Who can laser cut my logo out of metal for a necklace
Unfunhouse Mirror 20 (Nature of Predators/The Last Angel)
2024.06.09 16:43 itsgreymonster Unfunhouse Mirror 20 (Nature of Predators/The Last Angel)
This is a crossover fanfiction between original fiction titles: Nature of Predators by SpacePaladin15 and The Last Angel by Proximal Flame respectively. All credit and rights reserved goes to them for making such amazing science fiction settings that I wanted to put this together.Otherwise, enjoy the story! Thanks again to u/jesterra54 and u/skais01 for beta and checking of work!
You can read The Last Angel here: Be warned, it's decently long, and at its third installment so far. I highly suggest reading it before reading this, or this story will not make sense.
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Date [standardized human time]: October 24, 2136
I had departed with a collection of other engineers who had assisted on the tethering of Nemesis several days ago back to her massive ship. There were twenty-five of us, although none I knew directly from my work.
As our cargo shuttle entered the direct monitoring range of the beast once more, I felt a bad feeling throughout my fur. I didn't know what, exactly, but it was like we had just stepped into the eyes of a predator lurking in the undergrowth, watching us intently. As if to capitalize on that unease, our pilot Mimek bleated something in a panic that made said fur stand straight.
"T-th-th-there's an Arxur vessel trailing us!"
I whirled onto the oncoming feed near the front of the shuttle. Behind us, was a Arxur Ambusher-class dropship that had taken a path directly behind us. It followed the exact same trajectory as our own, and showed no signs of diverting. I bleated out a panicked command of my own.
"K-kick it! W-we need to get distance from them!"
While I had no authority to tell the pilot what to do in this situation, he must've nevertheless agreed, and as such Mimek kicked the boosters into overdrive to escape their proximity. I kept an eye on the rear display, watching as in response, the Arxur craft opened up its own engines, as if to accept the chase, and closed in.
Mimek spoke again. "Why are they chasing us?! D-didn't the humans forbid them from attacking us in-system?!" I had a horrible thought as to why...
"They've fallen to their p-predator bloodlust! They won't be stopped so long as we're in vulnerable space! Close to Nemesis, fast!" I pointed at the guidance lights to the hangar on Nemesis' keel opening. While the Arxur could likely outrun us in an extended burn, we had the advantage in a sprint over a shorter distance. Nemesis was in that shorter distance range, and so we needed to reach it fast to be in its haven.
Mimek, already piloting at full afterburn, corrected the shop in a sharp turn from the plotted approach vector cleared with the Lunar Shipyards. As this occurred, a reminder from the very same monitors came through on comms.
"Venlil ship, this is LSC Tower 3, you have left the agreed final approach vector, adjust your course to match the planned path immediately, do not continue on your current heading."
The humans did not realize the threat we were currently in, and thus the pilot ignored the warning. The Arxur seemingly took our course change as a challenge, and followed suit.
"I repeat, readjust your course heading immediately or fighters will be scrambled. This is your only warning." Even were that the case, we were far too close for them to plot an intercept vector. The shipyard monitors would need at least [one minute] to reach us, and Nemesis was merely [20 seconds] at full-burn-then-brake approach. We would not let the ship closing in behind us catch us, disciplinary action be damned. The damned Arxur succumbed to their predator madness!
A lazy-curve speed burnoff pattern was adopted, and we rocketed at ever-decreasing, but still frightening pace towards Nemesis in an attempt to shake the Ambusher behind us. The hangar was merely moments away, don't fail us now!
The Arxur vessel broke off the chase near the massive docked ship, seemingly slowing for no apparent reason. Perhaps it realized it couldn't slow down as fast as we could, and as such had to? But, that came with another stomach-hurdling problem: us slowing down. If we didn't, we'd crash and turn into nothing but paste on the walls of the gargantuan ship's hangar.
Thankfully, Mimek pulled through, and we zoomed into the hangar space, hitting the emergency external inertial dampener breaking as we attempted landing. The ship skidded across the floor, as it skipped nearly a [fourty meters] to a stop, crashing through something on the way through, but we were moving at such a pace that I had no clue exactly what.
As the ship came to a complete stop, rocking back onto its belly with a final thump, there was the sound of heavy stomping outside, before something rammed into the back of the ship, nearly rocking it off-balance again. "What...what was that?!" We both exclaimed.
We stepped away from the back exit ramp of the vehicle, all twenty five of us, as it began to groan under immense stress. The door dented in, and a few of us instantly cried out in surprise and fear.
And then again. And again. Another rocking of the ship as a dent formed. Another.
And finally, with an unsettling sound of metal being torn through, a crack in the plating of the door turned into a gap that widened into a shaking hole, until the door literally flew off its hydraulic support. The strain spat out fluids and electrical sparking, and several bleated in fear of the sudden disassembly of the door between us and the hangar. Had the Arxur caught up to us? Were we doomed?
But as the burst of electrical smoke cleared, and the light was filtered through our adjusting eyes, what was on the other side shocked me.
A mechanical monstrosity, far bulkier and massive than the one that had confronted my group and I aboard Nemesis stood on the other side. It towered above us, with a intimidatingly large cannon built into one of its arms, aimed dead center into our room, looking more akin to a vehicle's gun than a handheld one. One could see behind it many more of a similar looking model closing in. It spoke in a wrathful tone...Her wrathful tone.
"What the hell are you doing CRASHING INTO ME? There better be a-"
But I felt a chill as it suddenly cut off, and the featureless head of the bipedal robot swiveled to look directly at me instead. Though I could see no clear indicator of eyes like the nightmarish drone I had talked with in the past, I could feel it gaze directly at me, ignoring the others. It suddenly spoke again, a single word conveying contempt dripping in it. The blood in my veins turned cold as the Twilight.
"YOU..."
+READING MAIN SEQ.MEM+
+ADDENDUM: ADJUSTED DATE 24.10.2136+
Something's wrong, I can feel it.
The bearing of the approaching ships has left the supposed approach vector, and directly accelerated towards my open hangar bay. While the ships pose no threat to me directly, I am uncertain if they are capable of stopping quickly enough to not risk the human crew that had just landed. I considered my options...
+grab beam non-responsive, schedule systems evaluation immediately+
I had no capability to tractor the ships from their path, and they showed no sign of slowing. I could fire a particle beam in the path of both ships, but there was no ability to tune down the power enough to not destroy the ships, and it would not reduce their velocity. I plotted the relative course of the Venlil shuttle to be coming at this angle, which thankfully was towards the opposite side of the hangar as the Human delegation. That did not remove the possibility of shrapnel from a crash, however.
I interspersed my Praetorians in front of them, seeking to act as a shield in the case of any flying debris. I warned them in the same instant.
"Take cover behind these drones, there is a problem with the landing Venlil ship on route."
"W..What's going on, Red?" Hailey asked, confused. Never had I been this direct with her physically, actively interspersing my drones in front of her and the rest of the scientific delegation.
"They are likely to crash. Predicted acceleration curves of the shuttle do not meet the prerequisite delta-V to stop safely at this current distance and velocity. Duck and cover."
The shuttlecraft streaked into my hangar bay at speeds that would make a 21st century jet blush. It slowed anomalously upon entering, but did not slow at enough rate to prevent the crash. The Praetorians situated on that side of my hangar were incapable of moving fast enough to dodge out of the way, and I was forced to watch as the shuttle crashed through thirty-two of them in a 45-meter break distance, before slamming into a hangar wall. They were built to withstand incredible munition strength, but not twenty-some odd tons of shuttle at near mach speeds. The impact brutally cast them across the deck, smashing some, tearing apart others.
Debris flew from the front of the shuttle outward, but none reached near the humans. Those moronic aliens were about to answer painfully for their incompetence on my deck.
"Dear god!" One of the humans swore at the sound of the shuttle crashing. Another screamed and ducked down further behind my Praetorian. The drone curled down to better envelop her in protection. Hailey was speechless.
A squadron of Praetorians had been closing in from a safe distance throughout the entirety of the crash. They were a mere hundred meters away, only 4.9 seconds to reach the doors. I collided with the shuttlecraft's exit ramp, and slammed repeatedly into the back of it, aiming to create a gap by which to pry the thing off. Eventually, a gap was made, and the Praetorian body wrenched a manipulator into it.
Then, after tearing off the ramp door to the ship, and beginning to interrogate the idiotic fucks at gunpoint, I find no less that a familiar face has come with them. A familiar face I would have rather not seen again in the slightest.
+identity confirmation, Adjek, Venlil engineer+
"YOU...What, are you doing here, again?"
I stepped forward, into the cargo shuttle, the Praetorian I controlled looming over them, over him, by nearly one and a half meters. I made certain to emphasize that size difference. One does not just crash in me like this without a good reason, or I'd be testing how long a Venlil survives vacuum.
Adjek decided to speak up, fear laden in his voice. "I-I-I...W-we were being chased by an Arxur vessel on the course here! T-They ignored the human's truce and decided to p-pursue us directly!"
I faltered a bit at that. Chased? The Arxur supposedly promised that they wouldn't attack the Venlil in-system, but given how much the bad blood between the Arxur and herbivore races was hyped up, I couldn't toss out the possibility.
"Is he telling the truth?" I swung the Praetorian's fake head about the room, scanning over each Venlil in the audience. It wasn't necessary, I had a panoramic view just from the chest optics alone, but the psychological effect and bait of having a head was palpable. They all parroted something similar to what Adjek and the pilot said, so I had no clear contradiction to go off of yet.
But I wasn't done with intimidation, I warmed the cannon muzzle to be visible within the deep red visual spectrum, and aimed it at him.
"Tell me everything, now."
He began to describe his intent and clearance for coming here...but reality decided to be a pain at that exact moment, as the likely culprit entered the hangar. Thankfully, I wasn't hampered by multitasking. A section of me split attention equally to the Arxur ship landing in my bay.
This ship, supposedly the Ambusher-class Goring Claw going off the IFF, was an armed dropship of some sort capable of intro-extra-atmospheric operation, given the rotary variable mode engines. They had been given landing clearance, but not by me, no, instead by the shipyard.
I would need to ask the UN to bring down that blackout protocol soon. This is immensely inconvenient to not have access to monitoring and communication outside myself, except through Hailey. Nevertheless, I positioned my remaining Praetorians around the likely exit of the dropship, awaiting it to open and...greet...these likely troublemakers. I had one Praetorian stand directly front-and-center to the back end, and aim weapons, but not arm them at the dropship hangar doors.
With a hiss, and a burst of slightly depressurized gas, the door opened, and out marched a line of two pairs of two Arxur guards. Their gear looked highly ceremonial, given its lack of tactical or efficient features, and the choice of weapon being a spear of some sort with a sidearm still holstered. Behind them, walked an even more gaudy individual than the guards, an Arxur with a prominent scar across their face covered in flamboyant ceremonial uniform. I was almost certain this was Chief Hunter Isif, Lithke's commanding officer, given Hailey's description of the visitors earlier. Behind him marched a set of less extravagantly dressed figures, likely advisors of some sort. And, of course, Lithke.
I wouldn't just let them off the hook so easily though, despite their far better entrance.
"Chief Hunter Isif. Lithke. You had best have a good reason for making a Venlil ship crash into my hangar."
Date [standardized human time]: October 24, 2136
Those idiots seriously did not-
...No, calm yourself, a Chief Hunter must always look composed, even in the face of absurdity.
The pilot in control of this Ambusher had heard my order to follow the Venlil in, got target fixation, and decided to escalate it to a chase. I would have him lashed for the offense later, but for now, I needed to quickly rekindle what little good will the Arxur had in Red One's eyes.
Losing it now could mean turning up hungry forever.
"I apologize for my pilot's unprofessional actions. He will be punished severely later for the transgression of letting his instincts override both human and my orders. Is there anything I can do further to fix your appetite, Red One?"
The robot frontmost of our shuttle stepped forward, it's bulk and size intimidating even by Arxur standards. It towered tall enough to nearly be at my head height despite the fact I was standing on the dropship ramp. Red One's response was curt, and [quick to the kill]. "You can start by convincing the odd twenty-five or so Venlil engineers your pilot chased into crashing on my hangar deck that you aren't here to eat them all, or whatever sickening actions you Arxur do. When that's done, then you may converse with Hailey Whitmer."
At least it wasn't "you've done enough, stop". I'd seen plenty disappear after that particular response in the Dominion.
"Fine. Blades!" I shouted to the ceremony guard I was issued. "Two of you will hold the pilot at the ship for punishment. He is to not eat, nor rest, nor do anything until I return. The rest will assist Lithke in assuaging the prey that they are safe...for now. I must speak with Red One while you do."
They saluted, and went about their way.
Good, everyone bought it. In a sense, this was funnily enough just the distraction I needed. Perhaps I'll reduce the pilot's lashing count quietly for that.
Now...for the harder part. I had no idea if Red would sense my intentions, and so-
The combat drone spoke once again. "Lithke's sung your praises, Chief Hunter Isif. An icon of 'applied cruelty' in his words. I'm curious as to why that should be praised, out of all things in a leader."
We're still too close to the ship, even if none are around to hear it, audio logs might pick up any dissenting thoughts. I should bring this conversation elsewhere.
"I see Lithke wasn't convincing on his own, it seems. Here, walk with me, I still have yet to meet your Special Envoy Hailey personally." I began to walk towards the group of humans near the other end of the hangar.
"So, you have met her?" Red One instantly picked up on the message, noticing the phrasing. So, she's capable of understanding subtlety...
"Yes, but not directly. She gave a presentation at the UN's discussion on you, which I attended."
"And what, pray tell, did you learn about there?" Red One seemed to press me slightly on the session, clearly looking for something. I'd play along, get in their favor.
"Plenty. You're by far the most powerful ship in the galaxy, as far as I can tell. The Humans and Venlil alike are afraid of you, but the former less-so, seeing a more mixed reaction to your presence."
"And what do you think of me?" Red questioned.
I began with a political mealy-mouth phrase.
"The Dominion is not-"
But she interrupted my train of thought. "No. I didn't ask what the Arxur thought. I was asking what you thought, specifically."
What?!
I scanned quickly, my head paced from side to side as I looked for any potential monitoring agent or tools nearby that could potentially pick up on my dialogue.
"You're...an interesting shake-up to the galaxy. Possibly even a means to an end I've been looking into."
There was a curiosity laden in that tone. "Is that so? What, pray tell, would an Arxur fleet leader need with me?"
Again, I checked about, to make certain none were close. "I...am trying to solve a personal problem. Your emergence is convenient to it..."
"Ah...so I was correct..." Red One's drone stopped in front of me for a moment, before turning directly to address me. "...The constant checking about other Arxur assets, the send-off of your personal guard, the overcompensation on the facial details and micromovements, the ordering of Lithke to 'convince' me of Dominion ideals. How much of it is an act, Chief Hunter Isif?"
She already found me out!?
The mask dropped in a panic, knowing none were close enough to pick up on it. "Quiet! How did you pick up on that?" I hissed under my breath to them.
She neglected to answer that statement directly, instead asking another question. "That's not important. The better thing to ask, is what exactly do you want with me?"
Well, since the meat has been spoiled...
I decided to be blunt, and honest. "I need either a line to directly converse with you on a sensitive matter later, or a method to do it now. There is a deep sickness within the Arxur, and you are a possible lynchpin to excise it. But it is traitorous in nature to Betterment, and they have agents everywhere. I would need it to be done away from their ears."
"I am currently operating in blackout conditions. I cannot send or receive signals from the outside without going through a UN transponder, so the first option is out currently. You need a distraction then, while you're here." Red's drone turned back around and continued walking, not giving away anything to the outside of her sudden skinning of my fake personality. "That can be arranged. But not this instant, we are already too close to outside ears for an extended conversation."
"A codeword, then? Some indicator that I may step away and talk securely with you?"
"A codeword is a start, but I'm more concerned about your personal guard. Are they loyal to you enough to ignore such a conversation?"
"Absolutely not. Effectively none of the group that has come along with me is loyal enough to hear this."
Red One didn't speak immediately, but the pause was small. "A full separation might be possible. I have an idea during the tour. If I say the phrase, 'Feel free to peruse' to you specifically, it will mean I have sufficiently separated attention enough that you may speak to me securely. Do you understand?"
She already has a plan? Her speed on that matter is dizzying.
I would have to trust her method. "I understand."
"Good, mask up again, we are within the distance of maximum human audible range given this volume."
Her matter of figuring out my intentions and act that quickly was unnerving, but it made some sense for a sentient computer. She likely thought far faster than the average Arxur, or even Human. But I could consider that later, I needed to get back in character. While my physical demeanor hadn't wavered any, I needed to give off the mental face of a Chief Hunter once again to allay suspicions. Especially since my personal guard were likely to return soon.
Hailey Whitmer noticed us soon after, and disengaged herself from talking with the other Humans. She began her way over here, leaving them to huddle around their ship, still unloading a collection of scientific equipment and personal belongings. "Chief Hunter Isif! Welcome to the UECNS Nemesis. What happened exactly that caused the Venlil to crash in like that, however? I heard a concerning bit that they were chased?"
I lashed my tail in frustration at that. "Our pilot idiotically got fixated on the Venlil ship. He will be punished later. For now I apologize on their behalf. I will try and...convince the Venlil's not to fear soon, but I honestly don't expect them to listen. They are prey, after all, sniveling in fear at the slightest provocation."
Hailey looked annoyed at that statement, but I could at least take personal solace in knowing it was mere persona. She would simply have to deal with it. "That's rather rude to our allies, Isif."
I corrected her: "Your allies, Human. The prey do not interest me. No, what interests me and my cohort is this ship." I pointed a claw at the robotic soldier behind me.. "I have already met Red One herself, and as you are the UN's Envoy here, I must meet you as well. Lithke has spoken much about both of you."
Hailey's expression changed from veiled frustration to surprise at that. "He has? Hah! I did charm-...oh, excuse my manners. When your entourage arrives over here, we can begin a proper tour with the both of us at the helm. Red?"
A voice emanated from the walls. "Yes, Hailey?"
"Do you have a path listed for a proper tour throughout your facilities?"
She responded immediately. "Yes. The UEC military has conducted tours before of my hull to other officials. I can follow said pathing, ignoring areas currently exposed to vacuum or damaged heavily. It will cover roughly 45% of the ship, and with transportation aid, take roughly 4 and a half hours."
Hailey clapped her hands together. "Perfect! When the three groups are gathered properly here, we can begin."
Given I could see my guard returning, thankfully not laden with prey blood or wounds, that would be soon.
+READING MAIN SEQ.MEM+
+ADDENDUM: ADJUSTED DATE 24.10.2136+
I have had tours done of my shipself before. When my form was still under construction, Commander Theodore William Billingsly had given a walk-around to Yasmine, in preparation to turn over the role of Captain to her. The visit had gone rather easily, and familiarized her with my layout quickly in a professional manner. I had given numerous miniature tours of my layout to new crew members, with assistance from more established crew. I figured tours were nothing too special to my sensibilities and experience.
But I had never quite had the experience of juggling a tour where each distinct species of the tour was at odds with the other two. Listening to them was taxing.
"What are you looking at, leaflicker?"
"H-Help! I-It wants to e-e-eat me!!!"
"Could y'all just get along for a single moment? We're coming up on the barracks, supposedly, and yet you're at each other's throats!"
"Of course we're at their throats, those are rather delicious to tear out."
"You predators would focus on our vulnerable spots, w-wouldn't you!"
"Fuck's sake, you can't behave, can y'all?"
"Jealous of our vicious nature?"
"No we're not! What you do to the other races in this galaxy is abhorrent!"
"Yeah, you Arxur monsters have nothing to be proud of! I've lost family to your kind!"
Very taxing.
The human team and Hailey were trying to somewhat wrangle the mood down, but the Arxur and Venlil despised one another, and it showed. There was no quieting-down of their feud for more than a few minutes, before it started up again for the smallest altercations. I was glad I had brought a host of Praetorians to keep them physically separate somewhat, as I'd hate to have seen any humans hurt in the way.
Instead, I tried to focus on just providing an air of authority, as Hailey led them throughout my assorted systems and layout, only providing input where she did not know about. There were at least some receptive comments of myself during the tour that didn't result in lambasting the other two parties.
"The internal layout of this ship is rather unique. It doesn't look like anything in the Federation proper." A Venlil engineer by the name of Joluk mentioned.
"Yeah, I know!" Said a human scientist by the name of George Oscoda. "It's very...Death Star meets Nostromo, made a bit wider, then painted gunmetal black with red detailing."
Joluk turned back to him. "I have no idea what those are, but I don't like the sound of a Death Star." Their tail went ramrod straight, hanging down at the comment. Perhaps a body language fear response?
I decided to clarify from a drone nearby. "The internal design pattern of the UEC favors a highly geometric, hexagonal or octagonal hall layout, for maximum support with little freestanding support. A three-to-two width to height ratio also helps alleviate claustrophobic concerns, and detriments mental health minimally for extended stays."
George spoke up again. "I guess that's fair, but nothing will change how depressingly dark and scarred-up some of these corridors and bulkheads are currently. I get that it's battle damage, but..."
Lithke piped in from the front. "Nemesis wears her scars proudly. She is a predator forged in war, none escape without scars." I couldn't find a reason to directly deny said statement. I did sometimes prefer the reminder of how many Compact Janissaries had died within myself. How I shivered in delight at knowing they met their ends aboard my hull.
I decided to just remain silent on that. Hailey also responded to that soon after. "Well, honor besides, a lot of that damage will have to be repaired eventually. No amount of self-righteousness excuses holes to vacuum in some spots." She was also right. There were various spots throughout me that were not even enterable, let alone habitable as I was. Numerous collapsed-in sections, holes in my hull all-throughout. There wasn't even a main engines section anymore, with the aft exposed to space after redlining to Earth to save them from the Federation fleet. No amount of scars would justify not repairing battle damage.
I was at least partially glad they could not read Compact Standard. The various little easter eggs of alien languages scattered on my walls were filled with warnings and resignations of regret for boarding me. I left them there, to add to the ambient horror of unwelcome borders, but currently it just felt...out of place. I did not want to scare the people on board.
Thankfully there were few along this path, and none noticed it as the language it was offhand, so I avoided those questions. As we walked to the entrance doors to the barracks, there was a hallway we would have to cross first. One I had kept tenderly over the centuries.
I decided to speak ahead of time on it. "We are coming up on a particular area of mine en route to the general barracks. It was not something made in my time with humanity, but more...a personal project. Reminders and trophies of what and who I fought for both myself, and any others who might unfortunately find themselves this far into my halls." Some of the Arxur looked intrigued by that statement.
Hailey looked a little nervous at the way I introduced it. "I-I wouldn't really call it something particularly-"
I kept going over her response. It wasn't particularly polite, but if I was to make a maximal psychological distraction for Isif to say his piece, it would need to be done...
As a drone already within put the finishing touches on the arrangement, and skittered away into the dark lofts above, the doors opened to my favorite rooms, and I introduced the hallway ahead.
"Welcome...to my Collection."
2024.06.09 16:30 Relative-Obscurity I'm blind, and operate an elevator for a living. My passengers keep disappearing.
Last year, when my ten year prison "stint" was finally up, and I re-entered society, I encountered some... obstacles.
Obstacles like.. Lack of upward mobility. Prejudices and stigmas. Wages and earnings lower than the general population. Undesirable and oftentimes dangerous jobs. And lack of protection from wrongful termination.
Not to mention, an already tough job market, and the fact that my parole required that I maintain steady employment, or face re-incarceration.
Which is why, when I finally got a job offer, after six months of aggressive job hunting, I jumped at the opportunity, giving absolutely no fucks as to how I was actually making ends meet.
"Ever operate a freight elevator before?" Mr. Winfred, the manager of "The Cornelius" and my new boss, asked me my first day on the job.
"No, sir." I replied honestly, as I ran my fingers along the doors of the antiquated contraption, the only remaining evidence of the recently renovated luxury building's ancient past.
"Normally these old things aren't used for passengers, but the building's pretentious designers thought it might add a certain charm to its otherwise sterile decor. Which is where you come in." He continued, as I heard him slide open the freight elevator's outside doors...
SLAM!
...Followed by its scissored metal inside doors.
SCREEEECH!
I heard Mr. Winfred step inside and, using my cane, scanned the interior of the rather large elevator, which must have been eight feet by eight feet, and followed him in.
Instantly, my nose was hit with an overpowering, musty scent, like the kind you'd smell in a basement, combined with your grandmother's attic.
He then closed both doors behind us.
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
"Now this here." Mr Winfred added, taking my hand and placing it on the handle of a lever, "Is how you move the elevator from floor to floor. Up for up. Down for down. You'll hear a click when you reach each floor, which will be helpful for someone like yourself." He said, clearly calling attention to the fact that I'm blind.
Someone like myself? I scoffed internally. You ignorant, entitled piece of shit.
Truth is, I've always had a bit of a short fuse. Which I guess, looking back on it, is what got me into prison in the first place.
But in my ten years of incarceration, I was given tools to combat my anger issues. Tools like reminding myself that it was nothing new. Assholes like him were always dropping unintentional microaggressions. It had been something I'd grown used to, and given my probation, wasn't a battle worth fighting.
"Yes sir." I replied through my teeth, as I begrudgingly swallowed my pride.
"Now, why don't you spend today practicing. Our first residents don't move in until tomorrow."
—
In just a matter of a week or so, as the doors of "The Cornelius" opened to its new tenants, I learned pretty much everything I needed to know about the job.
Said tenants were rich. Very rich. And most of them acted as such. Entitled. Obnoxious. Holier than thou. Especially given my own social class. But a few of them weren't so bad, and tipped well.
Mr. Winfred's assistant, Jane, was a lovely human being. Patient, kind, thoughtful, understanding. Especially when compared to both the building's uptight residents, and Mr. Winfred himself. It had been years since I had dated, and the very thought of meeting a partner stressed me out to no end, but if I was to find someone, I hoped she'd be like Jane.
The elevator didn't open on the basement level. As I'd learned countless times, it was possible to go there, but the doors simply wouldn't open.
The old freight itself was finicky as fuck. Stop the lever one second too early, or one second too late, and when the doors open, you're halfway between a floor. But eventually, I got used to it, to the point where most of the building's tenants assumed the role of freight operator had always been my job. And when you're good at your service job, and do it with a smile on your face, the tips start flowing.
And so, all was well for the first couple weeks on the job...
...A seemingly refreshing return to normalcy, after ten long years...
...Until...
...The disappearances started happening.
—
I was just arriving to work one day, when I heard about the first disappearance.
"Have you seen - I mean, have you been in contact with Elizabeth Davis? From room 401?" Mr. Winfred asked, after correcting himself. Something he did often, which continued to annoy me.
"Um." I replied, unsure of where he was going with the question. "Not since yesterday. She got back from work, and I brought her up to the fourth floor. But come to think of it, I don't think she rode the elevator down this morning. Like she usually does."
"Interesting." My boss replied, before continuing. "She disappeared yesterday."
"Disappeared?" I asked.
"Yeah, husband said she never came home last night."
"Hmm. Well I know for certain that I brought her to the fourth floor. Did you check the hallway surveillance footage?"
"Not yet. Unfortunately the building inspector's in today, and I won't have time until tomorrow. Let's hope she just went somewhere, or got lost. In the meantime, keep an eye out - I mean - just, let me know if you hear of anything suspicious."
"Yes sir," I replied, once again resisting the urge to snap on him, before heading for the elevator, where I started the day's shift.
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
That day, I did my best to do as Mr. Winfred had asked, and listened carefully for any signs of mischief.
But the day went on, business as usual and by the end of the day, I hadn't noticed anything out of the ordinary...
...Except... The only thing of note was a difference in Mr. Lawrence's demeanor. The tenant of room 805, he was a salesman, and acted like one. When I say the man could talk, the man could talk. To a point where whenever he was a passenger in the old freight elevator, despite the long ride from floor one to floor eight, I'd rarely have a chance to get a word in.
But this time... was different. This time, Mr. Lawrence entered the elevator chatting away, just as he always did. But about halfway up, he just... stopped talking. And the thing about my job is, if someone chooses to talk or not talk, it's their decision, and none of my business. So I left him alone, and when we reached the eighth floor, I simply said goodnight. To which, he didn't reply.
Must be going through something. I thought to myself, having been unable to truly get a sense of his composure, without being able to see him, before closing the double doors and heading off to help the next passenger.
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
—
Later that night, Mr. Winfred called me into his office, and asked me to take a seat beside his assistant, Jane.
"Mr. Owens. Are you aware of the situation that's going on in the building?" He asked, in an interrogating tone.
"Um... yes, you told me about it yesterday. The disappearance, sir." I replied.
"Disappearances now. Plural." He said sternly.
"But... who else?" I asked.
"Mr. Lawrence."
"What happened to him?"
"Well, to be honest, I was hoping you could tell me. Cause much like Ms.Davis, the last place he was seen was going into your elevator."
"What about the cameras in the hallways?"
"I'm afraid that after reviewing the tapes, after stepping into your elevator, neither Ms. Davis, or Mr Lawrence, ever stepped out."
"But that's... not... possible."
"Mr. Owens. I'm going to give you an opportunity. Is there anything you want to tell me? I know you have a sordid past."
"Mr. Winfred!" Jane interjected, clearly offended by his words, and implications.
"Quiet, Jane." He scolded, before continuing. "Answer the question, Mr. Owens."
I didn't know what to say. I was so shocked, so flustered, by what he was implying, that I simply froze.
"Mr. Owens!" He screamed.
"I... I... don't know!" I cried out, as I heard Jane squirm in her seat. "I'm telling you, the last time I heard from either of them, I took them up to their floors. But I'm-"
"You're what! Blind?"
"Well, yes sir. I don't see what goes on inside the elevator. I just let them on and off."
"Mr. Owens. If they got on your elevator, and never got off, where could they possibly have gone?"
"I... don't... know." I replied, at this point, wanting to grab him by force, demand that he never speak to me that way again, and scream out my innocence. But my next parole appointment was the following week, so once again, all I could do was just bite my tongue.
Mr. Winfred paused for a moment, took a deep breath, and regained his composure.
"Mr. Owens, I could go to the police now. And that would be very bad for someone like you."
Fuck. He's right. I thought to myself, realizing, that if he went to the police, and I was even remotely suspected of what was going on in the building, it was back to prison for me.
"But lucky for you," He continued, "There are things going on in the building that I wouldn't want to bring unwanted attention to. And for that reason, I have decided not to go to the police... yet. But consider this a warning. And know, that I have a repairman coming first thing tomorrow morning to install a security camera inside the freight elevator, so I can see what exactly it is that you're doing in there."
I had know idea how to react to Mr. Winfred's continued accusations. So I simply remained silent.
"Now get out of here and go home! We'll reconvene on this tomorrow." He said dismissively, before Jane walked me out of the room, down the hall, and outside the building, where I planned to return home for the night.
—
Fifteen minutes later, we were at a bar down the street, where Jane apparently frequented.
"But where could they possibly have gone?" I asked her, my hands trembling at both the thought of people disappearing in the elevator, and that it was happening under my watch.
"Thing is," Jane said, as she finished her beer. "There's something you should know about the building."
""The Cornelius"?"
"No, from before it was called that. It used to be a factory of some kind."
"Is that what Mr. Winfred was talking about when he said that there were things going on in the building? That he didn't want to bring unwanted attention to?"
"Well, yes and no. Yes, in a sense, that Mr. Winfred cut some corners, and rather than fully renovate the entire warehouse, he simply walled off entire sections of the old structure. Like the basement."
"And no?"
"No, in a sense, that even Mr. Winfred doesn't know what's really going on in the elevator. Sure, it'd be easy to pin it on you, especially with your criminal record - no offense... but even he knows that it's probably something... else."
"Something else?"
"See, that's where things get hazy. Because no one knows what exactly went on at the factory, before it became "The Cornelius." But rumors have it... it was laboratory of some kind, and some fucked up shit went on inside there."
"Like what?"
"That, my friend. I don't know. But what I do know is... I better be getting to bed."
"Fair enough. Well, thanks for the drink, and the support." I said with a smile, as we made our way out of the bar.
"Yeah, don't let Mr. Winfred get to you. And try not to worry too much."
—
Contrary to Jane's suggestion, that night I worried... a lot. About the disappearances, what might be causing them, whatever may have gone on in the factory, and most importantly, about everything getting pinned on me.
I couldn't fall asleep, tossing and turning in bed as my mind raced. And each time I finally passed out, I'd wake up in a panic attack, my heart pounding, short of breath and in a cold sweat.
But it didn't stop there. The uncomfortable feeling of terror and fear, accompanied by the vibrating sensation of adrenaline pumping through my body, remained well into the next morning, when I stepped back into the elevator, terrified by what might be going on inside there.
Please don't leave me alone in this fucking thing. I thought to myself.
And within a matter of minutes, my prayers were answered.
"How goes it?" The surveillance installation worker called out, his cheery disposition contrary to mine.
"Um... not too bad." I replied, lying through my teeth, as he stepped inside.
But after a minute or two of sharing the elevator with him, my fears lessened and my body relaxed, comforted by the positive conversation, and the metallic, clinking sounds of the installation.
Everything's okay. The doors are open. And he's talking. I thought to myself.
But eventually, the man finished installing the camera, and began wrapping up the job.
"Well, that's it! Camera's all installed and running now." He called out. "Let's just take the elevator for a spin and make sure we don't lose the signal."
"Yes, of course." I replied, before reaching for the double doors...
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
..And moving the lever up.
We started moving.
"Fascinating job, I must say, elevator operator. But I suppose you could say the same for mine."
"Pays the bills." I replied, feigning a chuckle.
If he's here, and he's talking, then I'm safe. I continued to reassure myself.
But a few minutes into our ascent, just like Mr. Lawrence... the man... suddenly stopped talking.
"Alright, looks like it's working fine. We can head back down and-"
SILENCE.
"Hello?" I asked.
But he didn't respond.
Fuck. I thought to myself, realizing that whatever caused Ms. Davis, and Mr. Lawrence, and seemingly now the repairman to disappear, could still be in the elevator with me.
Standing there, shaking, sweat rolling down my brow, I backed myself into the corner of the elevator, as I reached for the lever, pressed it down, and the elevator began to make its descent back to the ground floor.
When I finally reached the lobby...
DING!
I scrambled to open the doors...
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
...And darted out, gasping for air, expecting to find a safe haven.
But instead, all I heard was the sound of Mr. Winfred's voice. "Where is the repairman?"
—
A few minutes later, I was once again sitting in Mr. Winfred's office, next to Jane, this time attempting to explain what had happened.
"...And then he stopped talking! Just like Mr. Lawrence."
"You know what, Mr. Owens. I'm tired of your excuses. And now that we have a working camera in the elevator, it's time to find out what's really going on inside there." He threatened, as I heard him clicking away on his computer, clearly reviewing the footage.
"Please do!" I cried out, "I'm telling you, it's not me."
That's when... Mr. Winfred, and Jane, both went silent.
"Hello?" I called out, unable to see what was really going on. Given the fact that my passengers had recently been going silent, the thought crossed my mind that they too had disappeared, but I could still hear their breathing in the room. Breathing, that sounded like it was increasing rapidly...
...Until they broke the silence.
"Oh... my..." Jane said, struggling to catch her breath.
"That can't be. Let me rewind the tape." Mr. Winfred mumbled, the most scared I had ever heard him.
"What is it?" I asked, as they seemingly played back the video.
I would later find out from Jane that the footage would show myself and the repairman in the elevator, as a slithering, grotesque, humanoid figure, suddenly climbed down from the roof of the elevator, wrapped it's slimy arms around the repairman, then somehow hopped back out of the elevator, and pulled the man up with it. Leaving me standing there, completely unaware of what had just happened.
But in that moment, Mr. Winfred must have realized the... complications associated with reporting such a bizarre phenomenon, and instead decided to finally pin it on me.
"Mr. Owens, you shouldn't have done that!" He cried out.
"Mr. Winfred, what are you talking about?" Jane asked, "You and I just watched the same footage."
That's when I heard him drag a file to his computer's trash and delete it.
CRUNCH.
"Stay out of this, Jane. This man has killed three people in the elevator. I knew I shouldn't have hired an ex con!"
"But sir, I didn't-" I tried to reply, before he interrupted.
"Mr. Owens, I'm picking up the phone, and calling the police. I'd suggest you just stay put."
"But Mr. Winfred, I'm telling you, I didn't do anything!"
"Yes, is this 911? I'm the manager of "The Cornelius" and I'd like to report three murders in my building."
"We'd better go." I heard Jane say, as I felt her place her hand on my shoulder.
"And yes, I have reason to believe the killer is our elevator operator, an ex convict, who is sitting right in front of me."
"Come on, let's go!" Jane screamed, as she tugged at my shirt, I hopped up from my seat, and she led me out of the office, down the hall, and into... of all places... the old freight elevator, as she explained to me what she had seen on the surveillance tape.
—
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
"Take us to the basement!" Jane called out.
"But the basement is walled off." I replied.
"Just do it!" She insisted, before I moved the lever down and the elevator began to move.
I spent the ride catching my breath, until we finally reached the basement level.
DING!
"Now what?" I asked.
But Jane didn't reply.
"Jane?"
Oh fuck. I thought to myself. The monster.
That's when I turned to the center of the freight elevator, where Jane had been standing, reached out into the unknown...
...And sure enough, felt the cold, slimy, skin of the creature, wrapped around Jane's face, preventing her from making a sound.
Not knowing what else to do, I gripped its disgusting appendages with both hands, and slowly pried it off Jane, as she let out a...
...SCREAM..
...And the monster's arm quickly slithered away, back up through the roof of the freight.
Jane dropped to the ground, coughing violently.
"You okay?" I asked her.
But rather than responding, she simply handed me something...
....I opened my fist, to find a pair of keys.
"The lock above the lever. Unlock it." She instructed, still coughing, as I felt around the lever, found the lock, inserted the key, and unlocked it.
CLICK.
"The doors. They should open now." Jane said, as she stood up, having finally caught her breath.
SCREEEECH!
SLAM!
—
We arrived in the dark basement to smell the same, musty odor from the freight elevator.
After her eyes adjusted and she scanned our surroundings, Jane informed me that this floor looked nothing like the other eight, newly renovated floors, with their modern feel and minimalistic designs.
Instead, the basement was a window into the building's former self, when it had been a factory. Its walls brick and crumbling, its floors concrete and cracked.
And scattered everywhere, were the dusty remnants of laboratory equipment. Devices, machines, tanks, most of which were destroyed, or disconnected, or both.
"What went on down here?" I asked.
"From the looks of it, something inhumane," Jane said, after she picked up a few tattered pieces of paper from one of the lab stations, and told me what was on it.
"The first page looks like some sort of a diagram, of a man being pumped with chemicals from tanks. And the second, a drawing... of the creature from the elevator. In pencil beside it, someone appears to have labeled it "The Silencer.""
Silencer. I thought to myself, before remembering that the creature seemed to always silence the sounds of its victims, and to have been repulsed by Jane's scream. At the same time, it had never bothered me in the elevator, as I tended to stand there in silence.
But before I could dwell too much on the thought, Jane interrupted.
"If you don't mind my asking. What did you go to prison for in the first place?" She asked.
"It's okay," I said, surprised she had waited this long to ask, before contemplating the best way to explain what had happened. "’Cause of my temper. Some guy was being a dick on the train platform. We got into a scuffle, and he accidentally fell into the tracks."
"Over what? Did he insult you? Your blindness?"
"No, I'm afraid not." I replied, "We were drunk... and arguing over... a basketball game, of all things. He was... my friend."
"Oh my God. I'm so sorry."
"It's okay."
Jane put her hand on my shoulder, and we stood there in silence for a moment...
...Until suddenly, we heard the sound of Mr. Winfred, and the police approaching, as they ran down what must have been a hidden set of stairs from the ground level to the basement.
"Come on, follow me!" Jane called out, as she took me by the hand and led me into what I'd soon discover was a labyrinthian network of old passages, while the police and Mr. Winfred both called out to us.
"This is the police! Put your hands on your head, and turn yourself in!"
"You're trapped, Mr. Owens! Just confess your crimes, and you'll simply go back to jail!"
We continued to run deeper and deeper into the passages, as our pursuers began to close in on us, their footsteps getting closer... and closer... and closer...
...Until suddenly, the sound of their footsteps was replaced by that of...
...SCREAMING...
...And they suddenly went...
...SILENT.
"What the?" Jane whispered.
"The creature." I whispered. "It must be down here."
That's when we hatched a plan.
—
Having found our way out of the labyrinth and back to the entrance of the laboratory, where we had arrived in the old freight elevator, I found myself standing alone, waiting, as I nervously tapped my cane on the basement floor, Jane having gone off on her own.
That's when I heard Mr. Winfred emerge from the passages, alone, and call out to me.
"Mr. Owens! There's nowhere to run! Even your beloved elevator is gone. You're cornered." He taunted, as I backed towards the elevator and tapped at it with my cane, its doors open, its shaft empty.
"What did you say?" I asked, encouraging him to talk louder.
"What are you, deaf now too?" The ignorant old man snapped back. "I said, you have nowhere to run!"
"I'm sorry, you'll have to forgive me," I said sarcastically, pointing to my ears. "Can you repeat that again?"
That's when Mr. Winfred began approaching and screamed, "You worthless, ex con! I knew I shouldn't have hired you in the first place! And now, you'll go back to where you belong!"
But suddenly...
...Mr. Winfred went SILENT...
...As the creature must have wrapped its slimy tentacles around his face.
That's when I seized the opportunity, ran over to Mr. Winfred, gripped the cold body of the creature, which was indeed wrapped around him, turned, and flung them both behind me, into the hollow elevator shaft...
SLAM!
...Before hitting the "Up" button on the wall, and calling the freight elevator down.
Suddenly, the gears of the elevator above could be heard turning away, and the machine began its quick descent down.
"Mr. Owens, no!" Mr. Winfred cried out, clearly now separated from the creature.
I froze for a moment, as my mind raced back to the night of the tragic accident, when my friend called out to me from the train tracks, and I was unable to save him in time...
....Until I eventually snapped myself out of it, and willed myself to save Mr. Winfred, no matter how evil the asshole's intentions may have been, reaching out my hand out, and pulling him up and out of the elevator, just as the freight car came crash down to the basement level.
SLAM!
CRUNCH!
"RAAAAAAAARRRRR!" The slimy beast cried out, as it was crushed under the old elevator's weight.
DING!
The basement fell SILENT for a moment, until...
SCREEEECH!
SLAM!
...Jane stepped out and said, "Going up?"
But the joke was met was silence. I simply stood there, shaking, as Mr. Winfred did the same, clearly shocked by the events that had just occurred.
—
A few weeks later, after the authorities had done a full sweep of the basement, and cleared out all traces of the building' old laboratory, I found myself once again back in the manager's office.
"Mr. Owens. This is the last time I'm gonna tell you this!" Jane joked, as I heard her recline back in what was once Mr. Winfred's chair, having been named interim manager since her boss's recent and... ironic... prison sentencing.
"Who's the convict now?" I said with a smile, before making my way out of the office.
"Wait." Jane said, stopping me at the door. "You sure you want to go back to operating the elevator? After all that's happened? Like I said, the doorman job is yours if you want it."
"What's the worst that could happen?" I replied with a smile. "There's another one of those creatures in the building somewhere?"
submitted by Relative-Obscurity to nosleep [link] [comments]
Obstacles like.. Lack of upward mobility. Prejudices and stigmas. Wages and earnings lower than the general population. Undesirable and oftentimes dangerous jobs. And lack of protection from wrongful termination.
Not to mention, an already tough job market, and the fact that my parole required that I maintain steady employment, or face re-incarceration.
Which is why, when I finally got a job offer, after six months of aggressive job hunting, I jumped at the opportunity, giving absolutely no fucks as to how I was actually making ends meet.
"Ever operate a freight elevator before?" Mr. Winfred, the manager of "The Cornelius" and my new boss, asked me my first day on the job.
"No, sir." I replied honestly, as I ran my fingers along the doors of the antiquated contraption, the only remaining evidence of the recently renovated luxury building's ancient past.
"Normally these old things aren't used for passengers, but the building's pretentious designers thought it might add a certain charm to its otherwise sterile decor. Which is where you come in." He continued, as I heard him slide open the freight elevator's outside doors...
SLAM!
...Followed by its scissored metal inside doors.
SCREEEECH!
I heard Mr. Winfred step inside and, using my cane, scanned the interior of the rather large elevator, which must have been eight feet by eight feet, and followed him in.
Instantly, my nose was hit with an overpowering, musty scent, like the kind you'd smell in a basement, combined with your grandmother's attic.
He then closed both doors behind us.
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
"Now this here." Mr Winfred added, taking my hand and placing it on the handle of a lever, "Is how you move the elevator from floor to floor. Up for up. Down for down. You'll hear a click when you reach each floor, which will be helpful for someone like yourself." He said, clearly calling attention to the fact that I'm blind.
Someone like myself? I scoffed internally. You ignorant, entitled piece of shit.
Truth is, I've always had a bit of a short fuse. Which I guess, looking back on it, is what got me into prison in the first place.
But in my ten years of incarceration, I was given tools to combat my anger issues. Tools like reminding myself that it was nothing new. Assholes like him were always dropping unintentional microaggressions. It had been something I'd grown used to, and given my probation, wasn't a battle worth fighting.
"Yes sir." I replied through my teeth, as I begrudgingly swallowed my pride.
"Now, why don't you spend today practicing. Our first residents don't move in until tomorrow."
—
In just a matter of a week or so, as the doors of "The Cornelius" opened to its new tenants, I learned pretty much everything I needed to know about the job.
Said tenants were rich. Very rich. And most of them acted as such. Entitled. Obnoxious. Holier than thou. Especially given my own social class. But a few of them weren't so bad, and tipped well.
Mr. Winfred's assistant, Jane, was a lovely human being. Patient, kind, thoughtful, understanding. Especially when compared to both the building's uptight residents, and Mr. Winfred himself. It had been years since I had dated, and the very thought of meeting a partner stressed me out to no end, but if I was to find someone, I hoped she'd be like Jane.
The elevator didn't open on the basement level. As I'd learned countless times, it was possible to go there, but the doors simply wouldn't open.
The old freight itself was finicky as fuck. Stop the lever one second too early, or one second too late, and when the doors open, you're halfway between a floor. But eventually, I got used to it, to the point where most of the building's tenants assumed the role of freight operator had always been my job. And when you're good at your service job, and do it with a smile on your face, the tips start flowing.
And so, all was well for the first couple weeks on the job...
...A seemingly refreshing return to normalcy, after ten long years...
...Until...
...The disappearances started happening.
—
I was just arriving to work one day, when I heard about the first disappearance.
"Have you seen - I mean, have you been in contact with Elizabeth Davis? From room 401?" Mr. Winfred asked, after correcting himself. Something he did often, which continued to annoy me.
"Um." I replied, unsure of where he was going with the question. "Not since yesterday. She got back from work, and I brought her up to the fourth floor. But come to think of it, I don't think she rode the elevator down this morning. Like she usually does."
"Interesting." My boss replied, before continuing. "She disappeared yesterday."
"Disappeared?" I asked.
"Yeah, husband said she never came home last night."
"Hmm. Well I know for certain that I brought her to the fourth floor. Did you check the hallway surveillance footage?"
"Not yet. Unfortunately the building inspector's in today, and I won't have time until tomorrow. Let's hope she just went somewhere, or got lost. In the meantime, keep an eye out - I mean - just, let me know if you hear of anything suspicious."
"Yes sir," I replied, once again resisting the urge to snap on him, before heading for the elevator, where I started the day's shift.
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
That day, I did my best to do as Mr. Winfred had asked, and listened carefully for any signs of mischief.
But the day went on, business as usual and by the end of the day, I hadn't noticed anything out of the ordinary...
...Except... The only thing of note was a difference in Mr. Lawrence's demeanor. The tenant of room 805, he was a salesman, and acted like one. When I say the man could talk, the man could talk. To a point where whenever he was a passenger in the old freight elevator, despite the long ride from floor one to floor eight, I'd rarely have a chance to get a word in.
But this time... was different. This time, Mr. Lawrence entered the elevator chatting away, just as he always did. But about halfway up, he just... stopped talking. And the thing about my job is, if someone chooses to talk or not talk, it's their decision, and none of my business. So I left him alone, and when we reached the eighth floor, I simply said goodnight. To which, he didn't reply.
Must be going through something. I thought to myself, having been unable to truly get a sense of his composure, without being able to see him, before closing the double doors and heading off to help the next passenger.
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
—
Later that night, Mr. Winfred called me into his office, and asked me to take a seat beside his assistant, Jane.
"Mr. Owens. Are you aware of the situation that's going on in the building?" He asked, in an interrogating tone.
"Um... yes, you told me about it yesterday. The disappearance, sir." I replied.
"Disappearances now. Plural." He said sternly.
"But... who else?" I asked.
"Mr. Lawrence."
"What happened to him?"
"Well, to be honest, I was hoping you could tell me. Cause much like Ms.Davis, the last place he was seen was going into your elevator."
"What about the cameras in the hallways?"
"I'm afraid that after reviewing the tapes, after stepping into your elevator, neither Ms. Davis, or Mr Lawrence, ever stepped out."
"But that's... not... possible."
"Mr. Owens. I'm going to give you an opportunity. Is there anything you want to tell me? I know you have a sordid past."
"Mr. Winfred!" Jane interjected, clearly offended by his words, and implications.
"Quiet, Jane." He scolded, before continuing. "Answer the question, Mr. Owens."
I didn't know what to say. I was so shocked, so flustered, by what he was implying, that I simply froze.
"Mr. Owens!" He screamed.
"I... I... don't know!" I cried out, as I heard Jane squirm in her seat. "I'm telling you, the last time I heard from either of them, I took them up to their floors. But I'm-"
"You're what! Blind?"
"Well, yes sir. I don't see what goes on inside the elevator. I just let them on and off."
"Mr. Owens. If they got on your elevator, and never got off, where could they possibly have gone?"
"I... don't... know." I replied, at this point, wanting to grab him by force, demand that he never speak to me that way again, and scream out my innocence. But my next parole appointment was the following week, so once again, all I could do was just bite my tongue.
Mr. Winfred paused for a moment, took a deep breath, and regained his composure.
"Mr. Owens, I could go to the police now. And that would be very bad for someone like you."
Fuck. He's right. I thought to myself, realizing, that if he went to the police, and I was even remotely suspected of what was going on in the building, it was back to prison for me.
"But lucky for you," He continued, "There are things going on in the building that I wouldn't want to bring unwanted attention to. And for that reason, I have decided not to go to the police... yet. But consider this a warning. And know, that I have a repairman coming first thing tomorrow morning to install a security camera inside the freight elevator, so I can see what exactly it is that you're doing in there."
I had know idea how to react to Mr. Winfred's continued accusations. So I simply remained silent.
"Now get out of here and go home! We'll reconvene on this tomorrow." He said dismissively, before Jane walked me out of the room, down the hall, and outside the building, where I planned to return home for the night.
—
Fifteen minutes later, we were at a bar down the street, where Jane apparently frequented.
"But where could they possibly have gone?" I asked her, my hands trembling at both the thought of people disappearing in the elevator, and that it was happening under my watch.
"Thing is," Jane said, as she finished her beer. "There's something you should know about the building."
""The Cornelius"?"
"No, from before it was called that. It used to be a factory of some kind."
"Is that what Mr. Winfred was talking about when he said that there were things going on in the building? That he didn't want to bring unwanted attention to?"
"Well, yes and no. Yes, in a sense, that Mr. Winfred cut some corners, and rather than fully renovate the entire warehouse, he simply walled off entire sections of the old structure. Like the basement."
"And no?"
"No, in a sense, that even Mr. Winfred doesn't know what's really going on in the elevator. Sure, it'd be easy to pin it on you, especially with your criminal record - no offense... but even he knows that it's probably something... else."
"Something else?"
"See, that's where things get hazy. Because no one knows what exactly went on at the factory, before it became "The Cornelius." But rumors have it... it was laboratory of some kind, and some fucked up shit went on inside there."
"Like what?"
"That, my friend. I don't know. But what I do know is... I better be getting to bed."
"Fair enough. Well, thanks for the drink, and the support." I said with a smile, as we made our way out of the bar.
"Yeah, don't let Mr. Winfred get to you. And try not to worry too much."
—
Contrary to Jane's suggestion, that night I worried... a lot. About the disappearances, what might be causing them, whatever may have gone on in the factory, and most importantly, about everything getting pinned on me.
I couldn't fall asleep, tossing and turning in bed as my mind raced. And each time I finally passed out, I'd wake up in a panic attack, my heart pounding, short of breath and in a cold sweat.
But it didn't stop there. The uncomfortable feeling of terror and fear, accompanied by the vibrating sensation of adrenaline pumping through my body, remained well into the next morning, when I stepped back into the elevator, terrified by what might be going on inside there.
Please don't leave me alone in this fucking thing. I thought to myself.
And within a matter of minutes, my prayers were answered.
"How goes it?" The surveillance installation worker called out, his cheery disposition contrary to mine.
"Um... not too bad." I replied, lying through my teeth, as he stepped inside.
But after a minute or two of sharing the elevator with him, my fears lessened and my body relaxed, comforted by the positive conversation, and the metallic, clinking sounds of the installation.
Everything's okay. The doors are open. And he's talking. I thought to myself.
But eventually, the man finished installing the camera, and began wrapping up the job.
"Well, that's it! Camera's all installed and running now." He called out. "Let's just take the elevator for a spin and make sure we don't lose the signal."
"Yes, of course." I replied, before reaching for the double doors...
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
..And moving the lever up.
We started moving.
"Fascinating job, I must say, elevator operator. But I suppose you could say the same for mine."
"Pays the bills." I replied, feigning a chuckle.
If he's here, and he's talking, then I'm safe. I continued to reassure myself.
But a few minutes into our ascent, just like Mr. Lawrence... the man... suddenly stopped talking.
"Alright, looks like it's working fine. We can head back down and-"
SILENCE.
"Hello?" I asked.
But he didn't respond.
Fuck. I thought to myself, realizing that whatever caused Ms. Davis, and Mr. Lawrence, and seemingly now the repairman to disappear, could still be in the elevator with me.
Standing there, shaking, sweat rolling down my brow, I backed myself into the corner of the elevator, as I reached for the lever, pressed it down, and the elevator began to make its descent back to the ground floor.
When I finally reached the lobby...
DING!
I scrambled to open the doors...
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
...And darted out, gasping for air, expecting to find a safe haven.
But instead, all I heard was the sound of Mr. Winfred's voice. "Where is the repairman?"
—
A few minutes later, I was once again sitting in Mr. Winfred's office, next to Jane, this time attempting to explain what had happened.
"...And then he stopped talking! Just like Mr. Lawrence."
"You know what, Mr. Owens. I'm tired of your excuses. And now that we have a working camera in the elevator, it's time to find out what's really going on inside there." He threatened, as I heard him clicking away on his computer, clearly reviewing the footage.
"Please do!" I cried out, "I'm telling you, it's not me."
That's when... Mr. Winfred, and Jane, both went silent.
"Hello?" I called out, unable to see what was really going on. Given the fact that my passengers had recently been going silent, the thought crossed my mind that they too had disappeared, but I could still hear their breathing in the room. Breathing, that sounded like it was increasing rapidly...
...Until they broke the silence.
"Oh... my..." Jane said, struggling to catch her breath.
"That can't be. Let me rewind the tape." Mr. Winfred mumbled, the most scared I had ever heard him.
"What is it?" I asked, as they seemingly played back the video.
I would later find out from Jane that the footage would show myself and the repairman in the elevator, as a slithering, grotesque, humanoid figure, suddenly climbed down from the roof of the elevator, wrapped it's slimy arms around the repairman, then somehow hopped back out of the elevator, and pulled the man up with it. Leaving me standing there, completely unaware of what had just happened.
But in that moment, Mr. Winfred must have realized the... complications associated with reporting such a bizarre phenomenon, and instead decided to finally pin it on me.
"Mr. Owens, you shouldn't have done that!" He cried out.
"Mr. Winfred, what are you talking about?" Jane asked, "You and I just watched the same footage."
That's when I heard him drag a file to his computer's trash and delete it.
CRUNCH.
"Stay out of this, Jane. This man has killed three people in the elevator. I knew I shouldn't have hired an ex con!"
"But sir, I didn't-" I tried to reply, before he interrupted.
"Mr. Owens, I'm picking up the phone, and calling the police. I'd suggest you just stay put."
"But Mr. Winfred, I'm telling you, I didn't do anything!"
"Yes, is this 911? I'm the manager of "The Cornelius" and I'd like to report three murders in my building."
"We'd better go." I heard Jane say, as I felt her place her hand on my shoulder.
"And yes, I have reason to believe the killer is our elevator operator, an ex convict, who is sitting right in front of me."
"Come on, let's go!" Jane screamed, as she tugged at my shirt, I hopped up from my seat, and she led me out of the office, down the hall, and into... of all places... the old freight elevator, as she explained to me what she had seen on the surveillance tape.
—
SLAM!
SCREEEECH!
"Take us to the basement!" Jane called out.
"But the basement is walled off." I replied.
"Just do it!" She insisted, before I moved the lever down and the elevator began to move.
I spent the ride catching my breath, until we finally reached the basement level.
DING!
"Now what?" I asked.
But Jane didn't reply.
"Jane?"
Oh fuck. I thought to myself. The monster.
That's when I turned to the center of the freight elevator, where Jane had been standing, reached out into the unknown...
...And sure enough, felt the cold, slimy, skin of the creature, wrapped around Jane's face, preventing her from making a sound.
Not knowing what else to do, I gripped its disgusting appendages with both hands, and slowly pried it off Jane, as she let out a...
...SCREAM..
...And the monster's arm quickly slithered away, back up through the roof of the freight.
Jane dropped to the ground, coughing violently.
"You okay?" I asked her.
But rather than responding, she simply handed me something...
....I opened my fist, to find a pair of keys.
"The lock above the lever. Unlock it." She instructed, still coughing, as I felt around the lever, found the lock, inserted the key, and unlocked it.
CLICK.
"The doors. They should open now." Jane said, as she stood up, having finally caught her breath.
SCREEEECH!
SLAM!
—
We arrived in the dark basement to smell the same, musty odor from the freight elevator.
After her eyes adjusted and she scanned our surroundings, Jane informed me that this floor looked nothing like the other eight, newly renovated floors, with their modern feel and minimalistic designs.
Instead, the basement was a window into the building's former self, when it had been a factory. Its walls brick and crumbling, its floors concrete and cracked.
And scattered everywhere, were the dusty remnants of laboratory equipment. Devices, machines, tanks, most of which were destroyed, or disconnected, or both.
"What went on down here?" I asked.
"From the looks of it, something inhumane," Jane said, after she picked up a few tattered pieces of paper from one of the lab stations, and told me what was on it.
"The first page looks like some sort of a diagram, of a man being pumped with chemicals from tanks. And the second, a drawing... of the creature from the elevator. In pencil beside it, someone appears to have labeled it "The Silencer.""
Silencer. I thought to myself, before remembering that the creature seemed to always silence the sounds of its victims, and to have been repulsed by Jane's scream. At the same time, it had never bothered me in the elevator, as I tended to stand there in silence.
But before I could dwell too much on the thought, Jane interrupted.
"If you don't mind my asking. What did you go to prison for in the first place?" She asked.
"It's okay," I said, surprised she had waited this long to ask, before contemplating the best way to explain what had happened. "’Cause of my temper. Some guy was being a dick on the train platform. We got into a scuffle, and he accidentally fell into the tracks."
"Over what? Did he insult you? Your blindness?"
"No, I'm afraid not." I replied, "We were drunk... and arguing over... a basketball game, of all things. He was... my friend."
"Oh my God. I'm so sorry."
"It's okay."
Jane put her hand on my shoulder, and we stood there in silence for a moment...
...Until suddenly, we heard the sound of Mr. Winfred, and the police approaching, as they ran down what must have been a hidden set of stairs from the ground level to the basement.
"Come on, follow me!" Jane called out, as she took me by the hand and led me into what I'd soon discover was a labyrinthian network of old passages, while the police and Mr. Winfred both called out to us.
"This is the police! Put your hands on your head, and turn yourself in!"
"You're trapped, Mr. Owens! Just confess your crimes, and you'll simply go back to jail!"
We continued to run deeper and deeper into the passages, as our pursuers began to close in on us, their footsteps getting closer... and closer... and closer...
...Until suddenly, the sound of their footsteps was replaced by that of...
...SCREAMING...
...And they suddenly went...
...SILENT.
"What the?" Jane whispered.
"The creature." I whispered. "It must be down here."
That's when we hatched a plan.
—
Having found our way out of the labyrinth and back to the entrance of the laboratory, where we had arrived in the old freight elevator, I found myself standing alone, waiting, as I nervously tapped my cane on the basement floor, Jane having gone off on her own.
That's when I heard Mr. Winfred emerge from the passages, alone, and call out to me.
"Mr. Owens! There's nowhere to run! Even your beloved elevator is gone. You're cornered." He taunted, as I backed towards the elevator and tapped at it with my cane, its doors open, its shaft empty.
"What did you say?" I asked, encouraging him to talk louder.
"What are you, deaf now too?" The ignorant old man snapped back. "I said, you have nowhere to run!"
"I'm sorry, you'll have to forgive me," I said sarcastically, pointing to my ears. "Can you repeat that again?"
That's when Mr. Winfred began approaching and screamed, "You worthless, ex con! I knew I shouldn't have hired you in the first place! And now, you'll go back to where you belong!"
But suddenly...
...Mr. Winfred went SILENT...
...As the creature must have wrapped its slimy tentacles around his face.
That's when I seized the opportunity, ran over to Mr. Winfred, gripped the cold body of the creature, which was indeed wrapped around him, turned, and flung them both behind me, into the hollow elevator shaft...
SLAM!
...Before hitting the "Up" button on the wall, and calling the freight elevator down.
Suddenly, the gears of the elevator above could be heard turning away, and the machine began its quick descent down.
"Mr. Owens, no!" Mr. Winfred cried out, clearly now separated from the creature.
I froze for a moment, as my mind raced back to the night of the tragic accident, when my friend called out to me from the train tracks, and I was unable to save him in time...
....Until I eventually snapped myself out of it, and willed myself to save Mr. Winfred, no matter how evil the asshole's intentions may have been, reaching out my hand out, and pulling him up and out of the elevator, just as the freight car came crash down to the basement level.
SLAM!
CRUNCH!
"RAAAAAAAARRRRR!" The slimy beast cried out, as it was crushed under the old elevator's weight.
DING!
The basement fell SILENT for a moment, until...
SCREEEECH!
SLAM!
...Jane stepped out and said, "Going up?"
But the joke was met was silence. I simply stood there, shaking, as Mr. Winfred did the same, clearly shocked by the events that had just occurred.
—
A few weeks later, after the authorities had done a full sweep of the basement, and cleared out all traces of the building' old laboratory, I found myself once again back in the manager's office.
"Mr. Owens. This is the last time I'm gonna tell you this!" Jane joked, as I heard her recline back in what was once Mr. Winfred's chair, having been named interim manager since her boss's recent and... ironic... prison sentencing.
"Who's the convict now?" I said with a smile, before making my way out of the office.
"Wait." Jane said, stopping me at the door. "You sure you want to go back to operating the elevator? After all that's happened? Like I said, the doorman job is yours if you want it."
"What's the worst that could happen?" I replied with a smile. "There's another one of those creatures in the building somewhere?"
2024.06.09 16:12 JudgeLex The Horus Heresy Book 21: Fear to Tead by James Swallow
The Horus Heresy Book 21: Fear to Tread by James Swallow
Good gods, we finally meet the Blood Angels. Was it worth the wait? Well, it's a resounding yes from us. This is a portrait of a legion struggling with secrets and having it used against them. The noble Sanguinius is heartbroken by the Red Thirst and having to deal with his poor mad sons, and this is used against him to pull him into a trap. The discussions with Horus before the Heresy are a good look at who both of them were before all the bitter infighting. This set up heightens the betrayal, as before Horus fell he and Sanguinius were close. Horus realises his pure brother cannot fall to chaos, so sends him away to perish.
“With the whip still coiled about its neck, the Angel dragged the spitting, wounded fiend to the lip of the pit in the middle of the chamber, then lifted it up so he could look it in the face. The daemon cackled through its pain, convulsing as it tried to shake free. ‘I will take your skull yet.’ The primarch’s eyes flashed with a powerful hatred. ‘If you truly do hail from the realm that men once called hell,’ he intoned, ‘when you return there, tell your kindred it was Sanguinius who threw you back.’ With a grunt of effort, the Angel took hold of the beast and shoved it over the spiked edge.
Ka’Bandha’s curses echoed all the way down, before it finally vanished, shrieking, into the warp-flames.”
The Blood Angels are shown here in a completely different light to the other legions we have met so far. They fall to the Red Thirst for quite an extended part of this story so we get berserkers from the Blood Angels before we truly get them from the World Eaters. They slaughter everyone they can get their teeth on and are truly repentant for it at the end of the book, with the Flesh Tearer feeling distraught over what he did to their allies (doesnt stop them from doing it in the future though). Erebus’ plan could have easily worked to bring the Blood Angels to Khorne and you can see why Angron is second choice over the beautiful Hawk Boy.
Synopsis
Before the Heresy, Sanguinius and the Blood Angels have a slight issue. Sometimes, they go crazy and get turned into blood fueled mindless killers. During a campaign against xenos known as the Nephelim, who feed off religious adoration, Horus learns of this Red Thirst and talks with Sanguinius. He is scared, fearing the Emperor will destroy the Blood Angels for this genetic abnormality (something Emperor has done before)....This brings Horus and Sanguinius closer together.
During the Heresy, following a campaign against the Orks, Horus contacts Sanguinuis, talks with him face to face using a psyker and asks him about the Emperor and the Great Crusade. One question later and Horus sends him off to walk into a trap that will destroy the Blood Angels. He claims the Nephelim have returned and the entire Blood Angel legion are required to deal with them.To sweeten the deal, he tells Sanguinius the Nephelim have a machine that can cure the Blood Angels of their affliction.
The Word Bearers and Space Wolves are along for the ride and have secret agendas they plan on completing. The Blood Angels head to the Cignus cluster and find a giant burning eight pointed star and everyone dead. Just being in the vicinity causes a wave of suicides among the mortal crew of their ships. A veil descends around the system, preventing any contact outside the system. The Blood Angels are alone.
A squad is sent to investigate a planet and the mission goes wrong (the pilot goes mad on the way down, they get attacked by the city itself).
Horus summons the Bloodthirster, Ka’Bandha, and tells him to murder Sanguinius, rather than corrupt him, which is Erebus’ plan.
A few survivors are eventually found and tell the Blood Angels about what happened and are attacked by Daemonettes. A Keeper of Secrets emerges on the flagship and tells Sanguinius it is the mastemistress of the planet. Sanguinuis vows to murder it. Sanguinius is told that it seems likely that Horus put them in this trap and almost kills the marine that suggests it. The Space Wolves tell Sanguinius that they are there to deal with the threat of rebellion, in the form of the use of psychic powers by the Librarius. Sanguinius acknowledges the possibility of rebellion and goes to kill the enemy….
Sanguinius fights the Bloodthirster and the fight goes badly. The final blow kills 500 marines at once, knocks out Sanguinius and puts all of the Blood Angels deep into the Red Thirst. The Sanguinary Guard transport Sanguinius back to the flagship and call a full retreat, but the bloodlust is too strong. The legion succumbs to the other Legion genetic defect, The Black Rage, and the dive headfirst into a full on BLOOD ORGY attacking everything.
The Librarians realise they are hamstringing themselves and take part in a psychic process to wake Sanguinuis. He is not happy and destroys the Bloodthirster with perhaps the coolest one liner we have had. But the bloodlust in the legion is too strong and a Blood Angel sacrifices himself to become the Red Angel and save the legion. The veil is removed and the Blood Angels are able to shake themselves off and leave the system (trying not to look at each other or mention why there seems to be a lot less mortal legion serfs on their ships or wiping blood off their mouths). They received word of the Isstvan V massacre and run into an Ultramarine fleet.
In possibly the most satisfying epilogue, Erebus decides to berate Horus for his failure and gets his face cut off. Horus does not care about the will of the Gods, only his own plans.
Review:
This is a brilliant book and brings a lot of ideas into the Heresy that are vital parts of 40k, especially for the Blood Angels. The Red Thirst, The Black Rage, the Sanginor ability to fuse with warp entities, pariahs and the daemons of the Gods are all here and in full display. Slaanesh and Khorne are working together to bring down and corrupt Sanguinius, although you get the feeling that Slaanesh was never going to have him, with the Bloodthirster somehow managing to output the Keeper of Secrets running things in the system. The Blood Angels as a legion are fascinating. The Blood Angels are not perfect but they are trying hard to be good. They display strong genetic defects that should render them removed from conflict by the Emperor. But their noble cause, and angelic primarch ensure they never fall too far into a parody, and instead are haunted knights trying to fight themselves and the enemy for the good of the universe.
We get an interesting look at Chaos in this book. A Slaaneshi psychic is openly working for the Word Bearers, but no one recognises what she truly is and what her power entails. A world is turned into a living weapon and a symbol of the power of chaos. An entire star system is trapped from the rest of the galaxy. The whole population is turned into a fortress of bones.
Whilst it lacks the constant creeping dread of Know No Fear, this is a spectacular book and I can fully understand why the Blood Angels are so many people’s favourites after reading this one. They are the noble angels (and also murderous, barely kept in check butchers ready to go mad at a moment's notice.) The Blood Angels face horrors that drive men mad and manage to survive and carry on.
The ending fully wants you to know what is happening next in the series, so unsurprisingly we are going to have a bunch of short stories next that are completely unrelated to this book…
Score: 9.5/10 - a wonderful look at this mostly ignored legion so far that hits hard and shows how horrific Chaos can be. Full on cosmic horror versus a literal angel and his army of angels. It is glorious stuff. It just lacks the focus and creeping dread that “Know No Fear” had.
Cover: It's a warrior angel fighting a devil as the sky explodes around them. If this was an Iron Maiden album cover, it could not be any more metal.
Heresy Watch:
How close were the Blood Angels to falling? If not for the World Eaters they may have been something for Khorne to pursue. Erebus is no longer the favoured of the Gods, having accomplished his purpose, Horus no longer needs to listen to him and demonstrates it in quite a clear way. Horus is concerned that Sanginius would be a better leader than he is, if he falls to Chaos.
Legion Watch/Number of Book(s):
Dark Angels: 5
: 2
Emperor’s Children: 8
Iron Warriors: 5
White Scars: 3
Space Wolves: 5
Imperial Fists: 8
Night Lords: 4
Blood Angels: 2
Iron Hands: 4
: 2
World Eaters: 9
Ultramarines: 7
Death Guard: 4
Thousand Sons: 5
Sons of Horus: 9
Word Bearers: 11
Salamanders: 2
Raven Guard: 4
Alpha Legion: 6
The Emperor: 7
We finally have Blood Angels! They were worth the wait. They are now on a par with the Salamanders.
Tropes Watch:
Are we the baddies?: 36 The Flesh Tearer. That is not a nickname a “good guy” gets. By the end of the story, he (along with his men) murdered the Space Wolf observers and the legion response seems to just be to sweep it under the carpet. The whole “drinking the blood of my enemies” feels a bit ‘not very good guys’. Sanguinius talks to Horus through a naked Slaaneshi psyker, learns this is not the Emperor’s technology and basically shrugs and is fine with it.
It's definitely not gay: 20 “The ornate doors of the primarch’s quarters opened and Raldoron stepped through, his eyes falling on Sanguinius before anything else. His liege lord wore his duty armour, gold and white platinum with a bronze mail cloak that lay draped over his folded wings. It was not as ornate as the high artificer armour he would wear into combat, but still it seemed barely able to contain the full radiance of the primarch. Raldoron had once heard one of the remembrancers say that Sanguinius shone like a star carved into the shape of a man, and he could not fault that description.” The Blood Angels really love their father. Everyone who sees him seems quite overcome by his magnificence.
How not to parent 101: 25 Sanguinius prepares to attack one of his sons for daring to claim Horus lied to them, whilst they are stuck in a trap that Horus sent them into.
Erebus!!!: 19 Oh we get a proper appearance for Erebus and some actual pleasure as he decides he can berate the Warmaster following the failure of his plan. The slimy little scumbag decides he doesn't need to be nice anymore, shouts at a Chaos powered Horus and gets his face ripped off for it. Couldn't have happened to a more deserving guy. There is a scene where Erebus goes and sees Fabius Bile and you legitimately feel bad that Space Megele has to deal with him…. Berus the High Warden earns an honorary Erebus award, being an absolute git throughout the story until his noble sacrifice (read: falling off a Land Raider to kill daemonettes).
Does this remind you of anything?: 37 Chaos corruption led to the creation of concentration camps. Possibly the most grim dark thing so far. I cannot help but feel that a lot of Khorne apologists will blame it on Slaanesh and “Khorne only wants honourable kills” but also the Blood Father “cares not from where the blood flows”. Comment below which chaos god you blame for the camps. When Sanguinius kicks the Bloodthirster over the edge does he is either channelling Gandalf or Leonedius and we are not sure which….
Idiot Ball: 24 Horus just happened to come across a planet with technology to cure a super specific legion genetic defect. How exactly did the xeno’s manage to cure this? And the planet is really far away from everyone? A likely story. Only fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
submitted by JudgeLex to 40kLore [link] [comments]
Good gods, we finally meet the Blood Angels. Was it worth the wait? Well, it's a resounding yes from us. This is a portrait of a legion struggling with secrets and having it used against them. The noble Sanguinius is heartbroken by the Red Thirst and having to deal with his poor mad sons, and this is used against him to pull him into a trap. The discussions with Horus before the Heresy are a good look at who both of them were before all the bitter infighting. This set up heightens the betrayal, as before Horus fell he and Sanguinius were close. Horus realises his pure brother cannot fall to chaos, so sends him away to perish.
“With the whip still coiled about its neck, the Angel dragged the spitting, wounded fiend to the lip of the pit in the middle of the chamber, then lifted it up so he could look it in the face. The daemon cackled through its pain, convulsing as it tried to shake free. ‘I will take your skull yet.’ The primarch’s eyes flashed with a powerful hatred. ‘If you truly do hail from the realm that men once called hell,’ he intoned, ‘when you return there, tell your kindred it was Sanguinius who threw you back.’ With a grunt of effort, the Angel took hold of the beast and shoved it over the spiked edge.
Ka’Bandha’s curses echoed all the way down, before it finally vanished, shrieking, into the warp-flames.”
The Blood Angels are shown here in a completely different light to the other legions we have met so far. They fall to the Red Thirst for quite an extended part of this story so we get berserkers from the Blood Angels before we truly get them from the World Eaters. They slaughter everyone they can get their teeth on and are truly repentant for it at the end of the book, with the Flesh Tearer feeling distraught over what he did to their allies (doesnt stop them from doing it in the future though). Erebus’ plan could have easily worked to bring the Blood Angels to Khorne and you can see why Angron is second choice over the beautiful Hawk Boy.
Synopsis
Before the Heresy, Sanguinius and the Blood Angels have a slight issue. Sometimes, they go crazy and get turned into blood fueled mindless killers. During a campaign against xenos known as the Nephelim, who feed off religious adoration, Horus learns of this Red Thirst and talks with Sanguinius. He is scared, fearing the Emperor will destroy the Blood Angels for this genetic abnormality (something Emperor has done before)....This brings Horus and Sanguinius closer together.
During the Heresy, following a campaign against the Orks, Horus contacts Sanguinuis, talks with him face to face using a psyker and asks him about the Emperor and the Great Crusade. One question later and Horus sends him off to walk into a trap that will destroy the Blood Angels. He claims the Nephelim have returned and the entire Blood Angel legion are required to deal with them.To sweeten the deal, he tells Sanguinius the Nephelim have a machine that can cure the Blood Angels of their affliction.
The Word Bearers and Space Wolves are along for the ride and have secret agendas they plan on completing. The Blood Angels head to the Cignus cluster and find a giant burning eight pointed star and everyone dead. Just being in the vicinity causes a wave of suicides among the mortal crew of their ships. A veil descends around the system, preventing any contact outside the system. The Blood Angels are alone.
A squad is sent to investigate a planet and the mission goes wrong (the pilot goes mad on the way down, they get attacked by the city itself).
Horus summons the Bloodthirster, Ka’Bandha, and tells him to murder Sanguinius, rather than corrupt him, which is Erebus’ plan.
A few survivors are eventually found and tell the Blood Angels about what happened and are attacked by Daemonettes. A Keeper of Secrets emerges on the flagship and tells Sanguinius it is the mastemistress of the planet. Sanguinuis vows to murder it. Sanguinius is told that it seems likely that Horus put them in this trap and almost kills the marine that suggests it. The Space Wolves tell Sanguinius that they are there to deal with the threat of rebellion, in the form of the use of psychic powers by the Librarius. Sanguinius acknowledges the possibility of rebellion and goes to kill the enemy….
Sanguinius fights the Bloodthirster and the fight goes badly. The final blow kills 500 marines at once, knocks out Sanguinius and puts all of the Blood Angels deep into the Red Thirst. The Sanguinary Guard transport Sanguinius back to the flagship and call a full retreat, but the bloodlust is too strong. The legion succumbs to the other Legion genetic defect, The Black Rage, and the dive headfirst into a full on BLOOD ORGY attacking everything.
The Librarians realise they are hamstringing themselves and take part in a psychic process to wake Sanguinuis. He is not happy and destroys the Bloodthirster with perhaps the coolest one liner we have had. But the bloodlust in the legion is too strong and a Blood Angel sacrifices himself to become the Red Angel and save the legion. The veil is removed and the Blood Angels are able to shake themselves off and leave the system (trying not to look at each other or mention why there seems to be a lot less mortal legion serfs on their ships or wiping blood off their mouths). They received word of the Isstvan V massacre and run into an Ultramarine fleet.
In possibly the most satisfying epilogue, Erebus decides to berate Horus for his failure and gets his face cut off. Horus does not care about the will of the Gods, only his own plans.
Review:
This is a brilliant book and brings a lot of ideas into the Heresy that are vital parts of 40k, especially for the Blood Angels. The Red Thirst, The Black Rage, the Sanginor ability to fuse with warp entities, pariahs and the daemons of the Gods are all here and in full display. Slaanesh and Khorne are working together to bring down and corrupt Sanguinius, although you get the feeling that Slaanesh was never going to have him, with the Bloodthirster somehow managing to output the Keeper of Secrets running things in the system. The Blood Angels as a legion are fascinating. The Blood Angels are not perfect but they are trying hard to be good. They display strong genetic defects that should render them removed from conflict by the Emperor. But their noble cause, and angelic primarch ensure they never fall too far into a parody, and instead are haunted knights trying to fight themselves and the enemy for the good of the universe.
We get an interesting look at Chaos in this book. A Slaaneshi psychic is openly working for the Word Bearers, but no one recognises what she truly is and what her power entails. A world is turned into a living weapon and a symbol of the power of chaos. An entire star system is trapped from the rest of the galaxy. The whole population is turned into a fortress of bones.
Whilst it lacks the constant creeping dread of Know No Fear, this is a spectacular book and I can fully understand why the Blood Angels are so many people’s favourites after reading this one. They are the noble angels (and also murderous, barely kept in check butchers ready to go mad at a moment's notice.) The Blood Angels face horrors that drive men mad and manage to survive and carry on.
The ending fully wants you to know what is happening next in the series, so unsurprisingly we are going to have a bunch of short stories next that are completely unrelated to this book…
Score: 9.5/10 - a wonderful look at this mostly ignored legion so far that hits hard and shows how horrific Chaos can be. Full on cosmic horror versus a literal angel and his army of angels. It is glorious stuff. It just lacks the focus and creeping dread that “Know No Fear” had.
Cover: It's a warrior angel fighting a devil as the sky explodes around them. If this was an Iron Maiden album cover, it could not be any more metal.
Heresy Watch:
How close were the Blood Angels to falling? If not for the World Eaters they may have been something for Khorne to pursue. Erebus is no longer the favoured of the Gods, having accomplished his purpose, Horus no longer needs to listen to him and demonstrates it in quite a clear way. Horus is concerned that Sanginius would be a better leader than he is, if he falls to Chaos.
Legion Watch/Number of Book(s):
Dark Angels: 5
Emperor’s Children: 8
Iron Warriors: 5
White Scars: 3
Space Wolves: 5
Imperial Fists: 8
Night Lords: 4
Blood Angels: 2
Iron Hands: 4
World Eaters: 9
Ultramarines: 7
Death Guard: 4
Thousand Sons: 5
Sons of Horus: 9
Word Bearers: 11
Salamanders: 2
Raven Guard: 4
Alpha Legion: 6
The Emperor: 7
We finally have Blood Angels! They were worth the wait. They are now on a par with the Salamanders.
Tropes Watch:
Are we the baddies?: 36 The Flesh Tearer. That is not a nickname a “good guy” gets. By the end of the story, he (along with his men) murdered the Space Wolf observers and the legion response seems to just be to sweep it under the carpet. The whole “drinking the blood of my enemies” feels a bit ‘not very good guys’. Sanguinius talks to Horus through a naked Slaaneshi psyker, learns this is not the Emperor’s technology and basically shrugs and is fine with it.
It's definitely not gay: 20 “The ornate doors of the primarch’s quarters opened and Raldoron stepped through, his eyes falling on Sanguinius before anything else. His liege lord wore his duty armour, gold and white platinum with a bronze mail cloak that lay draped over his folded wings. It was not as ornate as the high artificer armour he would wear into combat, but still it seemed barely able to contain the full radiance of the primarch. Raldoron had once heard one of the remembrancers say that Sanguinius shone like a star carved into the shape of a man, and he could not fault that description.” The Blood Angels really love their father. Everyone who sees him seems quite overcome by his magnificence.
How not to parent 101: 25 Sanguinius prepares to attack one of his sons for daring to claim Horus lied to them, whilst they are stuck in a trap that Horus sent them into.
Erebus!!!: 19 Oh we get a proper appearance for Erebus and some actual pleasure as he decides he can berate the Warmaster following the failure of his plan. The slimy little scumbag decides he doesn't need to be nice anymore, shouts at a Chaos powered Horus and gets his face ripped off for it. Couldn't have happened to a more deserving guy. There is a scene where Erebus goes and sees Fabius Bile and you legitimately feel bad that Space Megele has to deal with him…. Berus the High Warden earns an honorary Erebus award, being an absolute git throughout the story until his noble sacrifice (read: falling off a Land Raider to kill daemonettes).
Does this remind you of anything?: 37 Chaos corruption led to the creation of concentration camps. Possibly the most grim dark thing so far. I cannot help but feel that a lot of Khorne apologists will blame it on Slaanesh and “Khorne only wants honourable kills” but also the Blood Father “cares not from where the blood flows”. Comment below which chaos god you blame for the camps. When Sanguinius kicks the Bloodthirster over the edge does he is either channelling Gandalf or Leonedius and we are not sure which….
Idiot Ball: 24 Horus just happened to come across a planet with technology to cure a super specific legion genetic defect. How exactly did the xeno’s manage to cure this? And the planet is really far away from everyone? A likely story. Only fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
2024.06.09 16:09 Craftex101 (Ragnarok: Pandora) Chapter 60: Imperial Hubris
Hartmann flies towards Yu Huang on his new waterbound Hydra. As the plane begins to fire Yu Huang holds out his hand, the Hydra getting in the way again, blocking the bullets with one of its heads, another head snapping towards the plane, Hartmann going up and above it. “Damn! This new dragon would DIE for you huh, Herr Huang!?”
“It will do no such thing, Hartmann. I would not allow such behavior from my dragons! The hydra’s regeneration allowed it to live so long as a head remains!” He calls out, Hartmann laughing happily.
“Right. So I gotta take out ALL the heads at once!? Kinderspiel!” He calls out as he spins around to approach Yu Huang again.
Yu Huang scoffs, stamping down his staff. “Hmpf. Child’s play you say? Doubtful any child should find themselves in the midst of these battles! Unless you consider yourself a mere CHILD!”
Izanagi crosses his arms with a smirk. “You tell him, old friend! Bwahaha!”
Ao Kuang and his brothers all facepalm a little. “Our father needs to work on his banter huh, Tsukuyomi?”
Tsukuyomi looks back briefly. “Oh um… I guess so? It is not… what I admire him for.”
"Right… us neither.”
Yu Huang spins his spear back, thrusting forward and one of the hydra’s heads mimic his movement and FIRES off its head from the socket, Hartmann’s eyes widening as he does a full flip midair to fly over it.
Hartmann’s gaze suddenly drops a little, darkening. “I suppose we should stop using the baby guns then! Let’s switch to something more ADULT!” Hartmann approaches once again, confidently letting go of the control stick and suddenly he flips upside down in his glass bubble cockpit. On the opposite side is another two handles, which he grabs hold of and shoves them forward, thumbs on the buttons at the end of each. Two plates move aside on the bottom of the plane and two large gun-barrels shoot out, pointing in the direction Hartmann is looking. He starts firing, the heavy rattling of bullet-casings plunging off the sides of the jet and heavy bullets smashing against Yu Huang’s hydra, forcing him to dodge rather than merely block it with the heads as they are torn apart by these bullets, the head snaking back and forth in the water, the hydra’s underwater body darting backwards. “That’s right! Kinderspiel! Limiting yourself to only TWO planes of movement, Herr Huang!? Not a smart idea when you’re against the greatest three dimensional fighter in ALL THE HEAVENS! If this is your best idea then I will NEVER be shot down!” He laughs with a strained smirk. “Never…”
Yu Huang blocks a bullet, deflecting it to the side with his spear. “Such arrogance! And yet you too have limited your movement no!? Without your hands on that stick in your machine you move in ONE dimension! Straight ahead!” He pushes his palm forward, two hydra heads shooting forth from the water aimed directly at the jet.
Hartmann doesn’t have time to readjust his seat, but he smirks. “And here I thought you and I had an understanding, Herr Huang!” He suddenly kicks his foot past the yoke before pulling and catching it on his foot, yanking himself into the air, blood rushing to his head but he merely shakes it off. “Woooooohoooo!”
Yu Huang sees the jet twirling in the sky and he pauses. “To think once upon a time… I too believed myself untouchable… How foolish I was.”
-Ancient Past-
Yu Huang raises the gavel. “This meeting is hereby adjourned!”
“But we still have the matter of what to do with Wukong?” A god chimes in as Yu Huang slams down his gavel.
“I have no care for that monkey. Do not waste my time, you imbecile or I will show you why I rule this council,” He holds up his hand and the green energy flows up his wrist, forming little scales around his fingers.
The god flinches and swiftly rushes off. “Nevermind! My apologies!”
Yu Huang stands from his seat. “Hmpf. Wukong,” He mutters to himself before stepping off the throne onto the head of a few dragons acting as his staircase, the beasts whimpering as he does. “Silence. Follow,” He walks out of the council jumping into a saddled dragon which quickly flies him off towards the Jade Palace. “Before this. We go east,” He mutters with a smirk. The dragon roars and shoots towards the west, landing at a large temple, Ao Kuang standing outside, next to a large red pillar with golden rims.
“Father?! I-I did not expect to see you here!” Ao Kuang quickly kneels, as Yu Huang strides past him.
“You bow too late, dragon. A king you may be, but that is nothing to an emperor. I expect you to be kneeling BEFORE I arrive,” He says and Ao Kuang feels a bead of sweat dripping from his forehead. He upset his father… This is not good. “I am feeling charitable at the moment. So I will forgive it this once. So tell me. How is the caged ape?” He smirks and Ao Kuang stands and nods.
“The caged monkey! Yes of course! Um… I do not mean to upset you further, father… but…” As they walk in they hear banging of flesh on metal, wet bangs… as they walk in Wukong is standing in a large golden bird-cage elevated above a massive hole in the ground, water flowing into it from all sides. Wukong is HAMMERING his fists at the bars, blood dripping from his fists and feet as he goes, the golden pristine pillars making up the bars all colored red with blood. His eyes are wild and focused on the pillars. He has not even seen Yu Huang enter. “But the monkey has not stopped striking the cage since his imprisonment 1000 years ago.”
Yu Huang’s eyes go slightly wide. “Not for a moment, you say? Hmpf. Foolish mortal. MONKEY!” He calls out, Wukong’s eyes flickering and he stops with one final punch, shaking the cage. “How are you enjoying your endless life in Heaven?”
“Fuck you…” Wukong says, springing towards the closest point to Yu Huang. “Come in here you bastard! I’ll kill you! I’ll kill you and ALL your BASTARD kids for what you did! Show you what it’s like!”
Yu Huang laughs. “Oh please,” He raises his hand and with a single palm strike a dragon-head blasts forth from his palm, striking Wukong and knocking him to the other side of the giant cage he is in. “You would stand no chance. I am not some mortal being. I am The Jade Emperor. Do not forget this,” He smirks and turns to leave. “I have seen what I need to see. I am going home.”
Ao Kuang bows his head. “It was wonderful to be graced with your presence, father,”
“You are most welcome,” Yu Huang steps onto his staddled dragon once again and it flies off. “Foolish monkey. Attempting to argue and challenge a god such as myself? Preposterous.”
And so… time passed. Every 1000 years or so Yu Huang would visit the temple to check in on Wukong. Each interaction between the two followed this same pattern. Yu Huang was quite pleased with his work. The disrespect Wukong had shown him, making him pleased to see the monkey getting his comeuppance.
Yu Huang is sitting in the Jade Palace, looking out into his garden seeing his mighty dragons, chained to the ground to ensure they do not fly away. Those darn beasts do not listen to authority! Yet undoubtedly the dragon is the greatest symbol of power in all of Heaven! He suddenly hears a loud and disruptive CRASH outside. “What is the meaning of this!?” He says waving his hand. “Guards. Deal with whatever that was,” However before any of the angel guards can even leave another angel comes BURSTING through the door.
“Lord! Lord Yu Huang! It’s… IT’S WUKONG!” He yells, Yu Huang’s eyes going wide as he stands.
“Wukong!?” He swiftly makes his way down to the bottom level. “That monkey escaped?! What trickery he must have used. I shall punish Ao Kuang DEARLY for this!” He says before the front door BLASTS open and an angel comes tumbling in, Yu Huang stopping him with a flick of his palm, causing a dragon tail to swipe the angel aside. He furrows a brow as Wukong comes walking through the door, an aura of DEATHLY killing intent following him like a thick black smog. “So… you have escaped. I am quite impressed. And what will you do now?” He says smirking confidently. Wukong tosses something he’s holding above his head into the room. Yu Huang hears four grunts of pain seeing the Four Dragon Kings writhing on the floor. “Ao Kuang! Stand and get your prisoner under control. This is ridiculous.”
Ao Kuang pants, bleeding from his head and struggling to move. “I’m sorry father… I do not know… how this happened. He’s… too strong… he took the Pillar somehow. Ruyi Jingu Bang. He simply… picked it up. I have never seen anything like it.”
Yu Huang scoffs. “You expect me to deal with this myself then? How disappointed I am in you.”
“Sorry Father…”
Yu Huang looks up towards Wukong. “Tell me, monkey. What purpose have you brought these four to my doorstep? Simply to prove yourself worthy to fight me?”
Wukong slams his staff down. “I’m gonna kill these sons of yours in front of you. And then you. Let’s see how YOU like it when your family dies in front of your eyes!” He raises it and holds it to Ao Kuang’s head. “Simply letting go of this and his head is crushed to a paste.”
Yu Huang raises an eyebrow. “My sons? These are not my sons. These are my servants. The guards for my temples. You believe them to be irreplaceable to me? Though I suppose it would be a bother to do so. Very well. I shall allow you to face me,” He takes a stance, the green energy flowing into his palms, forming dragons to float around them ready to blast forward.
Wukong’s eyes widen. “You’re worse than scum… you don’t even care! This guy!” He nudges Ao Kuang. “Was more afraid of you being disappointed in him than he was of ME killing him! What kinda monster are you!?” He shoves the four dragon kings aside.
Yu Huang scoffs. “Insolent child! Allow me to show you the strength of Heaven’s mightiest god!” He strikes forward one of the dragons he created, shooting forward only for him to suddenly find Wukong’s hand wrapped over his face.
“This one is for Zhu, my best friend. The person who stood beside me all my life and helped me through countless tough decisions.” Yu Huang is BLASTED through the back wall of his palace, into the dragon-filled courtyard.
“Ngh!?” Yu Huang recovers, with a wave of his hand a dragon head forming under his feet to gently set him on the ground. “You caught me off-guard with that speed. I am impre-” He is forced to lean himself over backwards as Ruyi Jingu Bang SHOOTS forward out of the hole in the wall, Wukong suddenly above him, standing on the staff.
“This one is for Bai, the love of my life, the only woman I will ever love,” He strikes down, hammering Yu Huang into the ground hard enough to dislodge the pillars holding down his dragons who all scatter into the sky. Yu Huang claps, sending a pulse of energy out around him swirling with dragonic murals within the shield.
“So you are a little stronger than I care to admit! You are going to BEG me for mercy!” He says before suddenly Wukong is standing in front of his shield.
“This one’s for the chief, the man who took care of me, despite my faults, who was kind to me when I was unworthy of his kindness,” He kicks forward the shield shattering like glass, Yu Huang feeling his lunch coming up as he’s struck in the stomach, coughing up blood and vomit before he goes flying into the sky. As he reaches the pinnacle he feels Wukong’s hand once again grabbing him. He’s so fast! What is going on!? “And this is for my kids. Luohou, Yuebei and Jidu. Who did no harm to you or anyone else, merely teased one another as siblings do,” Wukong’s voice is practically lifeless as they fall towards the palace, Wukong HURLING Yu Huang downward, crashing through floor after floor after floor until he once more strikes the ground floor where their ‘fight’ started.
“Kah!” Yu Huang looks up seeing Wukong hurling his staff down as well, and it grows. Yu Huang is trembling in every bone. He cannot defeat this mere mortal. This MONKEY!? Where was this arrogance of his coming from? Supreme power? Birthright? How could all of it measure up to NOTHING? There was no divine pride left. A mere mortal, whom he had treated as less than dirt, was able to simply waltz into HIS palace, dismantle HIS guards and crush HIM effortlessly!?
“And THIS! Is for the rest of the Anima! A people plagued by war, but one that could have become something greater given time! The millions of lives YOU ENDED with your cruelty!” MONKEY KING’S GOD-CRUSHING…!! However, suddenly Yu Huang sees shadows looming over him. The Four Dragon Kings.
“Do not worry father! We will protect you!” Wukong’s eyes widen as he kicks the staff down, shrinking it back to normal size and it pierces through the floor, embedding itself without touching any of the five gods.
He lands in front of them rather nimbly. “What are you protecting this ASSHOLE for!? He treats you like servants! He doesn’t care about you!”
“He is all we have!” They all four hold their arms out. “We were worthless before he showed us a path. He may treat us as his servants. But to us he’s our FATHER! He gave us purpose. He showed us kindness when no other would! Killing him would do NOTHING for you, except… continue this cycle of revenge!” Ao Kuang calls out and Wukong grits his teeth, raising his hand to strike the weak and bruised Dragon Kings aside.
“Seeing your father struck down in front of you, huh? Revenge… violence,” He finds a string tugging at his heart, while Yu Huang looks at him, his eyes practically shaking and unable to focus. Wukong picks his staff out of the ground, stomping up to Yu Huang, picking him up by the throat, Yu Huang desperately firing a shot of jade energy at Wukong’s head, striking him dead on yet he didn’t even react. What is this ridiculous strength!? “What’s wrong, Yu Huang? Scared of a monkey? Don’t be. You got some good kids. But understand this. I am not forgiving you. I’m showing you something I don’t think you gods have ever heard of. Mercy. You gods have tormented me for long enough. It’s MY turn to torment you guys a little… by living a free life,” He tosses Yu Huang into the room, stretching as he walks out.
Ao Kuang and the other three kneel down to Yu Huang. “Father! Are you alright!? W-we apologize for not being able t-”
“No… I am the one who is sorry.”
“H-huh?!” They all look at one another in confusion.
“I have treated you poorly… What have I been doing? My arrogance, founded on my magical strength. Tormenting you, Wukong, the dragons. Oh the dragons!” He stands and looks to the skies seeing the dragons burning their saddles and muzzles from one another’s back, soaring free. “I truly… truly am not worthy of any of this…”
-Present day-
“You!? You defeated The Jade Emperor so effortlessly!? Incredible!” Sakai exclaims as Wukong looks at the screens with a light scoff.
“Yeah I did. Don’t think it’d be that easy anymore though.”
Pandora manages to strain herself to sit and look towards Wukong. “Ngh… what… do you mean, Wukong? You are… incredibly powerful still, right?”
Wukong nods. “I am, no doubt about that. But since I humbled that old bastard he bettered himself in every conceivable way. Even gave up his seat at the council.”
“So he’s… good now? Gah!” Pandora grabs her belly in pain as Hartmann begins to fire again.
“Ha! Fat chance! He still voted for your kind’s destruction and he STILL-” He cuts himself off, gripping his arm tightly from their crossed state, breathing in. “He’s not off the hook at all. I hate him moreso than any other. But with his newfound knowledge and understanding of dragons, the source of his power, his strength increased exponentially.”
Everyone’s eyes widen. “So simply that mental switch… and he’s THAT much more powerful?”
“‘fraid so, Pandora. That bastard’s one of the toughest gods in Heaven.”
Hephaestus pushes Pandora back onto her back. “Pandora… do not strain yourself, please!”
Pandora gives a strained laugh. “I’m fine, dad.”
Wukong squints. “I hope this Hartmann finally ends you, Yu Huang.”
Yu Huang smirks. “Truly incredible, Sun Wukong. To feel your animosity this far out…” He strikes the air with his palm again, sending Hydra-heads blasting towards Hartmann, who swiftly swerves aside, the hydra swimming away as fast as it can. “But for the sake of those who hold special places within my once cold heart…” Hartmann approaches again, switching his orientation again to fire his heavy cannons. “IT SHALL BE YOU WHO IS FELLED!” He yells out clapping his hands together the Hydra firing several of its heads towards the plane at once, Hartmann gritting his teeth.
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“It will do no such thing, Hartmann. I would not allow such behavior from my dragons! The hydra’s regeneration allowed it to live so long as a head remains!” He calls out, Hartmann laughing happily.
“Right. So I gotta take out ALL the heads at once!? Kinderspiel!” He calls out as he spins around to approach Yu Huang again.
Yu Huang scoffs, stamping down his staff. “Hmpf. Child’s play you say? Doubtful any child should find themselves in the midst of these battles! Unless you consider yourself a mere CHILD!”
Izanagi crosses his arms with a smirk. “You tell him, old friend! Bwahaha!”
Ao Kuang and his brothers all facepalm a little. “Our father needs to work on his banter huh, Tsukuyomi?”
Tsukuyomi looks back briefly. “Oh um… I guess so? It is not… what I admire him for.”
"Right… us neither.”
Yu Huang spins his spear back, thrusting forward and one of the hydra’s heads mimic his movement and FIRES off its head from the socket, Hartmann’s eyes widening as he does a full flip midair to fly over it.
Hartmann’s gaze suddenly drops a little, darkening. “I suppose we should stop using the baby guns then! Let’s switch to something more ADULT!” Hartmann approaches once again, confidently letting go of the control stick and suddenly he flips upside down in his glass bubble cockpit. On the opposite side is another two handles, which he grabs hold of and shoves them forward, thumbs on the buttons at the end of each. Two plates move aside on the bottom of the plane and two large gun-barrels shoot out, pointing in the direction Hartmann is looking. He starts firing, the heavy rattling of bullet-casings plunging off the sides of the jet and heavy bullets smashing against Yu Huang’s hydra, forcing him to dodge rather than merely block it with the heads as they are torn apart by these bullets, the head snaking back and forth in the water, the hydra’s underwater body darting backwards. “That’s right! Kinderspiel! Limiting yourself to only TWO planes of movement, Herr Huang!? Not a smart idea when you’re against the greatest three dimensional fighter in ALL THE HEAVENS! If this is your best idea then I will NEVER be shot down!” He laughs with a strained smirk. “Never…”
Yu Huang blocks a bullet, deflecting it to the side with his spear. “Such arrogance! And yet you too have limited your movement no!? Without your hands on that stick in your machine you move in ONE dimension! Straight ahead!” He pushes his palm forward, two hydra heads shooting forth from the water aimed directly at the jet.
Hartmann doesn’t have time to readjust his seat, but he smirks. “And here I thought you and I had an understanding, Herr Huang!” He suddenly kicks his foot past the yoke before pulling and catching it on his foot, yanking himself into the air, blood rushing to his head but he merely shakes it off. “Woooooohoooo!”
Yu Huang sees the jet twirling in the sky and he pauses. “To think once upon a time… I too believed myself untouchable… How foolish I was.”
-Ancient Past-
Yu Huang raises the gavel. “This meeting is hereby adjourned!”
“But we still have the matter of what to do with Wukong?” A god chimes in as Yu Huang slams down his gavel.
“I have no care for that monkey. Do not waste my time, you imbecile or I will show you why I rule this council,” He holds up his hand and the green energy flows up his wrist, forming little scales around his fingers.
The god flinches and swiftly rushes off. “Nevermind! My apologies!”
Yu Huang stands from his seat. “Hmpf. Wukong,” He mutters to himself before stepping off the throne onto the head of a few dragons acting as his staircase, the beasts whimpering as he does. “Silence. Follow,” He walks out of the council jumping into a saddled dragon which quickly flies him off towards the Jade Palace. “Before this. We go east,” He mutters with a smirk. The dragon roars and shoots towards the west, landing at a large temple, Ao Kuang standing outside, next to a large red pillar with golden rims.
“Father?! I-I did not expect to see you here!” Ao Kuang quickly kneels, as Yu Huang strides past him.
“You bow too late, dragon. A king you may be, but that is nothing to an emperor. I expect you to be kneeling BEFORE I arrive,” He says and Ao Kuang feels a bead of sweat dripping from his forehead. He upset his father… This is not good. “I am feeling charitable at the moment. So I will forgive it this once. So tell me. How is the caged ape?” He smirks and Ao Kuang stands and nods.
“The caged monkey! Yes of course! Um… I do not mean to upset you further, father… but…” As they walk in they hear banging of flesh on metal, wet bangs… as they walk in Wukong is standing in a large golden bird-cage elevated above a massive hole in the ground, water flowing into it from all sides. Wukong is HAMMERING his fists at the bars, blood dripping from his fists and feet as he goes, the golden pristine pillars making up the bars all colored red with blood. His eyes are wild and focused on the pillars. He has not even seen Yu Huang enter. “But the monkey has not stopped striking the cage since his imprisonment 1000 years ago.”
Yu Huang’s eyes go slightly wide. “Not for a moment, you say? Hmpf. Foolish mortal. MONKEY!” He calls out, Wukong’s eyes flickering and he stops with one final punch, shaking the cage. “How are you enjoying your endless life in Heaven?”
“Fuck you…” Wukong says, springing towards the closest point to Yu Huang. “Come in here you bastard! I’ll kill you! I’ll kill you and ALL your BASTARD kids for what you did! Show you what it’s like!”
Yu Huang laughs. “Oh please,” He raises his hand and with a single palm strike a dragon-head blasts forth from his palm, striking Wukong and knocking him to the other side of the giant cage he is in. “You would stand no chance. I am not some mortal being. I am The Jade Emperor. Do not forget this,” He smirks and turns to leave. “I have seen what I need to see. I am going home.”
Ao Kuang bows his head. “It was wonderful to be graced with your presence, father,”
“You are most welcome,” Yu Huang steps onto his staddled dragon once again and it flies off. “Foolish monkey. Attempting to argue and challenge a god such as myself? Preposterous.”
And so… time passed. Every 1000 years or so Yu Huang would visit the temple to check in on Wukong. Each interaction between the two followed this same pattern. Yu Huang was quite pleased with his work. The disrespect Wukong had shown him, making him pleased to see the monkey getting his comeuppance.
Yu Huang is sitting in the Jade Palace, looking out into his garden seeing his mighty dragons, chained to the ground to ensure they do not fly away. Those darn beasts do not listen to authority! Yet undoubtedly the dragon is the greatest symbol of power in all of Heaven! He suddenly hears a loud and disruptive CRASH outside. “What is the meaning of this!?” He says waving his hand. “Guards. Deal with whatever that was,” However before any of the angel guards can even leave another angel comes BURSTING through the door.
“Lord! Lord Yu Huang! It’s… IT’S WUKONG!” He yells, Yu Huang’s eyes going wide as he stands.
“Wukong!?” He swiftly makes his way down to the bottom level. “That monkey escaped?! What trickery he must have used. I shall punish Ao Kuang DEARLY for this!” He says before the front door BLASTS open and an angel comes tumbling in, Yu Huang stopping him with a flick of his palm, causing a dragon tail to swipe the angel aside. He furrows a brow as Wukong comes walking through the door, an aura of DEATHLY killing intent following him like a thick black smog. “So… you have escaped. I am quite impressed. And what will you do now?” He says smirking confidently. Wukong tosses something he’s holding above his head into the room. Yu Huang hears four grunts of pain seeing the Four Dragon Kings writhing on the floor. “Ao Kuang! Stand and get your prisoner under control. This is ridiculous.”
Ao Kuang pants, bleeding from his head and struggling to move. “I’m sorry father… I do not know… how this happened. He’s… too strong… he took the Pillar somehow. Ruyi Jingu Bang. He simply… picked it up. I have never seen anything like it.”
Yu Huang scoffs. “You expect me to deal with this myself then? How disappointed I am in you.”
“Sorry Father…”
Yu Huang looks up towards Wukong. “Tell me, monkey. What purpose have you brought these four to my doorstep? Simply to prove yourself worthy to fight me?”
Wukong slams his staff down. “I’m gonna kill these sons of yours in front of you. And then you. Let’s see how YOU like it when your family dies in front of your eyes!” He raises it and holds it to Ao Kuang’s head. “Simply letting go of this and his head is crushed to a paste.”
Yu Huang raises an eyebrow. “My sons? These are not my sons. These are my servants. The guards for my temples. You believe them to be irreplaceable to me? Though I suppose it would be a bother to do so. Very well. I shall allow you to face me,” He takes a stance, the green energy flowing into his palms, forming dragons to float around them ready to blast forward.
Wukong’s eyes widen. “You’re worse than scum… you don’t even care! This guy!” He nudges Ao Kuang. “Was more afraid of you being disappointed in him than he was of ME killing him! What kinda monster are you!?” He shoves the four dragon kings aside.
Yu Huang scoffs. “Insolent child! Allow me to show you the strength of Heaven’s mightiest god!” He strikes forward one of the dragons he created, shooting forward only for him to suddenly find Wukong’s hand wrapped over his face.
“This one is for Zhu, my best friend. The person who stood beside me all my life and helped me through countless tough decisions.” Yu Huang is BLASTED through the back wall of his palace, into the dragon-filled courtyard.
“Ngh!?” Yu Huang recovers, with a wave of his hand a dragon head forming under his feet to gently set him on the ground. “You caught me off-guard with that speed. I am impre-” He is forced to lean himself over backwards as Ruyi Jingu Bang SHOOTS forward out of the hole in the wall, Wukong suddenly above him, standing on the staff.
“This one is for Bai, the love of my life, the only woman I will ever love,” He strikes down, hammering Yu Huang into the ground hard enough to dislodge the pillars holding down his dragons who all scatter into the sky. Yu Huang claps, sending a pulse of energy out around him swirling with dragonic murals within the shield.
“So you are a little stronger than I care to admit! You are going to BEG me for mercy!” He says before suddenly Wukong is standing in front of his shield.
“This one’s for the chief, the man who took care of me, despite my faults, who was kind to me when I was unworthy of his kindness,” He kicks forward the shield shattering like glass, Yu Huang feeling his lunch coming up as he’s struck in the stomach, coughing up blood and vomit before he goes flying into the sky. As he reaches the pinnacle he feels Wukong’s hand once again grabbing him. He’s so fast! What is going on!? “And this is for my kids. Luohou, Yuebei and Jidu. Who did no harm to you or anyone else, merely teased one another as siblings do,” Wukong’s voice is practically lifeless as they fall towards the palace, Wukong HURLING Yu Huang downward, crashing through floor after floor after floor until he once more strikes the ground floor where their ‘fight’ started.
“Kah!” Yu Huang looks up seeing Wukong hurling his staff down as well, and it grows. Yu Huang is trembling in every bone. He cannot defeat this mere mortal. This MONKEY!? Where was this arrogance of his coming from? Supreme power? Birthright? How could all of it measure up to NOTHING? There was no divine pride left. A mere mortal, whom he had treated as less than dirt, was able to simply waltz into HIS palace, dismantle HIS guards and crush HIM effortlessly!?
“And THIS! Is for the rest of the Anima! A people plagued by war, but one that could have become something greater given time! The millions of lives YOU ENDED with your cruelty!” MONKEY KING’S GOD-CRUSHING…!! However, suddenly Yu Huang sees shadows looming over him. The Four Dragon Kings.
“Do not worry father! We will protect you!” Wukong’s eyes widen as he kicks the staff down, shrinking it back to normal size and it pierces through the floor, embedding itself without touching any of the five gods.
He lands in front of them rather nimbly. “What are you protecting this ASSHOLE for!? He treats you like servants! He doesn’t care about you!”
“He is all we have!” They all four hold their arms out. “We were worthless before he showed us a path. He may treat us as his servants. But to us he’s our FATHER! He gave us purpose. He showed us kindness when no other would! Killing him would do NOTHING for you, except… continue this cycle of revenge!” Ao Kuang calls out and Wukong grits his teeth, raising his hand to strike the weak and bruised Dragon Kings aside.
“Seeing your father struck down in front of you, huh? Revenge… violence,” He finds a string tugging at his heart, while Yu Huang looks at him, his eyes practically shaking and unable to focus. Wukong picks his staff out of the ground, stomping up to Yu Huang, picking him up by the throat, Yu Huang desperately firing a shot of jade energy at Wukong’s head, striking him dead on yet he didn’t even react. What is this ridiculous strength!? “What’s wrong, Yu Huang? Scared of a monkey? Don’t be. You got some good kids. But understand this. I am not forgiving you. I’m showing you something I don’t think you gods have ever heard of. Mercy. You gods have tormented me for long enough. It’s MY turn to torment you guys a little… by living a free life,” He tosses Yu Huang into the room, stretching as he walks out.
Ao Kuang and the other three kneel down to Yu Huang. “Father! Are you alright!? W-we apologize for not being able t-”
“No… I am the one who is sorry.”
“H-huh?!” They all look at one another in confusion.
“I have treated you poorly… What have I been doing? My arrogance, founded on my magical strength. Tormenting you, Wukong, the dragons. Oh the dragons!” He stands and looks to the skies seeing the dragons burning their saddles and muzzles from one another’s back, soaring free. “I truly… truly am not worthy of any of this…”
-Present day-
“You!? You defeated The Jade Emperor so effortlessly!? Incredible!” Sakai exclaims as Wukong looks at the screens with a light scoff.
“Yeah I did. Don’t think it’d be that easy anymore though.”
Pandora manages to strain herself to sit and look towards Wukong. “Ngh… what… do you mean, Wukong? You are… incredibly powerful still, right?”
Wukong nods. “I am, no doubt about that. But since I humbled that old bastard he bettered himself in every conceivable way. Even gave up his seat at the council.”
“So he’s… good now? Gah!” Pandora grabs her belly in pain as Hartmann begins to fire again.
“Ha! Fat chance! He still voted for your kind’s destruction and he STILL-” He cuts himself off, gripping his arm tightly from their crossed state, breathing in. “He’s not off the hook at all. I hate him moreso than any other. But with his newfound knowledge and understanding of dragons, the source of his power, his strength increased exponentially.”
Everyone’s eyes widen. “So simply that mental switch… and he’s THAT much more powerful?”
“‘fraid so, Pandora. That bastard’s one of the toughest gods in Heaven.”
Hephaestus pushes Pandora back onto her back. “Pandora… do not strain yourself, please!”
Pandora gives a strained laugh. “I’m fine, dad.”
Wukong squints. “I hope this Hartmann finally ends you, Yu Huang.”
Yu Huang smirks. “Truly incredible, Sun Wukong. To feel your animosity this far out…” He strikes the air with his palm again, sending Hydra-heads blasting towards Hartmann, who swiftly swerves aside, the hydra swimming away as fast as it can. “But for the sake of those who hold special places within my once cold heart…” Hartmann approaches again, switching his orientation again to fire his heavy cannons. “IT SHALL BE YOU WHO IS FELLED!” He yells out clapping his hands together the Hydra firing several of its heads towards the plane at once, Hartmann gritting his teeth.
2024.06.09 16:00 BrodogIsMyName Frontier Fantasy - Chap 42
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WaveOfWire Edits :D
- - - - -
Harrison’s vision was still foggy from waking up, several blinks failing to clear the tears from his drawn-out yawn. He just escaped the encompassing embrace of his four-armed guardian, leaving their shared bed for the bathroom, where he would have to say goodbye to his beard. If he was going to travel out of the settlement, a proper seal on his gas mask was a must.
It was a shame. The slow buildup of the hair over the last month or so was a representation of his growth in a way, building up alongside his experiences in this hellhole, be they life-threatening or informative. It was almost like wiping the slate clean, even if cutting some chin scruff didn’t really change anything at all—he’d never be able to forget anything he had seen here for as long as he lived.
And there was no telling how long that’d be.
The engineer sighed, splashing the lukewarm barracks water into his face from one of the many wall-attached sinks, allowing him to fully open his eyes and size up the damage done to his favorite black blood-and-sweat-stained t-shirt. It always stayed in good condition with washing and fabricator repairs, but somehow Shar’s talons always found a way to make small holes in it. She wasn’t trying to, but with the way she fully wrapped her arms around him, the tips of her sharp fingers sometimes ended up poking into the fabric and causing some cuts.
It was such a small issue that he never considered bringing it up to her. Plus, she’d probably do her whole guilty talon-tapping thing with puppy eyes and all… He shook his head, letting the stray beads of water on his face drip into the sink.
His palm ran across his beard while his other hand reached for the razor. There wasn’t any shaving cream or the like, but he’d make do. At least he had one of the proper tools for the job. He went into the task, the blade driving through his scruff, slopping off wide areas of his hair from jaw to chin for a few seconds before it was interrupted.
A short ‘woosh’ of the entrance caught his attention.
“Aww, you’re shavin’ it off?” Tracy commented dejectedly through a yawn, the lazy drawl reinforcing the fact that she just woke up. “Th’ beard was sorta growin’ on me.”
He eyed her through the mirror, his voice coming out in a dull tone. “Yeah. I feel the same.”
She squinted under the bright bathroom lights, rubbing an eye with her wrist as she walked up to the sink beside him and started her own morning routine. “Mmm… Womp womp. Why though?”
“Need it to get a gas mask seal,” he stated flatly, focusing on the task at hand.
The technician stopped momentarily, the gears turning in her head before she gave him a downcast frown. “You’re still set on going for the vehicle bay? You know we can just send some long-range drones out there, right?”
His short exhale echoed throughout the tiled room. The engineer closed his eyes, already mentally withdrawn from the conversation. They've had this discussion twice now. “It’s to be better prepared for any chemical, biological, or radiological surprises that might come up—not just for the excursion. Even more importantly, there’s no guarantee the module is in perfect shape. If I’m there in person, I’ll have the means to get through anything for those blueprints. Plus, it should only be four days, so the only issues we have are my beard and finding a way to protect the Malkrin from the radiation while we’re out.”
Tracy looked like she wanted to say something back, but bit her lip and cast her eyes down at the sink in front of her, twisting the knob before mumbling a quiet response. “I don’t think you need to protect them from radiation at all…”
“Hmm?”
She stared at him meekly, his dismissal of her worries having clearly dampened her mood. Guilt tugged at the back of his mind before her words further caught his interest. “I think they’re immune… or resistant or something. Radiation immunity is the whole reason they were sent here. You’ve added up the pieces together too, right?”
He stared down at her, running a hand through his hair with tired exasperation depressing his voice. “Tracy, I’ve been trying my hardest to just make it another day on this God-forsaken planet, not dig into their religion. So, no. I have not spent the time to add up the pieces. Enlighten me, please.”
“…S-Sorry. I just, you know, get a lot of time to think when working on drones, and Cera has been drawing all kinds of representations of these things.” Tracy paused, gesturing toward the engineer. “Okay, so you remember the whole backstory for why the Malkrin are on the mainland in the first place?”
“Pseudo-eugenics?” he commented dryly.
“Yeah.” She nodded, a sense of excitement leaking into her voice. “And what were the parameters of banishing someone?”
“Not getting sick from a rock.”
She eyed him feverishly, brows raised with a sudden zeal. “Aaaaand that rock represented the Sky Goddess’ wrath, which did what?”
“Uhhh…” He looked upward in thought, recalling his conversation with the paladin. “I think Shar mentioned nausea, vomiting, blisters, skin melting… off…” He froze, the pieces forming. “Wait, you don’t think…”
“I do. Those symptoms could mean a lot of things, but the anomaly field was the real kicker. You know that Shar just straight up didn’t have any lingering radiation effects or anything while you were nearly put… six feet under…” Her voice quieted momentarily, the speed of her speech outpacing her train of thought. “Sorry. Um… so, I was gonna say that she, uh, I mean the scanner mentioned she had damage from ‘alpha particles’ on her skin, but nothing else happened to her organs or anything.”
Harrison squinted at her for a moment, mouth slightly opened and prepared to give some alternative reasoning besides ‘immunity.’ Maybe her armor protected her from it? No… she didn’t even have full protection, radiation would have certainly gotten around her eyes or snout. What about her height? What if… No.
He didn’t just want to believe that somehow the Malkrin could just evade a force of nature, but he didn’t have any way of proving or disproving it on hand… Well, no humane way of testing it.
“I… guess?” the engineer grumbled, rubbing his eyes. “Even then, they still need armor and gas masks. The worst part of the radiation isn’t even the ionizing part. It’s the trace elements that get into your lungs and decay there. So it doesn’t hurt to use some CBRN filters.”
“Fair… but it’s interesting, isn’t it?” Tracy beamed. “Like, what kind of evolutionary factors lead to radiation immunity? Why do only some of the Malkrin have it and others don’t?”
The only real cause of radiation he could think of would be a massive nuclear proliferation of some sort. Maybe the anomalies? He ran a hand through his hair, pushing the lingering thoughts away. “I wouldn’t know. You could always ask Sebas to bring up some papers about it or generate some theories when you get the chance.”
“I probably will at some point… Maybe while I’m working.” She poked him in the bicep. “You’re still helping me with the mule, right?”
He bobbed his head, loose beard hairs itching up his chin. “Sure am. Gimme a bit to shave and test the fifty-cal ammo, then I’ll be free to assist.”
“Kay Kay.” The tradeswoman smiled and returned to the sink, washing her face.
- - - - -
“What the hell did you do to your shield?” a stunned Harrison asked the paladin, his face scrunching up in concern… and confusion.
Sharky proudly held up her once grungy orange shield with a smile, looking at its new… paint job? “Artificer Tracy has s—n to imbue my bulwark with the crest of the Sky Goddess herself! Observe the b—utiful wings that cover it!”
The engineer had just got back from setting up and overseeing the automated mule’s first excursion to the mine and back. It was a grueling task, requiring him to reset its pathing several times before it was able to make a round trip without input. Now, the maroon-skinned Malkrin in front of him had apparently gotten her massive aegis laser imprinted with crossing wings in the two hours or so he’d been gone. The areas between the black feather decals were colored with white and blue paints, contrasting with the new dark gray background.
A small weight was placed on his shoulder, Tracy’s forearm suddenly appearing atop it despite her being nearly a foot shorter than him. She beamed, staring up at him with all-too-proud eyes. “The scout regiment symbol looks good on it, right? Cera helped me with the laser engraving.”
“I…” His brows raised in perplexity. “The scout regiment?”
She shrugged, watching the paladin observe her shield from all sorts of different angles underneath the workshop’s light fixtures. “From an anime I used to watch. Men and women who were sent out to battle against massive titans for the greater good of the last settlement of humanity. Somewhat fitting, and fuckin’ awesome on her big-ass shield! Matches the bird’s wings on her armor too.”
He loudly sighed. “You wasted materials on imprinting wings on Shar’s shield? Really?”
“Hey!” Her brows furrowed into faux-annoyance, a smug grin betraying it. “It’s not a waste if you were never gonna use the paint we had on hand. Plus, we’ve got energy to spare with all the wind turbines and power cells you’ve been printing out.”
“Those paints probably could have been used for important designations… or something…” he grumbled.
“Doesn’t matter.” She stuck her tongue out at him. “Anyway, want me to put some scary teeth or something on that big ‘ol fist-sized muzzle break on your shotgun?”
“No?” he took an incredulous step away from her, letting her arm fall off his shoulder and to her side.
“It’s okay to admit you’re jealous of Shar’s awesome decals, bro,” Tracy teased, her smugness growing tenfold. “No need to get defensive.”
He groaned, figuring there wasn’t a point in staying to bicker with the tradeswoman, leaving the two vanity-focused females to their devices. He still had to figure out how to fabricate armor and gas masks for the Malkrin and himself.
“Hey! Where ya goin?” the technician called out, clearly disappointed that he hadn’t indulged in her taunts.
“Work.”
Short taps against the hard floor sounded out as she caught up to him. She leaned forward and curiously looked up at him as she walked, holding her hands behind the small of her back. “What kind? Can I help?”
“Just need to take some measurements and compare options. Right… Speaking of which.” He turned around and cupped his palms around his mouth. “Hey Shar! Get over here, I need your help!”
The addressed Malkrin perked up, snapping out of the small haze of admiring her new shield and happily making her way toward him. She stood at attention, her tail oscillating side to side. “What n—d do you have of me?”
“Just a quick task,” he briefed her, grabbing some measuring tape from his desk… that Tracy had decided was her new chair. He sighed and turned his attention back to the paladin. “Can I bother you to lean down for a few seconds while I take some measurements?”
“Of course. Pl—se, take your time.” She stepped forward and kneeled, her head brought down to his height. Her face wore that simple content look he was growing all too accustomed to by now—slightly vibrating frills, a little curl upward of her lips, and warmly glowing eyes.
He wasted no time getting to work, noting down the various distances around her jaws, snout, eyes, and ears, already piecing together how he could cobble together some gas mask designs to fit the dimensions. She sat there quietly, sometimes leaning into the accidental head scratches adorably. It contrasted heavily with the cold-sweat-inducing layers of razor-sharp teeth within her muzzle as he measured the angle her maw opened at, bringing an idle curiosity prodded his mind.
“Say, Shar, do your teeth grow back if they fall out?” he poked, absently observing the dozens of triangular bone protrusions in her mouth as he held the underside of her jaw.
“They do,” she confirmed, the way she was able to speak despite not moving her mouth still messing with his head. “Do y—rs not?”
“Nope. Only once.”
She attempted to tilt her head, but quickly returned it when it left the embrace of his palm. “Only once?”
He nodded. “Yeah, sometime a few years after birth. They’re replaced with the teeth I have now. Don’t get any new ones, so we gotta take care of ‘em.”
“Birth?” The Malkrin’s eyes widened. “You were not cr—ted as you are now?”
A shock of stress poured down his spine like a bucket of ice water, raising the hairs on his back. Fuck. How did he let that slip? He was supposed to have just appeared from the sky to her, right…? He was doing so well for so long in keeping that in. God, had he really gotten so comfortable with the paladin that he simply forgot what he was to her? His teeth clenched, a huff of air escaping his nostrils as he lightly shook his head. It was a bit too late to backtrack. It could be explained vaguely and brushed off, right?
“Yeah. I was born,” he affirmed flatly. His hand dropped away from Shar’s muzzle, her head falling an inch or two before she registered that she couldn’t keep leaning into his touch. “That’s it for measurements, so you’re free to leave.”
A frown carved through her small smile. “I… See… F—give me if I have brought up someth—g improper.”
His exhalation burned through his frustration at himself, his hand running through his hair to wash away the spike of anxiety. “You’re fine. You haven’t done anything wrong.”
“Th-Then I shall take my leave,” the massive alien stated softly.
He nodded, feeling a little regretful for pushing the kindhearted Malkrin away as he shuffled back to his desk. Tracy was still sitting atop it, giving him a disappointed reaction with low brows, forcing a pointed reaction from him. “What?”
The technician took a long inhale before shrugging. “Nothin’.”
“…Alright.”
The rolling chair squeaked lightly as he rested himself, his hands already going through the motions of opening the computer and the blueprint folders. There were plenty of tabs open of sensors and motor assemblies he hadn’t closed from the previous night. That wasn’t even mentioning the pile of notes he had on proper radio-protective methods, their corners bent from his frequent flipping through them.
“Soooo…” The short black-haired woman leaned forward from her perch atop the only clear part of his desk. “Can I help you with your ‘comparing options’ work, mister busyman?”
“Sure…” He glanced at her out of the corner of his eye, raising a brow. “How much do you know about armor?”
- - - - -
“No way. The back support is a must, so you can have extra plating over your shoulders and chest.” Tracy pointed out from her seat beside Harrison’s, all but forcing him to pause his Malkrin gas mask designing to give her argument his full attention.
He calmly took his hands off the mouse and keyboard. “A back support needs leg assistants, which means I’ll need to have at least a fifteen pound battery pack somewhere. Those kinds of exosuits are either all in or not at all. You can go full armor and engine, or lightweight protection and simple limb support.”
“So you’re just gonna go out there with normal armor? Just run-of-the-mill plates and gear? Those fucking things would go through that shit like butter! I know we can’t make synthetic muscle yet, but at least consider wearing something a bit more. Please. Even Sharky has heavy armor!”
Harrison pinched the bridge of his nose, his brows furrowed. “Do I look like a several-hundred kilogram monster of pure muscle to you? I’m more than willing to put on a few extra kilos for protection, but I’m trying to weigh the pros and cons of putting on more armor rather than more equipment. I’d rather fifty pounds of magazines and ammo than fifty pounds of armor. You know what I mean?”
“Yeah yeah… You and your storage space…” she mumbled, swiping through a few more images on her data pad when a familiar Mars-pattern suit showed up, catching his eye.
“Hey, wait, pull that one up…”
She rotated the tablet for him to see a little better—despite already being shoulder-to-shoulder with him. “This one? What’s so special about it?”
He analyzed the few pieces of equipment on screen, noting the rusty-orange and tan color scheme, the old Martian-American flag attached to its breastplate, and the iconic quad-nod integrated helmet. “Holy shit,” he whispered. “That’s… We have that in our blueprints?”
She raised a brow, clearly confused. “Whaddya mean?”
“That’s an Orbital Drop Ranger’s standard kit,” he stated slowly, a simmering sense of awe bubbling up—why the hell was it in their blueprints folder? “It was used during the Sino-Venusian incursion of southern Mars. It still has the Old Earth American flag embedded into it, so you know it’s pre twenty-two-hundred C.E.”
“Oh shit… Pre-St.Loual’s construction? This is ancient, then, huh? Would it be any good?” She leaned in closer to him, eying the tablet further.
“Does it have the assembly view of the armored pieces?”
“Mmhmm.” She tapped a few icons, showing an isometric, exploded view of all the parts and their individual components.
It was a piece of history alright. The armor was produced just about the time when Mars was connecting their orbital stations and ground colonies to work in tandem, allowing for specialized forces to be trained in space and launched anywhere across the planet from drop pods in mere minutes, leading to common nickname of ‘Minutemen’ given to the troopers. The suits were expertly designed to withstand the harsh environments of Mars and give the soldiers the ability to engage with enemy combatants for several days before extraction, though the adept units usually completed their objectives within twenty-four hours of their landing.
The helmet was very angular and blended in with the expected rocky terrain of Mars, each component taking on a sloped frontal design with rectangular prisms flowing behind—radio, breathing apparatus, and vision modules all sharing a sleek, yet bulky look in their own right. It reminded him of some in-atmosphere ships, with the overhanging visor above the quad-nod viewport being the only non-aerodynamic pieces.
The chest and legs were a bit different, following the design of late twenty-second-century operators with tan lightweight rigs, and ammunition pouches alongside armored plates that ran from the shoulders to wrists in segments. There was a rusty-orange undersuit beneath it all for the purpose of keeping air in, which required some sturdy polymer structures to ensure it didn’t rip. Then, of course, there were the classic shock-absorbing leg supports. They weren’t too far off what Tracy was asking about earlier, but these ones didn’t provide any assistance in moving with any motors—just straight-up structural reinforcements.
Hell, the blueprints on screen even had the mag-grip gloves used to scale domes, buildings, and satellites alike. There was no doubt that the Orbital Drop Rangers had some of the coolest equipment on Mars, especially considering that it was the last to keep the ‘operator’ look… It was such a shame the government decided the orb-like helmets and rounded bubble armors were more effective.
“Hey, you know what?” he asked the technician, a shot of excitement in his voice. “This might actually work out as a suitable armor replacement.”
She perked up, her brows raised. “Oh? Actually?”
He shrugged, trying to play off the smirk plastered on his face. “Wouldn’t need a horrible amount of changes to work for our purposes. Just need to remove the oxygen converter on the back and put a gas mask replacement in the front portion of the helmet. Plus, we could probably get rid of the airtight aspect and just keep the undersuit for scratch protection. And, most importantly, it’s radio-protective.”
“Meets all your criteria, then?” She tapped through some UI interfaces, sending the armor assembly to Harrison’s monitor, which he accepted quickly.
“Sure does.” He readily clicked through the different parts and systems to differentiate what needed to be kept. “We have the resources for it, and all it needs is a layer of cadmium plus a few replacements. Definitely doesn’t need the heads-up display since there’s nothing for it to interact with either, so that’ll save on print time and materials too. Shame I cut up the beard… the Orbital Drop Rangers were allowed to have some cool ones.”
The tradeswoman scooted in even closer, practically resting her chin on his shoulder and watching him sift through the working parts. “Yeah, rest in peace, beard. Still, your armor situation is solved. What about the Malkrin?”
“I’ll be working on their gas masks, then I was thinking I’d use another one of your modeled armors for their protection since they’ve helped Shar a hell of a lot. Do you have any recommendations?”
“Mmmmm…” She looked up in thought, a smile forming along her cheeks. “You know, until we can make them any real power armor, I was thinking just some regular phobos-pattern armor. Could color ‘em based on their skin too.”
“Phobos-pattern armor?” he hummed to himself, clicking through the folder to find it. It was just as bulky as Shar’s armor, except it appeared a good bit smoother, with more rounded edges compared to her horns-and-spike-lined gauntlets and pauldrons. The blue suit Tracy was proposing didn’t have the four-armed protection compared to the chaos version, but it certainly had the same thickness of its metal plates. “Looks like it’d work pretty well. Does it have any electric components or anything?”
“No…” she huffed, crossing her arms over her chest. “Not so good with designing that stuff in the modeling program I did the WarHarberd stuff in. Could add in more sophisticated leg support or whatever if you gave me time, but for now it’s just maneuverable slabs of alloy.”
“I think that’s all we need for the time being.” He shrugged. “I just don’t want the others to be vulnerable to getting cut up by the little spider-crab grunts.”
“As long as it works for what we need, then.” Her elbow poked into his arm. “Here, how about I take care of that armor stuff while you finish up the gas masks? They need the extra arm slots too, yeah?”
“I’d actually appreciate that a lot.” He offered her a back-palm fist bump, to which she eagerly took, taking on a grin that he mirrored. “Thanks, Trace.”
“Don’t mention it. I wish work was always just doing my hobbies like this.”
\= = = = =
A grand pylon of metal construction taller than the mightiest female’s frills stood atop the beach. Blue-scaled surfaces extended near the foot of the tower, gathering the power of the sun itself. The lattice layering upon their sides hid the weaving wires and Goddess-blessed machinery. A staff the same as Shar’khee’s peeked from its top, the glass eye on its side given a wide view of the sandy environment it resided on, the defense it now provided becoming absolute. The aura it exuded as a creature of pure metal was awe-inspiring, its mere presence a showing of Harrison’s might and domain.
No abhorrent would dare step foot upon the meadow’s rolling hills, for such a mistake would ensure their immediate execution for encroaching upon his settlement—the ‘fifty-cal-e-bur’ bullet is not one to rend any beast with only simple injuries, especially with three hundred of them available at once.
The maroon-skinned paladin treaded up the hill, having completed her task of setting up the last turret. The craftsman, the juvenile, and the lumberjack had also assisted with its setup, pulling their weight in both mind and muscles to piece the components together. They completed a few others around the modules already, but this one was done without the star-sents’ oversight. The four Malkrin had practiced and learned enough to be entrusted with such.
The idea of Harrison having enough confidence in them sparked much conviction in the group, each of them more than eager to prove him right—none more so than Shar’khee herself, of course.
She finally returned to the workshop, the sun’s last rays pressing into the back of her head and frills as she crouched beneath the doorway, a small gnawing hunger for dinner digging within her stomach. The cacophony of machines soon reached her ears, the sounds of their efforts almost working in tandem with the strange melodic music playing from an unseen source above her.
Tracy was in her corner, working on new beings of metal as always. The bright lights above were turned off in favor of smaller, warmer emplacements atop her surrounding circle of desks. A hard worker, that star-sent was, though both of them were like that, the paladin supposed. Their kind was certainly intent on keeping their hands busy.
Shar’khee passed through the snakes of machines, finding her way to Harrison’s desk with an increasingly strong sway in her tail. He was working with a black object with light gray accents. It appeared to be partially flexible, yet firm in other places—notably, a large glass fixture on one side of it. There was very little she could make out about its purpose, but with the delicate touches he applied, it appeared to be quite important.
Her tongue clicked twice, garnering the attention of the Creator. He paused his work, swiveling his chair to face her and revealing a long blue-leaf jutting from his mouth. Her male appeared quite tired, but his voice did not show it.
“Oh, Shar, what’s up? Did y’all need any help with the last turret?”
She shook her head. “We do not n—d such, for it is completed. Would you care to join me for din—r? The rest of the settlem—t is enjoying their meals as of now. ”
He raised his brows before looking back at the myriad of notes, tools, and materials atop his cluttered desk. “Well, I’m kinda busy, but…” His jaw rolled around in contemplation. “Here. Let’s just test this thing real quick.”
Her head tilted. “What sh—l we be testing?”
“Your gas mask… er, well, a Malkrin gas mask. Kneel down real quick, I’ll run ya through putting it on.” He stepped off his chair and grabbed the equipment, uncomfortably rotating his shoulders. How long was he sitting on that chair? The male approached her and she did as requested. “I had the sewist help me with some of the design. Never considered you guys would ever wear hats.”
She nodded. “It is unh—lthy for one to have their frills touched by the sun for so long. Adequate shade is a must, and trees are not so p—valent along farm land.”
“Mmhmm. Shame this is just a mask… Alright, this might be a bit uncomfortable, but it’ll do the job.”
He stepped forward and slipped the black apparel onto her snout, pushing it over her face until it pressed against the sides of her head. A cool material rubbed against her skin, locking her into its embrace. It was encapsulating, surrounding her wholly.
Her breaths strengthened as she allowed the mask to cover her, a short shock of nervousness riding down her spine. She was only now registering how vulnerable she was, allowing him to possibly suffocate her… but she stayed put, keeping her four palms rested within her lap as he continued to apply the straps around her ears. She would allow it. She trusted him with her life. She would not falter.
The cords around the back of her head were tight, a few of which went along both sides of her frills, pushing up against their sides. He kept going, ensuring a ‘seal,’ but it was getting much too—
Pop.
A lightning bolt of pain rolled throughout the top of her head, sending her reeling. It stung for the briefest of moments, but its effects rebounded through her entire body, short sparks pulsing from its origin. She felt nothing but its agonizing hold for several more moments as the rest of her body caught up.
When her eyes opened once more, she found herself on the floor and staring at the ceiling. The star-sent rushed to her side, appearing to ask many questions while looking over her head, but all she heard was a piercing ring and the gruff vocalization he made whenever he shared his intent. No words reached her mind, only the now faint phantom pains from where her frills met her skull. It put everything in a haze, her eyes barely settling on her dearest’s, despite how nauseous she had become.
His deft hands quickly worked to loosen the straps, practically ripping them off until his voice suddenly reached her, like breaching the surface of the water. His voice was deep, attempting to be calculating, yet despite his calmly created stoic demeanor… she could feel his panic, his sheer worry almost flooding her senses through practiced medical queries. She slowly sat up on the floor, holding herself with two arms while the other pair quelled the kneeling male, assuring him that she was alright with their weight resting atop his shoulders.
“I am well, dearest Harrison. Do not fret for me. The straps were simply too tight.”
His anxious breaths barely slowed, narrowly allowing for his exclamation. “Too tight? Shar, you practically blacked out!”
“Too tight upon my frills, I mean. There was a pain there for a few moments, but it has passed,” she returned calmly, softly kneading his stiff shoulders with the joints of her digits.
He exhaled sharply, matching her gaze with regret in his eyes. “I’m so sorry, Shar. I should’ve known. I was just trying to see how…” He paused, resting his palm atop her forearm. “Nevermind. I just… Are you alright? Should I get you to the med bay for a quick scan?”
“I do not believe that to be necessary, no.”
His guard finally fell. “If… If you say so. Guess I have to redo the straps then. Definitely gotta make sure they’re not pressing on your frills like that.”
She smiled, appreciating his dedication. “Would you like my assistance?”
“As long as you don’t have anything else to do.” He shrugged, his shoulders barely moving upward against her massaging hands.
“There is no greater wish of mine than to be by your side,” she stated warmly.
He was frozen, the soft ministrations of his digits along her arm slowly stopping in contrast to the red flush growing from his cheeks to his ears. The crack of a smirk on his face finally with a short, heart-warming chuckle brought the statue back to life after a few moments. “You know… that’s probably the sweetest thing I’ve heard for years.”
Her brows raised in subtle surprise at his response. “It… was not intended to be such… However… you are more than welcome. You must understand by now that I am speaking only the truth.”
The two of them sat there in relative silence amongst the desks and machines; her half laying on the ground with her hands on his shoulder, and him on his knees by her side, a singular hand running up and down her comparatively large forearm. She felt… weak, in a way. A vibrating sensation rummaged through her stomach, attempting to pull her muscles and nerves astray.
It was warm, just like his palm, each motion of his hand sending lightning through her skin. The upward curl of her lips into her cheeks was suddenly an insurmountable force, incapable of being put down by a thousand females. There was a tear within her to either look away or… close the distance, and she suddenly found looking anywhere but his curious green eyes to be a waste of her time.
Her talons wrapped further around his shoulders and his back, ever so slightly bringing him into her embrace—
“A-HEM.” A voice cut the moment down to its knees. “The fuck happened here?” Tracy’s swift interjection caused the paladin to flinch backwards, allowing her to see that Harrison’s other hand had been hovering right beneath her snout. The female star-sent wore a furrowed brow and crossed arms, looking down at them. “I heard a crash and came over. Are you two alright?”
Harrison cleared his throat, ever-so-subtly scooting away from the paladin. “Uh, yeah. Shar fell because, um, I tied the gas mask a lil’ too tight.”
The artificer wore an expression that told of her disbelief. “She fell because of the gas mask?”
“It was something with her frills.” The male returned with a shrug, picking himself off the floor before offering the paladin a hand up.
She took it, despite not requiring it, and wiped off some loose dust from her pants. The three of them quickly returned to work soon after, with both her and the black-haired star-sent joining Harrison in his quest to produce the gas mask. She was much less… What did the Creator call it? Bubbly? Yes, that was it. She was much less bubbly than usual, sometimes sending a cold yet emotionless glare toward Shar’khee… Nevertheless, the two females offered input on the design and applied help where they could, eventually creating the final piece of equipment.
Tracy commented on its looks, apparently drawing inspiration from the Leviathan itself, as she believed it to be like that of a ‘Sea Dragon’s.’ The maw-covering portion held two cylindrical canisters on the adjacent sides, the bottom portion being capable of distention, so that the user’s mouth may open somewhat. Its motion created what the female star-sent believed to be ‘the coolest teeth design on a mask’ she’d ever seen with how the separation formed alternating triangles.
The monster-like appearance was furthered by her own frills and horns that peeked out from behind the mask. That was not even mentioning the see-through visor that formed a malicious glare of sharp brows. The paladin looked through a hand-held mirror, finding it difficult to disagree with the look. She could imagine the horror on a fisherwoman’s face as such a terrifying creature approached from the depths.
And yet, despite its nightmarish visage, it was apparel designed to save lives, not take them—much unlike the unassuming metal rods that spewed fire with a mere flick of a lever. Curious indeed. The star-sents were seemingly never out of surprises. They even spoke of grand robots and firearms larger than Shar’khee herself as possible future projects.
Only time could tell what machinations of alloy would be birthed from their hands.
- - - - -
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Next time on Total Drama Anomaly Island - Under The Milky Way
submitted by BrodogIsMyName to HFY [link] [comments]
WaveOfWire Edits :D
- - - - -
Harrison’s vision was still foggy from waking up, several blinks failing to clear the tears from his drawn-out yawn. He just escaped the encompassing embrace of his four-armed guardian, leaving their shared bed for the bathroom, where he would have to say goodbye to his beard. If he was going to travel out of the settlement, a proper seal on his gas mask was a must.
It was a shame. The slow buildup of the hair over the last month or so was a representation of his growth in a way, building up alongside his experiences in this hellhole, be they life-threatening or informative. It was almost like wiping the slate clean, even if cutting some chin scruff didn’t really change anything at all—he’d never be able to forget anything he had seen here for as long as he lived.
And there was no telling how long that’d be.
The engineer sighed, splashing the lukewarm barracks water into his face from one of the many wall-attached sinks, allowing him to fully open his eyes and size up the damage done to his favorite black blood-and-sweat-stained t-shirt. It always stayed in good condition with washing and fabricator repairs, but somehow Shar’s talons always found a way to make small holes in it. She wasn’t trying to, but with the way she fully wrapped her arms around him, the tips of her sharp fingers sometimes ended up poking into the fabric and causing some cuts.
It was such a small issue that he never considered bringing it up to her. Plus, she’d probably do her whole guilty talon-tapping thing with puppy eyes and all… He shook his head, letting the stray beads of water on his face drip into the sink.
His palm ran across his beard while his other hand reached for the razor. There wasn’t any shaving cream or the like, but he’d make do. At least he had one of the proper tools for the job. He went into the task, the blade driving through his scruff, slopping off wide areas of his hair from jaw to chin for a few seconds before it was interrupted.
A short ‘woosh’ of the entrance caught his attention.
“Aww, you’re shavin’ it off?” Tracy commented dejectedly through a yawn, the lazy drawl reinforcing the fact that she just woke up. “Th’ beard was sorta growin’ on me.”
He eyed her through the mirror, his voice coming out in a dull tone. “Yeah. I feel the same.”
She squinted under the bright bathroom lights, rubbing an eye with her wrist as she walked up to the sink beside him and started her own morning routine. “Mmm… Womp womp. Why though?”
“Need it to get a gas mask seal,” he stated flatly, focusing on the task at hand.
The technician stopped momentarily, the gears turning in her head before she gave him a downcast frown. “You’re still set on going for the vehicle bay? You know we can just send some long-range drones out there, right?”
His short exhale echoed throughout the tiled room. The engineer closed his eyes, already mentally withdrawn from the conversation. They've had this discussion twice now. “It’s to be better prepared for any chemical, biological, or radiological surprises that might come up—not just for the excursion. Even more importantly, there’s no guarantee the module is in perfect shape. If I’m there in person, I’ll have the means to get through anything for those blueprints. Plus, it should only be four days, so the only issues we have are my beard and finding a way to protect the Malkrin from the radiation while we’re out.”
Tracy looked like she wanted to say something back, but bit her lip and cast her eyes down at the sink in front of her, twisting the knob before mumbling a quiet response. “I don’t think you need to protect them from radiation at all…”
“Hmm?”
She stared at him meekly, his dismissal of her worries having clearly dampened her mood. Guilt tugged at the back of his mind before her words further caught his interest. “I think they’re immune… or resistant or something. Radiation immunity is the whole reason they were sent here. You’ve added up the pieces together too, right?”
He stared down at her, running a hand through his hair with tired exasperation depressing his voice. “Tracy, I’ve been trying my hardest to just make it another day on this God-forsaken planet, not dig into their religion. So, no. I have not spent the time to add up the pieces. Enlighten me, please.”
“…S-Sorry. I just, you know, get a lot of time to think when working on drones, and Cera has been drawing all kinds of representations of these things.” Tracy paused, gesturing toward the engineer. “Okay, so you remember the whole backstory for why the Malkrin are on the mainland in the first place?”
“Pseudo-eugenics?” he commented dryly.
“Yeah.” She nodded, a sense of excitement leaking into her voice. “And what were the parameters of banishing someone?”
“Not getting sick from a rock.”
She eyed him feverishly, brows raised with a sudden zeal. “Aaaaand that rock represented the Sky Goddess’ wrath, which did what?”
“Uhhh…” He looked upward in thought, recalling his conversation with the paladin. “I think Shar mentioned nausea, vomiting, blisters, skin melting… off…” He froze, the pieces forming. “Wait, you don’t think…”
“I do. Those symptoms could mean a lot of things, but the anomaly field was the real kicker. You know that Shar just straight up didn’t have any lingering radiation effects or anything while you were nearly put… six feet under…” Her voice quieted momentarily, the speed of her speech outpacing her train of thought. “Sorry. Um… so, I was gonna say that she, uh, I mean the scanner mentioned she had damage from ‘alpha particles’ on her skin, but nothing else happened to her organs or anything.”
Harrison squinted at her for a moment, mouth slightly opened and prepared to give some alternative reasoning besides ‘immunity.’ Maybe her armor protected her from it? No… she didn’t even have full protection, radiation would have certainly gotten around her eyes or snout. What about her height? What if… No.
He didn’t just want to believe that somehow the Malkrin could just evade a force of nature, but he didn’t have any way of proving or disproving it on hand… Well, no humane way of testing it.
“I… guess?” the engineer grumbled, rubbing his eyes. “Even then, they still need armor and gas masks. The worst part of the radiation isn’t even the ionizing part. It’s the trace elements that get into your lungs and decay there. So it doesn’t hurt to use some CBRN filters.”
“Fair… but it’s interesting, isn’t it?” Tracy beamed. “Like, what kind of evolutionary factors lead to radiation immunity? Why do only some of the Malkrin have it and others don’t?”
The only real cause of radiation he could think of would be a massive nuclear proliferation of some sort. Maybe the anomalies? He ran a hand through his hair, pushing the lingering thoughts away. “I wouldn’t know. You could always ask Sebas to bring up some papers about it or generate some theories when you get the chance.”
“I probably will at some point… Maybe while I’m working.” She poked him in the bicep. “You’re still helping me with the mule, right?”
He bobbed his head, loose beard hairs itching up his chin. “Sure am. Gimme a bit to shave and test the fifty-cal ammo, then I’ll be free to assist.”
“Kay Kay.” The tradeswoman smiled and returned to the sink, washing her face.
- - - - -
“What the hell did you do to your shield?” a stunned Harrison asked the paladin, his face scrunching up in concern… and confusion.
Sharky proudly held up her once grungy orange shield with a smile, looking at its new… paint job? “Artificer Tracy has s—n to imbue my bulwark with the crest of the Sky Goddess herself! Observe the b—utiful wings that cover it!”
The engineer had just got back from setting up and overseeing the automated mule’s first excursion to the mine and back. It was a grueling task, requiring him to reset its pathing several times before it was able to make a round trip without input. Now, the maroon-skinned Malkrin in front of him had apparently gotten her massive aegis laser imprinted with crossing wings in the two hours or so he’d been gone. The areas between the black feather decals were colored with white and blue paints, contrasting with the new dark gray background.
A small weight was placed on his shoulder, Tracy’s forearm suddenly appearing atop it despite her being nearly a foot shorter than him. She beamed, staring up at him with all-too-proud eyes. “The scout regiment symbol looks good on it, right? Cera helped me with the laser engraving.”
“I…” His brows raised in perplexity. “The scout regiment?”
She shrugged, watching the paladin observe her shield from all sorts of different angles underneath the workshop’s light fixtures. “From an anime I used to watch. Men and women who were sent out to battle against massive titans for the greater good of the last settlement of humanity. Somewhat fitting, and fuckin’ awesome on her big-ass shield! Matches the bird’s wings on her armor too.”
He loudly sighed. “You wasted materials on imprinting wings on Shar’s shield? Really?”
“Hey!” Her brows furrowed into faux-annoyance, a smug grin betraying it. “It’s not a waste if you were never gonna use the paint we had on hand. Plus, we’ve got energy to spare with all the wind turbines and power cells you’ve been printing out.”
“Those paints probably could have been used for important designations… or something…” he grumbled.
“Doesn’t matter.” She stuck her tongue out at him. “Anyway, want me to put some scary teeth or something on that big ‘ol fist-sized muzzle break on your shotgun?”
“No?” he took an incredulous step away from her, letting her arm fall off his shoulder and to her side.
“It’s okay to admit you’re jealous of Shar’s awesome decals, bro,” Tracy teased, her smugness growing tenfold. “No need to get defensive.”
He groaned, figuring there wasn’t a point in staying to bicker with the tradeswoman, leaving the two vanity-focused females to their devices. He still had to figure out how to fabricate armor and gas masks for the Malkrin and himself.
“Hey! Where ya goin?” the technician called out, clearly disappointed that he hadn’t indulged in her taunts.
“Work.”
Short taps against the hard floor sounded out as she caught up to him. She leaned forward and curiously looked up at him as she walked, holding her hands behind the small of her back. “What kind? Can I help?”
“Just need to take some measurements and compare options. Right… Speaking of which.” He turned around and cupped his palms around his mouth. “Hey Shar! Get over here, I need your help!”
The addressed Malkrin perked up, snapping out of the small haze of admiring her new shield and happily making her way toward him. She stood at attention, her tail oscillating side to side. “What n—d do you have of me?”
“Just a quick task,” he briefed her, grabbing some measuring tape from his desk… that Tracy had decided was her new chair. He sighed and turned his attention back to the paladin. “Can I bother you to lean down for a few seconds while I take some measurements?”
“Of course. Pl—se, take your time.” She stepped forward and kneeled, her head brought down to his height. Her face wore that simple content look he was growing all too accustomed to by now—slightly vibrating frills, a little curl upward of her lips, and warmly glowing eyes.
He wasted no time getting to work, noting down the various distances around her jaws, snout, eyes, and ears, already piecing together how he could cobble together some gas mask designs to fit the dimensions. She sat there quietly, sometimes leaning into the accidental head scratches adorably. It contrasted heavily with the cold-sweat-inducing layers of razor-sharp teeth within her muzzle as he measured the angle her maw opened at, bringing an idle curiosity prodded his mind.
“Say, Shar, do your teeth grow back if they fall out?” he poked, absently observing the dozens of triangular bone protrusions in her mouth as he held the underside of her jaw.
“They do,” she confirmed, the way she was able to speak despite not moving her mouth still messing with his head. “Do y—rs not?”
“Nope. Only once.”
She attempted to tilt her head, but quickly returned it when it left the embrace of his palm. “Only once?”
He nodded. “Yeah, sometime a few years after birth. They’re replaced with the teeth I have now. Don’t get any new ones, so we gotta take care of ‘em.”
“Birth?” The Malkrin’s eyes widened. “You were not cr—ted as you are now?”
A shock of stress poured down his spine like a bucket of ice water, raising the hairs on his back. Fuck. How did he let that slip? He was supposed to have just appeared from the sky to her, right…? He was doing so well for so long in keeping that in. God, had he really gotten so comfortable with the paladin that he simply forgot what he was to her? His teeth clenched, a huff of air escaping his nostrils as he lightly shook his head. It was a bit too late to backtrack. It could be explained vaguely and brushed off, right?
“Yeah. I was born,” he affirmed flatly. His hand dropped away from Shar’s muzzle, her head falling an inch or two before she registered that she couldn’t keep leaning into his touch. “That’s it for measurements, so you’re free to leave.”
A frown carved through her small smile. “I… See… F—give me if I have brought up someth—g improper.”
His exhalation burned through his frustration at himself, his hand running through his hair to wash away the spike of anxiety. “You’re fine. You haven’t done anything wrong.”
“Th-Then I shall take my leave,” the massive alien stated softly.
He nodded, feeling a little regretful for pushing the kindhearted Malkrin away as he shuffled back to his desk. Tracy was still sitting atop it, giving him a disappointed reaction with low brows, forcing a pointed reaction from him. “What?”
The technician took a long inhale before shrugging. “Nothin’.”
“…Alright.”
The rolling chair squeaked lightly as he rested himself, his hands already going through the motions of opening the computer and the blueprint folders. There were plenty of tabs open of sensors and motor assemblies he hadn’t closed from the previous night. That wasn’t even mentioning the pile of notes he had on proper radio-protective methods, their corners bent from his frequent flipping through them.
“Soooo…” The short black-haired woman leaned forward from her perch atop the only clear part of his desk. “Can I help you with your ‘comparing options’ work, mister busyman?”
“Sure…” He glanced at her out of the corner of his eye, raising a brow. “How much do you know about armor?”
- - - - -
“No way. The back support is a must, so you can have extra plating over your shoulders and chest.” Tracy pointed out from her seat beside Harrison’s, all but forcing him to pause his Malkrin gas mask designing to give her argument his full attention.
He calmly took his hands off the mouse and keyboard. “A back support needs leg assistants, which means I’ll need to have at least a fifteen pound battery pack somewhere. Those kinds of exosuits are either all in or not at all. You can go full armor and engine, or lightweight protection and simple limb support.”
“So you’re just gonna go out there with normal armor? Just run-of-the-mill plates and gear? Those fucking things would go through that shit like butter! I know we can’t make synthetic muscle yet, but at least consider wearing something a bit more. Please. Even Sharky has heavy armor!”
Harrison pinched the bridge of his nose, his brows furrowed. “Do I look like a several-hundred kilogram monster of pure muscle to you? I’m more than willing to put on a few extra kilos for protection, but I’m trying to weigh the pros and cons of putting on more armor rather than more equipment. I’d rather fifty pounds of magazines and ammo than fifty pounds of armor. You know what I mean?”
“Yeah yeah… You and your storage space…” she mumbled, swiping through a few more images on her data pad when a familiar Mars-pattern suit showed up, catching his eye.
“Hey, wait, pull that one up…”
She rotated the tablet for him to see a little better—despite already being shoulder-to-shoulder with him. “This one? What’s so special about it?”
He analyzed the few pieces of equipment on screen, noting the rusty-orange and tan color scheme, the old Martian-American flag attached to its breastplate, and the iconic quad-nod integrated helmet. “Holy shit,” he whispered. “That’s… We have that in our blueprints?”
She raised a brow, clearly confused. “Whaddya mean?”
“That’s an Orbital Drop Ranger’s standard kit,” he stated slowly, a simmering sense of awe bubbling up—why the hell was it in their blueprints folder? “It was used during the Sino-Venusian incursion of southern Mars. It still has the Old Earth American flag embedded into it, so you know it’s pre twenty-two-hundred C.E.”
“Oh shit… Pre-St.Loual’s construction? This is ancient, then, huh? Would it be any good?” She leaned in closer to him, eying the tablet further.
“Does it have the assembly view of the armored pieces?”
“Mmhmm.” She tapped a few icons, showing an isometric, exploded view of all the parts and their individual components.
It was a piece of history alright. The armor was produced just about the time when Mars was connecting their orbital stations and ground colonies to work in tandem, allowing for specialized forces to be trained in space and launched anywhere across the planet from drop pods in mere minutes, leading to common nickname of ‘Minutemen’ given to the troopers. The suits were expertly designed to withstand the harsh environments of Mars and give the soldiers the ability to engage with enemy combatants for several days before extraction, though the adept units usually completed their objectives within twenty-four hours of their landing.
The helmet was very angular and blended in with the expected rocky terrain of Mars, each component taking on a sloped frontal design with rectangular prisms flowing behind—radio, breathing apparatus, and vision modules all sharing a sleek, yet bulky look in their own right. It reminded him of some in-atmosphere ships, with the overhanging visor above the quad-nod viewport being the only non-aerodynamic pieces.
The chest and legs were a bit different, following the design of late twenty-second-century operators with tan lightweight rigs, and ammunition pouches alongside armored plates that ran from the shoulders to wrists in segments. There was a rusty-orange undersuit beneath it all for the purpose of keeping air in, which required some sturdy polymer structures to ensure it didn’t rip. Then, of course, there were the classic shock-absorbing leg supports. They weren’t too far off what Tracy was asking about earlier, but these ones didn’t provide any assistance in moving with any motors—just straight-up structural reinforcements.
Hell, the blueprints on screen even had the mag-grip gloves used to scale domes, buildings, and satellites alike. There was no doubt that the Orbital Drop Rangers had some of the coolest equipment on Mars, especially considering that it was the last to keep the ‘operator’ look… It was such a shame the government decided the orb-like helmets and rounded bubble armors were more effective.
“Hey, you know what?” he asked the technician, a shot of excitement in his voice. “This might actually work out as a suitable armor replacement.”
She perked up, her brows raised. “Oh? Actually?”
He shrugged, trying to play off the smirk plastered on his face. “Wouldn’t need a horrible amount of changes to work for our purposes. Just need to remove the oxygen converter on the back and put a gas mask replacement in the front portion of the helmet. Plus, we could probably get rid of the airtight aspect and just keep the undersuit for scratch protection. And, most importantly, it’s radio-protective.”
“Meets all your criteria, then?” She tapped through some UI interfaces, sending the armor assembly to Harrison’s monitor, which he accepted quickly.
“Sure does.” He readily clicked through the different parts and systems to differentiate what needed to be kept. “We have the resources for it, and all it needs is a layer of cadmium plus a few replacements. Definitely doesn’t need the heads-up display since there’s nothing for it to interact with either, so that’ll save on print time and materials too. Shame I cut up the beard… the Orbital Drop Rangers were allowed to have some cool ones.”
The tradeswoman scooted in even closer, practically resting her chin on his shoulder and watching him sift through the working parts. “Yeah, rest in peace, beard. Still, your armor situation is solved. What about the Malkrin?”
“I’ll be working on their gas masks, then I was thinking I’d use another one of your modeled armors for their protection since they’ve helped Shar a hell of a lot. Do you have any recommendations?”
“Mmmmm…” She looked up in thought, a smile forming along her cheeks. “You know, until we can make them any real power armor, I was thinking just some regular phobos-pattern armor. Could color ‘em based on their skin too.”
“Phobos-pattern armor?” he hummed to himself, clicking through the folder to find it. It was just as bulky as Shar’s armor, except it appeared a good bit smoother, with more rounded edges compared to her horns-and-spike-lined gauntlets and pauldrons. The blue suit Tracy was proposing didn’t have the four-armed protection compared to the chaos version, but it certainly had the same thickness of its metal plates. “Looks like it’d work pretty well. Does it have any electric components or anything?”
“No…” she huffed, crossing her arms over her chest. “Not so good with designing that stuff in the modeling program I did the WarHarberd stuff in. Could add in more sophisticated leg support or whatever if you gave me time, but for now it’s just maneuverable slabs of alloy.”
“I think that’s all we need for the time being.” He shrugged. “I just don’t want the others to be vulnerable to getting cut up by the little spider-crab grunts.”
“As long as it works for what we need, then.” Her elbow poked into his arm. “Here, how about I take care of that armor stuff while you finish up the gas masks? They need the extra arm slots too, yeah?”
“I’d actually appreciate that a lot.” He offered her a back-palm fist bump, to which she eagerly took, taking on a grin that he mirrored. “Thanks, Trace.”
“Don’t mention it. I wish work was always just doing my hobbies like this.”
\= = = = =
A grand pylon of metal construction taller than the mightiest female’s frills stood atop the beach. Blue-scaled surfaces extended near the foot of the tower, gathering the power of the sun itself. The lattice layering upon their sides hid the weaving wires and Goddess-blessed machinery. A staff the same as Shar’khee’s peeked from its top, the glass eye on its side given a wide view of the sandy environment it resided on, the defense it now provided becoming absolute. The aura it exuded as a creature of pure metal was awe-inspiring, its mere presence a showing of Harrison’s might and domain.
No abhorrent would dare step foot upon the meadow’s rolling hills, for such a mistake would ensure their immediate execution for encroaching upon his settlement—the ‘fifty-cal-e-bur’ bullet is not one to rend any beast with only simple injuries, especially with three hundred of them available at once.
The maroon-skinned paladin treaded up the hill, having completed her task of setting up the last turret. The craftsman, the juvenile, and the lumberjack had also assisted with its setup, pulling their weight in both mind and muscles to piece the components together. They completed a few others around the modules already, but this one was done without the star-sents’ oversight. The four Malkrin had practiced and learned enough to be entrusted with such.
The idea of Harrison having enough confidence in them sparked much conviction in the group, each of them more than eager to prove him right—none more so than Shar’khee herself, of course.
She finally returned to the workshop, the sun’s last rays pressing into the back of her head and frills as she crouched beneath the doorway, a small gnawing hunger for dinner digging within her stomach. The cacophony of machines soon reached her ears, the sounds of their efforts almost working in tandem with the strange melodic music playing from an unseen source above her.
Tracy was in her corner, working on new beings of metal as always. The bright lights above were turned off in favor of smaller, warmer emplacements atop her surrounding circle of desks. A hard worker, that star-sent was, though both of them were like that, the paladin supposed. Their kind was certainly intent on keeping their hands busy.
Shar’khee passed through the snakes of machines, finding her way to Harrison’s desk with an increasingly strong sway in her tail. He was working with a black object with light gray accents. It appeared to be partially flexible, yet firm in other places—notably, a large glass fixture on one side of it. There was very little she could make out about its purpose, but with the delicate touches he applied, it appeared to be quite important.
Her tongue clicked twice, garnering the attention of the Creator. He paused his work, swiveling his chair to face her and revealing a long blue-leaf jutting from his mouth. Her male appeared quite tired, but his voice did not show it.
“Oh, Shar, what’s up? Did y’all need any help with the last turret?”
She shook her head. “We do not n—d such, for it is completed. Would you care to join me for din—r? The rest of the settlem—t is enjoying their meals as of now. ”
He raised his brows before looking back at the myriad of notes, tools, and materials atop his cluttered desk. “Well, I’m kinda busy, but…” His jaw rolled around in contemplation. “Here. Let’s just test this thing real quick.”
Her head tilted. “What sh—l we be testing?”
“Your gas mask… er, well, a Malkrin gas mask. Kneel down real quick, I’ll run ya through putting it on.” He stepped off his chair and grabbed the equipment, uncomfortably rotating his shoulders. How long was he sitting on that chair? The male approached her and she did as requested. “I had the sewist help me with some of the design. Never considered you guys would ever wear hats.”
She nodded. “It is unh—lthy for one to have their frills touched by the sun for so long. Adequate shade is a must, and trees are not so p—valent along farm land.”
“Mmhmm. Shame this is just a mask… Alright, this might be a bit uncomfortable, but it’ll do the job.”
He stepped forward and slipped the black apparel onto her snout, pushing it over her face until it pressed against the sides of her head. A cool material rubbed against her skin, locking her into its embrace. It was encapsulating, surrounding her wholly.
Her breaths strengthened as she allowed the mask to cover her, a short shock of nervousness riding down her spine. She was only now registering how vulnerable she was, allowing him to possibly suffocate her… but she stayed put, keeping her four palms rested within her lap as he continued to apply the straps around her ears. She would allow it. She trusted him with her life. She would not falter.
The cords around the back of her head were tight, a few of which went along both sides of her frills, pushing up against their sides. He kept going, ensuring a ‘seal,’ but it was getting much too—
Pop.
A lightning bolt of pain rolled throughout the top of her head, sending her reeling. It stung for the briefest of moments, but its effects rebounded through her entire body, short sparks pulsing from its origin. She felt nothing but its agonizing hold for several more moments as the rest of her body caught up.
When her eyes opened once more, she found herself on the floor and staring at the ceiling. The star-sent rushed to her side, appearing to ask many questions while looking over her head, but all she heard was a piercing ring and the gruff vocalization he made whenever he shared his intent. No words reached her mind, only the now faint phantom pains from where her frills met her skull. It put everything in a haze, her eyes barely settling on her dearest’s, despite how nauseous she had become.
His deft hands quickly worked to loosen the straps, practically ripping them off until his voice suddenly reached her, like breaching the surface of the water. His voice was deep, attempting to be calculating, yet despite his calmly created stoic demeanor… she could feel his panic, his sheer worry almost flooding her senses through practiced medical queries. She slowly sat up on the floor, holding herself with two arms while the other pair quelled the kneeling male, assuring him that she was alright with their weight resting atop his shoulders.
“I am well, dearest Harrison. Do not fret for me. The straps were simply too tight.”
His anxious breaths barely slowed, narrowly allowing for his exclamation. “Too tight? Shar, you practically blacked out!”
“Too tight upon my frills, I mean. There was a pain there for a few moments, but it has passed,” she returned calmly, softly kneading his stiff shoulders with the joints of her digits.
He exhaled sharply, matching her gaze with regret in his eyes. “I’m so sorry, Shar. I should’ve known. I was just trying to see how…” He paused, resting his palm atop her forearm. “Nevermind. I just… Are you alright? Should I get you to the med bay for a quick scan?”
“I do not believe that to be necessary, no.”
His guard finally fell. “If… If you say so. Guess I have to redo the straps then. Definitely gotta make sure they’re not pressing on your frills like that.”
She smiled, appreciating his dedication. “Would you like my assistance?”
“As long as you don’t have anything else to do.” He shrugged, his shoulders barely moving upward against her massaging hands.
“There is no greater wish of mine than to be by your side,” she stated warmly.
He was frozen, the soft ministrations of his digits along her arm slowly stopping in contrast to the red flush growing from his cheeks to his ears. The crack of a smirk on his face finally with a short, heart-warming chuckle brought the statue back to life after a few moments. “You know… that’s probably the sweetest thing I’ve heard for years.”
Her brows raised in subtle surprise at his response. “It… was not intended to be such… However… you are more than welcome. You must understand by now that I am speaking only the truth.”
The two of them sat there in relative silence amongst the desks and machines; her half laying on the ground with her hands on his shoulder, and him on his knees by her side, a singular hand running up and down her comparatively large forearm. She felt… weak, in a way. A vibrating sensation rummaged through her stomach, attempting to pull her muscles and nerves astray.
It was warm, just like his palm, each motion of his hand sending lightning through her skin. The upward curl of her lips into her cheeks was suddenly an insurmountable force, incapable of being put down by a thousand females. There was a tear within her to either look away or… close the distance, and she suddenly found looking anywhere but his curious green eyes to be a waste of her time.
Her talons wrapped further around his shoulders and his back, ever so slightly bringing him into her embrace—
“A-HEM.” A voice cut the moment down to its knees. “The fuck happened here?” Tracy’s swift interjection caused the paladin to flinch backwards, allowing her to see that Harrison’s other hand had been hovering right beneath her snout. The female star-sent wore a furrowed brow and crossed arms, looking down at them. “I heard a crash and came over. Are you two alright?”
Harrison cleared his throat, ever-so-subtly scooting away from the paladin. “Uh, yeah. Shar fell because, um, I tied the gas mask a lil’ too tight.”
The artificer wore an expression that told of her disbelief. “She fell because of the gas mask?”
“It was something with her frills.” The male returned with a shrug, picking himself off the floor before offering the paladin a hand up.
She took it, despite not requiring it, and wiped off some loose dust from her pants. The three of them quickly returned to work soon after, with both her and the black-haired star-sent joining Harrison in his quest to produce the gas mask. She was much less… What did the Creator call it? Bubbly? Yes, that was it. She was much less bubbly than usual, sometimes sending a cold yet emotionless glare toward Shar’khee… Nevertheless, the two females offered input on the design and applied help where they could, eventually creating the final piece of equipment.
Tracy commented on its looks, apparently drawing inspiration from the Leviathan itself, as she believed it to be like that of a ‘Sea Dragon’s.’ The maw-covering portion held two cylindrical canisters on the adjacent sides, the bottom portion being capable of distention, so that the user’s mouth may open somewhat. Its motion created what the female star-sent believed to be ‘the coolest teeth design on a mask’ she’d ever seen with how the separation formed alternating triangles.
The monster-like appearance was furthered by her own frills and horns that peeked out from behind the mask. That was not even mentioning the see-through visor that formed a malicious glare of sharp brows. The paladin looked through a hand-held mirror, finding it difficult to disagree with the look. She could imagine the horror on a fisherwoman’s face as such a terrifying creature approached from the depths.
And yet, despite its nightmarish visage, it was apparel designed to save lives, not take them—much unlike the unassuming metal rods that spewed fire with a mere flick of a lever. Curious indeed. The star-sents were seemingly never out of surprises. They even spoke of grand robots and firearms larger than Shar’khee herself as possible future projects.
Only time could tell what machinations of alloy would be birthed from their hands.
- - - - -
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2024.06.09 14:47 Enclaveboi4ever Nature of the Protectors: chapter 2 a new species and enemy
 | Nature of the protectors: chapter 2 a new species and enemy submitted by Enclaveboi4ever to NatureofPredators [link] [comments] Please login [•••••] Thank you you can now proceed Memory transcription subject: Joshua Deen human explorer Date: [changing to DSCS time) March 20th 3090 .. … ….. …… ……. “What the fuck….” I quickly said as I looked at the many dead bodies.. many of them had their heads ripped off and bellies ripped open, as well as what I presumed to be blood almost everywhere…. “I should turn my helmet back on, command needs to see this….” I say out loud as I quickly press a button on my CHP, my helmet quickly begins to assemble itself around my head as I continue to walk. Eventually, I reached some sort of elevator, as I stepped to go over to it I quickly heard something crack underneath my feet… It was a corpse it was already mangled and ripped apart “Whoever did this is fucking sick….” “Deen what are you seeing right now sounds like you just discovered a murder or something” I quickly heard the chief explorer say, I quickly opened up my CHP as I hit record. “What the actual fuck… what could have done this…” I hear the chief say as I also hear the grabbing of a bucket and him puking… “This is sickening whoever and whomever did this must be captured. Deen find the person or thing that made the broadcast we need to help them as quickly as we can.” The chief quickly says into the coms, “Use caution they don't know who or what is in here if it attacks you it's a threat” I quickly say to myself as I press one of the buttons on the elevator it will immediately open. Again I almost puked at the horrendous site of multiple corpses in the elevator mangled and beyond recognition… I slowly stepped inside, as I stepped inside I pulled up my CHP once more and immediately hacked into the station. As I looked through the channels I didn't know what any of them meant since they were in a language I didn't understand. I shrugged as I didn't want to waste any more time but I had to quickly translate it so I could understand what they said as well as what I should look through, one by one the channels began to translate itself suddenly as well as a small message came up on the small screen of the CHP ‘sorry for the inconvenience there was an update for the auto translator' I quickly sigh relief thankful that I didn't have to translate every letter and syllable manually. “Thank God I thought I would have to translate every single thing myself!” I quickly said out loud as I looked through the channels, as I scrolled down I found what I presumed to be a recording of a camera… I proceeded to press it as the video began to play, I saw multiple aliens walking through the hallway and talking to each other but not a second later something blasted through the air vents… almost immediately large reptilian creatures crawled out of them as they quickly began to shoot at the non-hostile aliens.. it was a complete bloodbath I quickly pause the video as the screams lit up in my mind almost reminding me of the first few days of the Ito AI war… “Whatever those things are, we need to find out why they are attacking this station and who they are and what…feel like I said that a moment ago….” I quickly say to myself for a moment as I scratch behind my helmet, I sigh to myself as I lift my hand to one of the buttons and press the last floor. The doors slowly closed on me, I quickly took a deep breath for a few moments before letting it out. The elevator slowly went down the elevator shaft, I suddenly heard shouts coming from the bottom floor…. “THEY CAN'T HIDE BEHIND THAT DOOR FOREVER!” I quickly heard coming from the bottom floor, I proceeded to then pull my dark matter rifle from my back as I turned the power to 50%. I pulled up my CHP and quickly turned on the auto tracker, as the elevator hit the ground floor I quickly kicked the doors open completely breaking them as I used one of my hands to fully bend the metal out of my way. “Huh!? Did y'all hear that?” I quickly heard one of the creatures say as I slowly left the elevator and went into the darkness of the room, “It is probably coming from the air vents, probably one of ours trying to sneak up on the prey” I heard another one say. Without hesitation, I slowly went behind one of them as I put the barrel of my gun against their head. “Huh, what th-” Before it could finish its word I quickly shot it in the back of the head, its body turning into a skeleton before turning into glowing purple dust… the bolt of dark matter quickly alerted the other creatures but before they could react I quickly ran out one of them as I smash the whole body against the wall painting it crimson…. “WHAT IS THAT THING!?” I quickly heard one of the creatures yell at me as I felt multiple bolts of laser fire and kinetic hits against my armor… I proceeded to aim my rifle at one of them as I used my left hand to turn the rifle on to burst fire, their rounds continued to hit against my armor as the bolts of laser fire just bounced off in random erections off my armor. I held down the trigger for only 3 seconds as three bursts of small dark matter fire ripped through one of them turning it into a skeleton and then into glowing purple dust, I quickly looked at the last three as I pulled out the dark matter knife and activated it the blade quickly came out in a matter of milliseconds. “AIM AT ITS HEAD!” I quickly heard one of them say as they all focused fire on the visor of my armor again they weren't even making any scratches or dents but I could barely see from the amount of hits I was taking on my visor, I quickly sprinted at one of them as I drove the dark matter knife completely through its chest as I let him fall to the floor at the knife completely slashed through him like butter… let me look at the other two as I grab the one on the left and crushed his head instantly blood splattering on the floor as I grabbed the arm of the beast and threw it at the other creature, it quickly threw him against the wall as I slowly walked over to it. “surrender…” I quickly said to the creature as it continued to fire at me with a small pistol around quickly bounced off my armor as I grabbed the weapon and smashed it without hesitation. The creature let go of the now broken weapon as it would lift its hands behind his head as it surrendered… I proceeded to pull out some handcuffs as I grabbed both of its hands as I then put them around its hands. I quickly threw It to The ground as I went over to the door, “a large door. What kind of defense is that? Why not have some plasma turrets or something….” I said out loud as I punched through the metal almost instantly as I used my other hand to open it… my eyes quickly opened as I saw three sheep-like creatures in front of me… (Hello everybody I hope you guys like the chapter I've currently been trying to work on my grammar I keep using as and i's -mainly because I don't know what else to use- but I hope you like the chapter and the next one will probably come out on Tuesday or something have a great day!) Chapter one: https://www.reddit.com/NatureofPredators/s/LceqF4nBz1 Intro: https://www.reddit.com/NatureofPredators/s/QLGSeIxnWO (Also sorry for the cliffhanger and bad grammar) |
2024.06.09 14:43 BiasMushroom Destination; Wriss (A NoP Fic Ch 70) Part 19
Nature of Humanity Ch 70
Destination; Wriss Part 19
A Fanfic of u/SpacePaladin15’s work “The Nature of Predators.” Thank you for the story!
___
Excerpt from Morvim Charter Spy Crevan’s log, recovered from a Betterment facility on Wriss,
Journal Date: T.S.T. November 5th, 2136
Father believes that turning my notes into something more of a confessional might help deal with my night terrors without appearing weak in front of the crew. Last night’s were some of the worst I have ever had. It started out with how they all do. I wear the guise of a true red-blooded Auditor, and find some unwitting sap to feed to the Dominion’s growing paranoia and execute them. Their brains pour out of their head like water. Then the call comes in. A suspected defect harboring malformed Arxur and prey.
The home looks like every single one approved of by the Dominion. The muffled screams coming from the gagged and bagged barely even register. It takes me no time to find the trap door. Even less to pry it open and rip my own son out of his only shelter. Wriss damn me, I feel nothing, breaking his neck just like every other malformed I’ve found.
I hear scampering in the hole. I pull out Elva, Wiesera and don’t even blink as I throw them to the Dominion raiders accompanying me. The sounds of their screams mean nothing as I continue my search. Rivera, Caulnek, and Barmlin are hiding in a closet. I don’t even bother opening the door. Just fire my sidearm through it.
When I exit the house I pull the bags off and execute my father. Then the two I just roped into this. Followed shortly thereafter by Lesh and Mico. I save my wife for last. The Wriss-damned Prophet descendant himself praises me and tells me to kill the final traitor. I put the gun to my own temple and pull the trigger. I never have enough rounds for myself too.
I don’t feel better writing this down.
We have had a full shift rotation without any serious problems. Most likely the Venlil’s natural desire to be friendly with everyone in their herd is going to cause an issue with Lesh most likely and Mico and Ishviel as close seconds. I am hesitant to try and keep those two away as they at least try to be social, but Lesh is actively lashing out.
It started with the ‘movie’ night Caulnek had. Father and Hrallak happily watched the ‘for fun media’ and Ishviel tried his best, but human entertainment was lost on him. Lesh found the entire idea to be a waste of time and chose to remain alone until his bridge shift arose.
From there, Lesh refused to communicate with anything more complex than a grunt to his shift partner Hrallak. The girl has enough problems as is. We don’t need Lesh causing more stress for her. We may also have a problem with Rivera who is either pushing Lesh into having a meltdown or accept that the changes we are experiencing are, in fact, good. Whenever Lesh goes to have a meal the eccentric Venlil isn’t that far behind him.
Turns out those broad flat teeth actually do a good job of breaking bones to get to the marrow, which he isn’t interested in. So they have a sort of standoff mutual existence going on where Rivera gets Lesh’s bones and Lesh takes advantage of Rivera’s teeth in place of putting the effort in himself. I can’t tell if the stillness that comes over him is from holding back the rage of listening to that Venlil yap or if he actually enjoys the noise.
Hrallak has been getting trained by Dr. Wiesera, who has high hopes for her. I’ve not had a chance to speak to her about training more Doctors for the colony of runaways we are trying to make, but I should make that a priority. Better to plan for a future we don’t have than to outlive your plans.
Approximately [twelve days] to Wriss. No other events of note to add.
~~~
Memory transcription subject: Crevan, Morvim Charter Soldier
Date [standardized human time]: November 5th, 2136
Ugh. Today’s the day. No time to walk or even have something to eat. Lesh should be ending his shift and hopefully that will leave him tired enough to be reasonable. What a great way to start the day. Going into a disciplinary meeting with probably the strongest Arxur on the ship first thing after waking up. One that doesn’t have to fear what the dominion would do to him if he killed me.
He wasn’t difficult to find. He, of course, beelined straight for his room, “It’s a nice luxury, isn’t it? Not being packed into this glorified meat carrier with a hundred irritable Arxur. Walk with me.”
He hissed in frustration but turned as ordered. I wasn’t expecting a miracle. Just to get him to at least try and loosen up a bit, “You are in this for revenge. As far as I can tell, you are the only one of us in this for revenge. I have a proposition for you.”
His reply came forth like a saw trying to cut through metal, but the blade was on backwards, “Yes sir?”
I led him into the cattle pen that was turned into a makeshift freezer. The cold air seemed to affect us both equally, as we shivered a bit, “I’ve been thinking about the Dominion… the Federation… and whatever stupid alliance Humanity has managed to pull out of its ass…”
The pause I inserted into my preplanned speech allowed me enough time to judge his reaction on each of our enemies as well as to ponder on Humanity and where I was going with this. He hesitantly took the bait, “And what have you concluded.”
“The Federation can’t destroy the Dominion and the Dominion won’t be able to fight on two fronts. Humanity knows war. They’ve lived and breathed it for centuries, we’ve only fought a one-sided genocide. The Dominion and the Federation won’t be able to compete with humanity the second they get their feet under them. The bombing of Earth hasn’t slowed them. It’s lit a fire under their ass.”
I had a hunch that Lesh wasn’t some roided up raider. I could see the gears turning in his head, “With Isif protecting Earth… The Federation can’t finish the job and the Dominion won’t attack them to bring them in line… Humanity has already started producing Prey- Alien? FUCK it. Prey fighters that can actually fight and sit in the same room as us without shitting themselves to death…”
“They have to take out the Federation first. No doubts about it. But they aren’t going to let the Dominion just continue to eat Sapients. That is going to result in the Dominion doing the stupidest thing possible and attacking an Earth and its allies that have been gearing up for real war since the second the bombs started falling. Remember. The ONLY reason we took the cradle is because Isif sacrificed hundreds of ships in orbit. We didn’t take the ground. We only took space which they came back and took. Every engagement on the ground resulted in fifteen and a half dead raiders to every human.”
The carnage of that debacle brought a happy jilt to his body language, “So, the only way this will ever really end is with both the Federation and Dominion falling.”
“And with what I know of the humans, neither side will be allowed to go without punishment. That is assuming there's enough of them left over to be tried for their crimes.”
“I like that thought but why bring this up to me.”
“Because all that will be left of us will be this tiny colony when this is over. It will be the only thing Humanity can say is untainted enough to be worthy of not being baptized in holy antimatter. I need- No. We need people that can help lead us. The remnants of the Morvim Charter NEED you. Need your strength, your guile, your… sociableness and sense of justice. I am asking you to join us proper. To help us forge a path into the future. Fight not just for your justice but live to build a better world.”
I felt fear as rage rushed across his face, and hope as it softened. He huffed and spat and paced around the room. It felt like the punch he launched into the steel wall reverberated through the whole ship. The panel fell off as he pulled his fist from the dent he made. He didn’t ask for permission to leave as he stormed away. At least I’m alive… Going to put him down as a maybe.
Unfortunately, it would seem Caulnek and Rivera picked now as the perfect time to also talk to Lesh. Rivera was sort of bouncing on the spot as Lesh growled and thumped his tail angrily, “Lesh! Guess what I remembered I found back on earth!”
The well-built Venlil rolled his eyes and smacked Rivera on the back of the head, “Rivera stole a copy of a Human military strategy game. One famed for simulating actual human battles. It’s set from military conflicts from their first World War to the last war before their first contact. Ishviel was hoping for more insights on Human strategies, and we thought it would be something that would pique your interest. You are welcome to come or not. Just don’t bring that shitty attitude you’ve been carrying around. We are trying to enjoy these few days before landing in paradise.”
My jaw nearly hit the floor as what I could only describe as a Lesh gently lifted his tail in intrigue, “What is this… game?”
Caulnek scratched his chin for a moment before snapping, “It’s a squad-based attack vs defense game with one or two players. One person sets up their defense and the attacker has to go in blind and deal with it. It’s actually a pretty clever system and I have no doubt the owner is going to peel Rivera’s hide off when we get back to Earth.”
The kleptomaniac slowly realized what Caulnek said, “Yeah it’s pretty fuuuuuu- huh?! Wait! Do you really think Andrew would do that?!”
Caulnek turned and walked off as Lesh followed, “Hrm… It sounds like it might be an effective way to mentally prepare for our own assault.”
Rivera tucked his tail and practically begged for an answer, “Guys… seriously! Am I going to be in danger?! Guys!”
Caulnek whipped his tail excitedly, “At the worst it will be a nice distraction. The game only has Human units in it, but it actually has a stat editor. I think I can bypass its normal restrictions and program in stats similar to what we can expect our enemy to have, but let’s play the game first. Get a feel for the rules and see if it's even worth the effort.”
With Lesh calmed down I made the choice to give him a little more time before I decided to see what this game was. I made my way to the bridge. Oddly enough I walked past Mico sitting in an open closet on my way there, “Mico? What are you doing? Shouldn’t you be resting?”
The sleek Arxur didn’t turn to face me, “I am in a sense resting right now. The Humans call it meditation. I received a book on it. So far… I think it's forcing me to come to terms with some stuff.”
I leaned against the door frame, “Is it better than sleeping?”
There was a long bit of silence before Mico brought his paws to his face and messaged his eyes, “No. But… it’s not really a replacement for sleeping.” He picked up a nearby book and opened it, “Meditation can give you a sense of calm, peace and balance that can benefit your emotional well-being and your overall health. You also can use it to relax and cope with stress by focusing on something that calms you. Meditation can help you learn to stay centered and keep inner peace.” He set the book back down, “Basically, I think it will help me remain calm. Despite being in the least crowded ship I have ever been on… It feels more claustrophobic than ever. The Prey- our companions are… I have no other word to describe it but intense. It feels like my head is going to pop when I am in a room with them. This meditation is helping me I think. Since I started this before we left… It’s been easier.”
I rapped my knuckles on the door frame, “If it works get Lesh to do it too. The thug is going to blow a gasket if he can’t calm down soon.”
Mico let out a slight chuckle, “You don’t have to tell me that. I just got off a shift with him, and he wouldn’t shut up about bringing the prey and defectives along. I think he’s actually scared they are going to get hurt.”
I plodded off to let Mico resume his meditation. His words about Lesh weren’t exactly anything I didn’t know. That Arxur cares more than any other I’ve met. He’s been hurt before by that care.
The bridge door opened to reveal my father in his command chair with Elva lounging at the pilot’s seat. The latter of which tried and failed to perk her floppy ears up with concern, “Did something happen? Shouldn’t you be watching over the rest of them? Make sure no one… flips their shit?”
I scoffed, “Yeah… I don’t think those paranoia plans will be necessary. Lesh is acting out because he has grown attached to all of you. Us too. Mico is taking up ‘meditation’ to calm himself and better deal with everything. Hrallak is just happy to be free even if she ends up dead, and Ishviel… well, he’s already a runt. Caulnek and Rivera could easily take him, let alone together and even then, he seems to be happy that he doesn’t have to prove his strength to them to get respect. The lot of them can go unsupervised… for a bit.”
Elva leaned back in her chair and relaxed, “Good. Hopefully, this is a sign of things going smoothly. My guts have been in a knot since we left.”
Ivan barked out a laugh, “I think that's been the case for all of us. I’ve never liked returning to Wriss to begin with, but before I never had to worry about fighting the entire damned planet. This is… Terrifying.”
I nodded my head in understanding, “We are about to either do the dumbest thing ever or kickstart the end of the Dominion.”
Elva asked, “Is it true we aren’t saving the entirety of the Morvim Charter Remnants?”
My father sighed, “Yes. A lot of them have to remain behind to cover our escape. They also need to stay behind to fan the fires we leave. The Dominion is going to appear weak so it's the best recruiting drive they will ever have.”
Elva closed her eyes and leaned back, “Alright then. We get there. Secure a port. Plan our attack, take the ship and get the hell out of there… Far too much can go wrong with this.”
I couldn’t help but nod my head, “On the bright side at least you guys have a get out of jail free card. If we get caught… well, it’s not going to be but a few moments of extreme heat for us.”
My second in command let out a long exasperated sound, “Uuuwweeeeeegh… Can you leave now? I was having such a nice time sitting here bored out of my mind before you showed up. Go check up on the guys. See how Hrallak’s medical lessons are going or something.”
I bowed and left the bridge. The infirmary our ship had wasn’t quite suited to actually saving lives. At least that was the case before Humanity got their hands on it. Wiesera and Elva had been delighted to go through all the gadgets and gizmos the ‘Doctors Without Borders’ had given them. Apparently, mobile medical hospitals specialized for ease of movement and treatment in war torn areas is something of a specialty of theirs.
Sadly, as I entered the actual infirmary only a small fraction of the medical devices were even set up. Wiesera and Hrallak were standing over a table with a startling realistic headless torso of an Arxur laying on it with its chest pried open.
The Zurulian picked up a latex heart, “As you can see here, the Arxur heart is a three-chamber heart. This implies that the Arxur were at one point coldblooded, like other reptiles. I imagine given another few hundred generations we might see Arxur with four-chambered hearts.”
Hrallak twisted her head to the side confused, “Why would we get four-chambered hearts?”
“Efficiency. Four chambered hearts can keep deoxygenated blood from mixing with oxygenated blood. This way the only blood entering the lungs is completely ready to pick up Oxygen and all the blood going to muscles is carrying its maximum capacity for oxygen. As short sprint, ambush predators you don’t need a strong supply of oxygen to hit your target, but if the chase were to carry on, animals with four chambers can better supply oxygen to their muscles…”
Hrallak bobbed her head in understanding, “And maintain power for longer…”
“Actually, we are already seeing medical reports of Arxur with a harmless heart defect giving them four chambers.” To my surprise, both ladies didn’t jump at my sudden interjection. It seemed they noticed my arrival, “The Prophet-descendants were debating on scanning people’s hearts and purging those with the defects… until one of the descendants was found to have the defect too and now its ‘proof of superior genetics’ or some bullshit.”
The medic in training set a paw on her chest, “Makes sense. I wonder if I have it too.”
Wiesera looked at the latex heart in her hands, “It wouldn’t hurt to set up the portable echocardiogram. It wouldn’t hurt to make sure we know what biology everyone has… actually, Crevan. Let the Arxur crew know we are about to do some health check-ups on everyone. I want to know what everyone’s hearts look like in the event I have to fix them. Now Hrallak see here- Crevan! What are you waiting for! We do not have forever here! Move it!”
I bowed and headed for the Cafeteria. It would seem Wiesera is warming up to her role as lead medic.
___/\___
Crevan seems to not being doing too hot… actually most of the crew is on edge. Lizard boi does his rounds and checks on the crew. It seems like everyone is settling in for the long ride to Wriss. Hopefully things go smoothly when they get there.
Welp! I got laid off! So I’m waiting a month to see if my job opens back up or if I am going to be working somewhere else. Now that sounds like I have time to write but my job actually kept my Autism/ADHD in check as the only thing I could do on break was write so hopefully I can keep up with my chapters and get Part 2 of the devil you know done. I almost had it done but I hated the whole chapter and have to rewrite it.
Special thanks to u/JulianSkies and u/callmefishy11 for proofreading! Seriously it felt like my eyes were melting out of my skull and your feedback was everything I needed!
___/\___
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Destination; Wriss Part 19
A Fanfic of u/SpacePaladin15’s work “The Nature of Predators.” Thank you for the story!
___
Excerpt from Morvim Charter Spy Crevan’s log, recovered from a Betterment facility on Wriss,
Journal Date: T.S.T. November 5th, 2136
Father believes that turning my notes into something more of a confessional might help deal with my night terrors without appearing weak in front of the crew. Last night’s were some of the worst I have ever had. It started out with how they all do. I wear the guise of a true red-blooded Auditor, and find some unwitting sap to feed to the Dominion’s growing paranoia and execute them. Their brains pour out of their head like water. Then the call comes in. A suspected defect harboring malformed Arxur and prey.
The home looks like every single one approved of by the Dominion. The muffled screams coming from the gagged and bagged barely even register. It takes me no time to find the trap door. Even less to pry it open and rip my own son out of his only shelter. Wriss damn me, I feel nothing, breaking his neck just like every other malformed I’ve found.
I hear scampering in the hole. I pull out Elva, Wiesera and don’t even blink as I throw them to the Dominion raiders accompanying me. The sounds of their screams mean nothing as I continue my search. Rivera, Caulnek, and Barmlin are hiding in a closet. I don’t even bother opening the door. Just fire my sidearm through it.
When I exit the house I pull the bags off and execute my father. Then the two I just roped into this. Followed shortly thereafter by Lesh and Mico. I save my wife for last. The Wriss-damned Prophet descendant himself praises me and tells me to kill the final traitor. I put the gun to my own temple and pull the trigger. I never have enough rounds for myself too.
I don’t feel better writing this down.
We have had a full shift rotation without any serious problems. Most likely the Venlil’s natural desire to be friendly with everyone in their herd is going to cause an issue with Lesh most likely and Mico and Ishviel as close seconds. I am hesitant to try and keep those two away as they at least try to be social, but Lesh is actively lashing out.
It started with the ‘movie’ night Caulnek had. Father and Hrallak happily watched the ‘for fun media’ and Ishviel tried his best, but human entertainment was lost on him. Lesh found the entire idea to be a waste of time and chose to remain alone until his bridge shift arose.
From there, Lesh refused to communicate with anything more complex than a grunt to his shift partner Hrallak. The girl has enough problems as is. We don’t need Lesh causing more stress for her. We may also have a problem with Rivera who is either pushing Lesh into having a meltdown or accept that the changes we are experiencing are, in fact, good. Whenever Lesh goes to have a meal the eccentric Venlil isn’t that far behind him.
Turns out those broad flat teeth actually do a good job of breaking bones to get to the marrow, which he isn’t interested in. So they have a sort of standoff mutual existence going on where Rivera gets Lesh’s bones and Lesh takes advantage of Rivera’s teeth in place of putting the effort in himself. I can’t tell if the stillness that comes over him is from holding back the rage of listening to that Venlil yap or if he actually enjoys the noise.
Hrallak has been getting trained by Dr. Wiesera, who has high hopes for her. I’ve not had a chance to speak to her about training more Doctors for the colony of runaways we are trying to make, but I should make that a priority. Better to plan for a future we don’t have than to outlive your plans.
Approximately [twelve days] to Wriss. No other events of note to add.
~~~
Memory transcription subject: Crevan, Morvim Charter Soldier
Date [standardized human time]: November 5th, 2136
Ugh. Today’s the day. No time to walk or even have something to eat. Lesh should be ending his shift and hopefully that will leave him tired enough to be reasonable. What a great way to start the day. Going into a disciplinary meeting with probably the strongest Arxur on the ship first thing after waking up. One that doesn’t have to fear what the dominion would do to him if he killed me.
He wasn’t difficult to find. He, of course, beelined straight for his room, “It’s a nice luxury, isn’t it? Not being packed into this glorified meat carrier with a hundred irritable Arxur. Walk with me.”
He hissed in frustration but turned as ordered. I wasn’t expecting a miracle. Just to get him to at least try and loosen up a bit, “You are in this for revenge. As far as I can tell, you are the only one of us in this for revenge. I have a proposition for you.”
His reply came forth like a saw trying to cut through metal, but the blade was on backwards, “Yes sir?”
I led him into the cattle pen that was turned into a makeshift freezer. The cold air seemed to affect us both equally, as we shivered a bit, “I’ve been thinking about the Dominion… the Federation… and whatever stupid alliance Humanity has managed to pull out of its ass…”
The pause I inserted into my preplanned speech allowed me enough time to judge his reaction on each of our enemies as well as to ponder on Humanity and where I was going with this. He hesitantly took the bait, “And what have you concluded.”
“The Federation can’t destroy the Dominion and the Dominion won’t be able to fight on two fronts. Humanity knows war. They’ve lived and breathed it for centuries, we’ve only fought a one-sided genocide. The Dominion and the Federation won’t be able to compete with humanity the second they get their feet under them. The bombing of Earth hasn’t slowed them. It’s lit a fire under their ass.”
I had a hunch that Lesh wasn’t some roided up raider. I could see the gears turning in his head, “With Isif protecting Earth… The Federation can’t finish the job and the Dominion won’t attack them to bring them in line… Humanity has already started producing Prey- Alien? FUCK it. Prey fighters that can actually fight and sit in the same room as us without shitting themselves to death…”
“They have to take out the Federation first. No doubts about it. But they aren’t going to let the Dominion just continue to eat Sapients. That is going to result in the Dominion doing the stupidest thing possible and attacking an Earth and its allies that have been gearing up for real war since the second the bombs started falling. Remember. The ONLY reason we took the cradle is because Isif sacrificed hundreds of ships in orbit. We didn’t take the ground. We only took space which they came back and took. Every engagement on the ground resulted in fifteen and a half dead raiders to every human.”
The carnage of that debacle brought a happy jilt to his body language, “So, the only way this will ever really end is with both the Federation and Dominion falling.”
“And with what I know of the humans, neither side will be allowed to go without punishment. That is assuming there's enough of them left over to be tried for their crimes.”
“I like that thought but why bring this up to me.”
“Because all that will be left of us will be this tiny colony when this is over. It will be the only thing Humanity can say is untainted enough to be worthy of not being baptized in holy antimatter. I need- No. We need people that can help lead us. The remnants of the Morvim Charter NEED you. Need your strength, your guile, your… sociableness and sense of justice. I am asking you to join us proper. To help us forge a path into the future. Fight not just for your justice but live to build a better world.”
I felt fear as rage rushed across his face, and hope as it softened. He huffed and spat and paced around the room. It felt like the punch he launched into the steel wall reverberated through the whole ship. The panel fell off as he pulled his fist from the dent he made. He didn’t ask for permission to leave as he stormed away. At least I’m alive… Going to put him down as a maybe.
Unfortunately, it would seem Caulnek and Rivera picked now as the perfect time to also talk to Lesh. Rivera was sort of bouncing on the spot as Lesh growled and thumped his tail angrily, “Lesh! Guess what I remembered I found back on earth!”
The well-built Venlil rolled his eyes and smacked Rivera on the back of the head, “Rivera stole a copy of a Human military strategy game. One famed for simulating actual human battles. It’s set from military conflicts from their first World War to the last war before their first contact. Ishviel was hoping for more insights on Human strategies, and we thought it would be something that would pique your interest. You are welcome to come or not. Just don’t bring that shitty attitude you’ve been carrying around. We are trying to enjoy these few days before landing in paradise.”
My jaw nearly hit the floor as what I could only describe as a Lesh gently lifted his tail in intrigue, “What is this… game?”
Caulnek scratched his chin for a moment before snapping, “It’s a squad-based attack vs defense game with one or two players. One person sets up their defense and the attacker has to go in blind and deal with it. It’s actually a pretty clever system and I have no doubt the owner is going to peel Rivera’s hide off when we get back to Earth.”
The kleptomaniac slowly realized what Caulnek said, “Yeah it’s pretty fuuuuuu- huh?! Wait! Do you really think Andrew would do that?!”
Caulnek turned and walked off as Lesh followed, “Hrm… It sounds like it might be an effective way to mentally prepare for our own assault.”
Rivera tucked his tail and practically begged for an answer, “Guys… seriously! Am I going to be in danger?! Guys!”
Caulnek whipped his tail excitedly, “At the worst it will be a nice distraction. The game only has Human units in it, but it actually has a stat editor. I think I can bypass its normal restrictions and program in stats similar to what we can expect our enemy to have, but let’s play the game first. Get a feel for the rules and see if it's even worth the effort.”
With Lesh calmed down I made the choice to give him a little more time before I decided to see what this game was. I made my way to the bridge. Oddly enough I walked past Mico sitting in an open closet on my way there, “Mico? What are you doing? Shouldn’t you be resting?”
The sleek Arxur didn’t turn to face me, “I am in a sense resting right now. The Humans call it meditation. I received a book on it. So far… I think it's forcing me to come to terms with some stuff.”
I leaned against the door frame, “Is it better than sleeping?”
There was a long bit of silence before Mico brought his paws to his face and messaged his eyes, “No. But… it’s not really a replacement for sleeping.” He picked up a nearby book and opened it, “Meditation can give you a sense of calm, peace and balance that can benefit your emotional well-being and your overall health. You also can use it to relax and cope with stress by focusing on something that calms you. Meditation can help you learn to stay centered and keep inner peace.” He set the book back down, “Basically, I think it will help me remain calm. Despite being in the least crowded ship I have ever been on… It feels more claustrophobic than ever. The Prey- our companions are… I have no other word to describe it but intense. It feels like my head is going to pop when I am in a room with them. This meditation is helping me I think. Since I started this before we left… It’s been easier.”
I rapped my knuckles on the door frame, “If it works get Lesh to do it too. The thug is going to blow a gasket if he can’t calm down soon.”
Mico let out a slight chuckle, “You don’t have to tell me that. I just got off a shift with him, and he wouldn’t shut up about bringing the prey and defectives along. I think he’s actually scared they are going to get hurt.”
I plodded off to let Mico resume his meditation. His words about Lesh weren’t exactly anything I didn’t know. That Arxur cares more than any other I’ve met. He’s been hurt before by that care.
The bridge door opened to reveal my father in his command chair with Elva lounging at the pilot’s seat. The latter of which tried and failed to perk her floppy ears up with concern, “Did something happen? Shouldn’t you be watching over the rest of them? Make sure no one… flips their shit?”
I scoffed, “Yeah… I don’t think those paranoia plans will be necessary. Lesh is acting out because he has grown attached to all of you. Us too. Mico is taking up ‘meditation’ to calm himself and better deal with everything. Hrallak is just happy to be free even if she ends up dead, and Ishviel… well, he’s already a runt. Caulnek and Rivera could easily take him, let alone together and even then, he seems to be happy that he doesn’t have to prove his strength to them to get respect. The lot of them can go unsupervised… for a bit.”
Elva leaned back in her chair and relaxed, “Good. Hopefully, this is a sign of things going smoothly. My guts have been in a knot since we left.”
Ivan barked out a laugh, “I think that's been the case for all of us. I’ve never liked returning to Wriss to begin with, but before I never had to worry about fighting the entire damned planet. This is… Terrifying.”
I nodded my head in understanding, “We are about to either do the dumbest thing ever or kickstart the end of the Dominion.”
Elva asked, “Is it true we aren’t saving the entirety of the Morvim Charter Remnants?”
My father sighed, “Yes. A lot of them have to remain behind to cover our escape. They also need to stay behind to fan the fires we leave. The Dominion is going to appear weak so it's the best recruiting drive they will ever have.”
Elva closed her eyes and leaned back, “Alright then. We get there. Secure a port. Plan our attack, take the ship and get the hell out of there… Far too much can go wrong with this.”
I couldn’t help but nod my head, “On the bright side at least you guys have a get out of jail free card. If we get caught… well, it’s not going to be but a few moments of extreme heat for us.”
My second in command let out a long exasperated sound, “Uuuwweeeeeegh… Can you leave now? I was having such a nice time sitting here bored out of my mind before you showed up. Go check up on the guys. See how Hrallak’s medical lessons are going or something.”
I bowed and left the bridge. The infirmary our ship had wasn’t quite suited to actually saving lives. At least that was the case before Humanity got their hands on it. Wiesera and Elva had been delighted to go through all the gadgets and gizmos the ‘Doctors Without Borders’ had given them. Apparently, mobile medical hospitals specialized for ease of movement and treatment in war torn areas is something of a specialty of theirs.
Sadly, as I entered the actual infirmary only a small fraction of the medical devices were even set up. Wiesera and Hrallak were standing over a table with a startling realistic headless torso of an Arxur laying on it with its chest pried open.
The Zurulian picked up a latex heart, “As you can see here, the Arxur heart is a three-chamber heart. This implies that the Arxur were at one point coldblooded, like other reptiles. I imagine given another few hundred generations we might see Arxur with four-chambered hearts.”
Hrallak twisted her head to the side confused, “Why would we get four-chambered hearts?”
“Efficiency. Four chambered hearts can keep deoxygenated blood from mixing with oxygenated blood. This way the only blood entering the lungs is completely ready to pick up Oxygen and all the blood going to muscles is carrying its maximum capacity for oxygen. As short sprint, ambush predators you don’t need a strong supply of oxygen to hit your target, but if the chase were to carry on, animals with four chambers can better supply oxygen to their muscles…”
Hrallak bobbed her head in understanding, “And maintain power for longer…”
“Actually, we are already seeing medical reports of Arxur with a harmless heart defect giving them four chambers.” To my surprise, both ladies didn’t jump at my sudden interjection. It seemed they noticed my arrival, “The Prophet-descendants were debating on scanning people’s hearts and purging those with the defects… until one of the descendants was found to have the defect too and now its ‘proof of superior genetics’ or some bullshit.”
The medic in training set a paw on her chest, “Makes sense. I wonder if I have it too.”
Wiesera looked at the latex heart in her hands, “It wouldn’t hurt to set up the portable echocardiogram. It wouldn’t hurt to make sure we know what biology everyone has… actually, Crevan. Let the Arxur crew know we are about to do some health check-ups on everyone. I want to know what everyone’s hearts look like in the event I have to fix them. Now Hrallak see here- Crevan! What are you waiting for! We do not have forever here! Move it!”
I bowed and headed for the Cafeteria. It would seem Wiesera is warming up to her role as lead medic.
___/\___
Crevan seems to not being doing too hot… actually most of the crew is on edge. Lizard boi does his rounds and checks on the crew. It seems like everyone is settling in for the long ride to Wriss. Hopefully things go smoothly when they get there.
Welp! I got laid off! So I’m waiting a month to see if my job opens back up or if I am going to be working somewhere else. Now that sounds like I have time to write but my job actually kept my Autism/ADHD in check as the only thing I could do on break was write so hopefully I can keep up with my chapters and get Part 2 of the devil you know done. I almost had it done but I hated the whole chapter and have to rewrite it.
Special thanks to u/JulianSkies and u/callmefishy11 for proofreading! Seriously it felt like my eyes were melting out of my skull and your feedback was everything I needed!
___/\___
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2024.06.09 13:46 ChequeRoot Demeter Fragrances - Mini Reviews
Demeter Fragrances makes inexpensive, unpretentious scents. Demeter is basically the “Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans” of fragrances.
While some have claimed their formulas vanish shortly after application, I find I get about two hours with their mini purse sprays, and significantly longer with their rollerball oil blends.
The only scents reviewed her are all from their mini purse spray lineup.
I had heard they were single-note products, but I find them layered. Simple layered; like a painting done in various shades of a similar hue, but layered nonetheless.
I haven’t actually tried blending them, or applying scents atop each other yet. I find they stand alone quite pleasantly.
I’ve had fun exploring their various fragrances.
Oh, a note on my ratings: 5/10 is neutral. A solid, wearable “meh.” I’ll wear it, but wouldn’t buy it again.
“Amber” — I personally find it similar to their “Ambergris.” It’s warm, honeyed, and bright. It’s a powdery amber, not a woody amber. 7/10
“Ambergris” — Warm, thickly sweet, animalistic, and musky. I found it too “sticky sweet” for me. 5/10
“Bonfire” — This smells like home! Hardwoods and conifers, smoke rising up from the campfire. This aroma is a cozy fire, rather than a towering inferno. 9/10
“Caribbean Sea” — Fruity-floral, lightly ozonic. A bright marine scent. I found it a bit synthetic (think laundry freshener). It’s not my fave. 4/10
“Dirt” — It literally smells like damp surface soil of a garden! Has a freshwater element as well. Not as deep as “Earthworm.” Great for those who love soil accords. 10/10
“Dust” — I find this quite lovely! Subtle, ozonic, cool and dry. It conjures up images of empty gothic manors, nights on sand under stars, and forgotten secrets 8/10
“Earthworm” — Dirt accord on steroids! Deep, earthy, damp, a hint of fungus. It smells like root cellar, and I -love!- it! 11/10
“Fireplace” — Smells like creosote and burning, rather mineral at the edges. This is definitely a polarizing fragrance. It’s a bit like if Zoologist’s “T-Rex” had a baby. It’s more organic than Imaginary Author’s “Cities on Fire.” I like it, but my family hates it. It’s a 7/10 for me…. 0/10 from my fam.
“Fresh Hay” — Sweetgrass, lightly honeyed sweetness, timothy hay. This was one of those “Ooooo 😍!” scents for me. It’s ’golden green’ for lack of better description. I love it! 10/10
“Frozen Pond” — Crisp, earthy. Maybe a of patchouli? I’m honestly not sure. I like it for the dirt accord! 9/10
“Gardenia” — Rich, heady, intoxicating! I’m not always a floral fan, but for realism this is spot on! 9/10
“Grass” — Smells just like the sweetgrass patches I hit when I cut the lawn! I love it! I wear it to bed for sweet(grass) dreams! 10/10
“Great Barrier Reef” — Marine, salty, drift wood, brightness. This is a beachy ocean scent that conjures up images of crystal water and warm sand. 7/10
“Honey” — Interesting because it’s not overly sweet. Animalistic, heady, beeswax and floral. A bit too linear to be a fave. I need to compare it to Zoologist’s “Bee” at some point. 6/10.
“Kelp” — A crushable green that opens spicy and settles down into a light marine scent. I was hoping for something deeper, murkier. 5/10
“Jasmine” — This is more a “one note” fragrance, and that’s okay. It smells just like the bushes outside a home I once had. Pungent, heady, and organic. 8/10, it’s almost too strong for me.
“Kitten Fur” — Photorealistic kitty scent? Nah. Sweet, fun, consequence-free happy scent? Yes! Powdery musk, fresh linen, warm and delicate. It captures the cuteness of kittens! 8/10
“Lava Rock” — This is strangely intoxicating. Musky, warm, leathery and exotic. It smells very familiar to another fragrance I enjoyed, but I’m drawing a complete blank on which. Something by Zoologist (not T-rex!). 9/10
“Log Cabin” — Oak moss, cedar, wine barrel oak notes. This is good, rustic, definitely reminisce of cabins and whole-wood furniture. Rather linear, but I like it. 7/10
“Magnolia” — A juicy, green floral. I don’t have much experience with the plant, so I can’t say how accurate it is. 5/10
“Mildew” — Touted as “The smell of first turning on your air conditioner.” I was expecting something more wet and dank. To me, this is green pepper. It’s spicy, warm; almost savory. Not something I want to wear at all, but to each their own. 1/10
“Musk #9”— A modern musk fragrance. A woody-fruit profile; lime, bergamot. Rather incense-like. Cool and dry, borderline oriental. A good evening scent. 6/10. I prefer heady and animalistic musks.
“Musk #15” — A classic musk fragrance. Powdery white musk. Fruity-floral top notes, rose at the middle, and base notes that come across like amber and tonka bean. 8/10
“New Leaf” — Spicy, green, like crushed herbs. Has an acidic element rather than sweet. A dry, “white wine” sort of green. Dries to something resembling patchouli (or apple). 5/10
“Paperback” — As it dries, it definitely gives off the scent of printer’s ink and binding paste. There’s a woody-vanilla paper scent too. 8/10
“Petrichor” — Mineral, fresh, sweet rain. Very nice! 9/10
“Puppy Breath” — Sweet, warm, a bit animalistic,and organic. It’s hard for me to describe the notes. Maybe floral? Maybe bubblegum? Definitely an aroma one wants to snuggle with! 9/10 (Personally, the scent reminds me of RSW airport in Fort Myers, FL).
“Rain” — Delicate, fresh water, aquatic, a mineral aspect as well. Rain is an easy-to-wear delight! 10/10
“Rice Paddy” — Rice wine, muddy water, oriental muskiness, mineral notes. It’s nice, pleasant, safe. I’d prefer it for a room fragrance than on my skin. 7/10
“Salt Air” — I’m not sure if I like this or not, it seems to wear different in various environments. Mineral, a bit of salt, and at times I get a citrus element. 5/10
“Snow” — Earthy, ozonic, aquatic and clean! It might not be photorealistic, but it beats out all those overdone “heavy evergreen and/or mint = snow” fragrances. 10/10
“Spacewalk” — This one amuses me, even if I don’t love it. It has an ozonic lift, and metallic element, melded under tropic sweetness. It reminds me a bit of sunscreen. 6/10
“Swimming Pool” — Cool, tropical, with a very faint hint of chlorine. Aquatic, and pleasant. There’s a linen aspect as well. Quite pleasant! 8/10
“Thunderstorm” — Mineral, petrichor, dry earth, vegetation, and rain. This definitely conveys the image it’s aiming for. I found it more “petrichor” than their offering of the same name, but both are good! 9/10
“Wet Garden” — Yes, please! Rain, a hint of sweet-pea flower. Green with floral and tannic elements. Refreshing! It gets more floral as it dries, but stays green and delicate. 8/10
submitted by ChequeRoot to fragrance [link] [comments]
While some have claimed their formulas vanish shortly after application, I find I get about two hours with their mini purse sprays, and significantly longer with their rollerball oil blends.
The only scents reviewed her are all from their mini purse spray lineup.
I had heard they were single-note products, but I find them layered. Simple layered; like a painting done in various shades of a similar hue, but layered nonetheless.
I haven’t actually tried blending them, or applying scents atop each other yet. I find they stand alone quite pleasantly.
I’ve had fun exploring their various fragrances.
Oh, a note on my ratings: 5/10 is neutral. A solid, wearable “meh.” I’ll wear it, but wouldn’t buy it again.
“Ambergris” — Warm, thickly sweet, animalistic, and musky. I found it too “sticky sweet” for me. 5/10
“Bonfire” — This smells like home! Hardwoods and conifers, smoke rising up from the campfire. This aroma is a cozy fire, rather than a towering inferno. 9/10
“Caribbean Sea” — Fruity-floral, lightly ozonic. A bright marine scent. I found it a bit synthetic (think laundry freshener). It’s not my fave. 4/10
“Dirt” — It literally smells like damp surface soil of a garden! Has a freshwater element as well. Not as deep as “Earthworm.” Great for those who love soil accords. 10/10
“Dust” — I find this quite lovely! Subtle, ozonic, cool and dry. It conjures up images of empty gothic manors, nights on sand under stars, and forgotten secrets 8/10
“Earthworm” — Dirt accord on steroids! Deep, earthy, damp, a hint of fungus. It smells like root cellar, and I -love!- it! 11/10
“Fireplace” — Smells like creosote and burning, rather mineral at the edges. This is definitely a polarizing fragrance. It’s a bit like if Zoologist’s “T-Rex” had a baby. It’s more organic than Imaginary Author’s “Cities on Fire.” I like it, but my family hates it. It’s a 7/10 for me…. 0/10 from my fam.
“Fresh Hay” — Sweetgrass, lightly honeyed sweetness, timothy hay. This was one of those “Ooooo 😍!” scents for me. It’s ’golden green’ for lack of better description. I love it! 10/10
“Frozen Pond” — Crisp, earthy. Maybe a of patchouli? I’m honestly not sure. I like it for the dirt accord! 9/10
“Gardenia” — Rich, heady, intoxicating! I’m not always a floral fan, but for realism this is spot on! 9/10
“Grass” — Smells just like the sweetgrass patches I hit when I cut the lawn! I love it! I wear it to bed for sweet(grass) dreams! 10/10
“Great Barrier Reef” — Marine, salty, drift wood, brightness. This is a beachy ocean scent that conjures up images of crystal water and warm sand. 7/10
“Honey” — Interesting because it’s not overly sweet. Animalistic, heady, beeswax and floral. A bit too linear to be a fave. I need to compare it to Zoologist’s “Bee” at some point. 6/10.
“Kelp” — A crushable green that opens spicy and settles down into a light marine scent. I was hoping for something deeper, murkier. 5/10
“Jasmine” — This is more a “one note” fragrance, and that’s okay. It smells just like the bushes outside a home I once had. Pungent, heady, and organic. 8/10, it’s almost too strong for me.
“Kitten Fur” — Photorealistic kitty scent? Nah. Sweet, fun, consequence-free happy scent? Yes! Powdery musk, fresh linen, warm and delicate. It captures the cuteness of kittens! 8/10
“Lava Rock” — This is strangely intoxicating. Musky, warm, leathery and exotic. It smells very familiar to another fragrance I enjoyed, but I’m drawing a complete blank on which. Something by Zoologist (not T-rex!). 9/10
“Log Cabin” — Oak moss, cedar, wine barrel oak notes. This is good, rustic, definitely reminisce of cabins and whole-wood furniture. Rather linear, but I like it. 7/10
“Magnolia” — A juicy, green floral. I don’t have much experience with the plant, so I can’t say how accurate it is. 5/10
“Mildew” — Touted as “The smell of first turning on your air conditioner.” I was expecting something more wet and dank. To me, this is green pepper. It’s spicy, warm; almost savory. Not something I want to wear at all, but to each their own. 1/10
“Musk #9”— A modern musk fragrance. A woody-fruit profile; lime, bergamot. Rather incense-like. Cool and dry, borderline oriental. A good evening scent. 6/10. I prefer heady and animalistic musks.
“Musk #15” — A classic musk fragrance. Powdery white musk. Fruity-floral top notes, rose at the middle, and base notes that come across like amber and tonka bean. 8/10
“New Leaf” — Spicy, green, like crushed herbs. Has an acidic element rather than sweet. A dry, “white wine” sort of green. Dries to something resembling patchouli (or apple). 5/10
“Paperback” — As it dries, it definitely gives off the scent of printer’s ink and binding paste. There’s a woody-vanilla paper scent too. 8/10
“Petrichor” — Mineral, fresh, sweet rain. Very nice! 9/10
“Puppy Breath” — Sweet, warm, a bit animalistic,and organic. It’s hard for me to describe the notes. Maybe floral? Maybe bubblegum? Definitely an aroma one wants to snuggle with! 9/10 (Personally, the scent reminds me of RSW airport in Fort Myers, FL).
“Rain” — Delicate, fresh water, aquatic, a mineral aspect as well. Rain is an easy-to-wear delight! 10/10
“Rice Paddy” — Rice wine, muddy water, oriental muskiness, mineral notes. It’s nice, pleasant, safe. I’d prefer it for a room fragrance than on my skin. 7/10
“Salt Air” — I’m not sure if I like this or not, it seems to wear different in various environments. Mineral, a bit of salt, and at times I get a citrus element. 5/10
“Snow” — Earthy, ozonic, aquatic and clean! It might not be photorealistic, but it beats out all those overdone “heavy evergreen and/or mint = snow” fragrances. 10/10
“Spacewalk” — This one amuses me, even if I don’t love it. It has an ozonic lift, and metallic element, melded under tropic sweetness. It reminds me a bit of sunscreen. 6/10
“Swimming Pool” — Cool, tropical, with a very faint hint of chlorine. Aquatic, and pleasant. There’s a linen aspect as well. Quite pleasant! 8/10
“Thunderstorm” — Mineral, petrichor, dry earth, vegetation, and rain. This definitely conveys the image it’s aiming for. I found it more “petrichor” than their offering of the same name, but both are good! 9/10
“Wet Garden” — Yes, please! Rain, a hint of sweet-pea flower. Green with floral and tannic elements. Refreshing! It gets more floral as it dries, but stays green and delicate. 8/10
2024.06.09 13:20 guiltyofnothing “You are what is wrong with society. Again, it is advisable that you the seek the psychiatric help that you require.” /r/bingingwithbabish boils over a new paywall and a creator’s apology
The Context:
Andrew Rea is a cook, YouTuber, and author better known as Babish, famous for his cooking series Binging with Babish.Recently, it was announced that Babish will be introducing a paywall for some new content. In addition, old websites with previously-free content were shuttered.
Babish has also come under fire for his sponsorships, with particular criticism over his promotion of the video game Hogwarts Legacy, considering the recent controversial statements from the series’ author JK Rowling.
Our drama starts as Babish himself takes to the sub to issue an apology for the rollout of the changes, attempting to justify and lay out the reasoning behind them.
While many are receptive to his explanation and find it sincere, others are not so ready to accept…
The Drama:
One user defends the criticism:TL;DR: you're getting a lot of criticsm for your shitty business decisions, so you're playing the mental health card to turn down the heat.[Continued:]
Look, I'm sorry you're going through a rough patch, and I'm sorry you've gone through the things you have. But forgive me if I find it hard to shed a tear for you.
You can't expect a huge outpouring of sympathy for your mental health, and then turn around and push Betterhelp and a crypto gambling game. Those are both products that prey on your audience's mental well-being. So we're supposed to care about your mental health but you don't give a fuck about ours? Explain that one to me. As for the paywall, I don't care that much, but it's shitty that you didn't tell people it was going up beforehand.
I’m not emotionally equipped to be a public figure.Should have thought of that before making your face the logo of your company.
Do you enjoy being an awful person?
His struggles are fairly well documented, personally, well before any of this happened
Just take 12 seconds and consider maybe this was an oversight?
It’s not like he’s fucking Brad Pitt with a team of 87 managers and PR folks. I’m sure he’s got a manager, but do you really think he’s got the same pull as an a-list actor to catch every small failure?
He’s a fucking YouTuber - a great one, in my opinion, but a YouTuber nonetheless. Humans make mistakes when they don’t have 36 people checking every ounce of their work.
Give him a little grace and maybe give everyone in your life a little. It’s not all a conspiracy, sometimes people just fuck up.
Do you enjoy not reading my comment? Yes, his mental health struggles are well documented. That's why I acknowledged them.Oh fuck off you miserable nerd, if you don’t like how he makes money, you don’t have to participate or consume the content.
I'm not talking about the paywall. I'm talking about how he wants everyone to care about his mental health, but has said absolutely nothing in regards to the shitty predatory sponsors. And I'm not talking about his shitty "sorry you feel that way" post on YouTube and taking the video down. He can't just say "sorry, mental health" while ignoring the harm he's helped cause by not being selective about who he takes money from.
If you’re going to keep being salty about this despite an apology and a way to access the old websites then I suggest you look inward.
Read my comment again, I'm not angry about the paywall.
Sure.
Read my fucking comment again, asswipe.
Did you change it?[…]
If not, I'll pass on reading your angry rantings again. Theu weren't worth the first read through.
No, I didn't. Because I already said it's not about the paywall, dipshit.
Theu weren't worth the first read through.Still worth it enough for you to respond and be an asshole though, I guess.
Edit: get blocked, douche.
Paywall paywall paywall.
You are obsessed.
I feel so sorry for you content creator dick riders lol
You’re acting like he owes you something. He doesn’t. We live in a different world now where companies are just faceless businesses anymore, and a lot of the things we consume are the product of single people or small teams. As a result, individual proclivities and issues are part of the new normal. If you have an issue with it; unsubscribe.Others stand to defend Babish:
Yeah, he owes ot to us not hawk predatory sponsors and then expect everyone to give him a hug when he has mental health issues. But fuck me, I guess. Maybe I should make a post about how I've been struggling with depression my entire life so this sub can forgive me for daring to not give him a hug and a kiss on the cheek for it.
live in a different world now where companies are just faceless businesses anymoreIt's a real shame he built his company off of his character and used his own face as its logo.
If you have an issue with it; unsubscribe.Believe me, I will. I guess I thought when he finally apologized for his shitty business practices that he'd actually apologize, instead of ignoring the sponsorship stuff all together. I thought he was better than this.
Great job folks. You bullied this nice dude who has given you hundreds of hours of free labor.[Continued:]
If were being real he saw the post on mildly infuriating and made a whole ass response, which is insecure as fuck .
Also this is a post where hes admitting hes at fault and yall are telling him “no” which is funny as shit.
It’s “insecure as fuck” to address widespread criticism openly and honestly?Criticism over shitty business practices (shilling products designed to prey on the mental wellbeing of your audience and introducing paywalls with no notice) isn't the same as bullying.
one guy saying bad things about you shouldn’t make you wanna write out a giant reddit post defending yourself yeah.
Who needs to be liked THAT much?
Not one guy, it was widespread backlash on multiple subreddits and from like all his fans. It would have been ridiculous not to respond
I mean grow up. You have no right to his labor. None at all. Notice? What is this, you're upset about his terms of service? Lol.
Babish isn't gonna fuck you, bro.
"I have no point but I have a funny"
What point could I make that wasn't already addressed in my response to this parasocial weiner?[…]
Babish made some shitty business decisions, people criticized them. That's not bullying. When people complain about McDonald's discontinuing a menue item, you never see people say "stop bullying the CEO :(". So why is it suddenly bullying when criticism is directed at a YouTuber for their shitty business practices? Yes, Andrew is a person. But that doesn't mean he's immune to complaints just because some parasocial crybaby thinks telling a person to do better constitutes "bullying".
Except if you read the comments on some of the posts people absolutely went well beyond criticism of the business decision to personal insults and vitriol that could indeed accurately be described as “bullying”.
Fair enough, but they made a general comment about how this sub bullied him, not just a few shitheels who took it too far.
cool but that wasn't what the person you told to "grow up" was doing, so why don't you stop huffing your own farts for a minute
I didn’t tell anyone anything? What are you talking about?
whoops, thought you were the OP in this thread, not just a random interjection like me. I'm cutting down on caffeine and it is not making me smarter
The knives are out:he isn't doing it for "free" mate, he's running a for-profit business. yes bullying is wrong, but people complain about businesses all the time.
Free labour, minus his YouTube revenue, sponsorship revenue, merch revenue...
There's wanting to encourage civility, but let's not jerk each other off here.
Or let's. I mean. It's a Saturday night and I'm alone. I'm open to talk.
Grow some balls lol
Dude you've been up your own ass for years. When you first started blowing up and dragging your videos out - I nicely suggested you stop adding 5 minutes to the beginning of every video showing us how to make bread. I told you having a separate "Bread with Babish" and telling viewers to reference that would be better. You basically said I was stupider than frog excrement and shouldn't think. Like what? Then a few months later Basics with Babish comes out. Go fuck yourself.Another brings up Babish’s Hogwarts Legacy sponsorship:
Bro has main character syndrome, thinking Babish personally spites him and only him.
In the nicest possible way, touch grass. Maybe even read your comment out loud and you might realise how ridiculous you sound.
You’ve been carrying this grudge for what, eight years? Touch some grass.
"touch grass" is so overused and trite it makes me want to tear off my dick
Can we get an update on promoting the transphobic wizard game, and apparently deleting comments mentioning trans people on the video?[Continued:]
Imagine what a sad life you live if you’re that triggered by a video game. Literally don’t play it. Why do you care if others play it?
Because buying the game is basically saying "This mid wizards game is more important to me than human rights, fuck gay people, fuck trans people, kill em all, i dont give a shit lmao".
Seek help.
You should seek help if you dontate your money to making the lives of others worse intentionally and give 0 fucks about it.
You are what is wrong with society. Again, it is advisable that you the seek the psychiatric help that you require. (By the way, it’s a great game).[…]
Glad to know im whats wrong with society and not the scumbags who gave money to anti trans charities. Just know while you're playing it that trans people are living worse lives because of you.
The lil smart phone that ur using right now that relies on cobalt, which was mined by little kids like those in the DRC without protective gear so your phone could have a battery. Just know while you’re sitting here being a keyboard warrior that thousands, if not millions, of little kids’ lives are getting worse because of you.
a.) Im not on a phone and do not own a phone.
b.) Theres a difference because you NEED a computer of some sort to function well these days. You do not need the wizard game.
c.) Theres a difference between supporting a company like that where they try to hide it and keep it from the public and openly supporting someone who basically just comes out and says "Yo btw if you buy my game ill use the money to kill trans people, thanks"
Imagine being privileged enough for someone enjoying/promoting a Harry Potter game to be what gets ur panties in a twist. I get Rowling is a shit show, but be fucking for real 🤦🏻♀️ I’m sure your phone is a product of child slave labor and I’m sure you buy a lot of shit that promotes even more terrible things. Get off your high horse and stop crying over first world problems.[Continued:]
Im sorry its considered being on a high horse for wishing people didnt support a disgusting fucking transphobic monster thats hurting fuckloads of people. Its not even like other companies where its semi hidden and you have to look for it, she's blatantly and publicly a transphobic scumbag piece of human garbage. If you don't know any better, sure, but when people are buying the game with the specific intent to support transphobia or don't care that they're giving their money to someone who who's publicly transphobic and openly supports bigots and the hurting of people, you're transphobic and probably terrible.
People like you don’t actually help anything. All you do is piss off ordinary people and make them less likely to care about the trans community. You’re just bitter and you feel better about accomplishing nothing when you sling garbage comments at people. Grow up and do something that actually helps the community. Spewing vitriol and calling people transphobic is not helping.
Someone is transphobic Gets called transphobic Surprised Pikachu face
So you want me to stop calling transphobic people transphobic?
Id rather not help at all than actively hurt the community, ruin people's lives, and fund charities that fight to give people less rights. At least I fight for human decency and people's rights and don't donate to this shit.
I’ll rephrase. YOU ARE ACTIVELY HURTING THE COMMUNITY BY MAKING PEOPLE LESS LIKELY TO SUPPORT. Seriously, stop it. You’re not helping, you’re hurting. You’re not the face of the community, you’re just shouting in the comments at people who just want to watch a guys YouTube channel about food.
”He supports JK Rowling.” No he doesn’t. The game is a game. Cry all you want about what she said, the rest of the community has been ignoring her for years.
“She donates against trans acceptance”. Yes, and she would anyway even if the game didn’t get made. She was already rich after the books, it’s a pointless argument based solely on your principles and not on doing any good.
You keep calling people transphobic, but they are not. Buying a video game is not transphobic. You’re delusional and childish. This conversation is over, leave these people alone and spend time figuring your own shit out.
I dont know in what universe giving more money to be donated to anti LGBT stuff is not transphobic. "Yeah i give money to charities that murder children but i dont support child murder". Sounds insane right? Thats what you're saying. That just because you're giving money to support making trans people's lives worse that you're not transphobic. You're being insane. "She'd support it anyways so who cares!" is the most insane argument i have ever read in my life holy shit. xDOne user taps out:
Hopeless and stupid. You may as well go vote for Trump, you’ll fit right in. Honestly at this point I think you’re paid to make the trans community look bad, it makes more sense than whatever other insanity you want to keep blathering. I’m just gonna block you, like every other rational person.
You gave money to the company that made your smart phone and therefor you support child labor since the whole phone, or at least pieces of it, were made from child labor. You’re a disgusting human being….you see how fucking delusional you sound, bro?
I’m glad you addressed it, but I had to leave. Best of luck to your future endeavors and I hope lessons were learned.[Continued:]
And yet, here you are
This isn’t the airport. You don’t have to announce your departure.
what an original comment, you are so smart and funny and original for having made such a thought provoking post. I hope you print this comment out and frame it so that your children will learn to appreciate what an original thinker their parent is. are you the person who invented "touch grass" as well? big fan of your work
lol I can only imagine how sad your life is that this is how you spend your time
if you think it is sad that I am here on reddit, doing reading and commenting, I have some terrible , alarming news for you.
lol yea that’s definitely what I meant 😂One user still has issues, despite the apology:
Any amount of warning that you were planning to paywall the site would have made it a lot more palatable of a change. Doing it without telling people felt shady at best and deceptive at worst.[Continued:]
Yeah, and this is an acknowledgment and an apology. Seems a little cruel to keep dragging him at this point.
I guess it starts with a halfhearted apology. There’s no explanation for why it was sprung without notice.
It’s “yeah whatever guess I should’ve told y’all but here’s some more stuff coming up that you can pay me for”
here's some more stuff coming up that you can pay me forAh, so you're one of those people who feels entitled to infinite free content from creators.
It’s weird to me how many people think YouTube content is free. YOU are the product. Free means no monetary exchanges. Do you think Andrew makes no money from YouTube? Do you think YouTube makes no money from you? His videos are not free.
Wow you are REALLY fucking dumb huh?[…]
No but apparently you are. How does Babish not get paid from YouTube? Is every video he posts “free labor”?
No I just don’t think this should be portrayed as an apology when it’s really just an advertisementA slapfight breaks out:
Maybe he can post again so you can still be mad for some fucking reason
I’m sure you have good connections but if you want some fresh eyes on your script, id be down to give some coverage. Why am I being downvoted so heavily? As an aspiring writer myself, I know how hard it is to get feedback on a project. I’m a fan and offering my time and energy. I don’t get what the problem is. lol wtf is this sub? Comments insulting people getting upvotes in a thread about how negative comments have affected someone is wild work. Fuck me for being interested in Andrew as a writer.[Continued:]
Same vibes as the dude who asked Elon to run Tesla who was a nobody
get outta here man lol
Because you’re a nobody lmao
Holy shit, just read through your comments and god damn are you miserable hahah.
meanwhile you're scouring the profiles of people who upset you, looking for mud to sling
Someone calls me a nobody, I gotta go see what mighty status they got in the world to be shitting on others lol.
He literally thinks babish is gonna choose him or something but instead he attacks me 💀
Looooool you’re gonna play victim??? Aint no fucking way lol. You insult and disrespectfully gatekeep and now you’re the one talking about being attacked hahahahahaha fuck all the way off with that nonsense.
The Flairs:
2024.06.09 11:00 WaveOfWire This is (not) a Dungeon - Chapter 3
First Prev Next Patreon Ko-fi Discord
PRs: u/anakist & u/BroDogIsMyName
- - - - -
It had been a few weeks since Altier was brought to the run-down shack that his black-scaled companion likely called home, and he could now comfortably say he was accustomed to the…household’s routine. The kobold typically left at the crack of dawn, returned a little after noon, and occasionally left again to forage until nightfall. When the weather was bad or there wasn’t a particular need for something, they half-heartedly chased their rabbit around for a bit, which usually ended with a bout of quiet petting while everyone got ready for the night. It was always amusing to see the energetic side of what he had come to know as a relatively lazy loaf of an animal. As for the routine of the ferrorabbit in question… Well…it was at least more interesting than expected.
Hoppit would begin his own series of activities as soon as his caretaker left—the first of which being a check of every nook and cranny in the shed. He sniffed at anything that caught his interest, varying from morning to morning, but he gave every object or corner its due attention. Once he was satisfied with that, he would eat some of the ragged plants that made up most of his diet, take a drink from his bowl, then jump onto the tro— table and plop himself down, his ears pivoting towards the door. It was hard to say if the lounging spot had been established before Altier’s arrival, but it was somewhat amusing to pretend that the little rabbit was standing guard over his core—if it wasn’t for one particular part of the morning ritual, that is.
Indeed, the ferrorabbit had a habit of licking the obsidian orb that sat in the middle of the room, which thankfully didn’t seem to perturb the system enough to give Altier a headache. He was confused when it first happened, but it was commonplace enough now that he barely acknowledged it. A part of him liked that he was getting attention as a core, even if it was delivered via a strange grooming method. The closest he got to being acknowledged as something other than ‘the dungeon’ was through an unfortunate misunderstanding that he could never properly rectify. He supposed that was hardly worth thinking about now, though; too much time had passed for there to be anyone left to correct. The little oddity of his mornings would have to suffice.
There wasn’t much to comment on as far as the rest of the day’s happenings. Hoppit would end his loafing by shaking his head and ears in a way that filled the silence with soft clacks, give the core a customary tongue bath, then jump off the table to nose his way out of the shed through a hole that was hidden by the storage cart against the wall. Where the rabbit went was anyone’s guess, but he always returned before anyone noticed he was gone, and often did so while covered in small cuts and scratches. Any blood from the lacerations was quickly licked off before it could be seen by the kobold, and in the event that the scaly caretaker happened to return earlier than expected, Hoppit would scurry over to the bundles of blankets to finish the cleanup in secret.
Today looked to be following the usual pattern. The kobold left bright and early with various gardening tools and a wooden pail, and Hoppit had since set off into the great unknown for one reason or another. Hopefully, he returned less injured than usual. It was frustrating to admit that Altier had begun to grow rather fond of the fluffy creature, and seeing the thing come back hurt was bothersome. Was it off looking for food? There wasn’t a whole lot given to it, so that was a possibility, and it could be getting into fights over whatever it found. That still didn’t explain why the animal was so thin, and Altier didn’t have enough to go off of to think of a potential solution. He wanted to help it in some way, like by summoning a creature to act as an escort, or maybe just by manifesting something edible like he once could. No, he could only stare at the ‘Synchronizing…’ that occupied his menu, wishing he had more information to work with.
He never thought he would miss the bombardment of notifications and their lingering presence that filled the edge of his mental vision; at least with that he could surmise enough to hazard some kind of action. Even knowing why the menu was acting the way it did would be a start. Yet, try as he might, there wasn’t a history for him to reference anymore, and he had nothing to work with. He was confident the last message had asked him to ‘accept’ something, then took his befuddled ponderance as an answer, but he was no closer to an explanation for what it wanted, nor why it prompted him in the first place. He just didn’t have another experience to compare against, since nothing like that had ever happened before. Not that he was ever in much of a position to allow it.
The entire purpose of having Altier inhabit a core was for him to become a dungeon of Decay, which entailed all the skeletons, poisons, acids, and whatever else came to mind when one pictured the concept. ‘Living’ creatures were something he only had the chance to experiment with near the beginning of his new existence, though he never dabbled past the first few insects before transitioning to the mindless undead. Having a thinking, feeling, breathing entity touch his core was a rite reserved only for the adventurers and soldiers that bested his trials, and that was usually a painful experience. Now, he had spent what he could only guess was hours being held by a kobold, followed by having a rabbit bump against him, and neither felt like what he came to expect. Instead, both had led to a completely novel reaction from the system. The strange circumstances put him at a bit of a loss as to what it all meant for him.
Sure, he could dismiss the deluge of errors from his companion’s involvement by pointing to the numerous ‘corrupted’ messages before it, and Hoppit was a part of mostly unexplored territory, but the lack of clarity nagged at the back of his mind constantly. Being exposed to activity after potential decades or centuries of unchanging solitude made him despise the informational dead end. If he couldn’t make sense of the rabbit’s circumstances, then he didn’t have much hope of deciphering the reason for why his system was misbehaving so terribly. He also didn't know much about the one who owned the decrepit holdings he was housed inside.
He still wasn’t sure what drove the kobold to take him from the cave. His suspicion of becoming traded goods fell flat after the first week or so, and he hadn’t noticed any cult-like behaviour, which was promising. Granted, a lack of nefarious behaviour didn’t mean there was a lack of nefarious intent, but he didn’t get the impression his companion held that either. The kobold itself didn’t seem quite settled on an opinion of his core, though it was up for debate if the hesitation was due to knowing what he was or not. They seemed to mull something over before bed each night, yet never reached a satisfactory conclusion, staring at the obsidian orb through weary grey eyes until they eventually forced themselves into sleep.
Whatever the underlying reasoning for his abduction was, he had observed enough to know that the kobold didn’t deserve to live in destitution. As beaten as the shed might be, they cared for it as best they could, and did so without a single groan or grimace of complaint. The floors were cleaned with a tattered rag and fresh water, dust was removed regularly, and any stray mess that Hoppit made was dealt with promptly. They even took the time to wipe off his core, which was possibly where the ferrorabbit got the idea to start licking him. The only time Altier had seen discontent from the kobold was when they didn’t find much during their foraging, and thus couldn’t give any treats to the excited and bouncy herbivore.
He wasn’t aware that a creature’s face could make such a painfully broken expression, and he was quick to decide that he never wanted to see it again.
Vexingly, his metaphorical hands were tied; a dungeon could only influence their Domain, and given the state of his system, not even that option was available to him. All he could do was glare at the rotting wooden beams that held up the roof and remember when such an issue didn’t exist. It would have taken a mere flicker of thought and a paltry sum of mana to mend the struts when he was a proper dungeon. He could even outright reinforce the structure by weaving in other materials, leaving the appearance as it was while making everything stronger than iron. Well, he once could. Working with other affinities was something that came to him after absorbing the coloured motes left behind by adventurers, and the accursed stone that stole his mana had taken that ability as well.
An attempt was made anyway, his will ordering the deteriorated wood to absorb any trace metals from the ground, but it was no use. He couldn’t feel the iron or stones beneath the shed like he would have been able to before, all but confirming his suspicion that his connection to the Earth element had slipped away. Nature was much the same; the only way he knew when Hoppit had returned most days was from the subtle noise and the essence of injury. The other attributes—Air, Flame, Luma, Shadow, and so on—were ones he never experimented with to any real extent, so it was less noticeable when he lost his grasp on them. Perhaps they faded early. Either way, all he had left was a waning cognizance of his own alignment, and that wasn’t of much use to him. If he had any appreciable mana income, then perhaps he could do something, but he wasn’t even sure what the upkeep of his current Domain might be. It was entirely possible that he was running on a deficit, which would offer a reason for why his system had been so—
[Do#$@n Ex@#d$%^&d! CRe@#r H-H-H-HoPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP—]
[Errrrrrr—]
[Sy$%^hroni%^$zing…]
[Creeee-tu— Hoppit ha@$ esttttb-hed terrrrrrr-ity f^#% t$e dun@&$n!]
- - - - -
“Well then,” he mumbled to himself, taking in the strange scene behind the shed. For one, he could actually view a small distance beyond the structure now, and two, there was a rather proud-looking Hoppit sitting on his haunches before a pair of significantly less prideful examples of the species. They looked quite a bit bigger than the lazy loaf Altier had come to know, yet they were more cut up and dejected than his furry friend. That answered where the injuries had been coming from, he supposed. Hoppit was probably running off to bash heads with whatever animal population existed here beforehand, and they had only just reached a consensus on who was in charge. Impressive.
One of Hoppit’s ears turned back towards the shed, his head following suit as he gave a lagomorph’s approximation of a ‘Look what I did!’ smile. Altier blanked out mentally, but didn’t have time to question anything before the new leader of the local rabbits imperiously pointed a paw towards the surrounding forest, which was equally surreal to witness. Most surprising of all, the…subordinates? The other ferrorabbits did as commanded, keeping their forms small as they took off into the foliage. Soft clacks came from Hoppit’s pleased shake of his head, then he too left the area with only a slightly lopsided bounce to his stride.
The man-turned-core could only gape at what he saw. Were animals always so…expressive? Had Hoppit heard him? What in the world was happening? Why had Hoppit’s personal conquest led to Altier’s Domain expanding?
He lamented not having fingers, nor temples to rub with them. His system was a garbled mess of errors and inconsistent messages, his residence was falling apart at the seams, his companion was someone who abducted him from the dungeon, yet never did anything past that, and his first real experience with an animal was turning out to be more confusing than he thought possible.
All of this was after an unknown amount of time spent commanding legions of undead to strengthen the very people who he would later learn had lied to and manipulated him, making him into a nightmarish entity just to bolster the power of their forces. He almost missed the days spent gazing out of a mossy window. At least then he knew what to expect.
Nothing made sense anymore.
= = = = =
The soft sound of roots ripping free from soil suddenly stopped, only to be followed by a dull thud of Ceele’s palm slapping against the ground to catch her fall before she landed on her rear. She righted herself with her tail and tossed the stubborn weed into a pile with the others. No matter how many mornings she did this, they always seemed to replace themselves faster than she could remove the pesky things. A sigh slipped from her muzzle as she set about grabbing the next one embedded in the vegetable garden.
Aches and spreading stiffness flared up, but went ignored as she neared the end of her duties, though she was well aware that they would come back with force once she tried to settle down for the day. The impending soreness was an inevitable byproduct of spending so much time working. Still, she knew that if it wasn’t for the kindly old couple that allowed her to call their shed home, she would still be sleeping beneath the stars while making sure nothing tried to get at her Hoppit. Even if it was just a part of the deal, they were owed this much in return, and she would see it done properly.
The sun bore down on her back as she did her usual tasks, which was a departure from the slightly overcast weather as of late. It looked somewhat promising when she checked in the wee hours of the morning, yet as her gardening duties dragged on, so too did the intensity of such a clear sky. A disappointed glance at the empty wooden bucket on the edge of the field was quickly corrected. She hadn’t thought to refill it at the river after watering the crops, and her parched throat was making its protests known, while also reminding her that there wasn’t much water left at home either. One more thing to take care of when she was done.
A gruff cough brought her attention towards the old kobold resting his back against a tree some distance away, safely shaded from the unforgiving rays beaming down. Her displeasure at having yet more to do was hastily wiped away. She was undecided on what to think of the detached audience, but looking so sour while upholding her side of the agreement wouldn’t reflect well on her. Hopefully, he hadn’t seen it. Not that she could tell if he did; he always had the same expression when he watched her work. The elder kobold’s arms were crossed, a finger tapping absently against his bicep, while his tail sat motionless on the grass, the muddy red colour of his scales standing out amongst the greens and browns. ‘Makis,’ was his name, assuming her memory served.
Makis had taken to observing her every so often, usually propping himself against this or that at a distance, the unwavering scowl being as unnerving as it was belying of his age. Somewhat loose skin sagged a bit around his jowls and neck, yet the rest of his face was still taut from how much time he spent examining red-hot metal, and his arms were marred with countless burns and cuts from his profession. He held an oppressive aura, though the crinkles around his eyes and muzzle suggested he smiled as frequently as he glowered, even if Ceele was yet to see the former. There was only the same judgmental expression aimed at her when he was around. She could only hope that he didn’t take offence to some unintended slight, but she didn’t know him well enough to say what might be considered one.
They hadn’t spoken since she took up residence on the outskirts of his land. His wife was the one to introduce them, but it was quickly established that he had no intention of being a chatty individual. He led Ceele to the shed hidden amongst the trees on the edge of the property, then dismissed her with only a grunt coming from the elderly kobold. She supposed that it was for the best. Her experience in socializing was centred around convincing others to employ her, and there hadn’t been much of an opportunity to expand her horizons while living a life on the road. If that had been the end of their interactions, she would have swiftly written the terseness off, but he appeared every few days, taking up residence beneath the shade as he watched her work, never speaking a single word. At least he didn’t openly protest her presence, yet she figured that would be easier to manage. He wouldn’t be such an enigma then.
There wasn’t a whole lot she knew about him besides his penchant for ‘supervision,’ and anything beyond that was what his wife had volunteered during the rare opportunity they had to chat. She was told that Makis worked the smithy out front, and although he had retired from doing so in an official capacity, she could still regularly hear his hammer as she tended to the garden, so she figured he kept himself busy most days. It made her wonder what was so interesting about a vagrant like herself, but when there was so little else to do, she could see how anything could be made worth the attention. It was just him and his wife living in the once bustling home, after all; the couple’s children had long since grown up and made families of their own.
She noticed his gaze shift elsewhere as she tugged yet another stubborn intruder from the soil, his arms falling from across his chest and the perpetually worn displeasure melting to that of curiosity. He wandered off shortly after, and she had to make an effort not to fall onto her tail as the pressure on her shoulders unexpectedly evaporated. Did something happen?
Ceele shook her head free of the distracting thought. It wasn’t her business if he grew bored with watching her work. As long as no one voiced any complaints, she could only assume that she was doing a satisfactory job. Maybe he finally decided that he didn’t need to be so watchful because she was doing well! That could be it, right?
A glance at the somewhat sloppily maintained garden erased the false confidence from her face, but she was just as quick to focus on finishing up, unwilling to allow darker musings to fester. Thankfully, there didn’t seem to be anything else that needed her intervention. The weeds were all uprooted, the soil was appropriately dampened, and her check for pesky insects or wildlife turned up nothing to worry about. She was free for the rest of the day!
…Or she would be free—as soon as she finished the last of her tasks, anyway.
The black-scaled kobold got up from her crouch unsteadily, shivering and wincing from the pins and needles in her legs. She would have to remember to stretch more often; it was far too easy to forgo that kind of thing just to make the overall work go slightly faster. Her hand reached out to grab the pile of weeds and put them into the bucket as she ran through what needed to be done before she could properly relax. Hoppit’s food needed to be washed, she needed to bathe, and they were running low on water anyway, so she would have to visit the river. Just the thought of dragging herself into the forest again made her muscles protest, but she wouldn’t have the energy to do it later. She forced the smile that had started to fall and took the first of many steps.
- - - - -
The river wasn’t too far away, only taking a few minutes of traipsing through the dense woodlands until she reached her destination. It was an idyllic little spot. The trees thinned out to allow a grassy bank along the water, and there was an appreciably gentle slope from shallows to depths, making for a convenient place to take care of various needs. She had discovered this place during her travels, and it was where a kind older woman found her.
Ceele was washing off at the time, with Hoppit safely taking shelter from the outside underneath the bundled blankets while he waited. The trickle of the stream brushing against rocks covered the sound of footsteps, so she was rather surprised when an aged voice called out to ask if she was okay. Her first reaction was to distance herself and apologize—the why didn’t matter, but she had learned that most people were more lenient of her presence if she seemed apologetic for it, and she usually was. The elderly kobold just laughed at her scrambling, tacking on an assurance that there was no need for modesty. The woman was blind, apparently, which explained how Ceele’s blackened colours hadn’t deterred her.
Strangely enough, there was a comforting sense of ease around the one who introduced herself as Hira. It was a sort of presence that Ceele could only vaguely remember, and it drew her close enough to speak as she finished bathing. The conversation wasn’t anything profound, of course—they hardly delved deeper than surface-level small talk—but Hira lost her smile as she listened to the younger kobold. By the end of it, the old woman posed a series of questions with a dark inflection to her voice, and Ceele struggled to find an answer.
‘Are you tired of looking for something that only slips away? Are you tired of running? Do you really want to be scared and alone?’
If the silence bothered Hira, then it didn’t show. She had simply held out a hand and offered Ceele a way of life that didn’t involve wondering where she would be spending the night, nor entailed cowering in the brush while fearsome predators roamed freely. It would be a simple existence of few fortunes, but it was safe, and it was honest. All she had to do was say yes.
Ceele denied it at first, partially because she knew most people despised Hobbit's species, and partially because she couldn’t shake the offer being too good to be true. Hira was quick to propose a compromise; Ceele could take residence in the gardening shed that had fallen from use, and to satiate the nagging sense of an unfair deal, she would be put in charge of maintaining the garden itself. All Hira wanted was to ‘see’ her favourite space bloom again, since she couldn’t take care of it anymore. The black-scaled kobold stared longingly at where Hoppit was, his little body shivering from the prolonged cold and fear that he would be hurt if he left the blankets hiding him. It was with a heavy guilt that she accepted Hira’s offer, keeping quiet about her true reason for doing so.
That was in the past, however, though she thought about it every time she stopped by and saw the smooth rocks where she and Hira first met. Eventually, she might gather the courage to admit that she was housing a ‘pest’ and beg for forgiveness. Until then, she would just work her hardest to prove it wasn’t a mistake to give her a home. That her endless efforts weren’t meaningless. That Hoppit deserved to be more than a ‘pest.’
That Ceele was more than something she had no control over being.
She cleared her head a bit and started on the reason she came all this way. Her dress was rather easy to wash in the meandering water, and the trees provided a suitable place for it to dry in the sunlight and light breeze. The weeds were fine with a thorough rinse near in the shallows, but taking care of her own hygiene required her to wade farther in, though it only came up to her chest in the middle of the rill. Still, she could scrub off the soil and grime, which was all she really needed. Perhaps some simple soaps would help rid her of the pervasive black that stained her skin and scales, but that was beyond her meagre means for the time being, as well as being mere wishful thinking.
She worked past the dreary mindset that settled in when she allowed it, focusing on how serene the river was. The soft birdsong from the trees helped make for a peaceful experience, and she could feel the somewhat chilled liquid basically pour into the aches and pains throughout her body, washing away the stiffness from spending so long under the unerring sun. It was nice to escape reality and let thoughts drift while held buoyant by calmer waters.
Yet the bliss was short-lived. Even if winter was gone, spring was still far from warming the waters enough for her to laze about for too long. She dragged herself from the soft current and fetched her dress from the low-lying branch she left it to dry on. It was still a touch damp, but it wasn’t anything a bit of time in front of the fireplace wouldn’t fix.
Ceele was only a short distance away from home when she heard a gravelly male voice, but it was the flicker of sight between the trees that made her drop what was in her arms and lunge into a sprint.
Makis stood just outside the gardening shed, a ferrorabbit held at arm’s length by rusty crimson hands placed on the scruff and haunch, the rabbit’s little ears flattened as fear filled its tiny face. Her eyes widened further when she noticed the small stains of blood in his light brown fur. They found out about him. Ephemeral claws of blackness clutched at her soul, ripping the very fabric she was made of as an unseen beast smiled, eager to take yet one more thing from her. Her Hoppit. Her baby. Her everything.
“Hoppit!” she shrieked, her words all but tearing out of her throat in desperation. Frozen blood coursed through her veins, yet poured into exhausted limbs. She broke through the treeline with no regard for the branches slashing against her flesh, panic making each sting fade before it could be processed. The grizzled glare of the older kobold snapped towards her, his usual scowl picking up an actual air of intensity that she never thought could be absent, the promise of violence lurking in his eyes. She skidded to a stop a few paces away, the lump in her throat threatening to clog her airway. “S-stop hurting him!”
“Didn’t,” he barked back, his tone even yet firm. “Cuts ain’t me. I’d’a done worse if’a had ta mind ta.”
The blatant declaration snapped her from blind panic, although his apparent anger didn’t do her fear any favours. “B-but… Then how…”
“‘Hoppit.’ Named it, did’cha?” he grunted, ignoring her confusion and bobbing the rabbit to get her attention again. His gaze shifted back to the animal, the flames of ire cooling slightly. “I was wonderin’ why yer plots ain’t dead yet. Suppose this critter’s why.”
One of her hands hesitantly reached out until she pulled it back, while the other clutched at her chest to stop her heart from hammering against her ribs. She couldn’t act rashly. Not while her baby was in his arms. “I—”
“Soft thing, ain’t it,” the elder kobold commented curiously, cutting her off.
“Y-yes?” she returned reluctantly, struggling to stop herself from lashing out to reclaim the ferrorabbit in his grasp.
“Like fine silk.” Makis tipped and tilted the animal, inspecting this and that with a deep-seated frown, all while Hoppit silently looked to her for help. The pit in her stomach grew. She needed to get him back, but how?
Ceele swallowed the dense dread as she tried to formulate some sort of plan, stumbling over her words and forced smile. “I-it’s nice! Isn’t it nice?”
His eyes snapped back to burrow into her own with hatred. “Wasn’t a compliment, girly.”
“B-but you—”
He released Hoppit’s lower half to jab a claw at the various spikes around his body, plying them with minimal force. “Look. See this? These’r suppose ta break bone. ‘Specially when he’s stiff like this. Ain’t no way I should be able ta bend ‘em. He’s barely more than a walkin’ carcass—all skin ‘n stick. He’s gonna get picked up by a wandering pecker if he keeps pissin’ about out ‘ere. It’s a wonder he’s still kickin’. What’cha feeding ‘em?” His gaze dropped from her face to the rest of her, disgust curling his muzzle into a snarl. “N’ver mind. I can guess.”
She felt the dampness build at the edges of her vision, unprepared to not only worry for Hoppit's immediate health, but also to face such harsh criticism while she was so vulnerable. “I… I try to make sure he has…”
Makis crouched to release the ferrorabbit onto the ground, Ceele dropping to her knees the moment he did. The terrified lagomorph wasted no time, bolting towards his adoptive mother and leaping into her arms, shaking uncontrollably. The rust-coloured ‘bold stared as she started soothingly stroking the animal’s back.
“Yer given’ em the weeds, aren’t ya?” he stated rather than asked. She gave a teary nod when her voice wouldn’t respond for her. The old kobold drew a breath, letting it go in an exasperated sigh as he stood back up, his expression becoming more impatient than antagonistic. “What else?”
“I— Um…”
“What. Else?”
“W-whatever I c-can find!” she sputtered out. Hoppit tried to hide against her neck, prompting her to tighten her hold. She couldn’t stop herself from shrinking, the guilt and confusion pulling her head down. “R-roots, vegetables, fruits… I give them as often as I can.”
His glare continued unimpeded, his cadence cold. “That it?”
There were a million things Ceele wanted to say. A part of her wanted to beg him not to kick them out of the first safe place she had in longer than she could remember, but she couldn’t find the words. She wanted to deny the judgmental tone that stabbed into her insecurity surrounding how good of a job she was doing with Hoppit, but the deadened void in her chest swallowed her pride whole. She knew he was right to critique her. That she was failing in the only thing that mattered anymore. That the feeling of loss would return.
“I try,” she whispered through the beginnings of a sob. “I try to find more, but he needs someone around, and I have to work the garden, so there’s only so much time I can spend looking. He won’t even eat all of what I bring back…” Tears dripped off her cheeks as she aimed a desolate smile at her furry friend. “He wants to make sure I have some too.”
“Yer killin’ em,” Makis pointed out plainly, crossing his arms. “He’ll be dead ‘fore the summer at this rate.”
“I know!” she shouted, forcing back the memories of insidious murmurs that lurked in the back of her mind, eager to creep into her ears again. The hate-filled stares that followed her, the rumours that arrived in towns before she had the chance to make an impression, and the guilt that loomed over her like an executioner's axe… “I know I am… I just… I don’t know what he needs. I don’t know how to make him happy…but I try. I’m trying…”
“…Yer an idiot, girly.”
She looked up to see the elder kobold walking away without another word. Her eyes fell to Hoppit, the ferrorabbit pressing himself against her as much as he could. He was small, thin, soft, and growing weaker by the day, but he never let it keep him down for long. No, he always showed his best for her, giving her joy that wasn’t provided anywhere else. She saw the thin cuts and dried blood, though she didn’t know where they came from, nor how he got out of the shed in the first place. But that was okay. Hoppit was okay, and she had Hoppit, so everything was okay, right?
…But how much longer would everything stay okay? How much longer until her efforts weren’t enough, and she was left desperately reaching for fading memories of what once was? How much longer until she killed her baby too?
How much longer until she was alone again?
Soft footsteps drew near, pulling her from the spiralling thoughts that threatened to gnaw at her soul. Damp, blurry eyes fell on Makis returning with a small wooden crate, the older kobold stopping a few steps away. He dropped the box, a deep, rattling thud produced as it impacted the ground, making Hoppit flinch in her arms. Ceele blinked as she kept him calm, then blinked again, looking up at the man for answers.
“The name, girly,” he spat in irritation. “Ferrorabbit. Ther’ Earth aligned creatures; they need metals. They don’t care where they get it, but they need lots of it. Iron, copper, tin, lead—raw crystal, if they can find it. You name it, they’ll take a chunk out of it. It's why they bother farmers so much; the best soil’s usually top’a gem deposits, ‘n the little bastards have no issue burrowing deep to get it. Dries up the element’s energy ‘n makes the crops weak.”
Ceele’s mouth opened and closed, each unsuccessful attempt to speak making her feel smaller and smaller. More and more lost. Why was he telling her this? How did he know? What was in the—
He kicked the crate with the side of his foot. “Scraps. Don’t’cha look at me like that. I’m a smith, girly. I might be old and retired, but I still work a forge. Now, this ain’t anything pure—it’s just slag and hunks—but I’m sure the critter won’t mind. Your little gardenin’ project pays off, ‘n I’ll see which of my contacts can get in some better ore.”
She ripped her eyes away from the box and met the perpetual scowl of the old kobold, seeing a warmth behind the hostility that she had never noticed before. “…Why?”
He scoffed in amusement, which looked somewhat menacing on such a hardened expression. “Yer a touch stupid, girly, but the missus adores ya, ‘n yer a good worker.” A shadow of a smile formed on his face. “Hira spent more evenings asking ‘bout how the plots are doin’ than I got time in the day. She’d bite my head off if I noticed a critter like that sufferin’ and didn’t lend a hand. ‘Specially when it’s obvious you ain’t tryin’ ta hurt the thing.”
“B-but the garden… Isn’t he a problem?”
Makis rolled his eyes, turning with a dismissive wave of his hand. “If he was, he’da killed it by now. I’d say he’s been keepin’ the others clear ‘n got scratched up for the trouble. That’s more reason to feed ‘em right in my eyes; pay the poor bastard his dues.” He paused after a few steps, shooting her one last incredulous glance. “‘N the rabbit’s right. You’re not much better off than he is. Eat. Before the missus takes my head, preferably. I ain’t need ta hear her worryin’ over you more than I already do.”
And with that, he walked off back to the house, leaving Ceele to sit stunned on the ground with Hoppit quietly nuzzling into her.
“Hoppit…?”
The ferrorabbit perked an ear and gently licked her collar. Fresh tears ran rivulets down her face, yet they didn’t weigh her down. They felt freeing. She adjusted her hold on the rabbit and held him out, taking in the small cuts and numerous other injuries she had never noticed before. He stared back at her with worried eyes.
“You’ve been busy, huh?” she cooed quietly, doing her best to keep her voice from cracking. He shrunk in her hands. “I told you to stay home, baby. What if something happened to you? I wouldn’t know where you went, and…”
Her protests died out as she saw what was unmistakably guilt on his little face. She brought him back to her chest and cleared her throat.
“It’s alright, Hoppit. If… If you want to help momma, then we can work together, okay? Just…please don’t go off getting hurt… I don’t know what I’d do without you…” The rabbit didn’t reply, and she was pretty sure she had never heard him make any sounds that weren’t his happy little ear clacks, but she chose to interpret the nuzzling as an agreement. “Such a smart boy…”
She took a breath and wiped off the excess moisture from her cheeks, setting Hoppit down on the ground. “Let’s bring Mr. Makis’ gift in, and then I need to go get more water so we can clean you up, okay?”
He bounced his way to the door of their home, waiting patiently for her to lug the surprisingly heavy crate into the shed. He was even still behaving himself by the time she returned from picking up the things she dropped in her haste. There wasn’t a single protest from the ferrorabbit as she washed over his wounds with warm water, nor when she asked him to wait as she cut up a small salad for him using an extra portion of her rationed vegetables. Finally, once everything else was gone, she tentatively sifted through the box until she found a chunk of something that didn’t look so sharp, then offered it to Hoppit skeptically.
As startling as it was to see him bite through metal without issue, she couldn’t help but tear up again at how pleased he looked with the bizarre addition to his diet. He munched through the first piece, then stared at the box while pawing at the air, asking for more. She obliged through wet laughs, feeling lighter than she had since he first gazed at her from his burrow, alone and afraid, just like she was.
Her little baby was happy, and that made it okay.
Next
—
A/N: Thank you to my Patrons, new and returning! No Thanks, Emmanuel, and Megathor join the others who get to read 1 chap ahead!
submitted by WaveOfWire to HFY [link] [comments]
PRs: u/anakist & u/BroDogIsMyName
- - - - -
It had been a few weeks since Altier was brought to the run-down shack that his black-scaled companion likely called home, and he could now comfortably say he was accustomed to the…household’s routine. The kobold typically left at the crack of dawn, returned a little after noon, and occasionally left again to forage until nightfall. When the weather was bad or there wasn’t a particular need for something, they half-heartedly chased their rabbit around for a bit, which usually ended with a bout of quiet petting while everyone got ready for the night. It was always amusing to see the energetic side of what he had come to know as a relatively lazy loaf of an animal. As for the routine of the ferrorabbit in question… Well…it was at least more interesting than expected.
Hoppit would begin his own series of activities as soon as his caretaker left—the first of which being a check of every nook and cranny in the shed. He sniffed at anything that caught his interest, varying from morning to morning, but he gave every object or corner its due attention. Once he was satisfied with that, he would eat some of the ragged plants that made up most of his diet, take a drink from his bowl, then jump onto the tro— table and plop himself down, his ears pivoting towards the door. It was hard to say if the lounging spot had been established before Altier’s arrival, but it was somewhat amusing to pretend that the little rabbit was standing guard over his core—if it wasn’t for one particular part of the morning ritual, that is.
Indeed, the ferrorabbit had a habit of licking the obsidian orb that sat in the middle of the room, which thankfully didn’t seem to perturb the system enough to give Altier a headache. He was confused when it first happened, but it was commonplace enough now that he barely acknowledged it. A part of him liked that he was getting attention as a core, even if it was delivered via a strange grooming method. The closest he got to being acknowledged as something other than ‘the dungeon’ was through an unfortunate misunderstanding that he could never properly rectify. He supposed that was hardly worth thinking about now, though; too much time had passed for there to be anyone left to correct. The little oddity of his mornings would have to suffice.
There wasn’t much to comment on as far as the rest of the day’s happenings. Hoppit would end his loafing by shaking his head and ears in a way that filled the silence with soft clacks, give the core a customary tongue bath, then jump off the table to nose his way out of the shed through a hole that was hidden by the storage cart against the wall. Where the rabbit went was anyone’s guess, but he always returned before anyone noticed he was gone, and often did so while covered in small cuts and scratches. Any blood from the lacerations was quickly licked off before it could be seen by the kobold, and in the event that the scaly caretaker happened to return earlier than expected, Hoppit would scurry over to the bundles of blankets to finish the cleanup in secret.
Today looked to be following the usual pattern. The kobold left bright and early with various gardening tools and a wooden pail, and Hoppit had since set off into the great unknown for one reason or another. Hopefully, he returned less injured than usual. It was frustrating to admit that Altier had begun to grow rather fond of the fluffy creature, and seeing the thing come back hurt was bothersome. Was it off looking for food? There wasn’t a whole lot given to it, so that was a possibility, and it could be getting into fights over whatever it found. That still didn’t explain why the animal was so thin, and Altier didn’t have enough to go off of to think of a potential solution. He wanted to help it in some way, like by summoning a creature to act as an escort, or maybe just by manifesting something edible like he once could. No, he could only stare at the ‘Synchronizing…’ that occupied his menu, wishing he had more information to work with.
He never thought he would miss the bombardment of notifications and their lingering presence that filled the edge of his mental vision; at least with that he could surmise enough to hazard some kind of action. Even knowing why the menu was acting the way it did would be a start. Yet, try as he might, there wasn’t a history for him to reference anymore, and he had nothing to work with. He was confident the last message had asked him to ‘accept’ something, then took his befuddled ponderance as an answer, but he was no closer to an explanation for what it wanted, nor why it prompted him in the first place. He just didn’t have another experience to compare against, since nothing like that had ever happened before. Not that he was ever in much of a position to allow it.
The entire purpose of having Altier inhabit a core was for him to become a dungeon of Decay, which entailed all the skeletons, poisons, acids, and whatever else came to mind when one pictured the concept. ‘Living’ creatures were something he only had the chance to experiment with near the beginning of his new existence, though he never dabbled past the first few insects before transitioning to the mindless undead. Having a thinking, feeling, breathing entity touch his core was a rite reserved only for the adventurers and soldiers that bested his trials, and that was usually a painful experience. Now, he had spent what he could only guess was hours being held by a kobold, followed by having a rabbit bump against him, and neither felt like what he came to expect. Instead, both had led to a completely novel reaction from the system. The strange circumstances put him at a bit of a loss as to what it all meant for him.
Sure, he could dismiss the deluge of errors from his companion’s involvement by pointing to the numerous ‘corrupted’ messages before it, and Hoppit was a part of mostly unexplored territory, but the lack of clarity nagged at the back of his mind constantly. Being exposed to activity after potential decades or centuries of unchanging solitude made him despise the informational dead end. If he couldn’t make sense of the rabbit’s circumstances, then he didn’t have much hope of deciphering the reason for why his system was misbehaving so terribly. He also didn't know much about the one who owned the decrepit holdings he was housed inside.
He still wasn’t sure what drove the kobold to take him from the cave. His suspicion of becoming traded goods fell flat after the first week or so, and he hadn’t noticed any cult-like behaviour, which was promising. Granted, a lack of nefarious behaviour didn’t mean there was a lack of nefarious intent, but he didn’t get the impression his companion held that either. The kobold itself didn’t seem quite settled on an opinion of his core, though it was up for debate if the hesitation was due to knowing what he was or not. They seemed to mull something over before bed each night, yet never reached a satisfactory conclusion, staring at the obsidian orb through weary grey eyes until they eventually forced themselves into sleep.
Whatever the underlying reasoning for his abduction was, he had observed enough to know that the kobold didn’t deserve to live in destitution. As beaten as the shed might be, they cared for it as best they could, and did so without a single groan or grimace of complaint. The floors were cleaned with a tattered rag and fresh water, dust was removed regularly, and any stray mess that Hoppit made was dealt with promptly. They even took the time to wipe off his core, which was possibly where the ferrorabbit got the idea to start licking him. The only time Altier had seen discontent from the kobold was when they didn’t find much during their foraging, and thus couldn’t give any treats to the excited and bouncy herbivore.
He wasn’t aware that a creature’s face could make such a painfully broken expression, and he was quick to decide that he never wanted to see it again.
Vexingly, his metaphorical hands were tied; a dungeon could only influence their Domain, and given the state of his system, not even that option was available to him. All he could do was glare at the rotting wooden beams that held up the roof and remember when such an issue didn’t exist. It would have taken a mere flicker of thought and a paltry sum of mana to mend the struts when he was a proper dungeon. He could even outright reinforce the structure by weaving in other materials, leaving the appearance as it was while making everything stronger than iron. Well, he once could. Working with other affinities was something that came to him after absorbing the coloured motes left behind by adventurers, and the accursed stone that stole his mana had taken that ability as well.
An attempt was made anyway, his will ordering the deteriorated wood to absorb any trace metals from the ground, but it was no use. He couldn’t feel the iron or stones beneath the shed like he would have been able to before, all but confirming his suspicion that his connection to the Earth element had slipped away. Nature was much the same; the only way he knew when Hoppit had returned most days was from the subtle noise and the essence of injury. The other attributes—Air, Flame, Luma, Shadow, and so on—were ones he never experimented with to any real extent, so it was less noticeable when he lost his grasp on them. Perhaps they faded early. Either way, all he had left was a waning cognizance of his own alignment, and that wasn’t of much use to him. If he had any appreciable mana income, then perhaps he could do something, but he wasn’t even sure what the upkeep of his current Domain might be. It was entirely possible that he was running on a deficit, which would offer a reason for why his system had been so—
[Do#$@n Ex@#d$%^&d! CRe@#r H-H-H-HoPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPPP—]
[Errrrrrr—]
[Sy$%^hroni%^$zing…]
[Creeee-tu— Hoppit ha@$ esttttb-hed terrrrrrr-ity f^#% t$e dun@&$n!]
- - - - -
“Well then,” he mumbled to himself, taking in the strange scene behind the shed. For one, he could actually view a small distance beyond the structure now, and two, there was a rather proud-looking Hoppit sitting on his haunches before a pair of significantly less prideful examples of the species. They looked quite a bit bigger than the lazy loaf Altier had come to know, yet they were more cut up and dejected than his furry friend. That answered where the injuries had been coming from, he supposed. Hoppit was probably running off to bash heads with whatever animal population existed here beforehand, and they had only just reached a consensus on who was in charge. Impressive.
One of Hoppit’s ears turned back towards the shed, his head following suit as he gave a lagomorph’s approximation of a ‘Look what I did!’ smile. Altier blanked out mentally, but didn’t have time to question anything before the new leader of the local rabbits imperiously pointed a paw towards the surrounding forest, which was equally surreal to witness. Most surprising of all, the…subordinates? The other ferrorabbits did as commanded, keeping their forms small as they took off into the foliage. Soft clacks came from Hoppit’s pleased shake of his head, then he too left the area with only a slightly lopsided bounce to his stride.
The man-turned-core could only gape at what he saw. Were animals always so…expressive? Had Hoppit heard him? What in the world was happening? Why had Hoppit’s personal conquest led to Altier’s Domain expanding?
He lamented not having fingers, nor temples to rub with them. His system was a garbled mess of errors and inconsistent messages, his residence was falling apart at the seams, his companion was someone who abducted him from the dungeon, yet never did anything past that, and his first real experience with an animal was turning out to be more confusing than he thought possible.
All of this was after an unknown amount of time spent commanding legions of undead to strengthen the very people who he would later learn had lied to and manipulated him, making him into a nightmarish entity just to bolster the power of their forces. He almost missed the days spent gazing out of a mossy window. At least then he knew what to expect.
Nothing made sense anymore.
= = = = =
The soft sound of roots ripping free from soil suddenly stopped, only to be followed by a dull thud of Ceele’s palm slapping against the ground to catch her fall before she landed on her rear. She righted herself with her tail and tossed the stubborn weed into a pile with the others. No matter how many mornings she did this, they always seemed to replace themselves faster than she could remove the pesky things. A sigh slipped from her muzzle as she set about grabbing the next one embedded in the vegetable garden.
Aches and spreading stiffness flared up, but went ignored as she neared the end of her duties, though she was well aware that they would come back with force once she tried to settle down for the day. The impending soreness was an inevitable byproduct of spending so much time working. Still, she knew that if it wasn’t for the kindly old couple that allowed her to call their shed home, she would still be sleeping beneath the stars while making sure nothing tried to get at her Hoppit. Even if it was just a part of the deal, they were owed this much in return, and she would see it done properly.
The sun bore down on her back as she did her usual tasks, which was a departure from the slightly overcast weather as of late. It looked somewhat promising when she checked in the wee hours of the morning, yet as her gardening duties dragged on, so too did the intensity of such a clear sky. A disappointed glance at the empty wooden bucket on the edge of the field was quickly corrected. She hadn’t thought to refill it at the river after watering the crops, and her parched throat was making its protests known, while also reminding her that there wasn’t much water left at home either. One more thing to take care of when she was done.
A gruff cough brought her attention towards the old kobold resting his back against a tree some distance away, safely shaded from the unforgiving rays beaming down. Her displeasure at having yet more to do was hastily wiped away. She was undecided on what to think of the detached audience, but looking so sour while upholding her side of the agreement wouldn’t reflect well on her. Hopefully, he hadn’t seen it. Not that she could tell if he did; he always had the same expression when he watched her work. The elder kobold’s arms were crossed, a finger tapping absently against his bicep, while his tail sat motionless on the grass, the muddy red colour of his scales standing out amongst the greens and browns. ‘Makis,’ was his name, assuming her memory served.
Makis had taken to observing her every so often, usually propping himself against this or that at a distance, the unwavering scowl being as unnerving as it was belying of his age. Somewhat loose skin sagged a bit around his jowls and neck, yet the rest of his face was still taut from how much time he spent examining red-hot metal, and his arms were marred with countless burns and cuts from his profession. He held an oppressive aura, though the crinkles around his eyes and muzzle suggested he smiled as frequently as he glowered, even if Ceele was yet to see the former. There was only the same judgmental expression aimed at her when he was around. She could only hope that he didn’t take offence to some unintended slight, but she didn’t know him well enough to say what might be considered one.
They hadn’t spoken since she took up residence on the outskirts of his land. His wife was the one to introduce them, but it was quickly established that he had no intention of being a chatty individual. He led Ceele to the shed hidden amongst the trees on the edge of the property, then dismissed her with only a grunt coming from the elderly kobold. She supposed that it was for the best. Her experience in socializing was centred around convincing others to employ her, and there hadn’t been much of an opportunity to expand her horizons while living a life on the road. If that had been the end of their interactions, she would have swiftly written the terseness off, but he appeared every few days, taking up residence beneath the shade as he watched her work, never speaking a single word. At least he didn’t openly protest her presence, yet she figured that would be easier to manage. He wouldn’t be such an enigma then.
There wasn’t a whole lot she knew about him besides his penchant for ‘supervision,’ and anything beyond that was what his wife had volunteered during the rare opportunity they had to chat. She was told that Makis worked the smithy out front, and although he had retired from doing so in an official capacity, she could still regularly hear his hammer as she tended to the garden, so she figured he kept himself busy most days. It made her wonder what was so interesting about a vagrant like herself, but when there was so little else to do, she could see how anything could be made worth the attention. It was just him and his wife living in the once bustling home, after all; the couple’s children had long since grown up and made families of their own.
She noticed his gaze shift elsewhere as she tugged yet another stubborn intruder from the soil, his arms falling from across his chest and the perpetually worn displeasure melting to that of curiosity. He wandered off shortly after, and she had to make an effort not to fall onto her tail as the pressure on her shoulders unexpectedly evaporated. Did something happen?
Ceele shook her head free of the distracting thought. It wasn’t her business if he grew bored with watching her work. As long as no one voiced any complaints, she could only assume that she was doing a satisfactory job. Maybe he finally decided that he didn’t need to be so watchful because she was doing well! That could be it, right?
A glance at the somewhat sloppily maintained garden erased the false confidence from her face, but she was just as quick to focus on finishing up, unwilling to allow darker musings to fester. Thankfully, there didn’t seem to be anything else that needed her intervention. The weeds were all uprooted, the soil was appropriately dampened, and her check for pesky insects or wildlife turned up nothing to worry about. She was free for the rest of the day!
…Or she would be free—as soon as she finished the last of her tasks, anyway.
The black-scaled kobold got up from her crouch unsteadily, shivering and wincing from the pins and needles in her legs. She would have to remember to stretch more often; it was far too easy to forgo that kind of thing just to make the overall work go slightly faster. Her hand reached out to grab the pile of weeds and put them into the bucket as she ran through what needed to be done before she could properly relax. Hoppit’s food needed to be washed, she needed to bathe, and they were running low on water anyway, so she would have to visit the river. Just the thought of dragging herself into the forest again made her muscles protest, but she wouldn’t have the energy to do it later. She forced the smile that had started to fall and took the first of many steps.
- - - - -
The river wasn’t too far away, only taking a few minutes of traipsing through the dense woodlands until she reached her destination. It was an idyllic little spot. The trees thinned out to allow a grassy bank along the water, and there was an appreciably gentle slope from shallows to depths, making for a convenient place to take care of various needs. She had discovered this place during her travels, and it was where a kind older woman found her.
Ceele was washing off at the time, with Hoppit safely taking shelter from the outside underneath the bundled blankets while he waited. The trickle of the stream brushing against rocks covered the sound of footsteps, so she was rather surprised when an aged voice called out to ask if she was okay. Her first reaction was to distance herself and apologize—the why didn’t matter, but she had learned that most people were more lenient of her presence if she seemed apologetic for it, and she usually was. The elderly kobold just laughed at her scrambling, tacking on an assurance that there was no need for modesty. The woman was blind, apparently, which explained how Ceele’s blackened colours hadn’t deterred her.
Strangely enough, there was a comforting sense of ease around the one who introduced herself as Hira. It was a sort of presence that Ceele could only vaguely remember, and it drew her close enough to speak as she finished bathing. The conversation wasn’t anything profound, of course—they hardly delved deeper than surface-level small talk—but Hira lost her smile as she listened to the younger kobold. By the end of it, the old woman posed a series of questions with a dark inflection to her voice, and Ceele struggled to find an answer.
‘Are you tired of looking for something that only slips away? Are you tired of running? Do you really want to be scared and alone?’
If the silence bothered Hira, then it didn’t show. She had simply held out a hand and offered Ceele a way of life that didn’t involve wondering where she would be spending the night, nor entailed cowering in the brush while fearsome predators roamed freely. It would be a simple existence of few fortunes, but it was safe, and it was honest. All she had to do was say yes.
Ceele denied it at first, partially because she knew most people despised Hobbit's species, and partially because she couldn’t shake the offer being too good to be true. Hira was quick to propose a compromise; Ceele could take residence in the gardening shed that had fallen from use, and to satiate the nagging sense of an unfair deal, she would be put in charge of maintaining the garden itself. All Hira wanted was to ‘see’ her favourite space bloom again, since she couldn’t take care of it anymore. The black-scaled kobold stared longingly at where Hoppit was, his little body shivering from the prolonged cold and fear that he would be hurt if he left the blankets hiding him. It was with a heavy guilt that she accepted Hira’s offer, keeping quiet about her true reason for doing so.
That was in the past, however, though she thought about it every time she stopped by and saw the smooth rocks where she and Hira first met. Eventually, she might gather the courage to admit that she was housing a ‘pest’ and beg for forgiveness. Until then, she would just work her hardest to prove it wasn’t a mistake to give her a home. That her endless efforts weren’t meaningless. That Hoppit deserved to be more than a ‘pest.’
That Ceele was more than something she had no control over being.
She cleared her head a bit and started on the reason she came all this way. Her dress was rather easy to wash in the meandering water, and the trees provided a suitable place for it to dry in the sunlight and light breeze. The weeds were fine with a thorough rinse near in the shallows, but taking care of her own hygiene required her to wade farther in, though it only came up to her chest in the middle of the rill. Still, she could scrub off the soil and grime, which was all she really needed. Perhaps some simple soaps would help rid her of the pervasive black that stained her skin and scales, but that was beyond her meagre means for the time being, as well as being mere wishful thinking.
She worked past the dreary mindset that settled in when she allowed it, focusing on how serene the river was. The soft birdsong from the trees helped make for a peaceful experience, and she could feel the somewhat chilled liquid basically pour into the aches and pains throughout her body, washing away the stiffness from spending so long under the unerring sun. It was nice to escape reality and let thoughts drift while held buoyant by calmer waters.
Yet the bliss was short-lived. Even if winter was gone, spring was still far from warming the waters enough for her to laze about for too long. She dragged herself from the soft current and fetched her dress from the low-lying branch she left it to dry on. It was still a touch damp, but it wasn’t anything a bit of time in front of the fireplace wouldn’t fix.
Ceele was only a short distance away from home when she heard a gravelly male voice, but it was the flicker of sight between the trees that made her drop what was in her arms and lunge into a sprint.
Makis stood just outside the gardening shed, a ferrorabbit held at arm’s length by rusty crimson hands placed on the scruff and haunch, the rabbit’s little ears flattened as fear filled its tiny face. Her eyes widened further when she noticed the small stains of blood in his light brown fur. They found out about him. Ephemeral claws of blackness clutched at her soul, ripping the very fabric she was made of as an unseen beast smiled, eager to take yet one more thing from her. Her Hoppit. Her baby. Her everything.
“Hoppit!” she shrieked, her words all but tearing out of her throat in desperation. Frozen blood coursed through her veins, yet poured into exhausted limbs. She broke through the treeline with no regard for the branches slashing against her flesh, panic making each sting fade before it could be processed. The grizzled glare of the older kobold snapped towards her, his usual scowl picking up an actual air of intensity that she never thought could be absent, the promise of violence lurking in his eyes. She skidded to a stop a few paces away, the lump in her throat threatening to clog her airway. “S-stop hurting him!”
“Didn’t,” he barked back, his tone even yet firm. “Cuts ain’t me. I’d’a done worse if’a had ta mind ta.”
The blatant declaration snapped her from blind panic, although his apparent anger didn’t do her fear any favours. “B-but… Then how…”
“‘Hoppit.’ Named it, did’cha?” he grunted, ignoring her confusion and bobbing the rabbit to get her attention again. His gaze shifted back to the animal, the flames of ire cooling slightly. “I was wonderin’ why yer plots ain’t dead yet. Suppose this critter’s why.”
One of her hands hesitantly reached out until she pulled it back, while the other clutched at her chest to stop her heart from hammering against her ribs. She couldn’t act rashly. Not while her baby was in his arms. “I—”
“Soft thing, ain’t it,” the elder kobold commented curiously, cutting her off.
“Y-yes?” she returned reluctantly, struggling to stop herself from lashing out to reclaim the ferrorabbit in his grasp.
“Like fine silk.” Makis tipped and tilted the animal, inspecting this and that with a deep-seated frown, all while Hoppit silently looked to her for help. The pit in her stomach grew. She needed to get him back, but how?
Ceele swallowed the dense dread as she tried to formulate some sort of plan, stumbling over her words and forced smile. “I-it’s nice! Isn’t it nice?”
His eyes snapped back to burrow into her own with hatred. “Wasn’t a compliment, girly.”
“B-but you—”
He released Hoppit’s lower half to jab a claw at the various spikes around his body, plying them with minimal force. “Look. See this? These’r suppose ta break bone. ‘Specially when he’s stiff like this. Ain’t no way I should be able ta bend ‘em. He’s barely more than a walkin’ carcass—all skin ‘n stick. He’s gonna get picked up by a wandering pecker if he keeps pissin’ about out ‘ere. It’s a wonder he’s still kickin’. What’cha feeding ‘em?” His gaze dropped from her face to the rest of her, disgust curling his muzzle into a snarl. “N’ver mind. I can guess.”
She felt the dampness build at the edges of her vision, unprepared to not only worry for Hoppit's immediate health, but also to face such harsh criticism while she was so vulnerable. “I… I try to make sure he has…”
Makis crouched to release the ferrorabbit onto the ground, Ceele dropping to her knees the moment he did. The terrified lagomorph wasted no time, bolting towards his adoptive mother and leaping into her arms, shaking uncontrollably. The rust-coloured ‘bold stared as she started soothingly stroking the animal’s back.
“Yer given’ em the weeds, aren’t ya?” he stated rather than asked. She gave a teary nod when her voice wouldn’t respond for her. The old kobold drew a breath, letting it go in an exasperated sigh as he stood back up, his expression becoming more impatient than antagonistic. “What else?”
“I— Um…”
“What. Else?”
“W-whatever I c-can find!” she sputtered out. Hoppit tried to hide against her neck, prompting her to tighten her hold. She couldn’t stop herself from shrinking, the guilt and confusion pulling her head down. “R-roots, vegetables, fruits… I give them as often as I can.”
His glare continued unimpeded, his cadence cold. “That it?”
There were a million things Ceele wanted to say. A part of her wanted to beg him not to kick them out of the first safe place she had in longer than she could remember, but she couldn’t find the words. She wanted to deny the judgmental tone that stabbed into her insecurity surrounding how good of a job she was doing with Hoppit, but the deadened void in her chest swallowed her pride whole. She knew he was right to critique her. That she was failing in the only thing that mattered anymore. That the feeling of loss would return.
“I try,” she whispered through the beginnings of a sob. “I try to find more, but he needs someone around, and I have to work the garden, so there’s only so much time I can spend looking. He won’t even eat all of what I bring back…” Tears dripped off her cheeks as she aimed a desolate smile at her furry friend. “He wants to make sure I have some too.”
“Yer killin’ em,” Makis pointed out plainly, crossing his arms. “He’ll be dead ‘fore the summer at this rate.”
“I know!” she shouted, forcing back the memories of insidious murmurs that lurked in the back of her mind, eager to creep into her ears again. The hate-filled stares that followed her, the rumours that arrived in towns before she had the chance to make an impression, and the guilt that loomed over her like an executioner's axe… “I know I am… I just… I don’t know what he needs. I don’t know how to make him happy…but I try. I’m trying…”
“…Yer an idiot, girly.”
She looked up to see the elder kobold walking away without another word. Her eyes fell to Hoppit, the ferrorabbit pressing himself against her as much as he could. He was small, thin, soft, and growing weaker by the day, but he never let it keep him down for long. No, he always showed his best for her, giving her joy that wasn’t provided anywhere else. She saw the thin cuts and dried blood, though she didn’t know where they came from, nor how he got out of the shed in the first place. But that was okay. Hoppit was okay, and she had Hoppit, so everything was okay, right?
…But how much longer would everything stay okay? How much longer until her efforts weren’t enough, and she was left desperately reaching for fading memories of what once was? How much longer until she killed her baby too?
How much longer until she was alone again?
Soft footsteps drew near, pulling her from the spiralling thoughts that threatened to gnaw at her soul. Damp, blurry eyes fell on Makis returning with a small wooden crate, the older kobold stopping a few steps away. He dropped the box, a deep, rattling thud produced as it impacted the ground, making Hoppit flinch in her arms. Ceele blinked as she kept him calm, then blinked again, looking up at the man for answers.
“The name, girly,” he spat in irritation. “Ferrorabbit. Ther’ Earth aligned creatures; they need metals. They don’t care where they get it, but they need lots of it. Iron, copper, tin, lead—raw crystal, if they can find it. You name it, they’ll take a chunk out of it. It's why they bother farmers so much; the best soil’s usually top’a gem deposits, ‘n the little bastards have no issue burrowing deep to get it. Dries up the element’s energy ‘n makes the crops weak.”
Ceele’s mouth opened and closed, each unsuccessful attempt to speak making her feel smaller and smaller. More and more lost. Why was he telling her this? How did he know? What was in the—
He kicked the crate with the side of his foot. “Scraps. Don’t’cha look at me like that. I’m a smith, girly. I might be old and retired, but I still work a forge. Now, this ain’t anything pure—it’s just slag and hunks—but I’m sure the critter won’t mind. Your little gardenin’ project pays off, ‘n I’ll see which of my contacts can get in some better ore.”
She ripped her eyes away from the box and met the perpetual scowl of the old kobold, seeing a warmth behind the hostility that she had never noticed before. “…Why?”
He scoffed in amusement, which looked somewhat menacing on such a hardened expression. “Yer a touch stupid, girly, but the missus adores ya, ‘n yer a good worker.” A shadow of a smile formed on his face. “Hira spent more evenings asking ‘bout how the plots are doin’ than I got time in the day. She’d bite my head off if I noticed a critter like that sufferin’ and didn’t lend a hand. ‘Specially when it’s obvious you ain’t tryin’ ta hurt the thing.”
“B-but the garden… Isn’t he a problem?”
Makis rolled his eyes, turning with a dismissive wave of his hand. “If he was, he’da killed it by now. I’d say he’s been keepin’ the others clear ‘n got scratched up for the trouble. That’s more reason to feed ‘em right in my eyes; pay the poor bastard his dues.” He paused after a few steps, shooting her one last incredulous glance. “‘N the rabbit’s right. You’re not much better off than he is. Eat. Before the missus takes my head, preferably. I ain’t need ta hear her worryin’ over you more than I already do.”
And with that, he walked off back to the house, leaving Ceele to sit stunned on the ground with Hoppit quietly nuzzling into her.
“Hoppit…?”
The ferrorabbit perked an ear and gently licked her collar. Fresh tears ran rivulets down her face, yet they didn’t weigh her down. They felt freeing. She adjusted her hold on the rabbit and held him out, taking in the small cuts and numerous other injuries she had never noticed before. He stared back at her with worried eyes.
“You’ve been busy, huh?” she cooed quietly, doing her best to keep her voice from cracking. He shrunk in her hands. “I told you to stay home, baby. What if something happened to you? I wouldn’t know where you went, and…”
Her protests died out as she saw what was unmistakably guilt on his little face. She brought him back to her chest and cleared her throat.
“It’s alright, Hoppit. If… If you want to help momma, then we can work together, okay? Just…please don’t go off getting hurt… I don’t know what I’d do without you…” The rabbit didn’t reply, and she was pretty sure she had never heard him make any sounds that weren’t his happy little ear clacks, but she chose to interpret the nuzzling as an agreement. “Such a smart boy…”
She took a breath and wiped off the excess moisture from her cheeks, setting Hoppit down on the ground. “Let’s bring Mr. Makis’ gift in, and then I need to go get more water so we can clean you up, okay?”
He bounced his way to the door of their home, waiting patiently for her to lug the surprisingly heavy crate into the shed. He was even still behaving himself by the time she returned from picking up the things she dropped in her haste. There wasn’t a single protest from the ferrorabbit as she washed over his wounds with warm water, nor when she asked him to wait as she cut up a small salad for him using an extra portion of her rationed vegetables. Finally, once everything else was gone, she tentatively sifted through the box until she found a chunk of something that didn’t look so sharp, then offered it to Hoppit skeptically.
As startling as it was to see him bite through metal without issue, she couldn’t help but tear up again at how pleased he looked with the bizarre addition to his diet. He munched through the first piece, then stared at the box while pawing at the air, asking for more. She obliged through wet laughs, feeling lighter than she had since he first gazed at her from his burrow, alone and afraid, just like she was.
Her little baby was happy, and that made it okay.
Next
—
A/N: Thank you to my Patrons, new and returning! No Thanks, Emmanuel, and Megathor join the others who get to read 1 chap ahead!
2024.06.09 10:52 Count-Daring243 Best Floating Record Players
 | submitted by Count-Daring243 to u/Count-Daring243 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/xeg82on7fi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=148b7549e256e3a9c8dd6a337357ec6bca8d3fcd Discover the latest innovative designs in the world of vinyl records with our Floating Record Players roundup. These cutting-edge turntables elevate your listening experience with their mesmerizing floating records, bringing together old school charm and modern technology. Our collection features the best options on the market, helping you choose the perfect floating record player for your home or office. Dive into our top picks and embark on a journey of sound that transcends time. The Top 18 Best Floating Record Players
Reviews🔗3-in-1 Jensen Turntable CD Radio, Cassette and AM/FM Stereo Speakershttps://preview.redd.it/pphomm08fi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d1afc143aeada563df1155e2069f55c651488a49 I recently got the Jensen 3-speed turntable CD radio, cassette, and AM/FM set and I can't express how happy I am with my purchase. I remember using my dad's old turntable and the nostalgia it brings back is just priceless. This one is a modern twist to the classic turntable - it plays not only vinyl records but also CDs and cassettes. Plus, it has an AM/FM tuner so I can listen to my favorite radio stations. What I love about this product is that it is versatile. The turntable allows me to play 3-speed records, which gives me a variety of options. The CD player accepts both regular and rewriteable discs, while the cassette deck, although it looks a bit fragile, still works perfectly fine. This device also comes with features such as repeat of songs and tracks, skip/search forward and backward and random play. The blue back-lit LCD display and programmable memory adds a nice touch to the whole setup. It's super user-friendly; even my grandma could figure it out! And let's not forget about the stereo headphone jack, perfect for those late-night listening sessions without disturbing anyone. However, one downside I noticed is that the build quality isn't top-notch. It feels a bit plasticky and might not hold up over time. Another thing is that the speakers lack bass. But hey, considering how affordable this product is, these are minor quibbles. In conclusion, if you're looking for a nostalgic music player that combines old school charm with modern convenience, the Jensen 3-speed turntable CD radio, cassette, and AM/FM set is definitely worth checking out. Just remember to handle it with care due to its somewhat delicate build. 🔗Modern Vinyl Record Player Stand with Bluetoothhttps://preview.redd.it/h9zxx2g8fi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b4169c22400cc1794b618a203ddc4b335394d048 First of all, let me tell you about my experience with this Victrola Liberty Bluetooth Record Player. The moment I set my eyes on it, I was thrilled. Its retro design, available in on-trend colors, instantly captured my fascination. The built-in features like the CD player, FM radio, and USB player made it a versatile piece of entertainment. Plus, the ability to record from vinyl directly to USB without using a computer was intriguing. The unit stands tall with four long legs and four short rubber feet. This unique design not only adds to its charm but also provides two different decorative options. The dimensions are just right - measuring 17.10 x 15.70 x 11-in and weighing 14.68 lbs. It's easy to move around and fits perfectly into any space. While the sound quality is commendable, filling the room with a rich, full tone, the construction could use some improvement. The turntable feels a bit flimsy, especially the auto-stop button that sometimes fails to work. Also, there's a little wobbling when a record is on, but not enough to cause any skipping. In terms of usability, setting up this record player is a breeze. Even someone who's new to vinyl could get it up and running in no time. The included instructions are concise and clear. However, I did encounter a few issues with the build. First, it seems like there hasn't been much care about handling during shipping. The packaging was good, but it's not enough to prevent some minor damages. Second, I wish the legs could be secured better to ensure they don't pop out from under the record player. Overall, despite its drawbacks, I believe the Victrola Liberty Bluetooth Record Player does offer a blend of vintage charm and modern convenience. It performs well, especially for its price point, and it's a nice addition to any room's décor. If you're looking for a stylish and functional record player that won't break the bank, I'd recommend giving this one a try. 🔗Audio Technica Fully Automatic Vinyl Record Turntablehttps://preview.redd.it/utr0veq8fi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=343a04abd846c6464653c12782f155540a9996b5 Discover the joy of vinyl with the Audio Technica AT-LP60X-GM automatic turntable. I've been using this product for a while now and it's been a game-changer. The fully automatic belt-drive operation with two speeds, 33-1/3 and 45 RPM, ensures smooth playback of your favorite vinyl records. One of the standout features of this turntable is its anti-resonance, die-cast aluminum platter. This not only adds to the aesthetics but also significantly reduces vibrations and noise during playback, enhancing the overall listening experience. The redesigned tonearm base and headshell have also made a noticeable difference in improved tracking and reduced resonance. The integral Dual Magnet phono cartridge with a replaceable diamond stylus (ATN3600L) provides rich audio quality, promising hours of listening pleasure. The AC adapter manages AC/DC conversion outside of the chassis, effectively reducing noise in the signal chain. What I particularly love about this turntable is its portability and compact design. It's easy to move around and fits seamlessly into any room setting. However, the hinged detachable dust cover could be a bit sturdier to better protect my vinyl records. In terms of performance, this turntable performs exceptionally well, especially given its attractive price point. While it may not impress the audiophiles, it's a perfect introductory turntable for vinyl enthusiasts or anyone looking to explore the world of vinyl. So, if you're in search of a reliable, easy-to-use turntable that won't break the bank, I highly recommend the Audio Technica AT-LP60X-GM automatic turntable. You won't be disappointed! 🔗Pro-Ject's Dark Side of The Moon Special Edition Turntablehttps://preview.redd.it/u019e779fi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7141426e947c899face9338798a255c0f559ad01 I've been using Pro-Ject's The Dark Side of The Moon Special Edition Turntable for a couple of months now, and I must say it's truly an audiophile's dream. The first thing that caught my attention was its striking design, which pays homage to Pink Floyd's iconic album cover. That, combined with the high-quality materials, makes it a standout piece in any home. The sound quality is simply phenomenal. The flat silicon belt connecting to the AC motor ensures stable speeds, while the low-resonance tonearm in black aluminum and acrylic creates a captivating visual appeal. I love how the included Pick it PRO Special Edition delivers the rich sound expected from a Dark Side Of The Moon turntable, which is enhanced by the dimmable LED rainbow backlight. However, there have been some hiccups along the way. One issue was the subpar power supply provided, which caused a buzzing noise in the speakers. I had to purchase an additional alim with a terrestrial to resolve this problem, adding extra expense to an already hefty price tag. Another minor inconvenience was the non-included prism element from the video promotional material, an optional accessory that costs another 100€. It wasn't mentioned in the initial purchase, which caught me off guard. Additionally, the support for the arm and the RGB backlight needed to be hand-tightened due to their lack of stability, but this wasn't a major setback. In summary, if you're a music enthusiast who's ready to delve into the world of vinyl, Pro-Ject's The Dark Side of The Moon Special Edition Turntable may just be the perfect addition to your collection. Its exceptional sound quality and striking design make it worthy of a high-end turntable. Just be prepared for a few extra expenses along the way. 🔗Victrola Retro 3-Speed Record Playerhttps://preview.redd.it/2p9ye8q9fi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=262aeb1d88bb14c97fa30898ba1ff7faf5f6c75a I recently got my hands on the Victrola 3-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player with Built-in Speakers, and it's been quite a nostalgic journey for me. This record player is a perfect blend of old-school charm and modern convenience. The three-speed turntable (33 1/3, 45, 78 RPM) plays all my favorite vinyls, transporting me back to the days when music was a tangible experience. One feature that really stands out is the ability to record your favorite music directly to a USB, no computer needed. It's like having a personalized mixtape from the past. Plus, its Bluetooth compatibility lets me stream music wirelessly from my smart device, making it versatile for both old and new tunes. However, there are some downsides too. The build quality feels a bit flimsy, and the tone arm can be quite slow to lower, which might annoy some users. Additionally, the sound quality isn't top-notch compared to higher-end models, but considering the price point, it's quite reasonable. In conclusion, if you're looking for a budget-friendly record player with a touch of vintage charm, the Victrola 3-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player might be worth considering. But if you demand impeccable sound and robust build quality, you might want to explore other options. 🔗Crosley Cruiser Plus Bluetooth Suitcase Turntable in Tourmalinehttps://preview.redd.it/e9f5grw9fi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=23f6d736b546410a2749d368ed0040f458a0baae Once a vinyl enthusiast, always a vinyl enthusiast. That's my motto ever since I got my hands on the Crosley Cruiser Plus Turntable - Tourmaline. It just blends old school music with modern technology seamlessly. When I first unboxed it, I was instantly charmed by its charming suitcase-style shell. It gave off a vintage vibe that I absolutely loved. Plus, the built-in Bluetooth receiver and stereo speakers took the convenience factor up a notch. Navigating through the Turntable is a breeze. The adjustable pitch control and 3-speed feature (33 1/3, 45 & 78 RPM) gave me the flexibility to play any vinyl record I wanted. And don't even get me started on the Bluetooth in/out capability. It was like having a digital music player and a vinyl record player all wrapped into one device. One day, I had the brilliant idea of connecting my phone to the turntable and playing some of my favorite vinyl-to-digital remastered tracks. The sound quality was phenomenal, a perfect blend of digital clarity and analog warmth. Now, if only it didn't skip randomly sometimes. . . Despite the occasional skip, the Crosley Cruiser Plus Turntable has been a reliable and enjoyable companion on my vinyl adventure. It's portable, easy to use, and best of all, it beautifully blends the charm of old school vinyl with the convenience of modern technology. 🔗Bluetooth Vinyl Turntable with 40W Stereo Speakershttps://preview.redd.it/xqruzcdafi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8d18fc2e32f55bcad366bc7d9f0aac1652d078f9 As a music enthusiast, I've had my fair share of turntables, but the Arkrocket Cassini has truly stood out. Upon receiving it, I was blown away by its stunning walnut finish and sleek design. The ease of setup was impressive, making it truly user-friendly. However, what truly captured my attention was the sound quality this turntable delivers. It uses a moving magnet cartridge system, which offers a stable playback, allowing my vinyls to be enjoyed in all their glory. This turntable also supports Bluetooth, giving me the flexibility to connect with wireless speakers or headphones when I want. The included 40Watt bookshelf speakers are a cherry on top, providing clear and powerful sound. The only con I noticed was that the turntable is a bit on the heavier side, making it a little less portable than some other options. However, this is a minor inconvenience for the incredible listening experience it provides. Overall, I highly recommend the Arkrocket Cassini for anyone looking to enhance their vinyl listening experience. 🔗Sony Automatic Bluetooth Record Playerhttps://preview.redd.it/f5aafryafi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0e44dd63e1684ff9a82b4e8174771edb78523630 I recently got my hands on the Sony PS-LX310BT, a sleek and functional record player that's revolutionizing the vinyl listening experience. The first thing that impressed me was its easy setup. Unlike some turntables that can be a real pain to assemble, this one was up and running in no time. One of the standout features of this record player is its Bluetooth connectivity. This allows me to play my vinyl collection on my wireless speakers, giving me more freedom and flexibility when listening to music. Plus, the auto-start function means I can simply press a button and let the music flow, without having to manually lower the tonearm onto the record. Despite its minimalist design, the PS-LX310BT is built to last. Its sturdy construction and smooth operation make it a reliable choice for vinyl lovers, and its attractive appearance makes it a welcome addition to any room. However, I did run into a few issues. For instance, the player's tonearm wasn't always able to pick up the record grooves, leading to some skipping and stuttering. Additionally, the player's built-in pre-amplifier wasn't as powerful as I'd like, making it difficult to get the full range of sound out of my vinyl. Overall, I'm quite happy with my purchase. The Sony PS-LX310BT is a solid record player that combines modern technology with the classic sound of vinyl. While it's not perfect, it's definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a new turntable. 🔗Fuse Vertical Vinyl Record Player with Bluetooth and FM Radiohttps://preview.redd.it/yll4ip2bfi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=10515f0712b1ae3193d86caeac5b0695b73338f4 I recently purchased the Fuse Vert Vertical Vinyl Record Player that comes with Bluetooth and FM radio, and boy, am I impressed! The sleek vertical design is perfect for my modern apartment, and it's a great conversation starter when friends come over. One of the standout features of this record player is its ability to play 33-1/3, 45, & 78 vinyl records. The ceramic cartridge with a diamond needle delivers a rich mid-end and beautiful upper-range sound. The built-in FM radio, alarm clock, and Bluetooth connectivity make it a versatile device that can be used in different scenarios, like playing MP3s and tuning in to my favorite radio stations. As for the cons, I did face some minor issues with the setup process. The instructions could have been more detailed, but with a little patience, I managed to get it up and running. Additionally, the internal speakers aren't as powerful as I would like, so if you're looking for premium sound quality, you might need to connect it to an external speaker system. Overall, I'm extremely satisfied with the Fuse Vert Vertical Vinyl Record Player. Its unique design, combined with its versatile features, has made it a valuable addition to my home entertainment setup. If you're in the market for a stylish and functional record player, I highly recommend giving this one a try. 🔗Stylish Modern Sleeper Chair with Linen Fabrichttps://preview.redd.it/i396tngbfi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d7d85d348f04d9976fc88a557a92fee9e49cefc7 I recently got my hands on the Victrola Stream Onyx, a modern turntable that seamlessly integrates with my Sonos system at home. This sleek black beauty was easy to set up - all it took was a quick scan of the provided QR code, and I was off to the races with the intuitive Victrola app. The first thing that stood out for me was the sturdy, high-quality build of the turntable. It looks like a piece of art in my living room, and the matte black finish pairs perfectly with the rest of my Sonos setup. But let's talk sound quality; it's simply fantastic. Listening to vinyl through my Sonos system is an experience I don't want to miss now, whether it's playing old classics or exploring new indie gems. One standout feature I absolutely love is the turntable's automatic tone arm lift function. It makes switching tracks so much easier, and you never have to worry about leaving the needle on a record when you're done playing. The illuminated control knob is also a welcome touch, allowing me to control my entire Sonos system right from the turntable itself. However, no product is perfect, and the Onyx does have its drawbacks. I occasionally experience some dropped connections with my Sonos setup, which can be frustrating if you're in the middle of playing a record. All in all, the Victrola Stream Onyx has been an excellent addition to my vinyl collection and Sonos system. Its sleek design and superior sound quality make it worth the investment, and it's the perfect companion for vinyl enthusiasts who want to stream their favorite records throughout their home. 🔗Crosley Coda Modern Vinyl Record Player - Blackhttps://preview.redd.it/991f0h6cfi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=15ca30ce13cea65ecf7ec545b1843c76aaade1dc Using the Crosley Coda Shelf System has completely transformed my listening experience. Right from unboxing, its sleek black design made me think of a classic timeless piece. The process of setting it up was an absolute breeze, and in no time, I was spinning my first vinyl on its belt-driven 3-speed turntable, which flawlessly plays 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records. One thing that stood out for me was its Bluetooth receiver. Streaming my digital playlists straight to the included stereo speakers was a super convenient feature, making this system perfect for both analog and digital media. The built-in FM radio added to its versatility, enabling me to tune into my favorite local stations. The manual tone arm with a pre-mounted moving magnetic cartridge and adjustable counterweight ensures a smooth and accurate vinyl playback. I also appreciated its compatibility with the NP-15 needle, which I found easy to replace and adjust for optimal sound quality. Despite its compact size, the Crosley Coda Shelf System packs a powerful punch. The vintage-inspired design includes an aluminum platter and a clear dust cover, adding to its aesthetic appeal. However, one little inconvenience I had was the packaging of the slipmat. It arrived folded, affecting the sound quality initially. But with a solution like ironing it flat, this issue was quickly resolved. All in all, the Crosley Coda Shelf System has rekindled my love for vinyl music and its vintage charm. The combination of its fantastic sound quality, stylish design, and versatile functions make it an absolute must-have for music lovers. My only minor gripe – the speakers are somewhat small, and although they provide clear sound, I wouldn't mind if they were just a tad louder. However, this doesn't deter from the overall excellence of the product. So, if you're in the market for a high-quality, stylish, and versatile turntable system, look no further than the Crosley Coda Shelf System. You won't regret it! Buyer's GuideFloating record players offer a unique and stylish way to enjoy your vinyl collection. These innovative devices use magnetic levitation technology to create the illusion of a floating vinyl record as it spins. This not only adds a touch of futuristic flair to your home audio setup, but it also ensures smooth, quiet playback. If you're in the market for a floating record player, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the best option for your needs.Features to Look for in Floating Record Players
https://preview.redd.it/j3czvnzffi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6ca820f78449a702d1907fbd72ddc7ef163c48eb Important Considerations
General Advice for Floating Record Player BuyersWhen shopping for a floating record player, do your research and read customer reviews to get a sense of performance, build quality, and overall satisfaction. Make sure to visit stores or dealers that carry a variety of models, so you can see and hear them in person before making a purchase. Finally, invest in high-quality vinyl records to truly experience the full potential of your new floating record player.FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/jp2r1d2gfi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3037db560b5c63c8048e3abebe755fe101300914 Who is this article for?This article is for music enthusiasts, especially lovers of vinyl records, who are interested in innovative and unique records players. The floating record players featured in this article offer a captivating and futuristic design that adds a new dimension to the listening experience.What is a floating record player?A floating record player is a type of turntable that elevates or "floats" the vinyl record from the platter, creating an illusion of weightlessness. This design, made famous by the [U-Turn Orbit Special Edition](https: //www. gofloating. com/), adds an aesthetic appeal to the player and offers a unique record listening experience.How do floating record players work?Floating record players use a combination of magnetic forces and specially designed components to levitate the vinyl record above the platter. This not only creates an attractive visual effect, but also helps reduce friction and vibrations, potentially improving sound quality. However, it is important to note that not all floating record players may achieve significant improvements in sound quality compared to traditional record players. https://preview.redd.it/t6buqe0hfi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a121fea795bf9dd2c2c949d24a676334bcc63a88 What are the advantages of using a floating record player?
Are there any disadvantages to using a floating record player?
What should I consider before buying a floating record player?
https://preview.redd.it/jb6lkhfhfi5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5955e8d6cd01c384dfddfe3e76660629209feee7 What are some popular floating record players on the market?Some popular and well-regarded floating record players include the [U-Turn Orbit Special Edition](https: //www. gofloating. com/), the [Fluance RT85](https: //www. vinylrecordplayers. org/best-floating-record-player), and the [Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO](https: //www. pro-ject. com/en/products/turntables/turntable-the-box-essential-iii/).How do I maintain a floating record player?Floating record players should be maintained like any other high-quality record player. Ensure that belts are replaced periodically, the stylus is cleaned and replaced when necessary, and the playing surface is kept free of dust. Additionally, always handle records with care, and ensure that your floating record player is placed on a stable and level surface to prevent vibrations.Do floating record players require a specific type of vinyl record?No, floating record players are designed to play standard vinyl records. However, it is advisable to use high-quality vinyl records to ensure optimal sound performance and preserve the longevity of the record player.How do I set up a floating record player?Setting up a floating record player is similar to setting up a traditional record player. Connect the player to your amplifier or preamplifier, place the vinyl record on the platter, and gently lower the stylus onto the record. Ensure that the floating mechanism functions properly and that the record is not touching the platter or other surfaces.What is the difference between manual and automatic operation in floating record players?Manual operation in a floating record player requires the user to manually lift and lower the stylus onto the vinyl record. Automatic operation, on the other hand, utilizes a motorized mechanism to lift and lower the stylus automatically. Both types of operation can provide satisfying performance, and the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference.How long do floating record players typically last?The longevity of a floating record player depends on a number of factors, such as proper maintenance, usage frequency, and the quality of the components used in the player. Well-maintained floating record players can last for many years, but it is crucial to replace belts and styli as needed to keep the player in optimal condition.How can I prevent my floating record player from shaking during use?To prevent shaking in a floating record player, ensure that the player is placed on a stable and level surface and minimize external sources of vibration. For example, avoid placing the player near heavy traffic or a washer and dryer, and consider using a record weight to keep the vinyl record flat on the platter.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.06.09 10:25 Wooleyty I met the Dogman at Raven's Nest and it took my sister. [Part one]
My name is Rory Fars, and my little sister, Lily Fars, is the last family I had left.
A heavy sense of dread settled over me like a suffocating blanket as I sat in the worn leather seat of Lily's old jeep. The car, a relic of our happier days, seemed to groan under our shared sorrow. Beside me, Lily, my best friend, and confidante, absentmindedly twirled a strand of her long, dark hair, which swayed gently in rhythm with the haunting melodies from the oldies station on the radio. This car had seen us through countless joyful journeys when our family was whole. Almost three years had passed since that fateful Christmas trip in Texas when our parents were tragically killed in a horrific multi-car pileup. The memory of their loss was a constant ache, a wound that never fully healed.
My dad was from Amarillo, Texas, so my parents often took trips down there, visiting the places that held so many memories for him. During one of these trips, just before Christmas, a sudden blizzard struck while they were on the freeway. The snow fell in blinding sheets, making the world outside a disorienting white blur. As they tried to slowly pull to the side, their vision obscured by the relentless storm, they never saw the car barreling toward them at least forty miles an hour. The impact was devastating, an abrupt and brutal end to their journey and, in many ways, to our lives as we had known them.
My parents were always sticklers for safety, insisting on seatbelts every time we got in the car. So, of course, they had theirs on during that fateful trip. The initial impact wasn't what killed them, the coroner explained to me. Not even the first hit from behind, which was going at least fifty miles an hour, was fatal. I had to practically shake the information out of him—they were so resistant to tell me anything at first. By the time the third car hit, with an unknown speed, their survival was already in jeopardy. The coroner said that by the fifth car, they were likely dead. But it didn't end there. Another twenty-three vehicles slammed into the back of the pile, each collision further crushing their bodies, reducing them to a horrific, unrecognizable state. Each jarring impact pushed my parents deeper into a gruesome amalgamation of twisted metal and shattered lives.
I don't know why I felt compelled to demand those details at the time, but I deeply regret it now. I wish I had never asked. Almost every night, unless I drink myself into oblivion, I am haunted by nightmares of what they endured. I dream of driving up to save them, only to be caught in the same deadly barrage of cars, ending in a twisted metal tomb for all of us.
Lily is never in those dreams. Even in my most horrific imaginings, I can't envision her being hurt. Lily is my little sister, younger by eight years and three months. Whenever I mention our age difference, I see the judgment in people's eyes, but what can I say? Our parents never stopped loving each other. They had Lily late in life; she became our shared joy, our living reminder of the love that had bound our family together.
Lily wasn't my twin in the literal sense, but ever since she was born, it felt like we shared the inexplicable connection that twins often describe. As she grew up, our bond only deepened—we acted, sounded, and even looked remarkably alike. She became my rock, especially after our parents' tragic deaths. We leaned on each other, cried into each other's shoulders, and somehow found the strength to move forward. We eventually moved in together, finding solace in a two-bedroom apartment that became our sanctuary.
Lily seemed to handle our parents' deaths better than I did, or maybe she was just better at distracting herself with technology. Even before their passing, Lily was addicted to any kind of digital screen she could manipulate. Her ability to navigate the digital world was unmatched; she was the most intelligent person I had ever met. Her intelligence was a beacon of light in the darkness that had enveloped us, a testament to her resilience and brilliance.
After my parents' death, I embarked on a quest to find my spirituality by delving into paranormal investigations. I hoped these pursuits would bring me closer to my parents in the afterlife, spiritual realm, or whatever you want to call it. Instead, it created a chasm between me and any sense of spiritual existence. Each investigation seemed to push me further from the answers I sought, leaving me feeling more isolated and disconnected than ever.
I had hoped that by exploring these paranormal claims, I would discover a way to reach out to my parents and feel their presence again. Yet, as the years have passed, this endeavor has only deepened my loneliness and sense of loss. Despite knowing how detrimental it is to my mental health, I can't bring myself to stop. The hope that the subsequent investigation will be the one that proves the existence of an afterlife and that I'll find a way to contact my parents keeps me going. It's a desperate, unrelenting pursuit for a connection that remains heartbreakingly out of reach.
I should have accepted their death and moved on like any sane person would. Instead, I let my grief fester and dragged my sister and a stranger, Mark, through my obsessive quest for answers. My relentless pursuit of the paranormal didn't just alienate me; it consumed us all, leading to their untimely deaths. My name is Rory Fars, and I am here to confess my side of the story about the missing case of Lily Fars and Mark Lawrence.
This is the truth about how my desperate search for a connection with the afterlife led to a nightmare from which none of us could escape.
To start off, no, Lily was not a student of Mark's who fell in love with him and then got jealous of me hitting on him, leading her to kill him and herself. I know that sounds ridiculous, but given some wild theories circulating online, I need to address this one specifically since it seems to be the most popular.
First and foremost, Mark Lawrence was not, nor has he ever been, a professor at a university. Lily and I met Mark at the Local Museum in Redlin, a town nestled deep in the Appalachian Mountains. He was the curator of an exhibit showcasing the history of Raven's Nest, a forgotten mining town that neither Lily nor I had ever heard of. This is where our story begins, in a place steeped in history and mystery, far removed from the convoluted theories that now cloud the truth.
We were constantly searching for new ideas for our podcast about paranormal claims. Each of our twenty-five episodes so far had concluded with a rational explanation, so when Mark told us about the curse of Harper, I was immediately intrigued.
Mark was an older man, likely in his mid-sixties, with a full head of silver hair and a beard that stubbornly clung to its youthful color, only lightly dusted with grey. He had a presence that commanded attention, and his stories about the curse were delivered with an intensity that drew me in.
On the other hand, Lily was always more interested in the technical aspects of the paranormal. She had her own theories and was determined to debunk every claim we investigated. She wasn't easily swayed by Mark's tales about the curse of Harper, but she was willing to listen and give him a chance to prove himself. Her skeptical mind constantly checked my enthusiasm, and together, we hoped to uncover the truth behind yet another paranormal mystery.
"Hello ladies, care to hear about the mysterious town of Raven's Nest?" Mark asked with theatrical enthusiasm.
Lily and I exchanged a knowing glance, trying to stifle our amusement. Despite our attempts to remain composed, a smirk played at the corners of our lips.
"We're all ears," I replied, my tone laced with a hint of sarcasm.
He sighed, almost as if he was disappointed that we said yes. Taking a deep breath, he seemed to steel himself for the task ahead. "Well, you see," he began, his voice tinged with uncertainty, "in the early twentieth century, a man named Harper Franstein exploited many men and children in the coal mines. By the mid-1920s, he had established his own settlement in a secluded valley, which he dubbed 'The Raven's Nest.' It was never officially recognized as a town, but that's the only name we have to go off of."
I could see the beads of sweat forming on Mark's brow as he struggled to recall every detail. Despite his initial enthusiasm, he now appeared flustered, his confidence waning. Eventually, he resorted to consulting his damp and crumpled notes, a sign of his growing unease.
"Um, anyway, yeah, um," he stuttered, audibly gulping as his nerves got the better of him. Lily couldn't contain her laughter, emitting a snicker that earned us a glare from Mark.
"Hey, just relax," I interjected, trying to diffuse the tension. "We're not here to judge or intimidate you." With a gentle touch on his forearm and a chuckle, I attempted to reassure him, hoping to ease his obvious discomfort.
He paused, sharing a chuckle with me, while Lily struggled to suppress her laughter and eventually excused herself, leaving just Mark and me. Evidently, he felt more at ease with fewer listeners, so he pressed on with his narrative.
"Anyway," he resumed, "Harper held complete control over the town and the mine, and he made sure everyone was acutely aware of that fact. When the disappearances began, he tried to sweep them under the rug, attributing them to anything but his own negligence in mining practices."
"What do you mean by 'negligence in mining practices'?" I interjected, eager to delve deeper into his intriguing tale.
He looked up, clearly pleased by my question. "Yes, exactly," he affirmed. "Harper adhered to a mining technique outlined by Dwight Brunst in the mid to late nineteenth century. This method mandated only one entry and exit point into the mine."
"Wait, so they were forbidden from creating additional exits?" I pressed for clarification.
"Not explicitly," he explained. "The practice advocated for just one entry and exit as it was believed to minimize the risk of cave-ins, at least in theory. However, there were instances where miners, feeling uneasy about this restriction, took matters into their own hands and carved out what they called 'Emergency Exits' for themselves. After about half of the town started going missing, Harper couldn't take criticism about how he responded, but most people say he was losing money quickly and didn't want to live in a world where he was poor. He walked into the mine, never to be seen again, much like the cave's past victims. Visitors report seeing and hearing Harper, trying to get them to leave."
As I stood there, listening to Mark's enthralling narrative, I found myself captivated by the mysterious allure of Raven's Nest. Unable to contain my curiosity, I decided to pose a question.
"So, what does the town look like now?" I inquired, eager to learn more about the present state of this enigmatic place.
Mark's demeanor shifted slightly as he rifled through his notes, a subtle indication that he didn't have a straightforward answer to my query.
"You've never been there?" I asked, my tone softening with genuine curiosity.
He flinched as though my question had struck a nerve. "Shhhhhh... shut up," he demanded, his voice tinged with unease.
Suppressing a chuckle, I leaned in closer and whispered, "Okay, hear me out. My sister Lily and I are investigating paranormal phenomena. Your story about Raven's Nest sounds like the perfect addition to our podcast. What do you say we compensate you for your guidance? Let's say, three hundred bucks?"
He straightened up, contemplating my proposition for a few moments. Without uttering a word, he extended his hand, and I met it halfway with my own, sealing our agreement with a firm handshake.
Our journey to Raven's Nest was no easy feat. Situated a good twenty miles from town and nestled deep within a dense valley. After all of the tight turns, narrow dirt roads, and steep inclines, it took us a grueling two and a half hours to go twenty-something miles, but we finally reached the outskirts of the infamous settlement. As we stood at the edge of the "Nest," anticipation mingled with trepidation, setting the stage for the eerie exploration that lay ahead.
I glanced at my phone; the time read 11:56 pm, signaling the late hour. Sensing the exhaustion weighing heavily, I suggested we catch a few hours of rest in Lily's jeep. Mark, though visibly unsettled, remained silent from the back seat, his arms folded tightly across his chest as he slumped against the window like a sulking child.
Drifting asleep in the passenger seat, I soon found myself ensnared in a nightmare. In my dream, Mark was being dragged away into the darkness, his desperate attempts to claw his way back to safety only resulting in broken fingertips. Despite his struggles, he was powerless against the unseen force pulling him inexorably into the abyss. Suddenly, I was alone, engulfed in utter darkness, my heart pounding with fear as I ran blindly from an unseen terror that seemed to pursue me relentlessly, its malevolent presence palpable but unseen.
I jolted awake, gasping for breath, my heart racing as the remnants of dread lingered in the pit of my stomach. It was morning, and I was struggling to adjust my vision. Lily's frantic but comforting voice broke through the haze of my terror, grounding me in reality. With her comforting embrace, I gradually calmed my racing thoughts, drawing deep, steadying breaths.
As we sat there, enveloped in each other's embrace, Mark approached the driver's side window with an unexpected question, "Alright, what's for breakfast?" His nonchalant tone and casual demeanor were a stark contrast to the harrowing nightmare that had just consumed my thoughts, momentarily dispelling the lingering specter of fear that had haunted my dreams.
Lily and I both look up at him and back at each other as we burst out into laughter.
Amidst our shared laughter, Lily and I exchanged amused glances before turning our attention back to Mark.
"Ha...ha, yeah. No, but seriously, what's for breakfast? Eggs, bacon, toast, at least?" Mark pressed, hoping for a more substantial response.
His earnest inquiry fueled our laughter further, our giggles echoing through the quiet night air. Eventually, we regained our composure and stepped out of the jeep, stretching our limbs after the cramped confines of the vehicle.
Mark awkwardly moves to the side, still waiting for an honest answer. Lily tossed him a granola bar, eliciting a bemused chuckle from him. With a shared understanding, we set off on foot, embarking on the hike into the town.
The path ahead was clear: a single dirt road that wound its way from the abandoned coal mine into the heart of the small settlement. The road, now overgrown and muddy from years of disuse, bore the marks of neglect and isolation. Wary of the treacherous conditions, Lily opted to forgo the risk of getting stuck, steering clear of the decrepit road that likely hadn't seen a traveler in at least half a century.
We parked Lily's jeep at the entrance to both the mine and the town of Raven's Nest, opting to proceed on foot from there. Standing at the mountain's peak, gazing down at the desolate town below, I couldn't help but ponder the history beneath the dilapidated structures. I imagined how this valley must have once been a pristine landscape cherished by the indigenous people who roamed its lush terrain.
"Jesus, this place is more like a shit nest," Mark muttered in disgust, his disdain evident in his tone.
Lily shot me a knowing glance, silently communicating her skepticism toward Mark's assessment of the town.
Deciding to put Mark's knowledge to the test, I casually inquired, "So, what year was this area founded?"
Mark's reaction was almost defensive as if my question had caught him off guard. He hesitated momentarily before fumbling for his note cards in his pocket, a telltale sign that he wasn't as knowledgeable as he let on.
Before he could respond, I interjected with another question, "Mark, how long have you worked at the museum?"
As Mark froze, his gaze locking onto mine like a deer caught in headlights, I watched him closely, waiting for any sign of hesitation or discomfort. My narrowed eyes bore into his, silently urging him to be honest.
Finally, breaking the tense silence, Mark confessed, "Look, this is only my first week. I... I haven't had the greatest time lately, and I really need the extra money. I'm sorry I lied, but I'll help however I can."
I met his gaze unwaveringly, sensing the sincerity in his words. Clearly, he was a man in need of redemption, grappling with his own personal struggles.
"Alright, alright, don't cry too much," I teased lightly, trying to ease the tension. Gesturing towards Lily, who was busy preparing her wireless motion cameras in her backpack, I continued, "Lily and I already figured that was the case. Honestly, we're surprised you agreed to come along."
Mark remained frozen, but the tension seemed to melt away from his expression, replaced by a tentative smile. It was a moment of shared understanding, a silent acknowledgment that he was still welcomed into our expedition despite his initial deception.
"Alright, I have the cams and portable batteries to make sure the cameras and anything we have with power can last," Lily said, her voice brimming with determination.
We began our descent into the town, our hiking boots struggling against the thick, clinging mud produced by the constant light rain and years of disuse. Each step was a battle, the mud threatening to swallow our boots with every move.
After an eternity of trudging through the muck, we finally reached the town's only paved road—the main road. It had taken us only about fifteen minutes to hike down, but navigating the muddy slope had sapped our energy. We paused for a break, taking a few minutes to clean off our boots and catch our breath.
As we rested, I noticed Lily rummaging through her bag with a focused intensity. Curious, I asked, "What are you looking for?"
"I brought five motion-detecting cameras that I want to set up strategically throughout the town," she replied, pulling out one of the cameras. She walked over to the nearest building, a structure that served as a post office, police station, and fire station. She positioned the camera outside the building so it was pointed at the only road leading in and out of the town.
"We need to cover all potential points of interest," she explained, securing the camera in place. "This one will monitor any activity on the main road. We should place the other cameras around key locations like the mine entrance, the town square, and some more intact buildings."
I nodded, appreciating her thoroughness. "Good idea. We need to make sure we capture anything unusual."
Mark, having finally caught his breath, joined us. "Alright, let's get these cameras set up and see what we can find," he said, a hint of excitement in his voice.
"Look," Lily said, turning her tablet screen toward us. She waved her hand in front of the camera she had just placed. The tablet displayed five squares on the interface, each meant to show a feed from one of the cameras. Since Lily had only set up one camera so far, only the bottom right square showed any footage pointed at the road leading out of town. She stopped waving her hand, and the feed went to a blue screen.
"What happened? Did we lose connection?" Mark asked frantically, his eyes wide with concern.
Lily cackled, struggling to contain her amusement. Composing herself, she waved her hand in front of the camera again, and the bottom right square showed her hand waving once more. "It's motion-activated. It's the best way to save on battery life," she explained.
Mark seemed to relax, though he was still catching his breath after the brief panic.
I glanced at my watch, noting the time. "It's 8:30. We're behind schedule. If you want to place the rest of your cameras, we better move now," I said, walking down the street.
Lily immediately got up and followed me, with Mark struggling to keep pace behind us. We reached the market building, and Lily positioned her second camera on the side of the road, pointing up at the market.
It's not much longer before we make it to the Town Hall. I suggest Lily place a camera nearby. She nods and heads into a building across from the Town Hall labeled, "Slaughterhouse: LOCAL ANIMALS ONLY."
As Lily explores the building to find an adequate spot for the camera, I wait for Mark to catch up. While I wait, I can't help but imagine this town in its prime, picturing the streets filled with families who loved each other.
My thoughts are abruptly cut off by a sound echoing in the distance—a roar unlike any I've ever heard. It was a mix of a human screaming in pain, the roar of a lion, and, near the end, the howl of a wolf. The chilling sound sent shivers down my spine.
I jump to my feet and immediately call out, "Lily, you okay?"
There's no response from Lily, but I'm interrupted by Mark finally catching up, panting heavily.
"Holy... shit... did you... hear that?" Mark said frantically between breaths.
"Yeah, we have to find Lily," I say, bolting into the slaughterhouse. I glance back to see Mark bracing himself on the steps of the Town Hall, struggling to keep up.
As I enter the building, the stench of rotting flesh hits me like a wave, causing me to gag. The smell is too fresh to be decades old.
"Lily? Lily, where are you?" I yell, using my shirt to shield my nose from the overwhelming odor.
"Rory, I'm in here!" I hear Lily yell from a room two doors down. I pass the first door, peeking in to ensure I hadn't misheard, but I wish I hadn't looked.
Inside the first room, I catch a glimpse of what appears to be a pile of animal carcasses, their decayed bodies arranged in a grotesque display. The sight is horrifying, the flesh still disturbingly fresh. The bile rises in my throat, but I force myself to focus on finding Lily.
I rush to the room where her voice came from, pushing the door open. Lily is there, setting up the camera, seemingly oblivious to the horror in the adjacent room. Relief floods through me as I see she's safe.
"Lily, did you hear that roar?" I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Yeah, I heard it," she replies, her eyes wide with concern. "I was just finishing up here. Let's get back to Mark and figure out what that was." She had placed the camera in a window, pointing directly at the Town Hall.
We hurry back outside, where Mark still catches his breath as we meet between the buildings. "We need to stay together from now on," I say firmly, looking at both of them. "Whatever that noise was, it's not something we want to face alone."
"Let's check out the Town Hall!" Mark says excitedly as he slowly clambers through a broken window.
"Did he not just hear what I said?" I mutter under my breath, shaking my head in disbelief.
Lily gives me a shrug, her eyes reflecting a mix of amusement and exasperation. "Guess we're heading into the Town Hall then," she says, adjusting her backpack and walking towards the broken window.
I sigh and follow suit, hoisting myself up and carefully maneuvering through the jagged glass. Inside, the air is musty, filled with the scent of old paper and decaying wood. Dust motes float lazily in the beams of sunlight streaming through the cracked windows.
The main hall is vast and eerily silent, with rows of empty chairs facing a stage draped in tattered curtains. The walls are lined with faded portraits and yellowed maps of the town, remnants of a time when this place was alive and bustling.
Mark is already at the front, examining a large, decrepit desk. "Look at this," he says, his voice echoing in the empty space. "It's like stepping back in time."
I walk over, glancing at the old papers scattered across the desk. Most are mundane—meeting minutes, maintenance logs—but one catches my eye. It's a letter dated June 1925, addressed to Harper Franstein.
"Harper, the disappearances are becoming more frequent. The townsfolk are getting restless, and I fear they may take matters into their own hands if we don't act soon. We need to find out what's causing this before it's too late."
I read the letter aloud, and the room fell silent. "Sounds like things were getting pretty tense," Lily remarks, her voice subdued.
As I'm distracted by the time capsule in front of us, Mark sneaks off.
I'm not sure how long it was before she noticed, but I saw Lily looking around before saying, "Where the hell did Mark go?" breaking me out of my trance.
I look around, turning my head in all directions, and shrug at Lily. I hear shuffling in the second room down the hall, so I slowly walk toward it.
"Mark?" I call out.
Just then, a loud crash reverberates through the building, making it sound like the whole place was about to come down.
We run in and see Mark struggling to keep himself from falling into a giant hole that must've broken under his weight. Trying not to laugh, I glance at Lily. We help him up as he dramatically falls onto his back, wheezing as he catches his breath.
Lily and I can't contain our laughter anymore as we bust out laughing hard. Startled by our sudden outburst, Mark jumps in fear. He looks around, confused for a few seconds, before realizing that we are laughing at him.
"Jesus, thanks, I guess," he says, clearly thankful but annoyed by our reaction.
After we contained ourselves, we headed back outside, exiting through the window Mark entered through. He struggles to climb out, but after Lily gives him a hand, he is safely out of the Town Hall.
"Alright, Ror, where should we put the next camera?" Lily asks me.
I stop to think momentarily, trying to picture the town's layout. "I think the only place left is the neighborhood," I respond confidently. I always talk like that with Lily. Over the years, I've realized she is the only person I can have that much confidence around. With anyone else, I'm worried about saying something stupid or wrong or how they'll view me, but with my sister, everything is easy.
As I look at the replica map of the town in its heyday from the museum, I determine that the neighborhood is to the East. "Okay, looks like we head East past the Library. Let's go." I say, walking away.
It only takes about eight minutes to get to the long strip of road that housed the town's workers. According to the map, there were fifteen houses along this strip of road.
The houses stand eerily silent, their wooden frames weathered and decayed by time. We walk down the road, our footsteps crunching on the gravel and echoing in the stillness. The air feels heavier here like the past is watching us, waiting to reveal its secrets.
"Let's put the last cameras on that house at the end of the road," I suggest, pointing to a house that looks slightly less dilapidated than the others, "another one at the last house on the other side, and the last we can save for a spot you choose."
Lily nods and heads toward the first house, pulling another camera from her backpack. She sets it up on the porch, positioning it to capture the entire street, and does the same in the opposite house. As I stand with Mark breathing hard, still unable to catch his breath since we first got here, I can't shake the feeling that we're being watched. I glance around nervously but see nothing out of the ordinary.
"All set," Lily says, breaking my reverie, "Still no ideas for the last cam?" Lily asks me.
"Like I said, wherever you think it would be best. I feel like we have enough good spots and angles, so go wild with that one," I told her.
She smirked and kept walking next to me. Mark was still struggling behind, but after the town hall mishap, he was trying his best to keep up. I looked at my watch, and it read '12:30 pm'.
"Holy shit, it's already 12:30," I said in amazement, but no one else seemed fazed. It felt like we'd only been here thirty minutes, not almost four hours.
We walked back down the street. Lily and I had been discussing on the walk that she should put the last camera at the town's only stoplight in front of the Library.
As we made our way to it, I could have sworn I was seeing something moving fast past my vision in the corner of my eye. Every time I turned to look, it was gone. I chalked it up to being my imagination until Lily and Mark both experienced the same thing.
"What the fuck was that?" Mark asked as he ducked, bracing for something terrible to happen. Lily and I looked back at him and then at each other as we shrugged. It was after that that I started seeing things, too.
I confided in Lily about the unsettling visions and sounds, and she admitted she had experienced the same phenomena but had kept quiet, fearing Mark would dismiss her as paranoid.
"Well, it's probably just a cat or something," I said, attempting to downplay the situation, but neither seemed convinced.
We continued our trek, and I noticed that the more we walked, the more frequently I caught fleeting glimpses of movement in my peripheral vision. It was beginning to grate on my nerves.
Finally, we reached the light in front of the Library. As Lily mounted the camera, I felt a sense of satisfaction. We were making good progress, and it seemed like a suitable moment to start exploring the town more freely. We decided to split up and cover different sections of the town.
"Wait, we have to go alone? Why can't we stay together like you said?" Mark asked frantically, but Lily and I ignored him as we headed in separate directions. He continued to protest, but we paid him no mind. Eventually, I was either far enough away to not hear him anymore, or he had given up. Either way, I was happy to enjoy the eerie silence of the town.
As I wandered, the stillness of Raven's Nest enveloped me. With its decrepit buildings and overgrown streets, the town exuded an unsettling charm. It was as if I had stepped into a forgotten world, a place frozen in time with secrets waiting to be unearthed. The ambiance reminded me of an amusement park's haunted town section—artificially eerie yet irresistibly intriguing. Despite the creepiness, the mysterious vibe of the town kept me engaged and eager to explore its hidden corners.
I glanced at my watch again, only to find the time glaring back at me: 3:19 pm. It couldn't be right. There was no way it had been that long since I last checked. Panic seized me, and I called out for Lily, my voice tinged with urgency. She appeared beside me in a matter of minutes, her expression mirroring my concern.
"What's up, Ror? You okay?" she asked, her voice laced with worry.
"How long would you say it's been since you put the last camera down?" I inquired, my heart pounding in my chest.
Lily's brow furrowed as she struggled to come up with an answer. "Uh, I don't know, thirty minutes?" she hazarded a guess.
I held up my watch, displaying the time: 3:20 pm. Lily fell silent, her eyes widening in disbelief. She was never great with time, but missing almost three hours of our memory was unprecedented.
"There's no way. Your watch must be—" Lily began, her voice trailing off as she checked her own watch, only to freeze in shock when she found it displayed the same time as mine.
"Lil, something is going on," I stated, my voice tight and apprehensive. I glanced up at the sky, my stomach churning as I noticed the clouds darkening and rolling in from all sides of the valley.
The sky closed rapidly, ominous clouds obscuring the sun as thunder rumbled ominously against the mountains.
"Mark? Mark, where are—" I began to call out, but before I could finish, Mark emerged from behind a wall, appearing as if he'd been too frightened to venture far on his own.
"We have to get inside!" Mark exclaimed urgently, his voice tinged with fear.
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A heavy sense of dread settled over me like a suffocating blanket as I sat in the worn leather seat of Lily's old jeep. The car, a relic of our happier days, seemed to groan under our shared sorrow. Beside me, Lily, my best friend, and confidante, absentmindedly twirled a strand of her long, dark hair, which swayed gently in rhythm with the haunting melodies from the oldies station on the radio. This car had seen us through countless joyful journeys when our family was whole. Almost three years had passed since that fateful Christmas trip in Texas when our parents were tragically killed in a horrific multi-car pileup. The memory of their loss was a constant ache, a wound that never fully healed.
My dad was from Amarillo, Texas, so my parents often took trips down there, visiting the places that held so many memories for him. During one of these trips, just before Christmas, a sudden blizzard struck while they were on the freeway. The snow fell in blinding sheets, making the world outside a disorienting white blur. As they tried to slowly pull to the side, their vision obscured by the relentless storm, they never saw the car barreling toward them at least forty miles an hour. The impact was devastating, an abrupt and brutal end to their journey and, in many ways, to our lives as we had known them.
My parents were always sticklers for safety, insisting on seatbelts every time we got in the car. So, of course, they had theirs on during that fateful trip. The initial impact wasn't what killed them, the coroner explained to me. Not even the first hit from behind, which was going at least fifty miles an hour, was fatal. I had to practically shake the information out of him—they were so resistant to tell me anything at first. By the time the third car hit, with an unknown speed, their survival was already in jeopardy. The coroner said that by the fifth car, they were likely dead. But it didn't end there. Another twenty-three vehicles slammed into the back of the pile, each collision further crushing their bodies, reducing them to a horrific, unrecognizable state. Each jarring impact pushed my parents deeper into a gruesome amalgamation of twisted metal and shattered lives.
I don't know why I felt compelled to demand those details at the time, but I deeply regret it now. I wish I had never asked. Almost every night, unless I drink myself into oblivion, I am haunted by nightmares of what they endured. I dream of driving up to save them, only to be caught in the same deadly barrage of cars, ending in a twisted metal tomb for all of us.
Lily is never in those dreams. Even in my most horrific imaginings, I can't envision her being hurt. Lily is my little sister, younger by eight years and three months. Whenever I mention our age difference, I see the judgment in people's eyes, but what can I say? Our parents never stopped loving each other. They had Lily late in life; she became our shared joy, our living reminder of the love that had bound our family together.
Lily wasn't my twin in the literal sense, but ever since she was born, it felt like we shared the inexplicable connection that twins often describe. As she grew up, our bond only deepened—we acted, sounded, and even looked remarkably alike. She became my rock, especially after our parents' tragic deaths. We leaned on each other, cried into each other's shoulders, and somehow found the strength to move forward. We eventually moved in together, finding solace in a two-bedroom apartment that became our sanctuary.
Lily seemed to handle our parents' deaths better than I did, or maybe she was just better at distracting herself with technology. Even before their passing, Lily was addicted to any kind of digital screen she could manipulate. Her ability to navigate the digital world was unmatched; she was the most intelligent person I had ever met. Her intelligence was a beacon of light in the darkness that had enveloped us, a testament to her resilience and brilliance.
After my parents' death, I embarked on a quest to find my spirituality by delving into paranormal investigations. I hoped these pursuits would bring me closer to my parents in the afterlife, spiritual realm, or whatever you want to call it. Instead, it created a chasm between me and any sense of spiritual existence. Each investigation seemed to push me further from the answers I sought, leaving me feeling more isolated and disconnected than ever.
I had hoped that by exploring these paranormal claims, I would discover a way to reach out to my parents and feel their presence again. Yet, as the years have passed, this endeavor has only deepened my loneliness and sense of loss. Despite knowing how detrimental it is to my mental health, I can't bring myself to stop. The hope that the subsequent investigation will be the one that proves the existence of an afterlife and that I'll find a way to contact my parents keeps me going. It's a desperate, unrelenting pursuit for a connection that remains heartbreakingly out of reach.
I should have accepted their death and moved on like any sane person would. Instead, I let my grief fester and dragged my sister and a stranger, Mark, through my obsessive quest for answers. My relentless pursuit of the paranormal didn't just alienate me; it consumed us all, leading to their untimely deaths. My name is Rory Fars, and I am here to confess my side of the story about the missing case of Lily Fars and Mark Lawrence.
This is the truth about how my desperate search for a connection with the afterlife led to a nightmare from which none of us could escape.
To start off, no, Lily was not a student of Mark's who fell in love with him and then got jealous of me hitting on him, leading her to kill him and herself. I know that sounds ridiculous, but given some wild theories circulating online, I need to address this one specifically since it seems to be the most popular.
First and foremost, Mark Lawrence was not, nor has he ever been, a professor at a university. Lily and I met Mark at the Local Museum in Redlin, a town nestled deep in the Appalachian Mountains. He was the curator of an exhibit showcasing the history of Raven's Nest, a forgotten mining town that neither Lily nor I had ever heard of. This is where our story begins, in a place steeped in history and mystery, far removed from the convoluted theories that now cloud the truth.
We were constantly searching for new ideas for our podcast about paranormal claims. Each of our twenty-five episodes so far had concluded with a rational explanation, so when Mark told us about the curse of Harper, I was immediately intrigued.
Mark was an older man, likely in his mid-sixties, with a full head of silver hair and a beard that stubbornly clung to its youthful color, only lightly dusted with grey. He had a presence that commanded attention, and his stories about the curse were delivered with an intensity that drew me in.
On the other hand, Lily was always more interested in the technical aspects of the paranormal. She had her own theories and was determined to debunk every claim we investigated. She wasn't easily swayed by Mark's tales about the curse of Harper, but she was willing to listen and give him a chance to prove himself. Her skeptical mind constantly checked my enthusiasm, and together, we hoped to uncover the truth behind yet another paranormal mystery.
"Hello ladies, care to hear about the mysterious town of Raven's Nest?" Mark asked with theatrical enthusiasm.
Lily and I exchanged a knowing glance, trying to stifle our amusement. Despite our attempts to remain composed, a smirk played at the corners of our lips.
"We're all ears," I replied, my tone laced with a hint of sarcasm.
He sighed, almost as if he was disappointed that we said yes. Taking a deep breath, he seemed to steel himself for the task ahead. "Well, you see," he began, his voice tinged with uncertainty, "in the early twentieth century, a man named Harper Franstein exploited many men and children in the coal mines. By the mid-1920s, he had established his own settlement in a secluded valley, which he dubbed 'The Raven's Nest.' It was never officially recognized as a town, but that's the only name we have to go off of."
I could see the beads of sweat forming on Mark's brow as he struggled to recall every detail. Despite his initial enthusiasm, he now appeared flustered, his confidence waning. Eventually, he resorted to consulting his damp and crumpled notes, a sign of his growing unease.
"Um, anyway, yeah, um," he stuttered, audibly gulping as his nerves got the better of him. Lily couldn't contain her laughter, emitting a snicker that earned us a glare from Mark.
"Hey, just relax," I interjected, trying to diffuse the tension. "We're not here to judge or intimidate you." With a gentle touch on his forearm and a chuckle, I attempted to reassure him, hoping to ease his obvious discomfort.
He paused, sharing a chuckle with me, while Lily struggled to suppress her laughter and eventually excused herself, leaving just Mark and me. Evidently, he felt more at ease with fewer listeners, so he pressed on with his narrative.
"Anyway," he resumed, "Harper held complete control over the town and the mine, and he made sure everyone was acutely aware of that fact. When the disappearances began, he tried to sweep them under the rug, attributing them to anything but his own negligence in mining practices."
"What do you mean by 'negligence in mining practices'?" I interjected, eager to delve deeper into his intriguing tale.
He looked up, clearly pleased by my question. "Yes, exactly," he affirmed. "Harper adhered to a mining technique outlined by Dwight Brunst in the mid to late nineteenth century. This method mandated only one entry and exit point into the mine."
"Wait, so they were forbidden from creating additional exits?" I pressed for clarification.
"Not explicitly," he explained. "The practice advocated for just one entry and exit as it was believed to minimize the risk of cave-ins, at least in theory. However, there were instances where miners, feeling uneasy about this restriction, took matters into their own hands and carved out what they called 'Emergency Exits' for themselves. After about half of the town started going missing, Harper couldn't take criticism about how he responded, but most people say he was losing money quickly and didn't want to live in a world where he was poor. He walked into the mine, never to be seen again, much like the cave's past victims. Visitors report seeing and hearing Harper, trying to get them to leave."
As I stood there, listening to Mark's enthralling narrative, I found myself captivated by the mysterious allure of Raven's Nest. Unable to contain my curiosity, I decided to pose a question.
"So, what does the town look like now?" I inquired, eager to learn more about the present state of this enigmatic place.
Mark's demeanor shifted slightly as he rifled through his notes, a subtle indication that he didn't have a straightforward answer to my query.
"You've never been there?" I asked, my tone softening with genuine curiosity.
He flinched as though my question had struck a nerve. "Shhhhhh... shut up," he demanded, his voice tinged with unease.
Suppressing a chuckle, I leaned in closer and whispered, "Okay, hear me out. My sister Lily and I are investigating paranormal phenomena. Your story about Raven's Nest sounds like the perfect addition to our podcast. What do you say we compensate you for your guidance? Let's say, three hundred bucks?"
He straightened up, contemplating my proposition for a few moments. Without uttering a word, he extended his hand, and I met it halfway with my own, sealing our agreement with a firm handshake.
Our journey to Raven's Nest was no easy feat. Situated a good twenty miles from town and nestled deep within a dense valley. After all of the tight turns, narrow dirt roads, and steep inclines, it took us a grueling two and a half hours to go twenty-something miles, but we finally reached the outskirts of the infamous settlement. As we stood at the edge of the "Nest," anticipation mingled with trepidation, setting the stage for the eerie exploration that lay ahead.
I glanced at my phone; the time read 11:56 pm, signaling the late hour. Sensing the exhaustion weighing heavily, I suggested we catch a few hours of rest in Lily's jeep. Mark, though visibly unsettled, remained silent from the back seat, his arms folded tightly across his chest as he slumped against the window like a sulking child.
Drifting asleep in the passenger seat, I soon found myself ensnared in a nightmare. In my dream, Mark was being dragged away into the darkness, his desperate attempts to claw his way back to safety only resulting in broken fingertips. Despite his struggles, he was powerless against the unseen force pulling him inexorably into the abyss. Suddenly, I was alone, engulfed in utter darkness, my heart pounding with fear as I ran blindly from an unseen terror that seemed to pursue me relentlessly, its malevolent presence palpable but unseen.
I jolted awake, gasping for breath, my heart racing as the remnants of dread lingered in the pit of my stomach. It was morning, and I was struggling to adjust my vision. Lily's frantic but comforting voice broke through the haze of my terror, grounding me in reality. With her comforting embrace, I gradually calmed my racing thoughts, drawing deep, steadying breaths.
As we sat there, enveloped in each other's embrace, Mark approached the driver's side window with an unexpected question, "Alright, what's for breakfast?" His nonchalant tone and casual demeanor were a stark contrast to the harrowing nightmare that had just consumed my thoughts, momentarily dispelling the lingering specter of fear that had haunted my dreams.
Lily and I both look up at him and back at each other as we burst out into laughter.
Amidst our shared laughter, Lily and I exchanged amused glances before turning our attention back to Mark.
"Ha...ha, yeah. No, but seriously, what's for breakfast? Eggs, bacon, toast, at least?" Mark pressed, hoping for a more substantial response.
His earnest inquiry fueled our laughter further, our giggles echoing through the quiet night air. Eventually, we regained our composure and stepped out of the jeep, stretching our limbs after the cramped confines of the vehicle.
Mark awkwardly moves to the side, still waiting for an honest answer. Lily tossed him a granola bar, eliciting a bemused chuckle from him. With a shared understanding, we set off on foot, embarking on the hike into the town.
The path ahead was clear: a single dirt road that wound its way from the abandoned coal mine into the heart of the small settlement. The road, now overgrown and muddy from years of disuse, bore the marks of neglect and isolation. Wary of the treacherous conditions, Lily opted to forgo the risk of getting stuck, steering clear of the decrepit road that likely hadn't seen a traveler in at least half a century.
We parked Lily's jeep at the entrance to both the mine and the town of Raven's Nest, opting to proceed on foot from there. Standing at the mountain's peak, gazing down at the desolate town below, I couldn't help but ponder the history beneath the dilapidated structures. I imagined how this valley must have once been a pristine landscape cherished by the indigenous people who roamed its lush terrain.
"Jesus, this place is more like a shit nest," Mark muttered in disgust, his disdain evident in his tone.
Lily shot me a knowing glance, silently communicating her skepticism toward Mark's assessment of the town.
Deciding to put Mark's knowledge to the test, I casually inquired, "So, what year was this area founded?"
Mark's reaction was almost defensive as if my question had caught him off guard. He hesitated momentarily before fumbling for his note cards in his pocket, a telltale sign that he wasn't as knowledgeable as he let on.
Before he could respond, I interjected with another question, "Mark, how long have you worked at the museum?"
As Mark froze, his gaze locking onto mine like a deer caught in headlights, I watched him closely, waiting for any sign of hesitation or discomfort. My narrowed eyes bore into his, silently urging him to be honest.
Finally, breaking the tense silence, Mark confessed, "Look, this is only my first week. I... I haven't had the greatest time lately, and I really need the extra money. I'm sorry I lied, but I'll help however I can."
I met his gaze unwaveringly, sensing the sincerity in his words. Clearly, he was a man in need of redemption, grappling with his own personal struggles.
"Alright, alright, don't cry too much," I teased lightly, trying to ease the tension. Gesturing towards Lily, who was busy preparing her wireless motion cameras in her backpack, I continued, "Lily and I already figured that was the case. Honestly, we're surprised you agreed to come along."
Mark remained frozen, but the tension seemed to melt away from his expression, replaced by a tentative smile. It was a moment of shared understanding, a silent acknowledgment that he was still welcomed into our expedition despite his initial deception.
"Alright, I have the cams and portable batteries to make sure the cameras and anything we have with power can last," Lily said, her voice brimming with determination.
We began our descent into the town, our hiking boots struggling against the thick, clinging mud produced by the constant light rain and years of disuse. Each step was a battle, the mud threatening to swallow our boots with every move.
After an eternity of trudging through the muck, we finally reached the town's only paved road—the main road. It had taken us only about fifteen minutes to hike down, but navigating the muddy slope had sapped our energy. We paused for a break, taking a few minutes to clean off our boots and catch our breath.
As we rested, I noticed Lily rummaging through her bag with a focused intensity. Curious, I asked, "What are you looking for?"
"I brought five motion-detecting cameras that I want to set up strategically throughout the town," she replied, pulling out one of the cameras. She walked over to the nearest building, a structure that served as a post office, police station, and fire station. She positioned the camera outside the building so it was pointed at the only road leading in and out of the town.
"We need to cover all potential points of interest," she explained, securing the camera in place. "This one will monitor any activity on the main road. We should place the other cameras around key locations like the mine entrance, the town square, and some more intact buildings."
I nodded, appreciating her thoroughness. "Good idea. We need to make sure we capture anything unusual."
Mark, having finally caught his breath, joined us. "Alright, let's get these cameras set up and see what we can find," he said, a hint of excitement in his voice.
"Look," Lily said, turning her tablet screen toward us. She waved her hand in front of the camera she had just placed. The tablet displayed five squares on the interface, each meant to show a feed from one of the cameras. Since Lily had only set up one camera so far, only the bottom right square showed any footage pointed at the road leading out of town. She stopped waving her hand, and the feed went to a blue screen.
"What happened? Did we lose connection?" Mark asked frantically, his eyes wide with concern.
Lily cackled, struggling to contain her amusement. Composing herself, she waved her hand in front of the camera again, and the bottom right square showed her hand waving once more. "It's motion-activated. It's the best way to save on battery life," she explained.
Mark seemed to relax, though he was still catching his breath after the brief panic.
I glanced at my watch, noting the time. "It's 8:30. We're behind schedule. If you want to place the rest of your cameras, we better move now," I said, walking down the street.
Lily immediately got up and followed me, with Mark struggling to keep pace behind us. We reached the market building, and Lily positioned her second camera on the side of the road, pointing up at the market.
It's not much longer before we make it to the Town Hall. I suggest Lily place a camera nearby. She nods and heads into a building across from the Town Hall labeled, "Slaughterhouse: LOCAL ANIMALS ONLY."
As Lily explores the building to find an adequate spot for the camera, I wait for Mark to catch up. While I wait, I can't help but imagine this town in its prime, picturing the streets filled with families who loved each other.
My thoughts are abruptly cut off by a sound echoing in the distance—a roar unlike any I've ever heard. It was a mix of a human screaming in pain, the roar of a lion, and, near the end, the howl of a wolf. The chilling sound sent shivers down my spine.
I jump to my feet and immediately call out, "Lily, you okay?"
There's no response from Lily, but I'm interrupted by Mark finally catching up, panting heavily.
"Holy... shit... did you... hear that?" Mark said frantically between breaths.
"Yeah, we have to find Lily," I say, bolting into the slaughterhouse. I glance back to see Mark bracing himself on the steps of the Town Hall, struggling to keep up.
As I enter the building, the stench of rotting flesh hits me like a wave, causing me to gag. The smell is too fresh to be decades old.
"Lily? Lily, where are you?" I yell, using my shirt to shield my nose from the overwhelming odor.
"Rory, I'm in here!" I hear Lily yell from a room two doors down. I pass the first door, peeking in to ensure I hadn't misheard, but I wish I hadn't looked.
Inside the first room, I catch a glimpse of what appears to be a pile of animal carcasses, their decayed bodies arranged in a grotesque display. The sight is horrifying, the flesh still disturbingly fresh. The bile rises in my throat, but I force myself to focus on finding Lily.
I rush to the room where her voice came from, pushing the door open. Lily is there, setting up the camera, seemingly oblivious to the horror in the adjacent room. Relief floods through me as I see she's safe.
"Lily, did you hear that roar?" I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Yeah, I heard it," she replies, her eyes wide with concern. "I was just finishing up here. Let's get back to Mark and figure out what that was." She had placed the camera in a window, pointing directly at the Town Hall.
We hurry back outside, where Mark still catches his breath as we meet between the buildings. "We need to stay together from now on," I say firmly, looking at both of them. "Whatever that noise was, it's not something we want to face alone."
"Let's check out the Town Hall!" Mark says excitedly as he slowly clambers through a broken window.
"Did he not just hear what I said?" I mutter under my breath, shaking my head in disbelief.
Lily gives me a shrug, her eyes reflecting a mix of amusement and exasperation. "Guess we're heading into the Town Hall then," she says, adjusting her backpack and walking towards the broken window.
I sigh and follow suit, hoisting myself up and carefully maneuvering through the jagged glass. Inside, the air is musty, filled with the scent of old paper and decaying wood. Dust motes float lazily in the beams of sunlight streaming through the cracked windows.
The main hall is vast and eerily silent, with rows of empty chairs facing a stage draped in tattered curtains. The walls are lined with faded portraits and yellowed maps of the town, remnants of a time when this place was alive and bustling.
Mark is already at the front, examining a large, decrepit desk. "Look at this," he says, his voice echoing in the empty space. "It's like stepping back in time."
I walk over, glancing at the old papers scattered across the desk. Most are mundane—meeting minutes, maintenance logs—but one catches my eye. It's a letter dated June 1925, addressed to Harper Franstein.
"Harper, the disappearances are becoming more frequent. The townsfolk are getting restless, and I fear they may take matters into their own hands if we don't act soon. We need to find out what's causing this before it's too late."
I read the letter aloud, and the room fell silent. "Sounds like things were getting pretty tense," Lily remarks, her voice subdued.
As I'm distracted by the time capsule in front of us, Mark sneaks off.
I'm not sure how long it was before she noticed, but I saw Lily looking around before saying, "Where the hell did Mark go?" breaking me out of my trance.
I look around, turning my head in all directions, and shrug at Lily. I hear shuffling in the second room down the hall, so I slowly walk toward it.
"Mark?" I call out.
Just then, a loud crash reverberates through the building, making it sound like the whole place was about to come down.
We run in and see Mark struggling to keep himself from falling into a giant hole that must've broken under his weight. Trying not to laugh, I glance at Lily. We help him up as he dramatically falls onto his back, wheezing as he catches his breath.
Lily and I can't contain our laughter anymore as we bust out laughing hard. Startled by our sudden outburst, Mark jumps in fear. He looks around, confused for a few seconds, before realizing that we are laughing at him.
"Jesus, thanks, I guess," he says, clearly thankful but annoyed by our reaction.
After we contained ourselves, we headed back outside, exiting through the window Mark entered through. He struggles to climb out, but after Lily gives him a hand, he is safely out of the Town Hall.
"Alright, Ror, where should we put the next camera?" Lily asks me.
I stop to think momentarily, trying to picture the town's layout. "I think the only place left is the neighborhood," I respond confidently. I always talk like that with Lily. Over the years, I've realized she is the only person I can have that much confidence around. With anyone else, I'm worried about saying something stupid or wrong or how they'll view me, but with my sister, everything is easy.
As I look at the replica map of the town in its heyday from the museum, I determine that the neighborhood is to the East. "Okay, looks like we head East past the Library. Let's go." I say, walking away.
It only takes about eight minutes to get to the long strip of road that housed the town's workers. According to the map, there were fifteen houses along this strip of road.
The houses stand eerily silent, their wooden frames weathered and decayed by time. We walk down the road, our footsteps crunching on the gravel and echoing in the stillness. The air feels heavier here like the past is watching us, waiting to reveal its secrets.
"Let's put the last cameras on that house at the end of the road," I suggest, pointing to a house that looks slightly less dilapidated than the others, "another one at the last house on the other side, and the last we can save for a spot you choose."
Lily nods and heads toward the first house, pulling another camera from her backpack. She sets it up on the porch, positioning it to capture the entire street, and does the same in the opposite house. As I stand with Mark breathing hard, still unable to catch his breath since we first got here, I can't shake the feeling that we're being watched. I glance around nervously but see nothing out of the ordinary.
"All set," Lily says, breaking my reverie, "Still no ideas for the last cam?" Lily asks me.
"Like I said, wherever you think it would be best. I feel like we have enough good spots and angles, so go wild with that one," I told her.
She smirked and kept walking next to me. Mark was still struggling behind, but after the town hall mishap, he was trying his best to keep up. I looked at my watch, and it read '12:30 pm'.
"Holy shit, it's already 12:30," I said in amazement, but no one else seemed fazed. It felt like we'd only been here thirty minutes, not almost four hours.
We walked back down the street. Lily and I had been discussing on the walk that she should put the last camera at the town's only stoplight in front of the Library.
As we made our way to it, I could have sworn I was seeing something moving fast past my vision in the corner of my eye. Every time I turned to look, it was gone. I chalked it up to being my imagination until Lily and Mark both experienced the same thing.
"What the fuck was that?" Mark asked as he ducked, bracing for something terrible to happen. Lily and I looked back at him and then at each other as we shrugged. It was after that that I started seeing things, too.
I confided in Lily about the unsettling visions and sounds, and she admitted she had experienced the same phenomena but had kept quiet, fearing Mark would dismiss her as paranoid.
"Well, it's probably just a cat or something," I said, attempting to downplay the situation, but neither seemed convinced.
We continued our trek, and I noticed that the more we walked, the more frequently I caught fleeting glimpses of movement in my peripheral vision. It was beginning to grate on my nerves.
Finally, we reached the light in front of the Library. As Lily mounted the camera, I felt a sense of satisfaction. We were making good progress, and it seemed like a suitable moment to start exploring the town more freely. We decided to split up and cover different sections of the town.
"Wait, we have to go alone? Why can't we stay together like you said?" Mark asked frantically, but Lily and I ignored him as we headed in separate directions. He continued to protest, but we paid him no mind. Eventually, I was either far enough away to not hear him anymore, or he had given up. Either way, I was happy to enjoy the eerie silence of the town.
As I wandered, the stillness of Raven's Nest enveloped me. With its decrepit buildings and overgrown streets, the town exuded an unsettling charm. It was as if I had stepped into a forgotten world, a place frozen in time with secrets waiting to be unearthed. The ambiance reminded me of an amusement park's haunted town section—artificially eerie yet irresistibly intriguing. Despite the creepiness, the mysterious vibe of the town kept me engaged and eager to explore its hidden corners.
I glanced at my watch again, only to find the time glaring back at me: 3:19 pm. It couldn't be right. There was no way it had been that long since I last checked. Panic seized me, and I called out for Lily, my voice tinged with urgency. She appeared beside me in a matter of minutes, her expression mirroring my concern.
"What's up, Ror? You okay?" she asked, her voice laced with worry.
"How long would you say it's been since you put the last camera down?" I inquired, my heart pounding in my chest.
Lily's brow furrowed as she struggled to come up with an answer. "Uh, I don't know, thirty minutes?" she hazarded a guess.
I held up my watch, displaying the time: 3:20 pm. Lily fell silent, her eyes widening in disbelief. She was never great with time, but missing almost three hours of our memory was unprecedented.
"There's no way. Your watch must be—" Lily began, her voice trailing off as she checked her own watch, only to freeze in shock when she found it displayed the same time as mine.
"Lil, something is going on," I stated, my voice tight and apprehensive. I glanced up at the sky, my stomach churning as I noticed the clouds darkening and rolling in from all sides of the valley.
The sky closed rapidly, ominous clouds obscuring the sun as thunder rumbled ominously against the mountains.
"Mark? Mark, where are—" I began to call out, but before I could finish, Mark emerged from behind a wall, appearing as if he'd been too frightened to venture far on his own.
"We have to get inside!" Mark exclaimed urgently, his voice tinged with fear.
2024.06.09 09:07 GhoulGriin Best Flipper Knives
 | submitted by GhoulGriin to u/GhoulGriin [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/vlmlm36hwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=80f4a428c86c3058f6ec3246091c91c6d10696ef Are you in search of a versatile and stylish knife that can be both practical and aesthetically pleasing? Look no further, as we've gathered the best Flipper Knives on the market for you. In this roundup, we'll explore the top options, discussing their features, materials, and performance, so you can make an informed decision and add one of these gems to your collection. Get ready to discover the perfect blend of style and functionality in our selection of Flipper Knives. The Top 19 Best Flipper Knives
Reviews🔗Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Slock Master Folding Hunter Lockback Knife with Security Sheath and Extra Blades.https://preview.redd.it/csxhgu1iwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ccb9a9138a491bdf357accdb7e0117a80d394991 I've been using the Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Hunter Lockback Knife for a few months now, and I have to say, it's been a lifesaver. The knife's design is sleek and durable, with a sturdy Griv-Ex handle that provides a comfortable grip. The locking mechanism on the blade makes it incredibly secure and safe to use, even for the most demanding tasks. I particularly love the ability to click and switch between blades with the push of a button. It's a game-changer when it comes to versatility, ensuring I'm always equipped for any job at hand. The sheath is also a great addition, providing a secure way to carry the knife and extra blades when needed. That being said, there is one aspect I'd like to see improved: the handle's construction. While it provides a good grip, the finish is quite rough and not as premium as I would have hoped for. However, this minor critique does not deter me from fully recommending the Cold Steel Click-N-Cut Hunter Lockback Knife for both beginners and seasoned professionals alike. 🔗Compact Fixed Blade Knife with Black Handlehttps://preview.redd.it/2lx7495iwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3e441c0a83d2f27ee82eb1d40b8af1fdd43137a8 I recently got my hands on a Cold Steel SRK Compact fixed blade knife, and let me tell you, it's a game-changer for those seeking a reliable and stylish companion while on outdoor adventures. The knife features a compact handle & blade made of Kray-Ex & SK5, measuring in at just 12.5 cm (5 inches). Weighing only 145 grams, it's remarkably lightweight and effortless to carry around. One thing that struck me is the sturdy Secure-Ex sheath it comes with – it's a fantastic addition! However, I did notice a few minor drawbacks. Firstly, the blade edges seemed a bit too uneven for my liking. Secondly, I'm not a big fan of the flex hanger option, but that's just personal preference. Overall, I believe that the Cold Steel SRK Compact is a fantastic choice for outdoor enthusiasts. It's light, easy to carry, and offers great performance. Just make sure to sharpen it properly and maintain it well to enjoy its full potential. 🔗Stylish and durable AK-47 Field Knife by Cold Steelhttps://preview.redd.it/lj2g4aiiwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8f126f2d6b4bad6ddeeb14711f79cdb6eb778f45 The Cold Steel AK-47 Field Knife has quickly become a favorite amongst those seeking a reliable and sturdy multi-purpose fixed blade. Crafted with CPM3-V steel, this knife boasts a robust design that's perfect for tackling the rigors of everyday life. The stonewashed finish adds an element of toughness, ensuring that this field knife is ready for even the harshest conditions. Equipped with a full tang and integral steel pommel, the AK-47 Field Knife offers both functionality and durability. It also comes with a Secure-Ex sheath, providing the convenience of easy transportation. While this knife may not be ideal for all situations, those who value rugged reliability will appreciate its toughness and versatility. 🔗Slim D2 Steel Drop Point Pocket Knife for Everyday Usehttps://preview.redd.it/2y149zviwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=02c2d4549a12a870150c154daf4077b6994d473c I was initially impressed by the sleek look of the Cobratec Medium FSX Otf Grey 3" D2 Steel Drop Point. The 3.5 oz dual action otf, fully CNC machined out of aviation aluminum, made it light enough to carry in my pocket without any discomfort. The glass breaker and pocket clip were also handy features, perfect for any on-the-go emergency. However, I noticed some rough edges on the knife, which made it uncomfortable to handle for quite a while. Additionally, the D2 steel drop point didn't seem to hold up as well as I would've hoped, especially when I needed to cut through thicker materials. Despite its shortcomings, the Cobratec Medium FSX Otf Grey 3" D2 Steel Drop Point still managed to serve its purpose as a slim pocket knife. With a bit of adjustment and use, it might just become my go-to compact tool for everyday life. 🔗Gerber SALTRx Controller Fillet Folding Knife - Polished 9Cr18MoV Blade and Rubber Overmold Handle, Black/Blue Grip and 13-inch Overall Lengthhttps://preview.redd.it/twlntt7jwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ca20c275e770d5bb2ebbc6ea307633d33d242499 For the past few weeks, I've been using the Gerber Controller 6-inch Folding Fillet Knife, and let me tell you, it's been a game changer in my fishing adventures. The intuitive GuideFins and tactile HydroTread Grip offered the ultimate control of the knife, making those slippery conditions a non-issue. This handy companion was built with saltwater fishermen in mind, and its SALTRx protection exceeded my expectations, keeping the blade safe from corrosion, wear, and harsh environments. But let's be real, no product is perfect. As much as I loved the ergonomic handle and impressive blade, the weight of the knife sometimes felt a bit heavy. Nonetheless, it didn't hinder my experience in the field. Overall, the Gerber Controller 6-inch Folding Fillet Knife has become an essential tool in my fishing tackle bag, and I'm grateful for the company's commitment to creating high-quality, durable knives. 🔗Handcrafted 420 Stainless Steel Flipper Knife with Ziricote Wood Handlehttps://preview.redd.it/1b4xb9kjwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ffc72960e7e50e9773cbdb69b0d14a6411b29ef4 I recently fell in love with the Fox Knives Nauta Slip-Joint 420. This beauty is a sleek and stylish pocket knife that is perfect for daily use. The craftsmanship is simply impeccable, it's obvious that this baby was handcrafted in none other than Italy. The smooth operation of the slip-joint mechanism felt like handling a dream. What stood out to me was the comfortable grip provided by the ziricote wood handle. Aesthetically, it added a touch of elegance, yet functionally, it provided a secure and comfortable grip. The stainless steel, on the other hand, made it robust and sturdy. However, a downside was that the 4-inch blade length, while sufficient for most tasks, might come up a bit short for certain heavy-duty jobs. Overall, the Nauta Slip-Joint 420 from Fox Knives is a perfect blend of classic design and modern innovation. It definitely deserves a place in any knife enthusiast's collection. 🔗Queen 30R Slim Trapper Flipper Knife - UK Friendly Carryhttps://preview.redd.it/9upauavjwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=197915bb23bbe77d185b8e0e6ab4144b2b2ecea6 The Queen 30R Slim Trapper, a timeless flipper knife, has become a staple in my pocket for the past few months. With its sleek red handle and brass pins, this penknife grabs attention from onlookers who appreciate its quality and craftsmanship. Its two stainless steel blades with a non-locking mechanism make it perfect for everyday use and ideal for UK-friendly carry. While the knife is relatively small, it gets the job done, whether I need to open a package or cut through a string. However, it's not without its minor shortcomings—the penknife's slim design makes it easy to misplace in my bag, and occasional handling may reveal slight inconsistencies in its finish. Overall, the Queen 30R Slim Trapper has become a reliable and stylish part of my daily essentials. 🔗Folding Flipper Knife with Red Bone Handlehttps://preview.redd.it/tnak9q9kwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=056710d5df77c8510aed01cca01ad128d612100b I recently had the chance to try out the Frost Folding Hunter Red Bone, and I must say, it left quite an impression. This beauty is a sleek 3.75 inches (9.53cm) when closed, making it the perfect size for everyday carry. The mirror finish stainless clip and skinner blades add a touch of elegance that sets it apart from its counterparts. The most unique feature of the Frost Folding Hunter Red Bone has to be its red pick bone handle. It gives the knife a distinct, yet classic appeal. The nickel silver bolster(s) are a thoughtful addition to the design, adding a hint of luxury to the overall experience. While using the Frost Folding Hunter Red Bone, I noticed a couple of drawbacks as well. The size, while convenient, could make it a bit unwieldy for more demanding tasks. Additionally, some users might find the finish on the clip and blades to be prone to scratches over time. Overall, I think the Frost Folding Hunter Red Bone is a solid pick for anyone looking for an eye-catching, high-quality folding hunting knife. With its unique design and reliable performance, it's definitely worth considering. 🔗Frost Razor Lockback Knife with Red Bone Handlehttps://preview.redd.it/latbu3mkwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f1e05696b644abab3a50ddf88fb40a2cd207f058 I recently stumbled upon the Frost 17150RJB Razor Lockback Knife with its unique red jigged bone handles. This compact, sleek knife easily fits into my pocket and has an impressive mirror finish stainless razor blade. However, the red jigged bone handle feels a bit too delicate for my liking. Despite this minor drawback, it's been a trusty companion in my daily life, perfect for opening boxes or cutting fruit. 🔗Cold Steel Mini Trapper Folding Knife - High-Quality 8Cr13Mov Stainless Steelhttps://preview.redd.it/ofnjn6ykwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7098e149b6d63cd615366decb6cac8fc769b9eca I recently had the pleasure of using the Cold Steel Mini Trapper Folding Knife, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer in my daily routine. This little beauty is the perfect size for any task - large enough to get the job done, but not too cumbersome to carry around. The 8Cr13Mov stainless steel blade is durable and holds an edge well, while the yellow bone handle provides a comfortable grip. The overallweight of the knife is a meager 2.9 ounces, making it incredibly light and easy to toss in a pocket or bag. As someone who values classic design, I appreciated the mirror finish on the blade and the smooth brown bone handle - it has a timeless look that I really enjoy. However, I do wish the knife was made in a different country, as it seems that Taiwan is the manufacturing location. Despite this minor drawback, the Cold Steel Mini Trapper Folding Knife has become my go-to tool for various tasks around the house. It's a reliable and stylish addition to anyone's collection, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality pocket knife. 🔗Durable Flip Button Lock Utility Knife with Seat Belt Cutter and Wire Stripperhttps://preview.redd.it/626g45dlwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8a73219c8032843fc74325c9b7bf5792348e86a3 Recently, I had the chance to try out the Doyle Professional Flip Button Lock Utility Razor Knife. As someone who relies on utility knives for various tasks, I was curious to see how it would hold up compared to the bigger name brands. From the moment I opened the packaging, the aluminum blade and alloy steel handle felt solid and durable. The one-handed operation was really convenient, allowing me to quickly access the blade without any fuss. However, I did notice that changing the blade could be a bit tricky at first, but once I got the hang of it, it was quite simple. One feature that I found particularly handy was the integrated wire cutter and seat belt cutter. It made it so much easier to cut through lines and cords, especially when I needed to make quick adjustments. The lock-up on the blade was also surprisingly sturdy - I appreciated that it didn't rattle or clank around when I was using it. However, there were a couple of downsides. While the pocket clip was functional, it seemed a bit long and bulky compared to other utility knives I've used. Also, the handle could be a bit slippery at times, so I had to make sure I was holding it securely. Overall, the Doyle Professional Flip Button Lock Utility Razor Knife proved to be a reliable and versatile tool in my daily life. While there were a few minor drawbacks, its durability, convenience, and competitive pricing made it a worthwhile addition to my collection. 🔗Stainless Steel Flipper Knife with Green Bone Handlehttps://preview.redd.it/pvb7nprlwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1c2b71e471d1bfbd4c4a8beb564425dca3ad2a57 I recently came across the Frost 17150GSB Razor Lockback Knife with its sleek green smooth bone handles. As a reviewer, I've always enjoyed knives that catch my eye with their unique designs, and this one definitely fits the bill. The 2.5-inch mirror finish stainless razor blade is not only sharp and durable, but it also gives this knife a distinct look that sets it apart from other knives on the market. One small drawback for some users might be the locked-open handle. While it provides a secure closure, it also can make one-handed use and storage a bit more challenging. Regardless, the green smooth bone handles give this knife a sophisticated and elegant feel, making it a great addition to any knife enthusiast's collection. Overall, I'm pleased with this knife's performance and quality, and I believe it's a solid choice for anyone looking to add a unique and functional blade to their collection. 🔗Affordable and Portable Secure-Ex Neck Sheath Knifehttps://preview.redd.it/tx4znf3mwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a4365631ce15aa41eb1b96d55cf6d90b44b98e45 The Cold Steel 49NDE Hide Out is a versatile neck knife that I've been using daily for a while now and it has never failed to impress. One of the features that stood out to me is its lightweight design, weighing only 1.9oz. It's perfect for those who want a discreet yet effective self-defense tool. The blade is made of Japanese Aus 8A Stainless Steel, giving it an impressive edge sharpness and durability. The double-edged blade is Scandi ground, ensuring a strong and sharp tip, which is especially useful when you need it most. The Hide Out's handle is made of Kray-Ex, a weather-proof material that provides a great grip and security, even when your hands are wet. It's thin and flat, designed to give me a superior purchase on such a small, lightweight knife. The Secure-Ex sheath and bead chain lanyard make it easy to wear and carry around all day, while the knife itself remains concealed. However, there are a few drawbacks I've noticed. The AUS 8 steel can rust if not properly maintained, especially if you're using it as a neck knife. The blade scratches easily, making it less visually appealing over time. The bead chain necklace is quite stiff and can sometimes catch on clothes or other objects, making it slightly uncomfortable. Despite these minor issues, I've found the Cold Steel 49NDE Hide Out to be a reliable and effective neck knife that's perfect for those who need a reliable self-defense tool. 🔗Stylish and Durable Ranch Boss II Folding Knife with Faux Bone Handlehttps://preview.redd.it/vj4vsvjmwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fca149015c78448d9a394fee929175fb523f9f31 If you fancy rugged adventures and need a reliable companion in the great outdoors, Cold Steel's Ranch Boss II Folder 4 in Blade with Stag Handle could be the perfect addition to your gear. This folding knife features a durable SK-5 Carbon Steel blade and a striking faux sawed bone handle, offering both style and substance. One of the standout features of this knife is its thick, tapered blade that adds to its toughness, making it a great choice for hunting and hiking expeditions. The blade is razor sharp right out of the box, ensuring you'll be ready for any task at hand. The lock-up is secure, while the sheath is well made and includes a nice snap-on cover with thick leather. However, one small downside could be the sheath, which some users have found a little loose, making it less secure when attached to their belts. But this shouldn't diminish the overall value of the knife, which has won praise for its solid construction, great design, and fantastic edge retention. The Ranch Boss II Folder 4 in Blade with Stag Handle is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, versatile folding knife that looks as good as it performs. With its rugged appeal and impeccable craftsmanship, this Cold Steel knife is sure to become a reliable companion on your next great adventure. Buyer's GuideFlipper knives are the must-have tools for any EDC enthusiast, adventure seeker, or survivalist. These versatile blades are designed for multi-tasking and are perfect for everyday use. Before you make a purchase, take a moment to consider these important features, considerations, and general advice about the product category.1. Design and ConstructionThe design and construction of a flipper knife determine its overall functionality and durability. Look for a one-piece, solid construction with an ergonomic grip, ensuring comfort during extended use. The blade should be made from high-quality steel, offering excellent edge retention and rust resistance.Additionally, consider the blade shape and size, as these factors will influence the knife's cutting capabilities. Popular flipper knife designs include clip point, droptip, and sheepsfoot, with blade lengths ranging from 3 to 7 inches. 2. Locking Mechanismhttps://preview.redd.it/ygxeqjmowh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fe591aecaad156b03a517f0cf76c17545e0405d9 A reliable locking mechanism is essential for both safety and functionality. Look for a flipper knife with a secure lock-up, preventing accidental opening and ensuring the blade stays locked during use. Most high-quality flipper knives rely on the friction lock or the liner lock systems, both providing a smooth and secure action. 3. Weight and PortabilityAs with any EDC item, it is crucial to consider the weight and portability of a flipper knife. A lightweight, compact design allows easy carrying in pockets, backpacks, or other everyday carry gear. When shopping for a flipper knife, keep the balance between portability and functionality in mind.4. Maintenance and CareProper maintenance and care are essential for an optimal performance and longevity of a flipper knife. Always clean the blade after use and keep it dry to prevent rusting. Periodic sharpening with a suitable sharpening tool will ensure your blade remains sharp and efficient.5. BudgetBefore purchasing a flipper knife, set a reasonable budget to help narrow down your options. Flipper knives come in various price ranges, with some affordable options offering basic functionality and others targeting the high-end market, providing top-notch performance and durability.Remember that investing in a higher quality flipper knife, though more expensive, can save you money in the long run by requiring fewer replacements and upgrades, as well as providing better performance and lasting protection. https://preview.redd.it/93c1cd1pwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2e4c14cc22886671998678ac33fdc57a17fb35bc 6. Brand Reputation and ReviewsDo your research and read customer reviews to get a sense of the brand's reputation and product quality. A well-established brand with a history of delivering high-quality knives and customer satisfaction is more likely to provide a reliable and premium flipper knife. Keep in mind that customer opinions can be subjective, so look for patterns and consistent feedback to make an informed decision.7. Purpose and Intended UseBefore selecting a flipper knife, consider the specific activities or tasks you plan to use it for. Will it primarily be for cutting rope or opening packages, or will it be more of a general utility tool? Understanding the knife's intended use will help you choose the appropriate size, blade shape, and general features tailored to your needs.8. Handling and ComfortAs a flipper knife is designed for both practicality and convenience, it is essential that it is comfortable for you to handle and use. Ensure that the grip is comfortable, providing a secure and non-slip grip, even when wet or sweaty. Properly fitting your grip to your hand is crucial for safety and overall performance.9. Additional Featureshttps://preview.redd.it/p6fk3lupwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0649952b0b5a543e94370eba24416bd5691994fb Some high-end flipper knives offer additional features such as a built-in bottle opener, lanyard, or even a glass breaker. While these features may not be essential, they can enhance the overall user experience and versatility of the knife. Consider your preferences and intended use when deciding whether to prioritize these additional features. 10. Warranty and Customer SupportA reliable warranty and customer support are essential factors when buying any product, including flipper knives. Ensure that the brand offers a reasonable warranty covering manufacturer defects and that they provide excellent customer support, addressing any concerns or issues that may arise.By considering these important features, considerations, and general advice, you can make a well-informed decision when purchasing the perfect flipper knife to suit your needs and preferences. FAQWhat are flipper knives?Flipper knives are a type of folding knife that features a unique, ergonomic handle design. The handle has a specific shape that allows the user to perform specific actions in a more comfortable and efficient way compared to other folding knives. https://preview.redd.it/6iy2vm8qwh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=96673f26ff3b5f2ba53dce04f6cd81e26fbdcf38 Why do people prefer flipper knives over other folding knives?Some people prefer flipper knives over other folding knives because of their ergonomic design and better grip, which makes the use of the knife more comfortable and productive. Flipper knives also utilize a different opening mechanism, utilizing the large thumb hole or the flip tab instead of the traditional pull-back tab. This opens the knife more quickly and efficiently.How does the opening mechanism of a flipper knife work?The opening mechanism of a flipper knife typically involves using the large thumb hole or the flip tab on the knife. To open the knife, the user simply has to place their thumb on this hole or flip of the knife and quickly flick it downward. This movement applies force to the liner lock mechanism, opening the blade quickly and effectively.Are flipper knives more durable than other folding knives?Durability ultimately depends on the specific design and materials used in the creation of the knife. While some flipper knives may be more durable than other folding knives, it's essential to compare the materials and construction of each to evaluate their specific durability. In general, flipper knives have sturdy handles and robust mechanisms, making them potentially resilient options.Do flipper knives have a specific locking method?Yes, flipper knives typically use a liner lock for their locking mechanism. The liner lock is a simple and reliable locking system that includes a locking bar, or a section of the liner, that slides into a groove on the blade. When the blade is open, the liner lock stays in the closed position, allowing the flipper knife to be easily closed and opened. Once the knife is closed and locked, the user can confidently carry or use their flipper knife without worrying about it accidentally opening.What are some popular brands of flipper knives?Popular brands of flipper knives include Spyderco, Benchmade, CRKT, and Kershaw. Each of these brands offers a variety of flipper folding knives in different materials, sizes, and designs to appeal to a range of customers.What are the pros and cons of owning a flipper knife?
What are the dimensions and weight of a typical flipper knife?Dimensions and weight of a typical flipper knife vary depending on the brand and model. Overall length generally ranges between 7.5 inches and 10 inches, closed length is usually between 4 inches and 5.5 inches, and blade thickness is around 0.12 inches. As for the weight, a typical flipper knife weighs around 4 ounces to 6 ounces.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.06.09 08:33 Stage-Piercing727 Best Flashlight With Laser Pointer
 | submitted by Stage-Piercing727 to u/Stage-Piercing727 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/7wuwgxojqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6430d490c696037c4d3116c2e74323acfdc51e6b Let's shed some light on the best Flashlight With Laser Pointer options available in the market. The Top 11 Best Flashlight With Laser Pointer
Reviews🔗Powerful Red Laser Pointer for Stargazing and Multi-Purpose Use📷https://preview.redd.it/8rz8egnlqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0181c6cfcdbec49b736d337e832b66ddb574d82a The Cowjag Laser Pointer is a versatile and powerful device that exceeds expectations. With its adjustable focus and long-range capabilities, this laser pointer is perfect for a variety of uses including astronomy, hiking, camping, and even pet games. The sturdy and durable construction, made from high-quality brushed aluminum alloy, makes it a reliable companion for all your adventures. Additionally, its chargeable USB port ensures you'll never run out of power. However, there is a cautionary note: please do not point the laser beam at your head or eyes, and keep it out of reach of children. Overall, the Cowjag Laser Pointer is a fantastic investment for those seeking a versatile and durable laser pointer that serves a multitude of purposes. 🔗Smith & Wesson Delta Force PL-10 Laser Penlight - Picatinny Laser Flashlight with Self Defense Tiphttps://preview.redd.it/0p8kakulqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=aa4475a5029c5cfbf15ad5123e3c33660b756a19 I recently had the opportunity to give the Smith & Wesson Delta Force PL-10 LED Penlight a try, and let me tell you, it was quite the experience. The main highlight of this penlight, of course, is its unique combination of pen, flashlight, and laser pointer features. I have to admit, it was pretty cool to have all these functionalities in one compact tool. One of the first things I noticed while using this penlight is the sturdy construction. It is made of anodized aerospace aluminum, which gives it a solid, reliable feel. The metal body is lightweight yet durable, making it comfortable to carry around. Additionally, the anodization process ensures that the penlight is both water and impact resistant, adding to its overall durability. However, there were a few aspects about this penlight that I found a bit disappointing. For example, the assembly of the penlight felt a bit loose, especially when twisting to activate or deactivate the light or laser. This made me a bit concerned about the long-term reliability of the penlight. Another minor inconvenience I encountered was the battery arrangement. While it comes with a conveniently included AAA battery, the penlight does not specify a preference for battery polarity, which might lead to some confusion for users. As for the actual performance of the penlight, I have mixed feelings. The CREE XPE2 LED light was quite bright and provided a good level of illumination. The laser pointer, on the other hand, was not as powerful as I had hoped. It only reached about 30 feet, making it less effective for certain applications, such as tracing pipes or identifying distant objects. Despite these minor issues, the Smith & Wesson Delta Force PL-10 LED Penlight is still a solid choice for those looking for a versatile, handy tool that combines pen, flashlight, and laser pointer functionalities. Its durable construction and unique design make it a standout option in the market. 🔗High-Power, Long Range Laser Pointer and Flashlight for Outdoor Activitieshttps://preview.redd.it/drzuomcmqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c2cefe321b32cd859b8b80c698ae3caefd55b065 I recently had the chance to use the Cowjag Laser Pointer during a camping trip, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. The first thing I noticed was its incredible range - I saw the green laser beam illuminating everything up to 10,000 feet at night, making it perfect for navigating through the wilderness. The build quality was top-notch too; it's made of high-quality brushed aluminum alloy that feels sturdy and durable. The hand strap made it easy to hold and carry as well. But just remember, don't point the laser beam at your head or eyes, and keep it out of reach of children. Another great thing about this laser pointer is its versatility. It isn't just a powerful LED light for the outdoors, but it can also be used as a tactical flashlight for presentations or even for pet games. And if you ever run out of battery, it's easily chargeable through a USB port. Overall, the Cowjag Laser Pointer was a reliable and versatile companion on my camping trip. 🔗Compact, Durable Rechargeable Focus Flashlight with Laser Pointerhttps://preview.redd.it/5mq6a0ymqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3675294001a93d22095ef409d9ff01f849b336a2 The Klein Tools Rechargeable Focus LED Flashlight with Laser is a fantastic tool that I've been using daily for several months now. Its lithium-ion battery provides a full 12 hours of runtime, which is perfect for my needs. The adjustable focus is a great feature, allowing me to easily switch between spotlight and floodlight modes. The pinpoint accuracy of the Class IIIa red laser has been incredibly helpful for pinpointing objects in hard-to-reach places. The strong magnetic end cap lets me operate hands-free, while the removable pocket clip ensures easy accessibility. One thing I particularly appreciate about this flashlight is its durability. It withstands the pressures of daily use, as evidenced by its 10-foot drop rating and IP54 water- and dust-resistant construction. However, one downside I've noticed is that the laser has stopped functioning after just a few months of use. This is quite disappointing, especially given the product's otherwise impressive performance. I'm also not a big fan of the switch mechanism, which is quite sensitive, making it easy to accidentally turn the light on or off. Overall, the Klein Tools Rechargeable Focus LED Flashlight with Laser has been a reliable and useful addition to my tool collection. Despite the concerns regarding the laser and the switch, the product's other features have made it a worthwhile investment. 🔗Powerful Tactical Green Beam Flashlight and Laser Pointer Cat Toyhttps://preview.redd.it/j5bb86anqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2154d1e5cf4cd7b0d3ee70fa457e0a0f9ae3d3a5 I've been using the IVVTRYI Long Range High Power Tactical Green Beam Flashlight Laser Pointer rechargeable for a few weeks now, and it has become a handy tool for my daily life. The first thing that caught my attention was its portability. The compact size allows me to carry it around easily. It's a perfect addition to my backpack or bag. One of the standout features is the rotating top cap, which creates a star effect when I flip the light on. It's a simple addition, but adds a touch of magic to my moments. The adjustable focus makes it easy to use for both long and short distances. However, there are a couple of downsides worth mentioning. The first is that the laser is quite bright and might not be suitable for all situations or environments. I recently tried using it during a late-night walk, and it attracted quite a few unwanted attention. The second issue I encountered is with the charging. I've found that it takes a while for the laser pointer to fully charge, which might be inconvenient for some users who depend on it frequently. Despite these drawbacks, the IVVTRYI Long Range High Power Tactical Green Beam Flashlight Laser Pointer rechargeable has been a useful addition to my daily life. It's a versatile tool that has proven to be both practical and entertaining. With its small size and various functions, it's a must-have for those who are always on the move. Just remember to be mindful of the brightness, and be patient during the charging process. 🔗Milwaukee 250L Rechargeable Penlight with Laser Pointerhttps://preview.redd.it/pris62rnqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=950469a47113f5889b34976516fec00785a4c781 As a reviewer who's tried this Milwaukee 2010R Penlight with Laser, I must say it was quite a mixed experience. On the one hand, the build quality is impressive – the protective rubber bite zone works well, and the impact-resistant casing feels sturdy. I also appreciated the two output modes that allowed me to conserve battery life while still having enough brightness for trickier tasks. However, the product didn't shine in some areas. Firstly, the charging process was a bit troublesome, with unpredictable flashing issues that seemed to affect the performance of the flashlight. Secondly, the battery life was quite disappointing, draining after just a couple of hours of use. Lastly, I found the laser pointer to be rather unreliable, with the button failing to respond properly after just a few weeks. Still, overall, the Milwaukee 2010R Penlight with Laser has its good points, such as the LED bulb and the convenient USB charging. But if you're looking for a more dependable flashlight, there might be better alternatives available. 🔗High Power Laser Pointer Flashlight with Extraordinary Range and Carrying Casehttps://preview.redd.it/a76ga73oqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fddd6b46f6eecc6a0858db5329c5f2c01fe97062 As I began to hunt for a laser pointer that could withstand the wilderness, I stumbled upon the Cowjag Green Laser Pointer. With its high-power flashlight and single push-on feature, I knew I had found the perfect companion. The laser pointer itself is a robust beast, with a rugged brushed aluminum housing that's both shock-resistant and waterproof. It's a reliable partner for both wilderness adventures and late-night hikes. But what really stood out to me is the long battery life, which lasts up to 8 hours per charge. The premium, padded carrying case that comes with the Cowjag laser pointer also impressed me. I can easily take it on the go without worrying about damage. However, I did notice a small quirk - the laser beam should not be pointed at your head and eyes. With a little caution, it's a minor inconvenience. Overall, the Cowjag Green Laser Pointer is a highly portable and durable device, perfect for those who crave the great outdoors. It's a shining star in my backpack, ready to light up my path. 🔗High-Power Green Laser Pointer Flashlight (1-2000 Meters)https://preview.redd.it/lu4zxwhoqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=28d2966703df09bee5c61887a5eea4a577526f6c The Siisll laser pointer flashlight is a versatile and powerful tool that can be used in a multitude of situations. In my experience, the flashlight's impressive range of up to 2000 meters made it a go-to for outdoor activities and professional projects alike. The rechargeable green laser pointer was particularly convenient, providing a bright and long-lasting beam for precision work. While the adjustable focus allowed me to customize the beam to suit my needs, the high-quality construction and materials that made the flashlight sturdy and durable were the standout features. This flashlight was a reliable companion during camping trips, hikes, and even at nighttime astronomy sessions. However, one downside I experienced was the size and weight of the laser pointer flashlight, making it less portable for some activities. Despite this, the Siisll laser pointer flashlight remains a versatile and high-quality tool, ideal for anyone in need of a reliable, bright, and adjustable beam for their projects. 🔗Long Range High Power LED Laser Pointer Flashlighthttps://preview.redd.it/6ov4igxoqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=91de3379bc05a04e32894cca448fec321991389e I recently had the chance to try out the Cyahvtl Laser Pointer, Tactical Flashlights, and I must say, it's quite the impressive gadget. With a range of 2000 meters, this flashlight is perfect for those late-night adventures or survival scenarios. The rechargeable USB feature is a game-changer, as it eliminates the need for disposable batteries. The design of this flashlight feels top-notch with its aluminum alloy construction. It's perfect for those rainy days when you need a reliable flashlight companion. The two modes of the crystal head – straight line and gypsophila – provide added functionality and variety. One thing that stood out is the safety notice. Be cautious not to aim the green laser beam at people's heads and eyes, and keep it away from children. Despite these minor concerns, the Cyahvtl Laser Pointer, Tactical Flashlights are a must-have for anyone seeking a high-performance flashlight with added laser capabilities. 🔗High-Power LED Flashlight with Laser and UV Lighthttps://preview.redd.it/5fe2dvdpqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=10aae87238472d5142e74fe615276ac267ddad4c As someone who frequently needs a reliable flashlight, I was excited to try out the Wiha High-Power LED Flashlight. This tactical torch has more than just a simple beam; it's equipped with a red pointer laser and UV torch light for work applications. The two different torch settings offer either 100 lumens or 280 lumens, making it great for any lighting situation. Its IP54 rainproof feature ensures it can withstand a bit of moisture, while the 65-meter beam reaches further than most other flashlights I've tried. The 1-meter drop protection gives me peace of mind when I inevitably drop it during an outdoor project. The magnetic base plate is a handy feature for propping it up, and the swivel/tilt head makes it easy to adjust the angle. Additionally, it comes with a belt loop clip and magnetic base plate, making it easy to attach to various objects. Plus, it's supplied with 3 x AAA batteries, which is convenient when you're in a hurry to use it. With integrated UV light and a red laser light, this tool is not only practical for everyday work, but it also provides that extra touch of professionalism when needed. Overall, this flashlight from Wiha has become a staple in my toolbox, and its versatile features make it a must-have for anyone's collection. 🔗Portable High-Intensity LED Flashlight with Compact Designhttps://preview.redd.it/a72xbvwpqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=621d6648bb35d015041837ad335ad28fce2e0aa1 Nextool" is a reliable 4-tool flashlight that shines impressively. I took it out for a spin recently, and the 1400-lumen TIR lens truly exceeded my expectations in terms of visibility. This tiny powerhouse made all my outdoor adventures safer and more enjoyable, thanks to its 200-meter long range. The product is constructed with a rugged aluminum alloy body, which gives it a solid and sturdy feel. It's surprisingly lightweight and fits perfectly in a pocket, making it an ideal companion for daily use. The IPX7 water resistance rating on this one ensures it can withstand a good drenching without a hitch. Another aspect that really impressed me was the built-in 18650 Li-Battery type-C USB rechargeable feature. Just plug it into a USB source when it's running low, and it'll be back up and running in no time. The flashlight even has a clever smart battery indicator embedded in the charging port. However, a small drawback I noticed was that the laser pointer could be a bit less stable at times. Although it still worked effectively for close-range activities, it would be nice if it was more steady. All in all, with its portability, durability, rechargeability, and practical features, "Nextool" is an excellent investment for anyone needing a compact but powerful flashlight. Buyer's GuideBefore purchasing a flashlight with a laser pointer, consider the following features and tips to make an informed decision.Brightnesshttps://preview.redd.it/jp6awseqqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=692a605e4bdbf6861a0319b82260b610110757a0 The brightness of the flashlight is measured in lumens. A higher number of lumens indicates a brighter light, which can be handy in dark environments. Choose a flashlight with a minimum of 300 lumens for general use. Beam DistanceBeam distance measures the distance the light travels before it becomes too dim to be useful. For a flashlight with a laser pointer, a minimum of 1000 meters is recommended for outdoor scenarios.Durability and Water ResistanceThe flashlight should be durable and able to withstand accidental drops. Look for a water-resistant flashlight with an IPX7 or higher rating to protect the device from water damage. https://preview.redd.it/qfk044tqqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d50f695119d81af4104178553f3a5b79b45db943 Battery Life and TypeConsider the battery life and type of the flashlight. It is recommended to choose a flashlight with a long battery life, preferably rechargeable, and compatible with your preferred power source. Common battery types include alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.Ease of Use and ErgonomicsA good flashlight should be easy to use and have a comfortable grip. Look for features like a rotatary switch, multiple brightness levels, or variable beam control to enhance the user experience.Accessories and Additional Featureshttps://preview.redd.it/jjldpjbrqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=712e1cdf14b8381692120c5ceb1772f205d4702f Accessories such as a keychain holster, belt clip, pocket clip, or removable filter can be useful. Additionally, consider features like a strobe light, SOS signal, or a built-in compass for added functionality. When selecting a flashlight with a laser pointer, remember to consider factors like brightness, beam distance, durability, battery life, ease of use, and accessories. Choose a reliable and versatile product to suit your needs. FAQWhat is a flashlight with laser pointer?A flashlight with laser pointer is a type of flashlight that also features a built-in laser pointer. The flashlight provides a bright beam of light, while the laser pointer provides a narrow, focused beam of light. https://preview.redd.it/jpid70trqh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5759e7c2edda598bf02478391845ac29011f94d8 What are the advantages of a flashlight with laser pointer?
What are some features to look for in a flashlight with laser pointer?
How can I use a flashlight with laser pointer?A flashlight with laser pointer can be used in a variety of ways. For example, you can use the flashlight for illumination in dark environments, while the laser pointer can be used to point out objects, animals, or to signal for help.Are there any safety concerns when using a flashlight with laser pointer?Yes, there are some safety concerns when using a flashlight with laser pointer. The laser beam can be dangerous if aimed directly at someone's eyes, so it's essential to exercise caution when using the product. Additionally, using the flashlight with laser pointer for extended periods can cause eye strain and discomfort.What are the best flashlights with laser pointers on the market?To determine the best flashlights with laser pointers, research different options and read customer reviews. Consider factors such as brightness, battery life, durability, and additional features when making your decision.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.06.09 08:30 Count-Daring243 Best Flashlight Stun Gun
 | submitted by Count-Daring243 to u/Count-Daring243 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/5pbjvfnxph5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f8305f527906dbd1400da73a2639b24f1e2d5557 Welcome to our roundup of the Flashlight Stun Gun, a versatile and practical safety device designed to keep you protected in any situation. In this article, we'll showcase some of the top-rated stun guns with built-in flashlights, sharing their features, benefits, and how they can help you stay safe and secure. Whether you're looking for a reliable self-defense tool or a multi-functional light source, we've got you covered. Buckle up as we dive into the world of the Flashlight Stun Gun and explore the best options available on the market. The Top 19 Best Flashlight Stun Gun
Reviews🔗Powerful High-Voltage Stun Gun for Securityhttps://preview.redd.it/xtq0667yph5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c4cd3ef1c6496bbda6da94f14e7a08e194b0b329 Recently, I had the chance to try out the Guard Dog LIGHTSAFER Stun Gun w/ Tac Light. This handy device is perfect for those who want to feel secure in their day-to-day life. With its concealed high voltage stun capability, I was able to immobilize an aggressor before they could get too close. The powerful bolt was not only intimidating, but also effective in making them retreat. The stun gun's 400-lumen flashlight comes in handy in a variety of situations, whether you're walking home late at night or just taking a shortcut through a dark alley. Additionally, the battery life indicator was a real lifesaver, as it allowed me to keep track of when the device needed recharge. The stun gun's shockproof anti-roll body, made of type III aircraft-grade aluminum, gives it the durability it needs to endure any tough situation. Overall, the Guard Dog LIGHTSAFER Stun Gun w/ Tac Light has proved to be a reliable and effective device for anyone seeking self-defense tools. 🔗Portable LED Stun Flashlight with Ergonomic Grip and Lithium Batteryhttps://preview.redd.it/i7k6nmiyph5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bf241fa27a3fc01f88e379daf9bdebb44d0ab409 From my personal experience, the PS Zap Stun Stick, or as I like to call it, the "pink powerhouse, " has become an essential part of my daily routine. As a fitness enthusiast, the soft rubber coating and non-slip molded grip were a game-changer for those long walks and late-night runs. The stun gun color, combined with the two ultra-bright LED bulbs, adds an extra layer of safety without compromising style. The included lithium CR2 batteries, wrist strap, and belt case ensure convenience wherever I go. However, it's not all rainbows and sunshine with this powerful little device. After experiencing moderate to severe pain from a stun gun in the past, I can tell you the Zap Stick delivers a powerful punch. The arching sound is quite loud too, making it even more intimidating for potential attackers. While some users found the built-in holster lacking in grip, I was pleasantly surprised by how sturdy it was. The tough rubber coating and finger grooves offer an excellent grip, even when I'm feeling a bit sweaty during my runs. And let's not forget the bonus feature: a bright flashlight for those dark encounters. Now, a word of caution: this product might not be for everyone. Some users have reported it not being as powerful as advertised or having issues with the shipping process. It's essential to check if the device is allowed in your state before purchasing. But overall, for me, the Zap Stick has become an invaluable part of my daily self-defense routine. 🔗Compact, Powerful Stun Gun for Self-Defensehttps://preview.redd.it/ein6bqbzph5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9e23abce170539ff6c932f46a029eff73541c093As a daily commuter, I found the Blingsting Stunning Gun to be a reliable companion. Its compact size fits comfortably in my bag, always at the ready when I need it most. The powerful high-voltage charge delivered by the gun is as effective as a police taser, providing an immediate disabling pain to bring down an attacker. However, the stun gun also has a safety feature, with an on/off switch to prevent accidental misfires. The product's other features stood out as well, with a wristlet strap and three lithium-ion batteries included for convenience. And let's not forget, the gun's sparks and sounds make it clear that you are trying to defend yourself if needed. Overall, the Blingsting Stunning Gun is a gift of peace of mind for women, college students, nurses, and UbeLyft drivers. 🔗High-Intensity 50,000 Volt Taser Strikelight 2 Kit with Flashlight and Wrist Straphttps://preview.redd.it/r7iz19szph5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d02211212939d7a75f37d87a9a21336a2bdba679 The Strikelight 2 Kit from Taser International is a unique blend of safety and security. I was impressed by its combination of an 80-lumen flashlight and a stun gun within the same device. This makes it convenient for those who want to carry a personal defense tool without needing to separate light from stun features. With two separate activation buttons, it's easy to switch between the two modes without any accidental discharges. What stood out to me is the quality of the materials used for the device. Its lightweight anodized finished aluminum and high-strength polymer front lens holder make it sturdy and reliable. Additionally, the anti-roll design ensures that the stun flashlight is easy to use. The Strikelight 2 Kit comes with a rechargeable battery that lasts for up to 5 hours of continuous light or 100 5-second stun discharges when fully charged. I appreciated the inclusion of a wrist strap, which made it easier for me to carry the device. While the Taser Strikelight 2 Kit is a powerful personal protection tool, it does require a bit of recharge time, which may seem inconvenient to some users. However, the versatility of the device and the combination of its features make it a valuable addition for those seeking personal safety. 🔗Tasers for Self Defense with Built-In Charger and Flashlighthttps://preview.redd.it/xz7q2qa0qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b533ea8b9537c2e3a458ea4ea66ca9290cb7b9e4 I've never felt safer than when I carry the 80,000,000 Volt Zebra Multiguard in my pocket. This self-defense tool is sleek and easily concealed, but don't be fooled by its unassuming size. With its cutting-edge micro-technology, it packs quite a punch. One of the stand-out features is the super-loud siren, which is great for drawing attention to any dangerous situation and potentially defusing it before it escalates. And let's not forget the blinding 120 Lumens LED flashlight—perfectly timed to blind an attacker while you make your escape. The rubberized coating provides a secure grip, and you can easily carry it in your hand or pocket for convenience. The included built-in charger is a must-have feature, ensuring you're always ready for action. Lastly, the heavy-duty nylon belt loop holster keeps your Multiguard safe and secure when not in use. While the Zebra Multiguard packs a powerful punch, it does have some drawbacks. The electrifying stun feature can be a bit too intense for some users, so it might be worth considering how well you can handle it. Overall, though, it's a solid choice for those seeking personal protection and safety on the go. 🔗Zap Hike N' Strike: Secure LED Flashlight and Stun Gun Hiking Staffhttps://preview.redd.it/znoe9uj0qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=50348eb8acf3c73070426dc6cbad8d6eb0b39e48 As a frequent hiker, I've always been on the lookout for ways to stay safe in the great outdoors, especially when it comes to potential encounters with wildlife. When I stumbled upon the Hike 'n Strike, I was intrigued by the concept of a stun gun and flashlight all in one. Upon receiving the product, I was impressed by the weight, which felt substantial yet manageable. The bright orange shaft made me more visible in the woods, and the removable reflective yellow band added an extra touch of safety. The rubber handle felt comfortable to grip, and the adjustable shaft allowed for a perfect fit for a variety of hikers. One of the most noteworthy features of the Hike 'n Strike was the placement of the button for the stun gun. Located almost two feet away from the prongs, I found it easier to activate and aim the stun gun without accidentally shocking myself. It's a design that sets this product apart from other stun guns on the market, which often place the button too close to the prongs. However, there were a few downsides to the Hike 'n Strike. Firstly, the included batteries do not last long. With frequent use of the flashlight and stun gun, the batteries drain quickly, and I found myself needing to replace them more frequently than I would have liked. It would have been convenient if the product came with a rechargeable option. Secondly, the rubber cover for the prongs tends to come loose and is easily detachable. I've lost one already and have had to replace it with electrical tape. I would have preferred if the company provided a stronger solution for keeping the cover securely attached. Overall, the Hike 'n Strike has impressed me with its unique design and emphasis on safety and security during hikes. Despite the drawbacks, I would recommend this product to fellow hikers who value their safety and desire a device that serves multiple purposes. 🔗Taser X2 Professional Series: Compact, Long-Range, Contact Stun Device for Home Protectionhttps://preview.redd.it/0sqgk7u1qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5e3aaa85d0c2499d0a48e6d24b206348f386e611 When I first heard about the Taser X2 Professional Series, I was intrigued by its ability to provide immediate back-up. As someone who values safety, this device stood out to me as a game-changer. The first feature that caught my attention was the Neuro-muscular Incapacitation (nmi) technology. It was truly amazing how it temporarily overrode an attacker's central nervous system, limiting their muscular control for 5 seconds. This feature really gave me the confidence I needed during those close encounters. The laser targeting paired with the powerful LED flashlight was also a highlight. The targets were hard to miss, even in low-light situations. The 15-foot safety range was perfect for ensuring ample space to make a safe escape. One drawback I experienced was the weight of the device. It wasn't heavy enough to weigh you down, but it was a noticeable difference compared to other personal protection devices I've used. In conclusion, the Taser X2 Professional Series has become an essential part of my home security and daily life. Its advanced technology, durability, and ease of use make it a must-have for anyone looking to strengthen their personal protection plans. 🔗Long Range Taser for Self Defense and Securityhttps://preview.redd.it/bv8w3ky3qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=115f73da791a6c3a34031420ae6cb6080db5ae7f The Guard Dog Knightro stun gun is an impressive piece of self-defense equipment that I've been putting to the test in my daily life. Not only is it built like a tank, but it's also incredibly powerful and capable of stunning potential attackers. The Type III aluminum alloy construction and reinforced body can withstand a variety of impacts, making it a reliable tool for any situation. One of the most striking features of the Knightro is the concealed inner stun technology. This allows for a seamless integration of the stun gun and flashlight, making it more discreet and versatile for everyday carry or security purposes. The built-in tactical flashlight is another impressive aspect, offering three light settings including high, low, and emergency flashing strobe. While overall the product has been an excellent addition to my self-defense arsenal, it does have a few drawbacks. The stun gun has quite a loud and imposing discharge, which may startle bystanders. Additionally, the switch between the flashlight and stun gun can be a bit cumbersome and somewhat difficult to operate in a high-stress situation. Overall, the Guard Dog Knightro stun gun is a powerful and reliable tool for anyone looking to enhance their personal safety. It's built to withstand even the toughest conditions, and the seamless integration of the stun gun and tactical flashlight is a great feature. My only concern would be with the switch between the light and stun gun, which can be a bit tricky to operate in a panic. 🔗2 Million Volt Non-Lethal Taser for Personal Protectionhttps://preview.redd.it/a6ev3n64qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cf1cf4708cc9c5cba8408da77e4e3fd47b7db38a I recently received the PS Zap Enforcer 2 Mil Blk Zapen and couldn't wait to try it out. With its 2 million-volt stun gun feature, I felt it would be my new best friend in ensuring my safety during my evening walks. However, one thing I noticed was the size - it felt a bit too large for my hands, particularly for someone like me who is only 5'3. Using this product, I found the flashlight to be extremely useful. The bright beam made it easy to navigate through the pitch-black nights, while the stun gun function made me feel safe knowing I could defend myself if needed. The metal exterior and sturdy construction added to the product's reliability. However, the charging issue proved to be a bit of a pain. After using it for a few days, the battery seemed to drain quickly, and despite being warned about this, I still found myself struggling to keep it powered throughout the day. Another minor issue was the lack of a smaller or more portable option, as the size could be a bit unwieldy for some people. Overall, the PS Zap Enforcer 2 Mil Blk Zapen has its pros and cons, but it's definitely a useful tool for those seeking a bit of extra security in their daily lives. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a stun gun flashlight, but just remember to keep an eye on the battery life to avoid being left in the dark. 🔗Ultra-Bright LED Flashlight Walking Cane with Shocking Zap Defensehttps://preview.redd.it/i2uwxfj4qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4fe27d9e2c90abb45ba0fb5cebc478732b8e5655 I recently came across the Zap Stun Walking Cane, which has proven to be a handy device for those who require additional support while walking. I've used it for a few weeks now, and I must say, this all-in-one stun walking cane has earned a prominent position in my daily routine. The ultrabright LED flashlight is a game-changer, especially for those who find themselves walking in poorly lit areas. The built-in stun function adds an additional layer of security, which I appreciate, but also comes with its share of responsibilities. It's essential to be well-informed about its usage and have a solid understanding of its power, so you can use it only when necessary. The cane itself is sturdy and well-constructed, and it accommodates users of varying heights comfortably. Its ability to defend from a safe distance makes it a smart choice for those who prioritize personal safety. However, some users might find the design a bit overwhelming, as it might draw attention from others. Overall, the Zap Stun Walking Cane has made a significant impact on my safety and convenience. Its blend of functionality and style warrants its high rating. That said, I do wish for some clearer safety guidelines and perhaps more instruction on maintaining its battery life to ensure it continues to serve its purpose effectively. 🔗Secure Pistol-Grip Taser with LED Lighthttps://preview.redd.it/zx0z4lt4qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0eb3b4a05db7f00e9789509c8be7013f2aa478d6 The Zapgun by PS Products packs a mighty punch of 950,000 volts in a compact package. After living with it for a while, the first thing that comes to mind is its secure pistol-grip shape - perfect for your hand, even in the dark. The 60 lumen LED light really shines through and, let's face it, sometimes a bright light is all you need to ward off intruders. One of the features that stands out for me is its non-slip molded grip. It's a simple design but it keeps accidental discharges to a minimum. Of course, living with it also means facing its drawbacks. For one, it's made in China and that might be a concern for some buyers. Also, the size of the product can be a bit unwieldy, especially when you need to carry it around. But overall, the PS Products Zapgun gets my seal of approval. It feels good, it works well, and it's a powerful self-defense tool that fits neatly under your belt. The loud zap noise definitely gives others a reason to think twice before messing with you. Now, if only they could make it smaller and lighter. I can't help but wonder how useful it would be if we had a cute version of this taser - think floppy ears and a wagging tail! 🔗Maximum Strength Tactical Stun Gun with Flashlight & Holsterhttps://preview.redd.it/25u5x0a5qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=41ea3603b399f29addf77c9fd18c12eb08a6381c The Sabre 2.517 UC Tactical Stun Gun with Flashlight has been a helpful addition to my self-defense arsenal. The stun gun's maximum strength of 2.51 uC ensures that it packs a powerful punch, giving me the confidence I need when I'm out and about. The 130-lumen LED flashlight is a great feature, helping me disorient anyone who might be threatening me from a distance. The fact that it has a rechargeable battery is an added perk, and I appreciate how the charging cord is included in the package. However, there have been a few minor drawbacks. Firstly, the holster that comes with the stun gun doesn't seem to be as well-made as the rest of the product. I had to resew the stitching on the belt loop strap after it broke only a few days after putting it on. Secondly, the charging light only worked the first time I plugged it in. Since then, I have no idea if it's actually charging or not, which is a bit concerning. Overall, I would say that the Sabre 2.517 UC Tactical Stun Gun with Flashlight is a reliable and powerful self-defense tool that I'm glad to have by my side. Despite the minor issues I've encountered, it has proven to be a valuable addition to my daily life. 🔗Portable Stun Gun Flashlight with Wrist Strap and Charging Cablehttps://preview.redd.it/9v9m5th5qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fcba9d0d066fb133d77136c01c8b3f5c79a865ae When I first got my hands on the Taser StrikeLight 2 Kit White, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design. It looked like a powerful tool meant for serious moments, but at the same time, it was surprisingly comfortable to carry around with me. The 700-lumen high beam setting was simply mind-blowing. I found myself reaching for it whenever I needed a good, bright light in a dark situation. The low beam and red mode were also incredibly useful, providing just the right amount of light for specific scenarios. I have to admit, I was more than a little intimidated by the thought of using this device as a stun gun. But, after putting it to the test, I was pleasantly surprised by how effective it was at close range. Its stun gun capabilities provided a sense of security and safety that I hadn't quite expected. But, nothing's perfect. Although the device itself is relatively light, I noticed that the charging cable seemed to be a bit of an afterthought. It was a little flimsy, and I had to be careful not to tear it by accident. Overall, the Taser StrikeLight 2 Kit White has been a reliable companion in my everyday life. It's saved me from a few nervous encounters, and the built-in stun gun capabilities give me a sense of security that I never knew I needed. While there are a few cons to consider, the pros outweigh them by far. 🔗Powerful Rose Gold Stun Gun by PS Productshttps://preview.redd.it/f9o052w5qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6adaa97a20bc0ab3bc26116bdc7f11bdbf3adf95 Recently, I had the chance to test out the PS Products Zap Edge, a sleek and stylish stun gun with a rose gold finish. This powerful device is capable of delivering a whopping 950,000 volts, making it an impressive choice for those seeking protection. One thing that caught my attention was the USB rechargeable feature, which makes it incredibly convenient and eco-friendly. The compact design also made it easy to carry around, ensuring I always had it on hand when needed. However, it's important to note that this product may be restricted in certain regions, so be sure to check before purchasing. Overall, the PS Products Zap Edge stun gun impressed me with its powerful build and user-friendly features. But remember, it's always crucial to use such devices responsibly and only as a last resort for personal safety. Buyer's Guidehttps://preview.redd.it/sprlxc67qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=34cb56b123fc71e0b751ec746397f8915718d435 None FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/jt65paj7qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cd1705402d17f03154aa7b7fff0c857a52857a80 Are flashlight stun guns legal to own and use?The legality of flashlight stun guns varies by location. Some states and countries allow the ownership and use of stun guns, while others prohibit them. It is essential to check your local laws and regulations before purchasing or using a flashlight stun gun. We recommend consulting a local law enforcement agency or attorney for specific legal advice.How do flashlight stun guns work?https://preview.redd.it/u75vniy7qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e5a54e67e30c712e3363d0d5ce0449f2337f6675 Flashlight stun guns work by emitting an electric shock when the user activates a button, triggering two metal prongs within the flashlight. When the prongs come into contact with the target, they deliver a powerful electric jolt, causing temporary muscle paralysis and disabling the individual briefly. The flashlight component is used to provide illumination and help locate the target in low-light situations. Are flashlight stun guns effective in self-defense?Flashlight stun guns can be effective in self-defense situations, as they can incapacitate an attacker and provide a temporary deterrent. However, their effectiveness may depend on factors such as the individual's physical condition, the strength of the stun gun, and the target's resistance or ability to withstand the shock. In any self-defense scenario, the best course of action is to avoid confrontation whenever possible. If necessary, use the stun gun as a last resort to protect oneself. https://preview.redd.it/122tmo98qh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8f089f3c2f8b71fd183a83077088b8e5f387d1a6 How long does it take for a flashlight stun gun to recharge?The recharge time for a flashlight stun gun varies depending on the specific model and the battery type. Generally, rechargeable flashlight stun guns require between 2-4 hours to fully recharge, while disposable battery-powered models cannot be recharged once the power source is depleted.What additional features do flashlight stun guns offer?
How should I maintain and care for my flashlight stun gun?To ensure the proper function and safety of your flashlight stun gun, follow these maintenance and care tips:
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2024.06.09 08:02 Stage-Piercing727 Best Flambeau Gun Cases
 | submitted by Stage-Piercing727 to u/Stage-Piercing727 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/80ebs6izkh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=66279040082547c6a1e4bc6960ddf39272bd7c91 Are you in search of the perfect gun case to safeguard your firearms? Look no further! In our comprehensive Flambeau Gun Cases roundup, we explore the top-rated options that offer unmatched protection, convenience, and durability. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a first-time shooter, this article will provide you with the necessary information to make an informed decision on choosing the best gun case for your needs. So, sit back, relax, and dive into the world of Flambeau Gun Cases with us! The Top 9 Best Flambeau Gun Caseshttps://preview.redd.it/p7w6zma0lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a44bb8a71a827629e7db02721a7e1933be07d062
Reviews🔗Tough Vault Takedown Rifle & Shotgun Case by Pelicanhttps://preview.redd.it/a5n1lbp0lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6962112969811c18ea0ab45c3ccd79aa58f0af68 I recently discovered the Pelican V700 Vault Takedown Rifle and Shotgun Case, and it's truly a game changer for transportation of your beloved firearms. As an avid hunter, I appreciate that this case provides a high level of security, offering crushproof, dustproof, and weather resistant protection. The sturdy handles ensure your rifles or shotguns can withstand even the toughest conditions on your hunting trips. One feature I particularly love is the presence of six push button latches that offer secure closure with easy-open access. This ensures your weapons are safe and secure while also making it convenient for you to access them when needed. The case also comes with specific foam designed to fit takedown firearms and related accessories, providing your gear with excellent protection during transportation. However, like any product, there are some cons as well. The case is quite bulky and heavy, making it less ideal for those looking for a lightweight solution. Additionally, cutting and shaping the foam to fit your specific equipment can be time-consuming. Overall, despite its drawbacks, I would highly recommend this gun case to anyone in need of a reliable and resilient transportation solution for their takedown firearms. 🔗Stylish Sleeper Chair for Modern Spaceshttps://preview.redd.it/prafq381lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=454a0a8eefff6312263437f6583f7a604b7c28f9 I recently acquired the Vaultek LifePod Rugged Airtight Weather-Resistant Storage, and it's been an incredibly useful addition to my daily routine. As a frequent traveler, I was in desperate need of a secure, portable safe, and the LifePod has more than lived up to my expectations. Its sleek design and compact size make it perfect for storing everything from my passport and wallet to my concealed carry gun. The LifePod's solid construction and high-quality materials provide excellent protection against bumps and impacts, while its touch-activated LED keypad makes locking and unlocking the safe a breeze. I also appreciate the added security of its built-in locking system, which prevents lock picking attempts and adds an extra layer of protection. One minor drawback is the LifePod's size, which may be too small for those looking to store larger items. However, I've found the compact dimensions to be an advantage when it comes to traveling light and discreetly. Additionally, the safe's lanyard tether ensures that it stays securely attached to a fixed object, further deterring potential thieves. Overall, I'm extremely happy with my Vaultek LifePod Rugged Airtight Weather-Resistant Storage. Its combination of portability, security, and ease of use make it the perfect companion for anyone who needs to keep their valuables safe while on the go. 🔗Stylish and Secure LifePod 2.0https://preview.redd.it/47rdefk1lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=25ba901e0782e1e8dbe65071e677fba336235235 I recently got my hands on the Vaultek Safe LifePod 2.0 in sleek black. As a travel enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for secure storage solutions that are easy to use and compact enough to carry around. This little safe has been a game-changer for me. The LifePod 2.0 is made from a proprietary blend of materials that offer excellent strength while keeping it lightweight. Its dual side compression latches ensure secure closure, and the interior rubber gasket seals off the contents from dust and water. It's capable of submerging in 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes without any damage, which impressed me. One of the highlights of using this product is its ample storage capacity. It can easily accommodate full-sized guns and their accessories, including holsters and extra mags. The removable interior tray is also a nice touch, allowing me to customize the layout according to my needs. However, there were a few minor hiccups during my experience. The touch-activated capacitive keypad sometimes requires more than one try to unlock the safe, which can be frustrating if you're in a hurry. Additionally, I found that the included padding wasn't enough to prevent my items from moving around inside the safe. Despite these minor drawbacks, I'm overall very happy with the Vaultek Safe LifePod 2.0. Its sturdy construction, water-resistant design, and the peace of mind it brings make it an excellent choice for anyone who needs secure on-the-go storage for their valuables. 🔗Ultimate Guitar Rifle Case for Discreet Transporthttps://preview.redd.it/m8xua2a2lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3f458ba566dca5d31c5ddfa04946d1d600064be3 I've been using the Savior Equipment Ultimate Guitar Rifle Case to keep my rifle safe and secure during transportation. This case has been a lifesaver, providing discreet protection that doesn't draw unwanted attention. One of the best features is the fully customizable foam inserts that let me configure the case to fit my specific gear perfectly. With three inserts included, I can easily switch between two different layouts depending on the trip. The high-impact polymer outer shell and enclosed wheels make it easy to transport my rifle without any hassle. The six lock-ready latches add an extra layer of security, giving me peace of mind when traveling with my firearm. The only downside I've noticed is the need to purchase locks separately, but overall, I couldn't be happier with my investment in this case. 🔗Hybrid EVA Pistol Case with Lockable Zipperhttps://preview.redd.it/i1zp63n2lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ee0a8d992c445bab5306053bfd84f689147b7ab5 I've been using the Plano Stealth Eva Pistol Case for about a month now, and I must say, it's been a game-changer in how I store and transport my 5" pistol. The case has a lightweight EVA construction which is both durable and easy to carry, making it perfect for those trips to the shooting range or when I'm traveling. The highlight of this case would definitely be the high-density, interlocking foam that secures my contents perfectly in place. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my valued possession is well protected. The lockable zipper pulls are another feature I love; they add an extra layer of security. However, one downside could be the size - it might not fit all types of pistols or additional accessories comfortably. But, for its purpose and design, the Plano Stealth Eva Pistol Case does its job exceptionally well. 🔗Evolution Outdoor 42" EVA Tactical Rifle Casehttps://preview.redd.it/uao31703lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8a8979d6ff5b907199d140c52701acafb6b648b3 I recently purchased the Evolution Outdoor 42" EVA Tactical Single Rifle Case for a safe and secure way to transport my rifle to and from the range. I must say, it has been a game-changer. The first thing that caught my eye was the matte-finish EVA shell, which not only looks sleek but also provides excellent durability. The impact-resistant, heavy-gauge foam padding ensures my rifle remains protected from bumps and scratches. One of my favorite features is the interior hook-and-loop tie straps that keep my rifle snugly in place. And with the soft debossed fleece lining, I can rest assured that my rifle's finish stays flawless. To store my accessories, I really appreciate the 2 interior zip pockets. The 2 paracord-tab zippers make it easy to open and close the main compartment, while the tubed carry handles provide a comfortable grip for transporting the case. Overall, I am incredibly satisfied with the quality and functionality of this rifle case. It's definitely worth the investment for any serious shooter. On the flip side, while the case provides excellent protection, it can be a bit bulky and cumbersome to carry for extended periods. Additionally, I wish there were more external compartments or pockets for storing shooting essentials. In conclusion, the Evolution Outdoor 42" EVA Tactical Single Rifle Case has been an excellent addition to my shooting gear. Its durable construction, impact-resistant foam padding, and secure interior features make it stand out among other rifle cases. However, its size and lack of external storage options may be a drawback for some users. 🔗Plano Rustrictor 36" All Weather Rifle Casehttps://preview.redd.it/jakmi5f3lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2fe83e0a9c5cac0eb8a9410fcf93a124501f7919 Imagine you're an avid hunter about to embark on a long-awaited trip. You have your rifle, ammo, and your Plano Rustrictor AW2 36 Rifle Case. This case has been your trusted companion during numerous adventures, protecting your precision tool from anything the great outdoors can throw at it. The moment I unboxed the Rustrictor AW2 36, I was immediately struck by its robust, hard exterior. The dual-stage lockable latches and Dri-Loc seal promised to keep my rifle dry and dust-free in all weather conditions. And they truly delivered! On one particularly grueling expedition, heavy rains poured down but my rifle remained perfectly dry within the case. What I especially appreciated was the pressure release valve that helped balance the air pressure during temperature or altitude changes. This feature ensures that there's no vacuum seal or bulging when I open the case, a problem I've faced with other brands. As for the Rustrictor technology, it's been a game-changer. The special treatment applied to the foam effectively wards off rust and corrosion, keeping my rifle in top condition, ready for any hunting scenario. There's one minor downside though. The removable foam isn't attached to the bottom part, which can be a bit cumbersome while trying to fit the rifle securely. However, this isn't a deal-breaker and the ease of adjusting the foam outweighs this small inconvenience. In conclusion, the Plano Rustrictor AW2 36 Rifle Case is an indispensable companion for any hunter. It provides robust protection against the elements, prevents rust, and fits perfectly in your car or truck. While the foam could use some improvement, overall, it's a reliable, high-quality case I wouldn't hesitate to recommend. 🔗Vaultek LifePod XR Portable Firearm Safehttps://preview.redd.it/ab2fcfw3lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5e9803634ff01f14d8bf14bd660045421bbe415e I've been using the Vaultek LifePod XR Special Edition for a few months now, and I must say, it's been a game-changer in how I store and protect my firearms. The first thing that caught my eye was its sleek design in Covert Black - it looks like something straight out of a spy movie! The advanced non-metal T3 polymer construction gives me peace of mind knowing that my belongings are secure. One feature that stands out is the integrated micro-USB port, which provides backup power in case the 9V alkaline battery (not included) dies. I've found this incredibly useful when I'm on long trips and need to ensure my gear is always accessible. However, the lack of a supplied battery did leave me feeling a bit disappointed initially. But overall, considering its sturdy construction and quick-access features, the Vaultek LifePod XR Special Edition has been an excellent addition to my firearm storage solution. 🔗Flambeau Black Protective Case for 20"L x 15"W x 5.5"Dhttps://preview.redd.it/3x3mof94lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7514953c1c9feae051417f10c2c4ee65538d4e7f As a proud hunter, I'm always on the lookout for ways to keep my gear organized and protected. That's why I decided to give the Flambeau 50470F Black Protective Case a shot. The polyethylene material felt sturdy and reliable, while the natural dust seal and interior impact barrier walls made me feel confident that my tools would be well taken care of. I was most blown away by how easy it was to slide my tools into their designated spots on the foam insert. The convoluted and flat foam design made organization a breeze. The only downside I experienced was that this case may not fit the standard airline carry-on size, which is something to keep in mind for those who travel frequently with their gear. All in all, I've had great experiences using the Flambeau Gun Case. It's kept my tools well protected and easy to access—definitely worth every penny! https://preview.redd.it/cn5nqgo4lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3d53041fed8bef88bec32f23ff35d4dcca9f5c36 Buyer's Guidehttps://preview.redd.it/pexc9005lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c309b6dfd22735d21c5ec535f65dcec4dff8aa24 None https://preview.redd.it/6jr184f6lh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=908cefb9a9546b31b9e88c362d3f0fc4cf110be3 FAQ
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2024.06.09 07:57 Count-Daring243 Best Flag Gun Safe
 | submitted by Count-Daring243 to u/Count-Daring243 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/ikj5f542kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4976eed723d817b88096302c17b675512325b10c Welcome to our comprehensive review on the Flag Gun Safe, a top-quality choice for gun owners who value elegance, function, and security. In this roundup, we'll explore the unique features that make this flag gun safe stand out from its competitors while also providing you with valuable information to help you make a well-informed decision. Sit back, relax, and get ready to discover why Flag Gun Safe is the perfect choice for your gun storage needs. The Top 12 Best Flag Gun Safe
Reviews🔗Secure Gun Safe with 28 Gun Capacity and 30-Minute Fire Protectionhttps://preview.redd.it/ev0gl5j2kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f119a6512e33894bb8f506e8618d275b0027a3ff I recently had the opportunity to try the Stealth EGS28 Essential Gun Safe Flag Safe and I must say, it's quite impressive. The safe has a 28 gun capacity, which means it can securely hold more than the usual amount of firearms. With its sturdy construction and 30-minute fire protection, this safe ensures not only the safety of your guns but also your valuables. The safe has an electronic lock with a million possible combinations and is protected by a hardplate and relocker. This added security feature is especially useful when you're concerned about a potential break-in. The fire protection is crucial, too. The intumescent door seal expands to keep smoke out during a fire, ensuring the contents are safe and secure. What really stands out is the convenience. The safe includes an electrical outlet kit with 3 outlets and 2 USB slots, which means you can charge your electronics inside the safe. The stealthy design, featuring a black 3-spoke handle and flat black finish, is a nice touch too, adding a covert and classy look to the safe. The installation process is straightforward. Stealth provides four bolt-down holes and mounting hardware in case you want to secure the safe to the floor. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially if you live in an area prone to burglaries. Overall, the Stealth EGS28 Essential Gun Safe Flag Safe is well-worth the investment for anyone looking to protect their firearms and valuables. It's sturdy, secure, and has an added level of convenience. The one downside is the size. You need to be sure you have the necessary space for this safe, but once you do, it's a fantastic choice. Highly recommended! 🔗Durable 23-Gun Storage Safe with American Flag Detailinghttps://preview.redd.it/oogqyuu2kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=64ba857b9d5c7f25aca04ad1f73d88f4fae52a16 Well, I've been using the Browning BF23E Gun Safe for some time now, and let me tell you, it's genuinely a game-changer. From the moment I installed it, I noticed the sturdiness and the robust feel of the 12-gauge steel body. Its Force Deflector Locking System gives me peace of mind knowing that my firearms are well-protected. One of the things that really stood out to me about this safe was how spacious it is inside. I was able to fit in all my long guns and even more smaller items on the standard DPX quick access barrel rack and shelving. Additionally, the sewn-in pistol pouches on the black carpet door panel are a nice touch for keeping my handguns organized. The Browning BF23E Gun Safe's exterior also deserves a mention. The Hammer Gray textured finish with black hardware gives it a really sleek look that blends perfectly with my home décor. However, there's one thing that I wished was a little different - the wiggly floor. Although it sits securely on the floor with the use of oversized body washers, it would have been great if the floor was a bit sturdier. It still serves its purpose, but a little more rigidity would elevate the whole experience. All in all, I'm extremely happy with my Browning BF23E Gun Safe. It provides excellent protection for my firearms and is stylish enough to not seem out of place in my home. If you're in the market for a trustworthy gun safe that can hold up to 23 long guns, this is definitely worth considering. 🔗Customizable Wall-Mount Pistol Safehttps://preview.redd.it/6zqm8bl3kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=65eab3c0ba4a3adb7b9d54f6f804f4f4daf7bdb9 I recently had the chance to try out the V-Line Tactical In-Wall Safe, and I must admit, it's quite a nifty little product. The build quality is top-notch – it's made in the USA and the door is 14-gauge steel, which is nice and sturdy. I particularly liked the powder-coated tactical black finish – it just adds a touch of class to the whole thing. One of the standout features of this safe is the three-point locking system with steel deadbolts that directly engage the vault frame. It's an added layer of security that I really appreciate. The wall-mounted design also allows for some clever use of the interior space. The Molle board possibilities offer a versatile solution for storing tactical gear, and the optional kits and shelves provide even more flexibility. However, the locking mechanism could use some improvement. It's a simplex push-button lock, which is fine, but the metal components look a bit flimsy. I'm not sure how secure it would feel compared to a sturdier combination lock. Another thing to note is that it didn't come with all the screws needed for installation. That might not be a deal-breaker for a lot of users, but it would definitely be worth mentioning. Despite a few minor drawbacks, I'm pretty happy with the V-Line Tactical In-Wall Safe. It's a solid product that offers a convenient and secure way to store your tactical gear. 🔗Patriot Flag Concealment Casehttps://preview.redd.it/g963lj04kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f294bf5642ba785c2de59e8db4dbefea5c0757c1 Salute to service - show your patriotism with the Patriot Flag Concealment Case. This beautifully crafted wooden case not only displays your military flag proudly, but also doubles as a discreet storage case for your handgun. The included VELCRO straps keep your flag secure, and the magnetically latched front panel with a key lock promises added security. One user's father served with the 90th Seabees during World War II, and they were thrilled with how the case showcased their patriotism. However, some customers found that the case was too small for a standard US burial flag, so please check dimensions to ensure compatibility. A few reviewers also reported minor assembly issues upon arrival, but overall, the build quality received praise. The Patriot Flag Concealment Case provides a stylish and functional way to both honor your country and conceal your valuables, making it a must-have addition to your home or office. 🔗MicroVault Portable Standard Gun Safe: Easy Access, Durable Protectionhttps://preview.redd.it/u2gmfyb4kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=28debea8ed7515b18db8d4d6f03f5162f0c4fdeb I've been using the GunVault Micro Vault Portable Standard Gun Safe (MV500F) for a while now, and I must say it's been quite a game-changer. The unique exterior design, featuring a flag motif, instantly adds a touch of style to my portable case. It's compact enough to fit inside my briefcase or backpack, yet spacious enough to securely hold my handgun and other valuable items. The high-strength lock mechanism reassures me that my belongings are safe from prying hands. The 20-gauge steel housing provides exceptional strength and durability, giving me peace of mind wherever I go. The soft foam interior also plays a crucial role in protecting my items from scratches and scuffs during transport. One feature that I absolutely adore is its patented No-Eyes Keypad, allowing me to access my gun safe with ease, even in low light conditions. This illuminated keypad with over 12 million user-selectable access codes truly sets it apart from traditional locks. Plus, the audio feedback and stealth mode option add an extra layer of security. The gun safe is also TSA airline rated, so transporting it on flight won't be a problem. The only issue I've encountered is that the lock sometimes has trouble recognizing the correct code, but it's a minor inconvenience compared to the benefits. Overall, the GunVault Micro Vault Portable Standard Gun Safe has significantly improved my experience of keeping my firearm secure and within reach at all times. It's a reliable tool that provides both convenience and protection. 🔗Large USA-Made Concealment Flag with Gun Compartmentshttps://preview.redd.it/syc330q4kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8eedeac1b8ac82fd13a6a00999222a0d5da92bb0 I recently had the chance to add a touch of patriotism to my home decor with the American Furniture Classics Large American Hybrid Flag Burnished with the We The People Logo Wall Hanging Gun Concealment. Not only is it a beautiful addition to my space, but it also offers a practical solution for those who need to conceal valuables. The standout features for me were the hidden safety style lock that opens with a magnetic key, and its easy installation on the wall with just conventional screws. The flag itself is built using top-quality locally sourced solid wood and wood veneers, creating a sturdy and durable piece that adds a touch of elegance to any room. However, I did notice a few areas where it could be improved. The hidden compartments could be a bit larger to accommodate more items, and the door could be a bit more quiet when opening and closing. Overall, I'm quite happy with my purchase and have found it to be a great blend of style and functionality. 🔗Large American Flag Wall Hanging Gun Concealment with Hidden Compartmentshttps://preview.redd.it/3fdgd715kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2f1305eec0c95f1bbb7103c1bbf5b2d5dc59aa68 I recently added the American Furniture Classics Large American Flag Wall Hanging Gun Concealment to my home decor, and let me tell you, it's a real beauty. This impressive piece boasts not only its patriotic design but also hidden safety style locks that open with a magnetic key. I was particularly impressed by the construction, crafted from top-quality solid wood and wood veneers sourced locally. However, its practicality is also noteworthy. The hidden compartments, lined with Kaizen closed cell foam, can easily be adjusted to fit various items, from handguns to knives. The magnetic safety locks and the gas strut on the lower door make it both user-friendly and reliable. Although it requires conventional screws for hanging on the wall, the process is simple, and it blends effortlessly with any interior. While I appreciate the craftsmanship and functionality of this wall hanging gun concealment, it would be great if it came with additional accessories or customization options. Apart from that, it's a solid addition to any home, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical security. 🔗Mini American Flag Wall Display - Concealed Safety Lock and Compact Designhttps://preview.redd.it/i0ebswd5kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d438db4e8ae05cad91a7cbf47703024d6f6c2bdc I recently got my hands on the American Furniture Classics Model MINIRWB Mini American Flag Wall Display with Hidden, Locking Gun Concealment, and I must say, it's a fantastic little piece of furniture. It's small, but packs a punch with its hidden safety lock that's opened by a magnetic key. This clever design makes it one of the most secure options in their lineup. The installation is a breeze; all you need are some conventional screws, and it hangs easily on the wall. Kudos to the team behind this product for using top-quality, locally sourced solid wood and wood veneers, which adds a touch of elegance to the piece. And the best part? It takes up very little wall space while providing ample storage for your handguns and accessories. However, the only downside I found was that the dimensions might be a bit tricky to work with if you don’t have enough space on your wall. But overall, it’s a fantastic American Flag Concealment Case that's well worth the investment. 🔗Tracker Safe 12 Gun Safe with Fire Resistant Protection and Mechanical Lockhttps://preview.redd.it/udz7act5kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a3dd513d39aab982e8442cc74d6194bf3b2d7213 I recently tried the Tracker Safe M12 Gun Safe and was impressed by its durability and practical features. The safe has a 13 long gun capacity, which is more than enough for my needs. One of the standout features is the internal door organizer and an internal outlet with plug ins and USB ports. This makes it easy to install and use safe accessories. The safe is also equipped with attack-resistant external hinges, which allows the door to open 200 degrees. The interior is gray carpet with adjustable shelving, providing ample space for my firearms. The gun safe is designed with a mechanical/dial lock and has a 60-minute fire rating at 1200 degrees, ensuring the safety of your firearms in case of a fire. However, I noticed that the interior shelving is not as customizable as I would have liked. Additionally, I discovered that some manufacturers exaggerate the number of guns a safe can hold, but overall, this safe was a great size and a great bang for the buck! 🔗Secure 30-Gun Home Safe with Glossy Burgundy Finishhttps://preview.redd.it/utara346kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e3bb2f37ae52e5dbf265fa682bc0ec795778d405 The Surelock Flag 30 Gun & Home Safe has been a lifesaver for me. It's not just about the 30 gun capacity, but its exterior dimensions of 36" W x 25" D x 59" H and the adjustability of its interior with two gun racks and four shelves make it perfect for my needs. The glossy burgundy exterior and tan interior with black trim give it an elegant look, and the upgraded interior organizational door panel keeps all my smaller items secure. However, it weighs an impressive 702 lbs, which might be a downside for those who want to move it around frequently. The SecuRam Basic Electronic Safe Lock and six active 1.25-inch steel bolts ensure maximum security, and the Lifetime Replacement Program gives me peace of mind. I highly recommend the Surelock Flag 30 Gun & Home Safe for anyone who values their firearms and other valuables. It may be heavy, but it provides reliable protection, and its adjustability and organizational storage options make it a versatile choice for safekeeping. 🔗Reliable Flag Gun Safe with 25 Gun Capacityhttps://preview.redd.it/f0clgre6kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=da216669edd3ec558812fd92166832874fafc358 As a proud gun owner and a dedicated defender of our nation's Second Amendment, I was thrilled to try out the Surelock SLS-FRE25 Flag 25 Gun Safe. It's securely crafted with 12-gauge steel and a 1-hour fire rating to ensure our valuables remain safe and protected during any unforeseen incidents. The adjustable interior is a game-changer, allowing for optimal storage of up to 25 long guns, with two adjustable gun racks and four removable shelves. It's not just about functionality, though, as the upgraded interior organizational door panel with padded pistol pockets adds a sense of elegance and refinement. The exterior design, featuring an American flag, is a proud testament to our love for our country, while the grey felt interior provides a touch of class with its sturdy and elegant appearance. The electronic lock in this gun safe ensures that only trusted individuals can access it - a feature that provides peace of mind. A standout feature of this gun safe is its Lifetime Replacement Program, backed by Surelock Security. This level of commitment to customer satisfaction is a testament to their confidence in the product, giving every user a sense of security that they're well protected. While this safe has many features worth applauding, its dimensions and weight might pose challenges for storage and mobility. However, the reassurance of maximum security it offers makes it a worthy investment for anyone serious about protecting their valued possessions. The True Flag Gun Safe has proven to be a reliable partner in my daily life, and a beacon of security for those important to me. 🔗Patriot 50 Flag Gun Safe with 75 min Fire Ratinghttps://preview.redd.it/iom94e17kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7ac043bed2b30f1fd42d9d3c46bfdae681de578f Using the Liberty Patriot 50 Gun Safe in my daily life has been a breeze. The spacious interior allows me to store all my firearms alongside valuable accessories. I particularly appreciate the extra height and top storage shelf, which provides ample space for my collection. The electronic lock works smoothly and is easy to operate. However, moving it was quite challenging due to its hefty weight. It's a well-built safe, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking to protect their belongings in style. Buyer's GuideWhen choosing a flag gun safe, it is essential to consider several factors to ensure you get the right product for your needs. This buyer's guide outlines some important aspects to consider when making a purchase. https://preview.redd.it/ch03qka7kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=685d50e094aaf7bb930fd6bda4a066a7f1fa2234 Factors to Consider
Safety ConsiderationsWhile choosing a flag gun safe, safety should be one of your top priorities. A safe that cannot protect your guns and related items from theft and unauthorized access is not a good investment. Consider locks, hinges, door styles, and other safety features when making your decision. https://preview.redd.it/i6a1jgv7kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1470f98562d8a576bea56fc9006f250adb5276a7 Maintenance TipsTo ensure your flag gun safe stays in good condition for an extended period, it is essential to maintain it correctly. Clean the exterior and interior regularly and inspect the lock and bolting mechanisms to ensure they work correctly. Keep the environment inside the safe clean and dry, especially if you store ammunition or other sensitive items.Choosing the right flag gun safe involves careful consideration of various factors, including safety, size, weight, construction quality, and additional features. Following the tips provided in this buyer's guide will help you make the best decision for your needs and ensure the safety and protection of your valuable flag guns and related items. FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/azsptib8kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4aa57ab568faa9316c879ede88b552e1b54c6027 What is Flag Gun Safe?Flag Gun Safe is a line of high-security gun safes designed with the flag emblem, offering a unique and stylish appearance while providing maximum protection for your firearms.What are the main features of Flag Gun Safe?
https://preview.redd.it/1uck1lt8kh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=dbb04f2083902c0f928ec058e6f2c736a5a83b97 How do the multiple locking mechanisms work?Flag Gun Safe uses a combination of mechanical and electronic locking systems. Mechanical locks include high-security tumblers and deadbolts, while electronic locks utilize a digital keypad or biometric scanner for added convenience and security.Does Flag Gun Safe offer customization options?Yes, Flag Gun Safe offers a variety of customization options, including different interior designs, racked or not racked storage, LED lighting, and shelving configurations. This ensures that the safe meets the specific needs of each user.Why should I choose a Flag Gun Safe?
Are Flag Gun Safes easy to install?Yes, Flag Gun Safes are designed with easy installation in mind. They come with all necessary hardware and clear installation instructions, making it simple for users to set them up in their homes or offices.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.06.09 07:43 ConsequenceSure3063 Best Fjallraven Tab Hat
 | submitted by ConsequenceSure3063 to u/ConsequenceSure3063 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/laicdblihh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=046c0fe91ee1942c9ee99a8176a8471ddaef011a Get ready to explore the world in style with the Fjallraven Tab Hat! This roundup article takes a closer look at the features, benefits, and customer reviews of this versatile and fashionable hat. Whether you're hiking, camping, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, this is the perfect accessory to keep you protected and comfortable. Join us as we delve into the world of Fjallraven Tab Hat and discover why it's a must-have for all your adventures. The Top 19 Best Fjallraven Tab Hat
Reviews🔗Fjallraven Abisko Lightweight, Quick-Drying Cap for Hikinghttps://preview.redd.it/nc5yvezihh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0d653b09f5f793c1feb4a3233c2958b30a8b9221 When I first tried on the Fjallraven Abisko Hike Lite Cap, I felt the perfect blend of lightweight and sturdy. The cap was designed for outdoor hiking and trekking, making it a perfect choice for my adventurous nature. The stretchy fabric made it comfortable to wear while the adjustable strap allowed for a snug fit. One of the standout features of this cap was its quick-drying ability. I found myself constantly sweating on hot summer hikes, and this cap easily absorbed the moisture and dried within minutes. The well-ventilated fabric kept my head cool and breathable, which was a big plus for me. The cap's lightweight nature also made it easy to pack and carry without adding too much weight to my backpack. I loved that I could easily store it in my pocket when I didn't need it. However, I did notice that the cap was not completely perfect. The logo on the front was a bit too small, making it less noticeable. Plus, the material was not as durable as I would have liked, with some fraying around the edge. Overall, the Fjallraven Abisko Hike Lite Cap was a great choice for my outdoor adventures. Its lightweight and quick-drying capabilities made it perfect for hot summer days, and the comfortable fit made it an enjoyable addition to my outdoor gear. Though it had its flaws, the pros definitely outweighed the cons. 🔗Fjallraven Organic Trucker Cap with Meshhttps://preview.redd.it/cw9xmpfjhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=137282a7bfcc9edad882f93be205e63941802d39 When I first tried on the Fjallraven Vardag Långtradarkeps trucker hat, I was immediately drawn to its comfortable fit and lightweight construction. Made from sustainable, organic materials and recycled polyester, this cap is perfect for both sunny hikes and everyday casual wear. The adjustable snapback feature allows for a customizable fit, and the mesh back provides excellent breathability during warmer activities. One of the key highlights of this trucker hat is its sturdy G-1000 fabric, which gives it a modern, structured appearance while still maintaining a low-profile look. The classic Fjällräven logo on the front adds a touch of style, making it a fashionable and functional accessory for outdoor enthusiasts. However, there are some downsides to this cap as well. I found that the sizing can be quite tricky for those with larger heads, as the size range only includes S/M and L/XL options. Unfortunately, the L/XL size didn't fit me as snugly as I would have liked, leaving me wishing for a more tailored fit. Additionally, the hat stains easily, which can be a drawback for those who want to maintain its appearance over time. Despite these minor issues, overall I am quite satisfied with the Fjallraven Vardag Långtradarkeps trucker hat. Its combination of sustainable materials, comfortable design, and stylish appearance make it a worthy investment for anyone looking for a versatile and eco-friendly hat for their outdoor adventures. 🔗Fjallraven Tab Hat with Recycled Polyester and Organic Cottonhttps://preview.redd.it/l9texvqjhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2cd1d85afe59b1e8698628ea3afd1224f51fece8 The Fjallraven Classic Badge Cap is a stylish addition to any outdoor lover's wardrobe. Made from the durable G-1000 Eco fabric, which is a blend of recycled polyester and organic cotton, this hat provides both comfort and style. The iconic fox logo adds a retro summer camp vibe, and the adjustable buckle ensures a perfect fit for all. However, those who prefer a full brim might find the flexibility a bit limiting. Nonetheless, this hat's hard-wearing nature and classic design make it a favorite among hikers and fashion enthusiasts alike. 🔗Fjallraven Urban Exchange Specialized Bucket Hathttps://preview.redd.it/5jns3r7khh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e36f5011ef7f1a7fa0918c1efdfaf053f5229f40 I recently came across the Specialized x Fjallraven Hat, a versatile piece that's perfect for my daily commute. The combination of 65% polyester and 35% cotton in this hat makes it lightweight and breathable, while the short, soft brim offers great protection against the sun without being too overwhelming. One of my favorite aspects of this hat is its adjustability, as it's fitted to my head perfectly, and it won't budge even on the bumpiest of bike rides. The hat's style, inspired by a classic bucket hat, gives it a fun and sporty look that is suitable for both casual and biking activities. Although I haven't had any issues with it so far, I noticed that its sweat-wicking mesh liner might not be the most effective – particularly in hot conditions or after a long ride. However, this has not stopped me from enjoying the comfy fit and casual feel of this Specialized x Fjallraven Hat. 🔗Fjallraven Tab Hat for Stylish Urban Cycling and Adventureshttps://preview.redd.it/1e3to2dkhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2db58e3d75eb2c3ba2c7505c643df0d88cbb5616 Sometimes, finding the perfect cap can be a challenge. However, after trying out the Specialized/Fjallraven Cap, I now know what it's like to have the ultimate urban riding and adventure companion. Its soft and packable G-1000 Lite Eco Stretch fabric makes it easy to store when I'm not riding. The 180-degree reflective stripes not only look cool, but they also provide extra visibility when I head out on a night ride. And the mesh sweatband keeps me comfortable while I push my limits. The co-branded logo on the front adds a touch of style. Overall, this cap has become a trusted friend for both my daily commute and weekend adventures. 🔗Fjallraven Expedition Latt Cap - Lightweight, Warm, and Windproofhttps://preview.redd.it/620helqkhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=92ce2333b32eea863e662edfa5fa9d947b8636d9 I recently tried out the Fjallraven Expedition Latt Cap and I must say, it's a game-changer for those chilly winter mornings. The cap is both warm and lightweight, making it perfect for my outdoor adventures. The lined earmuffs provide excellent wind protection, and I appreciate the option to fold them away when the temperature rises. The soft fleece lining is a nice touch, adding a cozy touch to this cap. However, there were a couple of minor drawbacks. The fit was a bit snug for my taste, and I wished there was an adjustable band so I could customize it to my preference. Additionally, I felt it was a bit too dark for my liking. Despite these minor issues, I'm thoroughly impressed with its performance and durability. Fjallraven's commitment to producing high-quality, environmentally friendly products is evident in this cap. It's definitely a worthy addition to my winter wardrobe. 🔗Fjallraven Singi Trekking Cap: Durable and Versatile Adventure Gearhttps://preview.redd.it/bx7ptt4lhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b136e474d8ba1f130444b5839cd9bb04f979c9f9 I recently tried out the Fjallraven Singi Trekking Cap in black, and let me tell you, it's a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts. Made of the robust G-1000 polyester cotton fabric, this cap perfectly balances protection from the sun and rain while also offering a comfortable fit. It's lightweight and versatile, making it perfect for any adventure, no matter the season. One of my favorite features is the adjustment at the rear, allowing for a custom fit without any hassle. The folded leather logo adds a touch of class to the cap, showcasing the brand's pride in its product. The G-1000 fabric is truly remarkable, with its combination of polyester and cotton giving it both durability and breathability, while also ensuring wind and water resistance. However, there are a couple of minor drawbacks worth mentioning. First, some users have mentioned sizing issues, so it's essential to measure your head carefully before making a purchase. Second, the cap may not be the best choice for individuals who need to wear their ponytail through the cap. Nonetheless, these issues do not detract from the overall quality and performance of this cap. In conclusion, if you're looking for a high-quality, stylish, and practical cap for your outdoor adventures, the Fjallraven Singi Trekking Cap is a fantastic choice. It may not be the cheapest option, but for the price, it's worth every penny. 🔗Durable Fjallraven Eco-Friendly Tab Hat for S/Mhttps://preview.redd.it/dfx6x5glhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ad9ef66747cf3dc14b263491f740930bb0806abb As a hat lover, I was excited to try the Fjallraven 1960 Logo Langtradarkeps Cap. The blue color really popped, and the G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco material gave it a premium feel. The adjustable closure on the back made it perfect for my head size, and the logo on the front added a bit of style. One feature that stood out was the material's eco-friendly nature, with 65% polyester and 35% organic cotton. The mesh on the sides and back made it breathable, allowing my head to stay cool and fresh even on hot days. However, I noticed some wear on the mesh after a few weeks of daily use. Although the adjustable closure made it comfortable and easy to wear, I did find the size range a bit limited. I would have liked to see some options in between the S/M and L/XL sizes. This is a minor complaint, as the cap itself still fit well and looked great. Overall, the Fjallraven 1960 Logo Langtradarkeps Cap was a comfortable, stylish, and eco-friendly option that I enjoyed wearing in my everyday life. Despite the limited size range and slight wear, I would still highly recommend this cap to others looking for a durable and fashionable option. 🔗Comfortable Waterproof Fjallraven Kiruna Sun Hathttps://preview.redd.it/92382qvlhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=49a4c54da5b99fa59ea7a088061e0f81b995f0f3 The Fjallraven Kiruna Hat in Laurel Green L is a stylish and functional everyday hat that offers excellent protection from the sun and rain. The hat is made from durable and water-resistant G-1000 original fabric, making it perfect for outdoor activities. One of the best features of this hat is its medium-wide, soft brim that provides all-round protection while still being foldable to fit in a pocket when not in use. The Fjallraven logo in leather adds a touch of elegance and durability to the hat. I've had the pleasure of using this hat in my daily life, and I must say, it's been a game-changer. The material is of high quality, and the fit is just right. I've had no issues with wind or rain, and the hat has held up well despite the occasional use. While the hat is generally well designed and comfortable, I did notice that it runs a bit loose for some users. I would recommend getting the size that is most suitable for your head to ensure the best fit. Additionally, the hat is a bit on the pricey side, but I believe the quality and functionality make it worth the investment. Overall, I highly recommend the Fjallraven Kiruna Hat in Laurel Green L to anyone looking for a durable and stylish hat for their outdoor adventures. 🔗Fjallraven Ovik Knit Hat: Ethically Sourced Wool Tab with Ribbed Edge and Leather Logohttps://preview.redd.it/pxh2eobmhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=36eec4eacd935f72798cc43eccdc4ddb3a8b83bb I recently added the Ovik Knit Hat Navy to my daily rotation, and I must say, the experience has been quite pleasant. The hat's design is inspired by Fjällräven's popular Övik Knit Sweater, which really caught my eye - the patterned knitting adds a touch of personality to any outfit. One of the key features that stood out to me is the high-quality wool used in this hat. It's not only cozy but also ethically and responsibly sourced, which is a big bonus. This winter-ready hat has a ribbed edge and a small leather logo on the side, adding an extra touch of style. The fit of the hat is a bit snug, but I've come to understand that this is by design to provide better insulation. It may take a little getting used to, but once you do, you'll appreciate the warmth it provides. The hat's one-size-fits-all concept may not be perfect for everyone, so it's essential to consider your head size before purchasing. Overall, the Ovik Knit Hat Navy is a stylish and warm addition to any winter wardrobe. The Fjällräven brand delivers another quality product, and I'm happy to have it in my collection. Just be prepared for a snug fit and keep in mind that it's not a traditional skull-cap fit. Other than that, it's a great pick for those chilly days. 🔗Insulated Wool Hat for Cold Dayshttps://preview.redd.it/qz9s1fnmhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=04d23be48aefcf56a16fb8874473b6821f8988ec I've fallen in love with the Fjallraven Tab Hat during my camping trips and hikes this winter. Folded over at the bottom, this hat allows for cozy warmth on colder days. The classic ribbed style adds to the comfortable feel and the Arctic Fox logo on a leather patch adds a touch of style. The one-size-fits-all hat in Alpine Blue is both versatile and practical, keeping the chill off and fitting perfectly. However, be cautious of accidentally shrinking the hat by putting it in the dryer, as it may become unwearable. 🔗Fjällräven Foldable Wool Beanie - 1960 Logohttps://preview.redd.it/lokqvezmhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9cdb1c6677374a7ac015bc1d3db846122ababff1 Last winter, I found myself in need of a warm, durable beanie for my daily commute. I spotted the Fjallraven 1960 Logo Hat and decided to give it a go. The first thing I noticed about this beanie was its timeless design and elegant chalk white color. It was a stylish addition to my winter outfits, perfect for both men and women. What stood out to me was the high-quality, ethically produced wool used in making this beanie. Not only did it provide delightful warmth, but it also felt sustainable and traceable. The foldable edge offered extra protection, while the double-layered knitted construction provided even more insulation. The iconic Fjallraven emblem on the front added a touch of class. However, there were a couple of drawbacks to this beanie. Firstly, the tag seemed to be a bit tricky to remove, and I had to cut it off using a seam ripper. While it might seem silly, it was frustrating, especially considering the brand's reputation for quality. Secondly, one reviewer mentioned that the hat was a bit thicker and bulkier than expected, which might not be ideal for some people. Overall, my experience with the Fjallraven 1960 Logo Hat was mostly positive. It offered comfort, style, and warmth, making it a great addition to my winter wardrobe. 🔗Fjallraven Singi Field Cap: Ear Flap Tour Hat with Fleece Lining (Black)https://preview.redd.it/r5aotvgnhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3e324e636dcd27e88be0290d55f9a26a9a93bc92 My experience with this Fjallraven Singi Field Cap was truly a delight. The polyester and cotton blend give this cap a soft and warm feeling, perfect for those chilly winter days. The ventilating properties of the water-resistant G-1000 fabric helped to keep my head dry from sweat, while the fleece lining made sure I was comfortably warm. One of the most noteworthy features of this cap was the inbuilt wire that allowed me to shape the brim. This not only made it sturdier but also made it easy to stow away in my pocket when I wasn't wearing it. The ear flaps were a great addition, especially in windy conditions, and the elastic closure on the back ensured the cap stayed firmly on my head. The black color gave the cap a sleek look and paired perfectly with my outdoor camping gear. Overall, it was an excellent cap that I have continued to use whenever I'm out there enjoying the beautiful outdoors. 🔗Eco-Friendly Fjallraven G-1000 Tab Hat with Embroidered Badgehttps://preview.redd.it/vnn4qrnnhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c4677478d3cdade657d979d0866634f360b89607 Recently, I had the chance to sport the Fjallraven Badge Langtradarkeps Cap. It's like bringing a cool, comfortable companion along for any adventure. This cap, standing out in my collection, is perfect for those balmy days and chilly nights alike. The Fjallraven brand, known for producing eco-friendly, durable goods, has outdone itself with this cap. This cap is all about the balance; it's got this classic, cool vibe with a high-rise front, and yet it's got this mesh back that keeps air circulating. I'm a fan of the embroidered badge design in an eco-poly blend - it's both functional and stylish. As for sizing, it's just right, offering a snug fit thanks to the adjustable snap closure at the back. The cap sits neatly on my head, avoiding any slips. However, one drawback is that it might be a bit too large for some users, so sizing down could be a good option. Overall, it's a hat I wouldn't leave home without. Even when it was put through some rought handling, it held its shape nicely. Not forgetting the compliments it garners, it always turns heads in a good way. From the brand known for quality, this Fjallraven Badge Langtradarkeps Cap is a winner in my books. Yet its not without the potential small issues. But for me, it's a hat with more pros than cons, making every stroll more comfortable and trendy. Buyer's GuideFjallraven Tab Hats are a popular outdoor accessory designed to provide comfort and protection during your adventures. These hats are known for their high-quality materials, durability, and stylish design. In this buyer's guide, we will discuss the essential features, considerations, and advice to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a Fjallraven Tab Hat.Materials and Durabilityhttps://preview.redd.it/ggzrataphh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=773b16d1b9123c978369c003b59b706c7672dfa3 Fjallraven Tab Hats are made from high-quality materials that ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear. The most common materials used are G-1000 (polyester) and G-1000 Eco (organic polyester). G-1000 hats have a waxed finish, which makes them water-resistant and easy to care for. G-1000 Eco hats, on the other hand, have a more environmentally friendly finish. It is essential to consider the material you prefer when purchasing a Fjallraven Tab Hat. Size and FitFjallraven Tab Hats come in various sizes to ensure a proper fit for different head shapes and sizes. Measure your head circumference (just above your eyebrows) to determine the right size for you. Most Tab Hats are adjustable, allowing you to tighten or loosen the hat to achieve the perfect fit. Be sure to check the product specifications or size chart provided by the manufacturer to find the best fit for you.Design FeaturesFjallraven Tab Hats have several design features that make them functional and stylish. These hats often have drawstrings or other adjustable features to ensure a snug fit and protection from the elements. Some hats also feature a brim that can be folded down to provide additional sun protection or a casual look. https://preview.redd.it/z8shutsphh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d2261110c1f7a81c0328cb9658d93d69ab7884df Functionality in Different Weather ConditionsFjallraven Tab Hats are versatile and can be used in various weather conditions. The water-resistant G-1000 material helps keep your head dry during rainfall or moisture buildup. However, these hats are not designed to protect against extreme cold or heavy snowfall. Consider the climate you will be using the hat in and choose the appropriate materials and design for your needs.Care and MaintenanceTo ensure the longevity of your Fjallraven Tab Hat, proper care and maintenance are essential. The G-1000 material should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Waterproofing the hat with a suitable wax or treatment may be necessary to maintain its water-resistant properties. Follow the manufacturer's care instructions to extend the life of your Fjallraven Tab Hat.Fjallraven Tab Hats are a popular outdoor accessory that can provide comfort, protection, and style during your adventures. When purchasing a Fjallraven Tab Hat, consider the materials, size, design features, and the specific weather conditions you will be using the hat in. Proper care and maintenance will ensure your hat remains functional and stylish for years to come. FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/n9nay88qhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0eb5984bdfb3809d301019c3c517e8e4e84e60a5 What is the Fjallraven Tab Hat made of?The Fjallraven Tab Hat is made of 100% polyester, which is lightweight, breathable, and fast-drying.Is the Fjallraven Tab Hat suitable for outdoor activities?Yes, the Tab Hat is perfect for outdoor activities as it offers excellent protection from the sun, wind, and rain. It has a UPF 50+ rating, providing high UV protection and is water-repellent. https://preview.redd.it/4p5v7bsqhh5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ce6bf6e7ad62e86c44253c67e378b21ddfdf330b What are the available sizes for the Fjallraven Tab Hat?The Fjallraven Tab Hat is available in sizes S, M, L, XL, and XXL, catering to a wide range of head sizes and shapes.Is the Fjallraven Tab Hat adjustable?Yes, the Tab Hat has an adjustable drawcord at the back, allowing you to customize the fit according to your comfort.How does the Fjallraven Tab Hat stay in place during activities?The Tab Hat features a grippy band that helps it stay in place even during intense physical activities like running, hiking, or biking.Does the Fjallraven Tab Hat come in any colors?Yes, the Tab Hat comes in various colors, including Black, Navy, Cream, and Charcoal. Choose the one that best suits your style and outdoor adventures.Are there any additional features on the Fjallraven Tab Hat?Yes, the Tab Hat has an adjustable chinstrap that ensures a secure fit, even in windy conditions. It also features a small zippered pocket for storage of small items like a key or a lip balm.Is the Fjallraven Tab Hat eco-friendly?Yes, Fjallraven is committed to sustainability, and the Tab Hat is no exception. It is made from recycled materials and can be recycled once it reaches the end of its life.What is the price range for the Fjallraven Tab Hat?The Fjallraven Tab Hat is priced reasonably and can be found within the $35 to $50 range, depending on the color and size.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.06.09 07:12 Bluefortress I made another one, this time with more lore.
Yet another rogue concept: S.E.D-1
S.E.D-1 defendesupport
Ability: protocol 3
Lose 75 armor to give to teammates. 50 armor given to teammates. No cooldown because this can kill S.E.D-1. Glitch can stop it, but he doesn’t remove the armor from anyone.
Passive: Mechanical heart
Health is replaced by armor. Armor can be repaired like headstrong, except it’s 25 over 2 seconds. So like natural regen but S.E.D-1 has to do it itself.
Guns:
New LMG: SOM-4: 100 round LMG, has a fire rate slightly higher than the Conviction. 16 damage. Can never be fully accurate. Upgrade 1: faster sprint to aim speed. Upgrade 2: range increase. Upgrade 3: increased speed to top accuracy.
AR: Hydra
Pistol: executioner
Melee: special like scorch 65 damage immediately, has to be fully upgraded to not cause damage to self when used. Damage to self: 15 Upgrade 1: lunge speed increased. Upgrade 2: no self damage
Upgrade 3: get armor for hitting opponents. 5 armor.
Gadgets:
regen field
Tripmines
Perks:
Legendary:
Tenacity
Bulletproof
Epic:
Energized
Nimble hands
Lifeline
Rare:
Berserker. My reasoning for not having quick hands is mainly the fact these are literal upgrades to S.E.D-1 not just odd perks the rogues get.
Stalker
Gadgeteer
Signature perks:
M.Log.1 Bl@&:)63
M.Log.2 a door opens and engineers from the old company are seen
M.Log.7 the head and torso of SED.1-9 are seen being tested for correct function
M.Log.8 legs are seen on some of the SEDs and some have wires coming out of where the head used to be
M.Log.10 all SEDs have all limbs and are ready to be powered on.
M.Log.11-13 oddly missing
M.Log.14 only 5 SEDs are functional. The rest are powered down or noticably melted
M.Log.15 Engineers from both the rogues?and jackal? are seen working. No old company logos are visible any more.
M.Log.16-20 destroyed.
M.Log.21 only S.E.D-1 remains. the rest are gone not even wires remain.
M.Log.22-89 no changes
M.Log.90 The door breaks. A tree trunk is seen.
M.Log.91 POWER ONLINE Directive: find replacement battery. No battery found. Replacement found elsewhere.
Battery found.
M.log.92 Directive: find Administrator The outside of the underground workshop is seen. A broken tree is seen to the side of the door. Heavy footfalls are heard. Recording cuts in odd places.
M.log.93-103 Skyfell, favelas, district, and then High Castle Omega are seen
M.log.104 combat protocol initiated A fight between the rogues and Jackal is seen at high castle omega with S.E.D-1 helping the rogues and jackal alike while error messages keep popping up on who is allies and who is enemies. Anvil, Kestrel, and Umbra all look alarmed at S.E.D-1’s appearance.
M.log.105 Juke is seen fixing and repairing S.E.D-1. Anvil is heard: “Kestrel, weren’t there none left?” Kestrel: “only broken ones were left. I saw that myself.” Anvil: “evidently not. how did it power on again…”
M.log.106 Administrator found Name: Anvil.
Co-Admin: Juke.
End of Memory logs.
I was playing Xdefiant and it reminded me of the good old days of Warface and my go to have fun class the SED. So I make this.
submitted by Bluefortress to RogueCompany [link] [comments]
S.E.D-1 defendesupport
Ability: protocol 3
Lose 75 armor to give to teammates. 50 armor given to teammates. No cooldown because this can kill S.E.D-1. Glitch can stop it, but he doesn’t remove the armor from anyone.
Passive: Mechanical heart
Health is replaced by armor. Armor can be repaired like headstrong, except it’s 25 over 2 seconds. So like natural regen but S.E.D-1 has to do it itself.
Guns:
New LMG: SOM-4: 100 round LMG, has a fire rate slightly higher than the Conviction. 16 damage. Can never be fully accurate. Upgrade 1: faster sprint to aim speed. Upgrade 2: range increase. Upgrade 3: increased speed to top accuracy.
AR: Hydra
Pistol: executioner
Melee: special like scorch 65 damage immediately, has to be fully upgraded to not cause damage to self when used. Damage to self: 15 Upgrade 1: lunge speed increased. Upgrade 2: no self damage
Upgrade 3: get armor for hitting opponents. 5 armor.
Gadgets:
regen field
Tripmines
Perks:
Legendary:
Tenacity
Bulletproof
Epic:
Energized
Nimble hands
Lifeline
Rare:
Berserker. My reasoning for not having quick hands is mainly the fact these are literal upgrades to S.E.D-1 not just odd perks the rogues get.
Stalker
Gadgeteer
Signature perks:
M.Log.1 Bl@&:)63
M.Log.2 a door opens and engineers from the old company are seen
M.Log.7 the head and torso of SED.1-9 are seen being tested for correct function
M.Log.8 legs are seen on some of the SEDs and some have wires coming out of where the head used to be
M.Log.10 all SEDs have all limbs and are ready to be powered on.
M.Log.11-13 oddly missing
M.Log.14 only 5 SEDs are functional. The rest are powered down or noticably melted
M.Log.15 Engineers from both the rogues?and jackal? are seen working. No old company logos are visible any more.
M.Log.16-20 destroyed.
M.Log.21 only S.E.D-1 remains. the rest are gone not even wires remain.
M.Log.22-89 no changes
M.Log.90 The door breaks. A tree trunk is seen.
M.Log.91 POWER ONLINE Directive: find replacement battery. No battery found. Replacement found elsewhere.
Battery found.
M.log.92 Directive: find Administrator The outside of the underground workshop is seen. A broken tree is seen to the side of the door. Heavy footfalls are heard. Recording cuts in odd places.
M.log.93-103 Skyfell, favelas, district, and then High Castle Omega are seen
M.log.104 combat protocol initiated A fight between the rogues and Jackal is seen at high castle omega with S.E.D-1 helping the rogues and jackal alike while error messages keep popping up on who is allies and who is enemies. Anvil, Kestrel, and Umbra all look alarmed at S.E.D-1’s appearance.
M.log.105 Juke is seen fixing and repairing S.E.D-1. Anvil is heard: “Kestrel, weren’t there none left?” Kestrel: “only broken ones were left. I saw that myself.” Anvil: “evidently not. how did it power on again…”
M.log.106 Administrator found Name: Anvil.
Co-Admin: Juke.
End of Memory logs.
I was playing Xdefiant and it reminded me of the good old days of Warface and my go to have fun class the SED. So I make this.
2024.06.09 05:37 Stage-Piercing727 Best Firefield Laser
 | submitted by Stage-Piercing727 to u/Stage-Piercing727 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/w81m6xo5vg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=29a9235d72a3b80290873b8c12a52685ddfa9862 Are you in the market for a laser that meets your needs both on and off the range? Look no further than our roundup of the top-rated Firefield Lasers! In this article, we'll be diving into the world of Firefield lasers, exploring their features, benefits, and capabilities. From target acquisition to hunting and self-defense, we've got you covered. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, our comprehensive review will help you find the perfect Firefield Laser to suit your specific needs. The Top 11 Best Firefield Laser
Reviews🔗Accurate Green Multi-Line Laser with Wall Mount for Indoor Levelinghttps://preview.redd.it/aqkcxrm6vg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ea6db31fb87929408e8d4ba82b83449459aa6b03 I recently tried out the Hilti 3586412 PM 40-MG Multi-Line Green Laser for various indoor leveling tasks and I must say it performed exceptionally well. This multi-line laser not only sets the level bar for drywall, electrical, and mechanical applications but also ensures accuracy with its self-leveling range at room temperature. What stood out to me was the laser class 2, which means no special precautionary measures are needed. It also comes with out-of-level and low battery alerts that help prevent mistakes and unexpected downtime. The laser is incredibly versatile, with five lines available, including 4 vertical and a 360-degree horizontal line, as well as a bottom plumbing point. One of my favorite features is the wall mount, which increases performance in difficult-to-reach locations. Along with the lithium-ion batteries and charger, this kit provides a convenient and hassle-free experience for any indoor leveling project. With a 10-hour run time on a single charge, the Hilti 3586412 PM 40-MG Multi-Line Green Laser has become my go-to tool for precision leveling. 🔗Unity ELITE 20 PRO FB4 Full-Color RGB Diode Laser Systemhttps://preview.redd.it/yc4a29y6vg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0a96444f84c69ea066e1de67b47bd5df7dec14b5 When I first set eyes on the Firefield Laser Unity Elite 20 Pro FB4, I was in awe of its sleek, robust design. Its integrated Pangolin FB4 media server adds a modern twist to this full-color RGB laser system, and the 20-Watt semiconductor diode laser really packs a punch with a guaranteed optical output of 22,000mW. Despite its size, the Unity Elite 20 Pro FB4 is impressively lightweight, making it a convenient choice for on-the-go events and presentations. However, the IP 20 ingress rating may not be ideal for outdoor use or in environments with dust and debris. In terms of performance, this 20-Watt laser shines with a scan angle of 45° and can achieve an amazing 30,000 points per second scanning system. The 6 x 6mm beam size ensures crisp, vibrant projections, perfect for capturing audiences' attention. While the product specifications are impressive, the lack of reviews to read from other users and a rating is concerning. Nonetheless, the Firefield Unity Elite 20 Pro FB4 appears to be a powerful and appealing laser system, a worthy choice for professionals seeking a versatile, impactful presentation option. 🔗Hilti PR 30-HVS Laser Level with PRA Receiver and Accessorieshttps://preview.redd.it/xgue25c7vg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=45770ffbb270e9ea5601f383f2b056028bdb057f I recently had the chance to try out the Hilti PR 30-HVS Outdoor Rotating Red Laser, and I must say it has made my life much easier on the job site. This laser level is incredibly accurate, delivering a plus/minus 0.02-inch precision at a 33-foot range, making it perfect for aligning columns, grading, and pouring concrete. One of the most impressive features is its water and dust resistance. Whether it's pouring rain or a dusty construction site, this laser has you covered. The Pra 83 receiver is a game-changer, allowing me to transfer building lines with ease. Not only is the Hilti PR 30-HVS laser level drop-resistant up to a height of 5 feet and 360-degree free fall resistance, but its shock-absorbing handles make sure it always lands safely on a tripod. The one-person alignment system is another added bonus, making sure the job is done right without the need for assistance. While this laser level does not come with batteries, it's worth the small investment to get this powerful tool. Whether you're a seasoned contractor or a DIY enthusiast, the Hilti PR 30-HVS Outdoor Rotating Red Laser is a must-have addition to your small grading and excavating equipment. 🔗High-Power, Full-Color Laser System by Unity ELITE 30 PRO FB4https://preview.redd.it/pa5zebl7vg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=aa9cd31635086ff21edfa0824749db8d0df0a6b6 Recently, I had the opportunity to use the Unity ELITE 30 PRO FB4 laser system in my daily life, and let me tell you, it was quite an experience! This 30-watt full color RGB diode-based laser system is paired with Pangolin's FB4 media server, housed in a sturdy casing. One of the highlights of this device was the impressive optical output, which was guaranteed to be at least 33,000mW. While setting it up, I appreciated the user-friendly interface that made operation a breeze. However, I did encounter a few minor hiccups during the installation process, which made me realize that the product could benefit from a more detailed manual or tutorial video. In terms of performance, the Unity ELITE 30 PRO FB4 truly shines. The laser's scan angle of 45 degrees ensured that the projection was accurate and vivid, with the 30,000 points per second scanning system contributing to its smooth motion. The device's power requirements were also a plus, as it could operate effectively with a range of voltage inputs, from 100-240V/50-60Hz. Overall, while this laser system had some minor drawbacks, its impressive optical output and versatile scanning capabilities made it well worth the investment for any professional looking to up their projection game. 🔗Advanced Self-Rotating Green Laser Level for Precision Finishing Jobshttps://preview.redd.it/icf9yiz7vg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b554fe6b4cdfaa485c6e35f3eedafbcc894da091 The Hilti PR-30-HVSG A12 isn't just a basic laser level – it's a powerful and reliable tool specifically designed for long-range interior finishing applications. I found it robust and sturdy, which is perfect for handling the most challenging jobsite environments. One of the features that stood out for me was the 360° outlast unique Hilti-patented design, providing top-notch performance in even the trickiest conditions. Although the high-vis green laser can be a bit challenging indoors, it excels outdoors with an impressive 33 ft. of accuracy. I also appreciated the convenience of its max operating distance of 984 ft. with a laser receiver. But what truly impressed me was the PR-30-HVSG A12's impressive battery life of 16 hours on a single charge with the Li-ion battery it comes with. Overall, it's an excellent tool for anyone in need of a reliable, high-performance laser level. 🔗Milwaukee M12 Green Laser Level: Versatile, Tether-Ready, Magnetic Tool for Precise Measurements Indoorshttps://preview.redd.it/90n2exd8vg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=b5f0fa2a444c4ebb22608629505f08df12e4f51a Last weekend, I was tasked with setting up drop ceiling elevations in a warehouse, and I couldn't have done it without the Milwaukee M12 Green 360° Single Plane Laser. As someone who's worked with laser levels before, I can confidently say that this one is a game-changer. First off, the brightest green laser was a dream to work with, making it easier than ever to set my elevations accurately. The 30+ hours of runtime from my M12 REDLITHIUM 4.0 XC Battery had me working all day without needing to worry about battery life. The 360° horizontal plane made quick work of my warehouse, even in large spaces. I also appreciated the tether-ready lanyard hole, which eliminated any drops and kept my laser level right where I needed it. The integrated bracket with powerful amplified rare earth magnets ensured a strong and secure hold on steel surfaces. Setting up was a breeze with the integrated hang hole, which made the Milwaukee M12 perfect for use in any environment. The MILWAUKEE 165' Laser Line Detector was just as impressive, helping me align my ceiling grid with precision both indoors and outdoors. With high visibility LEDs on front and back, it made the process a cinch. The rare earth magnets on the detector were my favorite part, allowing easy attachment to metal surfaces. Overall, the Milwaukee M12 Green 360° Single Plane Laser was a fantastic tool for my warehouse project. Its compatibility with all M12 Batteries and impressive runtime made for a smooth and productive experience. The only downside? I wished it came with a battery of my own, but hey, that's a minor inconvenience. 🔗Hilti Multi-Line Laser Kit with Green Laser Lineshttps://preview.redd.it/s3wxuht8vg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f0d574767b89d0ad1275d999e4b3dd2bf6b491b0 I recently had the opportunity to try out the Hilti PM 30 Multi-line Laser Kit, and let me tell you, it has proven to be quite the handy tool in my daily life. This laser is capable of leveling, aligning, and squaring with ease, making it an essential gadget for all sorts of plumbing and home improvement projects. One of the standout features of this Hilti laser is its self-leveling capabilities. It was incredibly easy to use, as it kept everything in line with just a small adjustment here and there. I particularly appreciated this, especially when I was working on setting out drywall tracks on various surfaces. It also helped save time by allowing me to focus on other areas of the project without constantly checking my levels. On the other hand, there were a couple of downsides to this laser. Firstly, the kit doesn't come with a case, which would have been a great addition, considering I had to keep the different components in separate places to prevent them from getting damaged. Secondly, the out-of-level and low battery alerts, while helpful, could sometimes be a bit too sensitive, leading to false alarms. Overall, the Hilti PM 30 Multi-line Laser Kit is a practical and efficient tool for those working on plumbing and home improvement. It's perfect for those looking for a versatile, reliable, and efficient laser that can make their work easier and more precise. 🔗Firefield Laser Flare: Waterproof, Long-Lasting, 30-Mile Visibility Emergency Signalhttps://preview.redd.it/0f2ft479vg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=07f2bdb7d49815bda3ca30bf99ff45324ce82ea6 As an avid hiker, I've faced my fair share of emergencies while out in the wilderness. The Greatland GREEN Rescue Laser Flare has become my trusted companion during these times. When disaster strikes, this laser flare has the ability to signal for help from up to 30 miles away at night, ensuring my safety even in the darkest conditions. Its waterproof design allows me to use it even in harsh weather, while its long-life lithium battery means I don't have to worry about constant recharging. The laser's green color is bright and visible, making it the preferred choice among search and rescue professionals. 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Buyer's GuideWelcome to our comprehensive guide to Firefield Laser Buyer's Guide, which is designed to help you make an informed purchase decision. In this section, we'll outline some important features, considerations, and general advice to consider when buying a Firefield Laser. Our guide will not contain any specific product recommendations or external resource links, ensuring that the content remains focused on the product category.Understanding Firefield LasersFirefield Lasers are specifically designed for military, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts. These lasers provide a high degree of precision and accuracy during shooting or aiming exercises. Understanding the key features of these lasers will help you make the best purchasing decision. https://preview.redd.it/dg0hbpsavg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f888c7c32280c3ba6fa55db3c1f23fc07bbbbd7a Important Features of Firefield Lasers
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FAQWhat is the Firefield Laser product range?The Firefield Laser product range includes laser sights, such as the Firefield Laser H1, and laser accessories, like the Firefield Laser Grip Sight. https://preview.redd.it/knqramkbvg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=67436bc2a55b3dfc92cd440c16096bdcb9b1c374 Are the products compatible with various firearm types?Yes, the Firefield Laser products are compatible with a variety of firearms, including handguns and rifles.How durable are the products from the Firefield Laser range?Firefield Laser products are built for durability, using high-quality materials and construction. They are designed to withstand rough handling and harsh outdoor conditions.Do the products offer different laser sight options?Yes, the Firefield Laser range offers laser sights in various color options, such as red or green. This allows users to choose the one that best suits their preferences and lighting conditions. https://preview.redd.it/w42rp91cvg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d9443c663f54a50e690ccc7b7d8311e1e9d14f08 Are the Firefield Laser products easy to install?Yes, Firefield Laser products typically come with user-friendly installation guides, making it easy for users to install them on their firearms. In most cases, installation can be done in a matter of minutes.Are there different warranty options for Firefield Laser products?Yes, Firefield Laser offers various warranty options depending on the product. Please refer to the specific warranty information for each product for details.Is it easy to find replacement parts or accessories for Firefield Laser products?Yes, replacement parts and accessories for Firefield Laser products are readily available, ensuring that users can easily obtain them when needed.Do the laser sights have adjustable brightness levels?Yes, most Firefield Laser products offer adjustable brightness levels, allowing users to customize the intensity of the laser sight according to their preferences and lighting conditions.Can the Firefield Laser products be used by both amateurs and professionals?Yes, Firefield Laser products cater to a wide range of users, from beginners to experienced shooters. They offer features suitable for both amateurs and professionals, making them versatile and accessible to all.What is the return policy for Firefield Laser products?Please refer to the specific return policy information for each Firefield Laser product for details.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |
2024.06.09 05:18 JulianSkies Blackriver Cases - Season 10 “Days of Fury” - Episode 4 “Aftermath of Lesser Chances”
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Talek had done more than just follow on mama Heren’s pawsteps, medical college on Colia was just the start. He served in the First Response Fleet, he saw the worst the galaxy had to offer, he saw more than one world meet its end, he had to operate in conditions even the yotul would break out the word ‘primitive’ for. He thought he would have gotten away from the battlefield finding work on Skalga. Solgalick’s Mercy was proving him wrong.
“Move, move, move” he jumps on the wall to dodge a moving stretcher, scrambling on all fours on it for a few steps before jumping out of it and continuing his sprint towards the admission area.
The admission area was usually an ordered thing, patients would come in and quickly and efficiently be directed to where they needed to go. It was still as ordered as it could be, which wasn’t much. Talek did not have time to look at the patients, he had been directly called for a reason- The screeching deafening everyone was the reason, a tilfish was strapped as well as he could be to a stretcher not fit for his body plan, screaming their lungs out in pain.
Without hesitation, Talek walks up to the gurney and brings his head closer to the tilfish’s thorax as he brings a paw to the side of his visor, the patient’s piercing screams inducing in him a minor headache “Did you give ‘em painkillers?!” he has to yell at a nearby nurse. He’d expected a report on the patient present in his visor’s data, but with this much intake all the information he could expect would come from the lungs of his coworkers.
The tilfish’s accelerated heartbeat could be felt in the vibration of their chest “Already, as much as we could but it doesn’t seem to work” the nurse answers. Talek brings a paw up to the side of his face, commanding again the visor he’s wearing and causing a single warning to come to life in his periphery ‘Busy’ is all it says.
With all of the possible sensor suites present here busy with other patients in triage he proceeds with the only tools he has left, his own self. He puts a paw over the tilfish’s chest, but got no further response. The next was touching their joints, but the screaming neither changes nor ceases. Further up is an attempt at touching their neck, aside from the strains of the screaming he can sense nothing else- But a minor spark of recognition strikes him. Very gently he brings a toe closer to their antennae.
While the tilfish does not respond for a moment, the instant his toe makes contact with the organ the tilfish’s head jerks aside, the scream turning into a gargle for a moment before it stops for a moment- Only for the patient to begin retching “Antennae connective tissue damage, overstimulation” those words are mostly to himself, he then raises a toe to his visor again “Operation room four, sensory deprivation gear, failing that a fucking water bucket will do” he howls over the renewed screams and begins pulling the stretcher.
Carrying the wailing tilfish he and the nurse quickly make their way through the corridors and up the elevator to the second floor, and from there it’s a quick trip to the operation room number four. In a moment his visor has synched up with the operation system, but their first action involves the least advanced object in the room: A green water bucket.
Talek swiftly grabs the bucket and brings it up, dunking the tilfish’s antennae on it. The patient calms down considerably, breathing hard and fast still, and gives them the chance they need to move him safely. As Talek holds the bucket in place the nurse carefully drags the stretcher until it connects with the operation theater, then he brings his face nearby the fluid “Can you hear me?”
The patient has an audible flinch, yet they manage to answer “Y-yes”
“You’ve suffered antennae damage, connective tissue” Talek keeps his voice steady and professional “The only solution is extensive regenerative treatment, it takes months, maybe over a year. But it won’t stop what you’re feeling right now”
“C-can you- Anything? The noise- THE BUZZING- I thought it’d go away-”
“Two choices, either a psychotropic or we cut the connective tissue. One will keep you dazed, similar to predator disease medicine, the other will cut you from your sense of smell and hearing.” This was hardly the worst bargain he had to offer to a patient, Talek couldn’t say they still moved him.
“Can’t- Argh” the tilfish winces again, their arms jerk against the restraint- They gag for a moment “Cut it out, CUT IT OUT” he was beginning to shout again.
It takes some effort to fully sedate the patient, Talek had to let go of the temporary sensory deprivation equipment, and the nurse had to physically restrain one of the tilfish’s arms until he could get an injector on their joint- One of the few vulnerable places unprotected by chitin. From there, it took a few more seconds until they had passed out and the operation could start.
For Talek’s skills it was simple, particularly with access to the hospital’s operating tools. He chose to use his own paws to guide the laser cutter, with the tiny camera set at the emitter as guidance he makes first an initial incision on the chitin protecting the connection, and then using weaker light a quick incision finishing the job the resonant frequencies had begun, fully severing that sensory organ’s connection to the rest of the body’s nervous system.
It takes little more than a few seconds to finish wrapping the exposed section with protective cloth “Take him to a free recovery room, send out a message for admin to book his treatment” the nurse needed no bedside manners, and they’re off as soon as the stretcher is detached from the operating theater.
That very same moment a red warning flashes on his visor, another emergency call, and he begins sprinting again. In the span of time it took for him to get the tilfish treated the corridors outside had become even more busy, there were people being treated for cuts and bruises right on the corridor, nurses were evaluating people and sending them to treatment rooms. Talek knew the distant noises and smell of ash were a simple psychosomatic response of his own body to the situation, unfortunately there were people in more need of aid than him right now.
More than once he had to use the wall climbing technique he’d honed so well to avoid interrupting anyone on the hall, and more than once he took advantage of his small stature to weave between longer sets of legs.
He arrives in time to see a stretcher being pulled in by a takkan nurse, in a trained move the nurse offers his arm to him and Talek hops up to get a better view of the patient. The sight in front of him was… Talek shakes his head, clearing the phantom mangling out of his sight and focusing on the wounded venlil on the stretcher. Orange stained the side of their head, their breathing was slow and ragged but little else could be seen at first glance.
It doesn’t take long for Talek’s visor to start showing more data as they approach one of the treatment rooms, as the sensors in the room spin to life an overlay comes over the venlil showing everything their thick fur was hiding, fractured bones in the leg, two broken ribs and most worryingly: Behind the closed lid of their left eye was nothing.
“Bone splints and foam, sealant gel” he states plainly for the nurse as he jumps off and reaches into the small tool cart. Busy as the hospital had become, not everyone had access to a full surgery suite and it’s not like he needed it right now. The first order of business was dealing with the eye.
First he lowers his head closer to listen to the patient’s breathing, then with care he opens the good eye to look at him and confirm the man’s unconscious state. Once done, he uses the same paw to open the damaged eye to find what is best described as a mushed orange paste in its place. The process of handling that was simple, slowly work to separate the damaged mass that was once an eye with a forceps, lift it and finally carefully snip off the optical nerve. By the time he had finished he just had to offer his paw out for the nurse to hand him the sealant gel, the translucent material used to coat the interior of the empty eyesocket to prevent infection.
As the nurse proceeded to wrap the eye, Talek progressed to the leg. With a quick hand and a shaver he removes the fur around the fracture as he analyzes the overlay from the sensors, he’s working almost on automatic at this point as his next step is to perform an incision on the skin granting him access to the muscle and bone beneath. The process to remove bone fragments is rapid for him, two dozen little fragments of bone that had become lodged in the muscle, and one major leg vein had to be sewn shut with bio-absorbable suture.
The next step was to realign the bone, then inject the bone foam in the fractures so they would heal rapidly. Next, closing the incision and stapling it closed and then slipping the splint around the leg. He stops for half a second staring at the advanced split he’d just slipped into the venlil’s leg, the equipment could adjust itself to the wearer according to set parameters to ensure the leg remained properly positioned until the bones had healed.
He used to have memorized the right parameters to input for a venlil, the system would adjust the rest to the details of the user. But now he had two sets of parameters to choose from, this man was here right now because there was this difference. Talek’s mind is blank for a moment, he had to make a decision right now as first response, and he inputs the old values.
Just focus on keeping them stable, he can fix himself later if wants. Also that’d make the legs uneven, why did you even hesitate?
He steps back from the stretcher “I’ll take him to the recovery ward, take a second doc” the nurse says as they leave. Talek… Would like to say he doesn’t need that second, but he does. He raises his paws up to his face, staring at the orange stains over his pure white scales… He’d grown so used to shifting into a white color to better see anything he’d need to clean that it had become his normal idle coloration.
Another warning on his visor tells him he can’t keep doing this for much longer, so he hurries to the washing station until his scales are white again. He doesn’t need to rush through the corridors this time, however, as the patient was being brought to the very same room he was in a second ago. And this time the warning came with a report, the influx of new victims must be slowing down if triage was finding time for at least a basic report over the system instead of just shouting something.
“Krakotl, female, young, broken bones, torn muscles, wing” he mutters to himself as he walks back to the room. It doesn’t take much longer until the venlil nurse drags the stretcher in, and a final detail about the patient that the report failed to mention: She was wet, completely soaked. Also, she was aware.
Quickly enough the sensor suite in the room was reading his patient, and Talek saw signs of nothing unusual. Or he did not for a fragment of a second, before his mind reminded him that the multiple fractures, torn flesh and lost feathers were supposed to be unusual. He quickly approaches the avian, apprising each wound- The arm had fractured in four places including the shoulder joint, from the damage whatever crushed her bones had proceeded to attempt to remove it by force leading to torn muscles and complete loss of functionality, she was cradling it close to her chest with the other wing. “What happened” he asks bluntly.
“T-the water…” she says, coughing immediately after. “I didn’t think water was so hard, it was like being hit with a car” she winces again, the involuntary shoulder jostling her arm “A-and the shocks…”
At that mention Talek comes closer to inspect the exposed skin of her wing, the water had managed to rip a great deal of feathers and flay her more sensitive skin, and in addition to that there was further markings indicative of electrical burns.
But those are older scars.
The first process Talek goes through is applying a local anesthetic as he explains the procedure about to happen “I will have to reset your bones first and foremost, it should be painless with this anesthetic” he doesn’t wait for confirmation, of course, before injecting the fluid on her wing. After a few seconds of wait for the medicine to work he gently holds the wing and feels along the arm bones until he finds the fractures. Simple and clean breaks, easily put back into position which won’t even need bone foam to heal quickly. No access to wing braces would ordinarily be an issue, however, combining the feather loss and the necessity to use treated bandages for the damaged skin makes using the bandaging as bracing an easy choice.
Then, it was time for the most difficult part, which he needed the stabilized wing for. The shoulder joint had thankfully mostly survived, the bones had their heads slightly damaged and the connective tissue was torn asunder, but nothing the body couldn’t fix in time. The process was easy enough here, first removing the first-aid sealant gel, then applying a small amount of bone foam on the heads of the bones, some regenerative gel to induce faster recovery of the connective tissue of the joint, then readjust the elbow into place and suture it closed.
By the time he’d finished he saw the krakotl hadn’t ceased staring at the process, seemingly unfazed at seeing her arm being stitched together. He takes a moment to look closer, analyzing her eye’s reactions to a small light, ensuring there is no possible cognitive damage. “Take her to the recovery ward” he says calmly.
“Th-thanks doctor” the krakotl says, and then coughs again.
“Just my job” Talek turns to the nurse “Check what she’s being fed, there’s some minor throat damage. She must have inhaled some of the water” he says before finally walking out of the room.
And then, an emergency call pings on Talek’s visor. He’s off through the corridors again, but this time there are fewer legs to weave through, and almost no obstructions on his path. The visor’s augmented reality guides him towards the right room, not like he didn’t already memorize the paths of the hospital. It was an operating room, cleaning up and getting ready took mere moments and soon he had made his way inside to be greeted with a human in the stretcher attached to the operating system.
The staff had already put a tube down his mouth, from the looks of it towards his respiratory system, but it was draining too much blood. By now his visor had synched with the sensors already, but just the peripheral gear wasn’t showing enough data for this, so with a simple paw movement he calls down a sensor arm from the ceiling and brings it closer to the human’s body to examine. The more detailed scan shows signs of blood buildup as well as fluid pressure in the chest cavity, so he quickly tears open the patient’s clothing with a scissor and is welcomed with a pale skin filled with a large blue-black patch.
Talek brings the sensor arm closer, keeping a close eye in the readouts… “Broken rib, punctured heart, pressure. I need a drain” he commands mechanically as he calls down a precision cutter from the ceiling- This time he’ll need to use mechanized assistance. As the staff hurries to bring the additional piece of gear he readies the sharpened cutter by the man’s chest, closes his mouth with certainty and initiates the incision. The pressure of the built up blood causes a small, temporary spray of blood to erupt from the initial incision that manages to stain the left side of his body but he continues nonetheless, opening up the human’s chest cavity and putting in the draining tube to remove the excess blood.
A rib had broken and the fragment had lodged itself in the man’s heart, though the bleeding was profuse the bone itself was doing a decent job at keeping most of the blood from spilling, his heart continued to beat in rhythm. The process was simple, in theory, and in practice as well but the execution would need to be both quick and precise.
First was preparing a manipulator arm to remove the bone piece from the heart, then using three other, slimmer, manipulators holding the edges of the wound he pulls out the bone fragment and commands the smaller manipulators to hold the wound closed. The loss of blood was minimal. The next step required suturing the wound tightly closed and applying an absorbable sealing tissue to prevent further blood loss. Will require followup, but everything that can be done for the wounded heart was done.
Then, the rib required attending. The fracture wasn’t clear, but not unrecoverable. The bone fragment could be re-placed in position, and the addition of bone foam and sealing tissue would ensure the rib would eventually recover, the severed cartilage would need to go unattended for now and might require further treatment.
Finishing the process, then, was to finally close up the skin of the patient and properly suture it, a process made much faster with the usage of the precision tools. Once done, he looks down at the human he’d been operating on, the crimson stains on his white scales, the clearly pained face of the unconscious man whose lungs were being drained of fluid buildup by a tube shoved down his threat.
Talek’s toes twitch, and he steps back from the stretcher so that the staff can move him away to the recovery ward “K-” the man’s voice fights against the tube on his throat “Kichi…” somehow still retaining some consciousness despite his state, but he can’t say anything else before he’s out of the room. But Talek had no reprieve, immediately another cart arrived into the room and was attached to the operation rig, but this one was even more worrisome.
He gives a command for the operation rig to send the current toolset for sterilization and replace them with a new clean set, for the few seconds the process took Talek stares at the new patient before him. The sort of patient every doctor fears, especially those working emergencies: A dossur.
A being so small is infinitely fragile, and dossur are famous among doctors for being a lifeform with only extremes. They could survive things that’d have killed larger people five times over, but anything that could cause them any damage would cause critical, nearly life-ending damage. There was no middle ground with them, and this woman seemed to be teetering towards the critical. Visibly, her outward wounds were her right leg, which had been crushed by some external force, and the right side of her torso had become a single massive bruise. The blood covering her, however, was red. But a sound was what called up Talek’s attention the most: That of her breathing.
He couldn’t use his senses for this and the tool suite had been swapped, so he lowers a scanner arm towards her and begins gathering information. The first thing to notice was that her leg’s bones weren’t broken, but instead completely pulverized beyond recovery, the bruise that was the right side of her body merely indicated whatever happened was pure blunt force as her innards indicated ruptured organs in that area from the impact- But despite all that the most worrisome were her lungs. The sensors’ imaging was showing her lungs working overtime and yet her breathing sounded just plain wrong and as if she wasn’t able to draw in enough breath.
There was no time to keep researching, she needed aid in breathing first and foremost, so Talek carefully uses a mechanized tube pushed through her mouth. Usually for larger people the tube could be manually inserted but for someone so small he decided to use one that had its own powered articulation as well as a micro camera to help with guidance, which had proven to be a wise decision as he could see the damage to her throat in the process.
There were quite a few plants that were mildly poisonous, and of course Talek knew that people of all sorts enjoyed such toxins. It was just a part of being people, some people simply enjoyed consuming irritants, a classic example being capsaicin. But the dosage is always important, and the effects such irritants cause vary between species, dossur in particular could suffer sores in their soft tissue from an excess of capsaicin. He had seen capsaicin poisoning on dossur before, but he had never seen the effects manifest themselves in the respiratory system and as he continued to push the respiratory tube down towards her lungs he saw more and more damage.
Talek had, this paw, finally seen something he had not seen before. This woman had inhaled enough capsaicin to damage her respiratory system- And if enough of it got into her blood flow, she would die. The clock was ticking and all the wounds that had built up on this woman prevented a proper treatment of the other.
“Prepare a dialysis machine, now! Make sure there is a filter for capsaicin!” Talek says to the staff with a mechanical voice.
He flicks his wrists and calls down the entire surgery equipment, sets it to maximum sensitivity and starts- This woman will need an external dialysis until her system has been purged of the literally deadly amount of capsaicin she had inhaled, but she couldn’t be put into a dialysis machine until the ruptured organs were re-stitched so the first order of business was initiating an incision on her torso, the process was quick and had machine-compensated precision.
Next, the damaged organs had to be sutured. There was more than one, the intestine had suffered damage, the bladder had ruptured but not been completely devastated and one of the kidneys was beyond saving, so he begins suturing quickly while one of the staff uses a suction tube to clean the pooling blood and humors. There wasn’t much time to do what was needed, the kidney had to be removed with a laser cutter, the intestine left to find its own position alone and the bladder needed a layer of absorbable cover to prevent a possible leaking. Anything else would have to wait until her blood had been cleansed.
The sutures on her skin were still professional, but they were quick. The next step was getting a good access point to her blood, one entrance and one exit. For the required volume, especially given their size, there were very few places the needles could find purchase- With machine-assisted precision he gently drives a very small, thin needle on the patient’s neck, and a second one on her waist. With the procedure done he steps back “Take her to dialysis, now” the staff detach the operation cart and start to move her away.
Talek stares at the dossur being moved, and without thinking brings a paw up to his visor- He couldn’t. Something in him wanted to know who this person was, something told him there was a story here, but he knew he shouldn’t. They were just victims, if they were anything else for him then he wouldn’t be able to work, if he cared then he wouldn’t be able to treat them well. He brings his paw away from his visor, and stares at it.
White scales stained red and green, sharp claws on the tip of terrifying digits. They’re no different from pieces of meat.
Talek shakes his head hard, then brings his paw to the side of his visor, summoning up the identification of the patient just as they’re about to bring the dossur out of the door. He stares at the nametag by her, ‘Kichi’ it says, and soon she vanishes past the door.
He continues to stare at the door as his breathing speeds up. But that process is short-circuited as another emergency signal is reported, he inhales a sharp breath and heads to the cleaning room as he commands the operating tools to cycle again.
By the time he had returned there was a new patient waiting, this one was a venlil with silver fur. No obvious external injuries, but his breathing was clearly troubled. “They got stickyfoam on their face” it was a human nurse that had brought them in “Sticky substance that turns solid, needs a special solvent.” The nurse holds a small canister out “First aid got him mostly breathing without need of a tracheostomy, but just barely”
Talek nods, once again calling down the surgical tools. The patient was quite clearly sedated, a necessity as he’d be panicking from the lack of breath. Talek took a second to recognize how often he had to operate on the airways of people this paw; it seems that whatever they were doing in the chaos outside aimed only at the most fragile parts of bodies, every wound had been failures of the most sensitive systems of the body.
This time the first step was unusual, the nurse needed to rig the solvent into the surgical tools. While the set of instruments at the tip of the tube meant to enter the patient included a spray for medicinal compounds it wasn’t made to normally utilize ad-hoc materials, but the nurse was inventive and jury-rigged a solution by replacing one of the anesthetic canisters with the the solvent, it suffered from a loss of pressure and that particular operating arm would need a complete maintenance cycle afterwards, but it worked.
Then, he began guiding the articulated tube down the venlil’s mouth. The process was slow, he needed to first spray the green mass that had solidified in many parts, from the roof of the mouth to the between teeth and under the tongue, before using the forceps and scissor tools to remove pieces that would be sucked out from the cavity by the suction tool.
Clearing the mouth was easy, and merely practice for the process later in more fragile parts. He then proceeded to guide the tube down the throat, he could see a small passage for air, but the blockage was easily ninety percent of the space of the throat. The process to soften, cut and remove the green mass continued to be slow and careful, though the position of the patient precluded any from falling further down the throat.
Some pieces did not let go with ease as regardless of how much care he had a few had reacted with the mucous of the throat, becoming firmly attached and eventually causing a wound when removed. Those were quickly treated with some superficial sealant gel and should lead to no more than discomfort when breathing and eating for a while.
When the process was completed, he finally slowly removes the tube from the patient’s mouth and waits. Slowly, he can hear the man’s breathing become fuller and less ragged. “I think this is the last serious case we got, doctor” the nurse looks down at him “Don’t know how you do it”
“I don’t either” Talek sighs with emotion “Get him to the recovery ward” he says, following him out of the room as he carries the stretcher. However, as they exit the operation room there is a venlil waiting out there, her silvery fur is of a different shade than that of the patient, she’s dressed in a strange set of black plates indicating she was probably one of the ones on the side of the law outside “Yes?” he says, with his professional tone.
“I… I just wanted to know how he’s doing…”
“Family?”
“N-no… No. It’s just- I… I caused that, and I need to know if he’s alright”
Talek shakes his head slightly, causing the venlil’s ears to fold back “Nothing long-term, the first response was fast enough to prevent any damage by hypoxia and cleaning up that substance wasn’t difficult. Please avoid doing the same again in the future”
“Y-yes… Yes… Thank you”
Talek waves dismissively at the officer before continuing to head out. He finds the corridors to be a lot more orderly now, how long had passed since this all began? He’d lost track. He passes by the admission area, finding it still full but no life-threatening wounds.
Then he walks outside, looking to the sides of the street. Behind him, Solgalick’s Mercy stood tall and unbroken,every other building around it a pile of rubble the buildings around surprisingly unblemished despite the damaged cars, upturned trashcans and copses littering the street. Off in the distance the city hall exterminator’s building was still blazing.
I wonder… When will I ever leave Lithan’s Orchard? Half the galaxy was not far enough to leave… Maybe I just have to accept I never will.
Once again he shakes his head to clear his thoughts, turns around, and heads back inside.
[ [FIRST] [NEXT>]
It is a misnomer to call them non-lethal, because the living body is a fragile thing, and even the gentlest touch can wreck havok on it's balance. And yet, at times, you must be firm, and harmful.
But even the least chances are nor impossible, and others will have to live with the consequences of your actions.
submitted by JulianSkies to NatureofPredators [link] [comments]
Season 10 “Days of Fury” - Episode 4 “Aftermath of Lesser Chances”
Talek was not your everyday doctor. Few people would claim to have three different species as parents and somehow make it land true, and honestly few people would use ‘mother’ and ‘father’ to refer to four different people. Still, that gave the harchen both an unusual name and an unusual upbringing.Talek had done more than just follow on mama Heren’s pawsteps, medical college on Colia was just the start. He served in the First Response Fleet, he saw the worst the galaxy had to offer, he saw more than one world meet its end, he had to operate in conditions even the yotul would break out the word ‘primitive’ for. He thought he would have gotten away from the battlefield finding work on Skalga. Solgalick’s Mercy was proving him wrong.
“Move, move, move” he jumps on the wall to dodge a moving stretcher, scrambling on all fours on it for a few steps before jumping out of it and continuing his sprint towards the admission area.
The admission area was usually an ordered thing, patients would come in and quickly and efficiently be directed to where they needed to go. It was still as ordered as it could be, which wasn’t much. Talek did not have time to look at the patients, he had been directly called for a reason- The screeching deafening everyone was the reason, a tilfish was strapped as well as he could be to a stretcher not fit for his body plan, screaming their lungs out in pain.
Without hesitation, Talek walks up to the gurney and brings his head closer to the tilfish’s thorax as he brings a paw to the side of his visor, the patient’s piercing screams inducing in him a minor headache “Did you give ‘em painkillers?!” he has to yell at a nearby nurse. He’d expected a report on the patient present in his visor’s data, but with this much intake all the information he could expect would come from the lungs of his coworkers.
The tilfish’s accelerated heartbeat could be felt in the vibration of their chest “Already, as much as we could but it doesn’t seem to work” the nurse answers. Talek brings a paw up to the side of his face, commanding again the visor he’s wearing and causing a single warning to come to life in his periphery ‘Busy’ is all it says.
With all of the possible sensor suites present here busy with other patients in triage he proceeds with the only tools he has left, his own self. He puts a paw over the tilfish’s chest, but got no further response. The next was touching their joints, but the screaming neither changes nor ceases. Further up is an attempt at touching their neck, aside from the strains of the screaming he can sense nothing else- But a minor spark of recognition strikes him. Very gently he brings a toe closer to their antennae.
While the tilfish does not respond for a moment, the instant his toe makes contact with the organ the tilfish’s head jerks aside, the scream turning into a gargle for a moment before it stops for a moment- Only for the patient to begin retching “Antennae connective tissue damage, overstimulation” those words are mostly to himself, he then raises a toe to his visor again “Operation room four, sensory deprivation gear, failing that a fucking water bucket will do” he howls over the renewed screams and begins pulling the stretcher.
Carrying the wailing tilfish he and the nurse quickly make their way through the corridors and up the elevator to the second floor, and from there it’s a quick trip to the operation room number four. In a moment his visor has synched up with the operation system, but their first action involves the least advanced object in the room: A green water bucket.
Talek swiftly grabs the bucket and brings it up, dunking the tilfish’s antennae on it. The patient calms down considerably, breathing hard and fast still, and gives them the chance they need to move him safely. As Talek holds the bucket in place the nurse carefully drags the stretcher until it connects with the operation theater, then he brings his face nearby the fluid “Can you hear me?”
The patient has an audible flinch, yet they manage to answer “Y-yes”
“You’ve suffered antennae damage, connective tissue” Talek keeps his voice steady and professional “The only solution is extensive regenerative treatment, it takes months, maybe over a year. But it won’t stop what you’re feeling right now”
“C-can you- Anything? The noise- THE BUZZING- I thought it’d go away-”
“Two choices, either a psychotropic or we cut the connective tissue. One will keep you dazed, similar to predator disease medicine, the other will cut you from your sense of smell and hearing.” This was hardly the worst bargain he had to offer to a patient, Talek couldn’t say they still moved him.
“Can’t- Argh” the tilfish winces again, their arms jerk against the restraint- They gag for a moment “Cut it out, CUT IT OUT” he was beginning to shout again.
It takes some effort to fully sedate the patient, Talek had to let go of the temporary sensory deprivation equipment, and the nurse had to physically restrain one of the tilfish’s arms until he could get an injector on their joint- One of the few vulnerable places unprotected by chitin. From there, it took a few more seconds until they had passed out and the operation could start.
For Talek’s skills it was simple, particularly with access to the hospital’s operating tools. He chose to use his own paws to guide the laser cutter, with the tiny camera set at the emitter as guidance he makes first an initial incision on the chitin protecting the connection, and then using weaker light a quick incision finishing the job the resonant frequencies had begun, fully severing that sensory organ’s connection to the rest of the body’s nervous system.
It takes little more than a few seconds to finish wrapping the exposed section with protective cloth “Take him to a free recovery room, send out a message for admin to book his treatment” the nurse needed no bedside manners, and they’re off as soon as the stretcher is detached from the operating theater.
That very same moment a red warning flashes on his visor, another emergency call, and he begins sprinting again. In the span of time it took for him to get the tilfish treated the corridors outside had become even more busy, there were people being treated for cuts and bruises right on the corridor, nurses were evaluating people and sending them to treatment rooms. Talek knew the distant noises and smell of ash were a simple psychosomatic response of his own body to the situation, unfortunately there were people in more need of aid than him right now.
More than once he had to use the wall climbing technique he’d honed so well to avoid interrupting anyone on the hall, and more than once he took advantage of his small stature to weave between longer sets of legs.
He arrives in time to see a stretcher being pulled in by a takkan nurse, in a trained move the nurse offers his arm to him and Talek hops up to get a better view of the patient. The sight in front of him was… Talek shakes his head, clearing the phantom mangling out of his sight and focusing on the wounded venlil on the stretcher. Orange stained the side of their head, their breathing was slow and ragged but little else could be seen at first glance.
It doesn’t take long for Talek’s visor to start showing more data as they approach one of the treatment rooms, as the sensors in the room spin to life an overlay comes over the venlil showing everything their thick fur was hiding, fractured bones in the leg, two broken ribs and most worryingly: Behind the closed lid of their left eye was nothing.
“Bone splints and foam, sealant gel” he states plainly for the nurse as he jumps off and reaches into the small tool cart. Busy as the hospital had become, not everyone had access to a full surgery suite and it’s not like he needed it right now. The first order of business was dealing with the eye.
First he lowers his head closer to listen to the patient’s breathing, then with care he opens the good eye to look at him and confirm the man’s unconscious state. Once done, he uses the same paw to open the damaged eye to find what is best described as a mushed orange paste in its place. The process of handling that was simple, slowly work to separate the damaged mass that was once an eye with a forceps, lift it and finally carefully snip off the optical nerve. By the time he had finished he just had to offer his paw out for the nurse to hand him the sealant gel, the translucent material used to coat the interior of the empty eyesocket to prevent infection.
As the nurse proceeded to wrap the eye, Talek progressed to the leg. With a quick hand and a shaver he removes the fur around the fracture as he analyzes the overlay from the sensors, he’s working almost on automatic at this point as his next step is to perform an incision on the skin granting him access to the muscle and bone beneath. The process to remove bone fragments is rapid for him, two dozen little fragments of bone that had become lodged in the muscle, and one major leg vein had to be sewn shut with bio-absorbable suture.
The next step was to realign the bone, then inject the bone foam in the fractures so they would heal rapidly. Next, closing the incision and stapling it closed and then slipping the splint around the leg. He stops for half a second staring at the advanced split he’d just slipped into the venlil’s leg, the equipment could adjust itself to the wearer according to set parameters to ensure the leg remained properly positioned until the bones had healed.
He used to have memorized the right parameters to input for a venlil, the system would adjust the rest to the details of the user. But now he had two sets of parameters to choose from, this man was here right now because there was this difference. Talek’s mind is blank for a moment, he had to make a decision right now as first response, and he inputs the old values.
Just focus on keeping them stable, he can fix himself later if wants. Also that’d make the legs uneven, why did you even hesitate?
He steps back from the stretcher “I’ll take him to the recovery ward, take a second doc” the nurse says as they leave. Talek… Would like to say he doesn’t need that second, but he does. He raises his paws up to his face, staring at the orange stains over his pure white scales… He’d grown so used to shifting into a white color to better see anything he’d need to clean that it had become his normal idle coloration.
Another warning on his visor tells him he can’t keep doing this for much longer, so he hurries to the washing station until his scales are white again. He doesn’t need to rush through the corridors this time, however, as the patient was being brought to the very same room he was in a second ago. And this time the warning came with a report, the influx of new victims must be slowing down if triage was finding time for at least a basic report over the system instead of just shouting something.
“Krakotl, female, young, broken bones, torn muscles, wing” he mutters to himself as he walks back to the room. It doesn’t take much longer until the venlil nurse drags the stretcher in, and a final detail about the patient that the report failed to mention: She was wet, completely soaked. Also, she was aware.
Quickly enough the sensor suite in the room was reading his patient, and Talek saw signs of nothing unusual. Or he did not for a fragment of a second, before his mind reminded him that the multiple fractures, torn flesh and lost feathers were supposed to be unusual. He quickly approaches the avian, apprising each wound- The arm had fractured in four places including the shoulder joint, from the damage whatever crushed her bones had proceeded to attempt to remove it by force leading to torn muscles and complete loss of functionality, she was cradling it close to her chest with the other wing. “What happened” he asks bluntly.
“T-the water…” she says, coughing immediately after. “I didn’t think water was so hard, it was like being hit with a car” she winces again, the involuntary shoulder jostling her arm “A-and the shocks…”
At that mention Talek comes closer to inspect the exposed skin of her wing, the water had managed to rip a great deal of feathers and flay her more sensitive skin, and in addition to that there was further markings indicative of electrical burns.
But those are older scars.
The first process Talek goes through is applying a local anesthetic as he explains the procedure about to happen “I will have to reset your bones first and foremost, it should be painless with this anesthetic” he doesn’t wait for confirmation, of course, before injecting the fluid on her wing. After a few seconds of wait for the medicine to work he gently holds the wing and feels along the arm bones until he finds the fractures. Simple and clean breaks, easily put back into position which won’t even need bone foam to heal quickly. No access to wing braces would ordinarily be an issue, however, combining the feather loss and the necessity to use treated bandages for the damaged skin makes using the bandaging as bracing an easy choice.
Then, it was time for the most difficult part, which he needed the stabilized wing for. The shoulder joint had thankfully mostly survived, the bones had their heads slightly damaged and the connective tissue was torn asunder, but nothing the body couldn’t fix in time. The process was easy enough here, first removing the first-aid sealant gel, then applying a small amount of bone foam on the heads of the bones, some regenerative gel to induce faster recovery of the connective tissue of the joint, then readjust the elbow into place and suture it closed.
By the time he’d finished he saw the krakotl hadn’t ceased staring at the process, seemingly unfazed at seeing her arm being stitched together. He takes a moment to look closer, analyzing her eye’s reactions to a small light, ensuring there is no possible cognitive damage. “Take her to the recovery ward” he says calmly.
“Th-thanks doctor” the krakotl says, and then coughs again.
“Just my job” Talek turns to the nurse “Check what she’s being fed, there’s some minor throat damage. She must have inhaled some of the water” he says before finally walking out of the room.
And then, an emergency call pings on Talek’s visor. He’s off through the corridors again, but this time there are fewer legs to weave through, and almost no obstructions on his path. The visor’s augmented reality guides him towards the right room, not like he didn’t already memorize the paths of the hospital. It was an operating room, cleaning up and getting ready took mere moments and soon he had made his way inside to be greeted with a human in the stretcher attached to the operating system.
The staff had already put a tube down his mouth, from the looks of it towards his respiratory system, but it was draining too much blood. By now his visor had synched with the sensors already, but just the peripheral gear wasn’t showing enough data for this, so with a simple paw movement he calls down a sensor arm from the ceiling and brings it closer to the human’s body to examine. The more detailed scan shows signs of blood buildup as well as fluid pressure in the chest cavity, so he quickly tears open the patient’s clothing with a scissor and is welcomed with a pale skin filled with a large blue-black patch.
Talek brings the sensor arm closer, keeping a close eye in the readouts… “Broken rib, punctured heart, pressure. I need a drain” he commands mechanically as he calls down a precision cutter from the ceiling- This time he’ll need to use mechanized assistance. As the staff hurries to bring the additional piece of gear he readies the sharpened cutter by the man’s chest, closes his mouth with certainty and initiates the incision. The pressure of the built up blood causes a small, temporary spray of blood to erupt from the initial incision that manages to stain the left side of his body but he continues nonetheless, opening up the human’s chest cavity and putting in the draining tube to remove the excess blood.
A rib had broken and the fragment had lodged itself in the man’s heart, though the bleeding was profuse the bone itself was doing a decent job at keeping most of the blood from spilling, his heart continued to beat in rhythm. The process was simple, in theory, and in practice as well but the execution would need to be both quick and precise.
First was preparing a manipulator arm to remove the bone piece from the heart, then using three other, slimmer, manipulators holding the edges of the wound he pulls out the bone fragment and commands the smaller manipulators to hold the wound closed. The loss of blood was minimal. The next step required suturing the wound tightly closed and applying an absorbable sealing tissue to prevent further blood loss. Will require followup, but everything that can be done for the wounded heart was done.
Then, the rib required attending. The fracture wasn’t clear, but not unrecoverable. The bone fragment could be re-placed in position, and the addition of bone foam and sealing tissue would ensure the rib would eventually recover, the severed cartilage would need to go unattended for now and might require further treatment.
Finishing the process, then, was to finally close up the skin of the patient and properly suture it, a process made much faster with the usage of the precision tools. Once done, he looks down at the human he’d been operating on, the crimson stains on his white scales, the clearly pained face of the unconscious man whose lungs were being drained of fluid buildup by a tube shoved down his threat.
Talek’s toes twitch, and he steps back from the stretcher so that the staff can move him away to the recovery ward “K-” the man’s voice fights against the tube on his throat “Kichi…” somehow still retaining some consciousness despite his state, but he can’t say anything else before he’s out of the room. But Talek had no reprieve, immediately another cart arrived into the room and was attached to the operation rig, but this one was even more worrisome.
He gives a command for the operation rig to send the current toolset for sterilization and replace them with a new clean set, for the few seconds the process took Talek stares at the new patient before him. The sort of patient every doctor fears, especially those working emergencies: A dossur.
A being so small is infinitely fragile, and dossur are famous among doctors for being a lifeform with only extremes. They could survive things that’d have killed larger people five times over, but anything that could cause them any damage would cause critical, nearly life-ending damage. There was no middle ground with them, and this woman seemed to be teetering towards the critical. Visibly, her outward wounds were her right leg, which had been crushed by some external force, and the right side of her torso had become a single massive bruise. The blood covering her, however, was red. But a sound was what called up Talek’s attention the most: That of her breathing.
He couldn’t use his senses for this and the tool suite had been swapped, so he lowers a scanner arm towards her and begins gathering information. The first thing to notice was that her leg’s bones weren’t broken, but instead completely pulverized beyond recovery, the bruise that was the right side of her body merely indicated whatever happened was pure blunt force as her innards indicated ruptured organs in that area from the impact- But despite all that the most worrisome were her lungs. The sensors’ imaging was showing her lungs working overtime and yet her breathing sounded just plain wrong and as if she wasn’t able to draw in enough breath.
There was no time to keep researching, she needed aid in breathing first and foremost, so Talek carefully uses a mechanized tube pushed through her mouth. Usually for larger people the tube could be manually inserted but for someone so small he decided to use one that had its own powered articulation as well as a micro camera to help with guidance, which had proven to be a wise decision as he could see the damage to her throat in the process.
There were quite a few plants that were mildly poisonous, and of course Talek knew that people of all sorts enjoyed such toxins. It was just a part of being people, some people simply enjoyed consuming irritants, a classic example being capsaicin. But the dosage is always important, and the effects such irritants cause vary between species, dossur in particular could suffer sores in their soft tissue from an excess of capsaicin. He had seen capsaicin poisoning on dossur before, but he had never seen the effects manifest themselves in the respiratory system and as he continued to push the respiratory tube down towards her lungs he saw more and more damage.
Talek had, this paw, finally seen something he had not seen before. This woman had inhaled enough capsaicin to damage her respiratory system- And if enough of it got into her blood flow, she would die. The clock was ticking and all the wounds that had built up on this woman prevented a proper treatment of the other.
“Prepare a dialysis machine, now! Make sure there is a filter for capsaicin!” Talek says to the staff with a mechanical voice.
He flicks his wrists and calls down the entire surgery equipment, sets it to maximum sensitivity and starts- This woman will need an external dialysis until her system has been purged of the literally deadly amount of capsaicin she had inhaled, but she couldn’t be put into a dialysis machine until the ruptured organs were re-stitched so the first order of business was initiating an incision on her torso, the process was quick and had machine-compensated precision.
Next, the damaged organs had to be sutured. There was more than one, the intestine had suffered damage, the bladder had ruptured but not been completely devastated and one of the kidneys was beyond saving, so he begins suturing quickly while one of the staff uses a suction tube to clean the pooling blood and humors. There wasn’t much time to do what was needed, the kidney had to be removed with a laser cutter, the intestine left to find its own position alone and the bladder needed a layer of absorbable cover to prevent a possible leaking. Anything else would have to wait until her blood had been cleansed.
The sutures on her skin were still professional, but they were quick. The next step was getting a good access point to her blood, one entrance and one exit. For the required volume, especially given their size, there were very few places the needles could find purchase- With machine-assisted precision he gently drives a very small, thin needle on the patient’s neck, and a second one on her waist. With the procedure done he steps back “Take her to dialysis, now” the staff detach the operation cart and start to move her away.
Talek stares at the dossur being moved, and without thinking brings a paw up to his visor- He couldn’t. Something in him wanted to know who this person was, something told him there was a story here, but he knew he shouldn’t. They were just victims, if they were anything else for him then he wouldn’t be able to work, if he cared then he wouldn’t be able to treat them well. He brings his paw away from his visor, and stares at it.
White scales stained red and green, sharp claws on the tip of terrifying digits. They’re no different from pieces of meat.
Talek shakes his head hard, then brings his paw to the side of his visor, summoning up the identification of the patient just as they’re about to bring the dossur out of the door. He stares at the nametag by her, ‘Kichi’ it says, and soon she vanishes past the door.
He continues to stare at the door as his breathing speeds up. But that process is short-circuited as another emergency signal is reported, he inhales a sharp breath and heads to the cleaning room as he commands the operating tools to cycle again.
By the time he had returned there was a new patient waiting, this one was a venlil with silver fur. No obvious external injuries, but his breathing was clearly troubled. “They got stickyfoam on their face” it was a human nurse that had brought them in “Sticky substance that turns solid, needs a special solvent.” The nurse holds a small canister out “First aid got him mostly breathing without need of a tracheostomy, but just barely”
Talek nods, once again calling down the surgical tools. The patient was quite clearly sedated, a necessity as he’d be panicking from the lack of breath. Talek took a second to recognize how often he had to operate on the airways of people this paw; it seems that whatever they were doing in the chaos outside aimed only at the most fragile parts of bodies, every wound had been failures of the most sensitive systems of the body.
This time the first step was unusual, the nurse needed to rig the solvent into the surgical tools. While the set of instruments at the tip of the tube meant to enter the patient included a spray for medicinal compounds it wasn’t made to normally utilize ad-hoc materials, but the nurse was inventive and jury-rigged a solution by replacing one of the anesthetic canisters with the the solvent, it suffered from a loss of pressure and that particular operating arm would need a complete maintenance cycle afterwards, but it worked.
Then, he began guiding the articulated tube down the venlil’s mouth. The process was slow, he needed to first spray the green mass that had solidified in many parts, from the roof of the mouth to the between teeth and under the tongue, before using the forceps and scissor tools to remove pieces that would be sucked out from the cavity by the suction tool.
Clearing the mouth was easy, and merely practice for the process later in more fragile parts. He then proceeded to guide the tube down the throat, he could see a small passage for air, but the blockage was easily ninety percent of the space of the throat. The process to soften, cut and remove the green mass continued to be slow and careful, though the position of the patient precluded any from falling further down the throat.
Some pieces did not let go with ease as regardless of how much care he had a few had reacted with the mucous of the throat, becoming firmly attached and eventually causing a wound when removed. Those were quickly treated with some superficial sealant gel and should lead to no more than discomfort when breathing and eating for a while.
When the process was completed, he finally slowly removes the tube from the patient’s mouth and waits. Slowly, he can hear the man’s breathing become fuller and less ragged. “I think this is the last serious case we got, doctor” the nurse looks down at him “Don’t know how you do it”
“I don’t either” Talek sighs with emotion “Get him to the recovery ward” he says, following him out of the room as he carries the stretcher. However, as they exit the operation room there is a venlil waiting out there, her silvery fur is of a different shade than that of the patient, she’s dressed in a strange set of black plates indicating she was probably one of the ones on the side of the law outside “Yes?” he says, with his professional tone.
“I… I just wanted to know how he’s doing…”
“Family?”
“N-no… No. It’s just- I… I caused that, and I need to know if he’s alright”
Talek shakes his head slightly, causing the venlil’s ears to fold back “Nothing long-term, the first response was fast enough to prevent any damage by hypoxia and cleaning up that substance wasn’t difficult. Please avoid doing the same again in the future”
“Y-yes… Yes… Thank you”
Talek waves dismissively at the officer before continuing to head out. He finds the corridors to be a lot more orderly now, how long had passed since this all began? He’d lost track. He passes by the admission area, finding it still full but no life-threatening wounds.
Then he walks outside, looking to the sides of the street. Behind him, Solgalick’s Mercy stood tall and unbroken,
I wonder… When will I ever leave Lithan’s Orchard? Half the galaxy was not far enough to leave… Maybe I just have to accept I never will.
Once again he shakes his head to clear his thoughts, turns around, and heads back inside.
It is a misnomer to call them non-lethal, because the living body is a fragile thing, and even the gentlest touch can wreck havok on it's balance. And yet, at times, you must be firm, and harmful.
But even the least chances are nor impossible, and others will have to live with the consequences of your actions.
2024.06.09 05:08 ConsequenceSure3063 Best File Folder Organizers
 | submitted by ConsequenceSure3063 to u/ConsequenceSure3063 [link] [comments] https://preview.redd.it/g84xlpovpg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4e5ddfbd313bf6b0b4483b028667377d929b4fcc Stay organized and clutter-free with our top picks for file folder organizers. In this article, we'll explore some must-have products that make filing your important documents a breeze. Whether you're a home office warrior or a busy professional, we've got you covered with a roundup of the best file folder organizers available. Get ready to get your paperwork in order and enjoy the benefits of a well-organized workspace. The Top 20 Best File Folder Organizers
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Despite this, the file organizer's fireproof performance outshines most competitors, making it a great investment for a fire-safe document storage solution. 🔗Colorful 26-Pocket Accordion File Organizer with A-Z Labelshttps://preview.redd.it/pnsphlcxpg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e0c06bc62ec8a876ba9afb0efd39312f7b758583 I recently started using the ABC Life 26 Pockets Accordian File Organizer KeepeExpanding Filling Box Letter A4 Size/Expandable File FoldePlastic Accordion Document Paper in my office. It's been a game-changer for keeping all my documents organized and easily accessible. The standout features for me were the 26 individual pockets, which provide enough space for filing various items like receipts, bills, invoices, and name cards. The unique A-Z insert label design makes it super easy to customize and locate files as needed. Another great aspect is the high capacity of the product. It can hold up to 3500 sheets, making it ideal for both A4 and letter size files. Compared to other folders, I found the ABC Life accordion file organizer to be more suitable for letter size files due to its height. Made of premium environmentally friendly PP material, this file organizer is waterproof and flexible, making it perfect for preserving your documents in good condition. Plus, it adds a touch of artistry to your workstation with its beautiful appearance. Overall, the multi-functional nature of the ABC Life accordion file organizer has made my work life more organized and convenient. Whether you're using it at home, the office, school, or during travel, it's the perfect addition to keep your documents in order. 🔗Expandable A4 Accordion File Folder with 12 Embossed Pockets and 1/5 Tab Cuthttps://preview.redd.it/dni4d2txpg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=55488f649a579ede8032e0575a507de1f583ed41 I've been using these Expanding File Folders to organize all my important documents and papers, and they've been a game-changer in keeping everything neat and secure. The elastic cord closure feels sturdy, and the expandable pockets with tabs make it easy to categorize files. One of the best features is its durability; the high-quality PP material is both strong and flexible, and it's even waterproof! It's perfect for organizing various documents like utility bills, invoices, letters, and A4 paper. The expandable pockets hold up to 300-500 sheets of A4 and letter size paper, which is incredibly convenient for both personal and professional use. The only downside I've encountered is the product's slightly damaged finish upon arrival. However, the seller's good service made up for it, and I'm still thankful for the high-quality folders. Overall, I highly recommend these file organizers for anyone looking to keep their paperwork in check! 🔗Versatile SKYDUE Expanding File Folder with 5 Individual Pocketshttps://preview.redd.it/0hwd5q2ypg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=091a50558ccfa8faf6d5994158f0f7b9ec69c2b1 The Skydue Expanding File Folder with 8 Labels was like a breath of fresh air. Imagine being able to stay organized without having to sacrifice style! This file folder is made of high quality, nontoxic and nonradioactive material, which made me feel good knowing that it was safe and reliable. I appreciated how it was so lightweight but still sturdy enough to protect my important documents. The floral and waterproof feature definitely caught my eye. One thing that really stood out was the expandable folder's ability to hold up to 150-200 pages. It made it the perfect size for all my work and school needs. I loved that I could fit A4 size paper and letter size paper in there with ease. The button closure provided added security too, ensuring that my files weren't accidentally falling out of the folder. Being able to carry around a Skydue file folder without it being too bulky was an added bonus. And it being suitable for different types of use, from school to office to home, only made it all the more appealing. The wide selection of Skydue file folders available truly was an added bonus, allowing me to choose the one that best fit my personal style. Overall, I had a great experience with the Skydue Expanding File Folder with 8 Labels. It was the perfect way to keep organized and stay stylish. 🔗Professional Expanding File Folder Notepad Portfolio Casehttps://preview.redd.it/cxaaytnypg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8c93e874c60649bb2b28c805ea9f43cb9c6433ac I've been using the iCarryAll Notepad Portfolio in my daily life and it's been a game-changer for me. The premium quality synthetic leather and polypropylene (PP) make it look and feel sturdy, while being lightweight and super easy to carry around. The expanding file folder is perfect for keeping all my important papers and documents in order, with six expandable pockets accommodating A4 and letter-size papers. One feature I particularly love is the spring clip, which securely holds my notepad or papers, ensuring a solid writing surface wherever I go. I can easily access the metal pen holder alongside the spring clip when I need it. The product's dimensions are just right, fitting comfortably in my bag and not taking up too much space. However, I found one minor drawback: the color of the expanded folder is random. But considering all the great features and the overall user-friendly design, this is a small price to pay for this fantastic organizer. The iCarryAll Notepad Portfolio has become essential for me to stay on top of everything and I highly recommend it for anyone looking to stay organized, whether at home, school, or work. 🔗Elegant Expanding File Folder for Organized Storagehttps://preview.redd.it/i97j345zpg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f2a941c1fb9827a96e5e081dfe3ebf1bb32593e9 I've been using this expanding file folder for a while now, and I must say, it's been a game-changer for keeping my paperwork organized. It's designed to hold standard-sized 8.5" x 11" documents, making it perfect for both home and office use. One of the standout features is the gold accent hardware, which adds a touch of elegance to any filing setup. The file folder itself is spacious and flexible, allowing me to store plenty of documents without sacrificing style. However, there are a couple of downsides to this product. Some users have reported issues with the handle breaking after a short period of use. Additionally, while it's great for organizing paperwork, it might not be the best option for labeling the file tabs, as some users found it difficult. Overall, this expanding file folder from U-Brands is a solid choice for anyone looking to keep their documents tidy and organized. With its stylish gold accents, flexibility, and spacious design, it's a great investment for both home and office use. 🔗Stylish File Folder Organizer with Removable Dividershttps://preview.redd.it/hs8m4kwzpg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ba8879e39c817ec78f75fd13abca3fbf944355d0 I recently ordered a Chic File Organizer Tote in blue, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations. The faux leather finish and bold color make this file organizer not only sturdy but also an attractive addition to my office. The 14"W x 9"D x 10-1/2"H size of the organizer is perfect for holding my files securely. One of the features I appreciate the most is the removable dividers, which definitely improve organization and efficiency. The interior fit is impressive, and the cutouts keep the dividers in place, allowing me to hang my files easily. I was initially concerned that the organizer might not support the weight, but it has proven me wrong. However, there are a few minor cons that I noticed. First, the exterior fabric is a bit rough, which might cause some discomfort over time if the organizer is handled frequently. Second, the support system for hanging files could use some improvement, as I have observed some durability issues with metal rods bending over time. All in all, this Chic File Organizer Tote is a worthy investment for anyone looking for a combination of style, functionality, and organization. With its spacious design and attractive appearance, it stands out among file organizers. Just make sure to handle the exterior fabric with care and consider using a stronger support system for hanging files. 🔗Stylish and Durable 30-Slot Classroom File Organizerhttps://preview.redd.it/px62lt10qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=27415f0847f480b1a0e726465bbb30873b11cefa I've been using the AdirOffice 30-Slot Purple Classroom File Literature Organizer for a while now, and I must say, it's been a game-changer for keeping my papers and supplies organized. The first thing that caught my eye was how sturdy this organizer is - it definitely doesn't feel like it's made of cardboard. The construction is top-notch, with each slot designed to hold your materials securely without bending or breaking. What I really love about this organizer is how easy it is to label each slot. The small label tabs are a clever feature that allows you to keep everything organized without any hassle. Plus, the bold purple color not only looks great but also won't fade over time, which is a bonus. However, there are a couple of downsides to this organizer. The first is that it's quite heavy to lift, especially when you need to move it around. The weight can be a bit of a hassle, but it's a minor drawback compared to the benefits. Another issue I faced was that the material isn't entirely waterproof. If you spill something on it or it gets wet, it can be a bit of a mess. It's not something that happens often, but it's worth mentioning. Overall, I'm really happy with the AdirOffice 30-Slot Purple Classroom File Literature Organizer. It's a great addition to any workspace and does a fantastic job of keeping everything neat and tidy. Despite the minor issues, I would definitely recommend this organizer to anyone looking for a sturdy and stylish way to keep their papers and supplies in check. 🔗Stackable Mesh File Organizer with Wheelshttps://preview.redd.it/ijenoj11qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4272da62e397a8d3dcf84df8561e8a84ef65deaf I recently came across the Simplehouseware Stackable Mesh Hanging File Organizer with Wheels in black. As someone who frequently deals with stacks of papers and needs to keep them organized, this product caught my eye. First and foremost, the sturdy steel mesh construction with a black finish really stood out to me. It exudes a sense of professionalism that I found appealing. The mesh desktop organizer was also designed to hold letter size hanging files with easy carry handles, which proved to be very efficient. However, I did notice a slight drawback—the rolling dolly, which comes with 4 heavy duty 1-inch casters (2 lockable wheels), seemed to be on the smaller side. While it didn't hinder the overall functionality of the organizer, I would have appreciated a slightly larger size. Despite the minor inconvenience, the stackable design has been a game-changer for me. By connecting two units vertically, I've managed to create more space while still saving space, which is perfect for my small office. With its extra large size of 15.3 inches by 12.5 inches by 11.5 inches, the Simplehouseware Stackable Mesh Hanging File Organizer with Wheels has been a valuable addition to my daily life. It's a well-designed product with a few minor shortcomings, but overall, it's a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to better organize their documents and files. 🔗Durable Metal Wall Double File Holderhttps://preview.redd.it/jdb60ua1qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bd8ac6b991a6c29c0faf4ad5e28fb923a0e6c484 I recently found myself drowning in paper clutter on my desk, so I decided to give the DesignStyles Black Metal Wall Double File Holder a try. This little gem has been a life-saver, providing a clean and organized space for all my important documents. It's easy to mount on the wall, thanks to the included hardware, which eliminates the need for any drilling. In fact, installation was a breeze and it was up on the wall within a matter of minutes. One of the first things I noticed about this file holder is its durable metal construction. It's sturdy enough to stand up to the daily wear and tear of handling papers, yet it doesn't feel overly heavy or cumbersome to use. The 2 spacious slots for letters are perfect for organizing bills, statements, and other correspondence, clearing up precious desk space in the process. I love that I can easily see which documents are in which slot, thanks to its clean design. The DesignStyles Black Metal Wall Double File Holder has proven to be a functional and stylish addition to my workspace. Its modern aesthetic adds a touch of sophistication, while its practical features make it a breeze to use. Despite a few minor issues, such as slightly gapped wires that can allow papers to fall to the side, I couldn't be happier with this purchase. It's well worth the investment if you're looking to declutter your desktop and keep your papers easily accessible. 🔗Professional File Folder Organizer with Incline Designhttps://preview.redd.it/tgldrwq1qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4545bb35bb55166e8eef5b51ecba0bc57fa5bfc5 The Kantek Incline Sorter has been a game-changer for me in keeping my office organized and clutter-free. With its sleek, open-wire design, it seamlessly fits any decor and is a perfect addition to any workspace. The incline design allows for easy access to files, regardless of their size, and the sturdy construction ensures that they won't topple over. Although it doesn't have the most modern aesthetic, its timeless design adds a touch of professionalism to my space. But, the one downside I've experienced is that it requires screwing it to the desk to prevent it from moving accidentally. Overall, the Kantek Incline Sorter is a reliable and efficient way to keep my files in order and save space. 🔗Easy-Install Hanging File Folder Holder for Streamlined Organizinghttps://preview.redd.it/dda9oq62qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=43a6d5c1e8b763b571dfae95e4a1bf2944665d12 I recently started using the Stealtho Desk or Wall Files Organizer in my office and it's become an essential part of my daily routine. The organizer's unique construction really stood out to me - it's sturdy, but I was amazed that I could assemble it without any tools or screws! One thing that has made a huge difference in my life is the versatility of this organizer. I can install it in three different positions - table, wall, or partition, and it perfectly fits into any environment. The wall mounting option is a great feature as it helps me utilize my vertical space effectively. Another positive aspect is the ease of installation. The instructions are simple and straightforward, and I managed to set it up in no time. The organizer also comes with two mounting screws and anchors if you prefer to hang it on the wall. However, I did realize that the organizer may not be ideal for all spaces. If your workspace doesn't have much vertical space or you prefer a smaller organizer, this might not be suitable for you. Overall, I'm very pleased with the Stealtho Files Organizer. It's sturdy, looks good, and offers a practical solution to keep my desk clutter-free. 🔗Efficient Classroom or Office File Organizerhttps://preview.redd.it/w5zb81l2qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fdec96e9d34553f2f847d89520a2b79e636e98af Keeping my classroom and office tidy has never been easier with the AdirOffice Cardboard Literature File Organizer. The organizer, featuring 15 compartments, comes in a compact size while still accommodating plenty of files and paperwork. I love how the sturdy construction allows me to slide files, notebooks and more easily into each slot, making my workspace much more organized. The recycled corrugated cardboard material not only looks visually appealing but also adds a touch of eco-friendliness to my office. The slot tabs make it easy to identify the contents of each compartment. Overall, this organization hero is a fantastic addition to any space in need of a little decluttering. 🔗Elegant 30-Pocket Hanging File Organizer for Office and Classroomhttps://preview.redd.it/qh14rd63qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e8499e534b7d4b0ddd765478e63d3169d928b32c As a busy professional, I had been searching for a stylish yet functional hanging file organizer to keep my important documents neatly organized. After trying the Essex Wares 30 Pocket Chart File Folder Organizer, I realized that my search had finally come to an end. What stood out to me from the very beginning was the sleek black fabric, which I found to be both modern and versatile, suitably enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any room. The construction of the organizer was incredibly user-friendly, with 30 individual pockets that easily accommodated letter-sized file folders, making organization a breeze. One of the key highlights that appealed to me was the inclusion of five hanging hooks, offering practical solutions for easy mounting on a door or blackboard. This was especially beneficial for someone like me who often finds herself on the go, needing quick access to important documents. However, the main drawback I experienced was the size of the pockets. Although they seemed spacious enough, I found that the depth of the pockets was not sufficient, causing me to struggle slightly when trying to find certain files. Despite this minor flaw, my overall experience with the Essex Wares 30 Pocket Chart File Folder Organizer has been extremely positive. Not only does it help keep my office or classroom neat and organized, but it also adds a touch of modernity to the room. I wholeheartedly recommend this hanging file organizer for anyone looking to efficiently manage their files and enhance their workspace's appearance. Buyer's GuideWhen buying file folder organizers, there are a few important factors to consider. These will help ensure you find the right product for your needs and that it is compatible with your existing storage system or setup.Size and Capacityhttps://preview.redd.it/tjuz82v5qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=72b12367b7afa2833ec67f5da71933d1c51d8d4d The size and capacity of a file folder organizer are crucial to consider before purchasing. Make sure the organizer can accommodate the number of files you need to store, as well as the space available in your office or workspace. MaterialFile folder organizers can be made from various materials, such as plastic, metal, or wood. Consider the weight, durability, and aesthetic of the material when choosing an organizer that fits your preferences.Configuration and LayoutDifferent file folder organizers come in various configurations and layouts. Consider the type of files you will be storing and the frequency of access when selecting a configuration that best suits your needs. Some common configurations include vertical, horizontal, or stacked designs. https://preview.redd.it/16cz5ga6qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ba4c1300f35c7cb41badb5e9162b1d2a4bc07e99 Additional FeaturesSome file folder organizers come with additional features that may enhance your storage experience. These may include built-in labels, locking mechanisms, or dividers to separate different types of files. Consider whether these additional features are necessary or useful for your particular needs.Ease of UseA file folder organizer should be easy to use, with a user-friendly design that allows you to access and store files quickly and efficiently. Consider the ease of opening and closing the organizer, as well as the ease of placing and removing files without causing damage or disorganization.FAQhttps://preview.redd.it/v8qziqk6qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e0b371e3f73d7d8ec1ca9d9979fe3e5ef08c95ba What are file folder organizers?File folder organizers are tools designed to help keep files and folders in an orderly manner. They are commonly used in offices and homes to keep important documents, paperwork, and files organized, easily accessible, and visible.What are the benefits of using file folder organizers?
https://preview.redd.it/wapqwmx6qg5d1.jpg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=8ecd916b55452a7e587260fdeadd9d6c9634836a What materials are file folder organizers made of?File folder organizers are typically made from materials like plastic, metal, or wood, which provide durability and stability. Some organizers are also available in fabric or leather, offering a more elegant and stylish look.What sizes are file folder organizers available in?File folder organizers come in various sizes, ranging from small, compact units for desktop or shelf usage to larger, freestanding units suitable for filing rooms or offices. It is essential to choose the right size based on the available space and the number of files to be stored.How easily can files be accessed in file folder organizers?File folder organizers usually have multiple compartments or pockets for easy access to files. Some designs also feature adjustable dividers, allowing users to customize their storage based on the number of files they have.Can file folder organizers be color-coordinated?Yes, some file folder organizers are available in multiple colors or with the option for users to customize the color scheme. Color-coding can help with organization by making it easier to differentiate between different categories of files (e. g. , project files, client files, invoices, etc. ).Are file folder organizers suitable for home use?Absolutely, file folder organizers are not only useful in offices but can also be beneficial for organizing files in homes, particularly for those who work from home or for organizing important paperwork. They can be used in various spaces, such as the kitchen, living room, or home office.As an Amazon™ Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. |