective, scientific way) to look at such cases is that that the human animal that comes into existence at fertilization gains and loses the capacity of consciousness and is the one and the same being that is conscious. there is no "second being" that comes and goes at the onset of consciousness. such fairy tales would have strange implications. consider the case of the woman who woke up from a 16 year long coma. did the "person" leave the animal body to go on a vacation for 16 years and then return? or was it the same person who simply lost the capacity for consciousness for 16 years and then recovered? in 2018, the american academy of neurology got rid of the concept of "permanent vegetative state" altogether and replaced it with chronic vegetative state because lots of people were waking up from their "permanent" comas.this conceptual confusion is compounded by another conceptual confusion: equating persistent/chronic vegetative state with brain death. chronic vegetative state is a consciousness disorder. you can have repeated instances of consciousness disorders (e.g., becoming unconscious for extended periods of time after multiple different traumatic brain injuries), but that would not be brain death, which entails the irreversible cessation of all brain activities, not just the cessation of brain activities related to consciousness.
because low information debaters confuse a conscious being with the person, they often conflate total brain failure (i.e., brain death) with what they call "higher brain death," or loss of consciousness in general. this idea is based not only on more conceptual confusions, but also on scientific illiteracy. the "higher" part refers to the upper brain, the cerebrum, which they incorrectly believe is the "seat of consciousness." the cerebrum is responsible for many of our advanced cognitive abilities (self-reflective awareness, thinking, etc.), but not all of our mental activities. the brain stem (the lower part of the brain, and perhaps the most important part) has been shown to regulate our consciousness and emotions, and likely our senses too. studies of humans born without their "upper brains" show that they are very much conscious and alive. but to return to the confusion, they believe that the animal can be kept alive with a minimal functioning brain stem that regulates the autonomic nervous system, which can keep the cardiovascular and respiratory systems functioning, but the person is gone after the loss of consciousness.
the "higher brain death" criteria is not taken seriously by anyone other than low information philosophers. scientists and physicians and, more importantly, legal jurisdictions, all use the whole brain death criteria, i.e., total brain failure. the whole brain death is a more refined criteria since it involves total brain failure, including failure of the brainstem. this is what all medical practitioners go by, and, i believe most, if not all, countries use this criteria in their laws. the standard justification given for using total brain failure as a marker of death is due to the loss of the organism's capacity to function in an organized and integrated manner and the loss of its autonomous vital functions. it has nothing to do with the loss of consciousness. total brain failure leads to an irreversible loss of consciousness, but the opposite is not true; loss of consciousness doesn't mean brain death. you can be unconscious for a prolonged period of time and still have a functioning brain for the most part. there are lots of disorders of consciousness, but no actual doctoscientist equates them to brain death.
this conceptual confusion then leads to the sophist's symmetry argument. according to this argument, if our deaths are marked by brain death (which they wrongly equate with loss of consciousness), then the beginning of our lives should be marked by a functioning brain (and by that they wrongly believe the brain's only function is to generate consciousness).
the symmetry argument fails on more than one count. the comparison of the unborn with the braindead is outright silly. brain death entails the irreversible cessation of all brain functions, including functions of the brainstem. that is not the case with the unborn, whose brain is still developing and functioning as it should be. it's the difference between "not yet" and "no more." the immature brain begins to form as early as 3 weeks post-conception (or 5 weeks gestation) and is actively developing in utero. the only true symmetry with the brain death criterion and the beginning of life corresponds with the loss of the organism's capacity for organized and integrated functions—a capacity the organism had since the moment of fertilization. moreover, the unborn child at those early stages is healthy. comparing withdrawing care from a completely healthy child is a completely different matter than withdrawing care from a patient in a chronic vegetative state or a terminally ill patient.
moreover, not everyone accepts the brain death view. neurologist alan shewmon, who is one of most influential critics of "brain death," had observed patients whose bodies were functioning normally even with total brain failure. such patients were exhibiting metabolism, repair, proportionate growth (including "brain dead" children undergoing puberty), etc. he even came across cases of "brain dead" pregnant women who ended up giving birth to live children; but how can someone that is "dead" be capable of giving birth?
shewmon's findings were influential to the white house's council on bioethics, but he still disagrees with the brain death criteria that the council agreed upon because he does not believe the brain is an "integrator" of the human body. shewmon asks us to consider the case of people who who have high cervical spinal cord injuries. they are conscious but cannot control any part of their body because the brain cannot properly send signals to to the rest of the body to make movements. it's essentially as if the brain is "disconnected" from the rest of the body, which shewmon argues is functionally equivalent to a brain dead body under the standard justification of brain death. though the brain is not integrated with the rest of the body, the patient is still clearly alive. so how can one claim that a brain that is unintegrated from the rest of the body be the marker of death?
there is also a big problem diagnosing total brain failure. shewmon pointed out the case of jahi mcmath, who was declared "brain dead" in california after meeting all the diagnostic criteria. her parents, who rejected that diagnosis, took her new jersey, where they were allowed to make religious objections to the brain death determination. they knew their daughter wasn't dead, but seriously incapacitated. later, more neuroscientists (including shewmon) evaluated mcmath and saw that she was in fact minimally responsive despite meeting all the criteria for brain death. mcmath eventually died of liver failure. she was issued two death certificates, one in california in 2013, and another in new jersey in 2018.
but there certainly is debate over this. for a defense of the standard view of total brain failure as a marker of death, neurologist maureen condic has an outstanding article. she argues that what remains after total brain failure is simply coordinated activities between cells and tissues, but no genuine organized organismal integration. condic further argues that the whole brain death criteria meets two conditions that together satisfy the death of a human being: the cessation of autonomous regulation of one's own vital functions (especially cardiorespiratory functions) and the cessation of the one's mental functions. if a patient did not meet both conditions (e.g., a patient who is conscious and kept alive through artificial interventions because of other failing vital functions, or a patient who is unconscious but still has functioning and self-regulating vital functions without the need for artificial interventions such as ventilators), then, it would not be appropriate to declare death.
would shewmon's somatic criteria of death imply that we are obligated to keep patients with total brain failure on life support indefinitely? not at all. the question of whether we can withdraw extraordinary medical interventions from patients is a different question altogether. often times we withdraw such extraordinary medical interventions even from conscious patients. and whether or not one can take someone off life support, e.g., withdraw what may be extraordinary care, is irrelevant to what someone is. you can take a conscious person off life support as well, but that does not tell us anything about the moral status of the person.
circularity and infinite regress
some abortion advocates claim that we were never embryos, fetuses, or, even infants, and thus there is "no one" being killed by abortion. peter singer (in his book "practical ethics") claims that he was never an infant because there were no "mental links" between him and the infant from whom he developed:I am not the infant from whom I developed. The infant could not look forward to developing into the kind of being I am, or even into any intermediate being, between the being I now am and the infant. I cannot even recall being the infant; there are no mental links between us.according to peter singer, our identity, and what it takes for us to persist through time, consists of "mental links" between our conscious states. our identity is not dependent on biology, i.e., us being being human beings, but instead on psychological relations through various points in our lives, i.e., psychological continuity. since there is no psychological continuity between the persons we are now and the embryo, fetus, or infant, from which we developed, we were not identical to those nascent human beings.
well then, whatever happened to that embryo, fetus, or infant? did it perish once the "person" came into existence? it seems silly to suggest that a living thing perishes once it gains the capacity for some mental acts. if the unborn child still exists, then either it must be the one and the same person that you are now, or if it's not, then this implies there are actually two beings seated exactly where you are: the human animal that the embryo matured into, and the person.
suppose for a moment, as peter singer argues, that we are indeed streams of consciousness that flow from one experience to the next. this leads to a glaring circularity issue that joseph butler pointed out back in 1736 when he wrote that "consciousness of personal identity presupposes, and therefore cannot constitute, personal identity, any more than knowledge, in any other case, can constitute truth, which it presupposes."
memories, and conscious experiences in general, presuppose identity, and thus they cannot ground one's identity, as peter singer attempts. conscious experiences are had by the person. a substance first needs to exist in order to have conscious experiences and form memories. what we remember are the experiences that we had, but this already presupposes that we are identical to the person who had those experiences. we could not know whether one's memories are veridical without first establishing that they belong to the very same person who had those experiences. saying you remember being in new york city last week implies that you were in new york city last week, which then implies that you are identical to the person who was in new york city last week. but note that the last part presupposes the very thing being defined: personal identity. as harold noonan notes (in his book "personal identity"), the concept of personal identity is epistemologically prior to that of memory; one can't have the concept of memory without the concept of personal identity. that's what's makes the memory criterion (and the psychological continuity views in general) for personal identity circular and uninformative.
one example that highlights the issue at hand is the case of false memories. suppose one day you wake up with false memories and now think that you fought in the second world war even though you didn't because you weren't even born at that time. on what grounds can we show that these are false memories? we can't know whether or not these memories are genuine unless we first knew that you were in fact the person who fought in the second world war. it is not that you remember fighting in the second world war that makes you the person that fought in the second world war, for you were not physically present then and there to have those conscious experiences. genuine memories presuppose that one who remembers is identical to the one who experienced. you can only genuinely remember fighting in the second world war if you are identical to the person who fought in the second world war.
here are some other examples that highlight the issue at hand and also undermine psychological continuity views in general:
- suppose a person loses all of his episodic memories. if our identity is dependent on "mental links," then this implies a "new" person comes in to being and the "previous" person goes away at the onset of total amnesia. consider the absurd implications that this has. why should this "new" person have any claim to any and all property (house, car, bank accounts, etc.) held by the "previous" person? additionally, on what grounds can this "new" person claim any ties to the people the "previous" person had relationships with? in other words, even though the "previous" person had a father, mother, siblings, and children of his own, this "new" person, who is not psychologically continuous with the "previous" person, is not a relative of theirs. that "previous" person no longer exists. consider another scenario: suppose that detectives are finally close to solving a few cold cases and identifying a serial killer. they were finally able to match the dna samples from multiple victims to an elderly man. as the detectives interview this man, they learn that the man suffered a traumatic brain injury 20 years ago and lost all his memories. should the detectives arrest this man or should they let him be because he is no longer recalls being the person who committed those murders?
- another excellent argument comes from bernard williams. suppose a mad scientist tells you that he will soon begin to torture you. upon hearing this, you obviously become fearful and apprehensive. suppose he then tells you not to worry, because he will first wipe all of your memories and replace them with the memories of another person. yet, you will still be fearful and apprehensive of being tortured. why? because you know that it will in fact be you that will be tortured and be in extreme pain in the near future. we know that there are times that we forget things and also times that we misremember things, but these mental links do not ultimately change what we are: bodily beings.
- the idea that we are simply mental links between various stages of our lives violates the law of transitivity. here's an example from thomas reid: suppose a schoolboy is flogged during class for stealing. this student later becomes a soldier, and then finally a general at a more advanced age. suppose that when he was a soldier, he remembered being the schoolboy. and when he became a general, he remembered being the young soldier, but not the schoolboy. the old general remembers fighting wars in his younger days, but does not remember being a schoolboy. does this mean, because he does not recall his days as a schoolboy, that he was never that schoolboy? reid's example has been modified several times. suppose the general does remember being a schoolboy, but he does not remember being the young man who fought in wars. in other words, the general is psychologically continuous, i.e., identical, with the schoolboy, but not the young fighter. according to the psychological accounts of personal identity, the old general was never the young man who fought the wars.
a person who is self-aware is aware of something—himself. there is someone or something that is conscious, thinking, remembering, aware, has memories, and has a mind. there is someone or something that is experiencing, but what exactly is this being? the sensible answer is that the human being that came into existence at the moment of fertilization is the one and same being who is conscious, thinking, remembering, seeing, and feeling, etc. the human being of course has the brain and sense organs necessary to experience the environment around him.
the nonsensical answer given by abortion advocates in order to avoid certain unsavory implications of abortion is that we are not human beings, but instead we are "minds." it should be emphasized that saying "i am a mind" is just as senseless as saying "i am my eyesight" or "i am my ability to think." a mind isn't a conscious agent, but a set of mental faculties and powers. as peter hacker and max bennett note (in their book "philosophical foundations of neuroscience"), a mind does not make up its own mind; a mind does not have a mind of its own. but rather it's the human being that has a mind, perceives, thinks, has desires, makes decisions, and form intentions. the most prominent arguments for mind/body dualism came from rené descartes, who thought that the mind and body were two separate substances. descartes was a brilliant man, to be sure, but he did not have the knowledge that we have now. no contemporary neuroscientist or philosopher considers the mind to be a separate, conscious agent, or as gilbert ryle derisively called it, "the ghost in the machine." unfortunately, descartes' erroneous mind-body dualism is still very much pervasive, and so it too needs to be disentangled.
confusing the mind with the person, or a conscious agent, leads to the belief that there is a homunculus (latin for "little man") in our heads that senses and perceives and controls the body, and that we are this homunculus. are abortion advocates even able explain the physiological processes involved in the creation of this second being, like how we can explain the creation of an organism (e.g., fertilization)? surely they can point to studies about how the brain produces a separate substance—presumably, another material being, since science can only observe and explain the material. or are we supposed to pretend that it's just like the magic we see in harry potter movies?
nonetheless, this view leads to an infinite regress. consider the following:
i) the animal body ("vessel") is necessary to generate consciousness and produce a new being—the person.
ii) we are the person and not the animal.
iii) we are conscious.
iv) but just how can we persons be conscious? how are we able to sense the environment around us? there must be some necessary causal mechanism for persons themselves to be conscious. wouldn't we persons also need bodies of our own, with brains and sense organs, to be conscious of our environments? and don't persons have minds of their own?
this is what philosopher anthony kenny calls the homunculus fallacy: a "postulation of a little man within a man to explain human experience and behavior." dualists have stipulated that the mind/person is the real subject of experiences, and not the human being, which is actually just a vessel for us minds/persons to reside in. but this just merely shifts the problem instead of actually explaining it. if the human animal's cognitive functions are explained away by another being, the mind/person, and persons like us clearly have minds—we're able to sense, perceive, act, and think—then we can ask whether our own cognitive functions also produce homunculi in our own heads. this leads to an endless regress of little men residing inside the heads of little men.
now, one could say that the person uses the same animal brain, eyes, ears, nose, mouth to experience, but then what's stopping the human animal itself from using its own brain and sense organs to experience? why can't the animal, who has the brain as a proper part fully integrated with its entire central nervous system, use that brain to think? we also know through empirical sciences that other animals are conscious, are emotional, and can perceive the environment around them, so why would human animals be incapable of doing the same?
star wars "minds uploads"
proponents of dualism will ask us to consider situations in which "we" can be separated from our bodies. if the person can be separated from the animal body, then abortion advocates (and dualists) can properly show that we are not human beings. they will bring up "mind uploading" experiments that they might have seen in a star wars episode. the gist of the idea is that "you" can be separated from your animal body/"vessel" and be "uploaded" onto a computer where "you" can still persist. this persistence would obviously be based on psychological continuity and not biological continuity. however, abortion advocates never actually give proper explanations as to how this would all work. how would this possible? you aren't moving a person. if a person is a material thing, then, once again, what exactly is this being, and how can you "upload" this being? you can't send a banana over the phone, so how can you upload a material being into a computer? if the person is immaterial, then how can a material machine interact with an immaterial being?to reiterate, consciousness, and the mind in general, are capacities. the mind and our consciousness are not objects that can be moved from once place to another, but powers. saying you can "upload" a mind is just as senseless as saying you can upload someone's ability to see or their ability to do recall what they did last summer. at most you can say that it might be possible to copy and digitize the contents of your brain into a machine, but this isn't moving "you." whatever is in that machine would be just a copy of whatever contents were in your brain. and it is certainly possible to make copies of copies. so even supposing star wars "mind uploads" are possible, how can you say that the "mind" in the machine would truly be you? (we can also ignore the need for substantiation that machines could be conscious just like us; it's not relevant to this discussion.) if i write a message on one piece of paper, erase it, and then write the same message on another piece of paper, i haven't simply moved the original paper. so "you" would not be whatever is that is on the computer, nor is it clear that such a being would ever be conscious.
see olson's article the metaphysics of transhumanism for more debunking on "mind uploads."
riding around in animal bodies
descartes' mind/body dualism has several issues pertaining to interactions between the immaterial and material. for example, how could the immaterial mind interact with a material body? such interactions are difficult to explain with our current understanding of the laws of physics.but we can suspend our understanding of modern science for the sake of argument—science certainly isn't a strong suit for abortion advocates anyway. suppose it were in fact possible for the immaterial person to interact with the material body. there would still be other interaction issues, namely, issues with interactions involving volitional acts.
here's an argument from peter hacker and max bennett:
suppose for a moment that we are in fact little persons and that the human animal is simply just a vessel for us to inhabit and ride around in. how does one exactly operate an animal body? to keep with the vehicle analogy, consider driving a car. before you can drive a car, you need knowledge of how the steering wheel, brake, accelerator, gearshift, turning signals, etc. all function. we need conscious knowledge of these parts and their functions as we are driving.
but then how do self-conscious "persons" or "minds" operate the animal bodies without any prerequisite knowledge of the specific neurons, cerebellum functions, spinal tracts, and the overall nervous system that is responsible for most of our motor activities? in other words, how do we move our animal bodies without knowing exactly which neuron cells to fire up and knowing the specific pathways to send signals to the limbs, etc.? if you want to speak, how do you know which neurons to fire to open up your mouth and move your vocal chords? if you want to turn your head, do you know exactly which buttons to press to move the head? if you want to pick up a book and read it, do you know how to control the animal body to pick up the book and lower the head to read the words?
a dualist cannot adequately explain how one operates an animal body.
against the constitution view
being little persons that ride around in animal bodies sounds ridiculous (it is). so instead abortion advocates will utilize an analogy involving a statue and the lump of clay it is made of to make their views seem more plausible than they actually are. suppose you have a clay statue of a horse. we can say that this statute is constituted by the clay. you could smash the statute into pieces and what would remain is the lump of clay. the statue would be destroyed, but the lump of clay would still persist. the different persistence conditions of the statute and the clay imply that they must be two distinct objects that merely coincide with one another.accordingly, defenders of the constitution view say the person is constituted by the human animal. like singer, they claim that we were never fetuses, and that we, the persons, only came into existence once that fetus gained the some capacity for mental acts (e.g., having the capacity for self-consciousness), much like how the lump of clay exists prior to the statue, which only comes into existence once the clay is shaped in some particular manner. under the constitution view, animals and persons each have different properties that they share with one another. for example, the person has the property to think nonderivatively, while the animal only thinks derivatively in virtue of the person thinking. the animal has the property to digest food nonderivatively, while the person only digests derivatively in virtue of the animal digesting food. moreover, they claim that the human animal and person can also have differing persistence conditions. for example, it's possible that the human animal could be kept alive in a permanent vegetative state while the person would "disappear" for good once the capacity for self-consciousness is gone. it's important to note that self-consciousness is mastery of reflexive language. it is not that a person comes into existence once the human animal becomes self-conscious, but that the human animal has learned reflexive language.
but the constitution view is begging the question. they are presupposing that 1) there are even two objects in the clay/statute analogy, and that 2) this analogy extends to living beings, i.e., that there are two distinct beings (the person and the human animal) co-located with one another.
with regards to the lump of clay and statue analogy, we easily say that there is only one object here: a lump of clay with the property of being shaped like a horse. the lump of clay can gain or lose this property, i.e., gain or lose its shape, but it would still persist as the one and same lump of clay. for example, we can take the same lump of clay shaped as a horse and then reshape it into a statute of dog. similarly, i can gain the property of being able to walk (think of a toddler learning how to walk) and lose the same property later on (i could become paralyzed); but that doesn't mean there were two distinct beings co-located within me (the walker and non-walker). i also have the property of shape—i can go from being scrawny to having a bodybuilder's sculpted figure to being fat—but it would be silly to suggest that i was "constituted" by several distinct beings from my transformations from skinny to built to fat.
moreover, a statue is an artifact. we can't generalize what might be true of artifacts to living things. even supposing we had two distinct objects (the statue and the lump of clay), what's the argument to show that this constituting relationship applies to living things as well? i can smash the clay statute into pieces, moisten up the clay rubble, and use the same clay to build a new statute. or, alternatively, i can add even more sculpted lumps of clay to the original statute. can you do the same with a human being or any other living being? no. you cannot smash me into pieces and put me back together, for i'd be dead. on the other hand, a human being could lose all of his limbs and still persist, while a statue that loses all its "limbs" ceases to be a statue and becomes rubble. statues do not grow 1,000 times their size. nor do the particles of the statues constantly turnover like the particles of living organisms due to their metabolism. lumps of clay and statues—artifacts, in general—are not comparable to living things. what is true of the inorganic can't be generalized to the organic.
defenders of the constitution view want us to believe some extraordinary—that somehow there are two distinct objects coinciding in the same exact space and the two objects are somehow also indistinguishable down to very last atom. if the same atoms can compose two different objects at once, why would we not say that the objects are identical? this is why i put "fairy tales" in title—they want us to believe this without any explanations, substantiations, or empirical observations. it's no different than me asserting that there are fifty different beings seated exactly where i am, without any empirical substantiation or explanatory power as to why anyone ought to believe that in the first place.
this is what eric olson (in his book "a study in personal ontology") calls the indiscernibility problem:
How can putting the same parts together in the same way in the same circumstances give you qualitatively different wholes? If the same atoms can compose two things at once, what could make those two things qualitatively different? What could give them different mental properties, or different persistence conditions, or different modal properties? If atoms really could compose more than one object at once—if numerically different objects could coincide materially—should we not expect those objects to be qualitatively identical?what is it that makes us persons non-animals? what gives us different properties despite being indistinguishable from the human animal? so when one claims that "animals" don't think, they'd actually have to argue why animals are not capable of thinking, but we non-animals (the persons) are capable of thinking despite being indistinguishable from the animal down to the very last atom.
the too many thinkers objection
lastly, no dualist account can overcome the too many thinkers objection.here's the standard argument given for animalism (the view that we are animals): there is a human animal sitting in your chair and that human animal is thinking. if you are the thinking being sitting in your chair, then you are the human animal seated in your chair. if you don't think you are the human animal, then there is another being that is thinking.
suppose that there are indeed two beings seated exactly where you are: the human animal and the person. this leads to an epistemic problem: how do you know you are the person, and not the human animal? they are thinking the same things and are sensing the same things (whether derivatively or nonderivatively). both of them have a shared history and appear to recall the same exact memories. both of them are reading this exact passage at the exact same time. if you think you are the person, then the human animal is also thinking he is the person. the problem isn't just that are two beings sharing the same thoughts, but also that you can never know which of the two beings you are: the human animal or the person.
to get around this problem, dualists often try to deny that animals, including humans, could think at all. according to them, only "persons" are capable of thinking. in order words, there is only one thinker, the person. but why should anyone accept this? if the human animal has all the neurological and anatomical structures required for one to think, then why can't it also think?
now suppose, for argument's sake, that human animals can't think, and only persons can think. we can replace the too many thinkers objection with the too many feelers objection. when the person is in a sad mental state, the human animal cries. when the person is angry, the human animal shakes with rage. when the person is embarrassed, the human animal blushes. when the person is anxious, the human animal feels butterflies in its stomach and its heart starts racing. when the person is disgusted, the human animal becomes nauseated. here, once again, we have a "too many candidates" problem. you can never know which of the two beings you are: the person who is sad, angry, embarrassed, anxious, and disgusted, or the human animal that is crying, shaking with rage, blushing, has knots in his stomach, and is nauseated.
so even if star wars "mind uploads" were possible, you could never know whether you'd be the magical mind that gets moved or the human animal that gets left behind.
2024.04.25 23:41 chrispybobispy Deep cycle replacement questions
After 3 years of heavy use I am in need of some new batteries for my boat, 17ft backtroller with a 40 hp evinrude and 55pound 12 volt trolling motor. Before I had 1 or 2 27dc lead deep cycles and a starting battery for the outboard. I tend to use my trolling motor way more than my outboard. I am thinking about trying 1 or 2 m31s and a starting battery. I am curious if anyone has in input- is m31 a significant upgrade from 27 DC? Anyone ever parallel thier deepcycles? If I went for 2 x dual purpose could I really trust it to troll and start the motor? I intend to keep with lead but if anyone has had good luck with cheap lithium I'd be interested. Anyhelp is greatly appreciated!
submitted by chrispybobispy to batteries [link] [comments]
2024.04.25 23:27 chrispybobispy Deep cycle battery replacement
After 3 years of heavy use I am in need of some new batteries for my boat, 17ft backtroller with a 40 hp evinrude and 55pound 12 volt trolling motor. Before I had 1 or 2 27dc lead deep cycles and a starting battery for the outboard. I tend to use my trolling motor way more than my outboard. I am thinking about trying 1 or 2 m31s and a starting battery. I am curious if anyone has in input- is m31 a significant upgrade from 27 DC? Anyone ever parallel thier deepcycles? If I went for 2 x dual purpose could I really trust it to troll and start the motor? I intend to keep with lead but if anyone has had good luck with cheap lithium I'd be interested. Anyhelp is greatly appreciated!
submitted by chrispybobispy to Fishing [link] [comments]
2024.04.22 14:31 TELMxWILSON Fresh sexy tunes in your area are looking for listeners! New music from Audio, Spor, ASC, Dimension, Halogenix & dBridge and more… Reviews for Yamatai Records’ massive compilation and some deep rollers from Reknek [+weekly updated Spotify playlist] New Music Monday! (Week 17)
| Weekly updated Spotify Playlist | H2L: New Drum & Bass |
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| Apple Music Playlist | H2L: New Drum & Bass Apple Music |
| Retroactive Playlist | H2L: Retroactive New DnB |
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Picks Of The Week (by u/lefuniname)
1. Various Artists - Genesis VA Pt. 3 [Yamatai Recordings]
Recommended if you like: Any and all sorts of deep vibesYou know what we haven't had in a while? A good old compilation! Luckily the lads and ladesses behind one of the best up-and-coming deep and dark label, British imprint Yamatai Records, discussed on here many times before, have once again compiled a whole bunch of yamataisty tunes from a ton of yamatalented artists from all across the spectrum. Don't worry, (Yamata-)I'll stop. You know the game, first 3 especially exciting picks, then a summary, let's go!
Pick 1: Teezy - Broken Strings
First, we've got Bristol-based bass afieniado Luke Alexander Trowill, probably better known as Teezy! As part of the modern wave of new UK-based artists merging jump up with more out-there sound design and melodic vibes, Luke has been rising the ranks quickly ever since starting out way back in 2018. After trying to make a name for himself with submissions to various DJ competitions, he changed strategies and decided to start putting out some of the bangers he had been working on in the shadows during all of this. His debut on DNB Vibes in 2021 was soon followed up with releases on SASASAS, via their UNITE album mix, Pick The Lock, which landed him his first VISION Radio play, and DnB Allstars RAW. While this energetic jumpy sound had definitely found its audience, this was of course only the beginning of the prolific Bristolian's journey. With a freshly finished (2023 is still fresh okay) degree from the legendary BIMM university in hand, he plunged head first into full-time production, both under his Techno/House alias Eltee, and as a newly reinvented Teezy, the results of which were immediately picked up by the likes of Underground Soundz, Debunked, PullUp and, since this week, both Flexout's new newcomer platform XOU and the one and only Yamatai!
So what does this new one, Broken Strings, sound like then? Well, we've got free-flowing shuffly drums punctured by two punchy kicks laying down a base rhythm, accentuated further by very deliberately placed, slightly dissonant guitar-tuning-esque synth stabs to create a satisfying rhythm that gets the whole body moving in all sorts of ways, for one. Pair that with a vibey vocal sample, an amazing atmosphere and another futuristic synthwave-y electric guitar shredding its way straight into my heart, and you've got a tune and a half!
Pick 2: Marble Elephant - Fil d'Argent
Next, a duo that's been lighting up even the rainiest of my Sundays with their wonderful liquid creations in recent times: Marble Elephant! Way back in 2017, the DnB power couple consisting of Frenchman Baptiste Lecomte and Gerwoman Christina Woodger first connected at a Brightonian skatepark they both frequented, with their shared love for rave music being the main thing bringing them together. Even though Baptiste was initially not quite convinced of the drums and the basses yet, as he was more of a hardcore and -tek guy, they had enough other shared musical interests that they wanted to give creating music together a try, no matter the genre. However, they were really struggling to actually decide on something concrete and went through a ton of experimentation.
Until they stumbled upon D&B Academy, that is! By that point, DnB had gripped both of them, and the coursework the online platform offered seemed perfect for them to push their production to the next level. Their brief bout of doubt averted thanks to an insightful chat with the academy's founder Humanature, they enrolled and off they went! As Marble Elephant, the duo started releasing their creations on their very own MarbleLabel imprint in 2018, but as time went on, labels like Erculean, C and the legendary Influenza Media took on their delightful creations, and after a feature on none other than UKF in 2021, the stampede could not be stopped anymore. Basically all the Fokuz family labels, pyxis' charity platform Beats In Mind (among a couple others like it), Sunny Moves, Incurzion, Sub Wavelength - wherever you can find lush underground liquid, you could also marble at the loveliness they were putting out.
Now, Yamatai joins the ever-growing list! Fil d'Argent, French for silver thread, lures the listener in with an atmosphere defined by distorted, almost disturbing but luckily distant vocals, slowly creeping up to us along with its accompanying break arrangement. But don't worry, lushness isn't far. With the ol' reliable fast-paced rolling drum action as our motor, we flow through the peaks and troughs of an arrangement of most lovely tribalistic pling plongs, reverberating vocal chants, and menacing bass wubs. I honestly cannot get enough of it!
Pick 3: Ambion - Zyranth
Unlike the medication, this Ambion wakes you the hell up! Straight outta the Channel Island of Guernsey, Sam Broadhurst, the man behind the addictive beats, has been channelling all sorts of different influences into the diverse multi-genre discography he has (b)assembled since starting out in 2019. Garage, House, Techno, Rollers, and regular old Drum and Bass all got their time in the SoundCloud spotlight, but it was the latter that would edge out the competition, and by 2021, the Evolve Audio core member had stopped using his normal, real-life name (who would ever do that) in favour of the shiny new Ambion DnB alias. One free download at the time, Sam covered all sorts of ground on the energy spectrum, with his label debut Mesmic on the one and only Sinful Maze in 2023 probably being his heaviest all around.
Now, he kicks off his paid releases career, with his absolutely masterful contribution to the Yamatai canon, Zyranth! Back and forth, we rock from flickery, distortionated vibrations to truly menacing yet fonky-bouncy bassline responses, as slices of vocal samplery sparkle across it all. The longer this goes on, the more supercharged both parts of this equation become, and once a particularly spicy vocal chopping session begins its reign of terror, we even switch over to a roller-y switchup to round it all off. I can see why VISION Radio took a liking to this one. Simply Ambi-on point!
Summary
You want even more? Alright, we've also got Melysma bringing the fonk on We Return, vibe maestro Acris rolling it out on Let It Go, Theoretical saucing it up on Twangy Style, Dizrupt firing off some shots on Pursuit, Nebulate going the techy Shaolin route on SHO, Speaker Louis breaking it all up with Southbank Rhythms, Koax wubbing his way into our hearts on Operation Paperclip, Rue putting us all in Danger with his banger, TER3NCE & Descement bringing the energy on Eruption (one of my favs), Rhizome bleeping his finest bloops on Emergency Broadcast, Scurrow going halftimesies on Cold Start, Grim Hellhound shuffling the cards in all sorts of ways on Hidden Place, Cutworx spinning up some murky filth with his Moogy Wheels, Untrue cranking up the vibes on Calling Me, OZOH lighting up the room with Permanent Darkness and Sequent nicely finishing this insane sequence of events with Through Your Love.
You see why I chose to focus on just 3 of them? I could fill books with the backstories of all the talents involved in this! It's a straight-up ridiculously large goldmine of tunes from all across the spectrum.
2. Reknek - Midnight Vibes EP [Engage Audio]
Recommended if you like: Geostatic, Maykors, AmossNow onto someone I've been itching to talk about for a while already: the hecking techy, recklessly break-neck deep and dark master Reknek!
Straight out of Saint Petersburg, Herman Sokolov (depending on the source it's always different so I'll just go with Herman) has been putting in the work in the electronic music scene since more than 20 years at this point. Early on, it was the legendary MTV Music Generator on the PS1 that hooked him, but soon enough he got his hands on FL Studio to put his own spin on the stuff he had grown to love so much in the early 2000s, from Trance and Garage to Hard and Pumping House. Of course, plenty DnB also made its way into his playlists, and around 2006 he even joined a mysterious technoid-dnb collective that I actually don't know anything about. What I do know, however, is that, after a couple years of that, Herman decided to venture off on his own in 2012, with his Atmospheric Electronica, Future Garage and Dubtechno project Vancore, followed by his Experimental Techno and Half-Step alias Personnage. During all of this he wasn't just creating music in more and more incredibly specific genres, he also founded his very own label Sigrún Music and compiled one sample library after the other.
While putting together his latest sound pack, however, he realised he wanted to do more with these sounds. He wanted to go back to his roots, and once again partake in what he calls the Dark Souls of production: Drum and Bass! Inspired by his mate Nami, he started chasing that soul-crushing but consequently all the more rewarding high with his brand new alias, Reknek, in 2021. Right away, the accumulated skills from his decades of experience in all things electronic translated to tunes so sick, they immediately received support by VISION Radio and the Overview Podcast. Across most of the best underground labels around, including but not limited to the likes of Data Music, Impact Music, Overview, Yamatai (ayyy) and Ekou, he's put out one banger after the other, but the name behind his sickest output so far has got to be Engage Audio.
Before we get to talking about his newest wonderfully energetic offering on there, however, let's take a brief look at the London-based imprint! Since being established in 2016 by David "Four Points" Dean, Engage has not only been a vital part of the scene in the capital and beyond, with various collaborative works with the likes of Overview and Transparent Audio and their truly legendary lockdown-times sit-down raves being notable examples, among many others, they've also done a massive service to all the up-and-coming deep and dark artists by championing them from the very beginning. Melysma, Framer, Maykors, Resslek, Rizzle, Yannons and Speaker Louis are just a couple of the myriad of talented names you might not necessarily know yet, but should definitely check out and all provided some proper, dare I say, engaging audio all across the deep spectrum over the years, and now, Reknek joins this illustrious list, with his Midnight Vibes EP!
We kick things off with the perhaps slightly unconvential, wonderfully weird one-drop-wonder Follow Me. Fast-paced, energetic, proper slapping drum action acts as the foundation for some hypnotising, otherworldly processed vocals, ever-evolving, distorted synth melodies and powerful bass bombs to create a vibe unlike any other - what a way to start a project! Speaking of vibes, next we've got title track and incredibly aptly-titled tune Midnight Vibes. Soothing vocals, lowly rumbling bass moving about and occasionally peaking through to the surface, cheeky bits and bops chirping away, bassy flimmers flickering about, coming in one after the other, capturing the beautifully spookiness of the hour of the dead.
We continue rolling with Slip Away. Not only are the shuffly drums crazy detailed and packed with little fun switches and sounds, like the machine gun fire at the peak of the drop's constant evolution, Herman also managed to fit short bursts of vocals, piercing bass stabs and subtle background chords into this wonderful progression, resulting in an incredibly intricately arranged roller of a tune. Lastly, we've got Outun, on which we are once more treated to some excellent rolling drum work, this time accentuated by massive bass wobbles creating a rather infectious rhythm, the occasional rave siren, and 16th note madness. My favourite part has got to be the punctuated bass transforming into these large, drawn-out waves putting huge pressure on you to get yourself on the Dancefloor already.
In a world full of Simula clones and Bristol-flavoured minimalism seemingly dominating the deep and dark scene, it's such a breathe of fresh air to be treated to aggressive, ever-evolving and just plain sick drumwork, both all-encompassing and piercing basses, and all-around infectious energy as is on display here. Amazing EP!
New Releases
General DnB / Mixed
- Anki - Honestly EP [Ophelia] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Bcee, [ K S R ] - Life, Money (Paul T & Edward Oberon Remix) [Spearhead] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Dip Vertigo, Dr. Apollo - Cafe / Movin' [Play Me] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Dizz1, Mshcode - In The Zone EP [Echo Chamber Sound] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Georgie Riot, Ellen Lynch - I Am Enough [Riot] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- HighThere, Ly Da Buddah - Wimbo / Liit [Monkeejuice] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Papalam, Punchman, KaySi - Guitar Hero [КОСТЁР] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Sempra, Greg May, Louie Irving, Mummbls - Orange EP [Rooms Inc] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Serial Killaz, General Levy - Heeey Marijuana! EP [Streetlife] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Spencer Ramsay - Tremors (Bounce Edit) [NUFORM] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Thing - Collected Works 2023 LP [Dubthing] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Vanda, G-Class, Mad Sam, Junior Dog, Efno - Cool Down EP [Jungle Cakes] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Various Artists - Set The Remixes LP [Warp] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
Dancefloor
- BadKlaat - Injustice EP [Rude Service] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Betcon - Love Again [Gallant] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Dimension, Alison Wonderland - Satellite [Dimension] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Fred V - Take You There [Hospital] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Label Store], [Spotify]
- Killer Hertz - Ruckus [Viper] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Lateral - The Top [YANA] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- MC Fava, MC Mota, SiLi - Left Right [Liquicity] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Label Store], [Spotify]
- REAPER, T & Sugah - Danger - REAPER Remix [UKF] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
Liquid
- Alpha Rhythm, Leo Wood, Rezilient - Remix EP Part 1 [Fokuz] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Bone, Sadie Rae - Caught In The Distance EP [Offworld] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- CITRA - Heartbeat EP [Celsius] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Cloud Formation - Within [Lizplay] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Con-Figure - Eyes On You / Jazz Fingers [Influenza] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Deploy - Never Be The One [Deploy The] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Gravity - In Space [Totally Liquid] [Beatport], [Bandcamp]
- Jonathan Baker - Slow Nights [Heart Twice] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Liquefaction - Equinox [Totally Liquid] [Beatport], [Bandcamp]
- Makoto, Coffee Shop Jungle - Monies [Coffee Shop Jams] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Motiv - Limerence [Rinse / KOOL] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Nigel Good, Tien Viet Nguyen - The Magic [Monstercat] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Omnii - Moonlight Sonata Mvt. 1 EP [Inferno Collective] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Red Manta - Stuck in Time [SubCulture NL] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Robtopus - From The Roots EP [Lizplay] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Sahala, Joro Dudovski - Elevated [Joro Dudovski] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Steve Spacek, dBridge, Halogenix - Take Me Away [Gemini Gemini] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Tong8 - Buddha Soul EP [More170] [Beatport]
- Umax - Feel For You VIP / Blackout - VIP [Four Corners] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Various Artists - Sub Wavelength Recordings - Year One Remixed LP [Sub Wavelength] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
Deep / Tech / Minimal
- Akuma - All I Need [WOM] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Cern - Desire Path EP [Dispatch] [Beatport], [Bandcamp]
- Dee - Massive / Murdaration [Hyperactivity] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Dialective, Shadsky - Never Know [Dialect] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Disarm (dnb) - Vibe / Loophole [South Yard] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- DRZ - Player / Trips [Skankandbass] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Dunk - Science Friction EP [BrainRave] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Exile - Bass Drop [Banished Beats] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Fre4knc - Teratornis / Knock Knock [Vandal] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Gowchii - MEGARAPTOR EP [DistroKid] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Jaydan - Body Movin [DARKMTTR] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Metrodome, Blind Mic, Dogger - God Knows [Precinct] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Operate, Klinical, Koherent - Classics / Problems [Overview] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Serpnt, Brain - Thug Style EP [Sofa Sound] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Spor - Two Fang [Drum&BassArena] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Thing - One Thunder [Dubthing] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Various Artists - EXIT100, Pt. Three EP [Exit] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Various Artists - Genesis VA Pt. 3 LP [Yamatai] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Various Artists - XOU001, Pt. 1 EP [Flexout] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Vex - Selector (Minor Forms Remix) [Rollout] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Zoro, Gardna, Eljé - Butterflies [Zoro Remix] [Gardna] [Beatport], [Spotify]
Neuro
- A.way - Chronicles [MODUS] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Audio, AENYGMA, Burr Oak, Black Sun Empire - Where The Chaos Lies LP [Blackout] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Confusion - Chosen [Skamele] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Perplex (DNB) - It's The Vibe [DeVice] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- The Upbeats, Flowidus - Say My Name [The Upbeats] [Beatport], [Spotify]
Jump Up
- Bennie - Fifty Stacks [Born On Road] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Comet, Until Dawn - PROMISES [High Tea] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Complex - Decisions / Zero [Out1ine] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Kontakt, MadRush MC, T>I - Redlines at Dawn EP [Serial Killaz] [Beatport], [Bandcamp]
- Levela - Harsh [LVL] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Macky Gee - Psychopath [Macky Gee] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Profile, Sub Killaz - Ganja (Master Error Remix) [Organized Grime] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- S9T - Beast Mode [Modulate] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Sero, Chamber, Python - Virtuous Ep [Out1ine] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Spaow - Frogolite [Kuma] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Toxinate - Release yourself [Kronic Bass] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Various Artists - 420 Remixes EP [Riot Dubs] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Various Artists - DJ Hazard & His Imaginary Friends EP [Hazardous Material] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- XOHNE - The Feeling [DnB Active] [Beatport], [Spotify]
Jungle
- ASC - Reflections EP [Auxiliary] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Crate Classics, Omar+ - Westside [Crate Classics] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Dave Owen, Adred - Break Away EP [Dispatch] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Digital, Spirit, Kiljoy, X Nation - Digital's Dirty Dubs Vol. 2 [Function] , [Bandcamp]
- DJ Magic Touch - Brothers and sisters EP [99 records] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- DJ Pembroke - weed EP [Emperor (UK)] [Beatport], [Bandcamp]
- Enkei, OPEN CLOSE, DXRKWRLD, dskxo - forgotten lilith - route C LP [Ictasis Group] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Eschaton - 11 Dimensions of Dreams EP [Omni] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Eusebeia - Waveforms 05-06 [Waveforms] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Jesta - Liquor Snurf [Straight Up Breakbeat] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Kyng of Thievez, Natty Campbell, Man Up A Tree - Take It Eazy EP [Wayside] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Mineral - Until You Awaken EP [Omni] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- NOIR17 - Before My Eyes [Waxed] [Beatport], [Spotify]
- Rhymestar, Sublow Hz - Get High [UT0P!A] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- RIFFZ, Msymiakos, Subreachers - Park Sessions 09 EP [Cat In The Bag] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- So Durand - Révolte [Something Public] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Sykes - Lover To Lover EP [Fokuz] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Tuff Love Dubs - TUFF043 - Revivalism / Tapedeck [Tuff Love Dubs] [Beatport]
- Universal Project - Back Catalogue Volume 3 LP [Universal Project] [Beatport], [Bandcamp], [Spotify]
- Various Artists - Mined 017 [MINED] , [Bandcamp]
- Zukeepa - Bumpin' On Da Strip [ZuBeatz] [Beatport], [Bandcamp]
2024.04.19 09:38 war_boots Flashing klipper firmware instuctions for v1 and v2
Flashing the klipper firmware for the mini v1 and (probably...very likely) v2
Editied - formatting and clarification in a few spots, added methods for calculating rotation distance in the case that the values provided in the printer.cfg were incorrect.
I would definitely like to know any success stories as I just did this on my v1 and the process outlined below I made sure to include any changes needed to be made for the v2.
NOTE - I walk through the process using the kiauh (https://github.com/dw-0/kiauh) script to install klipper, Mainsail (the web interface), and Moonraker (api), using a fresh os install on any *nix computer (raspberry pi, orange pi, supported tablets, desktops etc..). If you would like to use octoprint, you should be able to skip at least a good portion of this after getting it set up. It's been awhile since I set up an octoprint instance, for getting it set up and connecting to your printer, there should be plenty of good guides out there. If you use or want to use fluidd - I believe the setup is pretty much the same as Mainsail, though I'm not 100 percent certain.
IMPORTANT - Before starting the flashing procedure, and honestly the first thing you should do is to get a copy of your printers current settings. If you use octoprint, or mainsail, or fluidd, go to the console and use the M503 gcode command
If you don't have it already, I suggest grabbing the printer.cfg file that contains the pin mappings for the MP Select Mini and a basic configuration to get your printer running.
V2 - https://github.com/Klipper3d/klippeblob/masteconfig/printer-monoprice-select-mini-v2-2018.cfg
V1 - https://github.com/Klipper3d/klippeblob/masteconfig/printer-monoprice-select-mini-v1-2016.cfg
Moving forward, if a step is different from the V1 to the V2 below or vice versa, I will note which Mini it is for (v1 or v2). Also, a caveat: I have a V1. I do not have a V2. They are similar enough that this should work for either, though.
You should note that in the printer.cfg config file comments at the top it shows all the flags to set when you go to make the klipper.bin you will flash to your printer. I suggest following the Klipper guide while also using the instuctions from the printer.cfg as you build the firmware. That guide can be found here - https://www.klipper3d.org/Installation.html.
Armed with these, the next few steps are pretty straightforward. First, you will need whatever SBC (singleboard computer ala raspberry pi, orange pi, le potato, etc..) or computer (personally I am using a spare Surface Pro 3 running linux) or whatever you intend to control the printer with moving forward. A personal recommendation I would make is to run at the very least a Raspberry Pi 3B+, the zero might be good option and I know there are people that run them successfully, I just would use something a little more powerful and you absolutely will want a network connection (wifi, ethernet...)
The Klipper Installation guide suggests flashing Octopi to a Raspberry Pi (other SBC images exist for this such as one for the orange pi etc..). I would deviate from the guide here so that things are better in the future for you. (Ex: you want to move to a multi printeklipper set up ran from a single controller and web interface, you want to keep klipper updated etc..). If you are using a raspberry pi I would flash an sdcard with the appropriate Raspberry Pi OS Lite version (Raspberry Pi OS Lite or Raspberry Pi OS (x64) Lite). You shouldn't need a desktop environment or window manager for this and on a computer like this, saving processing overhead is always a plus. If you are using a PC (desktop, old laptop, x86/64 tablet) I would just do a clean install of whatever *nix flavor you prefer. One other thing to note, during the installation of the os (or writing the SD card for RasPi) you will want to be sure to turn on SSH and note your username and password. Once you have the OS installed, be sure you can get it connected to your network (and the internet). You can verify this a couple of different ways: You can check for connected devices on your routers admin panel which should also give you the IP for this new install, You can do a local network scan from the PC that you will be working from (you can do this with most network scanners, Angry IP - https://angryip.org/ is great and works on windows, linux, and mac.) Once you install it just start a network scan for your home network (possibly 192.168.1.1-255, or 10.0.01-255, whatever your local network IP range is. Once it finishes you can sort by ping so that any addresses that didn't respond are at thew bottom. Scroll through the list and find the device you just set up. Regardless of how you do it, we just need the IP address for the computer that will be hosting klipper for you.
The next steps assume that you know how to use SSH, if you don't check here
https://www.howtogeek.com/311287/how-to-connect-to-an-ssh-server-from-windows-macos-or-linux/
for a quick overview on how to do it from windows, mac, or linux. If I'm on a windows machine I usually use PuTTY - https://putty.org/ or WSL (windows subsystem for linux), linux should allow you to use SSH directly from the command line. If you have a method for connecting over SSH already, just use it. Next, you will connect to the computer you set up over SSH using your username and password.
In the ssh window you should have a command line showing something like
This guide - https://meowfire.com/installing-klipper-on-ubuntu/
is pretty good (especially if you want to do multi printer set up) and will walk you through installing kiauh. My guide assumes you continue forward following the meowfire guide linked above and are using Mainsail. You can use whatever you like though there may be some differences that I don't cover here. The linked guide should get you set up regardless of the web interface you use (options for fluidd, mainsail, and octoprint are included in the kiauh script.) If you already are set up you can skip ahead to building klipper below.
Once that is complete, you should now have a functional web interface and klipper installed on your control device (raspberry pi, whatevs..).
The next thing to do is to build klipper. Follow the instructions here:
klipper - https://www.klipper3d.org/Installation.html under the "Building and flashing the microcontroller section."
While also having your relevant printer.cfg available
V1 - Be sure to use the configuration options from this config file - https://github.com/Klipper3d/klippeblob/masteconfig/printer-monoprice-select-mini-v1-2016.cfg
V2 - Be sure to use the configuration options from this config file - https://github.com/Klipper3d/klippeblob/masteconfig/printer-monoprice-select-mini-v2-2018.cfg
Go ahead and download the config file for your printer. You will be using it later.
The configuration options for building klipper for the V1 or V2 are at the top of their respective printer.cfg file. I would read over the top section a few times to make sure you've got a good understanding. You will want to follow it exactly. This includes setting the low level configuration options for the gpio pins and a few other options. It probably sounds more daunting than it actually is.
IMPORTANT - If you ever want to go back to the original firmware or if something goes wrong and you need to reflash, be sure that you set the offset for the bootloader so that it is not overwritten. The instructions to preserve the bootloader are with the instructions at the top of the printer.cfg file.
Once you finish building, you will have a klipper.bin file in the ~/klippeout folder on your controller device (Raspberry Pi etc...)
Flashing Klipper Firmware to the printer
The next thing you need to do is to get the klipper.bin file from the controlling device (the raspberry pi, etc..) to your pc. You can do this several ways (set up an ftp or sftp server, use SCP on linux, set up an SMB share or samba server) This part is up to you. Once you have the klipper.bin file on your desktop (laptop?..pc..whatever you are using) you will want to copy it onto a compatible SD card for your printer.
V1/V2 Note - This part was really important for me on the V1, as it has issues using larger capacity SD card. I used a 512mb sd card in my v1 to accomplish this. I would recommend formatting the sd card to either FAT or FAT32. This may or may not be the case for the V2.
Then copy klipper.bin to the root of the sd card.
V1 Note - I had to rename the file from klipper.bin to update.bin. I aslo included the file fcupdate.flg (I've read that this file is required for the V1 to initiate a firmware upgrade). I've seen some mention you can use a blank text file renamed to fcupdate.flg, or you can get a copy of the fcupdate.flg file here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0BxyFI3iDaicLQXRhNi1IZkd4WU0?ref=ghost.tynkerstudios.com&resourcekey=0-Y9kYyXDZkf-80qSAfMwSSg
V2 Note - I don't have a V2. According to mpselectmini.com - http://web.archive.org/web/20201111201122/https://www.mpselectmini.com/firmware/motion_controller (pulled from the internet archive since either I can't access the site or it's no longer hosted) you will need to rename klipper.bin to firmware.bin and also have the fcupdate.flg. I've read you can just rename an empty file to fcupdate.flg and put it on the sdcard or you can grab a copy of it from here - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0BxyFI3iDaicLQXRhNi1IZkd4WU0?ref=ghost.tynkerstudios.com&resourcekey=0-Y9kYyXDZkf-80qSAfMwSSg The fcupdate.flg file is just an indicator to initiate a firmware update, so it shouldn't be specific to the V1 or the V2 - in case you were wondering about the linked file.
The next part definitely varies from machine to machine as there were several revisions and from what I've read the update process for the firmware was not very consistent.
Turn off your printer and insert the microsd card. Turn on your printer. It may immediately begin the firmware update process. It also might not (mine did not). The major issue here is that because the screen uses a separate micro controller, there isn't (or wasn't, at least for me) any indication that the firmware either was flashing, did flash, or did nothing. I ended up navigating to the print menu and then selected
V1 - update.bin
V2 - firmware.bin
and then click on it with the button to begin the update. This may be different for you, but what happened for me was that after clicking on the update.bin (V1) or firmware.bin (V2) the screen showed that it was updating. It then seemingly hung there indefinitely. After 20 minutes, I power cycled the printer. The UI came back up and I could navigate it, but selecting anything caused the printer to hang.
I thought, initially, that the firmware flash was unsuccessful. Here is what happens: You flashed new firmware to the mainboard, the screen is controlled by another board (an esp8266) with it's own firmware. Since we don't flash anything to the screen controller it continues to operate (mostly) as it should, EXCEPT when it does anything to interact with the mainboard such as: reading the sd card, moving any axis etc.. With klipper installed, the screen is there..it turns on, navigates menus, it just doesn't do anything really useful anymore.
In order to verify that klipper had successfully flashed i had to connect it to my controller (the raspberry pi, or laptop, or orange pi or whatever you used) then over ssh I issued the command
Your next steps are setting up the printer.cfg file properly. One thing that happened on my printer is that at least a couple of the axes were reversed, even using the printer.cfg file from the klipper gihtub. If any of your axes are inverted (moving the incorrect direction), this is an easy fix.
See this documentation - https://www.klipper3d.org/Config_Reference.html#stepper under the "Micro-controller Configuration" section.
It details either adding a "!" to the dir_pin to reverse it's direction, or if the "!" is already present in the config for the axis that is moving the wrong way simply remove the "!" to get it moving the correct direction
Ex (this is an example...do not change your pin name (ie do not change what is in the printer.cfg file to this..this is just to illustrate the "!" before the pin name.
Note - If your rotation distances are incorrect (prints are not dimensionally accurate) you will need to recalculate this value. To get the correct rotation_distance you should be able to use the settings from the m503 command you issued at the beginning These are axis dependent, and are formatted as steps per mm from the m503 command. Another option is to use this handy calculator:
https://blog.prusa3d.com/calculator_3416/
scroll down to "Stepper Motors - Steps per mm belt driven system section"
Input the various specs of your machine (likelly 1.8 degree step angle, 1/16 microstep (I selected just one of the available 1/16 options..I don't know if that matters) the belt pitch and/or belt presets ! !V1- the V1 uses mxl belts not gt2..or at least mine does, verify the belt type to obtain this value...on the belt on the v1 for the x-axis it says mxl on the belt).
Once you do that you can calculate and get the value for Steps Per Millimeter.
Now you will use this formula:
rotation_distance = * /
To get the correct rotation distance for each axis and change them in the printer.cfg
Note For Lead Screw Upgrades V1 and V2: If you previously performed the lead screw upgrade and used the commonly used Iverntech T8x8 lead screw (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LF2GGJ4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1) the following are the correct microsteps, steps per rotation, and rotation distance for your stepper z section (just add it to your printer.cfg file stepper z section or change the values if they are already there with the following:
In order to interface with the klipper firmware, you will absolutely have to change the following in the printer.cfg:
Here is an easy to follow guide for it - https://3dprintbeginner.com/hotend-and-heatbed-pid-tuning-in-klippe
You should be successfully running klipper now. I'll be including this guide and some others in write up I'm working on after doing some pretty extensive modifications to my v1. Hope this helps, if you get stuck, drop me a message and I'll try to help if and when I can.
submitted by war_boots to MPSelectMiniOwners [link] [comments]
Editied - formatting and clarification in a few spots, added methods for calculating rotation distance in the case that the values provided in the printer.cfg were incorrect.
I would definitely like to know any success stories as I just did this on my v1 and the process outlined below I made sure to include any changes needed to be made for the v2.
NOTE - I walk through the process using the kiauh (https://github.com/dw-0/kiauh) script to install klipper, Mainsail (the web interface), and Moonraker (api), using a fresh os install on any *nix computer (raspberry pi, orange pi, supported tablets, desktops etc..). If you would like to use octoprint, you should be able to skip at least a good portion of this after getting it set up. It's been awhile since I set up an octoprint instance, for getting it set up and connecting to your printer, there should be plenty of good guides out there. If you use or want to use fluidd - I believe the setup is pretty much the same as Mainsail, though I'm not 100 percent certain.
IMPORTANT - Before starting the flashing procedure, and honestly the first thing you should do is to get a copy of your printers current settings. If you use octoprint, or mainsail, or fluidd, go to the console and use the M503 gcode command
M503in the console (octoprint, mainsail, fluidd, etc..). It should spit out a bunch of data. Copy it to a text document and save it somewhere. YOU WILL NEED IT LATER. If you don't use a web interface, you could install pronterface on a laptop or desktop and interface with the console that way. Ideally, you will have a way to get a copy of these settings BEFORE FLASHING.
If you don't have it already, I suggest grabbing the printer.cfg file that contains the pin mappings for the MP Select Mini and a basic configuration to get your printer running.
V2 - https://github.com/Klipper3d/klippeblob/masteconfig/printer-monoprice-select-mini-v2-2018.cfg
V1 - https://github.com/Klipper3d/klippeblob/masteconfig/printer-monoprice-select-mini-v1-2016.cfg
Moving forward, if a step is different from the V1 to the V2 below or vice versa, I will note which Mini it is for (v1 or v2). Also, a caveat: I have a V1. I do not have a V2. They are similar enough that this should work for either, though.
You should note that in the printer.cfg config file comments at the top it shows all the flags to set when you go to make the klipper.bin you will flash to your printer. I suggest following the Klipper guide while also using the instuctions from the printer.cfg as you build the firmware. That guide can be found here - https://www.klipper3d.org/Installation.html.
Armed with these, the next few steps are pretty straightforward. First, you will need whatever SBC (singleboard computer ala raspberry pi, orange pi, le potato, etc..) or computer (personally I am using a spare Surface Pro 3 running linux) or whatever you intend to control the printer with moving forward. A personal recommendation I would make is to run at the very least a Raspberry Pi 3B+, the zero might be good option and I know there are people that run them successfully, I just would use something a little more powerful and you absolutely will want a network connection (wifi, ethernet...)
The Klipper Installation guide suggests flashing Octopi to a Raspberry Pi (other SBC images exist for this such as one for the orange pi etc..). I would deviate from the guide here so that things are better in the future for you. (Ex: you want to move to a multi printeklipper set up ran from a single controller and web interface, you want to keep klipper updated etc..). If you are using a raspberry pi I would flash an sdcard with the appropriate Raspberry Pi OS Lite version (Raspberry Pi OS Lite or Raspberry Pi OS (x64) Lite). You shouldn't need a desktop environment or window manager for this and on a computer like this, saving processing overhead is always a plus. If you are using a PC (desktop, old laptop, x86/64 tablet) I would just do a clean install of whatever *nix flavor you prefer. One other thing to note, during the installation of the os (or writing the SD card for RasPi) you will want to be sure to turn on SSH and note your username and password. Once you have the OS installed, be sure you can get it connected to your network (and the internet). You can verify this a couple of different ways: You can check for connected devices on your routers admin panel which should also give you the IP for this new install, You can do a local network scan from the PC that you will be working from (you can do this with most network scanners, Angry IP - https://angryip.org/ is great and works on windows, linux, and mac.) Once you install it just start a network scan for your home network (possibly 192.168.1.1-255, or 10.0.01-255, whatever your local network IP range is. Once it finishes you can sort by ping so that any addresses that didn't respond are at thew bottom. Scroll through the list and find the device you just set up. Regardless of how you do it, we just need the IP address for the computer that will be hosting klipper for you.
The next steps assume that you know how to use SSH, if you don't check here
https://www.howtogeek.com/311287/how-to-connect-to-an-ssh-server-from-windows-macos-or-linux/
for a quick overview on how to do it from windows, mac, or linux. If I'm on a windows machine I usually use PuTTY - https://putty.org/ or WSL (windows subsystem for linux), linux should allow you to use SSH directly from the command line. If you have a method for connecting over SSH already, just use it. Next, you will connect to the computer you set up over SSH using your username and password.
In the ssh window you should have a command line showing something like
username@myPC~/Once here you can start setting up the device that will be controlling your printer. you're going to install kiauh - https://github.com/dw-0/kiauh (klipper installation and update helper).
This guide - https://meowfire.com/installing-klipper-on-ubuntu/
is pretty good (especially if you want to do multi printer set up) and will walk you through installing kiauh. My guide assumes you continue forward following the meowfire guide linked above and are using Mainsail. You can use whatever you like though there may be some differences that I don't cover here. The linked guide should get you set up regardless of the web interface you use (options for fluidd, mainsail, and octoprint are included in the kiauh script.) If you already are set up you can skip ahead to building klipper below.
Once that is complete, you should now have a functional web interface and klipper installed on your control device (raspberry pi, whatevs..).
The next thing to do is to build klipper. Follow the instructions here:
klipper - https://www.klipper3d.org/Installation.html under the "Building and flashing the microcontroller section."
While also having your relevant printer.cfg available
V1 - Be sure to use the configuration options from this config file - https://github.com/Klipper3d/klippeblob/masteconfig/printer-monoprice-select-mini-v1-2016.cfg
V2 - Be sure to use the configuration options from this config file - https://github.com/Klipper3d/klippeblob/masteconfig/printer-monoprice-select-mini-v2-2018.cfg
Go ahead and download the config file for your printer. You will be using it later.
The configuration options for building klipper for the V1 or V2 are at the top of their respective printer.cfg file. I would read over the top section a few times to make sure you've got a good understanding. You will want to follow it exactly. This includes setting the low level configuration options for the gpio pins and a few other options. It probably sounds more daunting than it actually is.
IMPORTANT - If you ever want to go back to the original firmware or if something goes wrong and you need to reflash, be sure that you set the offset for the bootloader so that it is not overwritten. The instructions to preserve the bootloader are with the instructions at the top of the printer.cfg file.
Once you finish building, you will have a klipper.bin file in the ~/klippeout folder on your controller device (Raspberry Pi etc...)
Flashing Klipper Firmware to the printer
The next thing you need to do is to get the klipper.bin file from the controlling device (the raspberry pi, etc..) to your pc. You can do this several ways (set up an ftp or sftp server, use SCP on linux, set up an SMB share or samba server) This part is up to you. Once you have the klipper.bin file on your desktop (laptop?..pc..whatever you are using) you will want to copy it onto a compatible SD card for your printer.
V1/V2 Note - This part was really important for me on the V1, as it has issues using larger capacity SD card. I used a 512mb sd card in my v1 to accomplish this. I would recommend formatting the sd card to either FAT or FAT32. This may or may not be the case for the V2.
Then copy klipper.bin to the root of the sd card.
V1 Note - I had to rename the file from klipper.bin to update.bin. I aslo included the file fcupdate.flg (I've read that this file is required for the V1 to initiate a firmware upgrade). I've seen some mention you can use a blank text file renamed to fcupdate.flg, or you can get a copy of the fcupdate.flg file here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0BxyFI3iDaicLQXRhNi1IZkd4WU0?ref=ghost.tynkerstudios.com&resourcekey=0-Y9kYyXDZkf-80qSAfMwSSg
V2 Note - I don't have a V2. According to mpselectmini.com - http://web.archive.org/web/20201111201122/https://www.mpselectmini.com/firmware/motion_controller (pulled from the internet archive since either I can't access the site or it's no longer hosted) you will need to rename klipper.bin to firmware.bin and also have the fcupdate.flg. I've read you can just rename an empty file to fcupdate.flg and put it on the sdcard or you can grab a copy of it from here - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0BxyFI3iDaicLQXRhNi1IZkd4WU0?ref=ghost.tynkerstudios.com&resourcekey=0-Y9kYyXDZkf-80qSAfMwSSg The fcupdate.flg file is just an indicator to initiate a firmware update, so it shouldn't be specific to the V1 or the V2 - in case you were wondering about the linked file.
The next part definitely varies from machine to machine as there were several revisions and from what I've read the update process for the firmware was not very consistent.
Turn off your printer and insert the microsd card. Turn on your printer. It may immediately begin the firmware update process. It also might not (mine did not). The major issue here is that because the screen uses a separate micro controller, there isn't (or wasn't, at least for me) any indication that the firmware either was flashing, did flash, or did nothing. I ended up navigating to the print menu and then selected
V1 - update.bin
V2 - firmware.bin
and then click on it with the button to begin the update. This may be different for you, but what happened for me was that after clicking on the update.bin (V1) or firmware.bin (V2) the screen showed that it was updating. It then seemingly hung there indefinitely. After 20 minutes, I power cycled the printer. The UI came back up and I could navigate it, but selecting anything caused the printer to hang.
I thought, initially, that the firmware flash was unsuccessful. Here is what happens: You flashed new firmware to the mainboard, the screen is controlled by another board (an esp8266) with it's own firmware. Since we don't flash anything to the screen controller it continues to operate (mostly) as it should, EXCEPT when it does anything to interact with the mainboard such as: reading the sd card, moving any axis etc.. With klipper installed, the screen is there..it turns on, navigates menus, it just doesn't do anything really useful anymore.
In order to verify that klipper had successfully flashed i had to connect it to my controller (the raspberry pi, or laptop, or orange pi or whatever you used) then over ssh I issued the command
ls /dev/serial/by-id/*you should see something like this:
usb-Klipper_stm32f103xe_55FF6C067289485620352167-if00it might not be identical for the V2..but something close I would imagine..If you do..CONGRATS! Klipper has been successfully flashed to your Mini.
Your next steps are setting up the printer.cfg file properly. One thing that happened on my printer is that at least a couple of the axes were reversed, even using the printer.cfg file from the klipper gihtub. If any of your axes are inverted (moving the incorrect direction), this is an easy fix.
See this documentation - https://www.klipper3d.org/Config_Reference.html#stepper under the "Micro-controller Configuration" section.
It details either adding a "!" to the dir_pin to reverse it's direction, or if the "!" is already present in the config for the axis that is moving the wrong way simply remove the "!" to get it moving the correct direction
Ex (this is an example...do not change your pin name (ie do not change what is in the printer.cfg file to this..this is just to illustrate the "!" before the pin name.
[stepper_x] dir_pin = !PB4 ### - Note the "!" before the "PB4"Follow the instructions in the printer.cfg file to get a basic set up for your printer (setting pin direction and rotation distance). The rotation distances should be available to you in the text file you saved after issuing the "M503" command. You also might get lucky with what is in the provided printer.cfg. In my case, the values in the printer.cfg for rotation distances were all correct. The only editing I needed to do was to get the directions for the steppers correct.
Note - If your rotation distances are incorrect (prints are not dimensionally accurate) you will need to recalculate this value. To get the correct rotation_distance you should be able to use the settings from the m503 command you issued at the beginning These are axis dependent, and are formatted as steps per mm from the m503 command. Another option is to use this handy calculator:
https://blog.prusa3d.com/calculator_3416/
scroll down to "Stepper Motors - Steps per mm belt driven system section"
Input the various specs of your machine (likelly 1.8 degree step angle, 1/16 microstep (I selected just one of the available 1/16 options..I don't know if that matters) the belt pitch and/or belt presets ! !V1- the V1 uses mxl belts not gt2..or at least mine does, verify the belt type to obtain this value...on the belt on the v1 for the x-axis it says mxl on the belt).
Once you do that you can calculate and get the value for Steps Per Millimeter.
Now you will use this formula:
rotation_distance =
To get the correct rotation distance for each axis and change them in the printer.cfg
Note For Lead Screw Upgrades V1 and V2: If you previously performed the lead screw upgrade and used the commonly used Iverntech T8x8 lead screw (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LF2GGJ4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1) the following are the correct microsteps, steps per rotation, and rotation distance for your stepper z section (just add it to your printer.cfg file stepper z section or change the values if they are already there with the following:
[stepper_z] microsteps: 16 full_steps_per_rotation: 200 rotation_distance: 8 # Using iverntech 210mm TR8x8 with nema 17V2 Note - I have no experience with setting up the commented out sections of the printer.cfg at the bottom for an external screen or touch button...if you would like those features, I won't be able to help there.
In order to interface with the klipper firmware, you will absolutely have to change the following in the printer.cfg:
[mcu] serial: /dev/ttyACM0 restart_method: commandyou need to change the section "serial: /dev/ttyACM0" to whatever output you got from the following command (when issued to your raspberry pi or laptop or controller over SSH)
ls /dev/serial/by-id/*so for instance if it output
user@raspberrypi:~$ ls /dev/serial/by-id/* usb-Klipper_stm32f103xe_55FF6C067289485620352167-if00then you would change to:
[mcu] serial: usb-Klipper_stm32f103xe_55FF6C067289485620352167-if00 restart_method: commandOnce you can connect to your printer from your web interface (octoprint, mainsail, etc..) and you have your steppers moving in the correct direction (you can successfully home the printer is a great sign)...you will likely need to pid tune the hot end and then the bed. Klipper makes this really easy.
Here is an easy to follow guide for it - https://3dprintbeginner.com/hotend-and-heatbed-pid-tuning-in-klippe
You should be successfully running klipper now. I'll be including this guide and some others in write up I'm working on after doing some pretty extensive modifications to my v1. Hope this helps, if you get stuck, drop me a message and I'll try to help if and when I can.
2024.04.16 19:51 ImpossibleChef4899 Seeed XIAO NRF52840 sense breaks as soon as I upload my code
Hello guys, please I beg you help me.
Here's the situation: I've developed some code and thoroughly debugged it on a breadboard. The code has been running smoothly on a XIAO SAMD21 board, and everything was working perfectly. However, I've encountered a snag—I've run out of pins and needed to incorporate an accelerometer into my circuit. I thought that by purchasing the NRF52840 Sense board, I could utilize its onboard accelerometer. So, I acquired the board, uploaded my code to it, and unfortunately, it's not working as expected.
The NRF board operates flawlessly with all the example codes; there are no issues even with a customized code that toggles all the pins on and off. However, as soon as I upload my code, it malfunctions. Specifically, incorrect pins are activated, some don't function at all, the serial connection between the board and my PC is lost, and it becomes nearly impossible to upload any further code to the board. I have to force the board into bootloader mode by pressing the reset button twice to, for example, load the Blink example code onto the board. Once this is done, the board operates perfectly again. However, if I upload my code again, the same issues arise. It's important to note that at this point, the board isn't connected to the breadboard, and all the pins are unconnected—it's solely powered by the USB cable connected to my PC.
I have already tried changing which pins are used in the code, but that didn't change anything. Additionally, I have attempted to remove the interrupts, but that didn't help either.
Is it possible that my code is causing such significant issues with this board? I'm a complete amateur at this, so I'd greatly appreciate your help in figuring this out. Please bear with me and my potentially flawed code.
Thank you in advance for any assistance you can provide!
The error message i get after the board is broke is here:
*Failed to upgrade target. Error is: Write timeout
#include "LSM6DS3.h" #include "Wire.h" int buttonLed = 0; int encoderA = 1; int encoderB = 2; int LEDM1 = 3; int LEDM2 = 4; int LEDM3 = 5; int LEDM4 = 6; int in1 = 7; int buttonPin = 8; int in2 = 9; int pirPin = 10; int eprev; int pos = 0; int target = 0; int lasttarget; int targetTolerance = 3; // ± int Current = 0; int CurrentVal; int sum; int e; int dir; int readings = 16; int averageValue; int FirePos = 220; int LoadedPos = 7753; int HomePos = 0; int TurnIncroments = 7803; int dirThreshold = 70; int currentMode = 0; //keeps track of current mode int NUM_MODES = 4; // defines the total number of mode variables int currentIndex = 0; // Index of the currently active LED int direction = 1; // Direction of LED movement (1 for left to right, -1 for right to left) const int ledPins[] = {4, 5, 9, 10}; // Define the pins connected to the LEDs const int numLeds = sizeof(ledPins) / sizeof(ledPins[0]); // Calculate the number of LEDs const long interval = 150; // Interval between LED state changes (in milliseconds) long prevT = 0; float REV = 0; float RPM_VALUE; float erev = 0; float eintergral = 0; float kp = 30; float ki = 0; float kd = 0; boolean reading; boolean buttonState = 0; boolean lastButtonState = 0; boolean reading2; boolean buttonState2 = 0; boolean lastButtonState2 = 0; boolean reading3; boolean buttonState3 = 0; boolean lastButtonState3 = 0; boolean reading4; boolean buttonState4 = 0; boolean lastButtonState4 = 0; boolean reading5; boolean buttonState5 = 0; boolean lastButtonState5 = 0; boolean Homing = 0; boolean HomeConfirm = 0; boolean targetReached = 0; boolean motorStopped; boolean HardsStopSearch; boolean PostionAcheaved; boolean modeSelectionMode = 0; boolean flashingLedState = 0; boolean longPressDetected = 0; boolean lasModeSelectionMode = 0; boolean buttonReleased = 0; boolean ledState; boolean armDevice = 0; boolean liveDevice = 0; boolean modeSelectionCompleted = 0; boolean SpoonHeld = 0; boolean buttonLedState; boolean triggerCommanded = 0; boolean PIR = 0; boolean PIRLive = 0; unsigned long startTime; unsigned long intervalTime = 10000; //ms unsigned long debounceDelay = 50; //ms unsigned long lastDebounceTime = 0; unsigned long lastDebounceTime2= 0; unsigned long lastDebounceTime3= 0; unsigned long lastDebounceTime4= 0; unsigned long lastDebounceTime5= 0; unsigned long TIME; unsigned long PREVIOUS; unsigned long HomingTime = 150; //ms How long it will hit the hardstop for. unsigned long targetReachedStart; unsigned long targetReachedTimeout = 350; //ms unsigned long lastButtonPressTime = 0; unsigned long buttonPressedTime = 50; //ms unsigned long currentMillis; unsigned long armStartTime; unsigned long armTimeOut = 5000; //ms unsigned long SpoonHeldStart; unsigned long SpoonHeldTimeOut = 10000; //ms unsigned long modeSelectionTimeOutStart; unsigned long modeSelectionStartTime = 0; unsigned long modeSelectionDelay = 2000; //ms unsigned long flashingLedPrevious = 0; unsigned long flashingLedInterval = 250; //ms unsigned long buttonflashingLedPrevious; unsigned long buttonflashingLedInterval = 100; unsigned long buttonflashingLedIntervalPIR = 500; unsigned long previousMillis = 0; unsigned long PIRStart = 0; unsigned long PIRTimer = 5000; //PIR start countdown - ms void setup() { Serial.begin(9600); pinMode(in1, OUTPUT); pinMode(in2, OUTPUT); pinMode(buttonPin, INPUT); pinMode(LEDM1, OUTPUT); pinMode(LEDM2, OUTPUT); pinMode(LEDM3, OUTPUT); pinMode(LEDM4, OUTPUT); pinMode(buttonLed, OUTPUT); pinMode(pirPin, INPUT); pinMode(encoderA, INPUT_PULLUP); pinMode(encoderB, INPUT_PULLUP); attachInterrupt(digitalPinToInterrupt(encoderB), readEncoder, RISING); Serial.println("target pos"); digitalWrite(LEDM1, HIGH); digitalWrite(LEDM2, HIGH); digitalWrite(LEDM3, HIGH); digitalWrite(LEDM4, HIGH); delay(500); digitalWrite(LEDM1, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM2, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM3, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); startTime = millis(); target = 0; Home(); target = LoadedPos; } void readEncoder(){ long b = digitalRead(encoderA); if(b>0){ pos++; REV++; } else{ pos--; REV++; } // Reset pos to 0 after completing a full 360-degree turn if (pos >= TurnIncroments) { pos = 0; } else if (pos < 0) { pos = TurnIncroments - 1; } } void setMotor(int dir, int in1, int in2, int pwmVal){ if (dir == 1){ analogWrite(in1, pwmVal); analogWrite(in2, LOW); } else if (dir == -1){ analogWrite(in1, LOW); analogWrite(in2, pwmVal); } else{ analogWrite(in1, LOW); analogWrite(in2, LOW); } } void Home() {
analogWrite(in1, 150); startTime = millis(); // Record the start time when the motor starts spinning motorStopped = false; HardsStopSearch = HIGH;
while (HardsStopSearch == HIGH) { detachInterrupt(0); // Temporarily detach interrupt to avoid counting encoder pulses during homing // Calculate RPM and time as before TIME = millis() - PREVIOUS; RPM_VALUE = ((REV / TIME) * 60000) / 2660; PREVIOUS = millis(); REV = 0; attachInterrupt(encoderB, readEncoder, RISING); // Re-attach the interrupt delay(5); // Check if the RPM is 0 to indicate the motor has stopped spinning if (RPM_VALUE <= 0) { // If the motor has been stopped for the entire HomingTime, set motorStopped flag if (millis() - startTime >= HomingTime) { motorStopped = true; } } else { // Reset the start time if motor starts spinning again startTime = millis(); } // If the motor has stopped spinning for the entire HomingTime, stop the motor if (motorStopped) { analogWrite(in1, LOW); delay(500); HardsStopSearch = LOW; pos = HomePos; target = HomePos; Serial.println("Motor is home");
} } } void handleLongButtonPress() {
// Read the current state of the button pin buttonState = digitalRead(buttonPin); if(!buttonState){ lastButtonPressTime= millis(); } // If the button is pressed and held for the specified duration if (buttonState == HIGH && (millis() - lastButtonPressTime) >= modeSelectionDelay && lastButtonState != buttonState && armDevice == false) { // Toggle mode selection mode
if(lasModeSelectionMode == true){ modeSelectionMode = false; buttonReleased = false; modeSelectionCompleted = false; } else{ modeSelectionMode = true; buttonReleased = false; modeSelectionTimeOutStart = millis(); Serial.print("Current mode = "); Serial.println(currentMode + 1); } lastButtonState = buttonState; }
if(digitalRead(buttonPin)){ lasModeSelectionMode = modeSelectionMode; } if(!buttonState && lastButtonState){ lastButtonState = buttonState; } // Update LED state based on mode selection mode if ((millis() - lastButtonPressTime) >= modeSelectionDelay) { buttonReleased = false; } } void handleModeSelection() {
// If in mode selection mode and the mode selection time has elapsed if (modeSelectionMode && !armDevice && !liveDevice) { reading2 = digitalRead(buttonPin); digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); armDevice = false; if(millis() - modeSelectionTimeOutStart >= modeSelectionDelay){ modeSelectionMode = false; buttonReleased = false; modeSelectionCompleted = false; } }
if (reading2 != lastButtonState2) { // Button Pressed // Reset the debouncing timer lastDebounceTime2 = millis(); } if ((millis() - lastDebounceTime2) > debounceDelay) { // Whatever the reading is at, it's been there for longer than the debounce // Delay, so take it as the actual current state:
// If the button state has changed: if (reading2 != buttonState2) { buttonState2 = reading2; // Only toggle the LED if the new button state is HIGH if (buttonState2 == HIGH) { buttonReleased = true; } else { if (buttonReleased) { currentMode = (currentMode + 1) % NUM_MODES; modeSelectionTimeOutStart = millis(); flashingLedPrevious = currentMillis; ledState = HIGH; buttonReleased = false; Serial.print("Current mode = "); Serial.println(currentMode + 1); } } } }
lastButtonState2 = reading2;
if(modeSelectionMode){ flashingLedState = true; currentMillis = millis(); } else{ flashingLedState = false; ledState = HIGH; flashingLedPrevious = currentMillis; } if (currentMillis - flashingLedPrevious >= flashingLedInterval && flashingLedState == true) { flashingLedPrevious = currentMillis;
if (ledState == LOW) { ledState = HIGH; } else { ledState = LOW; } } if(PostionAcheaved){ switch (currentMode) { case 0: digitalWrite(LEDM1, ledState); digitalWrite(LEDM2, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM3, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); break;
case 1: digitalWrite(LEDM1, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM2, ledState); digitalWrite(LEDM3, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); break;
case 2: digitalWrite(LEDM1, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM2, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM3, ledState); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); break;
case 3: digitalWrite(LEDM1, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM2, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM3, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, ledState); break;
} }
} void handleShortButtonPress() {
if (!modeSelectionMode && armDevice == false && PostionAcheaved == true) { reading3 = digitalRead(buttonPin); if (reading3 != lastButtonState3) { // Button Pressed // Reset the debouncing timer lastDebounceTime3 = millis(); } if ((millis() - lastDebounceTime3) > debounceDelay) { // Whatever the reading is at, it's been there for longer than the debounce // delay, so take it as the actual current state: // If the button state has changed: if (reading3 != buttonState3) { buttonState3 = reading3; // Only toggle the LED if the new button state is HIGH if (buttonState3 == HIGH) { Serial.println("BUTTON PRESSED"); modeSelectionCompleted = true; } if (buttonState3 == LOW && modeSelectionCompleted == true) { Serial.println("BUTTON RELEASED"); Serial.println("Device Armed"); digitalWrite(buttonLed, HIGH); armDevice = true; armStartTime = millis(); } } } lastButtonState3 = reading3; } // armDevice breakout if (armDevice == true && liveDevice == false && millis() - armStartTime >= armTimeOut) { armDevice = false; lastButtonState = buttonState; digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); } } void handleArmingDevice(){
if (armDevice == true && PostionAcheaved == true &&liveDevice == false && modeSelectionMode == false) { reading4 = digitalRead(buttonPin); if (reading4 != lastButtonState4) { // Button Pressed // Reset the debouncing timer lastDebounceTime4 = millis(); } if ((millis() - lastDebounceTime4) > debounceDelay) { // Whatever the reading is at, it's been there for longer than the debounce // delay, so take it as the actual current state: // If the button state has changed: if (reading4 != buttonState4) { buttonState4 = reading4; // Only toggle the LED if the new button state is HIGH if (buttonState4 == HIGH) { Serial.println("LIVE DEVICE WAITING FOR BUTTON RELEASE"); SpoonHeldStart = millis(); currentMillis = millis(); SpoonHeld = true; } if (buttonState4 == LOW) { } } } lastButtonState4 = reading4;
}
// SpoonHeld breakout while(SpoonHeld){ if (millis() - SpoonHeldStart > SpoonHeldTimeOut) { armDevice = false; liveDevice = false; SpoonHeld = false; lastButtonState3 = reading3; digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); Serial.println("Spoon timeout, safe to release button");
while(digitalRead(buttonPin) == HIGH){ } }
if (millis() - buttonflashingLedPrevious >= buttonflashingLedInterval) {
buttonflashingLedPrevious = millis();
if (buttonLedState == LOW) { buttonLedState = HIGH; } else { buttonLedState = LOW; } }
digitalWrite(buttonLed, buttonLedState); if(digitalRead(buttonPin) == LOW && armDevice == true){ Serial.println("BUTTON RELEASED - DEVICE IS LIVE!!!!"); liveDevice = true; SpoonHeld = false; break; } }
} void handleModeExecution(){ while(liveDevice){ digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM1, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM2, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM3, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW);
switch (currentMode) { case 0: Serial.println("Mode 1 being actioned"); liveDevice = false; armDevice = false; delay(0); target = FirePos; triggerCommanded = true; break;
case 1: Serial.println("Mode 2 being actioned"); liveDevice = false; armDevice = false; delay(2000); target = FirePos; triggerCommanded = true; break;
case 2: Serial.println("Mode 3 being actioned"); liveDevice = false; armDevice = false; delay(3000); target = FirePos; triggerCommanded = true; break;
case 3: Serial.println("Mode 4 being actioned"); liveDevice = false; armDevice = false; PIR = true; PIRStart = millis(); while(PIR){ if(millis() - PIRStart >= PIRTimer && digitalRead(pirPin) == LOW){ PIR = false; digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); } if (millis() - buttonflashingLedPrevious >= buttonflashingLedIntervalPIR) {
buttonflashingLedPrevious = millis();
if (buttonLedState == LOW) { buttonLedState = HIGH; } else { buttonLedState = LOW; } } digitalWrite(buttonLed, buttonLedState); digitalWrite(LEDM4, buttonLedState); } PIRLive = true; digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); while(PIRLive){ if(digitalRead(pirPin) == HIGH){ PIRLive = false; } } delay(0); //Delay after pir trigger target = FirePos; triggerCommanded = true; break;
}
} } void loop() {
handleLongButtonPress(); handleModeSelection(); handleShortButtonPress(); handleArmingDevice(); handleModeExecution();
if(!PostionAcheaved && !armDevice && !liveDevice && target == LoadedPos){ currentMillis = millis(); // Check if it's time to update the LEDs if (currentMillis - previousMillis >= interval) { previousMillis = currentMillis; // Turn off all LEDs for (int i = 0; i < numLeds; i++) { digitalWrite(ledPins[i], LOW); } // Turn on the current LED digitalWrite(ledPins[currentIndex], HIGH); // Move to the next LED currentIndex += direction; // Check if we've reached the end of the line if (currentIndex >= numLeds) { currentIndex = numLeds - 2; // Set currentIndex to the second-to-last LED direction = -1; // Reverse direction } else if (currentIndex < 0) { currentIndex = 1; // Set currentIndex to the second LED direction = 1; // Reverse direction } } }
// Time Difference long currT = micros(); long et = currT-prevT; float deltaT = ((float)(currT-prevT))/(1.0e6); prevT = currT; // error if(pos > target - targetTolerance && pos < target + targetTolerance){ e = 0; if (!targetReached){ targetReached = true; targetReachedStart = millis(); } }
else{ e = pos - target; targetReached = false; } if(targetReached && millis() - targetReachedStart >= targetReachedTimeout){ PostionAcheaved = true; } else{ PostionAcheaved = false; } // Derivative float dedt = (e-eprev)/(deltaT); // integral eintergral = eintergral + e*deltaT; // Control Sinal float u = kp*e + kd*dedt + ki*eintergral; // Motor Power float pwmVal = fabs(u); if(pwmVal>255){ pwmVal = 255; }
// Motor Direction if(pos - target > dirThreshold){ dir = -1; } else{
dir = 1; if (u < 0) { dir = -1; // Change direction if control signal is negative } }
// Signal The Motor setMotor(dir, in1, in2, pwmVal); // Store Previous Error eprev = e; if(PostionAcheaved && triggerCommanded){ target = LoadedPos; triggerCommanded = false; }
/* reading5 = digitalRead(Button2); if (reading5 != lastButtonState5) { //Button Pressed // reset the debouncing timer lastDebounceTime5 = millis(); } if ((millis() - lastDebounceTime5) > debounceDelay) { // whatever the reading is at, it's been there for longer than the debounce // delay, so take it as the actual current state: // if the button state has changed: if (reading5 != buttonState5) { buttonState5 = reading5; // only toggle the LED if the new button state is HIGH if (buttonState5 == HIGH) {
Serial.println("BUTTON 2 HIGH"); target += 10; Serial.println(target);
}
else{
} } }
lastButtonState5 = reading5; */
} Please help me :)
submitted by ImpossibleChef4899 to arduino [link] [comments]
Here's the situation: I've developed some code and thoroughly debugged it on a breadboard. The code has been running smoothly on a XIAO SAMD21 board, and everything was working perfectly. However, I've encountered a snag—I've run out of pins and needed to incorporate an accelerometer into my circuit. I thought that by purchasing the NRF52840 Sense board, I could utilize its onboard accelerometer. So, I acquired the board, uploaded my code to it, and unfortunately, it's not working as expected.
The NRF board operates flawlessly with all the example codes; there are no issues even with a customized code that toggles all the pins on and off. However, as soon as I upload my code, it malfunctions. Specifically, incorrect pins are activated, some don't function at all, the serial connection between the board and my PC is lost, and it becomes nearly impossible to upload any further code to the board. I have to force the board into bootloader mode by pressing the reset button twice to, for example, load the Blink example code onto the board. Once this is done, the board operates perfectly again. However, if I upload my code again, the same issues arise. It's important to note that at this point, the board isn't connected to the breadboard, and all the pins are unconnected—it's solely powered by the USB cable connected to my PC.
I have already tried changing which pins are used in the code, but that didn't change anything. Additionally, I have attempted to remove the interrupts, but that didn't help either.
Is it possible that my code is causing such significant issues with this board? I'm a complete amateur at this, so I'd greatly appreciate your help in figuring this out. Please bear with me and my potentially flawed code.
Thank you in advance for any assistance you can provide!
The error message i get after the board is broke is here:
*Failed to upgrade target. Error is: Write timeout
- Traceback (most recent call last):
- File "nordicsemi_main_.py", line 294, in serial*
- File "nordicsemi\dfu\dfu.py", line 235, in dfu_send_images*
- File "nordicsemi\dfu\dfu.py", line 206, in _dfu_send_image*
- File "nordicsemi\dfu\dfu_transport_serial.py", line 213, in send_firmware*
- File "nordicsemi\dfu\dfu_transport_serial.py", line 241, in send_packet*
- File "site-packages\serial\serialwin32.py", line 323, in write*
- serial.serialutil.SerialTimeoutException: Write timeout *> *
- Possible causes:
- - Selected Bootloader version does not match the one on Bluefruit device.
- Please upgrade the Bootloader or select correct version in Tools->Bootloader.*
- - Baud rate must be 115200, Flow control must be off.
- - Target is not in DFU mode. Ground DFU pin and RESET and release both to enter DFU mode.
#include "LSM6DS3.h" #include "Wire.h" int buttonLed = 0; int encoderA = 1; int encoderB = 2; int LEDM1 = 3; int LEDM2 = 4; int LEDM3 = 5; int LEDM4 = 6; int in1 = 7; int buttonPin = 8; int in2 = 9; int pirPin = 10; int eprev; int pos = 0; int target = 0; int lasttarget; int targetTolerance = 3; // ± int Current = 0; int CurrentVal; int sum; int e; int dir; int readings = 16; int averageValue; int FirePos = 220; int LoadedPos = 7753; int HomePos = 0; int TurnIncroments = 7803; int dirThreshold = 70; int currentMode = 0; //keeps track of current mode int NUM_MODES = 4; // defines the total number of mode variables int currentIndex = 0; // Index of the currently active LED int direction = 1; // Direction of LED movement (1 for left to right, -1 for right to left) const int ledPins[] = {4, 5, 9, 10}; // Define the pins connected to the LEDs const int numLeds = sizeof(ledPins) / sizeof(ledPins[0]); // Calculate the number of LEDs const long interval = 150; // Interval between LED state changes (in milliseconds) long prevT = 0; float REV = 0; float RPM_VALUE; float erev = 0; float eintergral = 0; float kp = 30; float ki = 0; float kd = 0; boolean reading; boolean buttonState = 0; boolean lastButtonState = 0; boolean reading2; boolean buttonState2 = 0; boolean lastButtonState2 = 0; boolean reading3; boolean buttonState3 = 0; boolean lastButtonState3 = 0; boolean reading4; boolean buttonState4 = 0; boolean lastButtonState4 = 0; boolean reading5; boolean buttonState5 = 0; boolean lastButtonState5 = 0; boolean Homing = 0; boolean HomeConfirm = 0; boolean targetReached = 0; boolean motorStopped; boolean HardsStopSearch; boolean PostionAcheaved; boolean modeSelectionMode = 0; boolean flashingLedState = 0; boolean longPressDetected = 0; boolean lasModeSelectionMode = 0; boolean buttonReleased = 0; boolean ledState; boolean armDevice = 0; boolean liveDevice = 0; boolean modeSelectionCompleted = 0; boolean SpoonHeld = 0; boolean buttonLedState; boolean triggerCommanded = 0; boolean PIR = 0; boolean PIRLive = 0; unsigned long startTime; unsigned long intervalTime = 10000; //ms unsigned long debounceDelay = 50; //ms unsigned long lastDebounceTime = 0; unsigned long lastDebounceTime2= 0; unsigned long lastDebounceTime3= 0; unsigned long lastDebounceTime4= 0; unsigned long lastDebounceTime5= 0; unsigned long TIME; unsigned long PREVIOUS; unsigned long HomingTime = 150; //ms How long it will hit the hardstop for. unsigned long targetReachedStart; unsigned long targetReachedTimeout = 350; //ms unsigned long lastButtonPressTime = 0; unsigned long buttonPressedTime = 50; //ms unsigned long currentMillis; unsigned long armStartTime; unsigned long armTimeOut = 5000; //ms unsigned long SpoonHeldStart; unsigned long SpoonHeldTimeOut = 10000; //ms unsigned long modeSelectionTimeOutStart; unsigned long modeSelectionStartTime = 0; unsigned long modeSelectionDelay = 2000; //ms unsigned long flashingLedPrevious = 0; unsigned long flashingLedInterval = 250; //ms unsigned long buttonflashingLedPrevious; unsigned long buttonflashingLedInterval = 100; unsigned long buttonflashingLedIntervalPIR = 500; unsigned long previousMillis = 0; unsigned long PIRStart = 0; unsigned long PIRTimer = 5000; //PIR start countdown - ms void setup() { Serial.begin(9600); pinMode(in1, OUTPUT); pinMode(in2, OUTPUT); pinMode(buttonPin, INPUT); pinMode(LEDM1, OUTPUT); pinMode(LEDM2, OUTPUT); pinMode(LEDM3, OUTPUT); pinMode(LEDM4, OUTPUT); pinMode(buttonLed, OUTPUT); pinMode(pirPin, INPUT); pinMode(encoderA, INPUT_PULLUP); pinMode(encoderB, INPUT_PULLUP); attachInterrupt(digitalPinToInterrupt(encoderB), readEncoder, RISING); Serial.println("target pos"); digitalWrite(LEDM1, HIGH); digitalWrite(LEDM2, HIGH); digitalWrite(LEDM3, HIGH); digitalWrite(LEDM4, HIGH); delay(500); digitalWrite(LEDM1, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM2, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM3, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); startTime = millis(); target = 0; Home(); target = LoadedPos; } void readEncoder(){ long b = digitalRead(encoderA); if(b>0){ pos++; REV++; } else{ pos--; REV++; } // Reset pos to 0 after completing a full 360-degree turn if (pos >= TurnIncroments) { pos = 0; } else if (pos < 0) { pos = TurnIncroments - 1; } } void setMotor(int dir, int in1, int in2, int pwmVal){ if (dir == 1){ analogWrite(in1, pwmVal); analogWrite(in2, LOW); } else if (dir == -1){ analogWrite(in1, LOW); analogWrite(in2, pwmVal); } else{ analogWrite(in1, LOW); analogWrite(in2, LOW); } } void Home() {
analogWrite(in1, 150); startTime = millis(); // Record the start time when the motor starts spinning motorStopped = false; HardsStopSearch = HIGH;
while (HardsStopSearch == HIGH) { detachInterrupt(0); // Temporarily detach interrupt to avoid counting encoder pulses during homing // Calculate RPM and time as before TIME = millis() - PREVIOUS; RPM_VALUE = ((REV / TIME) * 60000) / 2660; PREVIOUS = millis(); REV = 0; attachInterrupt(encoderB, readEncoder, RISING); // Re-attach the interrupt delay(5); // Check if the RPM is 0 to indicate the motor has stopped spinning if (RPM_VALUE <= 0) { // If the motor has been stopped for the entire HomingTime, set motorStopped flag if (millis() - startTime >= HomingTime) { motorStopped = true; } } else { // Reset the start time if motor starts spinning again startTime = millis(); } // If the motor has stopped spinning for the entire HomingTime, stop the motor if (motorStopped) { analogWrite(in1, LOW); delay(500); HardsStopSearch = LOW; pos = HomePos; target = HomePos; Serial.println("Motor is home");
} } } void handleLongButtonPress() {
// Read the current state of the button pin buttonState = digitalRead(buttonPin); if(!buttonState){ lastButtonPressTime= millis(); } // If the button is pressed and held for the specified duration if (buttonState == HIGH && (millis() - lastButtonPressTime) >= modeSelectionDelay && lastButtonState != buttonState && armDevice == false) { // Toggle mode selection mode
if(lasModeSelectionMode == true){ modeSelectionMode = false; buttonReleased = false; modeSelectionCompleted = false; } else{ modeSelectionMode = true; buttonReleased = false; modeSelectionTimeOutStart = millis(); Serial.print("Current mode = "); Serial.println(currentMode + 1); } lastButtonState = buttonState; }
if(digitalRead(buttonPin)){ lasModeSelectionMode = modeSelectionMode; } if(!buttonState && lastButtonState){ lastButtonState = buttonState; } // Update LED state based on mode selection mode if ((millis() - lastButtonPressTime) >= modeSelectionDelay) { buttonReleased = false; } } void handleModeSelection() {
// If in mode selection mode and the mode selection time has elapsed if (modeSelectionMode && !armDevice && !liveDevice) { reading2 = digitalRead(buttonPin); digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); armDevice = false; if(millis() - modeSelectionTimeOutStart >= modeSelectionDelay){ modeSelectionMode = false; buttonReleased = false; modeSelectionCompleted = false; } }
if (reading2 != lastButtonState2) { // Button Pressed // Reset the debouncing timer lastDebounceTime2 = millis(); } if ((millis() - lastDebounceTime2) > debounceDelay) { // Whatever the reading is at, it's been there for longer than the debounce // Delay, so take it as the actual current state:
// If the button state has changed: if (reading2 != buttonState2) { buttonState2 = reading2; // Only toggle the LED if the new button state is HIGH if (buttonState2 == HIGH) { buttonReleased = true; } else { if (buttonReleased) { currentMode = (currentMode + 1) % NUM_MODES; modeSelectionTimeOutStart = millis(); flashingLedPrevious = currentMillis; ledState = HIGH; buttonReleased = false; Serial.print("Current mode = "); Serial.println(currentMode + 1); } } } }
lastButtonState2 = reading2;
if(modeSelectionMode){ flashingLedState = true; currentMillis = millis(); } else{ flashingLedState = false; ledState = HIGH; flashingLedPrevious = currentMillis; } if (currentMillis - flashingLedPrevious >= flashingLedInterval && flashingLedState == true) { flashingLedPrevious = currentMillis;
if (ledState == LOW) { ledState = HIGH; } else { ledState = LOW; } } if(PostionAcheaved){ switch (currentMode) { case 0: digitalWrite(LEDM1, ledState); digitalWrite(LEDM2, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM3, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); break;
case 1: digitalWrite(LEDM1, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM2, ledState); digitalWrite(LEDM3, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); break;
case 2: digitalWrite(LEDM1, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM2, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM3, ledState); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); break;
case 3: digitalWrite(LEDM1, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM2, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM3, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, ledState); break;
} }
} void handleShortButtonPress() {
if (!modeSelectionMode && armDevice == false && PostionAcheaved == true) { reading3 = digitalRead(buttonPin); if (reading3 != lastButtonState3) { // Button Pressed // Reset the debouncing timer lastDebounceTime3 = millis(); } if ((millis() - lastDebounceTime3) > debounceDelay) { // Whatever the reading is at, it's been there for longer than the debounce // delay, so take it as the actual current state: // If the button state has changed: if (reading3 != buttonState3) { buttonState3 = reading3; // Only toggle the LED if the new button state is HIGH if (buttonState3 == HIGH) { Serial.println("BUTTON PRESSED"); modeSelectionCompleted = true; } if (buttonState3 == LOW && modeSelectionCompleted == true) { Serial.println("BUTTON RELEASED"); Serial.println("Device Armed"); digitalWrite(buttonLed, HIGH); armDevice = true; armStartTime = millis(); } } } lastButtonState3 = reading3; } // armDevice breakout if (armDevice == true && liveDevice == false && millis() - armStartTime >= armTimeOut) { armDevice = false; lastButtonState = buttonState; digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); } } void handleArmingDevice(){
if (armDevice == true && PostionAcheaved == true &&liveDevice == false && modeSelectionMode == false) { reading4 = digitalRead(buttonPin); if (reading4 != lastButtonState4) { // Button Pressed // Reset the debouncing timer lastDebounceTime4 = millis(); } if ((millis() - lastDebounceTime4) > debounceDelay) { // Whatever the reading is at, it's been there for longer than the debounce // delay, so take it as the actual current state: // If the button state has changed: if (reading4 != buttonState4) { buttonState4 = reading4; // Only toggle the LED if the new button state is HIGH if (buttonState4 == HIGH) { Serial.println("LIVE DEVICE WAITING FOR BUTTON RELEASE"); SpoonHeldStart = millis(); currentMillis = millis(); SpoonHeld = true; } if (buttonState4 == LOW) { } } } lastButtonState4 = reading4;
}
// SpoonHeld breakout while(SpoonHeld){ if (millis() - SpoonHeldStart > SpoonHeldTimeOut) { armDevice = false; liveDevice = false; SpoonHeld = false; lastButtonState3 = reading3; digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); Serial.println("Spoon timeout, safe to release button");
while(digitalRead(buttonPin) == HIGH){ } }
if (millis() - buttonflashingLedPrevious >= buttonflashingLedInterval) {
buttonflashingLedPrevious = millis();
if (buttonLedState == LOW) { buttonLedState = HIGH; } else { buttonLedState = LOW; } }
digitalWrite(buttonLed, buttonLedState); if(digitalRead(buttonPin) == LOW && armDevice == true){ Serial.println("BUTTON RELEASED - DEVICE IS LIVE!!!!"); liveDevice = true; SpoonHeld = false; break; } }
} void handleModeExecution(){ while(liveDevice){ digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM1, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM2, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM3, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW);
switch (currentMode) { case 0: Serial.println("Mode 1 being actioned"); liveDevice = false; armDevice = false; delay(0); target = FirePos; triggerCommanded = true; break;
case 1: Serial.println("Mode 2 being actioned"); liveDevice = false; armDevice = false; delay(2000); target = FirePos; triggerCommanded = true; break;
case 2: Serial.println("Mode 3 being actioned"); liveDevice = false; armDevice = false; delay(3000); target = FirePos; triggerCommanded = true; break;
case 3: Serial.println("Mode 4 being actioned"); liveDevice = false; armDevice = false; PIR = true; PIRStart = millis(); while(PIR){ if(millis() - PIRStart >= PIRTimer && digitalRead(pirPin) == LOW){ PIR = false; digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); } if (millis() - buttonflashingLedPrevious >= buttonflashingLedIntervalPIR) {
buttonflashingLedPrevious = millis();
if (buttonLedState == LOW) { buttonLedState = HIGH; } else { buttonLedState = LOW; } } digitalWrite(buttonLed, buttonLedState); digitalWrite(LEDM4, buttonLedState); } PIRLive = true; digitalWrite(buttonLed, LOW); digitalWrite(LEDM4, LOW); while(PIRLive){ if(digitalRead(pirPin) == HIGH){ PIRLive = false; } } delay(0); //Delay after pir trigger target = FirePos; triggerCommanded = true; break;
}
} } void loop() {
handleLongButtonPress(); handleModeSelection(); handleShortButtonPress(); handleArmingDevice(); handleModeExecution();
if(!PostionAcheaved && !armDevice && !liveDevice && target == LoadedPos){ currentMillis = millis(); // Check if it's time to update the LEDs if (currentMillis - previousMillis >= interval) { previousMillis = currentMillis; // Turn off all LEDs for (int i = 0; i < numLeds; i++) { digitalWrite(ledPins[i], LOW); } // Turn on the current LED digitalWrite(ledPins[currentIndex], HIGH); // Move to the next LED currentIndex += direction; // Check if we've reached the end of the line if (currentIndex >= numLeds) { currentIndex = numLeds - 2; // Set currentIndex to the second-to-last LED direction = -1; // Reverse direction } else if (currentIndex < 0) { currentIndex = 1; // Set currentIndex to the second LED direction = 1; // Reverse direction } } }
// Time Difference long currT = micros(); long et = currT-prevT; float deltaT = ((float)(currT-prevT))/(1.0e6); prevT = currT; // error if(pos > target - targetTolerance && pos < target + targetTolerance){ e = 0; if (!targetReached){ targetReached = true; targetReachedStart = millis(); } }
else{ e = pos - target; targetReached = false; } if(targetReached && millis() - targetReachedStart >= targetReachedTimeout){ PostionAcheaved = true; } else{ PostionAcheaved = false; } // Derivative float dedt = (e-eprev)/(deltaT); // integral eintergral = eintergral + e*deltaT; // Control Sinal float u = kp*e + kd*dedt + ki*eintergral; // Motor Power float pwmVal = fabs(u); if(pwmVal>255){ pwmVal = 255; }
// Motor Direction if(pos - target > dirThreshold){ dir = -1; } else{
dir = 1; if (u < 0) { dir = -1; // Change direction if control signal is negative } }
// Signal The Motor setMotor(dir, in1, in2, pwmVal); // Store Previous Error eprev = e; if(PostionAcheaved && triggerCommanded){ target = LoadedPos; triggerCommanded = false; }
/* reading5 = digitalRead(Button2); if (reading5 != lastButtonState5) { //Button Pressed // reset the debouncing timer lastDebounceTime5 = millis(); } if ((millis() - lastDebounceTime5) > debounceDelay) { // whatever the reading is at, it's been there for longer than the debounce // delay, so take it as the actual current state: // if the button state has changed: if (reading5 != buttonState5) { buttonState5 = reading5; // only toggle the LED if the new button state is HIGH if (buttonState5 == HIGH) {
Serial.println("BUTTON 2 HIGH"); target += 10; Serial.println(target);
}
else{
} } }
lastButtonState5 = reading5; */
} Please help me :)
2024.04.11 04:52 Numerous_Bat6841 Quadcopter won't arm after sitting idle longer than ~20 minutes
Flying a SpeedyBee F405 V3 with 4-in-1 ESC stack. Firmware version 4.4.3, betaflight version 10.9.0.
I am part of a student team building a quadcopter designed to deploy from a rocket at 400 feet and return to the ground safely. We successfully completed this mission at a test launch a few weeks ago. The problem is that the final flight is at a competition, and the team may be required to leave the rocket in a launch-ready configuration on the launch pad for up to three hours. After about 20 minutes after the quadcopter has been plugged in or rebooted, the quadcopter will not arm. This is regardless of the quadcopter being fully unarmed or in prearm for these 20 minutes. This is also regardless of the transmitter being connected/awake/active during that time, or if the transmitter has been fully off and turned on before attempting connection, or anywhere in between. If the quadcopter has been on standby for 20 minutes and fails to arm, and the team reboots the speedybee by any means (physical connection with the CLI, connection via bluetooth and speedybee app, disconnecting and reconnecting the battery, etc) the quadcopter can then arm.
Okay... I had a bunch of troubleshooting steps we've taken written out, but before I posted this, a guy on my team told me that paralyze mode turns on after a certain amount of time, which is a mode that can only be disabled by power cycling. Apparently, when paralyze mode turns on via sitting for a while, this doesn't throw an arming prevention flag, which would be why it was such a pain to figure out. Temporary solution is to flip prearm once every five minutes or so to prevent this mode from engaging. Does anyone know how to stop this mode from turning on? Alternatively, does anyone know if it's possible to trigger a reboot remotely using one of the switches on our transmitter? Using a Spektrum DX8.
VERSION/STATUS/DIFF ALL (w/ some odd formatting because I copied this from a DM):
submitted by Numerous_Bat6841 to Quadcopter [link] [comments]
I am part of a student team building a quadcopter designed to deploy from a rocket at 400 feet and return to the ground safely. We successfully completed this mission at a test launch a few weeks ago. The problem is that the final flight is at a competition, and the team may be required to leave the rocket in a launch-ready configuration on the launch pad for up to three hours. After about 20 minutes after the quadcopter has been plugged in or rebooted, the quadcopter will not arm. This is regardless of the quadcopter being fully unarmed or in prearm for these 20 minutes. This is also regardless of the transmitter being connected/awake/active during that time, or if the transmitter has been fully off and turned on before attempting connection, or anywhere in between. If the quadcopter has been on standby for 20 minutes and fails to arm, and the team reboots the speedybee by any means (physical connection with the CLI, connection via bluetooth and speedybee app, disconnecting and reconnecting the battery, etc) the quadcopter can then arm.
Okay... I had a bunch of troubleshooting steps we've taken written out, but before I posted this, a guy on my team told me that paralyze mode turns on after a certain amount of time, which is a mode that can only be disabled by power cycling. Apparently, when paralyze mode turns on via sitting for a while, this doesn't throw an arming prevention flag, which would be why it was such a pain to figure out. Temporary solution is to flip prearm once every five minutes or so to prevent this mode from engaging. Does anyone know how to stop this mode from turning on? Alternatively, does anyone know if it's possible to trigger a reboot remotely using one of the switches on our transmitter? Using a Spektrum DX8.
VERSION/STATUS/DIFF ALL (w/ some odd formatting because I copied this from a DM):
version
Betaflight / STM32F405 (S405) 4.4.3 Feb 26 2024 / 01:57:10 (738127e7e) MSP API: 1.45# config: YES
board: manufacturer_id: SPBE, board_name: SPEEDYBEEF405V3
status
MCU F40X Clock=168MHz (PLLP-HSE), Vref=3.30V, Core temp=61degC Stack size: 2048, Stack address: 0x1000fff0 Configuration: CONFIGURED, size: 3944, max available: 16384 Devices detected: SPI:1, I2C:1 Gyros detected: gyro 1 locked dma GYRO=BMI270, ACC=BMI270, BARO=DPS310 OSD: NONE (126 x 181) BUILD KEY: 67ebc4c26503881609b5ba7319099d25 (4.4.3) System Uptime: 3766 seconds, Current Time: 2024-04-09T20:42:23.353+00:00 CPU:20%, cycle time: 310, GYRO rate: 3225, RX rate: 91, System rate: 9 Voltage: 2426 * 0.01V (6S battery - OK) I2C Errors: 0 SD card: Manufacturer 0x1b, 31260672kB, 03/2021, v3.0, 'EB1QT' Filesystem: Ready Arming disable flags: CLI MSPDIFF all# version
Betaflight / STM32F405 (S405) 4.4.3 Feb 26 2024 / 01:57:10 (738127e7e) MSP API: 1.45# config: YES# start the command batch
batch start# reset configuration to default settings defaults nosaveboard_name SPEEDYBEEF405V3 manufacturer_id SPBE mcu_id 0044005a323250042031394d signature# name: Cylaunch24# resources resource MOTOR 5 NONE resource SERVO 1 B00# feature feature -TELEMETRY feature -OSD feature -AIRMODE feature MOTOR_STOP feature SERVO_TILT# serial serial 4 0 115200 57600 0 115200# servo servo 0 1000 2000 1500 100 6 servo 1 1100 1900 1500 100 -1 servo 2 1100 1900 1500 100 -1 servo 3 1100 1900 1500 100 -1 servo 4 1100 1900 1500 100 -1 servo 5 1100 1900 1500 100 -1 servo 6 1100 1900 1500 100 -1 servo 7 1100 1900 1500 100 -1# beeper beeper -RX_LOST beeper -RX_LOST_LANDING beeper -DISARMING beeper -ARMING_GPS_FIX beeper -BAT_CRIT_LOW beeper -BAT_LOW beeper -GPS_STATUS beeper -RX_SET beeper -ACC_CALIBRATION_FAIL beeper -READY_BEEP beeper -DISARM_REPEAT beeper -ARMED beeper -ON_USB beeper -BLACKBOX_ERASE beeper -CRASH_FLIP beeper -CAM_CONNECTION_OPEN beeper -CAM_CONNECTION_CLOSE beeper -RC_SMOOTHING_INIT_FAIL# map map TAER1234# aux aux 0 0 0 900 1500 0 0 aux 1 1 0 900 2100 0 0 aux 2 27 1 900 1475 0 0 aux 3 36 3 1400 2100 0 0# rxfail rxfail 3 s 1525# master set acc_calibration = -24,-17,29,1 set min_check = 1160 set max_check = 1800 set serialrx_provider = SPEK2048 set rx_max_usec = 2205 set blackbox_sample_rate = 1/16 set dshot_idle_value = 500 set motor_pwm_protocol = DSHOT600 set failsafe_delay = 100 set failsafe_off_delay = 200 set failsafe_throttle = 1531 set failsafe_switch_mode = STAGE2 set failsafe_procedure = AUTO-LAND set small_angle = 180 set gps_rescue_min_start_dist = 20 set deadband = 1 set yaw_deadband = 1 set osd_canvas_width = 30 set osd_canvas_height = 13 set debug_mode = ACCELEROMETER set craft_name = Cylaunch24profile 0# profile 0 set profile_name = maybe set anti_gravity_gain = 0 set throttle_boost = 8 set p_pitch = 37 set i_pitch = 50 set d_pitch = 59 set f_pitch = 139 set i_roll = 60 set d_roll = 51 set f_roll = 168 set i_yaw = 60 set f_yaw = 168 set angle_level_strength = 30 set d_min_roll = 35 set d_min_pitch = 40 set thrust_linear = 30 set feedforward_jitter_factor = 20 set simplified_i_gain = 75 set simplified_d_gain = 120 set simplified_dmax_gain = 130 set simplified_feedforward_gain = 140 set simplified_pitch_pi_gain = 80profile 1profile 2profile 3# restore original profile selection profile 0rateprofile 0# rateprofile 0 set rateprofile_name = ballsrateprofile 1# rateprofile 1 set thr_mid = 0 set rates_type = BETAFLIGHT set roll_rc_rate = 0 ###ERROR IN diff: CORRUPTED CONFIG: roll_rc_rate = 0### set pitch_rc_rate = 0 ###ERROR IN diff: CORRUPTED CONFIG: pitch_rc_rate = 0### set yaw_rc_rate = 0 ###ERROR IN diff: CORRUPTED CONFIG: yaw_rc_rate = 0### set roll_srate = 43 set pitch_srate = 43 set yaw_srate = 43rateprofile 2rateprofile 3# restore original rateprofile selection rateprofile 0# save configuration save2024.04.05 20:45 swtogirl AITA for not giving back a bike my cousin gave me for free because he thought it was trash?
I am not the Original Poster. Posted by u/Significant_Mud2084 on AmItheAsshole and EntitledPeople
Trigger Warning: Physical violence
AITA for not giving back a bike my cousin gave me for free because he thought it was trash? May 1, 2023
About a month ago I got a free bike off my cousin. An old red beach cruiser of unknown make. I needed a bike because my last one was stolen and I'm too broke to buy a new one. My cousin then told me he had an old beat up bike in his parents' back yard, and I could have it if I wanted it. When I picked it up, it looked a mess. Covered in mud, rusty chain, nicked paint, dry cracking on the white sidewalls of the tires. There was even moss on it. But I took it anyway and thanked them.
I got it home, cleaned it up, touched up the paint with nail polish, lubed the chain with WD40, put new $7 grips on it, tightened the rear gear, cleaned most of the rust off any chrome, put on an aluminum kickstand that the bike shop tossed out as garbage, and it became my daily rider. The tubes and tires are still good, and I got it back on the road for less than $10. And honestly I like it. Rides a little bouncy, but the coaster brake is fun and it's simple and reliable.
The problem is my cousin saw me riding it last week, and at first didn't recognize it as the same bike. It was so covered in mud previously that he'd thought it was rusted over. And now he says that I scammed him, and that he wants $60 for the bike, or to give it back so he can sell it. I've refused and said he didn't want it in the first place. And I like riding it. He's calling me a jerk and telling his friends and the family I've robbed him. The family are all on my side, including his parents. But his friends think I'm a jerk. But I'm the one who put the work into fixing this bike he gave me free as trash. And I'm the one who actually uses it, unlike my cousin.
So I'm here for an unbiased opinion. AITA for not giving the bike back or giving money for it?
Edit: Yes I know WD-40 wasn't a permanent solution for the bike chain. And I will get a proper lube for it later. I only used it for the moment because I already had it on hand, and it loosens rust well because it's made for that. I needed the chain working right away as I was already using the bike to go to work a day later. WD-40 is a stated penetrating lubricant, among other things. It's just not a steady lubricant because it dries out. The chain is working fine for the moment. And I'll get the right kind of grease/lube soon.
Link to OOP's Bike May 9, 2023
My cousin punched me over the bike and got arrested May 10, 2023
This is such a mess. Many people here commented about what my cousin would probably do in retaliation. And I was naive about it, because they were exactly right. I last posted on Reddit about my cousin who gave me a junk beach cruiser bike out of his parents' back yard when my mountain bike got stolen. I cleaned up and fixed up the beach cruiser, and then suddenly my cousin wanted me to either pay him $60 for it, or give it back because he wanted to sell it after I made it purdy. But the rest of the family (Including his parents) basically told him to grow up when he tried to get them involved. Then he found out about my AITA post. One of his friends apparently saw it and told him. Either here or on a podcast or something, I don't know. But word spread around. The whole family found out because my cousin ranted to them. But none of them are angry with me. They actually sympathized with me for even feeling like I had to make the AITA post to begin with when my cousin was so clearly in the wrong. My cousin ended up freaking out over it, and confronting me on my way home from work. This time he demanded even more money for the bike. He said that since I love Reddit so much, he was taking an A-Hole tax for humiliating him. And the cost of the bike was now $80.
He ranted about how paying him $80 for the bike was the least I could do after I humiliated him. I refused and said that he was acting like a grifter, and the bike was hardly worth anything. I put in effort to make it rideable, while he let it rot in his parents' back yard for years. It was junk when I started, and I made it work. Then I listed all the things I did to fix it, and how much it would have costed the bike shop to fix it instead. He somehow still didn't see my point and still stated he wanted the money now, or he'd be taking the bike back whether I liked it or not. I told him I was done with this and tried to ride off. But he grabbed me and pulled both me and the bike over before I could ride away. I said "What the hell man!" while I was getting up, and then he actually slugged me in the face. It didn't break my nose, but really freaking hurt! And it made me bleed! Then he took my bike and rode off with it. I'm older than my cousin by two years, and taller too. But he's built way sturdier than me since his father is a bit of a husky and strong guy, and he inherited that body type. So he had no problem knocking me down and robbing me.
Someone came over to help me up, and then I called the cops. Family or no family, I wasn't about to just let him get away with doing that to me. And the altercation happened right in front of a shop with CCTV. Which the cops later got video from. I got taken to the hospital to have my face checked, and my cousin was arrested by police at his apartment. He had the bike there too, and had even already listed it for sale online. But took it down later. Thanks to something someone commented on my last post, I documented the serial numbers of the bike by photographing them and writing them down at home. So I got my bike back from the police without much issue. My cousin tried to tell police the bike was still his. But I had texts on my phone from back when he said I could have it. And lots of other text evidence of the harassment that followed. Plus his parents were there when he gave the bike to me, and the whole family knew he'd tried to grift me. So he surrendered it and the bike was returned to me at the station. My boss gave me a couple days off work to recover. The injury to my nose was thankfully minor. So I'm doing fine.
My cousin didn't get off easy though. After he was arrested, he was found to have been drinking. So now he's been charged for theft, assault, and underage drinking since he's not 21 yet. He called his parents to come bail him out, but they refused after finding out what he did to me. They came to see me after a couple days and were extremely apologetic. They said they had no idea he'd do such a jerk move to me. They also said he'd been asking for money a lot lately. And likely was spending that all on his habits. None of us have any idea where he got the alcohol, or what kind of long term punishment he's in for. But I doubt he's going to get off very lightly from this when he goes to court. I did get questioned about whether or not I can press charges. But the police already have the video of the assault and theft. And my cousin is still getting charged for under age drinking. So no one is really asking me to try and speak on his behalf. I don't really want to either.
And since I waited a few days longer to post this, my cousin is now out of jail, and his parents have learned from him that he was also behind on rent, and is now facing eviction since his lease was month to month. He was also fired from his job for being a no show since he was stuck in jail for a few days. One of my friends works in that same place too, and my cousin had already been on thin ice for bad behavior, a lot of tardiness, and repeatedly not showing up for work. So getting arrested was the last straw for his boss and he was fired. So now he's looking at misdemeanor charges, has no job, and is getting evicted. All because he had to be a jerk and a grifter. From what my parents and his parents tell me, he acted like everything was all my fault. But his parents have shut that down and chewed him out over the fact that he beat me up and stole from me. And this is karma for that. Then they made him promise to leave me alone from here on out. I've heard his parents aren't going to be letting him move back into his old room either. Instead they plan on putting him up in the loft above their garage. Which isn't exactly roomy, has plywood walls, and there's no AC up there for the summer heat.
I went back to my routine of riding the bike to and from work, and I haven't been bothered about it anymore by any of my cousin's jerk friends. In fact, they seem to have completely distanced themselves from me and anyone else I know. So none of them made any attempt to apologize. But I don't care since I don't really know them. It's just insane that all this was over a used beach cruiser. It's not even an expensive one! I'd like to ask my cousin one day if it was worth it. But I don't want to see his face again any time soon!
My cousin showed up at my door May 12, 2023
I expected not to post about my cousin again. But he came to bother me one more time yesterday. He saw my last Reddit post, and came pounding on my door. Rather than open it, I spoke to him through my window, just in case he was ready to take another swing at me. I had my phone ready and recording. He started yelling at me about how I've humiliated him, got him arrested, got him fired, and ruined his life. Then he started pounding on my door and demanding I open it so he could kick my ass.
I told him he was welcome to try. But I was recording him, and I had a baseball bat ready to use if he tried to break in. So go ahead! Make my day! He chose to back off. But was demanding I take down my Reddit posts. I told him it was too late. He had the option to be civil long ago, and I was done with him. I could care less what his so-called friends think of him. They egged him on to steal the bike from me anyway. A bike he gave to me as junk. It's not valuable just because I fixed it up. Even at the bike shop they said that unless it had new tires put on it, it was only worth about $40. Then my cousin said I should have given him $40 then.
I basically said "You gotta be kidding me! You're still saying that crap after you got yourself arrested! I should be surprised. But I'm not. I put in the work fixing up that bike on a budget because I was broke! It was worthless when you gave it to me. You didn't make it worth anything. I did! That means it's value is to me, not you! But I don't care to debate this with you anymore! You just want money any way you can get it, and I'm done! Go home and don't talk to me again until you decide you actually wanna act like an adult!". He cussed me out some more, but finally left when I said I was going to call the police if he wasn't gone by the count of five.
I decided I'm gonna file for a restraining order. I've spoken with my parents and my cousin's parents. And they all agree it's for the best to keep him away. I've already filed a police report on my cousin for threatening me, and on my next day off I'm going over to the courthouse to file for the RO. If my cousin has any brain-cells left, he'll know to stay away after getting served. Unless he wants to get even more charges added to his impending court case. His parents also threatened not to let him move into the garage loft if he goes near me again. So hopefully I won't need to post here ever again.
My cousin went to jail August 18, 2023
Well it's over. My cousin after a lot of convincing, plead guilty since he really couldn't fight any of the charges. He was brought upon theft, assault & battery, underage drinking, and harassment. He was sentenced to a few months in county jail, followed by two years probation, and anger management classes.
My cousin acted like he'd gotten so much worse as he was pretty emotional about it. Not exactly crying or angry. Just emotional. That's really the best way I can put it since I was not there to see it. He did originally try to aim for not guilty. But the public defender he got and his parents basically told him he had no chance of fighting the charges because of the clear evidence against him. There was CCTV footage of him attacking and robbing me. Cellphone footage of him showing up at my apartment to try and attack me. Screenshots of the ad he put up of the bike he stole from me. The police report on his being intoxicated from underage drinking. And all of the harassment I got from him and his friends. He really had no choice but to raise a white flag plead guilty, or he'd have possibly gotten a longer sentence.
He's sitting in county jail now. And when he gets out, he'll likely go back to living in the loft above his parents' garage. He finally gave up on blaming me since no one sided with him. All of his so-called friends ghosted him too. And he was forced to write out an apology to me by his parents. I did get the restraining order against him. But it's only good for a year. We'll see if his behavior changes and whether or not I'll need to renew it. But I want nothing to do with him for the foreseeable future. I wouldn't say dead to me. But I don't want to speak to him, let alone look at his face any time soon.
Other than that, I may as well fill in a few more details. The bike is still riding well. I put slime sealant in the tubes since one of them developed a slow leak. I found the spot with the leak, dabbed a drop of super glue onto it, then squirted a generous amount of slime into the tubes. There hasn't been a leak since. And yes, I did get a proper lube for the chain. I also re-greased the crank bearings.
Before going to jail, my cousin had a miserable time in that loft above his parents' garage. The summer heat made it very hot up there, and he had no air conditioner. Not that anyone would give him one. So he just had to use several fans. Rumor is he stole a couple of those fans, because they were clearly not new, and just appeared out of nowhere. He was broke, so the family think odds are he didn't buy them. He didn't bother looking for a new job since he knew jail was imminent. And since he's a known thief, I wouldn't doubt it if he prowled around at night taking whatever he could grab. But I'm not gonna make assumptions. I'll leave that to everyone else.
The most ironic thing is my cousin had to either walk or ride his father's bicycle if he wanted to go anywhere. He used to have a motorbike, but had to sell it because he had debts to pay. All his good stuff like his PC, gaming systems, motorbike, furniture, and even some expensive shoes he had all had to be sold. Pretty much anything he had of value was sold either online or in a garage sale. So when he gets out of jail and eventually has to find a job again, he'll have to start from square one. I didn't really have any sympathy for him. He caused all of this to happen after all. His life is gonna be screwed for a long time with jail on his resume too.
If you hear nothing from me about my cousin on this site again, then you'll know he's leaving me alone.
Update on my bike stealing cousin March 27, 2024
It's been some time since I posted. My gifting-bike-stealing cousin has been out of jail for a while now, and is serving his two year probation. Thankfully he hasn't come near me since I still have an active restraining order against him. He has found employment again. He's currently working in construction. I'm told he hates it immensely. But he's got the muscle for that line of work. He's still living in the loft above his parent's garage, and he's still paying back his remaining debts. So he doesn't have a lot of money to his name. His dad had some sympathy though, and picked up a used motor-bicycle for him to ride to work. It's just a cheap bike with a cheap engine kit on it from what I heard.
I've also heard my cousin went through some nasty stuff in jail, and came out of it with some trauma. I do know he got his ass kicked because of his attitude. But there may be more. Don't know what. I could only guess. One of my friends joked he probably dropped soap or something. Which...EWW! I do not want to think about that! Nor do I want to believe that happens in county jail. But it's not like I've ever been there.
My cousin aside from his current job, essentially has no life right now. His employment prospects are going to be screwed for years, due to his record. And while he got what he deserved, none of this would have ever happened if he'd just left me alone. He's still in anger management classes too. And probably will be for a while because he hasn't shown much improvement. No one has heard him blaming me anymore. He does seem to acknowledge he made his own bed and had to lay in it. I was basically his targeted scapegoat. But a scapegoat is only good if other people back you up about it. And no one backed him. None of his previous friends have gotten back in touch with him either. So when not at work, the most my cousin really does is hide in his loft and play video games.
As for me, I'm still riding the red beach cruiser. And it's still working fine. Haven't needed to change any tubes or tires, and I try to keep it clean. If anything, I'm kinda anal about it's upkeep. I also tend to visit the bike shop from time to time. And they gave me a free used tire with a tube already in it for when I'll eventually need to replace the rear tire on the bike. It is a coaster brake after all. And there is some wear, but not enough to worry about yet.
My riding that bike has gotten me a girlfriend though. She rides a beach cruiser too. A blue one. So we connected over a mutual like over the bikes. She also knows about everything my cousin did to me, and actually has problems with her parents being terrible people. We met because she works at a place not far from me, and we live about a mile apart. We've been going on rides together, and with friends. There's even talk of starting a bike club. Happy time for me. My cousin though, not so much. I heard from my uncle that my aunt accidentally let it slip that I got a girlfriend thanks to the bike, and my cousin went into the loft to have a fit. He probably thinks it as salt in the wound that I'm happy and he's not. But it is what it is. I do sincerely hope he gets better in time. But I don't want to see him any time soon. And I won't hesitate to involve police if he ever comes after me again.
This is a Repost Sub. I'm not OOP.
Do not contact the OOP or comment on linked posts. Remember Rule 7
submitted by swtogirl to BestofRedditorUpdates [link] [comments]
Trigger Warning: Physical violence
AITA for not giving back a bike my cousin gave me for free because he thought it was trash? May 1, 2023
About a month ago I got a free bike off my cousin. An old red beach cruiser of unknown make. I needed a bike because my last one was stolen and I'm too broke to buy a new one. My cousin then told me he had an old beat up bike in his parents' back yard, and I could have it if I wanted it. When I picked it up, it looked a mess. Covered in mud, rusty chain, nicked paint, dry cracking on the white sidewalls of the tires. There was even moss on it. But I took it anyway and thanked them.
I got it home, cleaned it up, touched up the paint with nail polish, lubed the chain with WD40, put new $7 grips on it, tightened the rear gear, cleaned most of the rust off any chrome, put on an aluminum kickstand that the bike shop tossed out as garbage, and it became my daily rider. The tubes and tires are still good, and I got it back on the road for less than $10. And honestly I like it. Rides a little bouncy, but the coaster brake is fun and it's simple and reliable.
The problem is my cousin saw me riding it last week, and at first didn't recognize it as the same bike. It was so covered in mud previously that he'd thought it was rusted over. And now he says that I scammed him, and that he wants $60 for the bike, or to give it back so he can sell it. I've refused and said he didn't want it in the first place. And I like riding it. He's calling me a jerk and telling his friends and the family I've robbed him. The family are all on my side, including his parents. But his friends think I'm a jerk. But I'm the one who put the work into fixing this bike he gave me free as trash. And I'm the one who actually uses it, unlike my cousin.
So I'm here for an unbiased opinion. AITA for not giving the bike back or giving money for it?
Edit: Yes I know WD-40 wasn't a permanent solution for the bike chain. And I will get a proper lube for it later. I only used it for the moment because I already had it on hand, and it loosens rust well because it's made for that. I needed the chain working right away as I was already using the bike to go to work a day later. WD-40 is a stated penetrating lubricant, among other things. It's just not a steady lubricant because it dries out. The chain is working fine for the moment. And I'll get the right kind of grease/lube soon.
Link to OOP's Bike May 9, 2023
My cousin punched me over the bike and got arrested May 10, 2023
This is such a mess. Many people here commented about what my cousin would probably do in retaliation. And I was naive about it, because they were exactly right. I last posted on Reddit about my cousin who gave me a junk beach cruiser bike out of his parents' back yard when my mountain bike got stolen. I cleaned up and fixed up the beach cruiser, and then suddenly my cousin wanted me to either pay him $60 for it, or give it back because he wanted to sell it after I made it purdy. But the rest of the family (Including his parents) basically told him to grow up when he tried to get them involved. Then he found out about my AITA post. One of his friends apparently saw it and told him. Either here or on a podcast or something, I don't know. But word spread around. The whole family found out because my cousin ranted to them. But none of them are angry with me. They actually sympathized with me for even feeling like I had to make the AITA post to begin with when my cousin was so clearly in the wrong. My cousin ended up freaking out over it, and confronting me on my way home from work. This time he demanded even more money for the bike. He said that since I love Reddit so much, he was taking an A-Hole tax for humiliating him. And the cost of the bike was now $80.
He ranted about how paying him $80 for the bike was the least I could do after I humiliated him. I refused and said that he was acting like a grifter, and the bike was hardly worth anything. I put in effort to make it rideable, while he let it rot in his parents' back yard for years. It was junk when I started, and I made it work. Then I listed all the things I did to fix it, and how much it would have costed the bike shop to fix it instead. He somehow still didn't see my point and still stated he wanted the money now, or he'd be taking the bike back whether I liked it or not. I told him I was done with this and tried to ride off. But he grabbed me and pulled both me and the bike over before I could ride away. I said "What the hell man!" while I was getting up, and then he actually slugged me in the face. It didn't break my nose, but really freaking hurt! And it made me bleed! Then he took my bike and rode off with it. I'm older than my cousin by two years, and taller too. But he's built way sturdier than me since his father is a bit of a husky and strong guy, and he inherited that body type. So he had no problem knocking me down and robbing me.
Someone came over to help me up, and then I called the cops. Family or no family, I wasn't about to just let him get away with doing that to me. And the altercation happened right in front of a shop with CCTV. Which the cops later got video from. I got taken to the hospital to have my face checked, and my cousin was arrested by police at his apartment. He had the bike there too, and had even already listed it for sale online. But took it down later. Thanks to something someone commented on my last post, I documented the serial numbers of the bike by photographing them and writing them down at home. So I got my bike back from the police without much issue. My cousin tried to tell police the bike was still his. But I had texts on my phone from back when he said I could have it. And lots of other text evidence of the harassment that followed. Plus his parents were there when he gave the bike to me, and the whole family knew he'd tried to grift me. So he surrendered it and the bike was returned to me at the station. My boss gave me a couple days off work to recover. The injury to my nose was thankfully minor. So I'm doing fine.
My cousin didn't get off easy though. After he was arrested, he was found to have been drinking. So now he's been charged for theft, assault, and underage drinking since he's not 21 yet. He called his parents to come bail him out, but they refused after finding out what he did to me. They came to see me after a couple days and were extremely apologetic. They said they had no idea he'd do such a jerk move to me. They also said he'd been asking for money a lot lately. And likely was spending that all on his habits. None of us have any idea where he got the alcohol, or what kind of long term punishment he's in for. But I doubt he's going to get off very lightly from this when he goes to court. I did get questioned about whether or not I can press charges. But the police already have the video of the assault and theft. And my cousin is still getting charged for under age drinking. So no one is really asking me to try and speak on his behalf. I don't really want to either.
And since I waited a few days longer to post this, my cousin is now out of jail, and his parents have learned from him that he was also behind on rent, and is now facing eviction since his lease was month to month. He was also fired from his job for being a no show since he was stuck in jail for a few days. One of my friends works in that same place too, and my cousin had already been on thin ice for bad behavior, a lot of tardiness, and repeatedly not showing up for work. So getting arrested was the last straw for his boss and he was fired. So now he's looking at misdemeanor charges, has no job, and is getting evicted. All because he had to be a jerk and a grifter. From what my parents and his parents tell me, he acted like everything was all my fault. But his parents have shut that down and chewed him out over the fact that he beat me up and stole from me. And this is karma for that. Then they made him promise to leave me alone from here on out. I've heard his parents aren't going to be letting him move back into his old room either. Instead they plan on putting him up in the loft above their garage. Which isn't exactly roomy, has plywood walls, and there's no AC up there for the summer heat.
I went back to my routine of riding the bike to and from work, and I haven't been bothered about it anymore by any of my cousin's jerk friends. In fact, they seem to have completely distanced themselves from me and anyone else I know. So none of them made any attempt to apologize. But I don't care since I don't really know them. It's just insane that all this was over a used beach cruiser. It's not even an expensive one! I'd like to ask my cousin one day if it was worth it. But I don't want to see his face again any time soon!
My cousin showed up at my door May 12, 2023
I expected not to post about my cousin again. But he came to bother me one more time yesterday. He saw my last Reddit post, and came pounding on my door. Rather than open it, I spoke to him through my window, just in case he was ready to take another swing at me. I had my phone ready and recording. He started yelling at me about how I've humiliated him, got him arrested, got him fired, and ruined his life. Then he started pounding on my door and demanding I open it so he could kick my ass.
I told him he was welcome to try. But I was recording him, and I had a baseball bat ready to use if he tried to break in. So go ahead! Make my day! He chose to back off. But was demanding I take down my Reddit posts. I told him it was too late. He had the option to be civil long ago, and I was done with him. I could care less what his so-called friends think of him. They egged him on to steal the bike from me anyway. A bike he gave to me as junk. It's not valuable just because I fixed it up. Even at the bike shop they said that unless it had new tires put on it, it was only worth about $40. Then my cousin said I should have given him $40 then.
I basically said "You gotta be kidding me! You're still saying that crap after you got yourself arrested! I should be surprised. But I'm not. I put in the work fixing up that bike on a budget because I was broke! It was worthless when you gave it to me. You didn't make it worth anything. I did! That means it's value is to me, not you! But I don't care to debate this with you anymore! You just want money any way you can get it, and I'm done! Go home and don't talk to me again until you decide you actually wanna act like an adult!". He cussed me out some more, but finally left when I said I was going to call the police if he wasn't gone by the count of five.
I decided I'm gonna file for a restraining order. I've spoken with my parents and my cousin's parents. And they all agree it's for the best to keep him away. I've already filed a police report on my cousin for threatening me, and on my next day off I'm going over to the courthouse to file for the RO. If my cousin has any brain-cells left, he'll know to stay away after getting served. Unless he wants to get even more charges added to his impending court case. His parents also threatened not to let him move into the garage loft if he goes near me again. So hopefully I won't need to post here ever again.
My cousin went to jail August 18, 2023
Well it's over. My cousin after a lot of convincing, plead guilty since he really couldn't fight any of the charges. He was brought upon theft, assault & battery, underage drinking, and harassment. He was sentenced to a few months in county jail, followed by two years probation, and anger management classes.
My cousin acted like he'd gotten so much worse as he was pretty emotional about it. Not exactly crying or angry. Just emotional. That's really the best way I can put it since I was not there to see it. He did originally try to aim for not guilty. But the public defender he got and his parents basically told him he had no chance of fighting the charges because of the clear evidence against him. There was CCTV footage of him attacking and robbing me. Cellphone footage of him showing up at my apartment to try and attack me. Screenshots of the ad he put up of the bike he stole from me. The police report on his being intoxicated from underage drinking. And all of the harassment I got from him and his friends. He really had no choice but to raise a white flag plead guilty, or he'd have possibly gotten a longer sentence.
He's sitting in county jail now. And when he gets out, he'll likely go back to living in the loft above his parents' garage. He finally gave up on blaming me since no one sided with him. All of his so-called friends ghosted him too. And he was forced to write out an apology to me by his parents. I did get the restraining order against him. But it's only good for a year. We'll see if his behavior changes and whether or not I'll need to renew it. But I want nothing to do with him for the foreseeable future. I wouldn't say dead to me. But I don't want to speak to him, let alone look at his face any time soon.
Other than that, I may as well fill in a few more details. The bike is still riding well. I put slime sealant in the tubes since one of them developed a slow leak. I found the spot with the leak, dabbed a drop of super glue onto it, then squirted a generous amount of slime into the tubes. There hasn't been a leak since. And yes, I did get a proper lube for the chain. I also re-greased the crank bearings.
Before going to jail, my cousin had a miserable time in that loft above his parents' garage. The summer heat made it very hot up there, and he had no air conditioner. Not that anyone would give him one. So he just had to use several fans. Rumor is he stole a couple of those fans, because they were clearly not new, and just appeared out of nowhere. He was broke, so the family think odds are he didn't buy them. He didn't bother looking for a new job since he knew jail was imminent. And since he's a known thief, I wouldn't doubt it if he prowled around at night taking whatever he could grab. But I'm not gonna make assumptions. I'll leave that to everyone else.
The most ironic thing is my cousin had to either walk or ride his father's bicycle if he wanted to go anywhere. He used to have a motorbike, but had to sell it because he had debts to pay. All his good stuff like his PC, gaming systems, motorbike, furniture, and even some expensive shoes he had all had to be sold. Pretty much anything he had of value was sold either online or in a garage sale. So when he gets out of jail and eventually has to find a job again, he'll have to start from square one. I didn't really have any sympathy for him. He caused all of this to happen after all. His life is gonna be screwed for a long time with jail on his resume too.
If you hear nothing from me about my cousin on this site again, then you'll know he's leaving me alone.
Update on my bike stealing cousin March 27, 2024
It's been some time since I posted. My gifting-bike-stealing cousin has been out of jail for a while now, and is serving his two year probation. Thankfully he hasn't come near me since I still have an active restraining order against him. He has found employment again. He's currently working in construction. I'm told he hates it immensely. But he's got the muscle for that line of work. He's still living in the loft above his parent's garage, and he's still paying back his remaining debts. So he doesn't have a lot of money to his name. His dad had some sympathy though, and picked up a used motor-bicycle for him to ride to work. It's just a cheap bike with a cheap engine kit on it from what I heard.
I've also heard my cousin went through some nasty stuff in jail, and came out of it with some trauma. I do know he got his ass kicked because of his attitude. But there may be more. Don't know what. I could only guess. One of my friends joked he probably dropped soap or something. Which...EWW! I do not want to think about that! Nor do I want to believe that happens in county jail. But it's not like I've ever been there.
My cousin aside from his current job, essentially has no life right now. His employment prospects are going to be screwed for years, due to his record. And while he got what he deserved, none of this would have ever happened if he'd just left me alone. He's still in anger management classes too. And probably will be for a while because he hasn't shown much improvement. No one has heard him blaming me anymore. He does seem to acknowledge he made his own bed and had to lay in it. I was basically his targeted scapegoat. But a scapegoat is only good if other people back you up about it. And no one backed him. None of his previous friends have gotten back in touch with him either. So when not at work, the most my cousin really does is hide in his loft and play video games.
As for me, I'm still riding the red beach cruiser. And it's still working fine. Haven't needed to change any tubes or tires, and I try to keep it clean. If anything, I'm kinda anal about it's upkeep. I also tend to visit the bike shop from time to time. And they gave me a free used tire with a tube already in it for when I'll eventually need to replace the rear tire on the bike. It is a coaster brake after all. And there is some wear, but not enough to worry about yet.
My riding that bike has gotten me a girlfriend though. She rides a beach cruiser too. A blue one. So we connected over a mutual like over the bikes. She also knows about everything my cousin did to me, and actually has problems with her parents being terrible people. We met because she works at a place not far from me, and we live about a mile apart. We've been going on rides together, and with friends. There's even talk of starting a bike club. Happy time for me. My cousin though, not so much. I heard from my uncle that my aunt accidentally let it slip that I got a girlfriend thanks to the bike, and my cousin went into the loft to have a fit. He probably thinks it as salt in the wound that I'm happy and he's not. But it is what it is. I do sincerely hope he gets better in time. But I don't want to see him any time soon. And I won't hesitate to involve police if he ever comes after me again.
This is a Repost Sub. I'm not OOP.
Do not contact the OOP or comment on linked posts. Remember Rule 7
2024.04.05 05:17 Androxilogin [H] Tons of stuff again [W] Fashion Police Squad, Coromon, The Excavation of Hob's Barrow, Prodeus/PayPal.
THREAD CLOSED
Unless there is a possible trade for The Excavation of Hob's Barrow I'm not interested. Thanks everyone, I need to recalculate inventory so everyone gets what they want and people aren't paying for things I don't have.Based in the USA.Do NOT send instant chat messages or you will be blocked. PM messages ONLY. You must also comment on the post below in order to establish confirmation!
Currently ONLY interested in:
The Excavation of Hob's Barrow
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2024.04.02 00:50 TheSamayan Why is my LoRa disconnected?
I have the following problem.
I am working with a LoRa Ra-02 Module, and I am using it as a transmitter receiver, the receiver has the task of moving 6 motres DC of 12V, for this I am using a 16-channel relay module, and with the relay modules, I am creating H bridges that allow me to control the rotation of the engine
Well, the relay module, to activate its coils, takes care of 12v, so the module has its own source of 12, likewise, the motors have their 12V power supply and the arduino is connected by the computer
What happens is the following, the relay module, without connecting the motors, works perfectly, it is controlled by the Arduino with the LoRa and without losing data, however, once the power source of the motors has been connected, and when trying To control the motors, the LoRa module loses connection and I don't explain myself because, if the module has a part of power that isolates the Arduino. It should be noted that these are linear motors.
Idk if it is problem of the code or the LoRa, maybe should be the relay module.
The code i am using is the next:
submitted by TheSamayan to Lora [link] [comments]
I am working with a LoRa Ra-02 Module, and I am using it as a transmitter receiver, the receiver has the task of moving 6 motres DC of 12V, for this I am using a 16-channel relay module, and with the relay modules, I am creating H bridges that allow me to control the rotation of the engine
Well, the relay module, to activate its coils, takes care of 12v, so the module has its own source of 12, likewise, the motors have their 12V power supply and the arduino is connected by the computer
What happens is the following, the relay module, without connecting the motors, works perfectly, it is controlled by the Arduino with the LoRa and without losing data, however, once the power source of the motors has been connected, and when trying To control the motors, the LoRa module loses connection and I don't explain myself because, if the module has a part of power that isolates the Arduino. It should be noted that these are linear motors.
Idk if it is problem of the code or the LoRa, maybe should be the relay module.
The code i am using is the next:
#include#include #include #include int rly1 = 14; int rly2 = 15; bool ON = 0; bool OFF = 1; char direc = 'r'; String outgoing; byte msgCount = 0; String Mymessage = ""; byte localAddress = 0xBB; byte destination = 0xFF; unsigned long previousMillis = 0; const unsigned long interval = 1000; void setup() { // put your setup code here, to run once: Serial.begin(9600); LoRa.setPins(53, 49); //NSS, RST if (!LoRa.begin(433E6)) { Serial.println("LoRa init failed. Check your connections."); while (true); // if failed, do nothing } Serial.println("LoRa init succeeded"); LoRa.setTxPower(13); LoRa.setSignalBandwidth(250E3); LoRa.setSpreadingFactor(7); LoRa.setCodingRate4(5); LoRa.setPreambleLength(12); pinMode(rly1, OUTPUT); pinMode(rly2, OUTPUT); digitalWrite(rly1, OFF); digitalWrite(rly2, OFF); } void sendMessage(String outgoing) { LoRa.beginPacket(); // start packet LoRa.write(destination); // add destination address LoRa.write(localAddress); // add sender address LoRa.write(msgCount); // add message ID LoRa.write(outgoing.length()); // add payload length LoRa.print(outgoing); // add payload LoRa.endPacket(); // finish packet and send it msgCount++; // increment message ID } String getValue(String data, char separator, int index) { int found = 0; int strIndex[] = {0, -1}; int maxIndex = data.length() - 1; for (int i = 0; i <= maxIndex && found <= index; i++) { if (data.charAt(i) == separator i == maxIndex) { found++; strIndex[0] = strIndex[1] + 1; strIndex[1] = (i == maxIndex) ? i + 1 : i; } } return found > index ? data.substring(strIndex[0], strIndex[1]) : ""; } void eje1(char direccion){ if(direccion == 'r'){ digitalWrite(rly1, OFF); digitalWrite(rly2, ON); }else if(direccion =='l'){ digitalWrite(rly2, OFF); digitalWrite(rly1, ON); }else{ digitalWrite(rly2, OFF); digitalWrite(rly1, OFF); } } /* void eje2(char direccion){ if(direccion == 'r'){ digitalWrite(rly3, OFF); digitalWrite(rly4, ON); }else if(direccion =='l'){ digitalWrite(rly4, OFF); digitalWrite(rly3, ON); }else{ digitalWrite(rly4, OFF); digitalWrite(rly3, OFF); } } void eje3(char direccion){ if(direccion == 'r'){ digitalWrite(rly5, OFF); digitalWrite(rly6, ON); }else if(direccion =='l'){ digitalWrite(rly6, OFF); digitalWrite(rly5, ON); }else{ digitalWrite(rly6, OFF); digitalWrite(rly5, OFF); } } void eje4(char direccion){ if(direccion == 'r'){ digitalWrite(rly7, OFF); digitalWrite(rly8, ON); }else if(direccion =='l'){ digitalWrite(rly8, OFF); digitalWrite(rly7, ON); }else{ digitalWrite(rly8, OFF); digitalWrite(rly7, OFF); } } void eje5(char direccion){ if(direccion == 'r'){ digitalWrite(rly9, OFF); digitalWrite(rly10, ON); }else if(direccion =='l'){ digitalWrite(rly10, OFF); digitalWrite(rly9, ON); }else{ digitalWrite(rly10, OFF); digitalWrite(rly9, OFF); } } void eje6(char direccion){ if(direccion == 'r'){ digitalWrite(rly11, OFF); digitalWrite(rly12, ON); }else if(direccion =='l'){ digitalWrite(rly12, OFF); digitalWrite(rly11, ON); }else{ digitalWrite(rly12, OFF); digitalWrite(rly11, OFF); } } */ void onReceive(int packetSize) { if (packetSize == 0){ return; // if there's no packet, return } // read packet header bytes: int recipient = LoRa.read(); // recipient address byte sender = LoRa.read(); // sender address byte incomingMsgId = LoRa.read(); // incoming msg ID byte incomingLength = LoRa.read(); // incoming msg length String incoming = ""; while (LoRa.available()) { incoming += (char)LoRa.read(); } if (incomingLength != incoming.length()) { // check length for error Serial.println("error: message length does not match length"); return; // skip rest of function } // if the recipient isn't this device or broadcast, if (recipient != localAddress && recipient != 0xBB) { Serial.println("This message is not for me."); return; // skip rest of function } Serial.println("Message: " + incoming); //-----------Lógica del programa-------------- //Para poder obtener el valor que se ocupa, se utiliza la función: // = getValue(incoming, ',', LugarDeDato); //Después se tiene que pasar a enteron con: // = .toInt(); String p0=getValue(incoming, ',',0); String p1=getValue(incoming, ',',1); String p2=getValue(incoming, ',',2); String p3=getValue(incoming, ',',3); String p4=getValue(incoming, ',',4); String p5=getValue(incoming, ',',5); String p6=getValue(incoming, ',',6); String p7=getValue(incoming, ',',7); String p8=getValue(incoming, ',',8); String p9=getValue(incoming, ',',9); String p10=getValue(incoming, ',',10); String p11=getValue(incoming, ',',11); String p12=getValue(incoming, ',',12); String p13=getValue(incoming, ',',13); String p14=getValue(incoming, ',',14); String p15=getValue(incoming, ',',15); String p16=getValue(incoming, ',',16); String p17=getValue(incoming, ',',17); String p18=getValue(incoming, ',',18); int SlicePot = p0.toInt(); int joy1_V = p1.toInt(); int joy1_H = p2.toInt(); int db7 = p3.toInt(); int ub7 = p4.toInt(); int ub8 = p5.toInt(); int db8 = p6.toInt(); int db6 = p7.toInt(); int ub6 = p8.toInt(); int ub5 = p9.toInt(); int db5 = p10.toInt(); int db1 = p11.toInt(); int ub1 = p12.toInt(); int db2 = p13.toInt(); int ub2 = p14.toInt(); int db3 = p15.toInt(); int ub3 = p16.toInt(); int db4 = p17.toInt(); int ub4 = p18.toInt(); // EJE 1 BRAZO <--// /*if(db1 == HIGH && ub1 == LOW){ eje1('r'); } else if(ub1 == HIGH && db1 == LOW){ eje1('l'); } else{ eje1('s'); } // EJE 2 BRAZO <--// if(db2 == HIGH){ eje2('r'); } else if(ub2 == HIGH){ eje2('l'); } else{ eje2('s'); } // EJE 3 BRAZO <--// if(db3 == HIGH){ eje3('r'); } else if(ub3 == HIGH){ eje3('l'); } else{ eje3('s'); } // EJE 4 BRAZO <--// if(db4 == HIGH){ eje4('r'); } else if(ub4 == HIGH){ eje4('l'); } else{ eje4('s'); } // EJE 5 BRAZO <--// if(db5 == HIGH){ eje5('r'); } else if(ub5 == HIGH){ eje5('l'); } else{ eje5('s'); } // EJE 6 BRAZO <--// if(db6 == HIGH){ eje6('r'); } else if(ub6 == HIGH){ eje6('l'); } else{ eje6('s'); } */ } void loop() { onReceive(LoRa.parsePacket()); unsigned long currentMillis = millis(); // Obtiene el tiempo actual en milisegundos // Verifica si ha pasado el intervalo de tiempo deseado if (currentMillis - previousMillis >= interval) { // Guarda el tiempo actual como referencia para la próxima vez previousMillis = currentMillis; // Llama a la función con la dirección actual eje1(direc); // Cambia la dirección para la siguiente acción if (direc == 'r') { direc = 'l'; // Cambia a 'l' si estaba en 'r' } else if (direc == 'l') { direc = 's'; // Cambia a 's' si estaba en 'l' } else { direc = 'r'; // Cambia a 'r' si estaba en 's' (o cualquier otro valor) } } }
2024.03.26 23:10 legotrain333 Stepper motor help
So I recently did a new klipper installation for my ender three running a big tree tech SKR mini three board with a Sprite pro extruder kit and a Cr touch and on my old klipper installation for this exact configuration (which I lost the printer config file for) the stepper motors are now making a whining noise which they did not before could you guys advise me on what to fix.
Here is my printer.cfg.
[include mainsail.cfg]
[include Macro.cfg]
[temperature_sensor mcu_temp]
sensor_type: temperature_mcu
min_temp: 0
max_temp: 100
# printer.cfg
# restart_method: command
[gcode_macro SET_ACTIVE_SPOOL]
gcode:
{% if params.ID %}
{% set id = params.IDint %}
{action_call_remote_method(
"spoolman_set_active_spool",
spool_id=id
)}
{% else %}
{action_respond_info("Parameter 'ID' is required")}
{% endif %}
[gcode_macro CLEAR_ACTIVE_SPOOL]
gcode:
{action_call_remote_method(
"spoolman_set_active_spool",
spool_id=None
)}
[virtual_sdcard]
path: /home/pi/printer_data/gcodes
on_error_gcode: CANCEL_PRINT
[exclude_object]
[include KAMP_Settings.cfg]
[gcode_shell_command qrcode_qrscanner]
## NOTE: Change the path below if your klipper config is not in the default path ##
command: sh /home/pi/printer_data/config/qrcodespoolman.sh
verbose: True
timeout: 2.
[gcode_macro QRCode_Scan]
gcode:
RUN_SHELL_COMMAND CMD=qrcode_qrscanner
[screws_tilt_adjust]
screw1: 59.00,86.00
screw1_name: front left screw
screw2: 229.00, 86.00
screw2_name: front right screw
screw3: 229.00, 235.00
screw3_name: rear right screw
screw4: 59.00, 235.00
screw4_name: rear left screw
horizontal_move_z: 10
speed: 50
screw_thread: CW-M3 #measure the diameter of your adjustment screw
#To mesh level the bed run: BED_MESH_CALIBRATE followed by SAVE_CONFIG
# This file contains common pin mappings for the BIGTREETECH SKR mini
# E3 v2.0. To use this config, the firmware should be compiled for the
# STM32F103 with a "28KiB bootloader" and USB communication. Also,
# select "Enable extra low-level configuration options" and configure
# "GPIO pins to set at micro-controller startup" to "!PA14".
# The "make flash" command does not work on the SKR mini E3. Instead,
# after running "make", copy the generated "out/klipper.bin" file to a
# file named "firmware.bin" on an SD card and then restart the SKR
# mini E3 with that SD card.
# See docs/Config_Reference.md for a description of parameters.
## cr-touch settings
[bltouch]
sensor_pin: ^PC14
control_pin: PA1
x_offset: -31.8
y_offset: -40.5
#z_offset: 3.499
probe_with_touch_mode: true
stow_on_each_sample: false
# https://gist.github.com/joshschools/b642dd4355cf38edbb5310b1f385e37c
pin_move_time: 0.5
pin_up_touch_mode_reports_triggered: False
speed: 10
lift_speed: 20
samples: 3
sample_retract_dist: 5
samples_tolerance_retries: 3
[bed_mesh]
speed: 120
mesh_min: 20, 20
mesh_max: 180, 180
probe_count: 4,4
algorithm: bicubic
[safe_z_home]
home_xy_position: 147, 154
speed: 75
z_hop: 5
z_hop_speed: 5
move_to_previous: true
[stepper_x]
step_pin: PB13
dir_pin: !PB12
enable_pin: !PB14
microsteps: 64
rotation_distance: 40
endstop_pin: ^PC0
position_endstop: 0
position_min: 0
position_max: 230
homing_speed: 50
[tmc2209 stepper_x]
uart_pin: PC11
tx_pin: PC10
uart_address: 0
run_current: 0.580
interpolate: False
stealthchop_threshold: 0
[stepper_y]
step_pin: PB10
dir_pin: !PB2
enable_pin: !PB11
microsteps: 64
rotation_distance: 40
endstop_pin: ^PC1
position_endstop: -12
position_min: -12
position_max: 230
homing_speed: 50
[tmc2209 stepper_y]
uart_pin: PC11
tx_pin: PC10
uart_address: 2
run_current: 0.580
interpolate: False
stealthchop_threshold: 0
[stepper_z]
step_pin: PB0
dir_pin: PC5
enable_pin: !PB1
microsteps: 64
rotation_distance: 8
# endstop_pin: ^PC2
# position_endstop: 0.0
endstop_pin: probe:z_virtual_endstop
position_min: -4
position_max: 250
[tmc2209 stepper_z]
uart_pin: PC11
tx_pin: PC10
uart_address: 1
run_current: 0.580
interpolate: False
stealthchop_threshold: 0
[extruder]
step_pin: PB3
dir_pin: !PB4
enable_pin: !PD1
microsteps: 16
gear_ratio: 3.5:1
rotation_distance: 26.2931025
nozzle_diameter: 0.400
filament_diameter: 1.750
max_extrude_only_distance: 200
pressure_advance: 0.04
pressure_advance_smooth_time: 0.040
max_extrude_cross_section: 5
heater_pin: PC8
sensor_type: EPCOS 100K B57560G104F
sensor_pin: PA0
control: pid
pid_Kp: 21.527
pid_Ki: 1.063
pid_Kd: 108.982
min_temp: 0
max_temp: 260
[tmc2209 extruder]
uart_pin: PC11
tx_pin: PC10
uart_address: 3
run_current: 0.580
interpolate: False
stealthchop_threshold: 0
[heater_bed]
heater_pin: PC9
sensor_type: EPCOS 100K B57560G104F
sensor_pin: PC4
control: pid
pid_Kp: 54.027
pid_Ki: 0.770
pid_Kd: 948.182
min_temp: 0
max_temp: 130
[heater_fan hotend_fan]
pin: PC6
heater: extruder
heater_temp: 50.0
[controller_fan electronic_enclosure_fan]
pin: PC7
idle_timeout: 60
[fan]
pin: PB15
[mcu]
serial: /dev/serial/by-id/usb-Klipper_stm32g0b1xx_40004F000F50415833323520-if00
# serial: /dev/ttyAMA0
# restart_method: command
[printer]
kinematics: cartesian
max_velocity: 300
max_accel: 3000
max_z_velocity: 5
max_z_accel: 100
[board_pins]
aliases:
# EXP1 header
EXP1_1=PB15, EXP1_3=PA9, EXP1_5=PA10, EXP1_7=PD2, EXP1_9=,
EXP1_2=PB14, EXP1_4=, EXP1_6=PB4, EXP1_8=PC0, EXP1_10=<5V>
######################################################################
# BigTreeTech TFT TouchScreen emulated 12864 mode
######################################################################
[display]
lcd_type: emulated_st7920
spi_software_miso_pin: PD8 # status led, Virtual MISO
spi_software_mosi_pin: PD6
spi_software_sclk_pin: PB9
en_pin: PB8
encoder_pins: ^PA10, ^PA9
click_pin: ^!PA15
[output_pin beeper]
pin: PB5
#*# <---------------------- SAVE_CONFIG --------------------
#*# DO NOT EDIT THIS BLOCK OR BELOW. The contents are auto-generated.
#*#
#*# [bed_mesh default]
#*# version = 1
#*# points =
#*# -0.015833, -0.043542, -0.022083, -0.148125
#*# -0.023958, -0.025417, -0.017292, -0.148958
#*# 0.035417, 0.028750, 0.048125, -0.085417
#*# 0.091458, 0.114792, 0.130000, 0.017917
#*# x_count = 4
#*# y_count = 4
#*# mesh_x_pps = 2
#*# mesh_y_pps = 2
#*# algo = lagrange
#*# tension = 0.2
#*# min_x = 19.999999999999996
#*# max_x = 179.98999999999998
#*# min_y = 20.0
#*# max_y = 179.99
#*#
#*# [bltouch]
#*# z_offset = 1.354
submitted by legotrain333 to klippers [link] [comments]
Here is my printer.cfg.
[include mainsail.cfg]
[include Macro.cfg]
[temperature_sensor mcu_temp]
sensor_type: temperature_mcu
min_temp: 0
max_temp: 100
# printer.cfg
# restart_method: command
[gcode_macro SET_ACTIVE_SPOOL]
gcode:
{% if params.ID %}
{% set id = params.IDint %}
{action_call_remote_method(
"spoolman_set_active_spool",
spool_id=id
)}
{% else %}
{action_respond_info("Parameter 'ID' is required")}
{% endif %}
[gcode_macro CLEAR_ACTIVE_SPOOL]
gcode:
{action_call_remote_method(
"spoolman_set_active_spool",
spool_id=None
)}
[virtual_sdcard]
path: /home/pi/printer_data/gcodes
on_error_gcode: CANCEL_PRINT
[exclude_object]
[include KAMP_Settings.cfg]
[gcode_shell_command qrcode_qrscanner]
## NOTE: Change the path below if your klipper config is not in the default path ##
command: sh /home/pi/printer_data/config/qrcodespoolman.sh
verbose: True
timeout: 2.
[gcode_macro QRCode_Scan]
gcode:
RUN_SHELL_COMMAND CMD=qrcode_qrscanner
[screws_tilt_adjust]
screw1: 59.00,86.00
screw1_name: front left screw
screw2: 229.00, 86.00
screw2_name: front right screw
screw3: 229.00, 235.00
screw3_name: rear right screw
screw4: 59.00, 235.00
screw4_name: rear left screw
horizontal_move_z: 10
speed: 50
screw_thread: CW-M3 #measure the diameter of your adjustment screw
#To mesh level the bed run: BED_MESH_CALIBRATE followed by SAVE_CONFIG
# This file contains common pin mappings for the BIGTREETECH SKR mini
# E3 v2.0. To use this config, the firmware should be compiled for the
# STM32F103 with a "28KiB bootloader" and USB communication. Also,
# select "Enable extra low-level configuration options" and configure
# "GPIO pins to set at micro-controller startup" to "!PA14".
# The "make flash" command does not work on the SKR mini E3. Instead,
# after running "make", copy the generated "out/klipper.bin" file to a
# file named "firmware.bin" on an SD card and then restart the SKR
# mini E3 with that SD card.
# See docs/Config_Reference.md for a description of parameters.
## cr-touch settings
[bltouch]
sensor_pin: ^PC14
control_pin: PA1
x_offset: -31.8
y_offset: -40.5
#z_offset: 3.499
probe_with_touch_mode: true
stow_on_each_sample: false
# https://gist.github.com/joshschools/b642dd4355cf38edbb5310b1f385e37c
pin_move_time: 0.5
pin_up_touch_mode_reports_triggered: False
speed: 10
lift_speed: 20
samples: 3
sample_retract_dist: 5
samples_tolerance_retries: 3
[bed_mesh]
speed: 120
mesh_min: 20, 20
mesh_max: 180, 180
probe_count: 4,4
algorithm: bicubic
[safe_z_home]
home_xy_position: 147, 154
speed: 75
z_hop: 5
z_hop_speed: 5
move_to_previous: true
[stepper_x]
step_pin: PB13
dir_pin: !PB12
enable_pin: !PB14
microsteps: 64
rotation_distance: 40
endstop_pin: ^PC0
position_endstop: 0
position_min: 0
position_max: 230
homing_speed: 50
[tmc2209 stepper_x]
uart_pin: PC11
tx_pin: PC10
uart_address: 0
run_current: 0.580
interpolate: False
stealthchop_threshold: 0
[stepper_y]
step_pin: PB10
dir_pin: !PB2
enable_pin: !PB11
microsteps: 64
rotation_distance: 40
endstop_pin: ^PC1
position_endstop: -12
position_min: -12
position_max: 230
homing_speed: 50
[tmc2209 stepper_y]
uart_pin: PC11
tx_pin: PC10
uart_address: 2
run_current: 0.580
interpolate: False
stealthchop_threshold: 0
[stepper_z]
step_pin: PB0
dir_pin: PC5
enable_pin: !PB1
microsteps: 64
rotation_distance: 8
# endstop_pin: ^PC2
# position_endstop: 0.0
endstop_pin: probe:z_virtual_endstop
position_min: -4
position_max: 250
[tmc2209 stepper_z]
uart_pin: PC11
tx_pin: PC10
uart_address: 1
run_current: 0.580
interpolate: False
stealthchop_threshold: 0
[extruder]
step_pin: PB3
dir_pin: !PB4
enable_pin: !PD1
microsteps: 16
gear_ratio: 3.5:1
rotation_distance: 26.2931025
nozzle_diameter: 0.400
filament_diameter: 1.750
max_extrude_only_distance: 200
pressure_advance: 0.04
pressure_advance_smooth_time: 0.040
max_extrude_cross_section: 5
heater_pin: PC8
sensor_type: EPCOS 100K B57560G104F
sensor_pin: PA0
control: pid
pid_Kp: 21.527
pid_Ki: 1.063
pid_Kd: 108.982
min_temp: 0
max_temp: 260
[tmc2209 extruder]
uart_pin: PC11
tx_pin: PC10
uart_address: 3
run_current: 0.580
interpolate: False
stealthchop_threshold: 0
[heater_bed]
heater_pin: PC9
sensor_type: EPCOS 100K B57560G104F
sensor_pin: PC4
control: pid
pid_Kp: 54.027
pid_Ki: 0.770
pid_Kd: 948.182
min_temp: 0
max_temp: 130
[heater_fan hotend_fan]
pin: PC6
heater: extruder
heater_temp: 50.0
[controller_fan electronic_enclosure_fan]
pin: PC7
idle_timeout: 60
[fan]
pin: PB15
[mcu]
serial: /dev/serial/by-id/usb-Klipper_stm32g0b1xx_40004F000F50415833323520-if00
# serial: /dev/ttyAMA0
# restart_method: command
[printer]
kinematics: cartesian
max_velocity: 300
max_accel: 3000
max_z_velocity: 5
max_z_accel: 100
[board_pins]
aliases:
# EXP1 header
EXP1_1=PB15, EXP1_3=PA9, EXP1_5=PA10, EXP1_7=PD2, EXP1_9=
EXP1_2=PB14, EXP1_4=
######################################################################
# BigTreeTech TFT TouchScreen emulated 12864 mode
######################################################################
[display]
lcd_type: emulated_st7920
spi_software_miso_pin: PD8 # status led, Virtual MISO
spi_software_mosi_pin: PD6
spi_software_sclk_pin: PB9
en_pin: PB8
encoder_pins: ^PA10, ^PA9
click_pin: ^!PA15
[output_pin beeper]
pin: PB5
#*# <---------------------- SAVE_CONFIG --------------------
#*# DO NOT EDIT THIS BLOCK OR BELOW. The contents are auto-generated.
#*#
#*# [bed_mesh default]
#*# version = 1
#*# points =
#*# -0.015833, -0.043542, -0.022083, -0.148125
#*# -0.023958, -0.025417, -0.017292, -0.148958
#*# 0.035417, 0.028750, 0.048125, -0.085417
#*# 0.091458, 0.114792, 0.130000, 0.017917
#*# x_count = 4
#*# y_count = 4
#*# mesh_x_pps = 2
#*# mesh_y_pps = 2
#*# algo = lagrange
#*# tension = 0.2
#*# min_x = 19.999999999999996
#*# max_x = 179.98999999999998
#*# min_y = 20.0
#*# max_y = 179.99
#*#
#*# [bltouch]
#*# z_offset = 1.354
2024.03.26 21:14 Flagg1991 Oprhans of the Night (Part 4)
Club Vlad sat near the confluence of Central Avenue and Washington Avenue, Albany’s two main thoroughfares. Two stories with blackout windows and a box office from when it used to be a movie theater, it was swarmed with people when Dom first spotted it ahead. He was somewhat familiar with it: He passed it every day on his way to work, and it was always busy around his time of evening, even on weeknights. Part of him always wanted to go inside and be a part of the scene, but he never did.
The man in sunglasses - his name was Joe - led Dom toward the club, and even before Joe spoke, Dom somehow knew that it was their destination. “There,” Joe said. “We’ll go around back.”
Dom and Joe had been walking for what seemed like an hour but couldn’t have been more than fifteen minutes. Dom stuck as close to Joe as possible as if for protection, and had become accustomed to his pungent smell. It was noticeable only at extremely close range, part sickly sweet and part…something else, something Dom could not place but still somehow recognized. They were two blocks from the club, maybe three, and Dom could hear the pulsing techo/house/whatever music as clearly as if he were standing in the middle of the dancefloor. He could hear the chatter of the people inside, or at least he imagined he could. He could smell them too: Beneath the odors of perfume, desperation, and spiritual rot was something richer, something blissful. Dom realized for the first time that he was parched - so parched - and drool filled his mouth.
A crowd of people waited outside Club Vlad, talking and laughing; some vaped, some stared down at their cellphones like Gollum with his precious ring. Dom’s first reaction was to avoid them. Perhaps sensing this…or perhaps feeling it himself…Joe ducked into an alleyway two doors down from the club. “We’ll go in the back,” Joe explained.
The back entrance to Club Vlad was a single door underneath a bare bulb. The music was so loud that Dom’s head began to throb. Inside, a dark hallway terminated in an archway filled with throbbing white light. Dread filled Dom as they approached it - he didn’t want to be around people - but thankfully they went into a room off the hall instead. An office. A cramped desk, a filing cabinet. A set of stairs disappeared into shadows.
“Sit,” Joe said.
Dom obeyed, sitting in the swivel chair.
Joe went up the stairs and Dom was alone. The deep coldness that had long settled into his bones made itself known again, and Dom leaned forward, wrapping his arms around his chest for warmth. The muffled music vibrated in his skull, setting his teeth on edge, and the various smells wafting in from the main room assaulted his senses. He was alternately repulsed and aroused by the crashing din of scents: The good, the bad, and the mouth watering. A sharp pain cut through his stomach like the killing edge of a knife, and Dom hugged himself tighter. Had his throat always been this dry? His throat felt like sandpaper; his tongue stuck to the roof of his mouth and getting it unstuck hurt so badly that tears sprang to his eyes.
Dom rubbed his arms with his hands and tried to still his chattering teeth. He looked around for a blanket, a discarded jacket, something to cover himself with, but there was nothing. Only drifts of glitter on the floor and walls. He supposed it came from a party or something. He’d never been to a night club but it seemed fitting.
A sound drew his attention to the door leading back into the hall. A woman - no older than a girl - stood there, looking confused and unsteady. She was dressed in black, wore glow sticks around her wrists and neck, and held a red solo cup. “I have to pee,” she said drunkenly and laughed. “I thought this was the bathroom.”
A cold wind washed over Dom, and Joe was standing next to him. “The bathroom’s up here,” he said.
“Oh, good,” the girl laughed, “I thought it was here but I didn’t know. This is my first time here.” She held her cup aloft. “Take me to it.”
Joe glanced at Dom. “Come on.”
They formed a party as they climbed the stairs, Dom in the tear and Joe at the head. The girl stumbled and held onto the railing, talking incessantly. Her voice hurt Dom’s head, but the hot smell wafting from her was intoxicating. Drool coursed down his chin and his breathing came in short, hot bursts. Another sharp pain rent his stomach, and he winced.
At the top of the stairs, where the lights were cold and white, a woman in black stood by a doorway, her back ramrod straight and her eyes vacant. Her face was gaunt, her white flesh pulled tight across her skull. She wore a black dress and her black hair long and straight. Dom only caught a glance at her before looking away again.
She looked like a ghost.
“Show her the bathroom,” Joe said.
The woman’s eyes slowly, ponderles, went from Joe to the drunk girl. Her expression, like Joe’s, was dead. She had no expression. “This way.”
She and the drunk girl disappeared down the hall, and Joe led Dom into a room. Though it was pitch black, Dom could still see; not very well…but he could see. Suddenly, a blinding white light flicked on in front of him, causing him to stop and fall back a step. Ahead, through an archway, sat a vaulted chamber, at the center of which sat a man. To Dom’s light dazzled eyes, he seemed a proud king perched upon a throne, the skulls of his many enemies piled around him. Dom blinked and turned his head slightly to the side. His eyes began to adjust, and the world came into focus.
The man was not, as it had first seemed, sitting on a throne. Instead, he was esconded in a motorized wheelchair. The piles of skulls were actually various pieces of machinery, the kind you’d find in a hospital room. A clear tube extended from one of them to the side of the man’s neck: Yellow liquid flowed from the machine and into the man. Another tube, this one in the other side of his neck, filtered out a mixture of what looked like yellow pus and black sludge. An infected malodor filled the air, and the machines whirred softly as they worked.
As for the man himself, his appearance was normal at first glance, Dressed in a flowing red velvet robe, a blue and green blanket with a plaid pattern draped over his shoulders, he was portly, about fifty, and had shoulder length grayish hair with a bald spot in the middle. If the local theater put on a production of Hamilton, they could cast a worse Ben Franklin than him.
On closer inspection, he was not normal at all. His complexion was yellow and waxy, like a statue, and his body was lumpy, misshapen, resembling an overfilled trash bag stuffed with cotton. His eyes were sick and yellow, and something about his posture seemed…off. It didn’t make sense, but the only thing Dom could think was: He looks impossible.
Joe stopped at the edge of the shadows, where the line between light and darkness lay. He seemed to stand up a little straighter, a general greeting his king. “Here he is,” Joe said.
The man squinted slightly against the glare of the light and motioned with one gnarled hand. “Step into the light,” he said. His voice was soft and kind, that of a senile though loving grandmother. Dom imagined he felt a pull toward the man, and did as he was bidden, wincing as the light stung his eyes.
For a moment, the man stared at him, his waxen features frozen fast as stone. Then, a subtle look of compassion flickered across his face. Dom did not believe in God, but he suddenly felt like a man standing before God, his every thought, feeling, and transgression laid bare. He had never felt so naked in his life, so exposed. He had the sense that the man before him could see everything, knew everything.
“You’ve been through a lot,” the man said. It was not a question, but a statement.
Everything Dom had been through over the past couple of days came back to him in a rush, and hot tears filled his eyes. He nodded.
The man nodded slightly, more to himself than to Dom. “Kneel down,” he said, “I want to look at you.”
Dom knelt without question.
The man lifted one hand and touched Dom’s face, tilting Dom’s head from one side to the other like a farmer appraising a horse. His fingers were long and bony, his nails ragged and unkempt; his touch was like ice. He brushed his knuckles over the purple bruise on Dom’s cheek, and there was such gentleness in that one act that Dom broke down sobbing. He leaned into the man’s touch like a cat and gave voice to his misery.
“Shhh,” the man said, “it’s all over now.”
“W-What’s happening to me?” Dom asked.
In his heart of hearts, however, he already knew.
“You died,” the man said patiently. “And you came back.”
Hearing it stated so plainly, Dom cried even harder.
“Only a handful of people throughout history can claim to have defeated death,” the man said, stroking Dom’s hair, “and you’re one of them. You should be proud.”
“How?” Dom asked between sobs. “What am I?”
The man stroked Dom’s cheek. “You’re the same thing I am.”
At that, Dom looked up at the man. “What are you?” he asked.
A little, knowing smile touched the man’s lips, and when he spoke, his canine teeth were longer and sharper than before. “I’m a vampire.”
“No,” Dom moaned and shook his head, “no, no, no.” He grabbed the man’s hand and held tight, his tears coming faster. He trembled like a frightened animal and squeezed his eyes closed, as if by doing so he could escape the hell his life had become.
But there was no escape.
“You have a lot of questions,” the man said, monologuing now rather than speaking directly to Dom, “I had the same questions when I was your age. I have spent the last forty-two years of my life trying to answer them, but every answer I find leads me to still more questions. There’s one thing I’m certain of, though.”
Dom blinked the tears from his eyes. The last of them had been squeezed from his dead tear ducts and he had no more to give. He simply stared into space, trying to come to grips with his situation.
“There is freedom in death,” the man said. “Death is easy. It’s simple. Once it’s over, you feel no pain, no sadness, no grief. It’s living that’s hard.”
As he spoke, he brushed his long nails across Dom’s scalp. It was a soothing feeling, and served to calm him. “People have so many troubles.” A note of revulsion crept into his voice. “So many needs, so many desires. People are complex but we’re not. We’re easy to please. A vampire wants only two things: A little blood and one more night.”
The combination of his touch and his voice had pacified Dom to the point of almost tranquility. “I’m scared,” Dom heard himself mumble.
Nodding almost reluctantly, the man said, “Fear is one of the only emotions a vampire can’t escape. Everything feels fear. Do you want to know a secret?”
Dom nodded.
“I’m afraid too,” the man confessed. “I’m afraid of death. Well…death as it were. I’m terrified that my body will rot away and leave me a pile of bones somewhere, unable to move but still aware”
A shudder went through Dom.
“As I’m sure you’ve seen yourself, the movies lied. We rot just like any other dead thing. Our flesh decays, our organs turn to sludge, and we go from rational men to monsters whose only thought is feeding.”
Now it was his turn to shiver.
“But…you’re not like that,: Dom said.’
The man smiled. “I’m lucky, I guess” A thin yellow fluid began to drip from his nostrils. He did not seem to notice. “What is your name?”
“Dominick,” Dom said.
“I’m Merrick,” the man said, “and this is my family.”
Dom realized that they were now surrounded by others, ten in all. They stood ramrod straight, their eyes vacant and their faces devoid of humanity. They were mainly men, though one was a woman. Some were pale, others were blue or black, and one was little more than a skeleton clad in withered brown skin, a white button up and jeans hanging from its frame.
A thought occurred to Dom. “You said my brain was going to rot…”
“Not necessarily,” Merrick cautioned, “though it’s possible.”
“Am I going to be…?”
“Like them?” Merrick asked. “Braindead and staring?”
Sheepishly, Dom nodded.
“Maybe,” Merrick allowed. “But these people are free of everything that troubles humanity. You were human just a short time ago. I’m sure you remember all too well what it was like. The constant politics, the moral quandaries, the philosophical pontificating. Human beings - and make no mistake, we are humans - were not meant for all of that. We’re animals. We were made to hunt, fuck, and sleep. Somewhere along the way, we got pretentious and started complicating things.” He looked at Dom, sizing him up, seeming to read him. “Things that animals take for granted, people work their entire lives to achieve. If an animal wants to fornicate, it fornicates. If a man wants to fornicate, he needs to be tall, handsome, rich, funny, progressive when it suits women but traditional when it doesn’t. If a man wants a home, he has to work thirty years for it. An animal has only to dig a hole in the ground.”
Every word struck a chord with Dom.
Because every word was true.
“Unfortunately, the living won’t allow us to live that freely, so we have to hide. These people here - my children - need a guiding hand, a protector, someone who can lead them. And I, an old man, need help.” Here he smiled playfully and patted his bulging stomach. “My body is mostly sawdust and cotton balls at this point, so I can’t do much. I share my wisdom and my knowledge with them, and they take care of me.”
“Why haven’t you…rotted?” Dom asked.
“Embalming fluid,” Merrick said. “Blood doesn’t sustain you. Embalming fluid does.” He smiled at Dom. “It can sustain you as well. If you’ll stay with us. We’re not the most attractive bunch, but we’re a family, and we really wish you’d join us.”
A family.
Dom’s parents had broken up and he lived with his mother. He had never had a family before, and had always wanted one, a real one, like in the movies. Even as a grown man, he sought the love, acceptance, and belonging that a family brings. He sought it in the wrong ways, but that - and not sex, not romantic love - is what he had really wanted all along.
This is what he had wanted all along.
“I want to,” Dom said.
Working quickly, Merrick slashed his wrist open with his thumbnail. An ugly mixture of stale blood, siphoned from someone else, and embalming fluid leaked out. “If you choose to drink, my blood will be in you. You will be my son and I will be your father. You will obey me as your father. You will do whatever is asked of you for this family, as this family will do for you. You will not reveal the secrets of this family to anyone outside of it. You will protect this family from all threats, both inside and out. Do you accept?”
He held his bleeding wrist out to Dom.
Dom did not question, nor did he hesitate. He grabbed the hand of his father, brought it to his mouth, and drank from the seeping wound. The fluid was cold, thick, and vile.
It tasted like belonging.
“Have you fed yet?”
“No,” Dom said.
“Before you do, I have a question for you. Who did this to you? Who made you?”
Dom thought. Everything was hazy. “Was it someone in this room?” Merrick asked.
Dom shook his head. “Her name is…” he wracked his brain. “Heather.”
Merrick nodded. “So there’s another out there.” He looked at Joe. “Did you turn her?”
“Yes,” Joe said.
Merrick looked annoyed. “I’ve told you not to go out and feed on your own. You have no self-control. You drink too much and create others, which creates headaches for the family. Tomorrow night, I want you and Dom to find her and bring her here.” “Okay,” Joe said.
Merrick looked over Dom’s shoulder. “Jess? Can you come here?”
The black haired woman from earlier came out of the shadows, the drunk girl with her, arms tied behind her back. The girl looked dazed. “Max,” Merrick said to the skeletal corpse-thing, “help her.”
Max, Jessie, and another vampire named Matt tied chains around the girl’s ankles and hoisted her aloft via a pulley system. Upside down, she swung back and forth. Merrick instructed the others to leave the room. “Max,” he said.
On his way out, the corpse-thing produced a knife and dragged it across the girl’s throat, slicing her skin; blood spurted out. Max leaned in to taste it, but Merrick shooed him away. When he and Dom were alone, Merrick told Dom, “Go to her.”
But Dom was already on his feet, his eyes transfixed by the crimson life flowing from her pumping throat. The hot, rich smell filled his nostrils and tantalized his senses. Saliva filled his mouth and his stomach panged with hunger. Some small, human part of his decaying brain screamed at him to stop, but he did not listen to it. He had been human for almost thirty years, and he had been miserable. Now, in this chamber of the undead, he gave himself over to his dark thirst. Like a man in a dream, he shuffled to her, inhaled the sweet scent of her blood, and shivered. He was so lost in lust that he hardly noticed the strange, cumbersome feeling of his descended fangs.
“Drink,” Merrick said.
Opening his mouth wide, Dom sank his teeth into the girl’s neck. Her blood filled his mouth and splashed down his throat. Warmth thawed the ice in his marrow and spread through him. His dead heart began to flutter, then to pound. His knees shook, his body trembled, and his mind rolled away on a tide of ecstasy.
As it was his first meal, he couldn’t drink much. Before long, his stomach was hard and distended and his body burned with fire. He collapsed to a heap on the floor and twitched as random nerve endings, stimulated by the blood, began to misfire. He felt full, warm, and drunk. He closed his eyes and let himself drift.
Dominick Mason had died.
And this…
This was heaven.
***
With all that was happening in the city of Albany, the last thing Bruce Kenner needed on Thursday morning was a visit from Bertha the bitch, but that’s exactly what he got. She flew into his office like she owned the place and instantly started in on him. Young man this and have you talked to Joe Rossi that. You’d think she was his boss. And if she were his boss, he’d quit and find another line of work. He heard McDonald’s was hiring.
Bruce almost snapped at her. He’d been up most of last night riding around Albany and looking for Dominick Mason. He and Vanessa expected him to drop dead somewhere close to the medical examiner’s office, but if he had, he’d done so in a super secret location.
“I’ve been busy,” Bruce said, “but I’m going to go by his place of work today.”
Tired and still confused over that bullshit from last night, he had no energy to argue with the old crone. He could spare a few minutes to talk to Joe Rossi, he figured. He assumed that Jessie was safe but he owed it to her to check. If he found the girl, he’d take her back to her grandmother (sorry, kid, really) and try to avoid arresting the guy. Unless he came off as a creep, then he’d bust his ass. See, people assumed that an older guy with a younger girlfriend was some master manipulator hell bent on evil deeds. Sometimes they were, but hell, his grandparents married when his grandpa was twenty-one and his grandma sixteen. They were married for fifty-five years and loved each other to the end. Maybe it was innocent, maybe not. It wasn’t his job to judge either way. Just gimme the girl so I can get her grandma off my back and no one gets hurt.
“It’s about time you started doing your job,” Bertha said, “I heard on the police scanner last night that you people lost a body. What kind of town is this? Your coroner is a drunk who makes up stories about bodies walking away. He probably sold it to black people.”
Bruce couldn’t help it; he snorted laughter.
“Now what would black people want with a dead body?”
“Probably to use it as a prop in one of their rap videos.”
Bruce didn’t know much about music videos, but he was pretty sure that the people who made them didn’t like the smell of corpse any more than the rest of us. “I’ll be sure to round up all the local rappers for questioning. Is there anything else I can help you with?”
Luckily for him, there was not, and Bertha left shortly thereafter. Alone and able to hear himself think, Bruce sat back in his chair and went over his mental checklist for the day. First order of business, go to Club Vlad. Second, find Dominick Mason. There were others, but that was the most important. He wanted the body found so someone could get to work explaining this whole weird thing. There had to be an explanation. The thought that there wasn’t, that a dead guy literally rose from the grave and disappeared into the night, deeply disturbed Bruce, and the more this whole thing remained ongoing, the more disturbed he would become.
Needing some fresh air, he decided to hit up Club Vlad.
Outside, the day was hot and sunny. Waves of heat shimmered from the pavement and not a single breath of air stirred in the whole world. Bruce slipped on a pair of sunglasses and drove over to Club Vlad. It occurred to him that the place might be closed during the day; it was the only place Joe Rossi was associated with. His address in the computer system was Glens Falls, far to the north. The messages he sent Jessie indicated that he lived onsite at Club Vlad.
The build, wedged between a corner store and a check cashing place, was as grimy and dumpy looking as it had always been. The front windows were blacked out and covered with posters and fliers for punk concerts, house bands, and far left political organizations: The Albany Social Justice Center, something called Bash the Fash 2025, and Bruce’s favorite. ACAB. He caught some kid spraying that on the side of the police station once, and under extreme police torture (ie, a good tongue lashing), the kid told him it meant All Cops Are Barnacleheads.
Bruce shot the kid on the spot and planted a gun on him.
How's that for barnaclehead?
Calm down, he didn’t really do that. He made him clean the graffiti off with a toothbrush. LOL he was out there for hours.
The sidewalk in front of the former theater was empty save for some little. The box office was abandoned. There was no open sigh, but then again, there was no closed sign either. He parked his cruiser at the curb, killed the engine, and got out, sweat instantly springing to his brow.
To his surprise, the door opened. Inside, a couple steps led down to a dance floor. A bar lined the wall to his right, and a couple more sets led up to a railed platform filled with tables. Above, a huge balcony looked down on him. A giant disco ball hung from the ceiling like a pair of glittery nuts and there were cages here and there. Presumably where girls danced go-go style. Oh yeah, nothing hotter than a woman behind bars. Why do you think Bruce became a cop in the first place?
Speaking of glittery nuts, there was glitter everywhere. On the floor, on the tables, on the bar. It twinkled like flecks of diamond and swirled around your feet when you walked. Bruce imagined big buckets of the stuff raining down on the dance floor at midnight and he shuddered. Imagine having glitter stuck in your hair. That shit would never come out.
Music played from the sound system, not as loud as it would be during operating hours. It sounded like ‘80s metal, not exactly what he expected from a place like this.
Some say life she's a lady
Kinda soft, kinda shady
I can tell you life is rich
She's no lady, she's a bitch
Being morning, the place was deserted except for a man behind the bar, busy at cleaning the countertop in anticipation for the night’s events. He was tall, Hispanic or Italian, and feminine, with a single earring and a tank top.
Bruce moseyed over to the bar and the barkeep looked up, missing a beat when he realized the fuzz was here. He sat down his rag and walked over. “Can I help you?” he asked in a whispy voice.
“Yeah,” Bruce said, “I’m looking for Joe Rossi. Is he here?”
“I don’t know,” the bartender said. He looked nervous. “I can check.”
Before Bruce could answer, he scurried off, leaving him alone.
They suck my body out
But friend there is no doubt
I'm gonna pay the devil his dues
Cause I'm sick of being abused
Bruce looked around, his fingers absently drumming on the countertop. Club Vlad was a clashing mix of grunge and glam that made his head hurt. He imagined what the place must be like at midnight, packed and noisy, and nodded to himself. Yeah, this was the spot, he guessed, the place all the cool kids went, if they went anywhere anymore. Hell, if he was thirty years younger, he might come here.
He had been waiting for almost twenty minutes when a voice spoke behind him. He turned with a start, and beheld the strangest man he had ever seen in his life. Short and plump - lumpy, even - he sat in a wheelchair, a red blanket draped over his shoulders and his hands resting on his knees. He was about fifty with sparse gray hair falling to his shoulders and a plastic-looking face. He looked like a wax statue of Ben Franklin come to life, and a deep sense of disquiet stirred in the pit of Bruce’s stomach.
Just can't fight the temptation
It's become my inspiration
Gonna get myself an axe
Break some heads, break some backs
It was only then that Bruce noticed the sickly sweet smell of death.
It seemed to come from the man in waves.
“I didn’t mean to frighten you,” the man said, “my name is Merrick Garvis and I own Club Vlad. Maybe I can be of assistance.”
Bruce grew up in the south where manners and saving face were paramount. His mother and his grandmother both taught him that it was impolite to stare. Maybe he'd been in New York so long that he’d forgotten himself, or maybe Merrick Garvis was just the strangest looking man in the world. Either way, Bruce couldn’t help gaping at his strange appearance. Recovering, he shook his head. “I’m sorry, I -”
Merrick smiled and waved one hand. Why was it so goddamn skeletal? “Don’t worry. I was injured in a fire a long time ago and this is the best they could do for me. To be honest, I’d stare too. What can I help you with, officer?”
“I’d like to talk to Joe Rossi,” Bruce said. “I understand he works for you.”
“He did,” Merrick said, “but I had to let him go. Did he do something wrong?”
Bruce sighed. “Well, yeah, he’s shacked up with a sixteen year old runaway.”
A look of concern crossed Merrick’s features, such as they were. “Oh, my, that is concerning. I haven’t seen him in several days. I assume he went home. He lives in Glens Falls.”
Bruce nodded, his mind working. If Rossi really was in Glens Falls, that meant the whole mess was someone else’s problem. He could send Bertha up there to bother some other poor barnacle head and be rid of her. Yet…he didn’t think Rossi was in Glens Falls. Bruce had a knack for knowing when people were lying, and he was certain that Merrick Garvis was doing just that. It couldn’t be a facial tick, as his features were largely unmoving, like clay. Maybe it was something in his cloudy eyes. Maybe it was the tone of his voice. Or maybe Bruce had the shining and knew things just for the hell of it. In any event, the certainty that Merrick Garvis was lying grew stronger with each passing second.
“Why’d you fire him?”
“He got drunk and hit one of the customers.”
“What did he do?” Bruce asked. “What was his position?”
“He was a bouncer.”
“Aren’t bouncers supposed to hit people?”
Merrick fumbled. “Well…not to punch them in the face for bumping into them.”
“How long did he work for you?”
“Six months.”
“Did you ever see him with an underage girl?”
“Of course not,” Merrick said, “you have to be twenty-one to get in. I make sure everyone’s ID is checked at the door.”
“What if she had a fake ID?”
“Then I guess she’d get in, but I’d assume she was of legal age.”
“You said he shoved someone, when did this happen?”
“Last week,” Merrick said.
“I thought you said he hit someone.”
Merrick again fumbled. “I did.” Now his face seemed to darken a little. A strange yellowish liquid, too thin to be snot, began to drip from his nostrils. Bruce barely suppressed a smear of disgust. “I understand you have a job to do but playing mind games with me isn’t going to solve anything. I can give you his address. Other than that, I can’t help you further.”
“Fair enough,” Bruce said. “But I’d like to see your ID please.”
Merrick glared at him. “I suppose you want my name, rank, and serial number as well.”
“Actually, yeah, I’d love that.”
Merrick drew a deep sigh. “Okay.”
In five minutes, Bruce had Merrick’s ID, social, and all other relevant information. Under normal circumstances, he wouldn’t have bothered, even though he was well within his rights to ask for this information from someone he was questioning. But something about Merrick Garvis was off, and not just his weird face or strangely bulbous body. Bruce was just smart enough to realize that something was going on here, but not quite smart enough to even begin to imagine what.
When he had everything he needed and saw no reason to stick around, Bruce bid Merrick farewell and left the club. Before he could do anything else, he got a call from dispatch: Officer needed assistance in Pine Hills. Bruce slipped behind the wheel and went forth to help, momentarily putting Merrick Garvis out of his mind.
But soon or later, he would get back to him.
Oh yes he would.
submitted by Flagg1991 to DrCreepensVault [link] [comments]
The man in sunglasses - his name was Joe - led Dom toward the club, and even before Joe spoke, Dom somehow knew that it was their destination. “There,” Joe said. “We’ll go around back.”
Dom and Joe had been walking for what seemed like an hour but couldn’t have been more than fifteen minutes. Dom stuck as close to Joe as possible as if for protection, and had become accustomed to his pungent smell. It was noticeable only at extremely close range, part sickly sweet and part…something else, something Dom could not place but still somehow recognized. They were two blocks from the club, maybe three, and Dom could hear the pulsing techo/house/whatever music as clearly as if he were standing in the middle of the dancefloor. He could hear the chatter of the people inside, or at least he imagined he could. He could smell them too: Beneath the odors of perfume, desperation, and spiritual rot was something richer, something blissful. Dom realized for the first time that he was parched - so parched - and drool filled his mouth.
A crowd of people waited outside Club Vlad, talking and laughing; some vaped, some stared down at their cellphones like Gollum with his precious ring. Dom’s first reaction was to avoid them. Perhaps sensing this…or perhaps feeling it himself…Joe ducked into an alleyway two doors down from the club. “We’ll go in the back,” Joe explained.
The back entrance to Club Vlad was a single door underneath a bare bulb. The music was so loud that Dom’s head began to throb. Inside, a dark hallway terminated in an archway filled with throbbing white light. Dread filled Dom as they approached it - he didn’t want to be around people - but thankfully they went into a room off the hall instead. An office. A cramped desk, a filing cabinet. A set of stairs disappeared into shadows.
“Sit,” Joe said.
Dom obeyed, sitting in the swivel chair.
Joe went up the stairs and Dom was alone. The deep coldness that had long settled into his bones made itself known again, and Dom leaned forward, wrapping his arms around his chest for warmth. The muffled music vibrated in his skull, setting his teeth on edge, and the various smells wafting in from the main room assaulted his senses. He was alternately repulsed and aroused by the crashing din of scents: The good, the bad, and the mouth watering. A sharp pain cut through his stomach like the killing edge of a knife, and Dom hugged himself tighter. Had his throat always been this dry? His throat felt like sandpaper; his tongue stuck to the roof of his mouth and getting it unstuck hurt so badly that tears sprang to his eyes.
Dom rubbed his arms with his hands and tried to still his chattering teeth. He looked around for a blanket, a discarded jacket, something to cover himself with, but there was nothing. Only drifts of glitter on the floor and walls. He supposed it came from a party or something. He’d never been to a night club but it seemed fitting.
A sound drew his attention to the door leading back into the hall. A woman - no older than a girl - stood there, looking confused and unsteady. She was dressed in black, wore glow sticks around her wrists and neck, and held a red solo cup. “I have to pee,” she said drunkenly and laughed. “I thought this was the bathroom.”
A cold wind washed over Dom, and Joe was standing next to him. “The bathroom’s up here,” he said.
“Oh, good,” the girl laughed, “I thought it was here but I didn’t know. This is my first time here.” She held her cup aloft. “Take me to it.”
Joe glanced at Dom. “Come on.”
They formed a party as they climbed the stairs, Dom in the tear and Joe at the head. The girl stumbled and held onto the railing, talking incessantly. Her voice hurt Dom’s head, but the hot smell wafting from her was intoxicating. Drool coursed down his chin and his breathing came in short, hot bursts. Another sharp pain rent his stomach, and he winced.
At the top of the stairs, where the lights were cold and white, a woman in black stood by a doorway, her back ramrod straight and her eyes vacant. Her face was gaunt, her white flesh pulled tight across her skull. She wore a black dress and her black hair long and straight. Dom only caught a glance at her before looking away again.
She looked like a ghost.
“Show her the bathroom,” Joe said.
The woman’s eyes slowly, ponderles, went from Joe to the drunk girl. Her expression, like Joe’s, was dead. She had no expression. “This way.”
She and the drunk girl disappeared down the hall, and Joe led Dom into a room. Though it was pitch black, Dom could still see; not very well…but he could see. Suddenly, a blinding white light flicked on in front of him, causing him to stop and fall back a step. Ahead, through an archway, sat a vaulted chamber, at the center of which sat a man. To Dom’s light dazzled eyes, he seemed a proud king perched upon a throne, the skulls of his many enemies piled around him. Dom blinked and turned his head slightly to the side. His eyes began to adjust, and the world came into focus.
The man was not, as it had first seemed, sitting on a throne. Instead, he was esconded in a motorized wheelchair. The piles of skulls were actually various pieces of machinery, the kind you’d find in a hospital room. A clear tube extended from one of them to the side of the man’s neck: Yellow liquid flowed from the machine and into the man. Another tube, this one in the other side of his neck, filtered out a mixture of what looked like yellow pus and black sludge. An infected malodor filled the air, and the machines whirred softly as they worked.
As for the man himself, his appearance was normal at first glance, Dressed in a flowing red velvet robe, a blue and green blanket with a plaid pattern draped over his shoulders, he was portly, about fifty, and had shoulder length grayish hair with a bald spot in the middle. If the local theater put on a production of Hamilton, they could cast a worse Ben Franklin than him.
On closer inspection, he was not normal at all. His complexion was yellow and waxy, like a statue, and his body was lumpy, misshapen, resembling an overfilled trash bag stuffed with cotton. His eyes were sick and yellow, and something about his posture seemed…off. It didn’t make sense, but the only thing Dom could think was: He looks impossible.
Joe stopped at the edge of the shadows, where the line between light and darkness lay. He seemed to stand up a little straighter, a general greeting his king. “Here he is,” Joe said.
The man squinted slightly against the glare of the light and motioned with one gnarled hand. “Step into the light,” he said. His voice was soft and kind, that of a senile though loving grandmother. Dom imagined he felt a pull toward the man, and did as he was bidden, wincing as the light stung his eyes.
For a moment, the man stared at him, his waxen features frozen fast as stone. Then, a subtle look of compassion flickered across his face. Dom did not believe in God, but he suddenly felt like a man standing before God, his every thought, feeling, and transgression laid bare. He had never felt so naked in his life, so exposed. He had the sense that the man before him could see everything, knew everything.
“You’ve been through a lot,” the man said. It was not a question, but a statement.
Everything Dom had been through over the past couple of days came back to him in a rush, and hot tears filled his eyes. He nodded.
The man nodded slightly, more to himself than to Dom. “Kneel down,” he said, “I want to look at you.”
Dom knelt without question.
The man lifted one hand and touched Dom’s face, tilting Dom’s head from one side to the other like a farmer appraising a horse. His fingers were long and bony, his nails ragged and unkempt; his touch was like ice. He brushed his knuckles over the purple bruise on Dom’s cheek, and there was such gentleness in that one act that Dom broke down sobbing. He leaned into the man’s touch like a cat and gave voice to his misery.
“Shhh,” the man said, “it’s all over now.”
“W-What’s happening to me?” Dom asked.
In his heart of hearts, however, he already knew.
“You died,” the man said patiently. “And you came back.”
Hearing it stated so plainly, Dom cried even harder.
“Only a handful of people throughout history can claim to have defeated death,” the man said, stroking Dom’s hair, “and you’re one of them. You should be proud.”
“How?” Dom asked between sobs. “What am I?”
The man stroked Dom’s cheek. “You’re the same thing I am.”
At that, Dom looked up at the man. “What are you?” he asked.
A little, knowing smile touched the man’s lips, and when he spoke, his canine teeth were longer and sharper than before. “I’m a vampire.”
“No,” Dom moaned and shook his head, “no, no, no.” He grabbed the man’s hand and held tight, his tears coming faster. He trembled like a frightened animal and squeezed his eyes closed, as if by doing so he could escape the hell his life had become.
But there was no escape.
“You have a lot of questions,” the man said, monologuing now rather than speaking directly to Dom, “I had the same questions when I was your age. I have spent the last forty-two years of my life trying to answer them, but every answer I find leads me to still more questions. There’s one thing I’m certain of, though.”
Dom blinked the tears from his eyes. The last of them had been squeezed from his dead tear ducts and he had no more to give. He simply stared into space, trying to come to grips with his situation.
“There is freedom in death,” the man said. “Death is easy. It’s simple. Once it’s over, you feel no pain, no sadness, no grief. It’s living that’s hard.”
As he spoke, he brushed his long nails across Dom’s scalp. It was a soothing feeling, and served to calm him. “People have so many troubles.” A note of revulsion crept into his voice. “So many needs, so many desires. People are complex but we’re not. We’re easy to please. A vampire wants only two things: A little blood and one more night.”
The combination of his touch and his voice had pacified Dom to the point of almost tranquility. “I’m scared,” Dom heard himself mumble.
Nodding almost reluctantly, the man said, “Fear is one of the only emotions a vampire can’t escape. Everything feels fear. Do you want to know a secret?”
Dom nodded.
“I’m afraid too,” the man confessed. “I’m afraid of death. Well…death as it were. I’m terrified that my body will rot away and leave me a pile of bones somewhere, unable to move but still aware”
A shudder went through Dom.
“As I’m sure you’ve seen yourself, the movies lied. We rot just like any other dead thing. Our flesh decays, our organs turn to sludge, and we go from rational men to monsters whose only thought is feeding.”
Now it was his turn to shiver.
“But…you’re not like that,: Dom said.’
The man smiled. “I’m lucky, I guess” A thin yellow fluid began to drip from his nostrils. He did not seem to notice. “What is your name?”
“Dominick,” Dom said.
“I’m Merrick,” the man said, “and this is my family.”
Dom realized that they were now surrounded by others, ten in all. They stood ramrod straight, their eyes vacant and their faces devoid of humanity. They were mainly men, though one was a woman. Some were pale, others were blue or black, and one was little more than a skeleton clad in withered brown skin, a white button up and jeans hanging from its frame.
A thought occurred to Dom. “You said my brain was going to rot…”
“Not necessarily,” Merrick cautioned, “though it’s possible.”
“Am I going to be…?”
“Like them?” Merrick asked. “Braindead and staring?”
Sheepishly, Dom nodded.
“Maybe,” Merrick allowed. “But these people are free of everything that troubles humanity. You were human just a short time ago. I’m sure you remember all too well what it was like. The constant politics, the moral quandaries, the philosophical pontificating. Human beings - and make no mistake, we are humans - were not meant for all of that. We’re animals. We were made to hunt, fuck, and sleep. Somewhere along the way, we got pretentious and started complicating things.” He looked at Dom, sizing him up, seeming to read him. “Things that animals take for granted, people work their entire lives to achieve. If an animal wants to fornicate, it fornicates. If a man wants to fornicate, he needs to be tall, handsome, rich, funny, progressive when it suits women but traditional when it doesn’t. If a man wants a home, he has to work thirty years for it. An animal has only to dig a hole in the ground.”
Every word struck a chord with Dom.
Because every word was true.
“Unfortunately, the living won’t allow us to live that freely, so we have to hide. These people here - my children - need a guiding hand, a protector, someone who can lead them. And I, an old man, need help.” Here he smiled playfully and patted his bulging stomach. “My body is mostly sawdust and cotton balls at this point, so I can’t do much. I share my wisdom and my knowledge with them, and they take care of me.”
“Why haven’t you…rotted?” Dom asked.
“Embalming fluid,” Merrick said. “Blood doesn’t sustain you. Embalming fluid does.” He smiled at Dom. “It can sustain you as well. If you’ll stay with us. We’re not the most attractive bunch, but we’re a family, and we really wish you’d join us.”
A family.
Dom’s parents had broken up and he lived with his mother. He had never had a family before, and had always wanted one, a real one, like in the movies. Even as a grown man, he sought the love, acceptance, and belonging that a family brings. He sought it in the wrong ways, but that - and not sex, not romantic love - is what he had really wanted all along.
This is what he had wanted all along.
“I want to,” Dom said.
Working quickly, Merrick slashed his wrist open with his thumbnail. An ugly mixture of stale blood, siphoned from someone else, and embalming fluid leaked out. “If you choose to drink, my blood will be in you. You will be my son and I will be your father. You will obey me as your father. You will do whatever is asked of you for this family, as this family will do for you. You will not reveal the secrets of this family to anyone outside of it. You will protect this family from all threats, both inside and out. Do you accept?”
He held his bleeding wrist out to Dom.
Dom did not question, nor did he hesitate. He grabbed the hand of his father, brought it to his mouth, and drank from the seeping wound. The fluid was cold, thick, and vile.
It tasted like belonging.
“Have you fed yet?”
“No,” Dom said.
“Before you do, I have a question for you. Who did this to you? Who made you?”
Dom thought. Everything was hazy. “Was it someone in this room?” Merrick asked.
Dom shook his head. “Her name is…” he wracked his brain. “Heather.”
Merrick nodded. “So there’s another out there.” He looked at Joe. “Did you turn her?”
“Yes,” Joe said.
Merrick looked annoyed. “I’ve told you not to go out and feed on your own. You have no self-control. You drink too much and create others, which creates headaches for the family. Tomorrow night, I want you and Dom to find her and bring her here.” “Okay,” Joe said.
Merrick looked over Dom’s shoulder. “Jess? Can you come here?”
The black haired woman from earlier came out of the shadows, the drunk girl with her, arms tied behind her back. The girl looked dazed. “Max,” Merrick said to the skeletal corpse-thing, “help her.”
Max, Jessie, and another vampire named Matt tied chains around the girl’s ankles and hoisted her aloft via a pulley system. Upside down, she swung back and forth. Merrick instructed the others to leave the room. “Max,” he said.
On his way out, the corpse-thing produced a knife and dragged it across the girl’s throat, slicing her skin; blood spurted out. Max leaned in to taste it, but Merrick shooed him away. When he and Dom were alone, Merrick told Dom, “Go to her.”
But Dom was already on his feet, his eyes transfixed by the crimson life flowing from her pumping throat. The hot, rich smell filled his nostrils and tantalized his senses. Saliva filled his mouth and his stomach panged with hunger. Some small, human part of his decaying brain screamed at him to stop, but he did not listen to it. He had been human for almost thirty years, and he had been miserable. Now, in this chamber of the undead, he gave himself over to his dark thirst. Like a man in a dream, he shuffled to her, inhaled the sweet scent of her blood, and shivered. He was so lost in lust that he hardly noticed the strange, cumbersome feeling of his descended fangs.
“Drink,” Merrick said.
Opening his mouth wide, Dom sank his teeth into the girl’s neck. Her blood filled his mouth and splashed down his throat. Warmth thawed the ice in his marrow and spread through him. His dead heart began to flutter, then to pound. His knees shook, his body trembled, and his mind rolled away on a tide of ecstasy.
As it was his first meal, he couldn’t drink much. Before long, his stomach was hard and distended and his body burned with fire. He collapsed to a heap on the floor and twitched as random nerve endings, stimulated by the blood, began to misfire. He felt full, warm, and drunk. He closed his eyes and let himself drift.
Dominick Mason had died.
And this…
This was heaven.
***
With all that was happening in the city of Albany, the last thing Bruce Kenner needed on Thursday morning was a visit from Bertha the bitch, but that’s exactly what he got. She flew into his office like she owned the place and instantly started in on him. Young man this and have you talked to Joe Rossi that. You’d think she was his boss. And if she were his boss, he’d quit and find another line of work. He heard McDonald’s was hiring.
Bruce almost snapped at her. He’d been up most of last night riding around Albany and looking for Dominick Mason. He and Vanessa expected him to drop dead somewhere close to the medical examiner’s office, but if he had, he’d done so in a super secret location.
“I’ve been busy,” Bruce said, “but I’m going to go by his place of work today.”
Tired and still confused over that bullshit from last night, he had no energy to argue with the old crone. He could spare a few minutes to talk to Joe Rossi, he figured. He assumed that Jessie was safe but he owed it to her to check. If he found the girl, he’d take her back to her grandmother (sorry, kid, really) and try to avoid arresting the guy. Unless he came off as a creep, then he’d bust his ass. See, people assumed that an older guy with a younger girlfriend was some master manipulator hell bent on evil deeds. Sometimes they were, but hell, his grandparents married when his grandpa was twenty-one and his grandma sixteen. They were married for fifty-five years and loved each other to the end. Maybe it was innocent, maybe not. It wasn’t his job to judge either way. Just gimme the girl so I can get her grandma off my back and no one gets hurt.
“It’s about time you started doing your job,” Bertha said, “I heard on the police scanner last night that you people lost a body. What kind of town is this? Your coroner is a drunk who makes up stories about bodies walking away. He probably sold it to black people.”
Bruce couldn’t help it; he snorted laughter.
“Now what would black people want with a dead body?”
“Probably to use it as a prop in one of their rap videos.”
Bruce didn’t know much about music videos, but he was pretty sure that the people who made them didn’t like the smell of corpse any more than the rest of us. “I’ll be sure to round up all the local rappers for questioning. Is there anything else I can help you with?”
Luckily for him, there was not, and Bertha left shortly thereafter. Alone and able to hear himself think, Bruce sat back in his chair and went over his mental checklist for the day. First order of business, go to Club Vlad. Second, find Dominick Mason. There were others, but that was the most important. He wanted the body found so someone could get to work explaining this whole weird thing. There had to be an explanation. The thought that there wasn’t, that a dead guy literally rose from the grave and disappeared into the night, deeply disturbed Bruce, and the more this whole thing remained ongoing, the more disturbed he would become.
Needing some fresh air, he decided to hit up Club Vlad.
Outside, the day was hot and sunny. Waves of heat shimmered from the pavement and not a single breath of air stirred in the whole world. Bruce slipped on a pair of sunglasses and drove over to Club Vlad. It occurred to him that the place might be closed during the day; it was the only place Joe Rossi was associated with. His address in the computer system was Glens Falls, far to the north. The messages he sent Jessie indicated that he lived onsite at Club Vlad.
The build, wedged between a corner store and a check cashing place, was as grimy and dumpy looking as it had always been. The front windows were blacked out and covered with posters and fliers for punk concerts, house bands, and far left political organizations: The Albany Social Justice Center, something called Bash the Fash 2025, and Bruce’s favorite. ACAB. He caught some kid spraying that on the side of the police station once, and under extreme police torture (ie, a good tongue lashing), the kid told him it meant All Cops Are Barnacleheads.
Bruce shot the kid on the spot and planted a gun on him.
How's that for barnaclehead?
Calm down, he didn’t really do that. He made him clean the graffiti off with a toothbrush. LOL he was out there for hours.
The sidewalk in front of the former theater was empty save for some little. The box office was abandoned. There was no open sigh, but then again, there was no closed sign either. He parked his cruiser at the curb, killed the engine, and got out, sweat instantly springing to his brow.
To his surprise, the door opened. Inside, a couple steps led down to a dance floor. A bar lined the wall to his right, and a couple more sets led up to a railed platform filled with tables. Above, a huge balcony looked down on him. A giant disco ball hung from the ceiling like a pair of glittery nuts and there were cages here and there. Presumably where girls danced go-go style. Oh yeah, nothing hotter than a woman behind bars. Why do you think Bruce became a cop in the first place?
Speaking of glittery nuts, there was glitter everywhere. On the floor, on the tables, on the bar. It twinkled like flecks of diamond and swirled around your feet when you walked. Bruce imagined big buckets of the stuff raining down on the dance floor at midnight and he shuddered. Imagine having glitter stuck in your hair. That shit would never come out.
Music played from the sound system, not as loud as it would be during operating hours. It sounded like ‘80s metal, not exactly what he expected from a place like this.
Some say life she's a lady
Kinda soft, kinda shady
I can tell you life is rich
She's no lady, she's a bitch
Being morning, the place was deserted except for a man behind the bar, busy at cleaning the countertop in anticipation for the night’s events. He was tall, Hispanic or Italian, and feminine, with a single earring and a tank top.
Bruce moseyed over to the bar and the barkeep looked up, missing a beat when he realized the fuzz was here. He sat down his rag and walked over. “Can I help you?” he asked in a whispy voice.
“Yeah,” Bruce said, “I’m looking for Joe Rossi. Is he here?”
“I don’t know,” the bartender said. He looked nervous. “I can check.”
Before Bruce could answer, he scurried off, leaving him alone.
They suck my body out
But friend there is no doubt
I'm gonna pay the devil his dues
Cause I'm sick of being abused
Bruce looked around, his fingers absently drumming on the countertop. Club Vlad was a clashing mix of grunge and glam that made his head hurt. He imagined what the place must be like at midnight, packed and noisy, and nodded to himself. Yeah, this was the spot, he guessed, the place all the cool kids went, if they went anywhere anymore. Hell, if he was thirty years younger, he might come here.
He had been waiting for almost twenty minutes when a voice spoke behind him. He turned with a start, and beheld the strangest man he had ever seen in his life. Short and plump - lumpy, even - he sat in a wheelchair, a red blanket draped over his shoulders and his hands resting on his knees. He was about fifty with sparse gray hair falling to his shoulders and a plastic-looking face. He looked like a wax statue of Ben Franklin come to life, and a deep sense of disquiet stirred in the pit of Bruce’s stomach.
Just can't fight the temptation
It's become my inspiration
Gonna get myself an axe
Break some heads, break some backs
It was only then that Bruce noticed the sickly sweet smell of death.
It seemed to come from the man in waves.
“I didn’t mean to frighten you,” the man said, “my name is Merrick Garvis and I own Club Vlad. Maybe I can be of assistance.”
Bruce grew up in the south where manners and saving face were paramount. His mother and his grandmother both taught him that it was impolite to stare. Maybe he'd been in New York so long that he’d forgotten himself, or maybe Merrick Garvis was just the strangest looking man in the world. Either way, Bruce couldn’t help gaping at his strange appearance. Recovering, he shook his head. “I’m sorry, I -”
Merrick smiled and waved one hand. Why was it so goddamn skeletal? “Don’t worry. I was injured in a fire a long time ago and this is the best they could do for me. To be honest, I’d stare too. What can I help you with, officer?”
“I’d like to talk to Joe Rossi,” Bruce said. “I understand he works for you.”
“He did,” Merrick said, “but I had to let him go. Did he do something wrong?”
Bruce sighed. “Well, yeah, he’s shacked up with a sixteen year old runaway.”
A look of concern crossed Merrick’s features, such as they were. “Oh, my, that is concerning. I haven’t seen him in several days. I assume he went home. He lives in Glens Falls.”
Bruce nodded, his mind working. If Rossi really was in Glens Falls, that meant the whole mess was someone else’s problem. He could send Bertha up there to bother some other poor barnacle head and be rid of her. Yet…he didn’t think Rossi was in Glens Falls. Bruce had a knack for knowing when people were lying, and he was certain that Merrick Garvis was doing just that. It couldn’t be a facial tick, as his features were largely unmoving, like clay. Maybe it was something in his cloudy eyes. Maybe it was the tone of his voice. Or maybe Bruce had the shining and knew things just for the hell of it. In any event, the certainty that Merrick Garvis was lying grew stronger with each passing second.
“Why’d you fire him?”
“He got drunk and hit one of the customers.”
“What did he do?” Bruce asked. “What was his position?”
“He was a bouncer.”
“Aren’t bouncers supposed to hit people?”
Merrick fumbled. “Well…not to punch them in the face for bumping into them.”
“How long did he work for you?”
“Six months.”
“Did you ever see him with an underage girl?”
“Of course not,” Merrick said, “you have to be twenty-one to get in. I make sure everyone’s ID is checked at the door.”
“What if she had a fake ID?”
“Then I guess she’d get in, but I’d assume she was of legal age.”
“You said he shoved someone, when did this happen?”
“Last week,” Merrick said.
“I thought you said he hit someone.”
Merrick again fumbled. “I did.” Now his face seemed to darken a little. A strange yellowish liquid, too thin to be snot, began to drip from his nostrils. Bruce barely suppressed a smear of disgust. “I understand you have a job to do but playing mind games with me isn’t going to solve anything. I can give you his address. Other than that, I can’t help you further.”
“Fair enough,” Bruce said. “But I’d like to see your ID please.”
Merrick glared at him. “I suppose you want my name, rank, and serial number as well.”
“Actually, yeah, I’d love that.”
Merrick drew a deep sigh. “Okay.”
In five minutes, Bruce had Merrick’s ID, social, and all other relevant information. Under normal circumstances, he wouldn’t have bothered, even though he was well within his rights to ask for this information from someone he was questioning. But something about Merrick Garvis was off, and not just his weird face or strangely bulbous body. Bruce was just smart enough to realize that something was going on here, but not quite smart enough to even begin to imagine what.
When he had everything he needed and saw no reason to stick around, Bruce bid Merrick farewell and left the club. Before he could do anything else, he got a call from dispatch: Officer needed assistance in Pine Hills. Bruce slipped behind the wheel and went forth to help, momentarily putting Merrick Garvis out of his mind.
But soon or later, he would get back to him.
Oh yes he would.
2024.03.23 06:38 GuiltlessMaple Best 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank
 | 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tankhttps://i.redd.it/4yowp71bt0qc1.gif Are you in the market for a reliable, fuel-efficient boat gas tank that can withstand the toughest conditions? Look no further! Our 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank roundup provides you with a comprehensive collection of the best options on the market. Not only will these tanks ensure your boat stays powered up during your adventures, but they'll also help you save on fuel costs. So hop on board and let us guide you through our handpicked selection of 6-gallon boat gas tanks designed to meet all your boating needs. This article delves into key features such as durability, capacity, compatibility, and price points, providing readers with everything they need to find the perfect match for their boat. In addition, we've included customer reviews and ratings to help you make an informed decision. So if you're ready to enhance your boating experience, read on to discover the top 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tanks available today! The Top 19 Best 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank
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This compact yet powerful fuel tank is perfect for long drives or short trips to the lake, providing me with the peace of mind knowing I won't be stranded due to an empty tank. One feature that really stood out to me was its high-quality construction using polyethylene shell, which not only ensures durability but also maintains fuel safety. It's CARB approved and ready to handle ethanol and alcohol-based fuels, making it versatile in any situation. However, there's a downside to this otherwise fantastic product. The valve isn't as secure as I'd like it to be, leaving me with some concerns about potential leakage during intense outdoor activities. Despite this minor inconvenience, I'm still very much satisfied with the Scepter Under-The-Seat Portable 6 Gallon Fuel Container. It has made my life easier on the road and provided me with that extra layer of reliability when it comes to fuel supplies. 🔗EPA-Compliant 6-Gallon Fuel Tank with Gaugehttps://preview.redd.it/gwdcwmodt0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0d6db198898f28c32b6fd0a055453714d16ca138 I recently got the chance to use the Attwood 6-gallon Fuel Tank with Gauge, and let me tell you, it's been quite the ride! This isn't just any fuel tank; it's designed to be EPA compliant, which means it meets stringent environmental standards. Plus, it's got a built-in gauge, making it super convenient to monitor your fuel levels. The first thing you notice about this tank is its sturdy, automotive-grade construction. It's designed to withstand the pressure build-up that can occur in closed fuel systems, ensuring that it performs reliably and safely. The cap also has a built-in vacuum valve, so you don't have to manually vent the tank. However, the standout feature for me - and others who have used this tank - is its compliance with EPA and CARB regulations, as well as ABYC/NMMA requirements for portable marine fuel tanks. This means that not only is it environmentally friendly, but it's also incredibly efficient and effective. The fuel gauge is another highlight. It's accurate and reliable, making it easy to keep track of your fuel levels and ensuring that you never run out of gas mid-adventure. And speaking of adventure, the compact size of this tank means that it's perfect for taking on the go, whether you're heading out for a day on the boat or just need a portable fuel solution for your lawnmower or generator. Of course, no product is perfect, and the Attwood Fuel Tank with Gauge is no exception. Some users have reported issues with the tank swelling up or becoming deformed under certain conditions, such as prolonged exposure to heat or direct sunlight. Additionally, the lack of a vented cap can lead to pressure build-up and potential leakage. Overall, I would highly recommend the Attwood 6-gallon Fuel Tank with Gauge for anyone in need of a reliable, EPA compliant fuel solution. Its sturdy construction, built-in gauge, and compliance with multiple regulations make it a top choice for boaters, homeowners, and anyone else who needs a portable fuel tank. Just be sure to handle it with care and mind any potential issues related to pressure build-up or swelling. 🔗6-Gallon Boat Gas Tank with Durable Designhttps://preview.redd.it/e2rpi48et0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c4778a15c5bc68c0075cac93081fcb67b8f8670d As an avid boater, I've tried quite a few fuel tanks and can tell you that the Seasense Fuel Tank has been a game-changer for me. Its compact design not only meets USCG / ABYC / EPA requirements but also saves space onboard my vessel. The wider, deeper grooves allow for secure tie-down, ensuring that my fuel remains safely in place no matter how rough the water gets. One of the best features of this tank is its ergonomic carrying handles, making it incredibly easy to move around when needed. Additionally, the form-molded insets and recesses allow for safe stacking, ensuring I can store extra fuel neatly and securely on my boat. However, there are a couple drawbacks that should be considered before purchasing. Some users have reported leakiness issues with the vent caps, which could lead to messy situations in the long run. Furthermore, the product description seems to show two tanks, but only one is included upon delivery – a little misleading for potential buyers. In conclusion, the Seasense Fuel Tank provides a solid balance between functionality and convenience. Its capacity and ergonomic design make it a worthwhile investment for any boater looking to store their fuel safely and efficiently. However, be aware of potential leakiness issues and discrepancies between product images and actual delivery. 🔗6.6 Gal Scepter Boat Gas Tank - Sturdy & Durable for Large Capacityhttps://preview.redd.it/2j3ipsqet0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=409210d739854e26e2b5cd947c7b3619fd3959e2 I recently got my hands on Scepter's 6.6 Gallon EPA Tank and let me tell you, this little buddy has been a game changer for my boating trips. First off, the fact that it's made of UV stabilized, rust and corrosion resistant HDPE is a major plus. It's not just sturdy but also lightweight, which means I don't have to worry about straining my back while carry it around. One of the best things about this tank is its 2-way vented cap. It ensures easy grip and easy flow of fuel, making refueling my boat a breeze. The innovative ribbed design that floats on water is another highlight worth mentioning. Not only does it save space but also ensures convenience during storage. The mechanical direct-sight gauge with an easy-to-read indicator is another feature that I absolutely love about this tank. It gives me a clear idea of how much fuel I have left, eliminating any guesswork. However, one thing that bugged me a little was the lack of proper instructions on how to vent the cap before use. It took some trial and error before I figured it out, but once I did, everything worked perfectly fine. All in all, this Scepter Tank has proven to be quite a reliable companion for my boating adventures. Its durability, ease of use, and large capacity make it worth every penny. If you're in the market for a portable fuel tank, I'd definitely recommend giving Scepter a shot! 🔗Portable 6-Gallon Boat Gas Tank with ECO Featureshttps://preview.redd.it/7ifl5wpft0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fcd183325561f5b66fce05dc5fb91febdfa702cf As a boat owner, I can't stress enough how much I rely on my Scepter 10511 Portable EPA Fuel Tank. Its 6-gallon capacity means I don't have to constantly refuel during my trips, while its seamless, one-piece polyethylene construction ensures durability. The inbuilt combination fuel pick-up and sight gauge is a lifesaver as it saves me the hassle of constantly checking my fuel levels. One thing that truly stands out is its advanced ventilation system, courtesy of the molded feet, which has kept my boat stable even during choppy waters. However, it's worth mentioning that the placement of the fuel intake tube can cause some minor inconvenience when refilling, as it sometimes catches on the lid. Overall, I've found this fuel tank to be a reliable and efficient addition to my boating trips. Its ethanol and alcohol compliance, as well as its ability to meet ABYC/EPA/CARB standards, just add to its appeal. If you're in the market for a dependable gas tank for your boat, the Scepter 10511 is definitely worth considering. 🔗6.5 Gallon Fuel Tank by Sierra Marinehttps://preview.redd.it/bwtfjfegt0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8c8aaaf2fdf3d831ddd7c93f11c23b2b797cb8a3 As an avid sailor, I recently came across the Sierra 6.5 Gallon All-In-One Tank. This product has been a game-changer in my boating adventures. The ultra-durable Moeller fuel tank, certified by both CSA and ISO13591, ensures that I can safely store and transport fuel without worrying about leaks or damage. I particularly appreciated the quick disconnect feature which made connecting the fuel line hassle-free, even when I'm out on rough waters. The compatibility with various engine brands including Evinrude/Johnson, Mercury, and Yamaha ensures that I have a versatile tool for all my boating needs. However, there was one issue that I faced - the lack of availability in the USA due to certification restrictions. But overall, the Sierra 6.5 Gallon All-In-One Tank has made my boating trips much smoother and more enjoyable. 🔗6-Gallon EPA/CARB-Approved Boat Fuel Tankhttps://preview.redd.it/g57w5jsgt0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5c6905417f456d5fc311f52b52140836c4d3610d So, imagine you're out on your boat, enjoying the calm waters, you know, just you and the great outdoors. But suddenly, you realize you forgot to fill up your boat's gas tank! That's where the Moeller 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank comes in. It's like having a trusty buddy carrying your gas, so you can keep sailing all day long. Now, this fuel tank is not just any ordinary tank. It's made of thick, high-quality plastic that's super durable. Plus, it comes with a secure cap and well-fitting connectors. You know how some boat parts can get really complicated? Well, not this one. It's so easy to use, even a first-timer wouldn't have a problem. One thing that really stood out for me is the universality of the fuel line. It fits most Evinrude/Johnson, Mercury, and Yamaha outboard engines. That's like saying you can use it with almost any boat out there! And the quick disconnect to the tank fuel connector is a real time-saver. Imagine just snapped off the old tank and snapped on the new one. So not only do you save time, but you also save on that extra fuel you might spill during the process. However, not everything is perfect. The fuel hose that comes with the tank seems to be a sore point for some. It's a bit stiff, especially in cooler temperatures. And there have been some issues with leakiness, where the fuel hose connects to the primer bulb fitting. But hey, no product is flawless, right? Overall, the Moeller 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank is a robust, reliable companion for your boat trips. Despite some drawbacks, it's definitely worth considering for anyone looking to replace their old tank or get a new one. So, if you want to keep your boat cruising on those lovely lakes, this could be your best bet! 🔗6 Gallon Portable Fuel Tank with 2-Stage Self-Venting Cap - Moeller 620040LPhttps://preview.redd.it/gdrf8jbht0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a85f4b81834ad32a5d57a126cb22a8c701a3e6ad As a boating enthusiast, I've found the Moeller 6BOW to be an indispensable part of my gear. This sleek, 6-gallon fuel tank was a game-changer when it came to the distribution of weight on my boat, helping it plane quicker and providing a smoother ride overall. Its unique design allows for easy storage in the bow of inflatables and dinghies, which not only frees up space but also prevents that cumbersome, bottom-heavy sensation. The 6BOW really stands out with its high-quality components, made from robust, high-density polyethylene materials. This ensures durability and strength while also providing resistance to ultraviolet rays, a feature that's quite useful given our tropical climate. What's more, this fuel tank boasts a 2-stage self-venting fuel cap, which not only guarantees swift refueling but also contributes to its EPA and CARB compliance. However, it's not all smooth sailing. During my use of the 6BOW, I've noticed a few hiccups, primarily leaking issues with some of the fittings. It was quite the hassle trying to get the fill cap to seal properly, and I can't say I'm thrilled about the cracking fuel outflow fitting. Overall, I'd give the Moeller 6BOW a rating of 3.5. While it certainly has some valuable features that make it worth considering, the leakiness is definitely a concern. But if you're willing to keep an eye on your fittings, you'll discover just how much this fuel tank can improve your boating experience. 🔗6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank Kit by BISupplyhttps://preview.redd.it/4u8kyvwht0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7b2cb0cb73cbaff0a84f2cab5f0701caf9cec22a I've been using the BISupply Portable Boat Gas Tank for a while now, and let me tell you, it's been quite an adventure. This little beauty has certainly made my boat trips more enjoyable. What I absolutely love about it is the 6-gallon capacity, which ensures that I don't have to worry about running out of fuel midway through a fun day on the water. The thing that really impressed me was its long-lasting durability. Made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, this tank is built to withstand rough water conditions. And its tight sealing prevents any leaks of gasoline fuel or fumes. Plus, the mesh strainer on the fill spout keeps the gunk and grime out of my fuel supply! However, there's one thing that's been bothering me - the valve on the hose. It doesn't seem to cut off the gas flow properly when I detach it from my boat's fuel system. That's why I had to be extra careful not to spill any fuel while filling up. Another issue I've faced is the review tag of 'leakiness'. I didn't experience this myself, but it's worth mentioning since two users reported it. Despite these minor setbacks, I would still recommend the BISupply Portable Boat Gas Tank to anyone looking for a reliable and portable fuel solution for their boating adventures. Buyer's Guidehttps://preview.redd.it/dlabk9klt0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=21eeabac81d6abe25231d12dfed2d6022d2454c6 None FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/0fvxrh0mt0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e7dafccca8ef1d92de82aca8e18405a7c823eba4 What is a 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank?A 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank is a fuel storage device specifically designed for use in boats, such as fishing or sailing vessels. The tank holds 6 gallons of gasoline, which can power boat engines for longer trips and activities on the water.How does a 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank differ from regular gas containers?https://preview.redd.it/70x98khmt0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7109759b50c46cfdbbfeb032c076b00499f1b5b6 A 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank is made from marine-grade materials that are designed to withstand corrosion and moisture, unlike regular gas containers. These tanks often have additional features like built-in vents, fuel level gauges, and leak-proof seals for maximum safety and convenience while on the water. What are the benefits of using a 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank?
https://preview.redd.it/wi86rywmt0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5eec6f3359d1916983fcfb991448839e76f223a8 How do I install a 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank on my boat?The process of installing a 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank varies depending on the specific model and your boat's design. Consult the user manual provided with the tank, or seek professional assistance if needed. Typically, the process involves mounting the gas tank to a secure bracket, attaching fuel lines and a vent line, and ensuring all connections are leak-free and secure.What are the maintenance requirements for a 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank?https://preview.redd.it/3wiahwsnt0qc1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7cf9db64387a8ca94469bf001e23e840b8eaf74d To keep your 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank in optimal condition, it's essential to perform regular maintenance such as inspecting fuel lines and connections for leaks, checking the vent line for any obstructions, and cleaning the fuel cap and exterior surfaces as needed. It's also crucial to follow proper fuel storage procedures and avoid mixing different fuel types, such as gasoline and oil, within the tank. What is the average lifespan of a 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank?The lifespan of a 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank depends on several factors, including how frequently it is used, the quality of the materials, and proper maintenance. With proper care and attention, a well-made boat gas tank can last for a decade or more.Do I need specific permits or certifications to store fuel in a 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank on my boat?In most cases, you don't need any specific permits or certifications to store fuel in a 6 Gallon Boat Gas Tank on your boat, as long as it is used according to safety standards and manufacturer guidelines. However, it's essential to check with local regulations and guidelines in your area to ensure compliance with any applicable laws or restrictions.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |